Mexico holds a special place in our hearts, and during our recent visit – our third overall – we opted to rent a car directly from the airport (Check Out Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport here). This decision allowed us to discover stunning locations like Bacalar, far from the bustling crowds of typical tourist spots.
Traveling in Mexico can often come with a hefty price tag, but we found that renting a car at Cancun Airport is surprisingly affordable. This cost-effective choice enabled us to visit several attractions in Yucatan Peninsula without breaking the bank, making our adventures not only enjoyable but also financially sensible.
In this article, we aim to provide you with all the essential details you need for renting a car in Mexico. From tips on navigating the local roads to understanding rental agreements, we’ll cover everything to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
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Arriving At the Airport (Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport)
Upon arriving at Cancun Airport and collecting your luggage, the next step is to navigate through passport control and make your way to the exit. As you step outside, you will notice a variety of car rental kiosks conveniently located to your right. These stands provide essential information regarding the collection of your car keys, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to your journey ahead.
For our car rental needs, we always prefer to book in advance through the Discovercars website, which has proven to be reliable. Other popular platforms like Rentalcars and Booking also offer a wide selection of rental options, making it easy to find a vehicle that suits your needs.
While many car rental companies in Mexico may not boast the best reviews, the attractive pricing and minimal deposit requirements led us to choose MEX RENT A CAR, a service recommended by a friend who had a positive experience just weeks earlier.
Purchasing SIM Card at Cancun Airport
Additionally, if you find yourself needing a SIM card before leaving the airport, there are stands available where you can purchase one. They offer various packages, including unlimited weekly plans, and you can pay using either cash or card. However, keep in mind that a SIM card may not be essential, as we experienced limited coverage in several areas during our travels.
It is worth downloading Google Maps Offline in advance. Traveling from Tulum to Centoe Suytun and Cenote Ik Kil, we did not have coverage on our sim card and only thanks to the Google Maps Offline we managed to get to our destination.
Why Should You Rent a Car? (Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport)
Reserving your car ahead of time and picking it up directly from Cancun Airport can be a more economical choice compared to renting one at your hotel. For instance, our friends decided to rent a car for just a single day while staying at their hotel in Playa del Carmen, and they ended up spending the same amount that we did. In my view, renting car at Cancun airport represents a significant saving.
Moreover, planning your car rental in advance not only helps you save money but also allows you to choose from a wider selection of vehicles. When you book early, you can often find better deals and promotions that may not be available last minute. This flexibility can enhance your travel experience, giving you the freedom to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace without breaking the bank.
Additionally, picking up your rental car at the airport can streamline your travel plans. You can avoid the hassle of arranging transportation to your hotel just to rent a car later. Instead, you can head straight to your destination, making the most of your time in the stunning Yucatan Peninsula. Overall, planning ahead for your car rental can lead to both financial savings and a more enjoyable travel experience.
Best Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport
When you visit the Discovercars website, you’ll come across a variety of car rental companies, including well-known names like Hertz, Sixt, and Avis. However, it’s worth noting that their rental prices tend to be significantly higher compared to those offered by MEX RENT A CAR.
MEX RENT A CAR stands out as one of the leading car rental services in Mexico, and it has gained immense popularity among locals. By choosing to rent from MEX RENT A CAR, you not only enjoy competitive rates but also contribute to the support of local businesses. It’s interesting to observe that a majority of customers at MEX RENT A CAR are Mexican nationals.
In addition to MEX RENT A CAR, travelers arriving at Cancun Airport have a wide array of options to choose from, including Localiza, ACE Rent a Car, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Europcar, Flexways, GreenMotion, Infinity Car Rental, Keddy, NUCarrentals, National, Routes Car Rental, Street Rent A Car, and Thrifty. This extensive selection ensures that visitors can find a rental service that meets their specific needs and preferences, making their travel experience even more convenient.
How to Get to the Mex Rental Desk from Cancun Airport?
To reach the MEX rental desk after you leave the airport, simply turn right towards the parking area. There, you will find a selection of buses that provide complimentary transportation for travelers to various car rental agencies, including MEX RENT A CAR The convenience of these shuttles makes it easy for tourists to access their rental cars without any hassle.
Our bus arrived promptly, and before we knew it, we were at the MEX reception area. The reception itself is quite spacious, featuring numerous service counters, which reflects the high demand for car rentals at Cancun Airport. Upon entering, you will need to input your reservation number and email address to receive a ticket number that will be displayed on a screen. After a brief wait, your number will be called, directing you to one of the service stands.
Why Did We Choose Mex Rent a Car? (Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport)
We decided to rent with MEX because of the low deposit compared to other companies. Although the Discovercars website listed the deposit as $500-$1500, from our previous experiences renting a car in Montenegro, we knew that if we bought insurance on the spot, the deposit would be lower or non-existent.
