Do You Need a Car Seat in Mexico? What Parents Should Know Before Traveling

Car Seat Laws in Mexico: What the Rules Actually Say

If you're planning a family vacation to Cancún, Puerto Morelos, or Playa del Carmen, you're probably asking the question: “Are car seats required in Mexico?”

The short answer: Technically yes, but enforcement is very inconsistent.

Mexico has laws around child restraints, but in practice, they are loosely enforced, especially in tourist areas. You might see local families driving with babies on laps, in the front seat, or even in vehicles without seat belts. This can be surprising (and even alarming) to visiting parents from the U.S. and Canada, where strict car seat laws and enforcement are the norm. While this may be culturally common, it doesn't mean it's safe — or what’s best for your own family. Safety should be the top priority, especially when you're far from home and medical care may not be immediately accessible in case of an accident.

Just Because It’s Legal Doesn’t Mean It’s Safe

While you may not get pulled over for not using a car seat, the bigger issue is safety. Road conditions in Mexico can vary, and taxis, colectivos (shared vans), and buses rarely offer seat belts or child safety seats.

As a parent, it comes down to your comfort level.

What Transportation Options Offer Car Seats?

Let’s break it down by how you might get around during your stay:

1. Public Transportation

Buses, colectivos, and most taxis do not have car seats and typically don’t have functioning seat belts. These are not ideal options for families with small children.

2. Private Airport Transfers & Tour Companies

Some private transportation companies may offer car seats — but you must request them in advance when booking. Many will not automatically include them unless asked.

👉 Puerto Baby Rentals partners with Lighthouse Tours, and we can guarantee a clean, age-appropriate car seat with any of their services — including airport pickups, drop-offs, and day tours.

3. Car Rentals

If you’re renting a car, most agencies will offer car seats for an additional daily fee, but:

• Inventory may be limited

• Seats may be outdated or poorly maintained

• They may not be available at smaller rental locations

  
  

💡 We recommend renting from Ron Haugen, a trusted local car rental provider who offers newer, well-maintained vehicles with everything included — insurance, taxes, and no hidden fees. Best of all, he’s easy to work with and genuinely cares about making your experience stress-free. When you rent from Ron, we can provide a clean, age-appropriate car seat as part of your setup. It’s a convenient, reliable way to explore the Riviera Maya safely with your family.

🍼 Puerto Baby Rentals also offers standalone car seat rentals for any other car rental provider — with delivery, installation guidance, and multiple seat styles for kids of all ages.

Ensure your child's safety on the road with car seat rentals from Puerto Baby Rentals, catering to all ages and weight ranges.

Should You Bring Your Own Car Seat or Rent One?

This is a hot topic in parenting forums — and the decision depends on your travel plans.

✅ Consider bringing your own car seat if:

• You’re very familiar with how to install it

• You plan to rent a car and drive daily

• You need your specific model for airline compatibility

✅ Consider renting a car seat in Mexico if:

• You don’t want to carry bulky gear

• You’re only using transportation occasionally

• You want professional setup and local convenience

If You’re Only Traveling from Airport to Hotel…

If your plan is to go straight from Cancún Airport to your all-inclusive hotel and spend your vacation poolside without leaving the property, you may not need to rent a car seat for your entire stay.

Why Safety Always Comes First

Even though Mexican law may not require car seats in practice, you know what’s best for your child. Whether you’re exploring cenotes, heading to the beach, or just riding from the airport to your hotel, a car seat gives your child a safe, secure ride — and gives you peace of mind. Even one ride without a car seat can be risky — especially on the highway between Cancún airport and Riviera Maya resorts.

We’ve helped hundreds of traveling families protect their littlest passengers while visiting the Riviera Maya. We clean and sanitize every seat before delivery, and we’ll help with installation if needed.

Final Thoughts – Travel Your Way, But Travel Safely

Travel light and safe. Reserve your car seat rental in Cancún, Puerto Morelos, or Playa del Carmen today — and we’ll take care of the rest.

📦 Available gear:

• Infant car seats

• Convertible car seats

• Booster seats

🚙 We deliver to hotels, vacation rentals, and the airport.

🍼 Questions? We’re parents too — we get it!

👉 Contact us today to reserve your car seat and any other baby gear!