Logotype
Back

The Cross Border Xpress: Travel Hacking Mexico

Travel2 years ago
Passport laying on a table

Introduction

Tijuana Airport is not the only place that has customs and immigration requirements. If you're traveling to or from Tijuana Airport, it doesn't have to be a hassle! With the Cross Border Express, you can simply walk or take a short shuttle ride across the border into the United States. We'll show you how to make the most of your time by flying out of Tijuana Airport in this post!

 

What is the Cross Border Xpress?

The Cross Border Express is a simple travel method that lets you fly straight from Tijuana Airport to San Diego Airport—and bypasses having to go through customs or immigration. This works because the airports are located in different countries.

Tijuana Airport has a sky bridge crossing the US-Mexico border via the Cross Border Xpress terminal. There will be both Mexican and US immigration booths within this terminal, which is why it's called a "Tramite" in Spanish.

 

How to Use the Cross Border Xpress

If you're flying out of Tijuana Airport, the best way to get to your flight is by using the Cross Border Express. You can either drive yourself to the border crossing and park in the Cross Border Xpress parking lot or take a shuttle from your hotel.

Once you're at the border crossing, you'll need to show your passport and boarding pass to the Mexican immigration officer. They will stamp your passport and let you through

All you have to do is buy a ticket for a flight between Tijuana and San Diego, then take the Cross Border Express shuttle from Tijuana's airport down to San Diego's airport. The whole thing takes around two hours, but it ends up being much cheaper than other cross-city options.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Experienced Users

Intro offer

80,000 Points

Annual Fee

$695.00

Recommended Credit

690-850GoodExcellent

80,000 Points

AE Platinum.png

The Cross Border Xpress, or CBX for short, is a travel hack that can save you a lot of time and money when flying from Tijuana Airport. Here's how it works:

  • Check the schedule for the CBX shuttle bus. The bus runs every 30 minutes from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm and costs $11 per person.
  • Purchase your ticket online in advance. You'll need to show your passport at the ticket counter, but otherwise, this step can be done entirely online.
  • Check-in for your flight in the terminal on the US side of the border.

Before you reach the CBX and enter Tijuana, be sure to have your documents ready. These include your CBX ticket, passport, immigration form and boarding pass. Without these forms in hand, you will not gain entry into Tijuana.

 

Tips for Traveling through the Cross Border Express

Have your passport and boarding pass in hand before reaching the head of the line. If you're prepared, the security procedure goes quickly.

  1. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times. Tijuana is a lively metropolis, and it's easy to lose sight of your things in the commotion.
  2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. You'll be doing a lot of walking, and you want to be comfortable while you're doing it.
  3. Stay hydrated. The heat can be intense, especially in the summer months. Drink plenty of water to stay cool and avoid dehydration.
  4. Use the restroom before you head to the airport. There are few public restrooms once you're inside, so it's best to take care of business before you go through security.
  5. Have some pesos on hand for incidentals. Many vendors only accept cash, so it's helpful to have some on hand just in case.

Why Fly Out of Tijuana?

Tijuana Airport offers a unique flying experience that you won't find at most airports. It's a great option for budget-minded travelers who are looking to save money on their travel expenses.

There are a few reasons why flying out of Tijuana can be cheaper than other options:

  • Tijuana is a popular destination for budget airlines, so there are often deals to be found on flights.
  • The airport is located just minutes from the US border, so there's no need to worry about customs or immigration.
  • The Cross Border Express makes it easy to get to and from the airport, so you don't have to worry about transportation costs.
  • If you're looking for an affordable way to travel, Tijuana Airport is a great option. With a little planning, you can save money on your flight and get to your destination with ease.

 

Here are some of the best things to do in Tijuana:

Visit the Museo de las Californias: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Californian region. It's a great place to learn about the area's rich history and see some beautiful artwork.

Stroll through Parque Morelos: This park is one of the most popular spots in Tijuana

 

Conclusion

Traveling can be a hassle, especially when going through customs and immigration. The Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is a website that helps you make the most of your trip by providing tips on how to save time and money when flying from Tijuana Airport.

Plane coming in for a landing over trees