How to Use the Duty-Free vs City vs Online Price Calculator
When shopping for cosmetics, perfume, or liquor while traveling, it is often unclear where you will actually get the best deal. Airport duty-free is convenient but not always the cheapest, and local city outlets or online duty-free shops can beat it. This calculator takes the price at each of the three places and instantly shows you the lowest-price option along with your savings amount and savings rate versus the most expensive option.
Even for the same brand and size, prices can differ by 20% or more depending on each country’s duty-free policies and ongoing promotions. Online duty-free retailers frequently offer pre-departure discount coupons, so checking prices in advance and running them through this calculator can lead to a much smarter purchase than buying on impulse at the gate.
If you plan to buy several items, run this calculator for each one to map out the best place to buy every item. Be sure to also check your duty-free allowance and customs limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Depending on the brand and item, online duty-free or local city outlets can be cheaper. It is worth checking all three prices before you buy.
No, it simply compares the prices you enter. If prices are listed in different currencies, convert them to the same currency first for an accurate comparison.