Can you stay overnight at the Mexico City Airport?
Find out if you can stay overnight at Mexico City Airport, the most comfortable areas, nearby accommodations, and tips for your wait.
Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) is the busiest in the country and one of the most important in Latin America. With flights running day and night, it is common for travelers to spend the night at the airport because of long layovers, missed connections, or very early departures. If that is your situation and you want to know where you can stay overnight at Mexico City airport, keep reading.
In this guide, you will find the best spots to rest inside the airport, the services you can take advantage of while you wait, and nearby accommodation options if you would rather stay outside. We also share practical tips to help you get through the night as comfortably as possible.

Can you sleep at Benito Juárez Airport?
Yes, you can spend the night at Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), whether you are in Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. Conditions, however, depend on the area and the time of day. The airport is open around the clock, and while there are no rules against staying in the waiting areas, keep in mind that the available space and overall atmosphere are not always the most comfortable for getting some real rest overnight.
Some areas are better suited for resting than others. You will find a few seats without armrests, quiet corners with softer lighting, and busier spots near the security checkpoints. Security staff do regular rounds at night, but they usually leave people alone as long as you are respectful and not blocking walkways.
There isn’t an official rule that says you can sleep at the airport, but frequent travelers agree it’s not forbidden. It’s actually quite common to see people resting there, especially during overnight layovers.
Sleeping at Benito Juárez Airport
Spending the night at Benito Juárez Airport can be a practical option if you have a layover or an early morning flight. It’s not exactly built for a good night’s sleep, but many travelers prefer it over paying for a hotel or dealing with a late-night ride across the city. With the right prep, you can still get a few hours of decent rest while you wait.
Tips for sleeping at Benito Juárez Airport
If you’re planning to spend the night at the airport, a little strategy goes a long way. Try to arrive early enough to scout out a decent spot before the good ones fill up. The quieter corners tend to disappear fast, especially around 11 pm to midnight when most travelers start looking for somewhere to rest.
Keep your bags close at all times. Many travelers use them as a pillow, secure them with a strap, or if you prefer, leave them at the luggage storage service in Terminal 1 near Gate 7. This option does come with a fee.
If security asks, just explain that you are waiting for a flight or a connection. They usually do not mind as long as you stay in common areas and do not block walkways.
What should you pack if you plan to sleep at Benito Juárez Airport?
To improve your sleeping experience at the airport, we recommend including some basic items in your carry-on luggage:
- Neck pillow or inflatable pillow
- Lightweight blanket
- Earplugs and eye mask
- Portable charger (ideal if there are few outlets available)
- Snacks or water, especially if you arrive late at night when most stores are closed.
- Comfortable clothing or a sweatshirt: Air conditioning can make the environment cold, even in summer.
A basic kit like this can make the difference between an uncomfortable night and a more peaceful wait.

