Top Things to Buy in America: Your Ultimate Shopping Guide

We’ll walk through the categories travelers really stock up on—snacks, beauty, fashion, tech, pharmacy items, and quirky souvenirs—plus how to keep your budget, luggage weight, and customs rules under control. Along the way, you’ll see how having reliable mobile data (via eSIM or other options) makes in‑store decisions and deal-hunting much easier.

Quick Shopping Checklist – Must‑Buy Categories in America

 

If you just want a fast overview of things to buy in America, here are the categories most travelers end up packing home:

• American snacks & candy
  Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, M&M's with wild flavors, Flamin' Hot Cheetos, Hershey's bars, Twizzlers—great for friends, coworkers, or movie nights. ($3-8 for share bags).
  

• Drinks & breakfast cereals
  Cherry Coke, root beer, Vanilla Coke, plus iconic cereals like Lucky Charms and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Very “American” in both taste and packaging.

• Beauty & skincare products
  Drugstore staples like CeraVe and Neutrogena, lip balms from Burt’s Bees, plus Sephora favorites such as Fenty, Supergoop, and Drunk Elephant.

• Jeans, sneakers & casual wear
  Levi's jeans ($40-80 at outlets), Nike or New Balance sneakers ($60-120), college hoodies, and sports team merchandise often feel more affordable and more varied than in many countries.
  

• Tech & gadgets
  Apple devices, headphones, game consoles, Kindles, and accessories—sometimes 10-30% cheaper than home markets (after factoring in sales tax), but you need to watch warranty coverage and voltage compatibility.
  

• Pharmacy items & vitamins
  Over‑the‑counter painkillers, allergy meds, melatonin, multivitamins, baby products—US pharmacies carry a huge range, but always check labels and your doctor’s advice.

• Fun, quirky souvenirs
  Red Solo cups, board games, US city mugs, Route 66 merch, national park T‑shirts, and small gifts that scream “I went to America.”

You don’t need to buy from every category; mix and match based on who you’re shopping for, your budget, and how much space you’ve left in your suitcase.

Understanding American Shopping Culture

American retail is built around convenience, huge selection, extended hours (many stores open until 10-11 PM or even 24/7), and constant promotions. If you're coming from a country used to small city supermarkets, walking into a US big‑box store can be a shock. 

Where you’ll actually shop:

• Big‑box retailers (Walmart, Target)
  These are your all‑in‑one stops: snacks, cereals, toiletries, beauty, casual clothes, basic electronics, toys, and home goods. Target leans a bit more “curated” and design‑forward; Walmart is often cheaper on basics.

• Grocery stores
  Chains like Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Safeway, or Whole Foods carry everyday food plus snacks and some beauty and health items.

  • Trader Joe’s: cult snacks, unique sauces, frozen foods.

  • Whole Foods: organic, health‑focused products, pricier but fun to browse.

• Pharmacies / drugstores (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid)
  These are not just pharmacies. You’ll find OTC medicine, vitamins, snacks, drinks, makeup, skincare, seasonal items, and sometimes basic electronics.

• Malls & outlet malls

  • Regular malls: fashion brands, department stores, tech shops, and food courts.

  • Outlet malls: discounted fashion, sportswear, shoes, luggage—often older seasons or outlet‑specific lines.

• Specialty stores

  • Best Buy: electronics and appliances.

  • Apple Store: Apple devices, accessories, support.

  • Sephora / Ulta: beauty and skincare, from drugstore‑adjacent to high‑end.

Sales tax reality check

Shelf prices in the US usually do not include sales tax. When you pay, tax is added at the register and varies by state (and sometimes by city). A $100 pair of sneakers might cost $108–$110 after tax, depending on where you are. A few states (like Oregon and Delaware) don’t charge sales tax on most purchases, which can be a bonus if your trip passes through them.

Before you fill your cart, it’s worth checking store apps or websites for digital coupons, store maps, and opening hours. Having mobile data on your phone makes that much easier than hunting down free Wi‑Fi.

Snacks & Drinks: Iconic American Flavors to Bring Home

The snack aisles in US stores are legendary. The first time you hit a Walmart or Target snack aisle, it’s easy to lose 30 minutes just reading flavors. Here’s how to turn that chaos into smart souvenir shopping.

Classic American Candy & Chocolate

For many travelers, candy is the easiest and most fun category of things to buy in America.

