Volaris Flight Requirements: Everything You Need to Know
Planning a trip and considering flying with Volaris? As one of Mexico’s largest low-cost carriers, Volaris offers affordable flight options throughout North and Central America. However, it’s important to understand the airline’s requirements so you can prepare appropriately and have a smooth travel experience.
Booking and Check-In
When booking your Volaris flight, keep in mind that tickets must be purchased at least 7 days before departure. You can book online at the Volaris website or via travel sites like Expedia. Be sure to have valid identification ready, as this is required for check-in and boarding.
Check-in opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. You can check in online, via the Volaris app, or at the airport kiosks or ticket counters. It’s best to check in as early as possible, as seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Showing up too close to departure time runs the risk of missing your flight or getting a less desirable seat.
Baggage Allowance
Knowing your baggage limits is critical when flying Volaris. Most domestic one-way flights allow one carry-on bag up to 15 lbs and one personal item like a purse or laptop bag. Checked bags must be paid separately – typical rates are around $30-40 each way within Mexico.
On international flights from the U.S. or Canada into Mexico, you get one carry-on and one checked bag up to 44 lbs included in the ticket price. Additional or overweight bags cost extra. Do note that certain routes like to Central America have reduced baggage policies.
Boarding Pass and Identification
You must present a valid photo ID like a passport, driver’s license or voter ID along with your electronic or printed boarding pass to enter the gate area. From my experience, airport staff thoroughly check documents at Volaris gates.
Make sure to have your identification and boarding pass readily accessible on your mobile device or printed before arriving at the airport. The last thing you want is a delay if you can’t quickly produce the required documentation.
Airport Arrival Timelines
To avoid stress, I recommend arriving at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international trips. This allows a buffer in case of delays getting through security or checking any bags.
Volaris operates on an aggressive timeline, as the quick turnaround helps keep costs low. Flights may begin boarding as little as 30 minutes before departure. If you arrive late, you risk forfeiting your seat even if it’s only minutes before pushback.
Cabin Accessibility
Wheelchairs and walkers are permitted in the cabin as carry-on items. Due to limited overhead bin space, only one mobility device per passenger is allowed. For larger devices, check with the airline about stowing options in the cargo hold.
If you have reduced mobility or require special assistance, notify Volaris during booking so arrangements can be made at the airport. However, the aircraft may not have equipment like onboard lifts for getting into the cabin without using stairs. Plan accordingly.
Food and Beverages
On domestic Mexican flights, only water is provided free of charge. Pack snacks if you need food during the trip. Dehydration is a risk on Volaris with its limited refreshments.
On international routes however, a light snack or sandwich could be included depending on flight duration. Alcoholic drinks, gourmet meals and coffee/tea are available for purchase.
Advance Preparation Tips
- Check your government’s travel advisories for destination countries.
- Review Volaris’ policies, procedures and aircraft types before booking.
- Pack light if possible to avoid checked bag fees.
- Download the carrier’s app for easy check-in and boarding pass access.
- Sign up for flight status alerts to avoid missing connections.
Hopefully this overview of Volaris flight requirements answered your questions! Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional intents I missed covering.
Common Issues And How To Prepare
While Volaris aims to get passengers to their destination on time and hassle-free, delays and disruptions can occasionally occur due to unforeseen circumstances like weather, traffic or mechanical problems.
Here are some situations I’ve faced when flying Volaris and tips to make the experience less stressful:
Delayed or cancelled flights: Sign up for flight alerts and keep vital medications, snacks and changes of clothes in your carry-on in case of long airport waits. Tweak travel plans accordingly if delays could cause you to miss transit connections.
Lost or damaged luggage: Pack any necessities in your cabin bag and carry valuables like electronics, medications and important documents onboard rather than check them. Take photos of contents and file a lost baggage claim immediately if your bags go missing.
Seatmates not respecting space: Fly with a buffer seat if possible as legroom is tight. Politely request seatmates observe personal space if they get too cozy. Bring distractions like music or a book to better tolerate cramped conditions.
With the proper prep work and realistic expectations, you can enjoy affordable Volaris service. But trips don’t always go perfectly – focus on what you can control and roll with life’s little surprises!
Let me know if any other Volaris flying experiences or advice could help make your travels smoother. Wishing you bon voyage!
Volaris Flight Requirements
Item | Requirement |
---|---|
Boarding pass | Printed or on your phone – required for check-in and boarding |
Checked baggage | 1 bag up to 15kg included – $40 fee per bag over 15kg |
Carry-on bag | Max size 45x35x25cm – 1 bag plus personal item like laptop bag or purse |
Seating | Assigned during online check-in starting 48 hours before flight |
Boarding | Board in group order starting with Preferencia groups then numbers |
Changes | Flight changes have fee if within 7 days of original travel |
Cancellations | Non-refundable if within 1 day of travel – may receive credit for future flight |
FAQ
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Do I need a passport to fly with Volaris?
Indeed, you’ll generally need a valid passport if you’re flying with Volaris outside of Mexico. However, if you’re traveling within Mexico, a driver’s license or birth certificate might be enough ID. It’s best to check Volaris’ website for up-to-date rules on ID requirements for your specific route.
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What are the baggage rules on Volaris flights?
Volaris allows you to bring one personal item like a purse or backpack that fits under the seat, in addition to one carry-on bag that has to be checked at the gate. You’ll need to pay extra fees for checked bags or if your carry-on exceeds the size limits. But maybe you can pack light and avoid baggage costs!
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Is it worth paying extra for a reserved seat on Volaris?
While reserving a seat in advance on Volaris costs additional money, it kinda ensures you won’t end up with a middle seat assignment. At the same time, you might get lucky at the gate and snag a good seat for free. It depends how much value you put on comfort and choosing your seat ahead of time.
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Will there be food for sale on my Volaris flight?
Generally there will be a limited selection of snacks and drinks you can buy on Volaris planes during flights. However, the options may be pretty basic like pretzels, chips and soda unless it’s a long haul. It’s safest to eat before your trip or bring your own food just in case.
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What documents do you need for traveling to different countries?
Travel documents needed will vary depending on where you’re going. For instance, Europe usually requires your passport be valid for at least 90 days after travel dates. For the U.S. and Canada, a passport is sufficient. But perhaps check Volaris or embassy websites for detailed visa and passport rules concerning your destination.
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How do I check-in for a Volaris flight?
Most commonly you can check-in online 24-48 hours before departure or at the airport counters. Making sure to check-in on time certainly helps avoid long lines and issues. Early check-in ensures your place is reserved aboard!
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Does Volaris offer Wi-Fi on flights?
While Volaris flights don’t currently provide Wi-Fi internet access, perhaps someday soon they will bring this technology to their planes. Until then, you’ll need to download any work or entertainment beforehand. By the way, has anyone used airplane Wi-Fi successfully before?