Landing at the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) is such an incredible feeling.
You step off the plane and that warm, tropical air hits your face immediately. It smells like salt water and adventure!!!!
I’ve made this trip more times than I can count, so I know exactly how it feels to be standing on that tarmac, ready to get to your stay.
But if you aren't careful, the airport can be a bit of a maze that eats up your precious vacation time.
I want you to get from the runway to your puerto vallarta condo rentals as fast as humanly possible so you can start relaxing.
Here are the 7 biggest mistakes I see people making at the airport and how you can avoid them like a pro.
1. Stopping in the "Shark Tank"
This is the most famous mistake of all.
Once you clear customs and grab your bags, you have to walk through a final set of sliding glass doors.
Behind those doors is a hallway filled with people who look very official.
They might ask where you are staying, offer you "free" tequila, or tell you they have your transportation vouchers.
Do not stop. Just keep walking!!!!
These are timeshare representatives, and while they are friendly, they will take up an hour of your time before you even leave the building.
If you are a solo traveler, just put your head down and say "No gracias" with a smile.
Keep moving until you see the bright sunlight and the real transportation area.
2. Exchanging Your Money at the Airport
I get it: you want to have pesos in your pocket the second you land.
But the exchange booths inside the terminal usually have the absolute worst rates in the city.
You are basically throwing money away before you even get into a taxi.
Instead, wait until you get to your destination.
There are plenty of ATMs in Old Town and Zona Romantica that will give you a much better deal.
If you really need cash right away, use one of the bank ATMs inside the airport terminal rather than the exchange windows.
It makes a huge difference in your budget for the week!!!!
3. Missing the Secret Pedestrian Bridge
If you want to save some cash and get a head start on your adventure, you need to know about the bridge.
The airport taxis are great and very safe, but they can be a bit more expensive because of airport fees.
If you walk out of the terminal and turn left, you’ll find a pedestrian bridge that crosses the main highway.
On the other side of that bridge, you can easily catch an Uber or a local taxi for a much lower price.
It’s a great way to start your trip if you are traveling light with just a carry-on bag.
Plus, the view from the top of the bridge gives you your first real look at the mountains and the bustle of the city.
It’s one of those little secrets that makes you feel like a total local.
4. Not Having Your Address Ready
I see this happen all the time at the taxi stand.
People land, they are tired, and they realize they don’t have the exact address of their condo rentals in puerto vallarta written down.
Cell service can be spotty right when you land, so don't rely on your email loading!
Write it down on a piece of paper or take a screenshot of the directions before you leave home.
This is especially important if you are staying in the Amapas area.
Amapas is tucked away just south of the main hub, and it is easily the best place to stay because of the views and the peace.
But because it’s on the hillside, some taxi drivers might need the specific name of the building to find the quickest route up the hill.
Being prepared means you get to your balcony faster.
5. Losing Your Paperwork
Even in our digital world, some things in Mexico still use paper.
Sometimes you get a small slip of paper at immigration or customs.
Hold onto everything!!!!
I’ve seen travelers get to the end of their trip and realize they lost a form they needed for departure.
Keep a small folder or a specific pocket in your bag for all your travel documents.
It saves so much stress when you are trying to head back home later.
Also, be sure to check out our guide on mistakes to avoid with timing so you don't run into issues on the way out!
6. Arriving on a Saturday if You Can Avoid It
If your schedule is flexible, try to land on a Tuesday or Wednesday.
Saturdays at PVR are legendary for being busy!!!!
The lines for immigration can wrap around the room, and the wait for luggage can feel like an eternity.
If you do have to arrive on a weekend, just pack your patience.
We always recommend having a small bottle of water in your carry-on for the wait.
Once you get through and finally reach your condo, all that stress will melt away the second you see the ocean.
7. Overpacking for the Heat
This might not seem like an airport mistake, but it is when you are dragging three heavy suitcases through the heat.
Puerto Vallarta is incredibly casual.
You mostly need swimsuits, shorts, and maybe one nice outfit for a sunset dinner.
If you pack light, you can skip the checked bag wait and walk right out the door.
You’ll be sitting in Old Town with a taco in your hand while everyone else is still standing at the luggage carousel.
Trust me, the less you bring, the happier you will be.
If you are still deciding where to book your stay, I wrote a post about finding your vibe in Amapas that breaks down why that neighborhood is so special.
Why Amapas is the Place to Be
When you finally get out of the airport and into your ride, you want to be heading toward the best part of town.
Old Town and Zona Romantica are the same amazing neighborhood, full of life and color.
But Amapas is really the crown jewel.
It sits just above the beach, giving you these insane views of the bay without all the noise of the main streets.
It is peaceful, lush, and still just a five-minute walk to all the best restaurants.
I SOOO LOVE the feeling of waking up in Amapas and hearing the birds in the jungle trees.
It is highly recommended for anyone who wants a mix of relaxation and easy access to the party.
The hills can be a bit of a workout, but that just means you can eat more guacamole later!!!!
Getting through PVR doesn't have to be a headache.
Just keep walking, keep your address handy, and keep your eyes on the prize.
We can't wait to see you here in paradise.
It truly is the best place on earth, and we are so grateful every time we get to share it with new friends.
If you want to see some of the amazing views waiting for you, come hang out with us on Facebook.
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