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
  The classic American peanut butter + chocolate combo you’ve seen in movies and TV. Great as souvenirs because everyone wants to “try the real thing.”

  • Who it’s for: Friends, family, coworkers, kids, anyone curious about American sweets.

  • Where to buy: Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, grocery stores.

  • Price: Around $3–$6 for multi‑packs or share bags.

• Quick Price Comparison: Popular Snacks

Item	US Price	Typical Europe Price	Typical Asia Price
Reese's (share bag)	$3-6	£5-8 (~$6-10)	Not widely available
Flamin' Hot Cheetos	$3-5	€5-7 (~$5-8)	¥800-1200 (~$5-8)
Lucky Charms cereal	$4-6	£6-9 (~$7-11)	¥1500-2000 (~$10-14)
Pop-Tarts (8-pack)	$3-5	£4-6 (~$5-7)	¥800-1200 (~$5-8)

Prices updated December 2025. International prices often 50-100% higher due to import costs.

• M&M’s (limited and US‑only flavors)
  You’ll find peanut, peanut butter, pretzel, brownie, and seasonal editions. Limited flavors make easy “you can only get this in the US” gifts.

  • Good for office treat bowls and sharing.

• Hershey’s, Twizzlers, Junior Mints & more

  • Hershey’s chocolate is classic US, even if European chocolate fans find it less rich.

  • Twizzlers and Red Vines are chewy licorice‑style candies you rarely see abroad.

  • Junior Mints are a mint‑chocolate combo made famous by US pop culture.

Look for bags with individually wrapped pieces; they travel well and are easy to distribute.

Chips & Salty Snacks

US chips (crisps) and savory snacks come in some wild flavors and colors.

• Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
  A cult favorite for spice lovers. The bright‑red fingers are part of the experience.

  • Who it’s for: Friends who like spicy or bold snacks.

  • Where to buy: Almost everywhere—grocery stores, gas stations, Walmart, Target.

  • Tip: They can be hotter than they look. Maybe start with smaller bags.

• Doritos & Lay’s in unusual flavors
  Flavors like Cool Ranch Doritos, Kettle Cooked chips, or limited editions (taco, cheeseburger, or regional flavors) make fun souvenirs.

  • Variety packs are handy if you’re sharing with a group.

Most big bags cost around $3–$6. Keep in mind that air inside the bag is normal; the actual chips take less space than you expect.

Breakfast Cereals & Sweet Treats

The US cereal aisle is its own universe.

• Lucky Charms
  Famous for its colorful marshmallow bits—pretty much breakfast candy. Kids (and nostalgic adults) love it.

• Cinnamon Toast Crunch & similar flavors
  Sweet, crunchy, and unapologetically sugary. Very “American weekend breakfast” energy.

• Pop‑Tarts
  Toaster pastries in foil packs, with flavors like Frosted Strawberry or Cookies & Creme. Great if you want something easy to pack and share.

Instead of huge family boxes, look for mini boxes or variety packs to save space and try more flavors.

Drinks & Syrups

Liquids are trickier to bring home, but a few American drinks and syrups are worth considering.

• Cherry Coke & Vanilla Coke
  In some countries these are rare or more expensive, so friends may request them specifically.

  • Buy cans, not large bottles, to save weight and reduce mess if something leaks.

• Root beer & craft sodas
  Root beer is a uniquely American flavor that people either love or hate. You’ll also see regional craft sodas in glass bottles—nice if you’re checking luggage.

• Maple syrup
  Not unique to the US (hello, Canada), but you can find good maple syrup in many US stores. Look for smaller glass bottles labeled “pure maple syrup,” not just flavored pancake syrup.

Travel warning:
Liquids in carry‑on are limited (usually 100 ml per container, 1 liter total). Anything bigger needs to go in checked luggage, well wrapped in plastic bags or clothing to survive the flight.

Smart Traveler Tip – Use Your Data Before You Grab a Cart

Before you go wild in the snack aisle, use mobile data to quickly:

• Search “best American snacks to try” on TikTok, YouTube, or Reddit for fresh ideas.

• Check your home country’s customs rules for food imports (meat, dairy, and certain ingredients can be restricted).

• Compare prices between stores if you’re planning a big haul.

Either way, having internet on your phone makes snack hunting more strategic and less random.

Beauty & Skincare: Drugstore Gems and Sephora Favorites

 

If your social feeds ever show US beauty hauls, you’ll recognize a lot of what’s on American shelves. The range is huge—from $5 drugstore finds to $80 serums.

