Cancun airport ends fine for multiple personal computing devices

Home
»
Stories
»
2024
»
October

GLOBAL INDUSTRY NEWS

Global Industry News

Cancun airport ends fine for multiple personal computing devices

Research

David Slotnick Senior aviation business reporter | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Oct 15, 2024

Last month, a growing number of travelers were caught off guard by a Mexican customs rule that limits travelers to one portable computing device each. This rule considers both laptops and tablets as personal computing devices. However, travelers can bring up to two cellphones.

Although the regulation is not new, enforcement has increased recently, leading to public dissatisfaction. Travelers have used social media and other platforms to voice their concerns, prompting news coverage.

One traveler, Karen Bishop, shared her experience of paying approximately $100 at Cancun International Airport because she and her husband had each brought a laptop and an iPad on their trip.

Get the Newsletter

Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News

By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

On October 11, Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama announced that Cancun International Airport would stop enforcing this "very old regulation," describing it as outdated. In a Facebook video, Lezama stated that the rule "has harmed the destination's reputation and caused discomfort and inconvenience to our visitors." After discussions with the National Customs Agency of Mexico, it was decided to remove this charge for all travelers.

Lezama emphasized that "tourism is vital for Quintana Roo" and efforts are ongoing to improve visitor experiences.

This change takes effect immediately. Previously, passengers at Cancun International Airport could be charged 19% of the value of items exceeding permitted quantities. Besides personal electronics like laptops and tablets, cameras, cellphones, and GPS devices also have quantity restrictions under Mexican customs regulations.

Travelers should remember that they must complete an Official Entry Immigration Form when entering Mexico. This form is free and can be completed online before traveling. Additionally, some regions require tourists to pay a visitor tax which can also be paid online in advance.

The updated baggage rules currently apply only in Quintana Roo; other airports in Mexico may still enforce fines for excess personal computing devices through customs.

###