If you're planning a trip across the pond, the first thing on your mind is probably co warto kupic w usa to make the most of those lower prices and unique brands. It's no secret that the United States is basically a giant playground for shoppers. Whether you're hitting up the massive malls in New Jersey or strolling through the boutiques in SoHo, there's a certain thrill in finding deals that you just can't get back home in Europe.
I've spent a lot of time wandering through aisles of Target and navigating the labyrinth of premium outlets, so I've put together a list of what actually makes sense to bring back. We're talking about things that are either significantly cheaper, better quality, or simply unavailable elsewhere.
The tech and gadget obsession
When people ask me about electronics, my answer is always the same: if you need a new phone or laptop, wait until you get to the States. Apple products are the obvious winners here. Even when you factor in the local sales tax, you're usually saving a significant amount compared to European prices. It's not just about the iPhone, though. Things like MacBooks, iPads, and even the Apple Watch can be hundreds of dollars cheaper.
But it's not just the big A. Brands like Bose, Sonos, and Microsoft often have better deals, especially during holiday weekends like Labor Day or Black Friday. If you're into photography, check out stores like B&H Photo in New York. The selection is mind-blowing, and the prices on lenses and camera bodies often beat anything you'll find online in the EU. Just remember to ditch the bulky packaging if you're worried about space in your suitcase—and don't forget you'll need a plug adapter for the different voltage.
Denim and American heritage brands
You can't talk about shopping in the US without mentioning Levi's. It's almost a rite of passage. In Europe, a pair of 501s might set you back €100 or more, but in a US outlet? You can often snag them for $35 or $40. It's honestly a bit ridiculous how much of a markup we pay elsewhere.
Beyond denim, look for brands like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein. In Poland or Germany, these are treated as high-end luxury brands with prices to match. In the US, they're much more accessible, especially if you head to a "Premium Outlet" center. You'll find racks of polo shirts and sweaters for a fraction of their usual cost. I usually suggest leaving plenty of room in your luggage specifically for a few pairs of jeans and some basic tees from these brands.
Sneaker culture and sportswear
If you're a sneakerhead, the US is your version of Disneyland. Nike, New Balance, and Under Armour are everywhere. While the prices on standard models are better, the real draw is the exclusives. American stores like Foot Locker or the flagship Nike stores often carry colorways and collaborations that never see a European release.
Also, keep an eye out for Nike Clearance Stores. These are different from regular factory outlets; they're where the "last of the last" items go, and you can find incredible performance gear for next to nothing. I once found a pair of professional running shoes for $30 that were retailing for $150 back home.
The wonderland of American beauty products
For anyone who loves skincare or makeup, Sephora and Ulta are the ultimate destinations. When considering co warto kupic w usa, beauty products are always high on the list because many cult-favorite brands don't ship internationally or are way more expensive overseas.
Brands like Glossier, Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez, and Tatcha have a huge presence here. Also, don't sleep on the drugstore brands. Places like CVS or Walgreens carry brands like CeraVe or La Roche-Posay sometimes in different formulations or much larger sizes than what you're used to. Then there's Bath & Body Works. Their candles and soaps are basically a currency of their own among travelers. It's hard to resist the "3 for $30" deals on those giant three-wick candles, even if they do weigh down your bag.
Vitamins, supplements, and the "health" aisle
This sounds like a boring category, but hear me out. The supplement aisles in the US are legendary. Whether you're looking for high-quality melatonin, collagen peptides, or just a massive bottle of multivitamins, the variety is staggering. Brands like Solgar or Now Foods are significantly cheaper in the States.
The same goes for things like whitening strips. Crest 3D White strips are something almost everyone I know asks for when someone goes to the US. They are much stronger and more effective than the versions allowed under EU regulations, and they're available at every grocery store.
Snacks and "only in America" flavors
I always leave a little corner of my suitcase for the weird and wonderful snacks. We have Reese's in Europe now, but we don't have the twenty different varieties they have in a US supermarket. From Pumpkin Pie flavored Oreos in the fall to the spicy intensity of Takis or Flaming Hot Cheetos, American snacks are an experience.
I'd also suggest looking for Trader Joe's products. Their "Everything But The Bagel" seasoning has a cult following for a reason, and their selection of unique nut butters and dried fruits makes for great, inexpensive gifts for friends back home.
A few practical tips for your haul
Before you go on a spending spree, there are a couple of "pro tips" you should keep in mind. First, the price you see on the tag is not the price you pay at the register. Sales tax is added at the end, and it varies from state to state. If you're really serious about shopping, states like Delaware, Oregon, and New Hampshire have 0% sales tax. If you're in New York, clothes and footwear under $110 are also tax-exempt, which is a nice little bonus.
Also, think about customs. Most countries have a limit on the value of goods you can bring back without paying import duties. It's usually a good idea to remove tags and maybe even wash your new clothes once if you want them to look like "personal belongings" rather than a commercial shipment.
Lastly, bring a foldable duffle bag. You'll likely leave with more than you arrived with, and having an extra bag you can check on the way home is a lifesaver. Shopping in the States is an art form, and once you figure out co warto kupic w usa, you'll probably find yourself planning your next trip before you've even unpacked your first haul. Happy hunting!