You can browse the Amsterdam airport shops before security at Schiphol Plaza and after security in the departure lounges. Capi has stores in both areas, helping you find electronics for your journey. This guide to Amsterdam Schiphol shops explains where to browse, what else you can buy and how shopping fits around your flight. Start with your gate, then discover what is waiting along your route.
Amsterdam Schiphol shops at a glance
Schiphol uses a single terminal building with separate departure halls, shopping lounges and gate piers. Your departure hall and shopping lounge describe different stages of your journey.
Schiphol Plaza is the public shopping area before security. Beyond security, the departure lounges bring together electronics, beauty, fashion, books and gifts. Your boarding pass and route determine which areas you can access.
Shopping area | Access | Useful for |
Schiphol Plaza | Before security; open to visitors and passengers | Essentials before check-in or after arrival |
Lounge 1 | After security, towards B, C and D59–D87 | Browsing on your route to these gates |
Lounges 2 and 3 | After security, in the non-Schengen departure area | Shopping before an onward international flight |
Shops near gate piers | After security; access depends on your route | A final stop close to boarding |
Opening times vary by shop and area. Some airside shops open early for morning departures, while Plaza stores follow their own schedules. An airport that stays open overnight does not mean every shop does.
Use Schiphol’s official shop directory to check individual locations and opening times. Check ahead for an early departure or late flight.
What else can you buy at Schiphol?
There is more to explore than electronics. Across Schiphol, you can browse fashion, beauty, Dutch souvenirs, books and food. The selection changes between public areas and departure lounges, so focus on what is available along your route.
For fashion and accessories, think about something useful beyond the airport: a bag for your trip, sunglasses or an extra layer. Beauty shopping offers fragrance, skincare and personal care products for yourself or a gift.
Dutch souvenirs make a thoughtful reminder of your visit. Look for locally inspired designs and gifts that fit comfortably in your hand baggage. Check your destination’s import rules before choosing food to take abroad.
Books and magazines can turn waiting time into reading time. Pick something for the flight, or a puzzle to share with your travelling companions. Food shops are useful for snacks and edible gifts before you board.
Before paying, consider space in your bag and any checks ahead. Liquids, food and fragile purchases may need extra planning.
Where to shop before and after security
Before security: Schiphol Plaza
You can browse Schiphol Plaza without a boarding pass. It suits arriving passengers, departing travellers and anyone meeting friends or family. You will find groceries, reading material, personal care items and electronics before entering the departure area.
Before security, check your travel kit while your luggage is accessible. Have you packed the right cable and a plug adapter for your destination?
The Schiphol Plaza electronics store offers a shopping option on the public side. You can also explore the Travel Plaza range for an overview of the wider concept. That overview covers the brand collection, rather than a guaranteed assortment at this location.
If you buy before checking in, decide where each purchase belongs. Keep power banks in your hand baggage, following your airline’s rules. Leave time for bag drop and security before settling into a longer browse.
After security: Lounge 1
Lounge 1 is a shopping stop on the way to gates B, C and D59–D87. You can browse electronics alongside other airport shopping categories. Check your gate on the departure screens before choosing how long to spend here.
For travel technology, the Lounge 1 electronics store is a practical starting point. Think about what would improve the journey ahead: quieter listening, dependable charging or a camera for your next adventure. A clear purpose makes comparing options easier.
After security: Lounges 2 and 3
Lounges 2 and 3 serve the non-Schengen departure area, on routes towards gates D1–D57, E, F, G and H. Electronics stores are listed in both lounges. Check Schiphol’s airport map against your onward gate before browsing.
Check the Lounge 2 store page or Lounge 3 store page when planning your route. Passport control and walking distances can affect the time you have available. Choose a shop that fits your onward journey.
If you are changing flights
Start with your next gate and boarding time. Check whether your connection requires security or passport control before browsing shops in Amsterdam Airport. Allow for those steps before deciding what to explore.
For a short connection, browse within your accessible departure area. Visiting Plaza means leaving the transfer area, with entry requirements and return checks potentially applying.
Travel electronics at Schiphol: what to look for
Forgotten an essential, or ready to discover something new? Capi’s Schiphol stores focus on electronics and accessories for travellers. Schiphol’s official listing names Sony, JBL, Apple and DJI among the brands offered.
Explore the electronics collection to get a feel for the categories before travelling. Individual models, colours and stock vary by store. Use your shopping time to compare what matters for your trip.
