VAT Refund (Not Technically Duty-Free)

The most underused airport savings mechanism: VAT refunds for non-EU purchases in Europe can return 10–25% on luxury goods, electronics, and clothing. 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.