Originally Posted by
David-A
Just to post a clarification:
The liquids check is made when you pass through security into the departure lounge area.
You are free to buy liquids there before boarding.
I post this clarification because there are some airports (TXL springs to mind) where security happens at the gate, hence there is no real shopping oportunity in the security cleared area for many flights.
Where security checks are conducted at the gate (this applies, for example, in AMS for many non-Schengen flights), in most cases the salespeople in the passenger-only area will place liquid purchases in a sealed tamper-proof bag, which can then be taken through security and on board.