WHAT TO BUY IN THE USA IN 2024 – BEST PRODUCTS AND BRANDS

Are you planning to do some shopping on your next trip? Then check out this post to find out what to buy in the US, including the best products and brands. Discover the best electronics, beauty products, clothes, shoes, home goods, sports gear, and more!

When it comes to the best places to travel to, I usually don't have a straight answer. It depends on the trip's goal, budget, attractions, etc. But when it comes to the best destination for shopping, the US has to take the crown. Sure, there are some exceptions, like European luxury brands, but everything is generally cheaper in the US.

Funny story: I had no idea how cheap everything was when I first visited the country back in 2007, and I came back from my trip to Disney World with some dollars still in my wallet! Crazy, because now I spend the days before my trips researching the best things to buy in the US (and praying a little bit to the luggage gods to not go over the weight limit when it's time to go back home).

Anyway, the truth is that even though everything is cheaper in the US, it's still hard to figure out what to buy. Mainly because if you're from Europe, some things are more affordable, but the price difference isn't that big, and you might be better off spending your money on other products that you can only find in the US.

If you are wondering which products are worth buying in the USA in XNUMX research is the key, but it can be time-consuming. If you want to save time for trip planning, this post is for you. It has all the information you need about the best electronics, beauty products, clothes, baby gear, sports equipment, and more.

NO TIME TO SHOP?

Short on time for shopping? Consider using Amazon.com. They have everything you need and offer fast delivery, especially if you try their free Prime trial. For your convenience, I have provided links to each product on Amazon.

Pro tip: If your hotel charges for online deliveries, you can use the free Amazon Locker service, which is available in many cities across the USA.

WHAT TO BUY IN THE USA IN 2024 – BEST PRODUCTS AND BRANDS 

If you're from Europe, you might not see big savings on prices in the US. However, you can still find deals on American brands and products that are hard to find in Europe. Check out the list at the end of this post for ideas.

<strong>Remember that prices in the US don't include state taxes.</strong>You'll need to add the tax to the listed price, whether you're shopping online or in stores. You can search for the tax rate in a specific state by Googling "<em>name of state + tax</em>", but here are some popular rates: <br><br> <ul><li>New York City - 8,5%</li> <li>Orlando - 6,5%</li> <li>Miami - 7%</li> <li>Los Angeles - 9,5%</li></ul>.

Electronics

By far, the best savings you can make will be in the electronics department, especially if you are from places like South America or Asia. Of course, if you are from Europe, prices won't be that much lower, but you might still be able to save some money.

iPhone 

Probably the most popular thing to buy when you travel abroad, especially if you are from a place where Apple is craaaaazy expensive (Brazil, anyone?!)

Currently the top of the line model is the iPhone 15, which is sold in regular, Plus, Pro and Pro Max versions. Regardless of the version chosen, prices in American stores are practically half the price in official Brazilian stores, even with the dollar soaring. Therefore, if you intend to buy a new iPhone, you should definitely do so abroad.

If you want a simpler model, you can opt for the iPhone SE, whose design is reminiscent of older iPhones. The price difference between Brazil and the United States is not as big as for top-of-the-line models, but you will still be able to save a considerable amount.

SAVE BIG ON APPLE PRODUCTS!

Amazon has a program called "Amazon RenewedAmazon offers a program called "<a href="https://amzn.to/47JgWR4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Renewed</a>," which provides refurbished products at a reduced price. Every item is expertly tested and comes with a 90-day warranty. It's a fantastic way to save money, which is how I purchased my MacBook Pro back in 2018. There, you can find a variety of iPhone models, including the latest ones like the <a href="https://amzn.to/421sMoF" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iPhone 14 Pro</a>. iPhone 14 Pro.

Samsung smartphones

If you are not a big Apple fan you can still save some money opting for Samsung smartphones. You can go either for the Galaxy S24 Ultra, part of the top-of-the-line Galaxy family, or even for the trendy flip phones (Galaxy Z Flip 5) that are aaaaaaall the rage right now on Tik Tok. Again, the difference is not that much if you compare it to the prices in Europe, but you will for sure save on a couple hundred dollars

Huawei cell phones are not yet officially sold in the USA.Xiaomi cell phones can be found in some stores, but when converted, the prices are very similar to those charged in Latin America, where it is still possible to pay in installments.

