Prohibited Items

What you can carry with you, what you should pack in your checked baggage and what you should leave at home.

Due to increasingly strict security measures, there are some items you cannot carry in the aircraft cabin. Some items may be restricted by the airline and others by the airport. In the first case, even if you get them through the security checkpoint, you will not be able to board with them if you are selected for a secondary inspection at the boarding gate. This is common on flights to the United States, where airlines must comply with the security measures set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

In the second case, it is the airport, following the regulations of the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (the authority that regulates civil aviation in Mexico), that restricts certain items at the passenger security checkpoint. This is why airports throughout the country do not allow sharp objects, liquids, gels or aerosols, regardless of the destination or airline. Airports may also apply measures stricter than the federal rules; at Guadalajara Airport, for example, tennis rackets are not allowed through the checkpoint because they are considered blunt objects, as is the case with baseball bats.

Some items that are not allowed in the passenger cabin are allowed in checked baggage. Below is a list of the most common restricted items. Please note that this list does not include all restricted items; it is always advisable to confirm with the airline you are flying with.

Frequently asked questions about restricted items

Can I bring tequila?

Yes. Like any liquid, it is subject to the 100 ml limit if you want to carry it in your carry-on baggage. This restriction does not apply to moderate quantities carried in checked baggage.

If you are traveling to the United States, remember that each passenger aged 21 or older may bring in only one liter of alcohol. If you are traveling to other countries, we recommend checking the page

Make sure to pack your bottles well so they do not break and wet your belongings or other bags.

Can I bring medicines?

Yes. If they are controlled medicines, carry the prescription with you. Over-the-counter medicines are also allowed. We recommend always carrying medicines in your carry-on baggage so you are not left without them if your checked baggage is lost.

Can I bring prepared food?

Yes. Food that is liquid or has a gel-like, paste-like or similar consistency must go in your checked baggage.

Keep in mind that, for health reasons, some countries restrict the entry of certain foods. It is always advisable to declare food to the health or customs officer in the destination country to avoid fines.

Can I bring fruits or vegetables?

Yes, you can carry them in both checked and carry-on baggage.

As with animal products, if you are traveling abroad keep in mind that most countries prohibit the entry of raw or dried fruits and vegetables. However, you may bring them to eat during the flight. Canned fruits and vegetables are generally not restricted, but they must be declared.

It is always advisable to check with the health or customs authorities of the destination country to avoid fines.