tips for travelling in mexico

17 things to know before you go to Mexico

Oct 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Mexico offers enough travel experiences for a lifetime – here are our tips for making the most of your trip © Drazen_ / Getty Images

I grew up in a Mexican household in the heart of American suburbia, one of those kids who spent their childhood ping-ponging across the border. Summers meant Mexico , splitting my time between the north and west, as comfortable on janky city buses as I was body surfing on white capped waves. Adulthood meant more of the same, but instead of summer months, it was entire years, and instead of the north and west, it was the south and east. 

All these years later, I’m still awed by Mexico’s vastness and diversity, its showcase of unique landscapes, flavors, music and art. And yet, despite these differences, I see the tendrils that bind Mexico together everywhere: social customs and cultural gems, safety issues and travel trends. Here are a few tips to make navigating Mexico a little easier.

1. Book early and budget extra for the high season

Mexico is a popular destination year round but Christmas, New Year's, spring break and July see an uptick in travelers, both foreign and domestic. Expect higher prices for accommodation, excursions, car rentals and even airfare, sometimes double the norm. Hotels also fill up fast – book early, especially on the coasts where Mexicans tend to vacay.

2. Pack for the climate

Mexico is a vast, multi-climate country with destinations ranging from frosty mornings at 8700ft to balmy nights at sea level. Research your destination’s weather so you know what to expect and how to pack – you may need a bikini or umbrella or winter jacket (or all three!). Remember that Mexico sits squarely in the hurricane belt, with its coasts susceptible to big storms June to November.

3. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent

If you’ll need sunscreen or mosquito repellent , bring it from home. While you can find both in Mexico, the options are limited and expensive.

4. Use your ATM card

Though it’s good practice to bring some cash in case of an emergency (say, you lose your wallet), there’s no need to bring cash to exchange – use Mexican ATMs instead. They’re ubiquitous in all but the smallest of towns and are the most economical way to get pesos. But beware of ATM transaction fees! If they’re more than US$5/6 per withdrawal, use a different bank’s machine (BBVA Bancomer and Santander tend to have the lowest fees). Also, if the ATM prompts you to accept a "special" exchange rate, decline it; you’ll still be able to withdraw money, but the bank will apply the official exchange rate, which is always to your advantage.

5. Leave your bling at home

Avoid bringing flashy watches and jewelry to Mexico. If you wear them, you’ll risk standing out and becoming a target for pickpockets and scammers. Likewise, resist renting a luxury car, which is more likely to be broken into or stopped by officials.

6. Embrace long distance bus travel

Unless you need a car, take long distance buses to explore Mexico. Countless bus companies crisscross the country, providing reliable and efficient transport. Always opt for primera clase (first class) service, which is only slightly more expensive than segunda clase (second class), but much faster and vastly more comfortable with cushy reclining seats, individual screens, Wi-Fi and even snacks.

7. Say hello... even to passersby

Mexicans deeply value pleasantries – it’s a sign of respect. Saying " buenos dias " (good morning) or " buenas tardes " (good afternoon) when entering a room or a business is typical. When leaving, a quick " con permiso " (excuse me) is considered polite. And when meeting a person for the first time, a handshake with a " mucho gusto " (a great pleasure) is the go-to; if you know the person, a kiss on the cheek or a hug is expected.

8. Tip (almost) everyone

Tipping is an important source of income for most workers in Mexico, from the kid who "watches" your parked car to the concierge who provides specialized services. In general, tip 10% to 15% for waiters and tour guides, US$3 to US$10 per day for hotel housekeepers, US$2 to US$3 per bag for porters and US$0.25 to US$0.75 for parking attendants, grocery baggers and gas station attendants. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips but certainly welcome them!

9. Be a respectful photographer

No one likes a stranger suddenly aiming a camera at their face and taking a photo. Same goes for Mexicans, including (and especially) Indigenous Mexicans, who are too often targeted because of their traditional clothing. Instead of snapping a photo, approach the person and ask permission first. In marketplaces or for street vendors, buy something and then ask – it tends to grease the wheels.

10. Bargain with kindness

Haggling is a part of shopping in Mexico, especially in markets and at streetside stands. Often, prices are slightly inflated with that expectation. But be mindful of how hard you bargain. Those extra few pesos likely mean a lot more to the vendor than to you.

11. Carry small bills and coins 

While credit cards are becoming increasingly common, Mexico remains a predominantly cash economy. Be sure to carry pesos in your pocket! The smaller the denomination, the better – despite the use of cash, change is often scarce. You’ll either be left waiting for the vendor to break a bill or, worse, be turned away.

12. Avoid places where things can go wrong fast

With so much news about cartel violence in Mexico, safety is a common concern. Generally, violent crime is cartel-on-cartel – tourists aren’t targets. It’s always possible, though, to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. To play it safe, steer clear of drugs (either buying, using or being around people who are partaking) and avoid fringe neighborhoods. If you’re traveling in cartel hotbeds (say, Sonora or Michoacán ), turn in early, travel by day and take toll roads.

13. Be alert to petty theft

When tourists experience crime in Mexico, it’s typically petty theft. Like most places around the world, it’s just a fact of life. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets or city buses where pickpockets tend to strike.

Leave your jewelry at home and avoid displaying large sums of cash, too. You’ll risk standing out and becoming a target for pickpockets and scammers. Wearing clothes with deep or zippered pockets also helps. If your hotel room doesn’t have a safe, lock your valuables in your luggage – those little TSA locks are real deterrents. Likewise, resist renting a luxury car, which is more likely to be broken into or stopped by officials.

14. Don’t drink the water

It’s true what they say – don’t drink the water in Mexico or even brush your teeth with it. While tap water is purified at the source, it picks up contaminants traveling through pipes. Instead, use bottled water. And don’t worry about ice at restaurants and bars – it’s made from purified water at commercial factories.

15. Eat street food

Eating street food – sizzling tacos, elote  (grilled corn) in a cup, sweet and crunchy marquesitas  (sweet crepes) – is one of those Mexican must-dos . Seek out stands with a crowd – they’re a litmus test for safe-to-eat-at spots. But be sure to take a hard pass on the extras like mayo and cream; they often sit in the sun for hours, unrefrigerated and creating a perfect bacteria breeding ground.

16. Opt for rideshares

Mexican taxi drivers are notorious for scamming tourists, known for inflating their rates or rerouting passengers to locales where they can collect commissions. When possible, opt for a rideshare like Uber, which has reliable service at rates that are often cheaper than taxis. If you must use a cab, agree on a price before you step in.

17. Remember your embassy

If you’re a victim of crime, or need medical assistance or legal help, contact your embassy or consulate. Almost 90 countries, including the US and Canada , have representatives in Mexico to help you navigate problems abroad.

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54 Mexico Travel Tips To Know Before You Go

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Mexico is one of my favorite countries. It boasts delicious food, vibrant culture, tons of history and some of the best beaches in the world!

Mexico’s landscapes range from the Caribbean Coast to the lush jungles in the south to mountains in the middle and deserts up north. It’s a country that takes time and effort to explore, and that is why so many travelers keep coming back here.

After spending time in different parts of the country, I created a list of Mexico travel tips to help you plan your adventure.

This article offers insights into the country’s culture, helps you to save and covers some of the most common mistakes that many tourists make while traveling the country.

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1. Rent a car. But watch out for scams

Renting a car is the best way to see Mexico: you get to see many places off the beaten track and travel at your own pace. Sounds awesome, right?

👉 But before you rent a car in Mexico, there are a few things you should know.

First, stay away from low bait-and-switch offers that advertise prices as low as $5-10 per day. Many times, this too-good-to-be-true price is only a shield for an exorbitant rate that involves car insurance and fees.

To avoid mistakes and save money, read my complete guide to renting a car in Mexico 🚗

A contract attached to a car rental agreement specifies what your rate is going to cover. If you have questions, ask your car rental company to make sure you understand what you are paying for.

Whether you want to explore the Yucatan Peninsula , Baja California or take a road trip through Chiapas , rent a car with Discover Cars that has affordable rates and good inventory in many destinations in Mexico.

I rented my cars from Discover Cars several times, and always loved their service and affordable rates.

2. Haggling is not a thing in Mexico. But you can try it

Haggling isn’t a thing in Mexico, but you can still try it, depending on the situation. For example, you could try to lower a price a bit while getting a taxi or buying a souvenir from a street vendor.

👉 When taking a taxi in Mexico, always negotiate a price upfront. Most taxi drivers in Mexico are willing to haggle at least a little bit, so if a rate seems high, ask to lower it before agreeing on the final price . 

3. Good hotels in Mexico don’t have to be expensive

Spending your entire vacation is one of the worst mistakes in Mexico.

The country has some of the most amazing deals on all-inclusive hotels in places like Cancun , Cabo San Lucas , and Puerto Vallarta . While these places have great buffets, and relaxing spas, you don’t have to spend all your money to stay there. 

Mid-range and even budget hotels in Mexico can be great stays, so always check your options. My favorite websites for finding great bargains on hotels in Mexico are Hotels.com and Agoda.com.

4. Avoid the high season in Mexico

Depending on the time of your visit to Mexico, prices on hotels can fluctuate greatly.

For example, coastal areas like Baja California , Nayarit and the Rivera Maya have the highest prices on hotels and tours from December through April, when the weather is dry and sunny, and many visitors from colder climates seek warm getaways.

If possible, plan your trip during the shoulder season from November through early December and from April through late May to get good deals.

5. Take colectivos in Mexico to save money

Colectivos are small shared vans that are a great if you are looking to save some cash. ADO buses can get you around Mexico, as they have routes in many regions of the country, but colectivos are mostly local and can get you from one town to another for a relatively small price (20 to 50 Mexican Pesos).

Colectivos are common in Yucatan, but you can also find them in other places like Chiapas and Oaxaca.

6. Not all ATM’s in Mexico are equal

Not all ATM’s in Mexico are the same when it comes to commissions. Some banks like HSBC can charge high fees upward of 70 Mexican Pesos per transaction. 

Santander and Banko Azteca ATM’s have lower fees (just over 30 Pesos per transaction), and they are easy to find around airports, bus stations, and other major areas.

7. Always carry Mexican Pesos

One of my main Mexico tips is to always have Mexican Pesos in your wallet.

While some businesses accept credit cards (or tarjetas in Spanish) in tourist zones, you should always carry Mexican Pesos with you.

This is especially true if you plan to take a road trip or stop in one of Mexico’s small towns where credit cards might be accepted only in select stores and restaurants.

Street vendors and local artisans in Mexican mercados (or markets) accept only cash. 

8. … Because cash is still king in many parts of the country

You are going to traverse rural areas with limited options for food and services while traveling around Mexico, and it’s essential to have at least some cash in your pocket.

I’ve taken many road trips around Mexico, some of which took over 10 hours, and most of the time the only way to pay for food, bathrooms and everything else on the road was with cash. 

9. Eat where locals eat 

When visiting popular destinations in Mexico, try to eat where locals eat.

Popular areas have many restaurants, but prices there are often geared toward tourists and tend to be much higher than in restaurants frequented by locals. Eating in local restaurants is the best way to experience the Mexican gastronomy, and you will avoid paying high prices of popular tourist spots.

Get My 25 Tips On How To Stay Safe In Mexico (and avoid tourist scams)

Mexico tips: culture.

10. Get outside tourist zone

Getting outside of your comfort zone is one of my main tips for visiting the country.  

It could be very tempting to spend your entire vacation in the comfort zone of Cancun or Cabo San Lucas all-inclusive resorts , but I don’t recommend doing it for one simple reason:

You will miss out on Mexico’s cultural landmarks. 

Mexico is full of historical sites, wonderful cities, and Mayan ruins where you can learn the country’s pre-colonial history, interact with locals, and taste regional Mexican dishes.

While you can explore Mexico by public transportation or take, renting a car will give you the most freedom and flexibility. One of my top picks is DiscoverCars , that has flexible terms and ho hidden fees.

11. Pueblos Magicos are musts!

When you travel around Mexico, visit at least one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos, or Magic Towns designated by the Mexican government because of their heritage and significance to the country’s culture.

When you visit these places, expect fewer businesses catering exclusively to tourists and more local flair which makes for an awesome cultural trip. 

There are over 130 Pueblos Magicos in Mexico, and if you want to visit them, check my list of the best Pueblos Magicos.

12. Don’t forget to visit Mexico City 

Most people think about Mexico, they picture sun-drenched beaches and all-day margaritas. 

But Mexico is so much more than that! 

One destination that was overlooked in the past, but has become particularly popular is Mexico City.

The Mexican capital has emerged as one of the hottest destinations in Latin America with an incredible food scene, world-class museums and historic landmarks. Visiting Mexico City is one of my top tips for Mexico travel, if you want to learn the history of the country and better understand its culture.

I suggest no less than 5 days in Mexico City because there is too much to do here and you can take many day trips to see historic and natural landmarks within 1-2 hours from Mexico City. 

13. Shop at artisan markets in Mexico

Artisan markets in Mexico are part of the cultural experience 😊

Here you can buy everything from colorful textiles, handmade jewelry and clothing to home goods and so much more!

GOOD TO KNOW: Most popular destinations in the country like Mexico City, Oaxaca or San Cristobal De Las Casas have at least artisan market, but even resort towns like Playa del Carmen , Tulum or Puerto Vallarta have designated areas for artisans where you can buy handcraft goods and souvenirs.

Buying artisan goods is an excellent way to support local economy and make sure that your money goes to the people who live and work in the area. 

14. Try regional Mexican dishes

Besides the famous staples such as tacos , burritos , and guacamole , Mexico boasts delicious regional cuisines in states like Oaxaca, Puebla and Yucatan that you shouldn’t miss.

Skipping local cuisine is one of the worst mistakes in Mexico, especially if you are staying in a big resort where everything is catered to you.

15. … And don’t skip some street food too

From tacos to churros and marquesitas (crispy crepes filled with chocolates or fruits) to delicious corn, Mexico has tons of delicious street food (la comida callejera in Spanish). Go ahead and treat your taste buds to some regional delicacies!

This might not be one of the most obvious Mexico travel tips but it’s important because you will get to try something delicious and support local vendors.

16. Mexican food can be VERY spicy

As someone who didn’t grow up eating spicy dishes, I have to warn you that food in Mexico can be super spicy.

One time I ordered a vegan pizza that had a flaming hot sauce on top of it, and it was the hottest pizza I’ve ever tried in my life! 🔥

When you go to a Mexican restaurant, always ask about how spicy your food will be. Your server will most likely bring three types of salsa ranging from mild, medium mild and very spicy. If you like hot food, trying them might be fun, but if you are like me, make sure to ask for non-spicy options.  

17. Learn Spanish

Most people who work in Mexico’s tourism industry speak at least the basic level of English, but …

Speaking at least some Spanish can go a long way! 

The further you get from the tourist zone, the less English you should expect. What’s great about visiting these places is that you can see the real Mexico!

When it comes to Mexico travel, many people are concerned about safety, but speaking the language makes you feel a lot safer as you can communicate and properly assess a situation. 😉

Grab a couple of textbooks and get your Spanish game on! 

18. Mayan ruins are excellent for learning history

Mexico is a heaven for history buffs with thousands of ancient ruins, some which date 2,500-3,000 years back.

Before the arrival of Spanish conquistadores in the 16th century, Mexico was populated by Mayan people, among other indigenous groups, and the Mayan heritage is deeply entrenched into the country’s identity. 

If you don’t have a car rental , the best way to explore Mayan ruins is by taking guided tours. Get Your Guide offers daily trips to some of the best archaeological areas in Mexico.

While you probably heard about the UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of The World, Mexico has many less famous Mayan ruins like Coba that are just as impressive and important.