Mirrorless Cameras

In the past, you needed a DSLR camera to take high-quality photos, but it was inconvenient to carry around. That's no longer an issue with mirrorless cameras, which offer the same quality as DSLRs but are much lighter.

This type of camera is perfect for bloggers, travelers, Instagrammers, and even amateur photographers. I use one for my blog and love the results. The best models come from Sony (like the Alpha 6400 - I use an older model, the Alpha 5000) and Fujifilm (like the X-T200).

If you're from Europe, you might save a little money on a mirrorless camera in the US. If you're from elsewhere, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Professional Cameras

If you use professional cameras, you can save a lot by purchasing your equipment in the United States. Canon models, for example, have an absurd price difference, and I've seen bundles (offers that included the camera, along with memory cards, cables, tripods, etc.) whose price was almost R$10 thousand less abroad than just a camera in Brazil.

The models EOS R and the EOS 7D Mark II They are great choices to save money, especially now that the brand no longer officially sells in Brazilian lands.

Apple Watch 

I should already have given you a heads up: if you are from anywhere else in the world, except an EU country (or the UK), you don't even have to think about if it is worth it to buy an Apple product in the US. The answer is yes. The Apple Watch is no exception, and depending on where you live, you might be able to buy two watches for the price of one in your home country.

The most up-to-date model is the Watch Series 9, launched in October 2023. If you want to save some money, though, you can go for the Watch SE. Apple also launched the "pro" watch model, the Watch Ultra 2, with the most powerful performance yet.

I'll be honest – I never saw the appeal of the Apple Watch until I bought one. Today I love the silent alarm that just vibrates to wake me up (I hate noise in the morning), I find the timer functions and having Siri on my wrist very convenient, and charging is super fast. I was unsure about the investment but it was worth it.

Sales suspended

<br><Br>Sales of current Apple Watch models, Series 9 and Ultra 2, are currently suspended in the United States due to a legal battle regarding the function of measuring blood oxygen levels. It is still possible to buy these models in the rest of the world.

Garmin Forerunner

Now, if you prefer a watch more focused on physical exercise, a Garmin is the ideal option. The Forerunner model is the brand's most popular, with the 945 version being the most robust and complete, while the 45 is perfect for those who want to save money and just check some essential data. 

The top of the line model is the Forerunner 965, while the most basic version is the Forerunner 55. Again, in both cases you can practically buy two watches abroad for the price charged in Brazil. 

Fit Bit

Other SmartWatch more focused on exercise. It is not officially sold in Brazil, which is a shame, as it has great value for money, as well as super stylish models, such as the Fit Bit Charge 6. This watch has the built-in Amazon Alexa assistant, monitors heart rate, sleep quality, controls your music and even has a battery that lasts for 5 days!

iPad

Surprise, lol.If you are a frequent user of tabletsor you want to start using this type of device, know that buying it in the United States can save you hundreds (in fact thousands) of dollars.

Current models vary between iPad PRO, which can be 11 or 12.9 inches, with versions from 128GB to 2TB of memory and M2 processor. O iPad Air, which is a slightly cheaper version, with a 10.9-inch screen, less memory and multiple colors. O “Regular” iPad, with the current 2022 model measuring 10.2 inches, and the iPad Mini, with 8.3 inches and which also gained a new version with several colors in 2021.

Like the Apple Watch, I didn't see much fun in an iPad until I had one. Today I use it for journaling, reading books, creating lists, watching series, and even working instead of my MacBook using the keyboard and the Apple Pencil (which seems redundant, but it transforms the experience of using an iPad).

Macbook

I swear I'm almost done with Apple. The cheapest model is the 13" Macbook Air, 256GB SSD, and 8GB RAM, with Apple's M2 chip. In South America or Asia, you will probably buy it for double the price. I purchased a similar machine in 2011 and sold it in 2019. It still worked and barely had any problems during its 8 years with me!

