Michael Turner
Recommendation: Use staffed baggage-deposit counters inside Benito Juárez International terminals 1 and 2 for secure short-term storage. Counters sit in arrivals halls (Terminal 1 near exit 4; Terminal 2 adjacent to international arrivals). Typical hours 06:00–23:00 daily; standard rate approximately 150–250 MXN per item per 24 hours; oversized pieces incur additional fees. Bring passport and boarding pass; obtain and retain receipt for claim and insurance purposes.
Tip: For layovers under four hours, request hourly storage option at counter if available to reduce costs. For transit passengers with connecting flights through Terminal 1–2, confirm security requirements before leaving sterile area; some terminals require bag drop prior to customs. For oversized sports equipment or musical instruments, call ahead to verify acceptance and rates.
Alternatives: nearby train and bus stations offer automated self-service cabinets and private courier services provide same-day door-to-door pickup between Benito Juárez International and downtown. Compare pricing: automated cabinet rates often start near 50 MXN per hour; courier quotes vary by size and distance. Verify pickup windows and insurance limits before committing.
Before travel: consult official MEX website or contact terminal information desks for current locations, hours and payment methods (cash, card, mobile payments). Keep digital photo of stored item condition when valuable items are left; record receipt number and desk name for quick retrieval.
Short-term bag storage options at AICM
Use official consigna counters inside Benito Juárez International (AICM) for secure short-term storage of suitcases and backpacks.
- Locations: Terminal 1 – arrivals hall near Gate 4; Terminal 2 – arrivals corridor near Gate 6. Look for signs reading “Consigna” or “Left Baggage”.
- Hours: Terminal 1 main counter usually open 24/7; Terminal 2 hours may vary by schedule. Confirm current opening times via AICM official website or information desks.
- Rates: typical range MXN 80–150 per 24-hour period for medium-size suitcase; hourly rates available for short stays; oversized pieces priced higher.
- ID & payment: passport or government ID plus flight or boarding information required at drop-off; cash (MXN) widely accepted; major credit cards often accepted but bring small bills for quicker service.
- Size & weight limits: most counters accept pieces up to ~25–30 kg and combined dimensions under ~160 cm; sports gear or instruments may need special handling or shipment arrangements.
- Security: items screened before storage; prohibited articles include explosives, flammable liquids, chemical agents; keep high-value items (cash, passports, jewelry, laptops) with traveler rather than in storage.
- Lost-tag / claim procedure: retain receipt and tag stub; return to same counter with ID for retrieval; delayed claims may incur extra fees.
- Alternatives: private on-demand storage vendors offering pick-up/drop-off in central neighborhoods; hotel concierge holding; express baggage shipping to downtown hotels or next-destination terminals.
- Quick practical tips:
- Photograph bag exterior, contents and tag number at drop-off.
- Allow 60–90 minutes buffer before boarding when reclaiming items to clear security and transfer time.
- Label bags with local phone number and flight detail for faster recovery.
For layover leisure ideas or off-route attractions, check best aquarium in canada.
Where to find storage and left-baggage desks: Terminal 1 vs Terminal 2
Prefer Terminal 2 for multi-day holds; use Terminal 1 for quick drops under 8 hours.
Terminal 1: staffed storage counters on Arrival level near baggage-claim areas and taxi/ride-share exits. Typical operating hours 05:00–23:00; fees roughly 50–150 MXN per item per day for small/medium pieces. Maximum single-item combined dimensions usually about 160 cm; payment methods: cash and major cards. Bring government ID; expect a paper receipt and a tag; processing time 5–15 minutes.
Terminal 2: central left-baggage desk inside International Arrivals hall, close to shuttle stops and curbside services. Many desks operate 24/7; standard rates about 70–250 MXN/day depending on volume and size. Oversized gear accepted by advance arrangement (operators list length and weight limits). Services often include short-term, long-term and optional declared-value insurance. Card and cash commonly accepted; staff issue time-stamped receipt and barcoded claim stub.
Useful tips: photograph contents and tag numbers before drop-off; remove lithium batteries and perishables; keep receipt until collection; allow 10–20 extra minutes for drop-off or pick-up during peak hours; declare valuable items on paperwork; for connection transfers, confirm desk opening hours by phone or arrivals-info screens. For travelers who prefer carrying essentials, consider compact carry options such as best backpack for a bug out bag.
Hours of operation and peak times to avoid
Plan to visit baggage storage counters between 09:00 and 16:00 on weekdays for shortest queues and fastest service.
Typical operating hours
Staffed baggage-storage counters generally operate 05:00–23:00 daily; some automated storage units remain accessible 24/7 near check-in and arrival areas. Confirm current schedules via terminal information desks or official website before arrival.
Peak windows to avoid
Avoid rush windows 05:30–09:30 and 16:30–20:30 on weekdays; weekend peak usually 10:00–14:00. Major holiday periods (Christmas/New Year, Semana Santa, Easter) and national holiday long weekends produce sustained congestion across terminals; expect lines and longer processing times during those days.
Timing guidance: If arrival falls inside rush windows, add 30–45 minutes for drop-off or pick-up; for departures allow 60 minutes extra if using a staffed counter. Many counters stop accepting new items 30–60 minutes before closing.
After-hours options: Book hotel storage or central station left-baggage services when staffed counters close; if 24/7 automated units unavailable, plan to carry essentials onboard. Always obtain and keep receipt; photograph bag tag and storage unit number.
Available sizes, fees, maximum storage duration and payment methods
Recommendation: book a medium unit (45×35×25 cm) for one carry-on; reserve a large unit (80×50×40 cm) for a full-size suitcase or two cabin cases when storage will exceed 24 hours.
