Every traveler knows what it’s like to arrive at a vacation destination ready to get the festivities underway. The anticipation builds with every minute that passes on your flight, only to arrive and then get held up much too long in the airport. This has recently been the case in Los Cabos when tourists are faced with long lines, some reports say over an hour long, at Los Cabos Airport due to a lack of immigration staff. How can you mitigate the wait on arrival?
Navigating the Long Immigration Line at Cabo Airport: VIP Benefits and Tips
Eager to start enjoying your trip? Sometimes, the fun gets delayed when you face long lines at the airport. Recently, this has been a problem at Los Cabos Airport, where some tourists have had to wait over an hour due to a shortage of immigration staff. Luckily, the Cabo Airport Concierge Service can help you breeze through these long lines and start your vacation sooner.
Should You Be Worried about a long Immigration line?
If you’ll be traveling to Los Cabos soon, you might be concerned about how the staff shortage in the immigration line will affect your trip. The answer depends on a couple of factors:
the time of the year that you’ll be coming to Cabo
Los Cabos no longer participates in “Spring Forward / Fall-Back. If you are traveling from the east coast of the US, there is a 3-hour difference, while if you are traveling from California, there is a 1-hour time difference
specifically on what day you’ll be arriving and the time of your arrival. Here, again, if you are arriving at 9/10 am chances are you’ll be one of the first arriving planes. Once deplaned, you’ll be one of the first travelers into the Immigration area; the first place you enter on arrival in Cabo
if you arrive after 11 am until about 3 pm, anticipate a longer wait in immigration, luggage, and customs (be aware of the import taxes!)
Weekends, particularly Saturdays, and holidays tend to be busier, so you may see longer lines on these days
Mid-week is typically less busy (unless it’s February-April: full-on Spring Break Cabo Time!)
Afternoons tend to be busier, so if you have a morning flight, you might get lucky.
Immigration Delays at SJD Airport
Using The Los Cabos Airport VIP Fast Track Service
Navigating the long immigration line at Cabo Airport can be tough, especially during busy times. Los Cabos Airport has a VIP concierge service that helps you quickly navigate the airport. The paid concierge service makes it easy and stress-free, very helpful for those with kids or mobility challenges.
The Cabo Airport VIP Service helps you pass immigration quickly, assists with luggage using priority lanes, and provides personal assistance. Sadly Mexican Customs does not permit third-party assistance or expedition through the customs line. However, with the VIP service, you can skip the long lines and save time when you arrive. Did you know that travelers who use VIP services typically reduce their wait time by up to 50%? It’s like having a fast lane just for you.
Yes, there are VIP services available at Cabo Airport, but limited. These services, which are often popular at most major US and International Airports are not available at the Cabo Airport (boo). What is available? The VIP Lounge inside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 – can be pre-booked, so when you get to the airport, you’ll have a reservation. It’s helpful because most international flights depart between 12-5 pm and that is when the VIP lounge is most busy. Reserve in advance and you’re guaranteed a seat.
While it is a Priority Pass VIP Lounge, it also participates in several other credit card programs. Platinum American Express cardholders, for example, can also typically enjoy the lounge’s benefits (check with your credit card beforehand).
Access to VIP Lounges: Relax in comfortable lounges with complimentary drinks and snacks while waiting for your flight or transportation. Nice clean and spacious bathrooms as well!
Priority Transportation: Arrange for private transportation to and from the airport, ensuring a seamless transition to your destination.
Cabo Airport Tips for Arrival
VIP services are super-useful during peak travel times. But a little know tip: if you need assistance like a wheelchair transfer inside make sure to call your airline before your trip. Each airline has a “Accommodation of Passengers with Disabilities” policy.
Airlines are required to provide necessary accommodations to passengers with disabilities. This includes assistance with boarding, deplaning, and connecting flights providing accessible seating and services. Use it to your benefit if necessary.
Have Everything Ready
While there’s nothing you can do about the staff shortages, being prepared can help you get through the line quickly when it’s your turn. Make sure your passport, immigration forms, and other travel papers are filled out and easy to reach. Using electronic kiosks for customs forms where available can also speed up your process.
Reserve Transportation In Advance
The last thing you want to do after waiting in a long immigration line is wait even longer for transportation. Booking transportation in advance allows you to avoid this problem. Once out of the airport they’ll have your driver waiting for you, which is a huge timesaver. If you book your transportation in advance, communicate with your provider. Let them know if you’ll be stuck in line for a while, and they might give you a heads-up about any delays outside of the airport. Have their contact information easily accessible.
Recheck Hotel or Airbnb Reservation
If you’ll be at the airport longer than expected, contact your hotel or Airbnb host to avoid losing your reservation. This is especially important if you’ll be arriving later in the day. For Airbnb stays, it’s crucial to coordinate with your host, especially if you have a specific time set to meet. If you are going directly to a restaurant in Los Cabos, ensure they know you are confirmed.
Alternative Options for Speeding Up Immigration
Besides the Los Cabos Airport VIP Fast Track Service, you can explore other trusted traveler programs like Global Entry. The Global Entry program of the United States is not applicable in Mexico; however, Mexico has its trusted traveler program, Viajero Confiable, which you can apply for.
What to Expect After Clearing Immigration
After immigration, proceed to baggage claim, where VIP staff can assist with your bags. Next, navigate through customs quickly with the help of the VIP service. Once you’ve cleared customs, choose from various transportation options to reach your final destination.
Cabo Airport VIP FAQs
Q: What is the Los Cabos Airport VIP Fast Track Service?
A: The Los Cabos Airport VIP Fast Track Service helps you get through immigration and customs faster by using priority lanes and providing personal assistance.
Q: How much time can I save with the VIP Fast Track Service?
A: Travelers who use the VIP Fast Track Service can reduce their wait time by up to 50%, making it much faster and easier to get through immigration.
Q: How do I book the VIP Fast Track Service?
A: You can book the VIP Fast Track Service online through the Cabo airport’s website or by contacting the service provider directly.
Q: Is the VIP Fast Track Service worth the cost?
A: Many travelers find the VIP Fast Track Service worth the cost because it saves time and reduces stress, especially during peak travel times. Make sure to plan your VIP service at least 3-5 days in advance.
Q: Can families use the VIP Fast Track Service?
A: Yes, the VIP Fast Track Service is available for families, making it easier for everyone to get through immigration and customs quickly. The VIP service to help with long immigration lines at Cabo Airport can help with the stress levels when traveling with family.