Already Macbook Pro It is sold in 14 and 16 inch versions, with up to 18GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD memory, and you can buy more powerful customized versions. The processors are the newest version of Apple's own chip, the M3, and you can even choose between the regular and Pro versions. In this case, you will also pay less than half the price charged on Brazilian soil.

Just a quick reminder that this is a high-priced item, and depending on where you live, you might have to declare it to customs. Do the math to be sure it's worth it.

If you don't want an Apple notebook, I also suggest checking out Amazon for other brands. The values ​​for models from Acer and Lenovo are also much lower than the rest of the world.

Mac mini

Apple currently has three desktop computers for sale: the iMac, the Mac Mini and the Mac Studio. The first is not practical to carry in your suitcase, as the computer is built into the monitor. Difficult to ship, difficult to get through customs, and doesn't have the best configurations for the price. The Mac Studio is an incredible machine, but it has a very high price and is only worth it for those who work with videos or have money to spare.

Now, the current versions of the Mac Mini are a great option for those looking for an Apple computer with great configurations for a more friendly price. A base version It has 8GB of RAM, 256GB of SSD and M2 processor, all for just over US500. If you want something more powerful, you can opt for the version with 16GB of RAM, 512GB of SSD and M2 Pro processor. The cool thing is that this computer is super compact and can easily be carried in a handbag.

The Mac Mini M2 Pro was my choice to continue working with videos and blogs, and so far I am very satisfied. The computer can handle an external monitor, keyboard, mouse, microphone, webcam and video editing simultaneously, without getting hot or making noise!

Speakers

The bluetooth speaker is an item that I bought thinking I would barely use it, but I can no longer live without it. I use it to work out, to listen to music in the shower, to listen to podcasts in the kitchen… everything! And as current models are compact and light, you can take them to friends' houses or other environments (not public, please).

The most famous models currently are those from JBL, but at the current price they are practically the same price in the USA and in Latin America, so they are not worth it.If you want to invest in another good brand, however, I recommend Bose, which has great models like the SoundLink Flex Waterproofand SoundLink Micro.

Bluetooth Headphones

For those who like large, wireless headphones, the best choices are the Sony WH-1000XM5and the Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra, which in addition to having excellent quality costs a few hundred reais less abroad.

For smaller versions, my recommendation is a AirPods Pro, which honestly has an exorbitant price even in the USA, but which doesn't even compare to the robbery it is in Latin America, or a Sony WF-1000XM4.

Video game consoles and games

If you are a person who travels a lot, or who likes to play away from home, the best choice is probably a Nintendo Switch. In addition to being a smaller and lighter console than its competitors (in other words, perfect for carrying in your hand luggage), the price is also friendly and does not exceed the electronics quota imposed by customs.

If you prefer to play at home, without a doubt the Playstation 5 is the best choice.

For now, it's also worth bringing the games in your suitcase instead of leaving them to buy here. On Amazon you can find several of them, such as EA Sports FC 24 (yes, FIFA changed its name!) and the Mario Kart. Games for other consoles are worth buying here in Brazil, especially if you don't speak English. Special editions or collectibles, however, are still cheaper abroad. 

Home goods

Don't worry, I'm not talking about household appliances or televisions – these items, despite being much cheaper in the United States, are also difficult (or even impossible) to bring back from a trip. Even so, you can still take advantage of the trip to save on some purchases, such as:

Amazon's Echo 'Alexa'

Transforming your home into a “smart home” is very easy with this Amazon device. With Echo you can ask Alexa to set alarms, play music, add events to your calendar or even items to your shopping list. If you want to go a step further, you can also purchase a smart light bulb to automate your home lighting – they usually work with Alexa and only need Wifi, no other technology. You can invest in the current version, which is the 5th generation Echo, or even the cheaper version, called EchoPop (and it's even prettier, huh?).

