First time at Mexico City airport: rules and information

Mexico City International Airport, also known as Benito Juárez International Airport, is the busiest airport in Latin America. It’s a major gateway to Mexico and other Latin American countries. The airport is just a few kilometers from the center of Mexico City and offers many services for travelers. It has two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which handle both domestic and international flights. This makes it an important hub for air travel in the region. Additionally, there are Mexico City airport storage points where you can securely store your luggage, making it easier to explore the airport or even venture into the city if you have some extra time.

If you have a layover and can’t leave the airport, there’s still plenty to do. You can explore shops, eat at restaurants, or use other services to pass the time. You can rest in the terminal, but finding a seat might be tough during busy times.

Mexico City Airport Bag Policy

Types of Bags Allowed

Mexico City Airport follows international rules for carry-on bags. Most airlines allow carry-on bags that are up to 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm and weigh up to 10 kg, but this can vary. Personal items like purses, laptop bags, or small backpacks are also allowed if they fit under the seat in front of you. Make sure your carry-on items meet your airline’s size and weight limits to avoid problems.

Types of Bags Not Allowed

Bags that are too large or heavy must be checked in. Certain items, like firearms, explosives, and sharp objects, are not allowed in carry-on bags. Some unusual items, like sticky tape, measuring tapes, and powders like salt or flour, are also not allowed. If you’re carrying human ashes or organs, you need proper documents. Always check with your airline and the airport’s security rules to make sure your items are allowed.

Mexico City Airport Transportation

Getting to and from Mexico City Airport is easy, with several options available:

Metro

The airport is connected to Line 5 (yellow line) of the Mexico City Metro, with a station near Terminal 1. This is a cheap and fast way to travel, especially if you have light luggage. The metro station is a short walk from the terminal.

Metrobus

Line 4 of the Metrobus connects the airport to different parts of Mexico City, including downtown. The Metrobus is reliable, cheap, and often faster than a taxi during busy times. It provides a direct route to the city center.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Services like Uber are available at the airport. These are convenient if you have heavy luggage or are arriving late at night. The airport has specific pick-up and drop-off points for these services.

Mexico City Airport Camera Policy

You can take personal photos in most areas of Mexico City Airport, like the terminals, shops, and restaurants. But you can’t take photos in security areas, like immigration checkpoints, security screening zones, and customs. This rule protects privacy and keeps the airport secure. You also can’t use professional camera equipment without approval. To avoid issues, keep your photography simple and stay out of restricted areas.

Mexico City Airport Food Policy

There are many places to eat at Mexico City Airport, but there are rules about bringing food through security:

• No outside food or drinks are allowed through security checkpoints.
• Liquids, including drinks and liquid foods, must be in containers of 100 ml or less and in a separate plastic bag. Items that don’t follow these rules must be consumed or thrown away before security.

Inside the terminal, you’ll find restaurants and cafes offering Mexican and international food. Some foods with strong smells might not be allowed in boarding areas. If you bring snacks from outside, follow these rules to avoid problems.

Other Mexico City Airport Rules

Here are some important rules to keep in mind. Smoking is not allowed inside the terminals, but there are smoking lounges in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

For customs, if you bring items like alcohol, tobacco, or large amounts of cash into Mexico, you must declare them. Not declaring can lead to fines or confiscation.

Security checks are thorough. Be ready to remove shoes, belts, jackets, and take out laptops and electronics. To make this faster, wear easy-to-remove shoes and pack your carry-on in an organized way.

Mexico City Lockers

Mexico City is full of culture and history. Even if you’re just passing through, it’s worth exploring the Old Town or trying local foods like escamoles (ant eggs) or barbacoa (slow-cooked goat meat).

To enjoy the city without carrying your bags, use a locker service like Qeepl. You can safely store your luggage for a few hours or days, making it easy to explore the city without any hassle. Online booking and secure protection give you peace of mind while you enjoy Mexico City.

Tips for Travelers

Arrive Early

It’s a good idea to arrive early at Mexico City Airport. The airport is very busy, and lines can be long, especially during peak times. Arrive at least three hours before an international flight and two hours before a domestic flight. This gives you enough time to go through all the procedures without stress.

Explore Cultural Exhibits

While waiting for your flight, take some time to explore the cultural exhibits in the airport. These displays often feature Mexican art, history, and culture, giving you a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. They’re a great way to pass the time and learn something new before your journey continues.