I’m going to go ahead and say it: I’m an airport shopper. I’ll even admit that half the items in my makeup bag have been purchased at an airport somewhere in the world. I recently had the chance to take a deeper look at shopping at Dulles International Airport and must say I am impressed. I am so used to flying United at Concourse C that I did not notice there was an epic shopping experience in Concourses A and B.
Shopping at Dulles International Airport? Here are a few of my recommended stops…
Stop 1: Estée Lauder
I love all things Estée Lauder. I even wrote two research projects about the brand in grad school! Their brand portfolio carries all of my favorites: MAC, La Mer, Jo Malone, Clinique, and Estee Lauder. If you’re going on a 14-hour flight to Tokyo, I highly recommend the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair and Origins Drink Up Mask. You may feel groggy but you’ll look like you just stepped out a facial.
Headed to Miami? The lovely ladies at the MAC Counter will even apply lashes for you and get you ready for your night out. One of my favorite perfume brands is Jo Malone. Their Red Roses scent is everything! If their counter is not busy, they will even indulge you in a mini hand massage.
Stop 2: Kiehl’s & L’Occitane
Not enough time to shop for gifts? Make a pitstop at Kiehl’s. Kiehl’s at in Concourse B at Dulles Airport offers all the items you see at their stores in town. Their staff is super friendly and they have pre-made gift sets, perfect to grab on the go. Did you forget to pack toiletries? They also have TSA friendly sample sizes.
If you love L’Occitane, you’ll be all over the shop at Dulles AirportInternational. The wall is lined with their famous hand creams. Given that they are travel sized, you can’t buy just one!
Stop 3: Burberry
Believe it or not, you can find great designer deals at airports. I once bought a gorgeous pair of Ferragamo flats at Atlanta Airport for 75% off! Shopping at Dulles International Airport is no different. Head to the back of the Burberry shop at Dulles Airport and you’ll find amazing deals on purses, scarves, and other accessories. Want to splurge? The shop has the iconic trench coat and the latest selection of purses and accessories.
Stop 4: Travel Tech
Did you forget your charger? Did you just see a bunch of kids at your gate and need noise canceling headphones ASAP? Travel Tech is a kiosk at in Concourse B that may seem tiny but packs a large number of chargers, headphones, and other electronic accessories.
Stop 5: Coach & Michael Kors
Coach and Michael Kors are two must stops when shopping at Dulles International Airport. I love Coach’s collection of colorful passport holders and luggage tags. Make a note of that if you want to get me a gift! Looking for something for the special man in your life? Their collection of Coach briefcases are also stunning.
If you’re super busy like me, sometimes a layover at the airport gives me the time to browse through a store without the crowds. From smart watches to colorful trench coats, Michael Kors has plenty of impulse shopping options to treat yourself to!
Stop 6: Vino Volo
Do you hate checking in luggage as much as I do BUT you have a party to attend as soon as you land and don’t want to go empty-handed? Do you want to give your in-laws a bottle of Virginia wine? Are you flying domestic and want to bring wine to your destination? Vino Volo is not only a lovely wine bar (must order: burrata salad) but it also offers bottles of wine for sale. Cheers!
Stop 7: Be Relax Spa
Shopping at Dulles International Airport may make you tired so you may need a little massage… Be Relaxed Spa is a full-service spa at Concourse AB. You can treat yourself to a massage, get that mani and pedi, and even take a shower. I’ll admit… I am a sucker for those chair massages.
Stop 8: Erwin Pearl
Looking for a unique jewelry piece? Erwin Pearl has stunning pieces of jewelry at an affordable price point. Jewelry is the perfect gift to buy at an airport as it occupies little space. My favorite pieces at the store are their colorful enamel bracelets.
Shopping at Dulles International Airport: The Verdict
There are many great shopping stops at Dulles. The list can go on! One of the misconceptions of airport shopping is that it is overpriced. Prices are comparable to what you can see outside the airport. Plus you can snag a sale from time to time! Are you an airport shopper like me? What has been your favorite find? Share in the comments!
I don’t usually shop in airports but recently picked up a bargain in the January sales when I flew last week, so I could be a convert!! Although I think I’d be more open to a nice massage at the spa!
I love exploring airports but only window shop. Looks like you had fun between flights and you have some great points about not returning home empty handed. Eye-lashes applied? Perhaps in my next life!
I don’t usually buy much at the airport other than food, but I can definitely be persuaded to have a massage though! And wine on the go is always a great choice.
Your post here actually makes me want to go shopping and I am not usually a big fan. You make a good point that a loyover at the airport is a perfect time to do some shopping if you are typically a busy person. I also never though you could get deals at an airport store, but I think next time I will certainly look for it! Jewelry is the best thing to get at the airport, like you say, because it doesn’t take up space (and you can just wear it!). I love your suggestion on getting ready for a part at the MAC counter and cosmetics that will make you look great even if you’re feeling groggy after a flight! Genius!
Shopping at the airports is usually super boring but Dulles International Airport seems to be different. Glad that you enjoyed your shopping day, I am sure it made your visit more memorable.
This sounds like an incredibly luxurious shopping trip! I never shop at airports because I hate the markup that most stores have, plus I couldn’t afford (or at least justify) the cheapest thing in many of these stores. However, I can see why this would be the perfect airport for some designer-loving travelers! Now the spa… that I can always justify spending money on. Haha
I never really shop at airports, but when thinking about it, it would be fun to do! Always great to have items that remind you of your travels! Dulles looks like they have a lot of great shops—I love Kiehl’s! Relaxing in the spa would be pretty wonderful, too!
LOL, too funny. I guess it can be addicting to shop at the airport. After all, you’re in a captive environment and if you don’t have lounge access, there’s not a lot else to do. I’m not a huge shopper nor do I wear makeup or perfume so of those shops I’d probably find something fun at Travel Tech. But you can bet I’d have a glass or two of wine at Vino Volo!
I love window shopping at the airport although I may not end up buying something every time but it’s amazing to browse the collection. I do love the idea of going to Be Relax Spa though 😀
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