Smart “sticks”

I don't know the exact name of these devices, but they are small devices that you connect to the TV to make it smart. The most popular are the Fire TV Stick from Amazon and the chromecast Of google. I have both and I prefer the first because it comes with a remote control, you don't need a cell phone.

Both are sold in Brazil, but prices are better in the USA, but like all other products mentioned in this post, prices are much lower abroad, in addition to there being “premium” versions, in addition to the basic ones.

Robot vacuum cleaner

I still remember watching Breaking Bad and seeing Jesse throw a party, with his vacuum robot cleaning up the mess afterwards. I've wanted one of those robots ever since, and they've only become more popular as the years go on. In the United States, however, you will find thousands of options available at several different price ranges.

The most famous models are those from the iRobot brand (which, despite the name, has no relationship with Apple), ranging from the most basic Roomba 694 until the Roomba i7+ (6550). Other quality brands are Roborock and Shark, which initially has the most powerful model.

NutriBullet Blender

O NutriBullet Initially it was launched as a smaller blender (hence the name “bullet”), with the aim of helping you make the Smoothie Perfect. Due to its great success, and blade system that cuts practically everything, today the brand already sells blenders of different sizes, perfect for any of your culinary needs.

It's a great product option to buy in the United States, because you can save a few hundred bucks compared to the rest of the world. Because it's small, it's also easy to bring in your suitcase!

Smart Scale

What if I told you scales can measure your weight and your fat percentage, BMI, muscle mass, and more? These are known as smart scales, and even though they are new, the US already has countless models with all types of prices. My recommendation is the RENPHO Bluetooth Body Fat Scale. It's an excellent choice because it has an app with all your statistics so you can measure your progress, doesn’t matter if your goal is to lose fat, gain mass or just get healthy in general.

My suggestion is to RENPHO Bluetooth Body Fat Scale. It's super cool because it comes with a app where your measurements are stored, so you can track your progress, regardless of whether your goal is to lose weight, gain mass or “just” improve your health in general.

Beauty

Besides electronics, beauty products are the most worthy category when we talk about what to buy in the USA. Not just because they are cheaper, but also because you can find some brands that are only sold there, and most of them are not only good but also affordable! *score*

The Ordinary

Starting with one of my favorite brands, The Ordinary. If we are honest, you can find it in most countries these days, but usually, it's through resellers (most times not even official stores), and their prices are sky-high. In the USA, though, prices are way lower, and you can buy an entire skincare routine without spending too much. My favorites are the Hyaluronic Acid + B5 (great light moisturizer), the Niacinamide + Zinc (vitamin complex for your skin), and the Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2% (chemical exfoliant). The face oils are also great and go from super light to heavy, so you can find one to suit any skin type. I've used these products for years, and I can say they changed my skin!

In the USA, however, the prices are much lower and you can put together an entire skin care routine without spending a lot. The products are of great quality, and most come in dropper bottles, like homeopathic remedies. My favorites are Hyaluronic Acid with B5 (super moisturizing): Niacinamide + Zinc (vitamin complex for skin) and the Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2% (chemical exfoliant). Facial oils are also great, and range from heavy to light, for all skin types. I use it every day and I can say without a doubt that it has changed my skin!

Here on the blog there is a post explaining which are the best products from The Ordinary.

Drunk Elephant

Another skincare brand, but this one is a little bit on the pricey side. Drunk Elephants uses only non-toxic natural ingredients (especially Marula Oil) to give you healthier glowy skin. The most popular products are the T.L.C Sukari Babyfacial 25% AHA + % BHA Mask (chemical exfoliant), T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum, and the Virgin Marula Antioxidant Face Oil.

You can find the best Drunk Elephant products for your skin in this post!

The brand is super popular nowadays and is having a huge success abroad. It can also be found at Brazilian Sephora, but the prices…

FOREO Luna

Think about an item that all Brazilian bloggers are promoting but that costs ridiculously high here: it's the FOREO cleaning sponge. It works using sonic technology to deeply clean pores, leaving your skin really clean. You won't save so much thus paying the normal price for any of the devices, but if you come across a promotion, it is definitely worth the purchase.

