Gate 20 in T1 is your last-minute Panama hat stop
This small shop in Terminal T1 near gate 20 sells genuine Panama hats and related accessories, all post-security. Stock runs from basic straw models to more detailed weaves, with prices typically starting around the mid-range souvenir level and climbing into higher brackets for finer work. It’s a quick walk from most central T1 gates, so you can duck in after immigration and still keep an eye on your boarding time.
Hours track the main international bank in T1 and usually cover early morning departures through late-night banks, roughly 06:00 to 22:00, but staff sometimes close a bit early on slow evenings. Expect airport markups compared with city shops in Panama City, especially on the higher-grade weaves. On the plus side, you avoid a separate trip into town and can buy right before your flight, with no extra packing time.
Quality varies by piece, so check the stitching and brim shape closely before you hand over a credit card. Try on at least two or three sizes; humidity in Panama City can make your usual hat size feel off by half a centimeter. If you like a specific style at gate 20, buy it there, as stock can differ from other souvenir spots in T1 and T2.
Tip: plan 10–15 minutes at gate 20 to try on hats and re-pack your carry-on so you’re not juggling a hat box at boarding.