Drugstore Staples You’ll See Everywhere

US drugstores and big‑box stores stock brands that have become cult favorites worldwide.

• CeraVe
  

  Known for gentle cleansers and moisturizers with ceramides. A CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser costs around $15-18 in the US versus £12-15 (~$15-19) in the UK or €15-18 (~$16-20) in Europe, modest savings but with far more product varieties available.

  Good for sensitive or minimal‑routine skincare fans. The US market often gets new CeraVe launches 3-6 months before international markets.

  Found at: CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, many grocery stores.

• Neutrogena & Olay

  • Neutrogena: sunscreens, cleansers, acne products, and body mists with high SPF.

  • Olay: anti‑aging moisturizers and body lotions, sometimes with retinol.

  • Both brands tend to have more SKUs in the US than in other markets.

• Burt’s Bees
  Famous for lip balms and natural‑leaning skin products.

  • Buy multi‑pack lip balm sets as small, easy gifts.

  • Widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets, and Target.

• Nail care & drugstore makeup
  Brands like Maybelline, CoverGirl, Essie, and Sally Hansen have big displays.

  • Good value if your home country’s prices are higher or selection is limited.

These products are ideal for topping up your routine or grabbing budget‑friendly souvenirs.

Sephora & Ulta Favorites Worth the Splurge

If you enjoy premium beauty, US Sephora and Ulta stores are hard to resist.

Look out for:

• Supergoop
  Sunscreens that focus on texture and finish (e.g., glowy or matte). Some formulas appear in the US before other regions.

• Drunk Elephant
  Well‑known for serums, vitamin C, and acid products. Value sets and mini kits are particularly good for travel and gifting.

• Fenty Beauty
  Fenty’s shade range for foundation, concealer, and lip products is a big draw. Sephora often has Fenty displays front and center.

• Other mini sets and holiday kits
  Sephora and Ulta both stock limited‑time sets around holidays or sale events (Black Friday, Christmas, etc.). They’re perfect if you want to try several products without full‑size commitment.

Always compare prices to your home country’s stores or websites—some products are much cheaper in the US, others are similar once you factor in tax and exchange rates.

“Stronger” Skincare and Pharmacy Finds

US over‑the‑counter shelves sometimes include products or ingredient strengths that are harder to find elsewhere—especially for:

• Retinol and exfoliating acids

• High‑SPF body sprays and mists

• Sleep aids like melatonin

• Certain acne treatments

Keep it safe:

• Always read the label carefully, including strengths and warnings.

• If you have sensitive skin or medical conditions, ask a pharmacist or your doctor before trying anything strong or unfamiliar.

• Remember that “stronger” is not automatically “better” for your skin or health.

Smart Traveler Tip – Let Your Phone Be Your Beauty Editor

Before you drop $50 on a serum just because the packaging is pretty:

• Check reviews on Sephora, Ulta, or Amazon.

• Google the product + your skin type (e.g., “dry skin review”).

• Compare prices with your home country’s official retailers.

Having data on your phone while you stand in the aisle is the easiest way to avoid impulse buys that don’t suit your skin or budget.

Fashion, Jeans & Sneakers: Dressing the American Way

 

If you’re into casual style, US fashion shopping can be very rewarding—especially for denim, sneakers, and sportswear.

Denim Deals – Why Levi’s Feels Different in the US

Levi’s is one of the classic things people buy in America:

• Why:

  • Wide range of fits, washes, and sizes.

  • Outlet malls often sell jeans for noticeably less than many international stores.

• Where to buy:

  • Levi’s outlet stores in outlet malls.

  • Department stores and multi‑brand retailers.

  • Discount chains like TJ Maxx or Marshalls sometimes have older styles even cheaper.

Check the fabric blend and try on different cuts—US stores usually have several fit options (Slim, 511, 501, Wedgie Fit, etc.) that may not all be stocked in your country.

Real price examples (December 2025):

• Levi's 501 Original: $40-60 at US outlets, £80-95 (~$100-120) in UK, €90-110 (~$95-117) in Europe
• Levi's 511 Slim: $35-55 at US outlets, ₹8,000-10,000 (~$95-120) in India
• Savings: Typically 30-50% cheaper in US, even after sales tax

Many travelers report buying 3-4 pairs at outlet malls for the price of one pair at home.

