Cross Border Xpress (CBX): The Secret Travel Hack for SoCal Flyers
If you're a traveler based in Southern California, there’s a smart alternative to LAX and San Diego International Airport you may not know about: flying out of Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) using the Cross Border Xpress (CBX). This hidden gem makes international travel more affordable, efficient, and surprisingly stress-free.
After using CBX for a recent trip to Mexico City, I’m convinced it’s one of the best-kept travel secrets for anyone flying to Mexico or Latin America.
What Is the CBX Bridge?
The Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is a dedicated pedestrian skybridge connecting San Diego directly to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ). Located in Otay Mesa, CBX allows you to walk across the U.S.-Mexico border in minutes—without ever having to drive through Tijuana.
✅ Key CBX benefit: You must have a valid boarding pass from TIJ to use it. It’s exclusively for airline passengers departing or arriving through Tijuana Airport.
Why Fly Out of Tijuana Airport Instead of LAX or SAN?
✈️ 1. Cheaper Flights to Mexico and Latin America
Airlines like Volaris, VivaAerobus, and Aeromexico offer significantly lower fares from TIJ compared to U.S. airports. My round-trip flight to Mexico City cost me $150 less than the same route from LAX.
⏱️ 2. Avoid the Chaos of LAX
Traffic, security lines, and terminal confusion are minimized when you fly from TIJ via CBX. It’s a smoother, more pleasant experience from start to finish.
🚘 3. Convenient Access from Anywhere in Southern California
From Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Diego, you can reach the CBX terminal within 1–3 hours depending on traffic. Parking is ample, secure, and affordable.
How to Use CBX: Step-by-Step
🛂 1. Buy a CBX Ticket Online
Tickets cost around $20 one-way or $40 round-trip. You can purchase them as a bundle with your airline ticket or directly through the CBX website.
🅿️ 2. Park at the CBX Terminal or Use Rideshare
CBX offers secure, long-term parking starting at $20/day. If you prefer Uber or Lyft, be sure your driver drops you off at the CBX terminal, not the general border crossing in San Ysidro.
🧾 3. Required Documents to Cross CBX
Valid passport
Boarding pass from TIJ
CBX ticket
Completed Mexican immigration form (FMM)
The walk across the border takes less than 10 minutes, and everything is well-marked, clean, and air-conditioned.
Inside Tijuana International Airport (TIJ)
Tijuana Airport may surprise you. It’s modern, organized, and easy to navigate. There are plenty of food options, retail shops, and comfortable seating areas. I breezed through security in under 15 minutes and had time to grab tacos before boarding.
No TSA hassle. No crowds. Just smooth travel.
Flying Domestic from TIJ: What to Expect
Flying from Tijuana to cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Cancún is considered a domestic flight within Mexico. That means:
No U.S. customs before departure
You’ll go through Mexican customs on return
Just like any other airport in Mexico, you’ll present your documents, clear security, and go straight to your gate.
Returning to the U.S. via CBX
When you land back in Tijuana, follow the CBX signage to the re-entry area. You’ll walk the same pedestrian bridge back into the U.S. and go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
With Global Entry, I was through in under 10 minutes. Even regular passport lines moved efficiently.
Pros of Using CBX and Tijuana Airport
✅ Pros:
Lower airfare for Mexico and South America
Easy and secure border crossing
Shorter wait times than U.S. airports
Clean, modern terminal
Safe, gated parking options
Affordable CBX tickets and parking
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind:
You must have a TIJ boarding pass to use CBX
No same-day walk-ins for flights—arrive 2–3 hours early
Make sure to fill out your FMM (tourist card) in advance
CBX Travel Tips for First-Time Users
Book CBX tickets online for quicker access
Download your airline’s app to show boarding passes easily
Check visa rules if you’re not a U.S. or Mexican citizen
Travel with carry-on only to avoid baggage wait times
Use Global Entry or Mobile Passport if available
Final Verdict: Is CBX Worth It? Absolutely.
Whether you’re flying to Cabo, Cancun, or Colombia, using CBX to fly out of Tijuana Airport is a game-changer for Southern California travelers. It’s cheaper, easier, and faster than dealing with the major U.S. airports nearby.
I saved money, skipped the stress, and started my vacation with zero headaches. Next time you’re planning a trip south of the border, consider CBX—your wallet and your sanity will thank you.