Don’t Get Caught Out: 23 Items Not to Buy at the Airport

Airports are convenient, but they can be expensive. Many travelers spend extra money on things they could buy cheaper somewhere else.

To save money and time on your next trip, it’s good to know what not to buy at the airport. This guide will show you 23 things to avoid buying there, so you can keep more of your money.

Before we look at the list, remember that planning ahead helps a lot. Packing well and thinking ahead can save you trouble and money during your trip.

Remember, airport shops know you’re in a rush and might pay more for things you need quickly. Try not to fall for this.

Now, let’s get into our list of airport shopping no-nos and learn how to keep more money in your pocket for your actual vacation.

Chargers and Adapters

We’ve all had this problem: you’re about to get on your plane and you remember you left your phone charger at home. It might seem like a good idea to buy one at the airport store, but wait! Chargers and adapters at airports are usually much more expensive than they should be.

These little things can use up a lot of your travel money if you’re not careful. Before you leave home, make a list of what you need to pack. This can help you avoid forgetting important things.

If you do forget, think about waiting until you get to where you’re going to buy a new one. You will probably find better prices outside the airport.

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Fast Food and Snacks

Airport hunger is real, but paying $5 for a candy bar isn’t the answer. Airport convenience stores and fast food chains know they have a captive audience, so they often inflate their prices.

A simple sandwich or bag of chips can cost twice as much as it would outside the airport. Instead of falling for these overpriced snacks, plan ahead.

Pack some granola bars, trail mix, or other non-perishable snacks in your carry-on. If you’re really hungry, try to grab a meal before you head to the airport.

Headphones and Earbuds

Picture this: You’re about to board a long flight, and you realize you left your headphones at home. The airport shop’s $50 earbuds suddenly look very appealing. 

But don’t give in! Airport prices for headphones and earbuds are often sky-high. You’ll almost always find better deals on these items outside the airport. 

If you absolutely need headphones for your flight, consider buying an inexpensive pair to tide you over, then invest in a better set once you reach your destination. Your wallet will thank you, and you’ll end up with a higher-quality product in the long run.

Sit-Down Restaurants

Eating a good meal before your flight sounds nice, but airport restaurants usually serve average food for high prices. They know travelers have extra time and not many choices, so they charge a lot.

The food is often not worth the money, and you might have to rush to finish eating before your flight. If you can, eat before you get to the airport or wait until you arrive at your destination.

If you need to eat at the airport, try places where you can quickly pick up food. These are usually cheaper than restaurants where you sit down.

First-Class Lounge Access

Those comfy chairs, free snacks, and quiet atmosphere look tempting, right? Many airports offer day passes to their first-class lounges, but these can be quite pricey.

While it might seem like a luxurious way to start your trip, the cost often outweighs the benefits, especially for short layovers. If you travel frequently, look into credit cards or loyalty programs that offer lounge access as a perk.

These options provide much better value in the long run. For occasional travelers, find a quiet corner in the terminal and use the money you save for something special at your destination.

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WiFi

Paying for airport WiFi is outdated and unnecessary in most cases. Many airports now offer free WiFi, so always check before you pull out your credit card. 

If free WiFi isn’t available, you have other options. Use your phone as a hotspot if your data plan allows it, or download some offline entertainment before your trip. 

You can also use this opportunity to disconnect and relax with a book or magazine. There’s no need to shell out cash for spotty internet access when you have so many alternatives at your fingertips.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Duty-free shops make alcohol and tobacco look like good deals, but they might not be. These shops say they don’t charge taxes, but the basic prices can be higher than what you pay at a regular store.

This is especially true for well-known brands that you can easily buy at home. If you want to save money, check prices at local stores before you travel. Compare them to what duty-free shops offer.

Don’t forget to think about taxes and customs rules too. Often, it’s still better to buy these items outside the airport.

Bottled Water

Paying $4 or more for a bottle of water should make anyone think twice. Airports know that you can’t bring liquids through security, so they charge premium prices for this basic necessity. 

Don’t fall for this expensive trick. Instead, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you. Most airports now have water fountains or filling stations past security where you can fill up for free. 

This approach not only saves you money but also helps reduce plastic waste. If you forget your reusable bottle, buy the smallest size available to get through your flight, then refill it later.

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Perfumes and Cosmetics

Those gleaming displays of perfumes and cosmetics in duty-free shops look enticing, but don’t be fooled. While these items are tax-free, the base prices are often higher than what you’d pay at a regular department store or beauty retailer. 

Airports market these as luxury items, taking advantage of travelers’ impulse to treat themselves. Instead of splurging at the airport, wait for sales at your favorite beauty stores. 

You’ll find better deals and have a wider selection to choose from. If you really want to buy perfume or cosmetics during your trip, research prices beforehand so you can spot a genuine bargain.

Neck Pillows and Blankets

Comfort is important on long flights, but neck pillows and blankets bought at the airport are often not good. They are expensive and not very good quality.

You might get a pillow that loses its shape fast or a blanket that doesn’t keep you warm. It’s better to bring your own cozy things before you travel.

Take a soft scarf that can be used as a blanket or a small inflatable neck pillow that doesn’t take up much space in your bag. This way, you’ll be comfortable on the flight and save money for your vacation.

Eye Masks and Earplugs

Sleeping on a noisy, bright plane can be tough. Airport stores know this and often charge a lot for simple things like eye masks and earplugs. Don’t wait until you’re at the gate to think about being comfortable on your flight.

Buy these things before you leave and put them in your carry-on bag. You can find better prices and more choices at your local pharmacy or online stores.

