Travellers with flights from Vancouver to Mexico can face hefty fines and even imprisonment if they don't follow strict, relatively new packing guidelines.
Mexico banned smoking in public places in January 2023, and the Canadian government warned tourists caught smoking on beaches, in parks, in hotels, and in restaurants could be fined or arrested.
The use of vapes was also banned in public places. However, in January 2025, the Mexican government also outlawed the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes and vapes.
Here's what Canadian travellers need to know about vapes, electronic device allowances, and filming with drones while visiting Mexico.
What does the ban of vapes mean for travellers?
You can't feign ignorance if a Mexican security guard finds an electronic cigarette or vape in your carry-on or checked bag. While they are legal in Canada, as soon as you enter Mexico, you may face penalties.
Travellers are allowed to bring vapes on planes in Canada, so they may pass through airport security without issue until they arrive in Mexico.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) authorities are not responsible for alerting you to these travel prohibitions, nor are Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) screening officers.
Canada's Mexico advisory notes that it is illegal to bring, sell or distribute:
- electronic cigarettes
- vaping devices
- vaping solutions
Customs officials in Mexico will confiscate these items. You could also be fined or detained.
Canada's flag carrier, Air Canada, notes that Mexico-bound travellers found with a single vape or e-cigarette may face fines exceeding US$1,000. People carrying multiple devices could get slapped with fines of over US$100,000 or possible jail time.
Electronic devices: What can you bring to Mexico?
The Mexican consulate in Canada notes that travellers may only bring the following specific items:
- Two (2) cameras or camcorders and camera gear
- Three (3) cellphones or other wireless devices
- One (1) GPS
- One (1) electronic organizer
- One (1) laptop, notebook, omnibook or other portable computing device
- One (1) portable copier or printer
- One (1) CD burner
- One (1) portable overhead projector and its accessories.
Air Canada notes that bringing a second device into Mexico when only one is allowed, such as a laptop, may result in a 19 per cent tax on the item's assessed value.
What about filming with drones in Mexico?
Tourists who want to film footage with drones must declare them to the Mexican government.
Proof of drone purchase is required, and ones costing over $500 will be taxed. Without proof of purchase, travellers will be charged an estimated tax, which may include a long wait.
Drones weighing over 250 g must be registered with Mexico’s aviation authority, the Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil.
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