Last month, TPG reported on a growing number of travelers who inadvertently broke a Mexican customs rule that only allows one portable computing device per traveler. According to the regulation, both laptops and tablets are considered personal computing devices. (You can also bring up to two cellphones.)

The rule is not new, but enforcement — along with public outcry — is on the rise. Travelers have taken to social media (and the TPG Tips Inbox) to draw attention to the situation, which has led to coverage by several news outlets.

Karen Bishop, a TPG reader, was forced to pay nearly $100 before she could clear customs at Cancun International Airport (CUN) during a recent visit because she and her husband each packed a laptop and iPad for their trip.

D3SIGN/GETTY IMAGES

On October 11, Quintana Roo Gov. Mara Lezama announced that Cancun International Airport was removing what she described as a “very old regulation” that “doesn’t fit the times we live in.”

This announcement was made by Facebook video. In the video, Lezama said the regulation “damaged the reputation of the destination and caused discomfort and inconvenience to our visitors.” After meeting with Mexico’s National Customs Agency, Quintana Roo (the state where Cancun is located) decided to “remove this charge for national and international tourists”.

Lezama went on to say that “tourism is important to Quintana Roo” and efforts are underway to continually improve how tourists are served.

Daily newsletter

Reward your inbox with the TPG Daily Newsletter

Join over 700,000 readers for the latest news, in-depth guides and exclusive deals from TPG’s experts

Roberto Moyola/Cysoworld/Getty Images

This change is effective immediately. Prior to the change, passengers traveling through Cancun International Airport could be charged 19% of the value of the contraband, as determined by the customs officer.

Personal electronics aren’t the only items subject to penalties under Mexican customs regulations. There are many items that have a quantity limit per traveler when traveling to Mexico – including cameras, cellphones and GPS devices. You can see the full list here.

Remember that travelers to Mexico must also fill out an official entry immigration form, also known as a tourist card. This card is free, and you can Apply online Before your trip to save time on arrival. Tourists are required to pay in some regions, including Quintana Roo Visitor tax. You can save time at the airport by paying your taxes online before leaving for your trip.

Changes to Mexico’s personal baggage rules currently only apply to Quintana Roo. Travelers flying to other airports in Mexico may still be subject to fines if they bring more than one personal computing device through customs.

If you’re traveling to Cancun, however, you can now clear customs with multiple personal computing devices.

Related Reading:

Leave a Comment