About packing: can I bring music cds? How much wine is allowed? Should I bother with small dollars for tipping?What do you think about TSA pre check?

Funny you ask about music cd’s. I’m not sure but if you look at the customs regulations I think it still specifies 30 cd’s and it’s been that way forever
Many years ago- mid/late 80s, I came to Mexico to work on my music.
I came with one of those binders which contained about 100cd’s.
I had no idea of the regulation at that time.
I also came with one of those portable sound systems of that era- I think
It was the KLH 20.
As we were arriving into Puerto Vallarta I read the back of the customs form and noted for the first time the restriction of 30. And I wasn’t sure my portable sound system would be allowed without duty.
Anyway luckily I hit green and had a very musical stay in Yelapa until I got dengue at the very end.
Enjoy your music…and your wine…

Atm's are easy to use and give the best exchange rates.

As of just a month or so ago, Inbursa has the lowest ATM fee. (Some of the banks charge outrageous ATM fees.) Inbursa is across the street from the Merza grocery store on Calle Ejido.

Inbursa Bank

Changing foreign currency is involved, for both visitors and residents requires going to a bank with proper ID, at the right times. So, please don't use foreign currency.

You can normally change your currency at the airports without documentation but you get raped financially.

Please do not plan to use any currency other than pesos. Atm's are easy to use and give the best exchange rates. Changing foreign currency is involved, for both visitors and residents requires going to a bank with proper ID, at the right times. So, please don't use foreign currency. Foreign coins have no value at all, they cannot be exchanged for pesos.

Enjoy your visit!

Although I tip very well in the inexpensive and medium price places, 20% is not a "standard" tip here.

About packing: can I bring music cds? How much wine is allowed? Should I bother with small dollars for tipping?What do you think about TSA pre check?

I'm sure you can bring CDs. There are some excellent Mexican wines available; no need to bring any. Don't tip with dollars. 20% in Pesos is pretty much standard. Pre-check lets you get through a little faster.