The current models are the Luna 4 and the Luna 4 Go.

Asian Cosmetics

Other products that have gained enormous popularity in recent years are Asian cosmetics, especially those made in South Korea and Japan. The list of recommendations is long, and they are easy to find in the US! My favorites are the COSRX Snail Mucin 96 Essence, the serum Gokujun Premium by Hada Labo and the Round Lab sunscreen.

Here on the blog there is also a complete post with product suggestions for those who want to follow a Korean skin care routine (it's 10 steps!)

Mario Badescu Drying lotion

The number one solution to get rid of pimples. Just dip a cotton swab to the bottom of the packaging (the formula is two-phase) and then apply directly to any visible pimple. The results are surprising and the Drying Lotion It's been one of the brand's best sellers for years!

Remembering that here on the blog I already did a post with the best beauty products to buy in the United States, with tips on products such as moisturizers, soaps, exfoliants, sunscreen and much more!

Shea Moisture

Now for hair products.I have the impression that Shea Moisture is not that well-known outside the US, but it should be since their products are made with excellent ingredients and have an incredible price! In addition, they have a lot of different lines – most of them full of oils and moisturizing factors – and they have options for all types of hair.

I suggest the line Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil and the Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Hair Serum.

Olaplex

<a href="https://amzn.to/3eG5SLr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Olaplex</a> is kind of the new kid on the block when we talk about hair products, but it is already famous and used in hair studios worldwide. Instead of names, their products have numbers, and numbers #1 and #2 are for professional use only. Number #3 is a mix between a mask and a treatment, and it helps strengthen your hair. It has an exclusive technology that can reverse damage caused by chemical treatments, straighteners, hairdryers, and even from the wind and sun! <strong>It's kind of a miracle on a bottle.</strong>

Olaplex #3 is the brand's best-seller (and for a reason - let me tell you that stuff is MAGIC! My hair has never been better!), but you can also try #4 and #5, shampoo and conditioner. Read my full review of Olaplex here!

I have both Nº3 and Nº6 and I use it every time my hair needs help, looks broken or lifeless. The difference is absurd, it looks like I just left the salon!

Dyson Airwrap

I'm going to apologize for recommending a product at that price, and yes, that's what you're reading when you click on the link. Probably one of the most expensive hair products I've ever seen, and also one of the most recommended on the entire internet.

O Dyson Airwrap has a multipurpose proposal. With different tips, you can create curls, give it that salon-style look, or even just dry your hair.. It has a single temperature that is “ideal” for the hair, and a technology that “wraps” the strands around the tip to make the work easier (hence the name Airwrap).

It is a phenomenon on TikTok and has already been copied by several companies, like Shark with its FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System.

Here on the blog there is also a post with the best hair products to buy in the United States, with tips on shampoo, conditioner, masks, sprays and much more!

Makeup

Do not waste your time with brands you can find at any Sephora around the world. Yes, Urban Decay, Too Faced, and Nars are good, but they are not the best, and you can find so many better options in the US.

And, to be honest, these brands are already a little behind compared to the most popular brands at the moment.

Want to invest your money in incredible makeup? Go for Natasha Denona's eyeshadow palettes, skin products from Hourglass (such as the Ambient Light Powder), and get some surreal highlighters from Jouer. Wanna spend all your money on one single brand? Go for Pat McGrath Labs or even Charlotte Tilbury if they don't have it in your country (it has a similar price in Europe, so don't bother with CT if you live there).

Wanna buy incredible but affordable makeup? Try drugstore brands. They are excellent and cheap. Most of my brushes are from e.l.f. The photoFocus line from wet n wild is like magic in a bottle. Wanna go crazy? Just search for Colourpop, they have so many products, and they are all amazing.

Here are some posts you might like if you want to rock your makeup shopping:

• Best makeup to buy in the US [updated 2024]
• 7 cheap makeup brands to buy in the USA
• How to put together a makeup kit in the USA on a budget

Clothes

I think it goes without saying that if you have a trip to Europe planned in the next couple of months, you should not buy from any European brands while in the US. Yes, they are cheap there, but they are even more affordable in Europe, and if you don't live there, you can even get your tax back when going home!

