Close ILTakeCare Suggestion
IL TakeCare app – For all your insurance & wellness needs

Policy purchase, claims, renewal & more

 

Guide to Duty-Free Shopping at Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong International Airport offers a variety of tax-free shopping options, including luxury goods, cosmetics, and electronics. This guide covers store locations, payment methods, and duty-free allowances to help travelers make the most of their shopping experience.

  • 30 Apr 2025
  • 6 min read
  • 0 views

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), one of the most well-equipped airports in the world, is known for its efficiency and world-class amenities. This busy airport is a major hub for many international carriers, and offers a variety of tax-free goods, including luxury brands, electronics, perfumes, cosmetics, and local souvenirs. The duty-free stores at the airport are conveniently located with various payment options and pre-order services to make your shopping experience hassle-free.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Hong Kong Airport shopping duty free.

Hong Kong Airport duty-free website

The official Hong Kong Airport duty free website allows travellers to browse and purchase products before their flight. It provides details about available brands, promotions, and special discounts.

What can you do on the Hong Kong duty-free website?

  • Browse Products: View categories like beauty, alcohol, tobacco, fashion, electronics, and food.
  • Check promotions: Find the latest discounts and exclusive airport deals.
  • Pre-order items: You can buy products online and pick them up at the airport or opt for home delivery.
  • Membership rewards: Sign up for loyalty programs to get extra benefits.
  • Store locations & timings: Find the exact location of duty-free shops at the airport.

Which terminals have duty-free shops at Hong Kong Airport?

Hong Kong International Airport has two main terminals where you can find duty-free shops— Terminal 1 and 2. Most international travellers use Terminal 1, which has the most extensive shopping options.

What are the different duty-free stores available at Hong Kong International Airport?

Hong Kong Airport has a variety of duty-free stores, including:

  • Beauty & skincare
  • Fashion & accessories
  • Electronics & gadgets
  • Watches & jewellery
  • Alcohol & tobacco
  • Food & snacks

List of duty-free items you can buy at Hong Kong International Airport

Here are the most popular Hong Kong Airport duty free shop items you can purchase at the airport:

  • Perfumes & cosmetics
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tobacco products
  • Electronics
  • Luxury goods
  • Food & snacks

How to pre-order duty-free items at Hong Kong Airport?

Pre-ordering is a great way to secure your favourite duty-free items before arriving at the airport.

Steps to Pre-order:

  • Visit the official duty-free website: Browse through the products.
  • Select your items: Add items to the cart and proceed to checkout.
  • Provide flight details: Enter your departure flight number and date.
  • Make payment or reserve: Some stores allow payment at the airport, while others require advance payment.
  • Pick up your order: Collect your items at the designated pickup point before your flight.

What are the required documents for duty-free shopping online?

To shop at the Hong Kong Airport duty free shop online and pick items at the airport, you will need: 

  • A valid passport
  • Boarding pass
  • Credit/debit card

Some stores may ask for additional proof of age when purchasing alcohol or tobacco.

What modes of payment are accepted when shopping duty-free?

HK Airport duty free shops accept various payment methods, including:

  • Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, UnionPay
  • Debit cards: Accepted at most stores
  • Cash: HKD, USD, CNY, and other major currencies
  • Mobile payments: Alipay, WeChat Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay
  • Airport gift cards & vouchers: Some stores accept airport-issued vouchers

 

What are the duty-free allowance limits at Hong Kong International Airport?

Travellers should check the duty-free regulations of the country they are travelling to avoid issues upon arrival.

The general guidelines for duty-free limits on goods are:

Item

Allowance limit

Alcohol

1 litre of alcohol (above 30% ABV)

Tobacco

19 cigarettes OR 1 cigar (below 25g) OR 25g of loose tobacco

Perfumes & cosmetics

No specific limit, but it must comply with airline baggage rules

Electronics & luxury goods

No limit, but subject to customs duties in your destination country

Tips to follow when shopping duty-free

  • Compare prices: Not everything is cheaper at the airport. Check the prices to see if it is a good deal.
  • Check product authenticity: Buy from official airport stores to avoid counterfeit items.
  • Be aware of allowance limits: Follow customs regulations to prevent extra taxes.
  • Use loyalty programs: Earn rewards and discounts when shopping frequently.
  • Pre-order online: Secure your favourite items before arriving at the airport.
  • Keep your receipts: Needed for warranty claims and refunds.
  • Plan your time: Allow enough time before your flight for duty-free shopping.

FAQs about duty-free shopping at Hong Kong International Airport

  1. Can I shop duty-free when arriving in Hong Kong?

Duty-free shopping is only available for departing and transit passengers.

  1. Is there a limit on how much I can spend?

There is no spending limit, but customs regulations may apply in your destination country.

  1. Can I return or exchange duty-free items?

Policies vary by store, so check before purchasing. Some stores allow exchanges if you keep the receipt.

  1. Is duty-free shopping cheaper than city stores?

It depends on the item. Luxury goods and alcohol are usually cheaper at the airport.

Conclusion

Duty-free shopping at Hong Kong International Airport is a great way to enjoy tax-free savings on premium brands and essential travel goods. With a wide selection of stores, easy pre-order services, and flexible payment options, shopping at the airport is convenient and rewarding. By following the allowance limits and duty-free regulations, you can maximise your shopping experience without hassle.

Before you travel, it's important to take measures to ensure your journey is smooth and free from hassle. It is essential to invest in travel insurance that acts as a safety net against unexpected situations and provides financial aid in case of flight delays, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. Consider opting for single trip travel insurance if you want coverage for this specific trip and check if you can customise the policy as per your requirement.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.  

Also read:

  • Looking for tailored advice?

    Schedule a call with our insurance advisors

  • OR
  • Call us:

    1800 2666
Please enter valid name
Please enter a valid mobile number
Please select the Category

Subscribe to our newsletter

Understand insurance better by reading our helpful guides, articles, blogs and other information.

Please enter valid name
Please enter valid Email

Error message here