Sneakers and Sportswear Culture

Sneaker culture is huge in the US, but you don’t have to be a sneakerhead to benefit.

• Mainstream brands: Nike, New Balance, Converse, Vans, Adidas, Puma.

• Sports teams: NBA, NFL, MLB, and college teams all have their own apparel.

Where to look:

• Brand stores in malls and outlets.

• Shoe chains like Foot Locker.

• Outlet centers for discounted older models or colorways.

Limited edition drops and resale platforms are a different world. If that’s not your scene, regular retail and outlet stock are more than enough.

Outlet & Mall Strategy for Travelers

Outlet malls can easily absorb an entire day if you’re not careful.

A few tactics:

1. Go in with a short list of stores and items (e.g., Levi’s, Nike, a backpack).

2. Check sale racks and clearance sections last; start with what you know you need.

3. Keep an eye on your suitcase weight and your credit card—outlet “deals” add up fast.

4. Review return policies; some outlet or clearance items are final sale.

Wearable Souvenir Ideas

Wearable souvenirs are practical: you’ll actually use them at home.

• College or university hoodies and T‑shirts

• Baseball caps with US teams or city names

• National park or Route 66 T‑shirts

• City‑branded sweatshirts (NYC, LA, Chicago)

They’re soft, pack easily, and every time you wear them you get a little hit of travel nostalgia.

Tech & Gadgets: When It Makes Sense to Buy Electronics in the US

Tech shopping in America can be tempting—rows of shiny devices, sale signs, and early releases. But it’s not always the automatic bargain people expect.

Apple Ecosystem – When It’s Worth Buying in the US

Apple products are a popular target for travelers:

• Devices: iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, AirPods, accessories.
• Where to buy: Apple Store, Best Buy, carrier‑free authorized resellers.

Pros:

• US often gets new Apple releases first (e.g., iPhone 16 launched in US before many markets).
• Unlocked iPhones work with SIM or eSIM globally—perfect for travelers who plan to use travel eSIMs.
• Promotional pricing during Black Friday, Back to School can save $50-200 on devices.

Example: iPhone 16 Pro costs $999 in US vs £999 (~$1,260) in UK or ₹134,900 (~$1,600) in India—20-40% savings before considering sales tax.

Things to double‑check:

• Warranty: Some Apple warranties are global, others may be easier to service in the region of purchase. Check before you buy.
• Price vs home country: After tax and currency conversion, not every model is cheaper.
• Plug adapters: MacBook chargers and other power bricks will need the right plug adapters at minimum.

Other Gadgets Travelers Often Eye

Beyond Apple, common tech purchases include:

• Headphones & earbuds
  Bose, Sony, Beats, and other brands often have wide selection and occasional discounts.
• Game consoles & accessories
  PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, controllers, and games. Check for region restrictions on games or streaming content.
• E‑readers & tablets
  Kindle, Fire tablets, and similar devices, sometimes with US‑only deals.
• Travel gear & accessories
  Power banks, travel routers, good charging cables, compact Bluetooth speakers.

Some devices are truly global; others may have voltage differences (for larger electronics) or content region locks. Always check specifications and your home country’s compatibility before committing.

Pros and Cons of Buying Tech in America

Pros

• Huge range of brands, colors, and configurations.
• Potentially better prices during big sale events (Black Friday, Cyber Monday).
• Early access to certain models or accessories.

Cons

• Sales tax makes the final price higher than the tag.
• Warranty or repair support may be limited outside the US.
• Voltage and plug types can be an issue for some electronics.
• Customs duties on high‑value items when you return home.

Use Your Phone to Spot Real Deals, Not Fake Ones

When you’re in a Best Buy or Apple Store, use mobile data to:

• Compare the in‑store price with Amazon US and with your home country’s online price.
• Check if your country’s Apple or electronics retailers have upcoming sales.
• Read quick reviews (especially for less‑known brands and accessories).

That 20% “deal” in‑store might not be a deal at all once you factor in tax and warranty differences.

Pharmacy, Health & Vitamins: What Travelers Actually Stock Up On

Pharmacies in the US feel more like mini supermarkets with an extra‑large medicine aisle. They’re convenient both for your trip and for bringing a few key items home.

Everyday OTC Meds and First‑Aid

Common over‑the‑counter (OTC) items travelers buy:

• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Cold and flu remedies
• Allergy tablets and nasal sprays
• Antacids, stomach relief meds
• Bandages, antiseptic creams, and basic first‑aid supplies

Why buy them:

• Handy to have during your trip for emergencies.
• Sometimes packaged in large value packs that can last months back home.