Here are some brands to enjoy in the US:

• Levi's: The famous jeans brand is American, and has an even greater number of models and sizes abroad. My suggestion is to 721 high waist skinny.

• The North Face: perfect for those who are going to face extreme weather conditions or just feel colder than they are used to. Want to get super hot? I suggest to Thermoball. For a jacket that fits all situations, the best option is the Arrowood Triclimate Jacket.

• Guess: another popular brand among Brazilians and which is much cheaper abroad. If you are going to one of the popular destinations – such as Orlando or New York – be sure to visit the outlets where the prices are even better.

• GAP: O sweatshirt with the GAP logo They are a rite of passage for anyone coming to the United States for the first time. No further. (But the brand's jeans and basics are great, too.)

• Polo Ralph Lauren: Yes, the brand is American and therefore has great prices in the USA. The most popular product among Brazilians are classic polo shirts, but you can find other pieces of great quality.

• Tommy Hilfiger: Another store worth checking out the outlets before buying. There are several recommendations, from most basic polo shirts, underwear and even bags and accessories. 

• Calvin Klein: The best investment when talking about brand products is in jeans and in underwear that are limited edition – the classics go on sale in Brazil and the savings are too little to make it worth it.

Some teenage brands that don't sell in Brazil and that are also worth it are Hollister and Abercrombie. For those with a more casual style, American Eagle and Aeropostale are also a good option.

Accessories

Coach

The handbag brand has returned to popularity in recent years, especially due to its celebrity collaborations. Currently the most famous model is the Tabby, which is sold in the version soft (softer) and the firmer version.

Kate Spade

Another accessories brand, Kate Spade is perfect for those who like the girly style, as it uses pastel colors, colorful prints and polka dots. You find bags, wallets, watches, jewelry and other small items that will transform any look from basic to super interesting.

Michael Kors

A favorite among Brazilian women, Michael Kors is the ideal option for those who can invest a little more in quality accessories. The brand not only sells iconic bags, but also wallets, watches, sunglasses and other items that will make your look more elegant.

My suggestions are the clocks, which has a super modern and luxurious design, and the scholarships. If you like monogram prints, the brand has great options!

Backpacks

If you want a backpack for traveling, the recommendation is to go for brands like Osprey e Deuter. Firstly, I recommend Fairview 40L, which is the backpack I use on most of my trips etunder review here on the blog. It can be found in Brazil on sites like Netshoes, but prices are much higher than abroad.

If you want more casual backpacks, you can bet on models from Adidas ou North Face.

What isn't really worth it when we are talking about accessories? From my research, I found out that expensive sunglasses tend to be costly everywhere, including in the US. The price difference from other American countries is not that big, much less in Europe.

A quick reminder that luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, etc., are cheaper than in most places, but they are more expensive if you compare it to European prices, especially since you get your VAT back when shopping in Europe at the end of your trip.

Sports

This for me is the most difficult category, as the answer to the question “is it worth it” varies a lot between brands and pieces. 

I will say that in general, training shoes are cheaper in the US, especially if you are not looking for the latest models. You can find Nike, Adidas, and even Asics for less than US$100, sometimes even less than US$50. When we talk about the current models, though, I don't see much difference between prices in the US and the rest of the world. They are expensive everywhere.

If you are actually into collecting kicks, you will find the most different and exclusive models in the USA, and even if they are not cheap, they probably will be worth it for you. For workout clothes, I honestly think the prices for Nike, Adidas, etc., are insane and only recommend you buy them from outlets or discounted stores such as TJ Maxx or ROSS. If you are into Lululemon, though, you should definitely buy it in the states.

Otherwise, I only found good value for workout clothes in stores like TJMaxx or ROSS, which are at the top end of the stock. Leggins from Nike and Adidas, for example, I've found cheaper in Brazil when compared to the price in American stores.