Best Mayan ruins in Mexico

• Calakmul – One of Mexico’s most impressive Mayan ruins in the state of Campeche
• Ek Balam – A less visited Mayan ruin site near Valladolid
• Kohunlich – A Mayan ruin site about one hour away from Bacalar
• Muyil  – A small but a very cool archaeological area near Tulum that sees very few tourists compared to the famous Tulum ruins
• Uxmal – A Mayan ruins site near Merida , that is also part of the Puuc Route that has other ruins and cenotes
• Palenque – My favorite Mayan ruin site in Chiapas

19. Take a dip in cenotes

If you visit Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, don’t forget to take a dip in one of cenotes, water-filled caverns.

While some of the cenotes are above the ground, others are underground with many stalactites and stalagmites. Many of Mexico’s cenotes have options for snorkeling, and some even offer diving, like Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum. 

Check my complete guide to some of the best cenotes near Tulum – some of the best cenotes in Mexico!

Swimming in Mexico’s cenotes is a unique experience that you will not get anywhere else in the world.

GOOD TO KNOW : Most cenotes in Mexico have entrance fees that have to be paid in cash. Many of them also offer lockers and snorkeling equipment for a small fee. 

20. Show good manners

Most Mexican people are friendly and willing to help, especially when they see that you are a foreigner visiting their country. 

They might be pitching tours or trying to sell you souvenirs, but besides this pushy attitude, they are nice and will answer any question you have.

Make sure to show good manners though.

While Mexican people are relaxed and informal, manners and politeness play a big role in the Mexican culture.

For example, strangers will address to you as usted (a polite form of you in Spanish), and staff will always greet you in stores and restaurants. You will often hear “Provecho” when you are dining out in restaurants, and you should do the same.

Helpful phrases in Spanish

To make things easier, I put together a list of the most common phrases in Spanish . Please let me know if you have questions or want to know any other Mexico travel tips related to the language 😉

• Buenos Dias – Good Morning 
• Buenas Tardes – Good Afternoon
• Buenas Noches – Good Night 
• Adios – Goodbye 
• Gracias – Thank you 
• Por Favor – Please 
• No entiendo/no comprendo – I don’t understand 
• Lo siento – Sorry 
• Disculpe – Excuse me
• Hasta luego – See you later
• La cuenta, por favor – Can I have a bill, please?
• Donde es? – Where is …?
• Derecho – right 
• Izquerda – left 
• Pagar con tarjeta/efectivo – to pay with card/cash 

21. Dress conservative in bigger cities

Don’t go to Central Mexico cities rocking your jean shorts and a crop top. This applies to both men and women. Sorry guys, I’m not sure what men fashion is like these days, but I hope you get the point.

Central Mexico is just one example.

Inland cities in Mexico like Puebla have a more conservative way of dressing, and you should bring some jeans, medium-length dresses and other clothes that to cover your legs and shoulders to avoid strange looks and unwanted attention. 

22. Use the right bathroom

The letter M stands for “mujeres” which is women in Spanish. The letter C stands for “caballeros” which means gentlemen in Spanish. This might not be obvious right away, but bathrooms in public places like restaurants and museums are generally well marked.

23. … And don’t throw paper in toilet

The general rule in Mexico is that you don’t throw any paper in a toilet. This is because the drainage systems in many parts of Mexico are very old and could quickly break down if they become clogged.

Many hotels have clear signs about it, but it might not be the case everywhere you go, so keep it in mind.

24. The concept of time is different in Mexico

Mexican people like to use the word “ahorita,” which means right now. But when someone tells you “ahorita” it doesn’t mean that something will happen this very second, or in the next couple of minutes.

“Ahorita” could mean as little as a couple of minutes to a few hours, depending on the context. To avoid frustration, don’t expect that you will get something instantly when someone tells you “ahorita.”

25. Don’t assume things start on time in Mexico

If you are coming to Mexico from a Western country, be aware that that things rarely start on time. Mexican concept of time is more similar to Latin American countries than the United States or Western Europe.

If your tour is running 10 to 15 minutes late, or your appointment is late, this is nothing unusual. Don’t get upset or try to complain, simply accept it and go with the flow.

MEXICO SAFETY TIPS

26. Get travel insurance

You shouldn’t leave your home and get on a road without comprehensive travel insurance.

Nobody goes on a trip expecting bad things to happen, but you never know what might occur on your next adventure.

World Nomads Insurance covers hospital visits, accidents, lost and damaged luggage as well as personal belongings, among other things. Those travelers who plan to stay in Mexico for an extended period of time, should consider Safety Wing , one of the best insurance options for long term travel.

27. Be ready for check points

If you are going on a road trip in Mexico, be prepared to drive through check points.

The government of Mexico takes many measures to keep the country safe, especially around tourist corridors, so it’s not uncommon to drive through military check points. 

It might be intimidating, but unless you manage to draw some suspicion, you will be most likely asked to show your passport. Be polite, answer questions and be ready to open your vehicle for an inspection.

28. Not all of Mexico is dangerous

Is mexico safe to visit.

This is one of most common question that I get when I try to give someone one of my tips for Mexico. Taking into account the amount of bad press, the question isn’t surprising.

Mexico gets a lot of bad rep because of its problems with cartel violence. 

Popular areas of Mexico are a lifeline of the country’s economy and are protected. That being said, crime does occur even in popular areas, and you should always be aware of your surroundings, no matter what part of Mexico you visit.

Check the situation in the place you plan to visit. Educate yourself on recent events and decide if visiting it is safe. If you are traveling to Mexico from the United States,  check the U.S. Embassy Advisory for the most up-to-date information.

👉 Your travel safety is your responsibility.

29. Watch out for scams

As a rule, if something looks to be too good to be true, it probably is. Always follow your instincts and don’t let anyone pressure you into doing something!

Some of the most common Mexican scams are fake guides at entrances of major tourist areas trying to convince you that the only way tom visit is with a guided tour.

Another common scam in Mexico are unregistered taxis that are sometimes operated by professional criminals. Instead of hailing a cab, get a ride through Uber or other ride sharing app.

Finally, stay away from overly enthusiastic sales agents at airports and other areas frequented by tourists. They typically to sell you a time share with free breakfast, transportation and other cool “perks” that often come at super high prices.

30. Use ATM’s associated only with major banks 

Since carrying cash is one of my main Mexico travel tips, let’s also talk about ATM’s.

Although tourist scams in Mexico are not that common, one place where you can sometimes encounter them are ATM’s (or cajeros electronicos in Spanish).

Use ONLY ATMs associated with major banks like Santander , Scotia Bank or Banco Azteca to avoid trouble.

Avoid ATM’s that can be sometimes found in walls of random buildings. Criminals target these types of ATM’s by placing skimming devices trying to steal financial information from the debit and credit cards. 

31. Skip tap water

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. This is a universal rule that you should always keep in mind while traveling the country.

Always buy bottled water when you travel around Mexico. Some hotels in Mexico offer free water in their lobbies, so don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottle.

32. Know how to drive in Mexico

Exploring Mexico by car is a lot of fun, and you can have one of the best experiences of your life visiting different regions of the country. But before you get on the road, here’s what you need to know:

• Watch out for topes (or speed bumps)  Speed bumps are common in many parts of Mexico especially around pedestrian crossings and bus stations.
• Don’t pump your own gas.  Mexican gas stations have attendants who put gas in your car when you get to the pump. Specify how much gas you need and clarify the price.
• Leave a tip . Many of the people who help you pump gas make only minimum wage, and it’s good to leave a little tip before leaving.
• Mexico uses kilometers. One mile equals to about 1.6 kilometers

33. Drive during the day

Depending on the region of Mexico, it’s a good idea to limit driving to day time. Some parts of the country are less safe than others, and you should check the most up-to-date information before planning your trip. 

To stay safe on the road, consider taking major highways in Mexico that in most cases have tolls. These highways are more expensive than secondary roads, but they are safer to travel on.

34. Don’t show off your wealth

Avoid wearing jewelry and clothing that might suggest you have money.

Dress modestly and keep things simple, even when you are visiting popular destinations in Mexico. A pair of shorts and a basic t-shirt is a perfect outfit if you plan to spend a day adventuring and visiting historic landmarks. A fanny pack that you could wear on your waist in the front is also a good idea.

35. Leave your wallet in your hotel

Carrying all your money in your bag is one of the worst mistakes in Mexico!

If you plan to explore all day long, leave your wallet in a safe in your hotel. Take enough cash and one credit card. In case you lose your bag, you will still have your wallet with other credit and debit cards. 

36. Carry hand sanitizer

While cleanliness standards are high in popular parts of Mexico that are frequented by international visitors, it’s not always the case in less developed, rural areas that see few tourists. Carrying sanitizer and wet wipes is a good idea while traveling in Mexico. 

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR MEXICO TRAVEL

37. Mexico has many climates

Mexico might be famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, but it is not all warm and balmy. 

For example, the Pacific Coast of Mexico has a dry climate and Central and Northern Mexico have mountainous and desert areas which can get cold. If you are in the mountains, you might even see some snow. 

Mexico City has a climate which is more in line with other cities in the Northern Hemisphere, so don’t forget to bring your jacket, especially in fall and winter.

In short, if you plan to hop around the country, one of my top Mexico travel tips is to bring more than just beachy clothes.

38. Be aware of the seaweed season

If you plan a fun getaway to Mexico’s Caribbean, be aware of the sargassum season that starts in late April when tons of seaweed gets washed ashore, affecting swimming conditions.

The issue of sargassum received a lot of attention in recent years especially in places like Tulum where many beaches were covered in this pesky seaweed. 

Look up the Sargasso Monitoring Network of Cancun, that publishes frequent reports on conditions of Mexico’s Caribbean. 

PRO TIP: Check this article to get the most detailed and up-to-date information on how to get from Cancun to Tulum and save money on transportation. 

39. Use a Telcel SIM card

If you plan a trip to Mexico, don’t forget to stay connected while traveling around the country.📱

You can easily get a wi-fi connection in places like restaurants and hotels, but once you start getting away, your connection could disappear very quickly.

To avoid this situation, get a Telcel SIM cars in one of Telcel stores, (the largest carrier in Mexico).

40. Get a VPN

VPN is a great way to protect your data while staying online. Remember that your data could be at risk every time you connect to a wi-fi in a public place. It only takes one wrong person to have your digital data stolen!

To protect your digital data while traveling in Mexico and other countries, Use Nord VPN, a trusted leader in customers’ data protection.

41. Avoid ATM’s on paydays

Most people in Mexico are paid twice a month, on the 15th and on the 30th, which means lines can be reeeeally long at ATMs on these days, especially during afternoons when everyone gets off work.

As a rule, avoid these days if you need to get some cash from your ATM. 

42. Book your flight ahead of time

One of the most obvious Mexico travel tips that is often overlooked is…

Don’t forget to book your flight early! 

To find cheap flights to Mexico, visit Cheap Air, a website that offers incredible bargains on international flights. And the best thing, it does all the work for you! 

Using the Cheap Air could help you save a ton of money during the high season (late November through April) and Spring Break when many North American tourists come to Mexico. And don’t forget about Christmas and New Year’s, the busiest time in the coastal areas of Mexico.

43. Consider guided tours

Not many people want to buy a tour.

Tours can be expensive, and you don’t have the same freedom as you do when you rent a car. But some places in Mexico are great for taking a guided tour to learn the history and culture of the region. 

Guided tours are great for the ancient Mayan ruins such as  Chichen Itza ,  Uxmal , and  Ek Balam  as well as incredible waterfalls and Mayan ruins in the state of Chiapas. 

You can also do  a guided tour of cenotes , water-filled caverns that in the Yucatán Peninsula. This is a great option if you don’t have a lot of time and want to make the most out of your trip. 

44. Download WhatsApp

WhatsApp is used widely in Mexico for personal and professional communication.

If you travel to Mexico, you will find it very handy. Many tour agencies, car rental companies and even taxi drivers in Mexico communicate with their customers via WhatsApp. 

It’s convenient and helps you to confirm everything and ask questions on the spot instead of having to wait for an email. 

45. Bring ear plugs

Geographically, Mexico is part of North America, but culturally, it’s a Latin American country. While smaller, more rural places in Mexico are more tranquillo (calm), bigger cities can be loud.

Let’s say you book a hotel in Playa Del Carmen on La Quinta Avenida. Don’t expect things to quiet down at 9 p.m.

If you stay in the center of action, be prepared for a lot of hustle and bustle outside your hotel well into the night and bring your ear plugs unless you can sleep with the noise.

46. Pay attention to major Mexican holidays

Mexico has several big days that are important to know to better plan your trip. Mexican people take pride in these holidays and spend with their friends and family to celebrate these special dates. Some businesses might also be closed during these days.

• Day of the Dead – November 1-2
• Benito Juárez Birth Day – March 16
• Christmas – December 25
• Semana Santa – Semana Santa (or Holy Week) runs from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. Most schools and many businesses close on these days.
• Day of Mexico’s Independence – September 16 

A word about Cinco De Mayo 

In the United States, many people know Cinco de Mayo as one of the most popular Mexican holidays. 

While Mexico observes this day with re-inactions of the Battle of Puebla, and other festivities marking the historic date, it’s not a federal holiday and offices, schools and businesses remain open. 

47. Check visa requirements for your country

Mexico has pretty straightforward entry requirements.

While citizens of the United States and many European countries don’t need a visa to enter the country, it’s not the case for everybody. Residents of other countries for example, are required to get an e-visa before arriving in Mexico. Check your visa requirements before planning a trip to Mexico.

GENERAL TIPS FOR MEXICO TRAVEL

48. Take buses to save money

You can travel around Mexico by bus very inexpensively, and there are several bus companies that serve different parts of the country.

If you have traveled to Yucatan, you might be familiar with ADO, a bus company that serves the region. 

ADO buses are very clean, modern and very affordable, of all things! You can easily travel by bus between different cities in Mexico, while paying as little as $10 USD (This is what I paid for some of travels around Yucatan).

ADO also has an app, which is great for those travelers who don’t speak Spanish, as staff in ticket offices sometimes speak very little English, and might not be able to be able to help you, if you have a questions. 

49. Take your time exploring Mexico

Mexico is a vast country with many regional and geographical differences.

While you might have seen the Mexican culture in movies and images produced by the Western pop-culture, you shouldn’t come here expecting to see familiar stereotypes on every corner. 

For example, the north of the country near the U.S. border is drastically different from southern states like Oaxaca and Chiapas . Baja California, a peninsula that separates Mexico’s Pacific from the Sea of Cortez is different from the country’s mainland.

50. Don’t underestimate the distance

Mexico is a huge and driving distances can be really long, depending on your itinerary. 

For example, you begin your trip in Yucatán and plan to travel north, make sure to allocate extra time for your time on the road whether you are traveling by car or by bus. One of my top Mexico travel tips is to allocate enough time for your trip.

51. Take domestic flights within Mexico to save time

Taking domestic flights in Mexico will you save a lot of time!

AeroMexico is the most expensive and reputable carrier; Volarís is another popular (and slightly less pricey) option, and VivaAerobus is the budget airline that has the least stellar reputation because of its nickel-and-dime practices. 

The company charges you extra for checking in your luggage, paying for tickets with a credit card and everything in between. 

To put it short, taking a flight in Mexico will cost you more money than taking a bus, but it will save you hours that you could spend exploring a new destination.

52. Leave a tip

Not leaving a gratuity is one of the worst mistakes in Mexico!

In Mexico, you are expected to leave from 10 to 20 percent of your total bill as a tip. Waiters and waitresses in Mexico make low hourly wages, so your gratuity goes a long way.

✅ Check my complete guide to tipping in Mexico to find out how much you should tip your tour guide.

Unless the service was absolutely horrible, you should leave about 15 percent of your total bill.

Also, you might notice that service here is generally slower compared to the U.S. and Europe.

Mexican people take their time, so don’t expect your server to check on you constantly and ask if you are doing OK. And when the time comes to pay your bill, it might take a bit longer. 

You too, should enjoy your meal and take things a bit slower! 