By booking the car through Discovercars and purchasing full insurance at MEX rental desk, our deposit was only $100. After completing the formalities at the front desk including placing a credit card deposit and paying for car insurance, which covers everything except for a few things like lost keys, fines and not returning the car with the same amount of petrol it was delivered with, this full insurance will make your Cancun Airport Car Rental less stressful.
Collecting Your Car from Mex Rent a Car (Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport)
After leaving the MEX reception, turn to your right, where a friendly staff member will assist you with your car reservation. The signage is clearly displayed in both English and Spanish, ensuring that you can easily navigate the space. Additionally, the MEX employees are fluent in both languages, making it simple to locate the reception desk or the car pick-up area without any confusion.
When the MEX representative arrived with the vehicle we had previously booked, we took the opportunity to snap some photos and record a video. This was a precautionary measure to document the car’s condition before returning it. Thankfully, since we opted for full insurance coverage, we encountered no issues when it came time to reclaim our deposit after the rental period.
Typically, when we book a car online, we prefer the Full to Full option, which allows us to pick up the vehicle with a full tank and return it in the same condition. However, during this last-minute reservation, we overlooked the fuel policy and ended up with a car that was nearly empty.
Consequently, after receiving the keys, we had to drive to the nearest gas station. Luckily, car rental companies often have a gas station conveniently located nearby, and we quickly found ourselves at the Pemex station, just a short drive from the MEX reception.
Road Conditions in Mexico
My previous experiences in Mexico led me to believe that driving in Quintana Roo would be a less stressful compared to the challenging, winding roads of Montenegro. The journey from Cancun airport to the main tourist attractions is primarily along the straightforward Highway 307, which offers a sense of ease for travelers.
This highway is quite spacious, featuring multiple lanes; however, the visibility of lane markings can be quite poor or confusing. For instance, upon exiting the airport, we encountered a painted arrow indicating a right turn, yet it was also possible to continue straight from the same lane, which can be quite confusing for drivers unfamiliar with the area.
Additionally, the speed limit signs seem to change frequently without much apparent reasoning, adding to the driving challenges. Moreover, the presence of high speed bumps, known as TOPE, requires constant vigilance, especially when navigating a rental car.
Interestingly, almost every speed bump is accompanied by stalls where you can purchase souvenirs or fresh fruits like mangoes. On the other hand, on busier streets, such as Av. Tulum, you might be surprised when someone suddenly approaches your vehicle to clean your windows, hoping to receive a small tip in return. This unexpected encounter happened to us once during our week-long stay in Mexico.
It is worth adding that driving at night can be particularly daunting, as many roads lack adequate lighting, making it difficult to spot these bumps. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your itinerary so that you return to your hotel before nightfall to ensure a safer journey.
Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula During Winter
When travelling between Quintana Roo and Yucatan during the winter months, it’s important to keep in mind that there is a one-hour time difference. If you’re traveling from Tulum to popular destinations like Cenote Suytun, Cenote Ik Kil, or Chichen Itza, be sure to adjust your watch accordingly by one hour.
This time difference actually turned out to be beneficial for us, as we found ourselves gaining an extra hour in Yucatan. This allowed us to maximize our exploration of the cenotes, and we managed to visit five of them in a single day. Our ability to accomplish this was largely due to renting a car, as most organized tours typically limit their visits to just one cenote per day, which would have restricted our adventure.
Additionally, we were pleasantly surprised to discover the same hour time difference when traveling from Tulum to Bacalar in the winter. While Bacalar may not attract as many tourists as other destinations, I must say that the roads leading there are in excellent condition, significantly better than those found in the Tulum area.
Our Experience of Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula
Traveling from Tulum to Bacalar involves a minor toll fee along the way. If you’re considering a trip to Bacalar, it’s essential to refuel in Tulum, as there are limited gas stations throughout the majority of the journey. Additionally, it’s a good idea to pack some snacks and water for the road to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Moreover, during our journey from Tulum to Bacalar, we encountered some road construction, but the overall driving experience was quite smooth and efficient, allowing us to stay on schedule. The light traffic on the roads contributed to a relaxed atmosphere, ensuring that we reached our destination without any stress.
On the other hand, on our drive from Tulum to Cenote Suytun, we experienced our first stop along the way. This pause was brief and primarily served to inform us about a time change, as well as to remind us that the last entry to the archaeological sites is at 4 p.m. The friendly staff also inquired about our plans for the day.
Road Traffic in Mexico
We were pleasantly surprised to find that the roads from Tulum to Cenote Ik Kil were not overly crowded, which led us to believe that many tourists prefer to stay in all-inclusive resorts or participate in organized excursions.
After our drive from Cancun and past Playa del Carmen, we noticed a significant reduction in traffic. Even the busier sections near Cancun airport were manageable, and we didn’t encounter any traffic jams, which is a nice change compared to the often congested roads in England. This ease of travel allowed us enjoy our journey without the stress of heavy traffic.
Is it Safe to Drive in Mexico as a Tourist?