But keep in mind:

• Formulations, doses, and brand names often differ from your home country.
• Always read dosing instructions carefully and follow local guidelines.
• If you have any health conditions or take prescription meds, consult your doctor or a pharmacist.

Vitamins and Supplements

US shelves are packed with:

• Multivitamins
• Vitamin D, C, and B‑complex
• Melatonin for sleep
• Collagen powders, hair/skin/nail formulas

These can be attractive if prices at home are higher, but:

• Higher dose doesn’t mean better or safer.
• Bringing large quantities across borders may trigger questions at customs.
• Supplements are not a replacement for medical treatment—check with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

Family and Baby Products

If you have kids or relatives with young children, you may consider:

• Baby lotions, creams, and diaper creams
• Kids’ gummies (vitamins or simple candy)
• Baby snacks and pouches

For anything related to baby formula or special medical diets, be extra careful:

• Many countries have strict rules on importing baby formula.
• Never substitute a baby’s prescribed or recommended formula without talking to a pediatrician.

As with all health‑related shopping in America, think of pharmacies as a place for convenience and basics, not as a substitute for personal medical advice.

Fun, Quirky & Cultural Souvenirs: Beyond the Typical Keychain

Not every souvenir needs to be expensive. Some of the most “American” things you can pack are inexpensive, useful, and a little bit silly.

Quick ideas:

• Red Solo cups

• Baseball caps with US teams or logos

• US city or state mugs

• Board games and card games

• Route 66 or national park T‑shirts

• Motel‑style key tags or signs

• Stationery and stickers from big‑box stores

• State‑themed magnets and pins

Everyday Pop‑Culture Icons

A few items feel like they walked straight out of American movies:

• Red Solo cups
  Those red plastic cups you see at high school or college parties in films. They’re cheap, stackable, and instantly recognizable.

• Baseball caps
  Caps with MLB, NBA, NFL logos, or just city names like “NYC” or “LA” are wearable souvenirs that last a long time.

• Graphic T‑shirts
  Think Route 66 designs, retro diner logos, or band tees from big retailers.

These make great casual gifts—including for yourself.

Games, Stationery and Toys

US stores do games and stationery surprisingly well:

• Board and card games
  Monopoly US editions, Uno, Cards Against Humanity (for adults), plus endless party games. Great for family nights or friends back home.

• Stationery
  Notebooks, planners, stickers, gel pens—especially in Target, Walmart, and craft stores. Teenagers and office workers love these as small gifts.

• Toys & plushies
  Movie and game character merch, Lego sets, and plush toys are easy wins for kids.

Most of these items are reasonably priced but take up suitcase space fast—pick favorites instead of entire shelves.

Regional & Cultural Pieces

Depending on where you travel in the US, you’ll find:

• Western and cowboy items (hats, belts, boots) in places like Texas or the Southwest.

• City‑specific designs (NYC skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Chicago architecture).

• National park merchandise if you visit parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon.

For Native American or Indigenous crafts, try to buy from reputable shops or cooperatives that clearly state how they support local communities. Authentic pieces cost more, but they’re more meaningful than mass‑produced copies.

Office and Coworker‑Friendly Gifts

If your culture expects you to bring something back for colleagues, think practical:

• Individually wrapped candies or chocolate assortments

• Mini snack packs in American flavors

• City‑branded mugs or reusable cups

• Pens, sticky notes, and small desk accessories from US brands

These are easy to share, inexpensive, and don’t require guessing people’s clothing sizes or beauty preferences.

Smart Shopping Logistics: Budget, Luggage & Customs

It’s easy to get carried away once you’re inside a US megastore. A bit of planning saves you from overweight baggage fees and customs headaches.

Set a Simple Shopping Budget Before You Land

Give yourself a rough structure:

• Decide how much of your total trip budget goes to shopping.

• Break it down by category—for example:

  • 40% fashion & shoes

  • 20% beauty & skincare

  • 20% snacks & souvenirs

  • 20% “flex” for unexpected finds

You can even set a soft daily limit for impulse shopping. In practice, “Target tax” (that habit of going in for one item and leaving with ten) is real.