Honestly, when it comes to working out, I recommend going to the outlets, going into brand stores and looking for promotions. I always take sneakers (I google the models that are available to see which ones are good) and, sometimes, one or two pieces that are discounted on the day.

Vitamins e Supplements

<strong>I have never found another country that is so into vitamins as the United States</strong>. They have isles and isles of vitamins in Walmart, it's kind of impressive. Of course, you can really save money on any type of vitamin, but here are some of the best:

• Centerm: A Centrum multivitamin with 200 capsules in the US is the same price as the 30 capsules anywhere else. Do I need to say more?

• Vitamine D: Most brands sell it at 2000, 10000, and 50000 IU, and they are all super cheap. If you regularly take Vitamin D supplements, you should definitely stock some of them on your trip.

• Cranberry: Not insanely cheap, but if you compare to prices in Latin America, it's almost half of what you pay over there.

• melatonin: The ideal supplement for those who suffer from insomnia, trouble sleeping or even jet lag.

• Whey protein: Quality whey protein is not cheap, but it's certainly more affordable in the US. If you are planning to buy some protein powder, I recommend you save some space in your suitcase, especially because the bigger the package, the bigger the saving. Don't know the brands? Go for Optimum Nutrition. Optimum Nutrition's Whey Protein, for example, is a great option.

• Creatine: One of the supplements with the largest number of studies proving its benefits, you can also save when buying creatine in the USA. Again, Optimum Nutrition has a great option, but you can also enjoy other brands.

Toys

Is it really a trip if you don't buy toys for your kids or your relatives? Nah. When we talk about what to buy in the USA, toys are on the top of the list, and the popular ones are really cheap in the land of freedom.

LOL Dolls

Ok, listen – I had no idea what a LOL was until I read all those posts from parents asking where on earth to find these cause they were sold out everywhere. So if you are like me and have no clue what they are, they are just tiny dolls, and the fun part is that when you buy yours, you actually don't know which doll you are getting.

Even though you can find LOL dolls in other countries, you can find different themes and kits in the US, so you have way more options there.

LEGO

LEGO is a toy for all ages, let's be honest. <strong>Is it worth it to buy the regular sets with some blocks to play around with? </strong>Maybe, it depends on the number of blocks you choose. <strong>But is it worth it to buy the special sets? </strong>Absolutely. 

I recommend you try the Hogwarts Castle set if you are a Harry Potter fan, the Millennium Falcon if you are into Star Wars, or even the Coliseum with more than 9000 pieces (it was at some point the most giant set in the world).

Also, if you happen to see a LEGO store, especially in New York or at Walt Disney World, don't forget to go inside! They have some crazy sculptures (made of LEGO, obviously).

Slime Kit

The fact that Nickelodeon was finally able to get the Slime to stick… priceless. If your kids, nephews, or any kid in your life in general likes to play with Slime, then you have already found the perfect gift. Besides the different types of slimes, like this galaxy one, you can also find huge DIY kits, so they can "create" their own slime (don't worry, it's just different colors of slimes and "toppings" for them to embellish it).

I compared it to the kits in Brazil and in our country they are much more expensive and have much fewer options for decorations. 

Funko Pop

I am not sure Funko Pop qualifies as a toy since it's basically collectibles and decoration, but hey, here they are. Again, it's almost the same price in Europe, but waaaay cheaper if you are from anywhere else. I remember my cousin being so shocked with the prices that on our last trip to Disney World, she took 7 Funko Pop home.

There are so many different characters that it's hard to suggest which ones are the best, but I love the Disney ones, all the different versions of Marvel's heroes, the super cute pokemon, and the ones from TV shows, such as Friends.

Baby things

Last but definitely not least, baby stuff. This category is so cheap in the USA that many bloggers and famous people take a trip abroad just to shop for all their baby essentials. So not only can you save some money, but you have so many good options to choose from!

Baby strollers

Starting with one of the best sellers in the category: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller. It's super easy to fold and store, it's light, its wheels are game for any kind of terrain, and it has a handlebar brake. It can't really get better than that.