You can also try them at home to make sure they work well for you. A good night’s sleep on your flight is very valuable, but you shouldn’t have to pay too much for it.

Souvenirs

We all want to remember our trips. But airport souvenir shops are not the best place to buy things. They sell items that are too expensive and don’t really show what the place is like.

You can find t-shirts, keychains, and mugs that cost a lot because people often buy them at the last minute. It’s better to buy souvenirs while you’re on your trip.

Look for local markets or shops where you’re staying. They have special items that really show the heart of your travels. You’ll save money and bring home things that mean more to you.

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Magazines and Books

Airport newsstands know you’re looking for in-flight entertainment, and they price their reading material accordingly. That glossy magazine or bestselling novel might seem tempting, but you’ll pay a premium for it. 

Plan ahead for your reading needs. Download e-books to your tablet or phone before your trip. If you prefer physical books, pack one or two in your carry-on. 

Many airports now also offer free book exchanges or mini-libraries where you can pick up a book for your flight and return it when you’re done. These options keep you entertained without the hefty price tag.

SIM Cards

Staying connected during your travels is important, but airport SIM cards are rarely a good deal. These often come with limited data and high prices, taking advantage of travelers who didn’t plan ahead. 

Instead, research your options before you leave home. Many cell phone providers offer international plans you can add to your existing service. 

Another great option is to buy an eSIM card online before your trip. These digital SIM cards can be activated as soon as you land, giving you data at local rates without the airport markup.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange booths might seem handy, but they usually have bad rates and high fees. This means you’ll get less foreign money for what you pay. It’s better to plan your currency needs in advance.

Ask your bank about using ATMs abroad and any costs involved. Often, withdrawing cash at an ATM in your destination gives you a better deal. If you need to exchange money before traveling, do it at your local bank.

Banks often provide better rates than airport booths. Preparing ahead can help you save a lot of money during your trip.

Parking

Airport parking lots can quickly drain your travel budget. The convenience of parking right at the terminal comes with a high price tag. Look for alternatives before your trip. Many off-site parking lots offer shuttle services to the airport at a fraction of the cost. 

You might also consider using a ride-share service or public transportation to get to the airport. If you must park at the airport, book your spot online in advance. 

Many airports offer discounts for pre-booking. Your wallet will thank you when you return your trip and don’t face a huge parking bill.

Travel Insurance

Buying travel insurance at the airport is like grocery shopping when you’re hungry, you’ll end up spending way more than you need to. Airport kiosks often offer overpriced policies with limited coverage. 

Start thinking about travel insurance when you book your trip. Shop around online to compare policies and prices. Many credit cards also offer travel insurance if you use them to book your trip. 

Read the fine print and make sure you’re getting the coverage you need at a fair price. Protecting your trip is important, but you don’t need to overpay for peace of mind.

Rental Cars

Renting a car directly at the airport might seem easy, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Airport rental locations typically charge more due to added fees and taxes. 

You can save money booking your rental car online in advance. Look for off-airport locations too, they often offer better rates and might provide a shuttle service to pick you up. 

If you must rent at the airport, compare prices online first and see if the rental company will match their own lower online rates. A little extra effort can lead to significant savings on your transportation.

ATM Fees

Airport ATMs often charge very high fees, especially for people traveling to other countries. These fees can add up fast and take money from your travel budget. Plan how much cash you need before you leave.

Take out money at your local bank or a free ATM before going to the airport. If you’re traveling abroad, use cards that don’t charge extra for foreign transactions. Some banks will pay back ATM fees anywhere in the world.

If you have to use an airport ATM, take out a big amount to reduce the effect of the fees. Managing your cash wisely can save you a lot during your trip.

Tourist Maps and Brochures

In the age of smartphones, paying for a paper map at the airport doesn’t make sense. These overpriced guides often contain outdated information and cover only the most touristy areas. 

Use your phone to download offline maps of your destination before you leave home. Many cities also offer free maps at tourist information centers or hotels. 

If you prefer a physical map, wait until you reach your destination to pick one up. You’ll find better, more detailed maps for lower prices once you’re in the city you’re exploring.

Specialty Health Products

Headache? Motion sickness? The airport pharmacy knows you’re in a pinch and prices their products accordingly. Don’t wait until you’re at the airport to think about potential health needs during your trip. 

Pack a small travel medical kit with common items like pain relievers, antacids, and motion sickness medication. If you take prescription medications, make sure you have enough for your entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays.

Planning ahead for your health needs not only saves you money but also ensures you have familiar, trusted products on hand when you need them.

Tablets and Laptops

Airport electronics shops often markup tablets and laptops significantly. You might feel tempted to grab that shiny new iPad while waiting for your flight, but resist the urge! 

These items usually cost much more at the airport than they would at a regular store or online. Plus, if you buy electronics at the airport, you might miss out on better warranty options and return policies available elsewhere. 

Save yourself some cash and purchase these gadgets before your trip or wait until you reach your destination.

Last-Minute Flights

Booking a flight at the airport is often very expensive. Airlines charge a lot because they know people are in a hurry. 

It’s better to book your flights online ahead of time. If you need to make changes at the last minute, call the airline instead of going to the airport. 

For very last-minute trips, use apps or websites to find good deals. Even booking one day in advance online can save you money compared to airport prices.

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Smart Travel, Happy Wallet

Smart airport shopping is easy: plan before you go. Most things at airports cost more than they do elsewhere. Make a list of what you need for your trip and get it before you leave.

The money you save by not buying expensive things at the airport can make your trip more fun. Keep this list with you when you travel, and you’ll see your savings grow.

By following these tips, you’ll move quickly through the airport and keep more money for the best parts of your trip.

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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.