CBX Holiday Travel Hacks 2025: How to Cross Smarter This Season

Southbound Travel: Headed to Mexico via CBX? Read this before your trip.

1. Arrive EARLY – We mean it

The terminals and airports get very busy during the holidays. To avoid missing your flight, plan to arrive with plenty of time for parking, security, baggage check, and possible weather delays. We recommend arriving at CBX at least 3–4 hours before your flight.

2. Buy your CBX tickets in advance

Don’t wait until the last minute. Purchase your CBX tickets online through our official website or mobile app available on App Store or Google Play, or grab them at one of our terminal kiosks (We accept both cash and card payment). Buying early saves money and helps you avoid lines and lock in your preferred travel window.

3. Have your documents ready at the E-gates

To make your crossing faster, be prepared when you reach the CBX E-Gates. Have these items in hand:

- Your flight boarding pass.
- Your CBX ticket.
- Your valid passport (book or card).

If you’re an international traveler heading into Mexico through CBX, make sure to complete the required Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) online before your trip. The form must be filled out electronically at the CBX FMM Kiosks at the Tijuana Airport.

4. Staying in Mexico for more than 7 days?

If you’re planning a longer stay, you’ll need to fill out the FMM immigration form and pay the DNR fee at the Tijuana Airport (Card payment only). This applies to stays of 7 days or longer. Make sure to complete this before passing through Mexican immigration.

5. Book your CBX parking in advance

Avoid last-minute parking stress. Reserve your CBX parking spot online at least 24 hours in advance to guarantee availability. Our lots fill up fast during peak travel times.

CBX offers over 10,000 parking spaces located right next to the CBX terminal in San Diego, with 24/7 security for peace of mind. You can choose from a variety of parking options — including standard self-serve lots, reserved premium parking closest to the CBX entrance, street parking, and even valet service. Valet parking often includes priority curbside drop‑off, pick‑up, and complimentary EV charging for electric vehicles (subject to availability). By booking ahead through the CBX website or app, you’ll lock in your preferred lot, avoid long waits at pay kiosks, and streamline the start of your travel day.

6. Returning U.S. Citizens

If you’re a U.S. citizen flying into Tijuana and coming back to San Diego through CBX, you can speed things up by using our Enhanced Passenger Processing system. Just scan your documents at the e-gates for a faster re-entry into the U.S.

Enjoy your Trip!

CBX was designed to make travel easier. A few simple steps ahead of time can make a big difference during the holidays. Safe travels and happy holidays!

Northbound Travel: Crossing into the U.S. through CBX? Here’s what you need to know.

1. Buy your CBX tickets ahead of time

CBX is the most convenient way to cross into the U.S., but it still gets busy. Purchase your ticket online via our website or mobile app, or use one of the kiosks at the terminal. Both cash and card are accepted, but booking early gives you peace of mind.

2. Keep your documents ready to go

When you arrive at the CBX terminal, have your documents organized and accessible:

- Flight boarding pass, printed or in your airline app (Pro Tip: take a screenshot before boarding)
- CBX ticket
- Valid passport
- US Visa

This helps you move quickly through the crossing process without delays.

3. Traveling beyond the border zone?

If you’re a foreign citizen traveling northbound into the United States through CBX, and you’re going beyond the border zone—like visiting Los Angeles, Disneyland in Anaheim, or traveling more than 25 miles north (around 40 kilometers) from the border—you’ll need to complete the I-94 permit. You can do this online at the official CBP I-94 website or through their mobile app before you travel.

4. Plan your ground transportation before you arrive

Make your post-crossing travel easy and book your bus ride or shuttle from CBX ahead of time. With over 50 routes across five states, you can connect to major destinations like Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and more. Our buses run daily and are a reliable option if you want to skip the hassle of finding a ride at the last minute.

Prefer to drive? CBX partners with seven top car rental companies on-site, offering flexible options for any type of trip. For a more private experience, check out Wheels, our premium transportation service for 1 to 12 passengers—ideal for families, groups, or travelers who want a direct, personalized ride.

Reserve early to guarantee availability and keep your trip running smoothly.

5. U.S. citizens get to use our Enhanced Passenger Processing

Returning home? U.S. citizens can take advantage of our Enhanced Passenger Processing system for quicker re-entry. Scan your passport at the CBX e-gates for a smoother, faster experience.

Ready to Travel Smart this Holiday Season with CBX?

The holidays are among the busiest travel times of the year, but with a bit of preparation, your journey through Cross Border Xpress (CBX) can be smooth, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re flying southbound to Mexico or northbound into the U.S., these travel hacks will help you save time, avoid crowds, and stay one step ahead of the holiday rush.

From buying your CBX tickets early to reserving parking and transportation in advance to having your documents ready at the E-Gates, small actions can make a big difference. And with access to over 50 shuttle routes, rental car options, and private transport services.