Packing Smart So Nothing Explodes in Your Suitcase

Keep your loot—and your clothes—safe:

• Put liquids (syrups, shampoos, sprays) in Ziploc bags or packing cubes.

• Wrap glass bottles in clothing and place them in the middle of your suitcase, surrounded by soft items.

• Store heavy items (shoes, large food items) near the wheels of your suitcase.

• Bring a foldable extra bag if you suspect you’ll shop a lot, but remember airlines charge for extra or overweight bags.

Don’t forget the weight of packaging: cereal boxes and huge chip bags are mostly air; you may be better off with smaller packages.

Customs – The Boring Part That Saves You Headaches

Every country has its own rules, but a few general points:

• Food: Meat, dairy, and certain fresh products may be restricted or banned. Check your home country’s customs website.

• Alcohol & tobacco: Often strictly limited by quantity and value.

• Meds & supplements: Large quantities or certain substances can raise questions at customs.

Keep receipts and have a rough idea of the total value of your purchases. Declaring items properly is much less stressful than hoping no one checks.

Stay Connected While You Shop: Why Data Matters in the US

 

US malls are huge, outlet centers are often outside cities, and public Wi‑Fi can be slow or insecure. Having reliable mobile data turns shopping into something much smoother and more efficient.

With data on your phone, you can:

• Use Google Maps to navigate malls, outlet centers, and public transit.
• Download and use store apps (Target, Walmart, Sephora, Best Buy) for digital coupons, store maps, and rewards.
• Check reviews and prices on the spot before buying beauty, tech, or health products.
• Confirm customs rules or airline baggage guidelines in real time.
• Order ride‑hailing (Uber, Lyft) when you’re weighed down with shopping bags.

Real shopping scenarios where mobile data helps:

• Comparing prices mid-aisle: You're at Target looking at a $40 sunscreen. Pull out your phone, check if it's $55 in your home country, and Amazon reviews say it's worth it—bought.
• Digital coupons: Target, Walmart, CVS all have app-exclusive coupons. With data, you can scan items in-store and apply 10-20% off discounts before checkout.
• Translation help: Reading ingredient lists, return policies, or pharmacy labels? Google Translate works instantly with mobile data.
• Store navigation: Mall directories on your phone beat wandering for 20 minutes looking for Sephora.
• Uber/Lyft when hands are full: After three hours in an outlet mall, you're weighed down with bags. Order a ride without hunting for Wi-Fi.

Instead of hunting for a physical SIM card at the airport (where kiosks may be closed or have long lines), a travel eSIM lets you go online as soon as your plane lands. An eSIM is a digital SIM you install on your phone via QR code—no physical card needed. You keep your home SIM active for calls and texts while the eSIM handles US data.

Why eSIM beats other options for shopping trips:

• International Roaming: Roaming can cost $10-15/day with major carriers. A 7-day US eSIM typically costs $15-25 total—saving you $50-80 on a week-long trip.
• Airport SIM cards: Physical SIMs require finding a store (not always easy late at night), standing in line, swapping cards, and potentially losing your primary number. eSIM activates from your hotel room.
• Free Wi-Fi only: Outlet malls, Walmart parking lots, and public transit rarely have strong free Wi-Fi. You can't compare prices, check reviews, or call an Uber when you need it most.

How to set up before you fly:

1. Visit theBitJoy and choose a US eSIM plan (1GB-20GB options)
2. Purchase online—plans start at $4.50, pay with card or crypto
3. Receive QR code via email in 2 minutes
4. Scan code on your iPhone or Android: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM
5. Land in US, turn on phone, instantly connected to AT&T or T-Mobile networks

The BitJoy eSIM plans work across all 50 US states with no surprise charges. Check current US eSIM plans to find the right data amount for your trip length.

With data sorted before you land, you can focus on finding those Levi's jeans at the outlet mall instead of searching for Wi-Fi.

Conclusion – Build Your Own American Shopping Hit List

Your American Shopping Action Plan

America offers incredible variety, but smart shopping beats impulse buying every time. The most popular things to buy in America fall into clear categories: bold snacks and drinks (Reese's, Hot Cheetos, Lucky Charms), drugstore and Sephora beauty finds (CeraVe, Fenty, Drunk Elephant), denim and sneakers (Levi's at outlets, Nike), tech gadgets (iPhones, AirPods when on sale), pharmacy items (vitamins, melatonin), and pop-culture souvenirs (Red Solo cups, sports merch).