53. Museums are closed on Mondays

Museums in Mexico are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

Also, Mexican nationals and permanent residents don’t pay for museums on Sundays which is why they are normally busy on these days. Plan your visit to Mexican museums either on Tuesday of Friday when they are less crowded.

Here are a couple of important museums in Mexico:

• Gran Museo Del Mundo Maya in Merida 
• Museum of Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) in Mexico City
• Museo Nacional De Antrologia in Mexico City
• Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City
• Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca in Oaxaca Juarez (aka Oaxaca City)
• Museo de la Ballena y Ciencias del Mar in La Paz

54. … But most importantly, don’t forget to have a great time!

Planning a trip can be hectic, especially if you have never been to Mexico. I hope my tips help you plan your trip and make it easier, safer and answer most of your questions.

Remember that while you can’t prepare for everything, you can always bring a good attitude and positive mindset on your trip.

MEXICO TRAVEL: FAQ’S

If you want to visit multiple locations in Mexico check some of my tips on how to get ready for your trip:

This is one of the most frequently asked questions I get about Mexico travel! Thanks to news headlines, some think that Mexico is a crime-ridden, poor country where tourists get mugged and kidnapped.

But this is completely wrong!

Some parts of Mexico have been affected by cartel violence and are NOT recommended for foreign visitors. 

But not all of the country is dangerous.

Wherever you travel, always use common sense and keep a low profile, to avoid attention. Leave your flashy clothes and jewelry at home and remember that if something seems to be good to be true, it probably is! 

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico?

Mexico is a big country full of contrasts, diverse landscapes and wonderful cultural and historic sites. It can take months to explore. If you plan to stay on the road for a few months, I recommend getting  Safety Wing , one of the most popular options for long-term travelers. 

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

If you are traveling to Mexico from the United States, Canada or Europe, you don’t need a visa for Mexico. All you need to do is fill out a form that you will need to keep and turn in when you leave the country. It’s important to keep it safe, because if you lose it, you will need to pay a fine. 

Visa requirements for Mexico have recently changed and if you plan on staying in the country for an extended period of time, you may have to answer some questions about how you plan to support yourself while staying in the country. 

👉 iVisa  is a great resource for helping you to navigate the process and get your Mexico visa, if you want to stay here for an extended period of time.

Is it safe to drive around Mexico?

Driving in Mexico is one of the hot-button topics thanks to the headlines in the American news. The safety of driving in Mexico depends largely on where you are. Some states are less safe than others. For example the Yucatan Peninsula is considered safe for driving, while some states in central and northern Mexico are much less so. 

To stay safe while driving in Mexico, use major highways which have tolls and limit your driving to day time.

Check my complete guide on  renting a car in Mexico  to learn my tips for driving in Mexico .

Can I drink tap water in Mexico?

No, you can’t. Tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Mexico, and you should bring a refillable water bottle on your trip or buy bottled water.

More resources for planning your trip to Mexico

• Agoda.com  – a great website for budget hotels in Sayulita and other parts of Mexico.
• WorldNomads  – Great service for insurance coverage that will keep you safe on the road.
• Safety Wing  – Excellent insurance plan for long-term travelers that offers competitive rates is you are planning to stay on the road several weeks in a row. 
• iVisa  – the best website for getting help with your Mexico visa.
• DiscoverCars.com  – There’s nothing like exploring Sayulita and surrounding areas at your own pace. Consider renting a car at Discover Cars if you want more freedom exploring the Pacific Coast of Mexico. 
• GetYourGuide.com  – This is one of the best platforms for finding best tours in Sayulita. Get Your Guide is my favorite platform that offers awesome tours and top-notch guides in many destinations in Mexico.
• CheapoAir.com  – One of the best platforms for saving money on flights within Mexico and beyond. 
• Booking.com  – a popular website with tons and tons of options for accommodations of all sorts.

35 Mexico Travel Tips You Need to Read Before Traveling

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Are you planning a trip to Mexico? This massive guide will give you all the essential Mexico travel tips you need to learn about before traveling to Mexico, whether you are a first-timer or not.

Mexico is an amazing country brimmed with unique places to visit, an interesting culture to discover, a world-class cuisine, and one of the most diverse ecosystems and landscapes to explore.

There are many interesting facts about Mexico that will keep you entertained and much information you should know about before traveling.

As an Italian expatriate living in Mexico, I suggest you should read this post before planning anything. I am sure safety in Mexico is the first concern you have, and I will discuss this topic more thoroughly on a separate side.

However, there are other essential travel tips for Mexico that you should know about before traveling, in order to have a fantastic and worry-free trip. And that’s what I am talking about in this essential guide (including some safety tips of course).

General Mexico Travel tips

1. toilets are peculiar.

Not bad as a first topic! 🙂 In almost every state of Mexico, it is requested not to flush toilet paper in the WC because the pipes are narrow, and the paper can get stuck, causing damage to the pipe system. You will be reminded all the time, but I thought I should let you know and explain why.

2. WIFI is not an issue

In the most touristy area, wifi works quite well. It is probably not the case for less touristic areas, but you will be surprised to see that they have free WIFI on the town’s main plaza in small towns off the beaten track. Sometimes a password is required.

Just ask a local. You will see lots of teenagers busy on their phones. They will be happy to help you and share it.

The only touristic place where WIFI is an issue is Holbox , but you don’t need it there as you will be super busy exploring and staring at the blue sea, snorkeling, and watching sunsets.

3. Understand the meaning of ” ahorita”

Time in Mexico is a very subjective concept.

And the expression “Ahorita,” which could be translated in “in a minute,” has many different meanings from indeed “in a minute” to “tomorrow” or “in 10 years”. Make sure you ask specific questions when somebody tells you, “Ahorita voy,” I am coming in a minute. Or go with the flow.

4. Cultivate patience

Following up on the previous point, to not lose your mind, you need to be patient, and things will come to you at the time they are supposed to.

Just bring a book with you. Just this morning, I was in one of my favorite cafes in Playa del Carmen, and I ordered a sandwich.

My friend and I were basically alone. No other customers were around. It took about 40 minutes for my sandwich to land on my table.

Then I ordered a chai latte with almond milk, and they took me a cappuccino.

When I told the waiter, I didn’t order a cappuccino but a chai latte, she took me the chai but with regular milk (not almond). At that point, I just gave up and laughed with my friend.

What else can you do? Obviously, this was just a random episode that just happened, and I thought it was a funny story to share, but it’s not always like that. Waiting time at restaurants can indeed be longer than usual.

5. Speak the language

I understand that it can be difficult, but I would suggest you should learn a few basic terms in Spanish. It will help you mingle with locals and make friends. Or to have somebody laughing at your pronunciation. (I always get that being Italian). It’s a good conversation starter.

Get one of that mini-dictionary with you or have one on your phone.

Here are some basic phrases

Hola = Hello Como estàs = How are you? Por Favor = Please Gracias = Thank you Disculpa = I am sorry Perdon? = Excuse me? Donde està la parada del bus? = Where is the bust stop? Una chela por favor = A beer, please Un jugo, por favor = A juice, please Cuanto cuesta? = How much is it? Me puede ayudar? = Can you help me? Donde està…? = Where is… Ahorita … Sometime in the future. 🙂

If you want to learn more you will love these posts on How to say how are you in Spanish and How to say I love you in Spanish .

6. Get a local SIM CARD

Preferably choose Telcel. It’s always better to have a Mexican sim card if you need to ask for help, make a reservation, use your Google Maps, or even post on INSTAGRAM. It’s also useful to stay in touch with your family via Whatsapp calls where there is no wireless.

7. Mexico is not only beaches

Although the majority of travelers are drawn to the spectacular Mexican beaches, Mexico is much more than that. The fascinating blending of pre-colonial civilization with European architecture and traditions can be explored in spectacular cities such as Oaxaca, Mexico City, Puebla, and Merida, among others.

Also outdoorsy will love the amazing hiking opportunities, hidden waterfalls, and rivers such as the Huasteca Potosina or the Grutas de Tolantongo. or the amazing El Chiflon near San Cristobal de Las Casas , the Mexican Mayan Ruins are a magnificent heritage from the Pre-Colombian civilization that you must explore.

8. Don’t assume it’s hot everywhere in Mexico

Mexico is a humongous country with an extension of 1973 million km2. You can imagine how diverse its climate is.

While in Chihuahua, it snows in winter , people from Cancun or Puerto Vallarta enjoy the beach and 76ºF.

Mexico City (friendly known as CDMX) is at 2000 mt over the sea level, winters are cold, and summers hot, altitude issues can be a fact. So, make sure you check the weather before deciding where to go.

Also, read – The best time to travel to Tulum

9. Bring the right plugs

There are two types of sockets in Mexico: one with flat parallel pins and one with two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. If your plugs have a different shape, you need to get an adaptor.

You surely find adaptors in Mexico, but I am sure you don’t want to waste time looking for one during your vacation. I would suggest you get one in your trusted store. It will also work without the grounding pin.

10. Museums are often closed on Monday

Unlike the archaeological sites that are open every day except New year’s day, museums are normally closed one day of the week, which is normally used for maintenance and major cleaning.

That day is usually a Monday since weekends are normally packed with visitors because that’s when locals have time to visit. Also, locals and permanent residents don’t pay on Sundays.

For this very reason, I would suggest you plan a visit to a Museum from Tuesday through Friday because that’s when Museums are less crowded unless you are an expatriate in Mexico with a permanent residency visa. In this case, go early on a Sunday and bring your credential with you so that you don’t pay.

11. Carry a reusable shopping bag

More and more supermarkets nowadays are applying eco-friendly practices and don’t give out plastic bags.

Regardless, you can start your own eco-friendly awareness and carry your own shopping bag for any shopping so that we can contribute to creating a plastic-free world.

Travel tips about safety in Mexico

12. mexico is safe to travel to with some exceptions.

I understand that some not flattering news about Mexico might create concern about safety in Mexico .

But you need to understand that Mexico is a huge country and not everywhere there is danger. I have lived in Cancun for 9 years now, of which 1 I have spent traveling around Mexico.

Of course, there are places that I would avoid, but there are spectacular areas that are worth visiting and worry-free. One of these is Yucatan , which is considered the safest state in Mexico. Is pretty safe to travel in the Yucatan Peninsula in general. Baja California Sur is another super safe state, among others.

But you need to use some common sense…

You may also like

• Is it safe to travel to Tulum
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?
• Is Cancun Safe to Travel to right now?
• Is Cabo safe to Travel to right now?

13. Use some common sense as you would anywhere else

I have written a thorough guide on Safety in Mexico if you want to read more in detail. However, I am stressing about using some common sense since dangers are everywhere if you are acting naive. Here are a few pointers:

• Don’t show off your valuables.
• Avoid walking in the dark in isolated areas.
• If you decide to get wasted, do it when you have reliable friends around
• Don’t use ATM at night; be careful in general when you use it.
• Carry little cash with you
• Use a money belt to carry your money, cards, and documents

14. Regardless, travel insurance is recommended

Do we really need travel insurance? YES, you do. Of course, we hope nothing happens, and we are very careful. But still, shit happens for no reason, and we need to be prepared.

Getting sick or having an accident doesn’t happen because of you, but it might happen. What about an airline that is late and you missed your connecting flight with another airline?

The insurance will cover it. Or what if you are getting sick before your trip? The travel insurance will reimburse it. Did I give you enough arguments?

You can also check out my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico.

How to avoid getting sick in Mexico

15. don’t drink tap water.

Tap water is not drinkable unless they tell you so because a special water purifier is used. Make sure you have always a bottle of purified water or natural spring water ( agua de manantial ) with you.

In theory, you can use tap water for brushing teeth, as I do, but it is advisable to still use bottled water as well, just in case. You don’t really want to spend your vacation in the bathroom.

16. You can eat greens

It is a common myth that tourists must avoid greens, meaning any leafy vegetables consumed raw (lettuce, for example).

That’s because it’s believed that it is being washed with tap water, which is not drinkable, and therefore even the greens would be contaminated.

I don’t think this is accurate. It doesn’t make sense if you think about that. Locals don’t drink tap water either for the same reason.

Why would they use it to wash their veggies too? Instead, they are cautious in washing their veggies thoroughly with antibacterial and water. So I wouldn’t worry too much.

17. Don’t worry about ice in your drinks

For the very same reason, even ice is made with purified water. So you can have it in your drink, especially in a beach destination where it’s so hot, you will want your ice. Now you can have it without worrying.

18. Enjoy the delicious street food but be aware…

Street food is one of Mexico’s best things, as their typical best meals are consumed by street vendors. However, not all of them are good, and not all of them offer good quality meat and hygiene practices.

That also goes for the fruit vendors. Make sure you go where there is a line, so you know that’s the most popular vendor, and if you want fruit, ask to cut yours at the moment. Don’t buy fruit standing in the heat for a long exposure to who knows what.

19. Always keep antibacterial wet wipes in your bag

Now more than ever, it’s recommended to keep your hands clean all the time. Some wet wipes to keep with you all the time can come in handy.

20. Vaccines are not required

To travel to Mexico, there are no vaccine requirements, but you should consult your doctor if you are concerned.

21. Keep yourself hydrated

Especially in beach destinations it’s really hot and the sun is strong, so make sure you stay hydrated. Keep a refillable water bottle with you and top it up every time you can.

Especially if you go out on tours to cenotes or Mayan ruins where you are even more exposed to sun rays

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22. Wear sunblock

Make sure you are wearing sunblock even on a cloudy day especially if you are on the Mexican Coast. It’s very easy to get a sunburn and you will spoil your vacation. Make sure it’s eco-friendly though.

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✔️   100% Mineral-based sunscreen, also known as a physical sunscreen, reflects UVA/UVB rays to help protect the skin. Developed with dermatologists by CeraVe Skincare. ✔️ Oxybenzone free, avobenzone free, and benzene free, this sunscreen contains physical filters Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. ✔️ Formula is oil-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and suitable for sensitive skin

22. Wear mosquito repellent

If you go to tropical destinations in Mexico, both on the Caribbean and the Pacific coast, there are a lot of mosquitoes, especially in the wet season.

Also, there have been random cases of Zika, dengue, and other mosquito-related diseases. So you need to protect yourself. There are many different mosquito repellent products. Just pick the one you consider best for you. Here are some options.

BUY ON AMAZON

Money-related tips for Mexico

23. pay in pesos.

The local currency is Mexican Pesos (MXN), which you can exchange in the Casa de Cambio or banks, although the first ones usually have a better exchange rate.

It’s always advisable to exchange your currency for Mexican pesos because even if in a shop or supermarket, they accept USD, the exchange rates are, most of the time, unreasonable.

Almost everywhere, credit and debit cards are accepted, except in Tulum in many restaurants and hotels or in remote towns where there are still many places that only accept cash.

So keep it in mind if you plan to visit the area (which I heartily recommend).

If you want to withdraw from the ATM, please be aware that if you get dollars, you will be asked to pay a commission of 50 USD per withdrawal, which is insane.

I would rather get a small amount in Mexican pesos (check with your bank how much they charge for the withdrawal ) or bring some cash with you and exchange it here for local expenses on the road.

Bear in mind that if you rent a car .

Sometimes at gas stations, they don’t accept credit cards for some reason. You should better ask before getting gas.

Protect your personal belonging from pickpocketers!

24. How much does it cost to travel to Mexico?

I see this question coming repeatedly, and although it is complicated to quantify, let me give you some examples. Local restaurants in the non-touristic areas might charge as low as 6 USD for enough tacos and 3 for a glass of wine and a steak, or a ceviche can go from 12 to 15 USD.

In the hotel zone, a full meal with wine can start from 40 USD onward. A bottle of purified water (1l) 75c. A bus ride from the hotel zone to the town of 60c (12 pesos). A car rental from 30 USD per day (without insurance).

25. Credit cards are most commonly used, but…

Although credit cards are used basically everywhere, certain businesses will charge you a commission % if you pay by card, except for Supermarkets and Restaurants.

However, some restaurants do not accept cards, and they usually make sure to let you know before you order.

