Lois Larson
Whether you're mailing a letter or sending a postcard, postage stamps are a requirement. While some countries' airports have stamp vending machines and mailboxes, others do not. In the US, for example, it seems that most airports do not have post offices, with the exception of PIT. In Europe, however, it seems that it is more common to find stamps at the airport, as one traveller was able to purchase stamps at Paris' CDG airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you buy stamps at the airport? | It depends on the airport. Some travellers have reported being able to buy stamps at airports in the EU, Sri Lanka, and Hawaii. However, others have reported difficulty finding stamps at US airports. |
| Where in the airport can stamps be purchased? | Stamps can sometimes be purchased at post offices, vending machines, ATMs, and stores that sell postcards. |
| Cost | The cost of stamps varies depending on location and the type of stamp purchased. |
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What You'll Learn
Stamps at specific airports
While it is unclear whether stamps can be purchased at most US airports, there are reports that they can be bought at specific airports. For example, at the DFW airport, there is a stamp vending machine and a mailbox in Terminal D. There is also a full-service US Post Office at the PIT airport, where you can purchase stamps, mail documents/packages, and purchase money orders. Additionally, some stores that sell postcards might also sell stamps, but this can be inconsistent.
For those travelling through Paris, it seems that you can purchase stamps from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to mail Christmas cards to the US. There are two post offices in Terminal 1, one on the Boutique level and one on the Transfer level, and two post offices in Terminal 2, Hall C on the departure level, one opposite Gate 7 and one behind the bathrooms opposite Gate 7.
Some US airports, such as MSP, BNA, and DTW, do offer postal services, but it is unclear whether stamps can be purchased at these locations.
If you are looking to purchase stamps at a specific airport, it may be helpful to check the airport's website or contact their customer service to inquire about the availability of stamps.
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Stamp-selling shops at airports
It can be a challenge to find stamps at airports, especially in the United States. Some sources suggest that US airports rarely have post offices, with the exception of Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), which has a full-service US Post Office airside. However, some stores that sell postcards may also sell stamps, but this can be inconsistent.
At some airports, you may find stamp vending machines and mailboxes, such as in Terminal D at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Additionally, several ATM machines at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), owned by Chevy Chase Bank, sell small sheets of stamps at face value.
If you're travelling through Europe, you may have better luck. For example, Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) has multiple post offices across Terminals 1 and 2, where you can purchase stamps.
For those travelling to Sri Lanka, it is recommended to buy postcards and stamps at the airport or at a post office, with postcards costing Rs 25 and stamps Rs 25 or more.
In some cases, you may find stamps at business centres or neighbouring shops at the airport, such as at an airport in Oahu, Hawaii, where a business centre in the main lobby and a neighbouring Shell and Jewellery store sell stamps.
It's always a good idea to check with the specific airport or your airline for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the availability of stamps and postal services.
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Postcard and stamp costs
While it is possible to buy postcards and stamps at some airports, availability varies. Some travellers have reported being able to buy postcards and stamps at their departure airport, while others have been unable to do so. It seems that some shops that sell postcards may also sell stamps, but this is not guaranteed.
At CDG Airport in Paris, for example, there are post offices in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 where you can buy stamps. Stamps at this airport were sold at a premium rate. At Sri Lankan airports, postcards cost Rs 25 and stamps cost Rs 25 or more.
Some US airports, such as ORD and DFW, do not have post offices or stamp-selling facilities. However, there are some US airports that do offer postal services, including MSP, BNA, and DTW. Additionally, the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) has a full-service US Post Office.
If you are unable to find stamps at the airport, you can try purchasing them at your destination or look for a post office nearby. Alternatively, some ATMs and vending machines at airports may sell small sheets of stamps.
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Sending stamps from abroad
Sending postcards from abroad is a great way to keep in touch with friends and family, but it can be tricky to find stamps. While it's possible to buy stamps at some airports, the availability varies depending on the country and specific airport. For example, CDG Airport in Paris has post offices in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 where you can purchase stamps. On the other hand, some travellers have reported being unable to find stamps at ORD and DFW airports in the US.
In the case that your departing airport doesn't sell stamps, you can try the following options:
- Buy before you fly: If you know you want to send postcards, purchase stamps before you get to the airport. That way, you can pop your postcards in the mail on your way to the airport or ask your driver to stop by a post office en route.
- Check airport shops: Some airport shops that sell postcards may also stock stamps. However, this can be hit or miss, as shops may stop selling stamps if they don't get enough requests.
- Use a stamp vending machine: Certain airports, like DFW, have stamp vending machines located in specific terminals. These machines offer a convenient way to buy stamps without having to locate a post office or shop.
- Visit a post office: If you have time during a layover or before your departure, locate a post office near the airport. For example, MSP Airport in the US has postal services in the Lindbergh terminal, and BNA has postal services on the baggage claim level.
- Buy online: If you're running short on time, some countries may allow you to purchase stamps online and print them from the convenience of your home or hotel.
Remember that postage rates can vary depending on the country you're mailing to, so be prepared for the cost of stamps to be higher than what you might pay domestically. Additionally, consider the potential for theft, especially with international mail, and explore options like registered mail or imprints at the post office counter to reduce the risk.
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Stamp availability in the US
In the US, stamp availability varies across airports. Some travellers have reported being able to purchase stamps from vending machines or full-service US Post Offices within airports. However, others have noted that certain airports do not sell stamps at all.
For example, at DFW Airport in Texas, there is a stamp vending machine and a mailbox in Terminal D. Additionally, there are reports of a full-service US Post Office at PIT airport. At ORD airport, some travellers have been unable to find stamps, while others have succeeded in purchasing them.
Stores that sell postcards may also sell stamps, but this is not guaranteed, especially if there is low demand. ATMs owned by certain banks may also sell small sheets of stamps.
When mailing items from US airports, it is important to note that postboxes may only accept letters and postcards, not parcels. Additionally, mailed items may be inspected by customs officials.
Regarding passport entry stamps, many US airports have discontinued this practice. Instead, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) creates an online, electronic entry record called the I-94 record, which serves as the official record of entry into the US.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airport. Some airports, such as CDG Airport in Paris, have post offices or stamp vending machines where you can buy stamps. However, at other airports, such as ORD and DFW, travellers have reported being unable to find stamps.
If the airport has a post office, that's your best bet. Some airports, like CDG, have multiple post offices in different terminals. You might also find stamp vending machines or ATMs that sell stamps. Stores that sell postcards sometimes sell stamps, but this can be hit or miss.
Yes, if you can't find stamps at the airport, you can always buy them at a post office in your destination country.
