Puerto Vallarta Airport Security Checkpoint

What to Expect at Puerto Vallarta Airport Security Checkpoint

Security procedures at inspection points vary from country to country, although there are certain similarities. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with these differences and prepare accordingly to ensure your experience at security screening is smooth and without issues, so you don’t have to leave any of your belongings behind. In this section, we provide information on the necessary security measures to make your passage through Puerto Vallarta Airport quick and hassle-free.

Tips for a Quick Airport Security Experience

To help you enjoy a smooth and quick experience at Puerto Vallarta Airport, it’s important to be well-prepared. In this section, we’ll share practical tips tailored specifically for Puerto Vallarta Airport, allowing you to breeze through security and focus on the excitement of your trip. From packing essentials to familiarizing yourself with the airport layout, these insights will ensure your journey is convenient and stress-free.

Avoid Carry-On Bags

Or keep your carry on bag as small as possible.

Pack in Layers

To improve visibility when baggage is scanned.

Prepare your Boarding Pass and ID

To speed up security checks.

Place Laptop in a Bin

All laptops and large PED must be placed in a bin.

Adhere to rule 311

Place liquids, gels, and aerosols < 3.4 oz in a resealable 1Q-sized bag.

Have Prescription Cards Ready

Prescription cards for all medications & syringes.

Restricted Items

Prohibited Items in Carry-On Luggage

Aerosols larger than 100ML. Example: Hairspray, insecticides, spray paint.
Food with liquids or a gelatinous or pasty consistency.
Spray starch. Example: Ironing starch.
Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof, in any quantity.
Corrosive or bleaching agents. Example: Chlorine, mercury.
Dynamite, gunpowder, or plastic explosives.
Screwdrivers.
Blowtorch, electronic, electric arc, or plasma lighters.
Fire extinguishers.
Fertilizers.
Fireworks.
Compressed gas cartridges.
Gels in containers larger than 100ML/3.4Oz. Example: Hair gels, jellies.
Imitation firearms. Example: Toy guns.
Liquids in containers larger than 100ML. Examples: Tequila, coffee, shampoo, body lotion, and contact lens solution.
Internal combustion engines, even if completely drained of fuel. Examples: Lawnmowers, and brush cutters.
Ammunition.
Sharp objects. Example: Swiss Army knives, scissors, knives.
Blunt objects (Example: Baseball bats, hammers, tennis rackets, or other objects that could be used to strike a person). Note: Canes and crutches are allowed.
Glass or ceramic objects. Example: Clay dishes, ceramic crafts.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7.
Solvents. Example: Thinner, turpentine.
Self-defense sprays. Example: Pepper spray.
Candles, including gel candles.

Prohibited Items in Checked Luggage

Spray starch. Example: Ironing starch.
Lithium batteries. Example: Cell phone or laptop batteries.
Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof, in any quantity.
Batteries containing acid. Example: Car batteries.
Electronic cigarettes.
Corrosive or bleaching agents.
Dynamite, gunpowder, or plastic explosives.
Blowtorch, electronic, electric arc, or plasma lighters.
Fire extinguishers.
Fireworks.
Compressed gas cartridges.
Internal combustion engines, even if completely drained of fuel. Example: Lawnmowers and brush cutters.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7.
Solvents. Example: Thinner, turpentine.

FAQ about Puerto Vallarta Airport Security Checkpoint

Is it okay to bring tequila bottles in my carry-on?

No, Mexico follows a rule similar to the TSA 311, meaning you cannot bring any liquids through security that exceed 3.4 oz (100 ml), including tequila and other alcoholic beverages.

Can I take tequila bottles in my luggage?

Yes, but their alcohol content makes them subject to safety regulations, as large amounts can pose a safety risk. According to TSA guidelines, alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but less than 70% alcohol are limited to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger in checked bags and must be in unopened retail packaging. When packing, ensure the bottles are secured to contain any spills in case of breakage, preventing damage to other bags.

Can I bring food through security at Puerto Vallarta Airport?

Yes, as long as it doesn’t have a liquid or paste-like consistency. Items with such consistencies may fall under the 311 rule and could be prohibited.

Are electronic cigarettes allowed through security?

Yes, they are.

Can I bring my pet through security at Puerto Vallarta Airport?

Yes, pets and service animals are allowed through the security checkpoint. Like human passengers, they must go through security screening. Small pets should be carried by the passenger, while service animals and larger pets will need to walk through the metal detector.

Do I need to remove my laptop at the security checkpoint?

Yes, laptops and other personal electronic devices larger than a phone must be removed from your bag and placed in a tray for screening.

Do I need to remove my shoes at the security checkpoint?

No, there is no general rule requiring passengers to remove their shoes during regular screening. However, airport security personnel may request shoe removal if additional screening is necessary.

Is there a fast-track security option at Puerto Vallarta Airport?

Yes, arrival and departure paid fast-track passes are available from different companies.

Are liquids bought after security allowed on the plane?

Yes, but airlines may impose additional restrictions depending on the regulations of your destination country.

Can I bring onboard my duty-free alcohol on my connecting flight?

No. If you purchased alcohol (or any liquid larger than 3.4 oz/100 ml) at your origin and have a layover in Cancun, you must place those liquids in your checked luggage before heading to the gate for your connecting flight. You’ll need to collect your checked luggage in Cancun to clear customs, and this is when you should transfer the liquids. The same rule applies to duty-free liquids purchased in Cancun when flying to the U.S. on an itinerary with a connecting flight; they must be placed in your checked luggage when collected for customs at the first point of entry.

Can I bring souvenirs made of wood, ceramic, or other natural materials?

It depends on the item. While these materials are not outright prohibited, acceptance will depend on their size and shape. Large wooden objects may be considered blunt objects and thus restricted. Similarly, large ceramic items that can break into sharp pieces may also be restricted. Generally, small objects made of these materials do not usually encounter problems at security checkpoints.

When in doubt, it’s advisable to approach the inspection point to inquire before checking your luggage. This way, if the item cannot be transported as part of your carry-on, it can be properly checked in.