But some of them don’t and expect you to know. So if you are out of cash, always make sure you ask first. Especially in markets and small non-touristic towns, it is less common to use credit cards, so always take some cash with you.

In the restaurants in Tulum is more likely that credit cards are not accepted although things are starting to change.

26. Always have change with you (in Mexican Pesos)

You will be avoiding annoying situations if you have changes or notes of low value, like 100 or 200 pesos. Commonly, businesses don’t have change, and you just need to walk away empty-handed.

It happened to me more than once that I couldn’t buy what I needed because they didn’t have a change of 500 MXN (25 USD). Also, remember the tipping tips. You will always need to be ready to tip, so make sure you carry some 10 or 5 pesos coins with you.

27. Avoid ATMs during payday

Mexicans get paid every 15 days, on the 1st and the 15th of the month ( día de nomina ). So keep in mind that the ATMs will be crowded with long lines for the following two or three days.

If you are anything like me and hate waiting in line, avoid those days for withdrawing.

How to move around Mexico

28. public transportation is efficient and safe transportation is efficient and safe.

There is a very well-organized net of bus lines that cover the major cities in Mexico. Traveling around Mexico is very easy and comfortable.

Some of them, such as ETN, are real luxury buses. Besides a good choice of airlines, you also have the options of many bus lines, local and national, that connect the main cities and towns.

Traveler Alert: Although traveling by bus is quite safe, please do not leave your personal belonging (see money, camera, laptop) in the overhead compartment. That would not be smart. Please keep it on your lap or under your legs.

This website is an aggregator and can help you to find your connection.

29. D riving in Mexico is safe and fun

There is this myth that driving in Mexico is dangerous. Renting a car is my favorite way to get around.

I am not sure about the other parts of Mexico, but I can surely tell you that it is really doable and danger-free in the Yucatan peninsula and Baja California , and the Hidalgo State of Mexico , where I had an amazing road trip on my own.

But also Puerto Vallarta , Riviera Nayarit, Queretaro Sierra Gorda, or Oaxaca are pretty safe areas for a road trip.

Discover Cars Mexico Review

Discover Cars is one of the most popular car rental for many reasons, among which:

✔︎ straight forward information ✔︎ full coverage add-on ✔︎ listing of different companies with reviews

30. Uber is not always available

Uber had a hard time entering Mexico, especially in touristic cities in Quintana Roo. So in Cancun, Playa del Carmen , and Tulum forget about Uber.

In all the other big cities that I know of, UBER is pretty much available and the best choice.

I prefer to use UBER in general because it’s more practical. I don’t need to have cash, have better rates, and cannot fool you.

And in my experience, UBER drivers are much nicer. But that’s my own experience only. I cannot speak in general.

Also read: How to use Uber in Mexico City Is there Uber in Cancun ?

31. Confirm taxi rates in advance

If you get a taxi, make sure you agree on the fare before getting in. And it’s always better to pay in pesos. If you want him/her to pick you up, only pay one way and ask for their number (that’s another reason why Whatsapp is helpful in these cases).

32. Consider the long distances

For the same reason stated above (that Mexico is a huge country), consider consulting google maps and understand the distances. I love to drive by bus, but sometimes a flight is more convenient.

Just to give you an idea. I took a bus to San Cristobal de Las Casas from Cancun. It took me 21 hrs bus. I should have taken a flight but due to the COVID restriction there are no direct flights and it would have taken me forever anyway. Besides, it’s cheaper by bus, considering I have two bags.

If you want to check out domestic flights here are the local airlines : Volaris Aeromexico – the most expensive VivaAerobus – the least reliable but it works.

Mexico travel tips in Restaurants

33. spicy food is like anywhere else.

Whether you love spicy food or not, be careful when you read the word HABANERO, because that is the king of all spices, or so they say. I don’t even dare try.

If you are like me and can’t bear spicy food, make sure to be careful when they say, “It’s just a little spicy” (in Spanish: “pica poco”) because they have their own sense of “little,” and it means to us that it will be burning hot.

You can just ask if it contains chile . If so, it is going to be spicy.

You may also like:

The most popular Mexican sweets and snacks

The most popular Mexican food and authentic dishes

34. Be extra polite

Mexicans are very formal. I noticed it working in a Mexican office, where the work emails I received were like 400 hundred words, of which only 50 were the actual message. The rest were all formalities. Even in an informal situation, Mexican keep their formal attitude.

Always ask, “how are you” before asking anything else. Just keep it in mind and go with the flow. For example, when you enter a shop, always greet the salespeople with hello and goodbye.

But the weirdest part was to hear strangers wishing me “ Buen provecho ” (meaning “have a good meal”) while sitting at a restaurant. That was awkward, but I have learned now, and I am doing it too.

The funny part is that when I go back to Italy I feel like doing the same and that would be really embarrassing because we don’t do it.

35. …and generous (Tipping advice in Mexico)

In Mexico, like in the US, tipping is the norm, and, although not mandatory, it’s “kindly required.” Some restaurants include it in the bill, but it’s just a suggestion. You can decide what to tip. The normality is starting from 10% (considered very tight) up.

Where to tip in Mexico – bars and restaurants, gas stations, parking, and the people who put your grocery shopping in the supermarket bags.

Getting to Mexico

36. entry visa requirements.

You need to apply for a visa if your passport is from the country listed on this page.  If your country is not on the list you can enter  Mexico with your valid passport and get a 3 to 6 months tourist permit.

To work in Mexico is more complicated and you should put it in the hands of a good lawyer that can look after all the paperwork for you and spare you all the hustle and headaches.

I was lucky because I was hired by a local company that took care of my paperwork through a lawyer. She was so efficient and trustworthy that I have asked her if I could interview her.

37. Immigration form

They are slowly eliminating the immigration forms in all the major touristy airports in Mexico. In Cancun, Mexico City, and Puerto Vallarta they have already started. This makes your immigration process very easy.

Also, they are giving 180 days tourist visas by default.

You still have to fill out the customs form, though.

Mexico travel tip FAQ

In addition to the above-mentioned tips let me answer some of the most popular questions about Mexico

38. What should I avoid doing in Mexico?

You should AVOID

✔ drinking TAP water

✔ overstress about safety

✔ and yet don’t be naive,

✔ get there unprepared (that’s what this blog is for 😉

✔ flaunt your possession and money

✔ overdress

✔ stay in your hotel without exploring around

✔ get involved in drug-related issues

✔ pay the bribe to the police if they stop you. (read also my driving in Mexico guide)

39. What are the dos and don’ts in Mexico?

► DOS in Mexico

✅ wear sunscreen

✅ respect the environment

✅ follow my tips and suggested tours 🙂

✅ chat with locals

✅ go off the beaten path

✅ drive around the Yucatan peninsula

✅ explore the cenotes

✅ wear mosquito repellent

► Don’ts in Mexico: see #38

40. What month should you avoid Mexico?

There is no answer to this question. It really depends on what you want to visit and what kind of experience you want to have. There is no specific month that you should avoid in Mexico.

Although you need to know for example that

► Merida is extremely hot in March and April (and the entire summer)

► The Riviera Maya has more chance of hurricanes around September and October when it’s hot and humid.

► Mexico city is cold in the winter months, especially in January and February.

► It can snow in Mexico as well.

► The whale season in Mexico is from December through March on the Pacific coast while to swim with the whale shark in Cancun you must go in summer, better if from Mid July through August.

► La Paz in Summer is extremely hot but the water is warm and pleasant to swim.

► The best place to celebrate the day of the dead is in Oaxaca .

41. Is Cancun safe?

Cancun is quite safe for tourists. You should refer to this post on safety in Cancun to learn more.

43. What is the cheapest time to go to Mexico?

The cheapest time to go to Mexico is the so-called shoulder season from after holy week through June and from September through mid-December (with exception of thanksgiving and the Day of the dead)

At that time of the year, you will find lower prices and fewer crowds! the best time to travel.

44. What do you need for Covid Mexico?

In some places, you are still required to wear a mask. Make sure you check the law before traveling. Other than that, you are good to go!

45. Is Mexico safe?

Check out my detailed post on the matter. Is Mexico safe?

Mexico travel tips: final thoughts

I believe after reading this post you are well-informed and ready to explore this beautiful country. But if you think you have any more questions please be my guest and ask away ! I’ll respond as fast as I can!

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

131 Tips for Mexico Travel – Know Before You Go (2024 Recommendations)

Mexico is a vibrant destination with a taste of every attraction you could want: Exotic beaches, stunning landscapes, a rich ancient history, and some of the best food in the world!

After living here for nearly 5 years and visiting 10+ cities, I’ve gathered the essential information that you would need for a successful trip. This list cultivates everything I wish I had been told before coming here and exclusive tips you won’t find anywhere else.

Learn from my rookie mistakes and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!

Essential safety tips for Mexico travel

1. do not drink the tap water.

2. Prevent pickpocketing with a Neck Wallet

While people think Mexico is associated with high-stakes crimes, your biggest concern will be smaller offenses like petty theft and pickpocketing. We recommend wearing a theft-proof neck wallet to conceal your passport, credit cards, phones, and I.D.s neatly underneath your shirt. Since they are hidden, no one will view you as an easy target. And the RFID-blocking material means no one can scan your wallet for financial data.

3. Stop hackers with a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Most people don’t think twice about joining a free WiFi network at the airport, coffee shops, restaurants, Airbnbs, hotels, etc. But what most travelers don’t realize is that they are putting themselves at risk of identity theft and cyber-hacking – I learned this when my credit card was stolen at our Airbnb in Paris. Now we never travel without a reliable VPN.

A virtual private network gives you a secure line to surf the internet and visit censored websites (Mexico may also block some of your favorite websites or make it difficult to work abroad). A VPN solves that problem and protects all passwords, credit card numbers, and identities. It’s also wildly affordable!

4. Get travel insurance BEFORE your trip

5. Leave the designer items at home

While vacation calls for a new wardrobe, leave the designer items at home. This is not the place to wear your most expensive jewelry or be flashy about your valuables. This is the place to blend in and take fewer risks. Don’t carelessly flash around your money and know that glitzy items will only draw unwanted attention from thieves or cat-callers.

6. Secure all bags with TSA-Approved Locks

I’ve had items stolen out of my checked luggage at the airport, so now I swear by these TSA-Approved Luggage Locks . You can attach these to your bags when traveling internationally, to your backpack when exploring town, or to secure your items at the hotel while the cleaning staff is going in and out.

Regarding your purse, just bring enough cash for the day and don’t bring your entire wallet or all credit cards, especially for beach days or times when your bags are unattended.

7. Avoid fake ATMs & spot a scam

8. Check you’re up-to-date on vaccinations

The most common vaccine requirements for travel to Mexico are against Hepatitis A and typhoid. As of late 2022, travelers are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination for travel to Mexico. You can check up-to-date restrictions and CDC requirements through the Mexico Travel Advisory .

9. Ultimately – know that Mexico is safer than you think

Yes, precautions are necessary, but Mexico has a low crime rate compared to many worldwide countries. In general, you will feel very safe and welcomed by the locals.

I would advise staying in popular tourist areas with lots of people and not traveling alone at night or venturing outside major cities. Statistically, the safest cities in Mexico are Merida, Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, and Playa Del Carmen; The least safe are Tijuana, Acapulco, Juárez, and Cancún. 

Cultural norms & etiquette in Mexico

10. don’t flush the toilet paper .

This may come as a shock, but it is not customary to flush your toilet paper in Mexico. To support the longevity of the pipes, locals throw their TP in the trashcan beside the toilet. Respect the sensitive plumbing and do as the locals do! 

11. Bring your own TP, in case there is none 

12. Ladies’ restrooms are marked ‘M’

Last note for your bathroom experiences – ‘Mujeres’ means ‘woman’ in Spanish, so female bathrooms may be labeled with ‘M.’ Don’t mistake this for the English word ‘male’ and end up in an embarrassing situation! 

Men’s doors will be labeled with an ‘H’ for ‘hombres.’ This does not mean ‘hers,’ so be very careful 🙂 

13. Punctuality is a loose term (arrive 30 minutes late) 

Time is relative – it means such different things to different cultures and the clock in Mexico is known to run a little slower. Culturally, there is simply less urgency here! While Americans are running around early to appointments, most of the world is taking a siesta nap at lunch, taking Sundays off, and showing up around 30-60 minutes late. 

Know beforehand that this is not personal or a sign of disrespect – it’s simply an art form. I once met a local that joked, “we will show up late to our own wedding, late to work, late to the court, late to church, and merely call it flexibility.” 

14. Learn basic Spanish to get by & impress the locals

Wherever you travel in the world, knowing a bit of the language will help your trip run smoother. Not only will you be able to order food, find the bathrooms, look up directions, and handle basic interactions – but you will also impress the locals by caring enough to engage them. Even if your skills are not up-to-par, they will appreciate the effort and see it as a sign of respect. 

Practice through learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel , and download the Google Translate app for translating on the fly or communicating with someone who may not speak English.  

15. Haggling isn’t popular in Mexico 

16. Inland cities are more conservative than coastal cities 

While this may seem obvious, it’s worth noting that coastal cities in Mexico are a bit more of the party zone . Beachwear and skimpy outfits are more acceptable in places like Cancún, Tijuana, Cabo San Lucas, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Guadalajara, and Puerto Vallarta. 

Conversely, Central Mexico and inland cities will be a tad more traditional. With Catholic morals and a conservative style, you should wear clothes that are more modest in places like Puebla, Oaxaca, Merida, and Querétaro. Mexico City will be the exception; as the capital city with the highest national population, there is more of a metropolitan vibe and free-spirited nature.

Top-rated attractions in Mexico – the BEST things to do

17. climb ancient mayan ruins that are 4,000 years old .

While in Mexico, you absolutely must visit the ancient Mayan ruins. The pre-Hispanic history of this region dates back to 2600 B.C., more than 4,500 years ago. These stunning architectural triumphs show proof of language through glyphs and an impressive knowledge of mathematics, astrology, and primitive engineering. 

The bulk of locations are found in the Tulum Archaeological Zone and the most popular is definitely Chichén Itzá , but be sure to also check out lesser-known spots like Palenque , Monte Alban , and Teotihuacan (the Temple of Quetzalcoatl). 

18. Relax in a lagoon-like Cenote 

19. Experience world-class diving & snorkeling

Mexico has some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world! People come from far and wide to experience things like Cozumel’s colorful marine life, Riviera Maya’s shark diving, and the Mesoamerican Reef (the largest in the Western Hemisphere).   

Check out snorkeling at popular locations like Palancer Reef near Cozumel , the Sea of Cortex near Cabo , and the hidden beach of Puerta Vallarta . 

20. Take a luxury cruise around the coast

Cabo San Lucas is probably the most popular destination for water activities. Buzzing with yachts, catamarans, and sailboats – this is the place for sunbathing on the deck and sipping margaritas until the sun goes down. 

Some of the most popular tours include a sunset cruise with dinner , letting stress melt away on a calming jazz cruise , sailing around Baja California, and snorkeling after lunch . Luxury lovers should book a catamaran from Isle Mujeres from Cancún , and low-key travelers will swoon over the calm waters of Bacalar .

21. Dive into the creepy but amazing – Museo Subacuático de Arte

22. Capture memories with an underwater camera

Whether diving, snorkeling, or swimming, you will want to capture the moments that were most special to you. This underwater camera is ideal because it doesn’t break the bank but isn’t as precious (or expensive) as a GoPro or traditional DSRL . Don’t forget the tripod to take seamless pictures on the beach at sunset and include everyone in the shot. 

23. Fly over Teotihuacán Valley in a hot air balloon 

The Teotihuacán Valley holds a deep history and boasts one of the largest pyramids in Mexico. What better way to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site than from a bird’s eye view? 

Fly 10,000 ft. high over the Sun & Moon Pyramid in a massive hot air balloon! This is one of the most unforgettable ways to see the mesoamerican region – with an up-close look at the archeological site and transportation to and from Mexico City, which is 45 minutes away.  