I discovered that navigating through Quintana Roo was not that difficult. This was our third visit to Mexico, and throughout our travels, we have consistently felt secure in the region. The sense of safety we experienced allowed us to fully enjoy our adventures without any worries.
Exploring popular destinations such as Cancun, Holbox, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya should not cause any major safety concerns. These areas are well-frequented by tourists, and the infrastructure is designed to accommodate visitors, making it a comfortable experience. However, before you travel, it is always a good idea to check the government website for the latest information about travel safety in Mexico.
Which Side of the Road Does Mexico Drive On?
In Mexico, vehicles travel on the right side of the road, similar to the driving rules in most of the European countries. Having spent many years in England, where left-hand driving is the norm, we found that adjusting to right-hand traffic required a bit of time. Fortunately, the spacious roads and the direct route connecting Cancun airport to Tulum made the transition smoother, allowing us to adapt quickly to driving on the right.
The journey from Tulum to Cenote Suytun, along with several other nearby cenotes, also follows a straightforward road. While this direct route offers convenience, it can become somewhat monotonous due to the lack of turns, as drivers find themselves on a straight stretch for most of the trip. However, this simplicity can be a significant advantage, as it reduces the stress of navigating frequent turns and intersections.
Cancun Airport Car Rental Requirements
Before finalizing your car rental, it’s advisable to review the specific rental conditions, which can be found on the Discoverscars website. This resource provides essential information regarding payment methods, age restrictions for drivers, policies on crossing borders, fuel requirements, and the mileage limits associated with your rental.
Opting for a rental option that includes unlimited mileage can enhance your travel experience, allowing you to explore without the worry of additional charges. In summary, understanding the rental requirements and conditions at Cancun Airport can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. By being informed about age restrictions and other policies, you can make the best choice for your needs and enjoy your time in this beautiful destination.
How Old do you Have to be to Rent a Car in Mexico?
When planning to rent a car at Cancun Airport, it’s important to be aware of the age requirements. Generally, you must be at least 25 years old to rent a vehicle. However, some rental companies, like Localiza and Alamo, do allow drivers aged 21 to 24 to rent cars, although this comes with an extra daily charge for younger drivers.
Additional Driver (Car Rental Cancun Mexico Airport)
When making an online reservation, we typically provide the details of the primary driver for the vehicle. However, upon arrival, it is possible to add an additional driver at no extra charge, provided that we opt for full insurance coverage for the vehicle.
This is a smart choice, particularly for those intending to explore extensively, as the journey from Cancun airport to Bacalar spans approximately four hours. Not everyone is accustomed to such lengthy drives, making it beneficial to share the driving responsibilities.
What Car to Rent in Mexico?
When considering a rental car for your trip to Mexico, particularly if you’re heading to Quintana Roo, a compact vehicle such as a Volkswagen Golf should serve you well. This type of car is ideal for navigating the region’s urban areas and popular tourist spots. However, if your plans include venturing into more rugged or less-traveled areas, opting for a Jeep or SUV might be a better choice to handle the varied terrain.
For those visiting Mexico for the first time, or even returning for subsequent trips, a smaller car is typically sufficient for most travel needs. You can find great deals on rental options through platforms like Discovercars, making it easy to secure an affordable vehicle for your journey.
Where to Park Your Rented Car?
We were delighted to discover that every Cenote we visited provided ample parking options. This made our excursions hassle-free, as we never encountered any difficulties in locating a parking space or reaching our intended destinations. The convenience of parking added to the overall enjoyment of our adventures, allowing us to focus on the beauty and wonder of the Cenotes without the stress of transportation logistics.
If you’re considering renting a car at Cancun airport, it’s essential to choose a hotel that accommodates parking for its guests. We opted for the 4-star Motto by Hilton in Tulum, believing it to be an ideal hub for exploring the wonders of Yucatan Peninsula. This hotel features free underground parking, which is a significant advantage. We found an abundance of parking spaces available, and even when we returned late in the evening, we never faced any issues finding a spot.
The Motto by Hilton is conveniently situated on one of Tulum’s main roads leading directly to the beach, making it easy to locate without the stress of navigating side streets – especially beneficial for first-time renters in Mexico. Additionally, Av. Coba, a vibrant street nearby, is lined with trendy bars and restaurants, such as Liefs Tulum and Ancestral Jungle Bar, which are just a short walk from the hotel’s reception. This proximity allows guests to enjoy the local nightlife without needing to drive, enhancing the overall experience of our stay.
Returning the Car at the Airport
When we collected the car, we promptly marked the rental location with a pin on Google Maps. This simple step ensures that when it comes time to return the vehicle, we can effortlessly navigate back to the exact spot where we first picked it up.
By saving the location, we eliminate any potential confusion or stress about finding our way back, allowing us to focus on enjoying our trip. It’s a small but effective strategy that makes the process of returning the car much smoother.
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