VAT Refund (Not Technically Duty-Free)

VAT refunds for non-EU purchases in Europe can return 10–25% on luxury goods, electronics, and clothing, outperforming even the best duty-free deal on this list, such as "SKIP: Electronics at Most Airports." The process (keep receipts, use Global Blue or Planet kiosks at departure) is time-consuming but genuinely valuable for purchases over $500. Japanese Consumption Tax refunds are particularly generous and the process at Japan's airports is the most efficient in the world, saving an average of 8% more than the typical EU refund process.