24. Experience the amazing local wildlife scene 

25. Swim with wild dolphins in Cancún

As one of the most popular and anticipated excursions in paradise, swimming with the dolphins is a cliché for a reason – it’s seriously magical and a perfect activity for the whole family. You can opt for a direct tour to swim with dolphins or combine this with a catamaran cruise around Isla Mujeres. 

26. Explore the state capital

Don’t sleep on the major cities! Mexico City is the state capital and the most densely-populated area of Mexico. It is known for things like Templo Mayor (an Aztec temple from the 13th century), the buzzing canals Xochimilco , and incredible street food . It’s also home to the Frida Khalo Museum (La Casa Azul, The Blue House), set within her former art studio. Then, you can finish the evening with a REAL lucha libre wrestling fight .   

27. Get off the beaten path on guided day trips 

Some of my favorite adventures were the Tolantongo Caves outside of Mexico City (bucket-list item!) , hiking through the Sumidero National Park , and touring the epic Iztaccihuatl volcano .

28. Book in advance for skip-the-line and discounted tickets 

Ultimately, no matter the excursion – you should book in advance to ensure your entry to the amazing sights. We use Get Your Guide because they offer the most authentic tours. You can book directly with local companies to support their tourism industry, and they allow cancelations up to 24-hours before the excursion. Plan ahead and reap the benefits of an unforgettable getaway! 

See all Mexico attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

Mexico packing list (things that people often forget) 

29. a mexico power adapter .

Mexico has the same power supply as the U.S., so your appliances should work in both countries. However, Mexico is more prone to power outages or not having electricity across all regions, so we recommend bringing along a universal power adapter that has a built-in fuse protector. This one works in 100+ popular countries and has a lifetime replacement warranty. You can also bring an extra power bank or lipstick-sized charger to keep your devices powered on-the-go. 

Learn more in our complete guide – U.S. to Mexico Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)

30. Reef-safe sunscreen (Illegal to use normal sunscreen in some areas)

31. A Dry Bag to protect your cash, clothes, and perishables 

As someone who has watched their backpack slide around a soaking wet deck, I recommend a dry bag or waterproof backpack to protect your belongings. It’s quite a humbling experience to watch your cash crumble into a ball of worthlessness! 

This dry bag by Earth Pak is my favorite because it’s well-made and everything comes out dry. You’ll be boating, snorkeling, docking (sometimes far from the pier and walking ashore), so protect all perishable items. 

32. An affordable waterproof phone case

Along those same lines, purchase a universal waterproof phone case . It allows you to use the touchscreen through the case so you can film awesome underwater videos with sound. I recommend attaching a flotation strap because if a phone falls in a sharp coral reef, it’s a goner. You can attach these to keys, devices, or anything you want to remain buoyant and retrievable! 

33. Packing cubes = A game-changer! 

Packing cubes are one of those mild luxuries that you may not think is necessary, but once you travel with organizers, you never go back! These cubes are made by a family-owned travel company and are smartly designed with labels on each cube so you can easily find tops, bottoms, sleepwear, essentials, socks, etc. Never losing an item is a serious game-changer, I can’t recommend them enough.

34. Sun Protection to avoid sunburns

35. Aftercare for long beach days

When the inevitable tan or sunburn does happen, have some aloe vera and moisturizer with vitamin E on hand. Honey also makes a great healing agent for wounds (and a sunburn is technically a wound).  

36. Cooling Towels to beat the heat

Cooling towels are a scientific revelation that will truly change your experience in Mexico! Simply add water and the towel will become 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature for up to an hour. This will pay off BIG when you’re dripping in sweat on a hike or standing in long lines. I never travel to tropical destinations without this affordable set.  

37. An Unlimited SIM Card for your phone 

38. A Portable Hotspot 

If you need to work remotely or maintain a connection to your favorite websites, you may consider bringing a portable hotspot device . While many places will offer free WiFi, (and you should add a layer of defense through a virtual private network ), you could also just bring a hotspot that will remove extraneous factors like remote location or signal reception.

39. Remember to pack lightly & consolidate where you can 

Overall, these recommendations are thoughtful precautions, but you should aim to pack lightly and consolidate items where you can. Things like a waterproof backpack will keep you hands-free during sightseeing days, while a hanging toiletries bag will be a fool-proof solution for limited counter space at hotels.

Aim to stay at a place with a laundry service or washing machine and then you can pack even less (to do some shopping during your visit)! I pack along this “just in case” bag for those unpredictable purchases; it tucks easily underneath my plane seat and counts as a personal item. 

For more information, check out our in-depth packing lists based on specific locations: 

Mexico | Central America |  Cancún | Cabo San Lucas | Cozumel | Merida/Yucatán | Playa Del Carmen | Puerto Vallarta | Punta Cana | Tulum  

How to eat in Mexico without getting Montezuma's revenge

40. stay ahead of food poisoning with activated charcoal.

Needless to say, no matter where you dine, there is a risk of getting sick.

41. Bring probiotics & fortify your gut

Along with activated charcoal, you should fortify your gut before your travels and pack things to strengthen your digestive system. I always bring Align probiotics (a solid brand with an effective product), or Global Healing has a fantastic probiotic that targets yeast, sugar, and candida-based fungus. 

I also use Mary Ruth’s liquid chlorophyll because it is naturally anti-cancerous and a pure detoxifier. In bad cases, you can try immodium to relieve diarrhea, cramps, and bloating. Aloe is also very soothing for the stomach and will calm any inflammatory pain, I never travel without it. 

42. Don’t eat raw vegetables

Unless you are eating in an upscale restaurant, avoid eating raw vegetables as they can often carry bacteria that only is killed when cooked in high temperatures. For example, you will want to order your tacos without the raw onion or cilantro that usually comes on top. If you purchase your own, scrub them thoroughly and cook them well. 

43. Know the safe fruit combinations (and the not-so-safe ones)

44. Avoid certain street vendors 

As mentioned above, there is a slightly higher likelihood of food poisoning at open-air eateries and food trucks  – however, don’t avoid them altogether. It would be a shame to miss a REAL Spanish taco, and most people generally do not get sick. 

Immerse yourself in this new country, but still be selective. Do this by:

• Looking for long lines of people (proving the food has fast turnover and is made-to-order)
• Seeing where the locals are drawn towards (residents know how to avoid food poisoning)
• Finding places with a minimum of 2 employees
• Using your intuition to discern what food is clean (is the food on ice, heated, or preserved in a way that prevents bacteria?)

45. Avoid the open markets (CDC recommendation) 

With that being said, the CDC recommends that tourists avoid open-air markets. This is another rule that doesn’t need to be hard-and-fast. 

Many people visit and feast on expensive meals, then end up getting sick. Others spend their whole trip consuming street food and never get sick. These are the laws of unfairness and there are no guarantees either way. 

46. Book with a trusted local food guide

47. Bring hand sanitizer wherever you go

I met a woman at the hotel who had been very sick from food poisoning. She mentioned that she regretted not carrying hand sanitizer since she was confident this was the reason behind her illness: touching door handles, cars, walls, railings, etc. 

48. Stick to drinking bottled water at the hotel

Most tourists stick to the bottled water provided by their hotel. This is great for meal-to-meal, and you can bring 1-2 with you on a day trip, but many people stay at hostels or Airbnbs that are not as stocked. Pack along a filtered water bottle in case you have no access to a purified option. Don’t drink from plastic water bottles if they have a broken seal. 

49. Pack a backup LifeStraw for peace of mind

Sometimes, food poisoning is just psychological. This sounds like an exaggeration but the mind is a powerful thing. If you fear food poisoning strongly, this can worsen the preemptive fear in your body, so perhaps bring a LifeStraw , just in case. 

This product has literally saved lives and helped people that had no access to clean water. It can be used directly in a glass of tap water or a flowing river to keep you ahead of water-borne illnesses like e. coli. 

50. Be cautious with ice 

51. Use purified water for brushing your teeth

The same goes for brushing your teeth. You can significantly reduce your chances of water-borne illness by playing it safe (even with small things like brushing your teeth!) I recommend using the water bottles provided by the hotel or your personal filtration system. 

52. Ask your host or concierge about safe local spots 

Some travel websites are going to have paid reviews and won’t reflect the reality of what’s good (and safe) in the area. Trust the local word – If staying at a resort, your concierge will offer recommendations and can book a car for you to the destination. An Airbnb host will often send their favorite nearby eateries and it’s best to rely on a resident’s perspective. 

53. Prevent alcohol poisoning by staying hydrated 

54. Bring electrolytes in case you DO get sick 

In the off-chance that you still get sick (even after incorporating all of these wondrous tips!) be sure to have some electrolytes on hand. Some people favor the old-school Pedialyte Electrolyte Packets , while others prefer Liquid IV Electrolyte Packets .  These truly save lives and you will feel so much better with a surge of electrolytes soothing the war on your body! 

55. Visit the pharmacy to see an affordable doctor

Also, most pharmacies have a small doctor’s office where they give walk-in consultations and will prescribe any medications you may need. The doctor’s fee is usually less than $5 USD and worth knowing about if nothing else works.

Where to stay in Mexico – best areas & resorts

56. select your location based on your expectations .

Here’s a cheat-sheet for the popular destinations: 

• Best for beaches, nightlife, and parties – Cancún, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Morelos
• Best for snorkeling, diving, and water activities – Akumal, Isla Mujeres, Playa Del Carmen, Riviera Maya 
• Best for history, cenotes, and Mayan ruins – Guadalajara, Mérida, Tepoztlán , Tulum , Veracruz, Yucatán  
• Best for mountains, hiking, and vineyards – Oaxaca, Sayulita, Loreto, Valle De Guadalupe , Valle de Parras
• Best for culture, foodie scene, and bars – Mexico City, Monterrey, San Miguel de Allende, Tijuana 

57. Best Hotels in Mexico For Families 

For adventure and thrill-seekers, definitely check out our article on the 7 Best Cancún Hotels with Waterparks (2024 Reviews) . Many of these resorts will offer child care or a kid-zone that will entertain your young ones all day! They can also meet children their own age while you’re enjoying the spa, inclusive bar, or more ‘adult’ festivities! 

Some top-rated resorts for families are: 

• Best Crowd-Pleaser – Sandos Caracol Eco Resort – All Inclusive
• Best for Luxury – Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta
• Best Bargain – Al Ritmo Cancún Resort & Water Park  

58. Best Places to Stay for Couples 

For those seeking a romantic getaway, you may consider an adults-only resort. There’s nothing that ruins the mood quite like a gaggle of kids screaming their heads off while you try to relax on the beach.

Hit the spa, enjoy the on-site bars, and consider picking a resort with live entertainment or a dance club to keep you occupied in the evenings. 

The most romantic hotels in Mexico include: 

• Best Adult-Only All-Inclusive Resort – Hyatt Zilara, Cancún
• Best for History – Hotel de la Paz, Guanajuato
• Best Vibes – Habitas, Tulum Mexico
• Best Bargain – Sina Suites, Cancún Mexico

59. Best Resorts for Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties 

Check out these popular resorts for celebrations: 

• Best for Large Groups – The Cape, Cabo San Lucas
• Best for Relaxation – Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas
• Best for Clubs & Partying – Moon Palace, All Inclusive, Cancún
• Best Bargain All-Inclusive – Krystal Cancún Resort, Cancún 

Also check out our in-depth guide, 17 Top Resort Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring . 

Tips for a better hotel experience in Mexico

60. book through a reputable site like booking.com.

Authorities have noticed a major rise in fake travel package scams and tourist-targeted fraud. This is especially prevalent in Mexico and the Caribbean region, leaving some tourists paying a high price for a sadly non-existent offering.

The best way to protect yourself against this hustle is to book through well-known booking services. We use Booking.com to compare verified listings and take advantage of free cancelations on nearly all bookings.

61. Bring your own Quick-Dry Travel Towel

If you’re staying in a hostel, meditation retreat, or eco-lodge – you may be offered a useless cloth or no towel at all. Larger resorts are more likely to provide one, but it will be fluffy and oversized, too bulky to lug from beach to beach.

We advise bringing your own quick-dry travel towel ; this one dries 10x faster than cotton and is super absorbent. Since it’s light as a feather, we pack a few in our daypack and use them for a variety of needs (seat cover, picnic blanket, sweatband, etc.)

62. Look for newer hotels

63. Don’t fall into the Instagram trap

While Instagram research can open your eyes to travel inspiration, you shouldn’t always take it at face-value. Sometimes an accommodation or destination is marketed to look like a slice of paradise but once you arrive, the pictures don’t match the reality.

Keep in mind that pictures are taken by professionals, with expensive lighting, on the brightest and sunniest days, with post-production editing. You may visit during a rainy afternoon and things may not be exactly as you anticipated. A good tip is to search for reviews and images posted by guests instead of the hotel. This will help you gain a realistic perception of your stay and determine if it meets your needs.

64. Some resorts pay for fake reviews

Sadly, we live in the age of influencer marketing and paid reviews. You can spot this on Amazon (or any site) by looking for things that feel illegitimate. For example, sometimes an amazon product has 25,000+ reviews and every picture looks exactly the same, as if the purchaser was instructed on how to photograph it.

The same goes for hotels, pictures can be sponsored and hotels can incentivize influencers with free rooms and comped amenities. You’ll also notice repetitive phrases in the reviews like, “Our stay was amazing!” “Everything was amazing!” “Just amazing!” Look for buzzwords, too much consistency, and things that feel prompted. Legitimate reviews are unique and can fairly acknowledge a hotel’s flaws.

65. Try searching for a YouTube video of the hotel

Transportation hacks – Getting around Mexico like a pro

66. pack snacks for the road.

Mexican airports usually don’t have the wide variety of fast-food and dine-in restaurants that you may be used to in the US. And if you’re traveling by land, you can drive for hours before finding a place to grab a bite. Pack a snack or small meal to make sure you have something to your liking to eat when you’re on the go.

67. Beware of scammers and book safely

It pays to do your research. Check what reputable car rental companies are available in the destination you’re traveling to and book directly with them. You’ll avoid possible third-party scams or fees. If you’re after the cheapest deal, try using Discover Cars to do a side-by-side comparison of your options to help you find the best deal.

68. Know that Uber isn’t available country-wide

69. Steer clear of rough neighborhoods

As long as you stick to neighborhoods with tourist sites, you won’t have to worry about ending up in the wrong neighborhood. Avoid walking around late at night, keep your phone and wallet out of your pockets, leave the expensive jewelry at home, and you’ll be in good shape.

70. American and Canadian citizens can skip the long line at customs

Recently, Mexico has started rolling out new automated border control kiosks in Mexico City, Los Cabos, and Cancún airports. I recently flew into Mexico City, and with my American passport, I was able to skip the long line to enter via a border patrol agent and go directly to one of the automated kiosks. This can easily save you a couple of hours as customs often takes forever to get through in Mexico City.

71. Avoid the fictional ‘airport upcharge’ (a tourist trap)

72. Negotiate your taxi fare BEFORE the ride starts

If you’re hailing a taxi off the street, be sure to first give them the address and have them tell you the price beforehand. Most taxis in small towns don’t have meters, so it’s best to know what the driver’s rate is before you agree to ride.

73. Travel comfortably and affordably via the private bus system

Mexico has several private bus companies that are well-connected across the country. ADO is one of the bus lines with the most routes. If you’re looking to take a day trip to a pueblo magico , or want to travel all over the country, private buses are much more affordable than planes while still being safe and comfortable.

74. Still take advantage of the public transportation network

75. Try out a colectivo (ride-share)

Most commonly used in beach destinations like the Yucatan peninsula, colectivos are a great way to carpool with other travelers and save money on private transportation. However, if traveling outside of large resort towns, travelers should note that colectivos are not catered towards tourists. In most other parts of the country, colectivos are used by the working class to travel to and from work and are not suggested for general tourism purposes.

