With airport security as strict as it is, passengers must arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Which also means: plenty of time to kill. And what better way to waste away hours than with airport luxury shopping?
People often think about shopping once they get to their destinations. But what they don’t consider is the luxury shopping that awaits them in the terminal. Airport luxury shopping used to be a side-line project, one that was just there to pass the time. However, it’s now grown into a highly profitable part of the luxury retail business.
We already know that retail therapy has many benefits – especially to calm nerves pre-flight or when you’re stuck during an extra-long layover. But do you think that the benefits of retail therapy increase the more luxurious items that you buy? Well, we’re about to find out. Here is the creme de la creme of airport luxury shopping.
Airport Luxury Shopping: The best luxury shopping in airports around the world
Heathrow Airport
At Heathrow Airport you can find chunky lace Dolce & Gabbana skirts, crocodile skin accessories from Gucci, tweed suits at Chanel and much more. You’d think you were galavanting down Savile Row. But, alas, you’re not. All these luxury shops can be found in Heathrow’s Terminal 5. The airport also boasts high-end shops from Prada, Alexander McQueen and of course, Burberry. Because it wouldn’t be London without Burberry plaid, right?
And for those who aren’t crazy about the top-of-the-line designers, there’s even a Harry Potter shop for all of your magical necessities.
Vancouver International Airport
Travelers wanting a taste of luxury at Vancouver Airport, won’t leave empty-handed – especially with deals like these ones. Vancouver Airport is home to the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet where passengers can shop designers like Coach, Armani and Michael Kors up to 70% off. The airport is also home to another 170+ shops and restaurants too.
The international terminal is where you can find all the ultra-luxurious shops like Bottega Veneta, Cartier, Hermès and more.
Changi Airport Singapore
Changi Airport is a travel destination in its own right. The airport features a free cinema, multiple airport gardens, and a rooftop swimming pool. And to add to all that, luxury airport shopping too. There are over 350 shops at Changi Airport with more set to open in a new complex in 2018. You can literally shop from the moment you arrive at the airport all the way through to baggage claim and beyond.
And the best part? For every $10 you spend shopping you can redeem at Terminal 3 Level 1 Information Counter for a free ride on their airport slide. The slide stands at 12m high, making it the tallest slide in an airport in the world. Talk about a rush.
Charles de Gaulle Airport
When you think of Paris, you automatically think of luxury shopping. Just look at the Avenue des Champs-Élysées! It’s world-renowned for its fabulous shopping. But step inside the terminals at Charles de Gaulle Airport and you’ll find more of the same sought-after shops as out on the streets. Fashion-hungry travelers can find the likes of Longchamp, Chanel, and Hermes in the airport’s many terminals.
It may not be the most visually appealing airport, but the shops it houses certainly are. Fendi, Dior, Gucci. Need we say more?
John F. Kennedy Airport
If you’ve ever been to JFK Airport, you know it’s massive. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of traveling through this airport. But, fear not. If you get lost, there are plenty of shops to keep you entertained along the way. Throughout the airport’s 8 terminals you can find shops like Salvatore Ferragamo, Coach, Hugo Boss and many, many more. This airport gives Fifth Avenue a run for its money.
So, next time you’re on vacation skip the shopping and wait until you get to the airport. Trust us, it’ll calm your nerves, help you de-stress before the flight and ensure that you leave a little more stylish than when you arrived.
