What Is a Duty-Free Store? How to Shop Duty-Free

For those who frequently fly or are interested in duty-free shopping while traveling, duty-free stores are a familiar concept. So what exactly is a duty-free store, and how do you purchase these items? Here is all the useful information you need.

1. What is a duty-free store at the airport?

A duty-free store (also known as a duty-free shop) is a retail establishment that sells goods (imported or domestically produced) and benefits from local tax exemption policies as stipulated by law.

At Tan Son Nhat International Airport, there is currently only one duty-free store — Sasco Duty Free — located at Gate 17, international departures terminal. Sasco Duty Free has over 20 counters, 10 product categories, and tens of thousands of products from more than 100 prestigious brands.

At Noi Bai International Airport, there are 4 duty-free stores, including Nasco Duty Free Shop, located in the international departure lounge.

2. Tips for shopping at duty-free stores

2.1. Check the regulations of each store

One of the most important things to pay attention to when shopping at duty-free stores is the conditions and regulations of each store. Each duty-free store has different shopping regulations, so you should be familiar with them to avoid unnecessary trouble.

Generally, duty-free stores require customers to present their passport and boarding pass showing the destination of their flight itinerary. This allows the store to verify that the customer is eligible to make purchases there. Each store will then have its own regulations regarding which products and how many items a customer is permitted to buy.

2.2. Ask about the tax refund procedure

When visiting a duty-free store to shop, take a few minutes to ask the staff about the tax refund procedure. This gives you peace of mind by knowing the process to receive your refund and allows you to shop comfortably.

2.3. Prefer cash payments

Cash payment is always the top preferred choice for many travelers. This payment method is more economical compared to card payments.

All products at duty-free stores are thoroughly inspected and reviewed. You can shop there with complete confidence. Some special products you can buy at duty-free stores include cosmetics, perfumes, alcohol, functional food products, health care and beauty items, and more.