Mexico’s Unique Finds & Hidden Gems

76. visit the isla de las muñecas (the haunted island of dolls).

Tucked away between the canals of Xochimilco lies the bizarre but intriguing haunted island of the dolls. Legend has it, a little girl mysteriously drowned near the island and her doll was placed in a tree as a sign of respect. The caretaker of the island felt the girl’s spirit in the doll and continued adding more dolls until there were hundreds! It’s a surreal sight that many horror love and folklore fans simply must witness.

77. Las Posza: Xilitla Surrealist Gardens

78. Take a selfie in the Biblioteca Vasconcelos

The architecture of this library could have easily inspired Interstellar’s bookshelf scene. The floating bookshelves make for an epic selfie and to get people asking where in “the world are you!?” It’s a must-visit when in Mexico City.

79. Do a real photo shoot in paradise

If you’re looking to document high-quality images of your vacation, consider hiring a professional photographer to capture moments you’ll remember for a lifetime! You don’t want to risk people getting in the way of your shot, miserable tripod experiences, or blurry photos.

80. Witness actual magic at Los Pueblos Magicos

81. Walk through the home of Frida Khalo (an art lover’s dream!)

Step back in time as you visit the home of Frida Khalo in Mexico City’s historic neighborhood of Coyoacan. The marvelous Blue House was once Frida’s home and now is a wonderful art museum where you can learn about her inspirational life as a female painter in the mid-1900s.

82. Take a day trip to Las Coloradas (the Pink Lakes)

Witness magical pink lakes by boat on a day trip from Cancún. This natural wonder is surrounded by mangroves that attract a variety of bird species, including pink flamingoes! Visit a nearby virgin beach for you and your fellow travelers to enjoy all to yourselves as you eat a fresh seafood lunch.

83. Honor the indigenous culture of Mexico

84. Try AtlasObscura.com for more “hidden wonders”

If you’re looking for even more off-the-beaten-path experiences, then it’s worth checking out Atlas Obscura . They offer details about hole-in-the-wall places, unknown treasures, and things that most people don’t know about worldwide destinations are waiting to be discovered!

The cost of traveling to Mexico for every price-point

85. high-end resort cost.

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort or a luxury hotel experience, there’s really no limit on how much you can spend. All-inclusive resorts start at around $300 USD a person per night and can easily exceed $1,500 USD per day.

• Best Adult-Only All-Inclusive: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
• Best Family-Friendly All-Inclusive: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts
• Best Pet-Friendly All-Inclusive: Atelier Playa Mujeres-All Inclusive Resort

86. Average-priced accommodation cost

• Best Design: Casa Wahh
• Best Nature Hotel: Yanay, Natural Retreat & Hotel
• Best Boutique Hotel: Casa Mauna Boutique Hotel

87. Budget-friendly stay cost

Mexico is a budget traveler’s paradise! From social hostels to cute B&Bs, there is an affordable option for every type of traveler for less than $50 USD per person per night.

• Best Hostel: Hostal Casa
• Best Bed and Breakfast : Vainilla Bed and Breakfast
• Best Design : Mimosa Tulum

Traveling Mexico on a budget & ways to save money

88. hold on to your coins.

While cash can sometimes feel obsolete in the United States, it’s still the payment method of choice by most vendors in Mexico. Many restaurants and small stores are cash-only. Coins are a necessity when tipping the gas station attendant or when using a public bathroom.

89. But use your international credit card when you can

Whenever you can, opt for using a credit card with no international transaction fees. Withdrawing cash or exchanging currencies can start to add up. It’s best to save your cash for the times when cards aren’t accepted so you don’t rack up ATM fees.

90. Save currency exchange as a last resort

Exchanging currencies is not the most cost-effective way of accessing your money in Mexico. Airport kiosks normally don’t have the best deals, and currency exchange stores in town can easily rip you off. Stick to paying with a credit card or withdrawing cash from an ATM, and exchange USD for Pesos as a last resort.

91. Stay in hostels to save money and meet people

92. But good resorts and hotels don’t have to break the bank

If you’re looking to save on accommodation but still want the amenities and comfort of a resort or hotel, you’re in luck. Your US dollars will go far in Mexico, and you can experience all-inclusive resorts and boutique hotels at a fraction of the price you’re used to in the United States.

93. Eat at “comida corridas” to save major dinero

Across Mexico, there are local, and affordable lunch spots called comida corridas that serve up traditional Mexican cooking . For around $5 USD, you get a drink, starter, main course, and dessert. They are only open for lunch and are very popular with locals to go and eat during their lunch break. Search comida corrida in Google Maps and choose from one of the many options that will pop up near you.

94. Off-season travel – save money and evade the crowd

95. Stay longer with a volunteer exchange

A volunteer exchange allows you to save money, stay in one palace longer, and get to know the community. I used Workaway to volunteer in hostels in Mexico City and Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, in exchange for free accommodation and breakfast. I met so many incredible people and had the best time.

96. Or get temporary residency to stay 6+ months

If you’re a digital nomad and want to call Mexico home for more than 6 months, then getting a Mexican temporary residency could be the right option for you. You won’t have to leave the country every 6 months or worry if customs will grant you the full 180 days every time you enter Mexico. You’ll need to prove economic solvency and jump through a few bureaucratic hoops, but it can be worth it if you’re serious about being in Mexico full-time.

When to visit Mexico – seasonal tips & insider secrets

97. rainy season is no joke in mexico.

  98. But Hurricane Season continues for 1 more month

It’s important to note that whether you’re traveling to Mexico’s Pacific or Atlantic Coasts, hurricane season can last through October. During the late summer months and early fall, you can expect heavy rainfall, potential hurricanes, hotter temperatures, and higher numbers of mosquitoes. Bug repellent will be your best friend if you travel during this time of the year.

99. Seaweed Season (sargassum) is May through October 

Unfortunately, if you were looking to visit Mexico’s Caribbean coast during the summer months, you’d likely encounter sargassum seaweed on the beaches. Your best bet is to visit the Yucatan Peninsula during the winter months and head toward Mexico’s sargassum-free Pacific beach towns like Puerto Vallarta during the summer.

100. Whale-watching is an epic experience (December to March)

101. And the monarch butterfly migration is breathtaking (January to February)

Every year, millions of monarch butterflies from as far as Canada and the United States migrate to one small part of Mexico for the winter. You can witness this natural phenomenon in the forests just outside of Mexico City. Observe monarchs by the thousands as they huddle together on tree branches and flutter about against the clear blue sky.  

102. Semana Santa (Easter) is Mexico’s holy week 

Semana Santa always falls the week before Easter, in late March or early April. It is Mexico’s second-largest holiday, where most of the country is off on vacation. That means tourist destinations are packed with locals enjoying their time off. If you want to avoid the crowds, don’t plan your visit to Mexico during this week.

103. Celebrate Dias De Los Muertes (the day of the dead) in November

104. Sunrays are stronger in the summer

If you plan on traveling to Baja California, the Pacific Coast, Atlantic Coast, or the Yucatan Peninsula between June and September, be prepared for the heat and humidity. You’ll want to bring along a rash guard to protect your skin when you’re under the sun all day and a handheld fan or cooling towel to refresh yourself on outdoor excursions.

105. But surprisingly, Mexico gets cold 

Don’t underestimate Mexico as just a tropical haven. It has desert climates and high-altitude cities that tend to get quite chilly in the evening. Even in the summer, bring a waterproof jacket , just in case. In the Winter, opt for layers that you can peel off or put on, as the temperature can drastically change when the sun goes down. 

106. Local tip: Spring is the best time of year to visit 

Advice for Families bringing kids to Mexico

107. resorts often have babysitters, nurseries, or kid zones.

An awesome amenity that some hotels and resorts include or offer for an additional fee is childcare. If you’re hoping to spend a date night or go on an excursion child-free, then be sure to check out one of the many hotels that offer mom-approved babysitting services . The kids will have a blast enjoying games and activities catered to their age group while you can relax and enjoy quality time with your partner in paradise.

108. There are tons of fun activities for kids in Mexico!

Mexico is filled with rich culture and stunning natural beauty, both of which offer fun and unforgettable activities for your kiddos. Take them to Mexico City’s museum of chocolate , discover the underwater world by submarine in Cozumel , and uncover hidden beaches in Cabo . Mexico’s culture is very family and child-oriented. You’ll be received with nothing but patience and kindness when traveling with little ones here.

109. Go to a theme park

110. Feel the adventurous spirit of Mexico

Bring your kiddos’ wildest dreams to life by sailing aboard a real pirate ship on the Sea of Cortez. If your little ones are nature and animal lovers, take them snorkeling with sea turtles or visit a wildlife sanctuary in the Yucatan Peninsula. Whatever their interests are, kids will get their fill of adventure in Mexico.

111. Note: There aren’t too many playgrounds in Mexico

Many resorts have on-premises waterslides and playgrounds, but you won’t find as many public ones. Larger cities like Mexico City and Oaxaca City have several parks with playgrounds. If having a playground near you is important, try and book accommodations that are close to green spaces. Playground Buddy is an app that will help you find the nearest public recreation areas.

112. You should consider bringing your own booster seat

Booster seats at restaurants are virtually non-existent in Mexico. Bringing your own can be really helpful for meals out as well as car, bus, and airplane rides. Consider packing this lightweight travel booster seat that meets US federal car safety standards to keep your little ones comfortable and safe.

113. Bring good walking shoes for the whole family

114. For your sanity – pack some activities for long distances

There are times when traveling when you need your kids to be able to entertain themselves. Games like these ISPY travel cards , trivia cards , or this wipe-off activity pad will keep your little ones entertained at the airport, during car or plane rides, while waiting to eat at restaurants, and any time in between.

Advice specifically for women solo-traveling to Mexico

115. choose your location wisely.

When booking your accommodation, choose places that are close to all the action. For starters, tourist areas are always safer as they are filled with other tourists and tourist police. Secondly, the closer you stay to the sites/areas you want to see, the less likely you are to walk or take a taxi through less-safe neighborhoods.

116. Meet up with people (power in numbers!)

If you’re hesitant to travel to Mexico alone, there are tons of options for meeting other travelers to explore with. The easiest way to meet fellow travelers is by staying in a hostel, but you can also meet other travelers on guided tours , meet-up apps like Couchsurfing or Meetup , and by volunteering through sites like Workaway .

117. Watch your belongings

118. Watch your drink

Even at the resorts, keep an eye on your drink and ensure no one slips anything in your cocktail, water, or soda. You can prevent spiked drinks with these disposable party drink covers that will give you peace of mind and an added layer of defense.

119. Keep your wits about you

Don’t get distracted by text messages or Google Maps on your phone while you’re out exploring. You don’t want to look like a target that could easily be caught off-guard. Walk on well-lit, busy streets and keep the headphones off until you get to where you’re going.

120. Walk confidently and dodge cat-calling

121. Ensure someone knows your location at all times

Give a friend or family member a copy of your itinerary with all addresses and phone numbers to reach you or the hotel or information they would need to find you in the event of an emergency. Let someone know when you leave for a night out and when you make it back to your accommodation. Consider sharing your location with a family member or friend via Find My Friends or a similar app.

Best travel resources to bookmark

122. skyscanner.com: to track cheap flights.

With Skyscanner, you can search what the cheapest destinations to visit from any given airport as well as when are the most affordable dates to travel to specific places. You can plan your trip in advance around these stats, or if you’re looking for a spontaneous getaway, you can see the cheapest options Skyscanner comes up with and travel there on a whim!

123. LonelyPlanet.com: Expert Advice 

A crisp new guidebook from LonelyPlanet hits differently, and their online resources are no different. They have experts on the ground that give a fresh perspective of what it’s like to travel to most destinations around the world.

124. Rome2Rio.com: Find directions to anywhere 

If navigating isn’t your forte, you can count on Rome2Rio to tell you exactly how to get to where you want to go. It analyzes the different types of transportation offered in any town or city to give you the best way to get from point A to B. If you’re looking to go from Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta, simply search those destinations and explore the different land and air transportation options that appear to compare prices and travel times.

125. HappyCow.net: Discover Vegan & Vegetarian Food Options

126. VisitACity.com: Pre-Built Itineraries 

If you’re short on time and don’t want to plan an itinerary for every stop you make in Mexico, consider getting inspiration from one of the many pre-planned itineraries from VisitACity . It’s especially useful for destinations where you’ll be just passing through and don’t want to spend too much time or energy creating a detailed itinerary yourself.

Final tips for traveling to Mexico

127. pack a copy of your passport (email it too).

A tip for all future travels – make a paper copy of your passport in case it were to get stolen or become misplaced. Something I did a long time ago was email myself a backup copy in case (somehow) I lost the other two copies. Having a physical and virtual option on-hand adds peace of mind in potentially stressful situations. 

128. Don’t be shy! 

129. Always asks the customs agent for a 6-month visa

A 6-month tourist visa isn’t always a given in Mexico. While customs agents usually give out the maximum 6-month visa, no questions asked, they have recently become stricter with how long they let tourists stay in the country. If you know you may potentially want to stay the whole 6 months, be sure to tell them that. Otherwise, they will give you just enough days to last you until your departure ticket, if you have one, that is.

130. Display good manners

Being friendly and polite is instilled in Mexican culture. A greeting always starts with “Hola, como estas? “ to ask how someone is doing before further communicating what question you may have or what you might need. 

Elders are spoken to using the word “usted,” the formal version of “you.”

And don’t be surprised when locals leaving the restaurant tell you “buen provecho” as they pass you by to wish you a good meal. If you want to impress, try implementing these manners during your time in Mexico.

131. Have the experience of a lifetime! 

Asher Fergusson

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Mexico Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 10, 2023

While most people visit Mexico for its big tourist centers like Tulum , Cabo, Cancun , or Cozumel, there’s a lot more to the country than just its luxurious resorts.

Now, I’ll be honest: I was late to visiting Mexico.

But when I did, I fell in love with it. Mexico is an incredible destination with a rich history, amazing food, and friendly people.

It’s an awesome country to backpack around, drive through, or just vacation in. There’s a ton of stuff to do here, and the locals are some of the friendliest people on the planet.

From Mayan ruins to pristine beaches to Mexico City’s art and food and Oaxaca’s mezcal scene, Mexico has it all.

And the food? World-class. Gorge yourself on delicious tacos, tostadas, tamales, sopas, seafood, and mole (to name a few items from Mexico’s very long list of traditional dishes).

I could go on forever as to why I love this country. Whatever amount of time you’re planning to visit is not enough — you’ll always leave wanting more.

This Mexico travel guide will help you get out of the touristy towns, explore the country, and fall in love with what you discover!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Mexico

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in mexico.

1. Explore Oaxaca

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico, Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. A city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and many parks, it’s a center for heritage tourism. It’s also one of the gastronomic hotbeds of Mexico as well as the hub of mezcal production too. With fascinating museums, bustling markets, historic buildings, delicious food and much more, there really is something for everyone in Oaxaca . I loved my time there ! You must visit!

2. Tour Mexico City

Found in the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of around 2,225 meters (7,300 feet), Mexico City is a sprawling, chaotic, messy city in the best way possible. Originally built over a lake, it has some 150 world-class museums, sprawling markets, tons of historic buildings, city squares, and more. In the historic center, you can visit the impressive main square (the only one bigger in the world is Red Square in Moscow). To the south of the city there’s a network of beautiful canals, and Teotihuacan, the City of the Gods, is just a 45-minute drive away. The city also has an incredible foodie scene and is fast becoming one of the centers of gastronomy in the world.

3. Relax on the Pacific Coast

Vacation spots like Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, and Sayulita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offer just as many epic beaches and resort properties as the Caribbean Coast. Go to Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos to hang out on the pristine white sandy beaches, or head to Sayulita to check out the busy surf scene. Surf and enjoy watersports, visit historical monuments, and check out all the local art by day. By night, you can indulge in sunset cocktails, enjoy fresh shrimp tacos or seafood skewers, and salsa the evening away.