If you want a more affordable option, go with the Graco Modes Pramette Stroller. It has different ride options, and you can also use it as a car seat for your infant. It also has a kid and an adult tray for your comfort, different reclining positions, and you can let your baby face you or forward.

Car seat

Graco's 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat is the best choice for a car seat cause it keeps up with the child's growth. You can use it for when your kid is an infant and needs the seat facing the rear of the car until they grow and can use it facing forward. It also connects with the car seat belt, and you can even use it as a booster.

In Brazil, prices for these long-lasting Graco models appear on Mercado Livre from R$2500 and can reach up to R$12000!

Baby Monitor

Infant Optics DXR-8 has already won several prizes in the baby monitor category, and it's perfect for those who want to keep an eye on their kids at all times since it has zoom and tilt functions. In addition, it's super light, so you can take it with you through your house with no hassles, and it has an FHSS connection, which means it doesn't go through the internet.

In Brazil, these types of monitors (or baby monitors) cost around R$1000, R$1400 in the case of this specific model.

Kangaroo

The LILLEbaby carrier allows you to carry your child in 6 different ergonomic styles, with straps that will enable you to use it in front of you or in a backpack style. It is also made of a breathable mesh, so you don't even have to worry about your infant's temperature. The perfect product for those who want a comfortable, stylish option to carry their baby.

Bottle sterilizer

An electric sterilizer that does all the work for you, so you can spend more time with your child instead of cleaning bottles. Dr. Brown's Electric Steam Sterilizer can be used for bottle parts and for nipples and even pacifiers. It uses steam to sterilize everything, and its design makes it easier to clean two bottles simultaneously.

Rocker Chair

Lastly, the cheapest item in the baby category, the Fisher Price Infant to Toddler Rocker Chair. It holds even bigger toddlers (up to 40lb/18kg), it reclines, and it even has two different vibration speeds to help soothe your baby. In addition, the fabric part can be thrown in the washing machine in case of any accidents, and the toy bar is removable.

What to buy in the USA – list of WHAT’S WORTH

No time to analyze all the products mentioned in this post? No problem, here's a list of what's really worth buying in the USA, so you can make the best decisions during your trip:

• iPhone
• Apple products in general
• Electronics in general
• Cosmetics (makeup, skin creams, hair creams, perfumes)
• Supplements
• Vitamins
• Brand Clothing (The North Face, Guess, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Abercrombie, Hollister, Levi's, GAP, Calvin Klein, etc.)
• Accessories (Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors)
• Sneakers and Workout Clothes (only in outlets or stock outlets)
• Funko POP
• Baby layette

By following this list you will definitely make good purchases!

What's not worth buying in the US?

I already mentioned some products that are not worth buying in the US. Most of them have a low price difference compared to other countries, and then it makes no sense for you to spend your money on it. So instead, save to buy these items back home and buy other things on your trip.

• Sunglasses (brand) Sunglass Hut has almost the same price worldwide, especially in big brand names such as Ray Ban.
• Latest sneaker releases - The models CURRENT Not that much of a difference between prices in the US and other places. The older models are dirt cheap and more than worth it if you can go to outlets, though.
• Workout clothes – Especially if it's from Nike, Adidas, etc. Again, it's only worth it in outlets or in out-of-stock stores, like ROSS.
• Luxury Brands – most of them are European, which means they are cheaper in Europe, and there you also get tax back so you can save even more!

As you can see, there are few cases in which it is not worth buying something in the United States.

Is it worth buying from the duty-free shop?

NO! Do not confuse “shopping in the United States” with shopping in freeshop, even if you are thinking about duty free shops that are located at airports within the USA.

The prices charged by these stores are much higher than in stores within the country, and it's only worth buying something if you forgot a gift or couldn't find such a product anywhere else.

Phew, that's it! A complete list of what to buy in the USA, with tips on the best products in different categories! As you can see, it is possible to save a lot when it comes to shopping on the trip, lol.

Do you think there was something missing from this list? Leave it in the comments!

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