Your pre-trip checklist:

1. Make a targeted list: Note 10-15 specific items with target prices. Example: "Levi's 511 under $50," "CeraVe cleanser $15-18," "Reese's share bags for office."

2. Set your budget by category: Decide spending limits before you land—40% fashion, 20% beauty, 20% snacks, 20% flex. Prevents "Target tax" overspending.

3. Sort out mobile data: Get a US travel eSIM from theBitJoy—activate before you fly, connect instantly when you land, use it to compare prices and navigate malls all trip. Plans from $4.50 for 1GB to $35 for 20GB.

4. Know your customs limits: Check your home country's duty-free allowances and food import restrictions. Keep receipts for customs declarations.

5. Pack light going, bring extra bag coming: Consider a foldable duffel in your carry-on for the return trip. Airlines charge $30-50 for checked bags, but if you're bringing home $200 in savings, it's worth it.

With mobile data, a focused list, and realistic expectations, your US shopping trip becomes strategic fun instead of chaotic impulse buying. Every item you unpack at home will be something you actually wanted—at a price that made sense.

FAQs

What are the best things to buy in America as a visitor?

Some of the best things to buy in America include snacks and candy, US breakfast cereals, beauty and skincare, jeans and sneakers, tech gadgets, pharmacy items, and quirky souvenirs like red Solo cups or national park merch. Pick what fits your lifestyle and luggage.

Are American snacks and candy worth bringing home?

Yes, American snacks and candy are popular souvenirs because of unique flavors and brands you can’t easily find abroad. Think Reese’s, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, colorful cereals, and seasonal limited editions. Just check your country’s customs rules on food before packing too much.

Is it cheaper to buy electronics like iPhones or laptops in the US?

It depends on where you're from and what you're buying. Here's the math:

Example: iPhone 16 Pro (128GB)

• US price: $999 + ~8% tax = $1,079
• UK price: £999 (~$1,260)
• India price: ₹134,900 (~$1,600)
• Net savings: 15-30% for UK buyers, 30-40% for Indian buyers

BUT factor in:

• Sales tax varies by state (0% in Oregon/Delaware, 10%+ in some cities)
• Currency conversion fees (1-3% if using credit cards)
• Customs duty in your home country (can be 10-25% in some places)
• Warranty may not work internationally or costs extra to activate globally
• Plug adapters needed for laptops ($10-20)

Bottom line: Apple products and major brand electronics are usually 10-30% cheaper in the US for non-US buyers, even after tax. Savings are real if you're buying 2+ devices or high-value items ($500+). For single small purchases, factor in hassle and warranty limitations.

Use mobile data in-store to check your home country's prices in real-time before committing.

What clothing items are most worth buying in the US?

Travelers often go for Levi’s jeans, sneakers (Nike, New Balance, Converse), sportswear, and college or sports team merch. These are easy to wear daily, widely available in outlet malls, and feel like “American” fashion without taking too much suitcase space.

Which US beauty and skincare products should tourists look for?

Popular picks include CeraVe and Neutrogena skincare, Olay body products, Burt’s Bees lip balms, and Sephora or Ulta exclusives like Supergoop or Fenty minis. Always read ingredient lists, avoid overbuying strong actives, and check if similar products are actually cheaper back home.

Can I bring US medicines and vitamins back to my country?

Often you can, but rules vary by country. Small amounts of common OTC meds and vitamins for personal use are usually fine. Always check your home country’s customs and health regulations, keep items in original packaging, and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if unsure.

What quirky or unique souvenirs can I buy in America?

Fun options include red Solo cups, US sports caps, Route 66 or national park merch, board and card games, city-branded mugs, and motel-style signs. They’re cheap, very “American,” and easy to share with friends or coworkers when you get home.

How much money should I budget for shopping in the US?

It depends on your priorities, but many travelers set a rough category budget, like separate amounts for snacks, fashion, tech, and gifts. Remember US prices usually don’t include sales tax, and outlet malls plus Target or Walmart can tempt you to overspend quickly.

Do I need mobile data or an eSIM for shopping in the US?

Having mobile data helps a lot: you can use maps in huge malls, check product reviews, compare prices, use store apps for coupons, and confirm customs rules. An eSIM lets you activate a US data plan digitally, so you don’t waste time hunting for a physical SIM.

Read more:

Guerneville Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Hotels & Restaurants

Best eSIM for USA Travel 2025: Compare Plans, Coverage & Prices