4. See the Mayan Ruins

Mexico is filled with ruins. You have Chichén Itzá, which dates back to 550 CE and is one of the largest (and most popular) Mayan sites in Mexico for its enormous Kukulkan Pyramid (which is considered one of the new Wonders of the World). Other ruins worth visiting are the Tulum Archaeological Zone, the Palenque Archaeological Zone, the Calakmul ruins (which are inside the huge Calakmul Biosphere Reserve), the ruins at Ek Balam, and so many more! Admission is 571 MXN for the Wonder of the World Chichén Itzá while the rest cost anywhere from 80-500 MXN.

5. Visit a volcano

Other things to see and do in mexico, 1. wander through mexico city’s chapultepec park.

Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world, spanning over 1,700 acres. It encompasses the Mexico City Zoo, La Feria amusement park, and the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The museum costs 85 MXN, as does the Chapultepec Castillo (Castle) which houses the National History Museum. You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. Entry to the park itself is free.

2. Visit the markets

Just about every town in Mexico has a busy, diverse market where you can enjoy traditional food, pick up some bargain items, and purchase souvenirs. Two of the best are the Mercado Ciudadela in Mexico City (for handmade textiles and artwork), and Oaxaca’s Mercado Benito Juárez (for local foods like fresh ground coffee beans, juices, and grasshopper tacos). If you’re in Merida, check out Mercado Santa Ana for their Yucatecan cuisine, like cochito horneado , a marinated pork dish that is slow-cooked in underground pits, or head to El Mercado Lucas de Galvez for their specialty seafood cocktails (the locals swear by it to cure your hangover).

3. Explore Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)

Zócalo is the main plaza in the heart of Mexico City. It dates back to the Aztecs, encompassing both the Templo Mayor (an ancient Aztec temple) and the Palacio Nacional (a colonial palace with offices of Mexico’s president). Situated just off the Zócalo is La Catedral Metropolitana, a magnificent cathedral with a gold altar. It’s a perfect example of Spanish colonial architecture.

4. Go diving

The seas surrounding Mexico have some of the world’s best diving spots thanks to their diverse marine life, large coral reefs (including the second largest reef system in the world, the Great Maya Barrier Reef), and excellent visibility. The Gulf of Mexico is home to five different species of sea turtles, blue whales, lemon sharks, and dolphins, and so much more! Aside from diving, the waters are popular for snorkeling, sports fishing, waterboarding, surfing, and more or less any other watersports. A two-tank dive starts at 2,800 MXN. Some of the best places to dive in Mexico are Discovery Bay, Cenote Dos Ojos, Revillagigedo Islands, and Isla Mujeres.

5. Relax in Cancún

Depending on what you’re looking to do, Cancún can offer you a crazy-fun party in the sun or some quiet and hidden local markets and restaurants. You have spas, resorts, and picturesque beaches as well as Mayan ruins, archaeological sites, and little nearby villages. There’s a ton to see and do here if you leave the resorts!

6. Get lost in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and is known for its tequila and mariachi. It’s chock full of museums, such as Cabañas (a UNESCO building with incredible murals), MUSA (paintings & sculptures by local artists), and the Páramo Galeria (contemporary art); nightlife venues, and a labyrinth of old colonial streets. Visit the Hospicio Cabañas, a hospital built in the 19th century, and then spend some time at the Guadalajara Cathedral. The cathedral’s Gothic interior features artworks from famous Mexican artists like Murillo (a Baroque painter).

7. See Teotihuacan

The Aztec empire left an enormous mark on Mexico. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Aztec pyramids at Teotihuacan, located 48 kilometers (30 miles) outside of Mexico City. Teotihuacan was founded as early as 400 BCE, but its biggest structures weren’t completed until around 300 BCE. Its three giant pyramids are known as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and they dominate the landscape. If you’re going to visit just one Aztec site, this is it. It’s unsheltered here, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Admission is 85 MXN. Full-day guided tours from Mexico City cost 880 MXN.

8. Visit the bizarre Island of Dolls

Known as “La Isla de la Muñecas” in Spanish, this is perhaps one of the creepiest tourist attractions in the world. Decades ago, a hermit named Don Julian Santana moved here, learned a girl drowned in the nearby lake, and started collecting and hanging dolls all over the island to please the drowned girl’s spirit. It’s creepy. Like beyond creepy. You’ll have to hire a boat from Xochimilco to get there but it’s worth it!

9. Honor the Day of the Dead

Yearly on November 1st and 2nd, Mexico celebrates a major festival: Día de Los Muertos. The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades and elaborate and colorful costumes. Families also commemorate their dead relatives by setting up ofrendas , or altars, with pictures of the deceased, candles, yellow marigold petals, and food. This meant to encourage the deceased to cross back over into the land of the living and join in the celebrations. Oaxaca or Mexico City are the two best places to experience this celebration.

10. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexico City for a little while, the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is the perfect place. Keeping with the Aztec traditions of having gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, there is also an added focus on conservation and environmental education here. Built on top of and around lava formations from the eruption of the volcano Xitle (which happened over 2,000 years ago), visitors can explore the naturally formed grottoes, ponds, and waterfalls. This garden has the most diverse cactus collection in the world (800 different kinds!), and ponds full of koi and turtles, an orchidarium, and a medicinal garden. Admission is free.

11. Relax on Isla Holbox

Holbox is an island located off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is home to white sand beaches and crystalline waters. It is a relaxing, slow-paced island that’s easy to get stuck on. One day can easily turn into a week. It’s an island paradise where you can relax in a hammock on the beach, hike in the jungles, swim, dive, snorkel, and everything in between! While it used to be a hidden gem, it’s slowly becoming more and more popular (and developed). Be sure to see bioluminescent waters here. From Cancún, you can get to the ferry port at Chiquilá in around two hours by bus. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs 220 MXN. If you just want to visit for the day, full-day tours from Cancún/Playa del Carmen cost 3,000 MXN.

12. Visit Mérida

Mérida is one of my favorite places in all of Mexico. It is a safe and wonderful city filled with history, cool mezcal bars, and some of the best food in the country. Some of my favorite places to eat and drink in town are La Chaya Maya Casona, Acervo Mezcalero, La Negrita Cantina, and Café Créme. Also, don’t miss the nearby Uxmal ruins, which are just one-hour away. There are also some cool museums here, like the Folk Art Museum of Yucatan, the Yucatan Music Museum, and the City Museum (which has all kinds of Mayan artifacts).

13. Enjoy San Cristóbal de las Casas’ architecture

San Cristóbal is a highland town known for its charming colonial architecture. There are narrow cobblestone streets, local craft markets, and the entire area is enveloped in pine forests. Don’t miss the town’s 16th-century cathedral, and if you want to get out and explore the nearby nature, take a boat tour of the Cañón de Sumidero. You’ll see tons of birds, monkeys, and crocodiles. For a view of the town and surrounding area, visit the Guadalupe Church to enjoy the view from the roof. Free Walking San Cristóbal offers daily tours if you want a guide to show you the highlights.

14. Sample the Cenotes of Yucatan

Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are full of groundwater. They were used by the Mayans as sources for freshwater, however, today they are popular swimming holes for locals and tourists alike (you can even scuba dive in some). There are tons of them all around the Yucatan Peninsula. Some are completely exposed, some are walled in by cliffs, and some are covered entirely by caves. Calavera, Cristalino, Casa Cenote, Yaxmuul, Choo-Ha, and Escondido Cenote are some of the most popular cenotes in the region. If you’d rather do a tour, you can join a cenote tour for around 1,350 MXN.

15. Visit Sayulita

Located on the Pacific coast, Sayulita is a hip beach town with a lively community of expats and surfers. The town has a laid-back vibe owing to the sizable surfing and yoga community. It’s a great place to surf and there are plenty of yoga retreats available here. You can also take a jungle trek, go zip lining, ride ATVs along the coast, and simply soak up the sun on the beach. It’s the perfect place to chill for a few days. Canopy tours start at 1,800 MXN.

16. Explore Campeche

Campeche is located just south of Merida on the Yucatan. It’s home to UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture, including fortified walls and over 2,000 historic buildings. Visit the Museo De La Arquitectura Maya for Mayan history and antiquities, see the Mayan ruins at Edzná (which is just 45 minutes away and sees very few tourists), and wander the old city wall to take in the view.

  For information on specific cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancún Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico Travel Costs

Accommodation – In Mexico, hostels start at 250 MXN per night for a dorm bed, but average closer to 300 MXN. Private hostel rooms cost anything from 600-1,900 MXN per night. Prices are usually a bit lower in the low-season or shoulder-season. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are both common, as are self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity costs around 200 MXN per night.

For budget hotels, expect to pay 700 MXN for a basic room in a two-star hotel. These two-star rooms typically include an en-suite bathroom and free Wi-Fi, but not always air conditioning.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico, with private rooms starting around 300 MXN but averaging much more (usually between 600-1,200 MXN). Entire homes and apartments average around 1,000-1,800 MXN although you can find them for as little as 600 MXN if you book early.

Food – You’ll find a lot of rice, beans, fruits, and veggies like tomatoes, corn, avocado, and peppers in Mexican cuisine, which is a mix of Mayan, Aztec, and Spanish traditions. Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili), and guacamole.

Street stalls and markets are the best way to go for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadilla, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Mexico, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. Expect to pay around 300 MXN for a multi-course meal in a mid-range restaurant.

A beer is about 20 MXN in the street but double that at a restaurant, while a cocktail shouldn’t cost more than 80 MXN in most places. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 120 MXN and a cappuccino costs around 50 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. If you’re buying bottles of water, expect to pay 15 MXN (less if you buy in bulk but a more environmentally friendly (and cheaper) solution is to bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 750 MXN per week for groceries including rice, vegetables, chicken, and beans.

Backpacking Mexico Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico, expect to spend around 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,800 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Mexico Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico is incredibly budget-friendly. Unless you’re splurging on food or resorts, it’s really easy to visit on a budget. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are some ways to save in Mexico:

• Shop at the markets for food – Mexico’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Most towns have a local market selling fresh fruits, veggies, and other goods for cheap.
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats.
• Take a free walking tour – Many cities have free walking tours that give you a solid introduction to the main sights. Both Mexico City and Oaxaca have excellent free tours — just be sure to tip your guide!
• Travel off-season – By traveling between late April and early December, you can pick up bargain accommodation, food and travel rates as this is low season.
• Venture inland – Mexico’s coasts are the most famous, most touristy parts of the country, but the interior has an amazing amount to offer. Prices are cheaper, and you’ll be more likely to meet some locals if you head away from the coast.
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals and connect with people who can share their insider tips and advice. Just make sure to send your requests early.
• Embrace “comida corrida” – This hearty mid-day meal option is usually available between 2pm-4pm and is often quite affordable. It’s a set menu, but it’s much cheaper than most lunch or dinner options. If you plan on eating out on a budget, aim for places that offer comida corrida.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis are overpriced and not always safe. Skip them. If you do need a taxi, don’t just hail one on the street. Head into a nearby hotel/hostel and ask them to call one for you. Only get in taxis that use a meter.
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico

Hostels are plentiful in most of Mexico’s cities. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Mexico:

• Suites DF Hostel (Mexico City)
• Mexico City Hostel (Mexico City)
• Hostel Ka’beh Cancún (Cancún)
• Mama’s Home (Tulum)
• Gran Hostal (Playa del Carmen)
• Casa Angel Youth Hostel (Oaxaca)

How to Get Around Mexico

Public transportation – Public buses (also known as camiones ) are the most common way to get around in cities and towns (and to nearby villages). These buses are also the cheapest, costing no more than a few pesos per journey. In some cities, smaller microbuses have replaced the older buses, but the cost is still the same.

Mexico City and Guadalajara have subway systems. One-way tickets for the subway and the bus system are around 5 MXN. In Mexico City, you’ll have to buy a rechargeable Metro Card at any of the Metro stations for 15 MXN, and you can use the card for the Metro, Metrobús, Light Rail, Ecobici, Trolleybus, RTP buses, and on Cablebús.

Bus – Most of Mexico is served by buses. On longer journeys, make sure to take an express bus (called a “directo”) if you can as they are much faster and stop less. A bus from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (5.5 hours) costs around 585 MXN. A bus from Cancún to Mexico City (27 hours) costs around 1,800 MXN. A bus from Puebla to Mexico City (2 hours) costs around 200 MXN.

Some of the biggest and most reliable bus companies include:

• Primera Plus
• Estrella de Oro
• Omnibuses de Mexico
• ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales)

Most cities have a central bus terminal from where all long-distance buses depart. You can show up to buy your ticket, or research routes and ticket prices via each company’s website.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There are virtually no passenger train services remaining in Mexico. For long-distance travel, you’ll need to fly or take the bus.

Flying – For long journeys, consider flying. The route from Cancún to Mexico City by bus takes 27 hours and costs around 1,800 MXN but a flight starts around 470 MXN and only takes two hours. A one-way fare from Mexico City to Guadalajara is about 525 MXN. Even a four-hour flight from coast to coast from Cancún to Puerto Vallarta is just 1,200 MXN one-way.

Aeroméxico is the biggest airline in Mexico, but low-cost carriers are becoming more popular. These include:

• VivaAerobus

Car rentals – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Mexico. You can find week-long rentals for around 3,000 MXN. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years. Some companies require renters to be over 25 and it’s best to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Avoid driving at night, when crimes against drivers are more likely to occur. Also, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Mexico

Summer (June to October) is the rainy season in Mexico, but this is mostly just in the center of the country. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. It hardly ever rains in the northern part of the country, and humidity is thick in the south and along the coastal areas. Temperatures during this time hover somewhere between 26-32°C (79-90°F).

September to the middle of October is hurricane season and is not a good time to visit.

December to the end of April (winter) is the busiest tourist season as temperatures are hot, but the coastal areas provide plenty of relief for vacationers. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of Mexico’s tropical environment. It’s the dry season, so you’ll experience very little rain. You can expect big crowds as people flock to the resort areas around Cancún and Puerto Vallarta.

The average daily temperature during this time is 28°C (82°F). But if you’re in the mountains, pack lots of layers! It can get frigid, especially in the evenings.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico as a dangerous place to visit but the reality is far more complex. While petty theft is very common in Mexico, most of the serious conflicts occur between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels. The people who tend to be involved in major incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid those, and you’ll drastically increase your chances of staying safe.

Moreover, where you are greatly influences how safe you are. Yucatan and Oaxaca are incredibly safe states to visit while states near the US border are less so and more likely to experience violence and crime.

Officials looking for bribes are pretty common in Quintana Roo, as is drug-related violence due to tourists looking for drugs there. States near the southern border can also be sketchy and it’s wiser to keep an eye out on your stuff there though violent crime is pretty uncommon.

So don’t believe the media that “Mexico is unsafe.” Mexico is like any big country – some parts are safe, and some parts aren’t. Use some common sense when you travel: don’t flash your money, avoid wearing expensive watches or jewelry, don’t walk along drunk at night, make copies of your passport and official documents, and tell people where you are regularly.

Another important safety tip to keep in mind is about the water. While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it still is not safe to drink ordinary tap water when visiting. Luckily, bottled water is available everywhere. Bringing water filter like LifeStraw is advised as it has a built-in filter so your water is always clean and safe.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

The emergency services number in Mexico is 911. However, if that doesn’t work (since it isn’t in use in every region of Mexico), try 066.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Mexico Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mexico Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Roaming Around the World

Travel Guides, Tips, and Tales

75+ Best Mexico Travel Tips to Know

February 28, 2023 By John Widmer 1 Comment

Mexico is such a spectacular travel destination. Visitors to Mexico are regularly wowed by its warm culture, delicious cuisine, fascinating archeological sites, beautiful beaches, and charming traditions.

