What to Buy at Vietnam Duty-Free? Check the Basics! Do you want to enjoy the…
Vietnam Duty-Free Guide: What to Buy and Where to Shop

What to Buy at Vietnam Duty-Free? Check the Essentials!
Are you looking to make the most of your shopping experience during a short layover at Vietnam’s airports? Shopping at duty-free stores is a great way to save time and money. Here, we provide basic information for shopping at major airports in Vietnam.
While sightseeing during a layover can be fun, are you thinking you’d rather take it easy and relax?
If so, I recommend scheduling some rest at a transit hotel specifically for layovers.
Check out the article below for affordable transit hotels in Ho Chi Minh where you can rest.

Where is the Best Place to Shop?
The main airports include Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. Both feature extensive duty-free stores that offer a wide range of products, from fashion brands to alcoholic beverages.
Operating Hours
Many duty-free stores operate 24/7, though some specialty shops may have limited hours. The main duty-free areas at Tan Son Nhat Duty-Free (Ho Chi Minh) and Noi Bai Duty-Free (Hanoi) are open 24 hours, but it’s best to check the hours of individual stores.
What to Buy?
Luxury cosmetics and perfumes, as well as local specialty souvenirs, are especially popular. Must-try items unique to Vietnam include Vietnamese coffee and spice sets.
- Recommended Items: Vietnamese coffee, silk scarves, local liquor like “Son Tinh,” and more.
Duty-Free Limits
As of October 2024, the duty-free limits in Vietnam are as follows:
- Cigarettes: Up to 200 sticks
- Alcohol: Up to 1 liter (over 22% alcohol) or up to 2 liters (under 22% alcohol)
- Perfume: Up to 50 ml
For detailed information, visit the Vietnam Customs Official Website.

Short Layover? No Problem! Efficient Shopping Guide
Here’s a suggested schedule for enjoying a fulfilling shopping experience during a short layover.
Sample Schedule (2-Hour Layover)
- First 15 minutes: Check the airport map and locate the main duty-free shopping areas.
- Next 45 minutes: Browse for brand-name items and souvenirs. Buy popular items like cosmetics and perfumes early.
- Final 60 minutes: Purchase alcohol and sweets, and use packing services if needed.
Must-Have Vietnamese Souvenirs: Top 5 Picks
1. Vietnamese Coffee Set
Vietnamese coffee is known for its rich taste and distinctive aroma. The traditional “Ca Phe Phin” filter method is famous, and the sweet, dense coffee mixed with condensed milk is beloved by many. Drip coffee sets are popular and easy to use, making them a perfect souvenir.
2. Dried Fruit Mix
Vietnam is renowned for its tropical fruits. Dried mango, banana, papaya, and dragon fruit are colorful, naturally sweet, and make for lightweight, easy-to-carry souvenirs. The minimal additives enhance their natural taste, making them highly popular.
3. Silk Scarves
Vietnamese silk is smooth and lustrous, known for its high quality. The village of Van Phuc near Hanoi is famous for producing hand-crafted silk products using traditional methods. Scarves and shawls come in a variety of colors and designs, making them attractive as fashion items and gifts.
4. Local Spice Sets
Spices and seasonings essential for Vietnamese cuisine are perfect for food lovers. Sets often include “nuoc mam” (fish sauce), lemongrass, and lime leaves, allowing you to recreate authentic Vietnamese flavors at home.
5. Vietnamese Rice Wine (“Rượu gạo”)
“Rượu gạo” is traditional Vietnamese rice wine, ideal for pairing with local dishes. It is mildly sweet and has a relatively low alcohol content. Besides complementing meals, it is also believed to have health benefits.

Enjoying Vietnamese Liquor: Duty-Free Liquor Guide
1. Son Tinh
Son Tinh is a traditional Vietnamese herbal liqueur infused with various herbs and spices. It has a deep aroma and unique flavor, making it a popular post-meal drink. The blend of traditional Vietnamese herbs in Son Tinh offers a taste of local culture.
2. Dà Lạt Wine
Produced in the central highlands of Vietnam, Dà Lạt wine is known for its fruity aroma and light body. Though Vietnam’s wine industry is relatively new, the region’s climate supports vibrant grape cultivation, gaining international attention.

From Sweets to Spices: Food and Drink Souvenir Selection
1. Pho Soup Kit
A quintessential Vietnamese dish, “pho” soup kits make for an authentic souvenir. These kits often include broth base and noodles, making them easy to prepare at home—perfect for beginners.
2. Cashew Nut Chocolate
Vietnam is a leading producer of cashews. Cashew nut chocolates offer a delightful combination of crunchy texture and rich chocolate flavor. The mildly sweet taste makes it a favorite among adults.
3. Nuoc Mam (Fish Sauce)
An essential condiment in Vietnamese cuisine, “nuoc mam” is made from fermented fish, offering a deep umami flavor. It adds complexity to dishes and brings the taste of Vietnamese home cooking to your kitchen. Small bottles are easy to carry.

Save More with VAT Refunds in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a VAT refund system for travelers under certain conditions.
Conditions for VAT Refund
- Purchases of at least 2 million VND (around USD 90) in one store per day
- Items bought within 30 days before your departure
- Goods must be unused
How to Apply for VAT Refund
- Receive a “VAT refund receipt” when purchasing.
- Apply for the refund at the VAT refund counter in the airport before check-in.
- Upon verification, receive the refund in cash or via bank transfer.
For more details, visit the Vietnam Ministry of Finance Official Website.
Best Last-Minute Shopping Spots
- Tan Son Nhat Duty-Free
- Main Area Operating Hours: 24/7
- Location: Near Gate A, International Terminal, Tan Son Nhat International Airport
- Noi Bai Duty-Free Store
- Main Area Operating Hours: 24/7
- Location: Near Gate C, International Terminal, Noi Bai International Airport
Check airport signage or official websites for individual store hours.
Conclusion
Enjoying duty-free shopping during your layover in Vietnam can make your transit time a memorable part of your journey. Both Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi airports offer 24/7 duty-free stores, with a wide array of luxury goods and local specialties. From Vietnamese coffee and silk products to traditional rice wine, there’s no shortage of exciting items to discover. Shop smartly and efficiently to make the most of your travel experience!
While sightseeing during a layover can be fun, are you thinking you’d rather take it easy and relax?
If so, I recommend scheduling some rest at a transit hotel specifically for layovers.
Check out the article below for affordable transit hotels in Ho Chi Minh where you can rest.
