For high-net-worth travelers, shopping abroad isn’t about souvenirs—it’s about access. Once income reaches a certain level, global travel becomes a gateway to rare, location-specific luxury goods that can’t be replicated online or at home.
A January 2026 report by MyCross reveals that the world’s wealthiest consumers are prioritizing exclusivity, craftsmanship, and prestige when they shop internationally. From custom jewelry to rare collectibles, these purchases are less about spending—and more about securing something few others can own.
Custom-made jewelry tops the list, with New York City standing out as a major destination. Elite buyers frequent high-profile designers like Spinelli Kilcollin and Lorraine Schwartz for one-of-a-kind diamond creations. Meanwhile, Dubai has become a hotspot for more contemporary luxury, with shoppers gravitating toward Messika and the famed Dubai Gold Souk. Prices typically range from $5,000 to $50,000.
Handbags remain another cornerstone of luxury travel shopping. Paris draws wealthy buyers seeking the elusive Hermès Birkin, while Milan attracts those hunting exclusive releases from Gucci and Prada. In Tokyo, luxury shoppers pursue Japan-only drops from LVMH brands. These items can range anywhere from $1,500 to well over $150,000.
Timepieces are another major investment category. Geneva and Zurich serve as global hubs for high-end watches, with iconic names like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet leading the market. Prices can climb into the millions for rare or limited-edition pieces.
Collectors are also traveling for rare antiques and artwork. Vienna and Paris are known for European furniture and fine art, while Rome and London specialize in religious antiques and historic artifacts. These items can command prices from $10,000 to an astonishing $500 million.
Even food is elevated to luxury status. Wealthy travelers flock to Marrakech, India’s Kashmir, and Italy’s Piedmont for rare spices and gourmet ingredients like saffron and white truffles.
Ultimately, luxury travel shopping is no longer about indulgence alone—it’s about acquiring pieces of the world that reflect status, taste, and access.