Size options and typical capacity: Small – 30×20×15 cm (personal items, small backpack). Medium – 45×35×25 cm (one carry-on or daypack). Large – 80×50×40 cm (checked-size suitcase). Extra-large – 120×60×50 cm (sports gear, large trunks).
Fee structure (examples observed at ground-level storage points): Small: MXN 60–90 / USD 3–5 per 24 h; Medium: MXN 90–140 / USD 5–7 per 24 h; Large: MXN 140–250 / USD 7–13 per 24 h; Extra-large: MXN 250–450 / USD 13–23 per 24 h. Discounts sometimes applied for multi-day prepayment (2–7 day blocks).
Maximum storage duration: standard maximum 30 days for registered items. Short-term option available for stays under 72 hours with hourly or daily billing. Items unclaimed after maximum period enter local disposal or auction procedures; a handling fee may be charged before disposal.
Accepted payment methods: cash (pesos; many counters accept USD), major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), contactless chip payments (PayPass / payWave) at self-service kiosks, and mobile wallets at select locations. Prepayment via third-party apps or web portals accepted at some providers; save confirmation screenshot for pickup.
Operational notes: bring valid photo ID at drop-off and present pickup receipt at collection. Insurance for stored items not included by default; purchase optional coverage where available. For brand recommendations on suitcases and travel bags visit best baggage companies in the world.
Step-by-step rental: ID requirements, payment and retrieving your bags
Bring passport or national ID plus credit/debit card; keep booking QR or printed receipt when pre-booking online at MEX.
Step 1 – Present photo ID and payment method at kiosk or staffed counter. Agent will confirm ID photo matches person renting and, when required, request signature. Accepted primary IDs: passport, national ID card, driver’s license. For minors, adult must present own ID and card and sign authorization form.
Step 2 – Choose duration and storage unit on touchscreen or with agent. Payment options: cash (MXN, USD), chip-and-PIN cards (Visa, MasterCard), contactless cards, NFC wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay), and select mobile-banking apps. Preauthorization holds or refundable deposits may be placed on card for high-value storage; check hold amount before confirming transaction.
Step 3 – Receive proof of rental: printed receipt with unique access code, paper key, or electronic QR/PIN. Save screenshot of any digital code and keep paper receipt folded inside wallet. For keyed units, retain key on person; report lost key immediately to staff and expect replacement fee plus identity verification.
Step 4 – Retrieval procedure: present original receipt or saved QR/PIN and matching photo ID. Staff will match ID, verify access code, then release bags. For third-party pickup, renter must provide signed written authorization, copy of renter’s ID, and copy of card used for payment if requested by staff.
Lost-receipt or dispute handling: report incident at service desk, show valid photo ID, complete release form and provide witness signature when required; administrative fee may apply and release may take extra processing time. For damaged or opened items, photograph condition with staff present, complete incident report, and request copy for insurance or claims.
Quick tips: photograph receipt code at drop-off, keep card used for payment accessible at pickup, note expiry time printed on receipt, set phone reminder for collection, avoid storing irreplaceable items without separate insurance.
| Requirement | Accepted forms | Proof needed for retrieval | If receipt/key lost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identity | Passport, national ID card, driver’s license | Original photo ID matching renter | Report at service desk; present valid ID; complete release form |
| Payment | MXN, USD, Visa, MasterCard, contactless, Apple/Google Pay | Transaction receipt or card used for payment | Staff may accept card imprint or online payment proof; additional verification required |
| Access | Printed ticket, QR code, PIN, physical key | Printed ticket or saved QR/PIN plus photo ID | Staff verification and signed declaration; replacement fee possible |
FAQ:
Do Mexico City International Airport (MEX) have luggage lockers or a left-luggage service?
There are not many public self-service coin-operated lockers inside the terminals. The airport does provide manned luggage storage (often labeled “Consigna” or “Left Luggage”) in at least one arrivals hall, and private storage options operate close to the terminals. Locations and services change from time to time, so contact airport passenger services or consult the official airport site before you travel.
What should I expect to pay and what are the rules for using the storage at MEX?
Prices and limits depend on the provider and the size and number of items. Airport-run counters and private companies usually charge per item and by time (hourly or daily). Bring a government ID; you will receive a receipt or claim ticket that is required to pick up the bags. Operators commonly refuse hazardous items (lithium batteries, aerosols, flammable liquids, weapons, etc.) and high-value items such as large amounts of cash or original passports. Opening hours often align with flight schedules but staff shifts can restrict service windows. If you need exact rates and current hours, call the airport or the specific storage provider before you arrive.
If there are no convenient lockers, what are safe alternatives for storing luggage near the airport and how do I use them?
If terminal lockers are not available, try these options: 1) Use a manned left-luggage counter inside the terminal or a private luggage-storage company near the airport; many apps and local businesses list short-term drop-off points. 2) Ask a hotel (even if you are not staying overnight) whether they will hold bags for a fee. 3) Some longer-term parking or shuttle providers offer storage; inquire in advance. Practical steps: compare prices and read recent reviews, confirm opening and collection times, check whether the provider carries insurance or sets a declared-value limit, and verify what items are not accepted. At drop-off, present an ID, keep the claim receipt, take photos of contents and of the tag or receipt, and write down the provider’s contact number. Avoid leaving passports, irreplaceable documents or large sums of cash in stored luggage. If your plan requires keeping items while you leave and re-enter the terminal, factor in time for immigration and security checks. For the most current options and addresses, contact airport information or search for nearby storage facilities with user reviews.
