Are you flying or driving? An advantage of driving is that you won’t have to worry about how much you can pack. US drivers can drive into Tijuana with nothing more than their passports. And that’s mostly because you will need it to return to the US. If you drive, get insurance to cover you while in Mexico. Ask your insurance company or visit any insurance shops along the border that are used to dealing with this. 

However, most people who go to Tijuana come from places where it is more convenient to fly into the San Diego airport. You probably won’t be feeling much like driving anyway after surgery. So, let’s talk flying for a moment.

You need to know what you can and cannot carry with you on an airplane. Consult your carrier’s guidelines. Also, keep in mind these TSA rules. It is not a comprehensive list. But it covers most of what you should know on this particular trip to cosmetic and weight loss surgery in Tijuana:

• Solid foods are permitted in carry-ons. But be sure to read your doctor’s instructions about your pre-op diet. Remember that airport food can be expensive.
• Eating utensils are permitted in carry-ons. However, your knives and forks must be round-bladed. 
• Medications and prescriptions are allowed. 
• Creams and lotions are considered liquids. They must follow the 3.4 ounces or less rule. 
• It’s advisable to leave your jewelry behind. You won’t need it on this trip. But if you take it with you, it must stay on. 
• Choose an appropriate travel bag. Soft-sided bags are fine. You probably will take it with you on the plane. Be sure it meets your carrier’s size restrictions. This also applies to suitcases.

Choose an appropriate travel bag. Soft-sided bags are fine. You probably will take it with you on the plane. Be sure it meets your carrier’s size restrictions. This also applies to suitcases.

Speaking about suitcases, consider your needs and your budget. If you’re in the market for a new suitcase, take a look at offerings with durability and smooth-rolling wheels. Some have front compartments for easy access to essentials. Also, consider whether you prefer hard or soft sides. Hard sides offer more protection, while soft sides offer more flexibility. Choose a bright color or mark your bag in a way that makes it easy for you to recognize it. 

If you’re traveling with an older suitcase, check to see if it is not damaged. Make sure its wheels work well. It would be preferable if you could lock it. Remember that you may have to unlock it during the security screening.

Mexico’s federal consumer protection agency, PROFECO, by its Spanish initials, lists the following brands and models among the top-rated offerings. 

• Kenneth Cole (New York)
• Samsonite Octolite Spinner Black
• Compass CP-MCA20SL gray
• Mainstays 6087-20
• American Tourister Curio Spinner Pink
• TCL Xpedition Travelers Club
• Victorinox Airox 612500 Black/Noir
• Weekend AH2475-20
• Giacomo Rosaldi Paris
• Landsender Titan LS-MT20BL
• Nautica A 12651
• Wilson WLS062-L G020D

Remember that PROFECO reported that none of the above models were 100% waterproof. 

Of course, there are bigger suitcases meant for check-in. If that is the case, consider a suitcase’s durability. Some offer a compression-expansion system. Don’t lock your checked baggage. Security personnel may have to open it, and they will break the lock if needed. 

Book your flight as soon as possible. You will get the best fares and preferred seats. Check travel requirements. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, certain requirements may still be in place. 

Organize your documents. Leave copies at home. Remember to take your passport. You will need it to return to the US. Mexico does not require a visa if you are a US citizen. Also, notify your bank that you will be traveling. Sometimes, bank charges from outside the US get flagged. Your bank may suspect fraud and decline charges.