Country Allowances
Duty-free limits vary dramatically:
- Australia: Only 25 cigarettes allowed - strict enforcement with heavy fines
- China: 400 cigarettes standard, but only 200 from Hong Kong
- Japan: 200 cigarettes (must be 20+ to import)
- EU/UK: Typically 200-400 cigarettes between member states
The Duty-Free Reality
Don't assume duty-free means cheap. Airport shops still mark up prices to cover their high operating costs. The real savings come on:
- High-tax items like premium liquor
- Price-controlled cosmetics
- Local specialties not available at home
Cigarette Considerations
From personal experience across Asian and European airports:
- Selection: Duty-free shops often carry unique regional blends
- Pricing: Typically 20-30% cheaper than domestic retail
- Packaging: Look for "export only" versions with different designs
Smart Shopping Tips
- Always check your home country's limits before buying
- Keep receipts handy for customs inspection
- Consider splitting purchases among travel companions
- Watch for special duty-free bundles or gift sets