Headphones and earbuds for your flight
Start with comfort, especially if you expect to wear headphones for several hours. Consider whether you prefer over-ear headphones or compact earbuds. Then think about noise cancellation, calls and how easily they fit into your bag.
Ask which demonstration options are available before making your choice. If you want to use the aircraft’s entertainment system, check its connection requirements. Bluetooth compatibility with your phone does not guarantee compatibility with every seat screen.
Explore our article on Bose headphones and earbuds for travel for listening inspiration. Consider your needs before comparing the options in store.
Chargers, cables and power banks
A useful charging purchase starts with your device. Check its connector, charging requirements and the cable you already carry. A charger needs to suit your phone, tablet or laptop, rather than simply fit the socket.
Bring your device or model details when asking for advice. Consider how many charging ports you need for your journey.
Before buying a power bank, check your airline’s current battery rules. Capacity, permitted quantities and onboard use can be restricted. Make sure the capacity marking is readable and keep the purchase accessible in your cabin bag.
Travel adapters for your destination
Check the socket type at your destination, including any countries on a longer itinerary. An adapter changes the plug connection; it does not automatically convert voltage. Check your device’s input rating before using it abroad.
If you carry several devices, think about which need a wall socket and which charge through USB. This helps you avoid buying equipment you will not use. A compact setup leaves more room for everything else.
Gadgets for children on the move
Travelling with little explorers? Child-friendly headphones and compact gadgets can help keep young travellers entertained between take-off and touchdown. Consider comfort, ease of use and how easily each item fits into a small bag.
Look for the “Gadgets for Your Little Ones” highlight on the store pages for inspiration. Check the local assortment in store, as the selection varies.
Cameras and accessories for exploring
Choose camera equipment around the moments you want to capture. City walks, family holidays and outdoor adventures can call for different features. Consider size, ease of use and how much you want to carry.
For memory cards, check compatibility and the requirements of your camera. For battery-powered equipment, review airline guidance before travelling. If you are considering a drone, also check the rules at your destination before planning to fly it.
Tips for shopping at Schiphol
Plan around boarding, rather than take-off
Check your boarding time, gate and walking route before browsing. Leave room for a gate change or an extra check. An interesting display is easier to enjoy when you know your next step.
If your connection is short, prioritise the item you need most. Tell the store team your device model and what you want to solve.
Understand tax-free shopping before paying
Shopping after security does not automatically make electronics VAT-free. Travellers permanently resident outside the EU may qualify for a refund on eligible purchases. Confirm the conditions with the retailer before paying, and check Schiphol’s VAT refund guidance.
Check payment, warranty and baggage details
Check whether your preferred payment method is accepted before completing the purchase. If offered currency conversion, review the displayed rate and any card-provider charges. Keep your receipt somewhere you can find after travelling.
For a larger purchase, ask about warranty coverage and returns in your home country. Check the included accessories and regional compatibility. Leave enough room in your cabin bag for the item and its packaging.
Power banks belong in hand baggage, with further limits set by your airline. KLM’s battery guidance explains its own requirements. Check your operating airline’s policy before buying or boarding.
Frequently asked questions
What time do Schiphol shops open?
Opening times vary by store and shopping area. Some shops after security open early for morning flights. Check the official shop directory for the location you plan to visit.
Can I shop before security at Schiphol?
Yes. Schiphol Plaza has public shops, including an electronics store. You do not need a boarding pass to browse the public shopping area.
Where can I buy electronics at Schiphol?
You can find Capi at Schiphol Plaza before security and in Lounges 1, 2 and 3 after security. Check the airport store locator for individual store pages. Choose the location along your departure route.
Where can I buy headphones or a charger at Schiphol?
Visit the electronics stores at Schiphol Plaza before security or Lounges 1, 2 and 3 after security. Ask the team about available headphones, chargers and compatibility with your device.
Is shopping at Schiphol tax-free?
Tax treatment depends on the purchase and applicable conditions. Eligible travellers living outside the EU may reclaim VAT through a separate refund process. Confirm the arrangement with the retailer before paying.
Can I shop during a layover?
Yes, if shops are open within your accessible departure area. Check your onward gate, boarding time and any required controls first. Keep browsing close to your route when connection time is limited.
Ready for your next journey?
Explore Capi’s Schiphol store pages to find electronics along your route. Bring your travel plans and a little curiosity; the team can help you compare the options.