Recommended places to sleep inside the airport
Some areas of Benito Juárez Airport are better suited for resting than others. Terminal 1 tends to be more spacious and has more seats without armrests, making it easier to stretch out. Some travelers suggest:
- Area near Gate 9 (arrivals area, Terminal 1): Little traffic during the night
- Corridor between halls B and D: Usually darker and quieter
- Near gates 30 to 36 (Terminal 1): Less noise and some carpeted areas
- Terminal 2, airline check-in area: Brighter but with seats without armrests
Bring something to block out noise and light. While the airport does not have an official free rest area, the constant security presence helps you feel safer.
Capsules or similar for sleeping at the airport
Benito Juárez Airport offers an express-style capsule hotel called IZZ Sleep. It is located in Terminal 1, in the domestic area near gate F2, making it a convenient option if you have an early flight.
Features of IZZ Sleep:
- Individual capsules with bed, air conditioning, television, and power outlets
- Access to shared bathroom and shower (towel included)
- Service by the hour or full night
Estimated rates:
- From $15 per hour
- Full night from $85
It’s a great option if you prefer privacy or just want to rest without any stress. Overnight bookings are only available on their website, and showers or nap spaces are subject to availability.
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Sleeping near Benito Juárez Airport
If you want to skip the discomfort of sleeping inside the airport, the area around Benito Juárez offers plenty of accommodation options for every budget. From hotels with free airport transfers to more affordable choices like Airbnb or Couchsurfing, you can rest close by without dealing with long rides. Here are some well-located options with estimated prices and tips for getting around.
Recommended hotels near Benito Juárez Airport
Within a three-kilometer radius of the airport, you’ll find several well-known hotel chains as well as independent accommodations offering shuttle service and 24-hour check-in. Here are some popular choices:
Courtyard by Marriott Mexico City Airport
- Inside Terminal 1
- From $132
- Ideal for those seeking comfort without leaving the airport. It has direct access from the pedestrian bridge.
Camino Real Airport
- Opposite Terminal 1, connected by a tunnel
- From $106
- Features a swimming pool, restaurant, gym, and shuttle service.
Airport Hotel
- 5 minutes by car from Terminal 1
- From $53
- Economical and functional. Offers free 24-hour shuttle service.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during high season or if you arrive early in the morning.
Couchsurfing options near Benito Juárez Airport
For budget travelers looking for a more local experience, Couchsurfing can be a good choice. While there aren’t many hosts right by the airport, you can find options in neighborhoods such as:
- Venustiano Carranza (10-15 minutes from the airport)
- Colonia Moctezuma
- Jardín Balbuena and Agrícola Oriental
These neighborhoods are well connected by public transport and are popular with travelers. Always check host reviews, contact them in advance, and make sure they can accommodate you at night or during unusual hours.
Couchsurfing is free, but we recommend bringing a small gift or contributing in some way as a token of appreciation.

Airbnb options near the airport
Within 5 to 20 minutes of the airport, you can find private rooms and apartments on Airbnb at very reasonable prices. Some recommended neighborhoods include:
- Colonia Romero Rubio: Accommodations from $21
- Jardín Balbuena: Modern spaces from $29
- Pantitlán or Mixiuhca: Good access by metro and prices from $19
Many hosts offer self check-in, which is perfect if you arrive late. Just make sure the place has good reviews, is in a safe and well-lit area, and that transportation options are available if you need to get around in the early hours.
Transportation tips for getting to hotels, couchsurfing, or Airbnb
Benito Juárez Airport is well connected, but depending on the time of day and the type of accommodation you choose, you will need to plan how to get around:
- Free hotel transportation: Many hotels offer shuttle service every 30 minutes. Check with your hotel to find out how to request it.
- Authorized airport taxis: Safe but more expensive. Avoid informal services.
- Uber and DiDi: Work well but the meeting point varies. Follow the instructions in the app to avoid confusion.
- Mexico City Metro (Line 5, Terminal Aérea station): Operates from 5:00 am to 12:00 am It is useful if you are staying in nearby areas, but not recommended in the early hours of the morning.
- Metrobús Line 4: Connects the airport with the city center and other neighborhoods, operating from 4:30 am.
Additional tip: If you arrive in the early hours of the morning and cannot find public transportation, plan to stay inside the airport or choose a hotel with transportation included.
Frequently asked questions about sleeping at Mexico City Airport
Yes, the airport is open 24 hours, and many travelers spend the night there during layovers or late flights. It is allowed as long as you do not block walkways or disturb others.
Overall, yes. Security staff and constant surveillance are in place, but it is still wise to keep your belongings close and stick to well-lit, busy areas.
There are no free public showers, but some VIP lounges and rest pods like IZZ Sleep offer bathroom and shower facilities with controlled access.
The quietest spots are in Terminal 1, around gates 30 to 36 and in the arrivals area. Look for benches without armrests or less crowded corners.
Services such as Uber or authorized taxis are available 24 hours a day. The metro and Metrobús only operate from 5:00 am.