I flew to Cancun for a vlog. Mexican Customs (Aduana) seized my drone at the airport because I didn’t have a permit. They demanded a $500 “tax” to release it. Later, I crashed it on the beach. My US insurance said, “We don’t cover Mexico.”
Key Takeaways
- Territory Limits: US policies cover the USA. They do not cover Mexico or other countries without a specific “Worldwide Territory Extension” endorsement.
- Customs Seizure: Insurance covers “Theft,” not “Government Seizure.” If Customs takes your drone, that is an excluded peril. You get $0.
- Local Liability Laws: Mexico requires liability insurance issued by a Mexican Insurance Company. Your US policy is legally invalid in Mexico. If you hit someone, you go to Mexican jail until you pay.
- Carnet: To avoid customs seizure, you need an ATA Carnet (passport for goods) for professional gear, or declare it properly.
The “Why” (The Trap): “Government Action” Exclusion
Property policies exclude: “Seizure or destruction of property by order of governmental authority.”
If Customs takes it, it’s not stolen. It’s seized.
The insurer will not pay for the drone or the bribe (“tax”) to get it back.
The Investigation: “I Called Them”
I checked international options.
1. Standard SkyWatch
- Territory: USA only.
- Extension: Can purchase Canada/UK. Mexico is harder due to local laws.
2. Thimble
- Territory: USA only.
3. Mexican Tourist Auto/Liability
- Workaround: Some Mexican tourist policies allow adding “Personal Liability,” but they usually exclude aircraft.
- Solution: Fly under a local production company’s permit/insurance if working professionally.
Comparison Table: Mexico Risks
| Incident | US Policy | Mexican Policy |
| Crash into Car | Denied (Territory) | Covered |
| Customs Seizure | Denied (Gov Action) | Denied |
| Theft from Hotel | Covered (If Worldwide Hull) | N/A |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Leave the Pro Gear: If you don’t have a work permit, take a Mini (under 250g). Customs is lenient on “toys” vs. “Professional Equipment” (Inspire/Mavic 3).
- Get Worldwide Hull: Ensure your Hull coverage (theft/damage) is worldwide. This protects the asset even if liability is tricky.
- Buy Local Liability: If flying professionally, hire a local fixer who has the permits and insurance. Fly under their umbrella.
- Don’t Pay Bribes: If seized, get a receipt. Fight it legally or abandon the drone. Insurance won’t reimburse a bribe.
FAQ
Q: Does World Nomads travel insurance cover drones?
A: They cover the theft of the drone (as baggage), but strictly exclude liability for operating it.
Q: Can I mail the drone to the hotel?
A: No. Customs will hold the package. Carry on is safer.
[IMAGE: Map showing the border with “Coverage Stops Here” graphic.]