Shops

Shopping Overview

With 42 shops spread across its terminals, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) makes it easy to cover everything from last-minute essentials to luxury splurges. Expect a strong mix of duty-free (especially in Terminal B), luxury fashion and jewelry (Cartier, ALLSAINTS), convenience and news (The New Stand, Stellar News Express), electronics and travel gear (Brookstone, Inmotion), and LA-themed souvenirs (I Love LA) alongside specialty stores like Sol Surf and the Magic Johnson Sports Store—plus 36 more.

Main shopping pockets include Terminal 1 for gifts, beauty, and grab-and-go items (MAC Cosmetics, Kiehl’s, The New Stand, Sol Surf), Terminal 6 for a well-rounded mix (DFS Duty Free, M.Fredric, See’s Candies, The New Stand), and Terminal B (Tom Bradley International Terminal) for the deepest luxury and international retail lineup (Cartier, Tumi, Victoria’s Secret, LEGO, duty-free shops).

Duty-Free & Tax Savings

LAX’s best duty-free shopping is in Terminal B and at DFS Duty Free (Terminal 6). Duty-free is generally available to international departing travelers who can show a valid passport and boarding pass; some purchases may be sealed for delivery at the gate or to comply with connection rules. The biggest savings typically come from fragrances and cosmetics (look for MAC Cosmetics and premium fragrance counters), alcohol, tobacco, and luxury goods.

Common allowance reminders: many countries cap duty-free alcohol at around 1 liter per adult and tobacco at limited quantities; US duty-free entry often includes up to $800 in goods per person (varying by residency and trip). The US generally does not offer a nationwide VAT-refund scheme like many countries, so “tax refund” processes are typically not applicable for most travelers departing from LAX.

Traveler-Specific Tips

• Families: Head to LEGO (Terminal B) for kid-friendly gifts; The New Stand and Stellar News Express are reliable for snacks, headphones, and travel basics.
• Business travelers: Brookstone and Inmotion (Terminal 3) are great for chargers, adapters, and noise-canceling gear; M.Fredric (Terminal 6) and ALLSAINTS (Terminal B) help with last-minute wardrobe upgrades.
• Budget travelers: Pick up affordable souvenirs at I Love LA (Terminal 1) and practical items at Wilshire & Fairfax or A/K Boulevard (Terminal 3).
• Gift shoppers: For premium picks, browse Cartier and Tumi (Terminal B) or fragrance and accessories at Larchmont Junction (Terminal 5).

Practical Shopping Info

Some brands may offer reserve online/pickup options (most common with duty-free and major brands), but availability varies by store—plan to confirm on the retailer’s site before travel. Shops typically accept USD and major credit cards; currency exchange is available within the airport complex, particularly around international areas (Terminal B). Return/refund policies are set by each retailer—keep receipts and note that duty-free returns can be more restrictive once sealed or after leaving the secure area.

Best by terminal: Terminal 1 for beauty and souvenirs (MAC, Kiehl’s, Sol Surf); Terminal 5 for LA sports and upscale gifting (Magic Johnson Sports Store, Larchmont Junction); Terminal 6 and Terminal B for the broadest mix including duty-free (DFS, Terminal B duty-free).

Local Specialties

For last-minute LA gifts, look for I Love LA souvenirs, beachy finds at Pier Provisions, and West Coast style at Sol Surf. Sweet, packable presents include See’s Candies (Terminal 6 and Terminal B). A uniquely LA pickup is Lakers-themed merchandise at the Magic Johnson Sports Store (Terminal 5), ideal for sports fans and easy to carry on.