Yet before packing your bags to enjoy the country’s splendors, there are lots of Mexico travel tips and cultural advice for visitors to be aware of when traveling to Mexico. We regularly see many of the same questions about traveling to Mexico within travel forums, nomad groups, and expat chats. So after spending a good part of the past decade traveling across and temporarily living in over half of Mexico’s 32 states, we wanted to publish this in-depth roundup of the best Mexico travel tips to help visitors travel throughout the country.

These Mexico travel tips aim to help prepare for a trip to Mexico by arming travelers with local knowledge, cultural etiquette, and money-saving tips.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler to Mexico, looking to delve deeper into the country, or even considering Mexico as a place to live as an expat or digital nomad, this article is for you. It’s our hope these Mexico travel tips provide many resources for smooth travels, staying safe, and having fun within this beautiful country!

🌮 Eating & Drinking Mexico Travel Tips 🚽 Bathroom Tips When Traveling Mexico 🇲🇽 Mexico Cultural & Etiquette Tips ✈️ Tips for Traveling into + Getting around Mexico ☠️ Is Mexico Safe? Safety Tips in Mexico 💵 Money-Saving Mexico Travel Tips 💡 Practicalities and More Mexico Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Eating and Drinking in Mexico

In our opinion, Mexican food is one of the best cuisines in the world. So be sure to take the opportunity to enjoy it throughout your Mexico travels. But new visitors can take some modest precautions to lessen the risk of getting sick when exploring Mexico’s cuisine.

Also, it’s recommended that travelers to Mexico come with an open mind about the cuisine you’ll find. Understand that Mexican cuisine can be misunderstood and misrepresented when prepared elsewhere around the world. For example, Tex-Mex cuisine can be delicious, but it’s sometimes incorrectly labeled as Mexican cuisine, which can be vastly different. Many first-time visitors to Mexico are surprised by the array of fantastic local dishes that await them.

1) Can You Drink the Water in Mexico?

It is best to strictly avoid drinking tap water in Mexico . There is a risk that water from the faucet contains contaminants, like bacteria, that can cause illnesses such as traveler’s diarrhea. So do not drink tap water in Mexico.

That said, if you’re served a glass of water at a restaurant in Mexico, it’s likely fine to drink . Restaurants only offer purified water. Often patrons will purchase a bottle of water, typically ordered as “agua natural,” in which you’ll receive a bottle of water.

Sometimes complimentary water may be served at restaurants in Mexico too. If so, this water is typically purified water (from a big 5-gallon jug known as a garrafón ), not from a faucet. This is completely fine to drink.

So don’t hesitate to drink water at restaurants in Mexico. This Mexico travel tip also extends to water-based drinks, such as limondas and aguas frescas . These water-based beverages are made from purified water in Mexico, so it’s all good. Even street vendors use purified water in their beverages. So drink up and stay hydrated!

2) Don’t Have Drinks with Ice in Mexico?

It’s typically fine to consume ice in Mexico.

There is long-standing advice warning visitors to forgo drinks with ice in Mexico. This is out of an abundance of caution from fear that the ice is made with tap water. But this Mexico travel tip to avoid ice tends to be outdated. In 2024, ice served in Mexico’s restaurants and bars is nearly always made from purified water and is safe for consumption.

Even street vendors selling horchatas and aguas frescas typically make their beverages with purified ice. You can easily tell because of the ice’s manufactured, often tubular, shape. If ever in doubt and want to be extra safe, you can always forgo ice. But doing so is likely unnecessary.

Visitors to Mexico generally should not be afraid of drinks with ice. So have that frozen margarita and enjoy it!

3) Discover Local and Regional Mexican Cuisine!

It can also be helpful to know that much of Mexico’s local cuisine is regional and can even be hyper-local . For example, Yucatan cuisine (e.g., cochinita pibil ) is very different than Oaxacan cuisine (e.g., moles ). The city of Puebla takes pride in its cemitas (sandwiches), while in Guadalajara it’s the torta ahogada sandwiches that reign supreme. The Veracruz-style fish (with tomato, capers, and olives) found along the Gulf is a much different presentation compared to the Baja-style fish tacos found on the Pacific side of the country. Speaking of tacos, there are so many regional taco varieties in Mexico that there’s even an entire Netflix series to be devoted to it.

Doing a bit of research about the local dishes specific to the state or city you’re visiting can ultimately reward your taste buds.

Here are just a few regional specialties in Mexico to get you started:

• Yucatan : cochinita pibil, sopa de lima, poc chuc, marquesitas
• Oaxaca : 7 moles, tlyadudas, chapulines, quesillo, tasajo, mescal
• Veracruz : pescado a la veracruzana
• Jalisco : Birria, tortas ahogadas, carne en su jugo, tequila
• Puebla : mole poblano, chiles en nogada, tacos arabe, cemitas
• Michoacán : carnitas
• Northern Mexico : machaca, carne asada
• Baja : fish tacos, caesar salad

There are also many famous dishes you can try throughout much of Mexico. Although hailing from Puebla, mole poblano is considered the national dish of Mexico. If visiting during the first half of September leading up to Mexico’s Independence Day, it’s traditional to eat chiles en nogada , often considered a national dish. Of course, there are always tacos , considered by many to also be a national dish of Mexico and can be a delicious idea throughout the entire country!

Our advice: make a plan to eat local . Arrive hungry. Enjoy all of Mexico’s delicious cuisine!

4) Is it Safe to Eat Street Food in Mexico?

Yes, it can be. But follow the recommended hygiene tips.

Whether or not to eat street food in Mexico is a question that always seems to come up and is frequently debated. Ultimately, the answer can come down to personal preference and risk tolerance. Eating street food in Mexico does carry some minimal risk. But it’s a risk that can easily be mitigated.

The CDC suggests that “Street vendors…may not be held to the same hygiene standards as restaurants, so eat food from street vendors with caution.”

Travelers to Mexico can experience an upset stomach when eating street food. Visitors freshly arriving to Mexico on a quick trip may want to proceed with caution as a safeguard to thwart the unfortunate possibility of traveler’s diarrhea. Avoiding street food can be an overcautious yet safe approach to help stay well. But in doing so, you’ll also miss out on lots of yummy food.

While it is possible to get sick from street food in Mexico, the same can be said for restaurants, whether in Mexico or elsewhere. The key to mitigating risk when eating street food in Mexico is ensuring good hygiene is being used by each vendor.

If you choose to partake in the many stalls set up along the streets, here are our best Mexico street food tips to follow :

• Look to see if the person who prepares the food also does the money exchange. If so, watch for gloves to be used to handle cash, with clean bare hands handling the food.
• Avoid stalls with pre-cooked foods sitting out. Choose cooked foods that immediately come off the heat source (pot, grill, etc.).
• Look for vendors with a steady stream of local customers . If they’re willing to wait in line, the vendor likely has a great reputation. And with many customers, the food stays hot and fresh!
• Check for flies around any open food containers . Move on if you see any. Stalls with fresh-cut fruit laying out in the open can often attract flies and are best avoided.
• Consider avoiding foods with raw vegetables or fruits, since they could contain bacteria/viruses or have been rinsed with faucet water.

On a personal note, we regularly (often daily) eat all the delicious street food we can devour in Mexico. During the many years we’ve traveled/lived in Mexico, we did get food illness once. But it was from a restaurant, not street food.

5) Don’t Dip into the Salsa

Upon getting situated at a restaurant in Mexico, crispy tortilla chips and delicious salsas are sometimes brought to the table, complimentary. North of the border, we’re accustomed to dipping into the salsa directly with a chip. But in Mexico, it’s more customary to instead spoon the salsa onto your chip and other food items.

Also, realize that salsas come in varying levels of spiciness. So try a little dab to test it out before piling a heaping spoonful onto your chip, potentially setting your mouth on fire.

Lastly, know that the color of the salsa is not necessarily a good indicator of how spicy the salsa may be. Regardless of whether it’s red or green, all salsas can be made mild or hot depending on the amount and type of chili used.

6) Understanding Meal Times in Mexico

Eating times in Mexico may be different compared to your home country. Mealtimes are much later in Mexico! A big lunch after 2:00 pm and a light dinner after 8:00 pm is standard across much of Mexico.

For visitors to Mexico who are accustomed to eating lunch around Noon, then dinner around 6 pm, you’ll find restaurants may be empty or closed altogether during those times. To adjust to Mexico’s eating times, you may need to alter your eating times a few hours later.

But don’t worry. These traditionally later mealtimes aren’t as pronounced in Mexico’s resort areas catering to tourists. In Mexico’s tourist destinations, mealtimes often accommodate the home preferences of the international crowd. So you may not even notice the later eating hours in places like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Yet elsewhere throughout Mexico, you’ll find restaurants opening later and people dining later.

Here’s what to expect for Mexico mealtimes :

• Breakfast ( Desayuno ) : It’s not unusual for breakfast joints to open after 9 am, with breakfast patrons arriving even later in the morning. During weekends, in particular, breakfasts can act more like brunches.
• Lunch ( Comida ) : This is the biggest meal of the day and typically begins between 2 and 4 pm. Hence some restaurants serving lunch may not open until after 1 pm.
• Dinner ( Cena ) : The night meal is typically eaten between 8 and 10 pm. This is a lighter meal compared to mid-day comida and may consist of something like a plateful of tacos. That said, full dinners are still easy to come by during any evening meal.

7) Tipping at Restaurants in Mexico

It is customary and expected to tip restaurant servers in Mexico. But tipping etiquette in Mexico may be different than where you’re from. In Mexico, expect to tip 10%-15%+ in restaurants .

In no-frills joints and taquerias , a 10% tip can suffice, adjusting upwards based on the service and/or your generosity.

In proper restaurants and/or for great service, a tip of 15% or more is a nice gesture that will be appreciated by deserving wait staff.

8) Ensure the Tip Isn’t Included in the Bill

It’s not common for restaurants in Mexico to add a tip or a service fee to your receipt. But this practice has been known to occur on occasion. This practice is more common in Mexico’s touristic hotspots and when dining in large groups.

Occasionally, restaurants may add in a suggested tip or service fee and will include this in the total. If a restaurant does this, usually it’s in the amount of 15% of the total bill.

In these instances where you see a line item such as servicio (service) or propina (tip), then don’t feel obligated to tip further.

Some diners become aggravated when a suggested tip is on the bill. If so, just know that you can adjust this suggested tip upward or downward if you wish. Personally, whenever we’ve seen a tip already on the bill, we just leave it on to make the tipping process easier, as we tend to tip 15% anyways.

So just be cautious to check if a suggested tip is listed and included in the total. That way you don’t unknowingly tip double.

Note: do not confuse an added tip with the IVA. The IVA is a mandatory value-added tax that’s usually already included in menu prices. Occasionally, the IVA is listed as a separate line item on Mexico’s restaurant receipts. This is a legit charge and is NOT a tip. You still tip after the IVA.

9) Tips on Interacting with Spanish-Speaking Wait Staff at a Restaurant

In popular tourist areas in Mexico, servers in restaurants may speak some English and may have English menus available. But everywhere else, expect to receive a Spanish menu and waiters speaking español.

Don’t be intimidated. Many visitors with very limited knowledge of Spanish can still achieve communication success in a restaurant by making a little effort, maintaining a polite smile, and knowing a few key phrases.

Here are some tips and phrases to help non-Spanish-speakers in restaurants:

First interaction – drink orders : When a server first approaches your table, it’s probable that he/she is coming to ask for your drink order. Most likely they’ll ask something like ¿Gustan algo de tomar? (Would you like something to drink?).

The verbiage may be different or in rapid-fire Spanish, which you may not understand. So be ready with a response, such as Corona, margarita, Coca-Cola, agua pura, limonada, etc. Drink orders are pretty straightforward.

Ordering the meal : The next interaction will likely be the server asking for your food order. A common phrase that servers use is ¿Qué vas a querer? (What will you want?)

Hopefully, you’ve had enough time to translate the menu enough to pick out something yummy. You’ll simply need to pronounce it. If in doubt or if the server appears to be confused by your (mis)pronunciation, don’t be embarrassed to point to the line item on the menu for clarity. This will help both you and the server to ensure what you want to order is what you actually order.

When your meal arrives: ¡Buen provecho! This is a phrase regularly used in Mexico that means “enjoy your meal.” The server may say this upon delivering your order. People dining within close proximity to you or at communal tables might also say this to you. Respond with gracias . Also, know that it is courteous for you to say buen provecho whenever coming near someone’s personal space while they’re eating.

La cuenta, por favor! This is the most simplistic phrase to ask for the check. And you do need to ask. We’ll cover this more in a subsequent Mexico travel tip.

10) Translate Menus with an Image Search instead of Translation Apps

This travel tip should help non-Spanish speakers to decode a Mexican menu. When deciphering a restaurant menu in Mexico, try using Google Image search rather than Google Translate .

While Google Translate is otherwise fantastic for day-to-day translations in Mexico, it often cannot translate menu items well in Mexico. Instead, searching for the menu item in Google Images will give you a visual depiction of what the menu item is.

For example, one of my favorite foods in the state of Jalisco is “tortas ahogadas.” If you were to use an app to translate it, that would tell you it’s a “drowned cake.” That doesn’t tell you much and isn’t an accurate description.

But if you searched Google Images for “tortas ahogadas,” you’d easily see that it’s actually a sandwich filled with meat (pork) and covered in a sauce. This is not a cake at all!

There are seemingly funny words for many menu items throughout Mexico that will leave diners confused. Heck, burrito literally translates to “little donkey.”

Meanwhile, other food words don’t translate at all. For instance, a taco is a taco. Pozole translates to pozole. There is no translation for most Mexican food items. So if you don’t know what those foods are, translations won’t help you. But searching for photos will!

11) Don’t Hesitate Flagging Down a Server in Mexico

In your home country, you may be accustomed to servers constantly checking up on you. Throughout restaurants in Mexico, if you need something, the responsibility can often fall on the diner to let the server know. And it’s perfectly okay to politely wave over a server.

Need another drink? Some salsa? More limes? Run out of warm tortillas? Don’t hesitate to get your server’s attention with eye contact and/or a polite hand gesture to call them over.

12) Be Sure to Ask for the Check

You may need to put that last Mexico travel tip to use by flagging over the server to ask for the bill.

If you’re from the US, you’re probably accustomed to the bill being brought to the table automatically at the end of any meal. A server in the US will often signal this by asking “Can I get you anything else?” Upon saying “no,” the check comes out. But this exchange does not occur in Mexico.

In Mexico, there is not a culture of flipping tables. Instead, you’re meant to relax and enjoy your dining experience. You leave the restaurant whenever you’re ready. A server in Mexico may feel rude to even make the subtle suggestion that you should depart. So they’ll often just let you be until you request the check.

Even if you’ve completed your meal, the server has cleared the table entirely, and the server has asked if you’d like anything else; don’t expect to get the bill automatically. In most cases, you must specifically ask for the check.

To initiate this transaction, say la cuenta, por favor . That means, “the bill, please.”

13) Know Hours of Alcohol Sales and Ley Seca (Dry Law) in Mexico

Alcohol is typically sold in stores throughout all hours and days across most of Mexico. But there are some notable exceptions to this.

There are a few states in Mexico that do restrict the sales of alcohol to certain hours. Most notable is the state of Quintana Roo (includes: Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, etc.). Hours of alcohol sales in Quintana Roo’s stores are from 9:00 am – Midnight, Monday to Saturday. Booze sales are cut off at 5:00 pm in Quintana Roo on Sundays. The state of Yucatan similarly limits retail alcohol sales on Sundays, prohibiting it after 5:00 pm.

So plan accordingly if you want to enjoy some cervezas back at your Mérida hotel on a Sunday evening. Otherwise, you can still buy alcohol in restaurants and bars.

Additionally, Mexican states and municipalities can enact ley seca (dry law) during specific periods of time. For example, many Mexican states forbid the sale of alcohol around elections. Ley seca has also been enacted during particularly troubling times during the pandemic. If booze is banned in Mexico, there’s usually a reason for it.

14) Can You Drink in Public in Mexico?

Drinking alcohol in public (open container) is technically illegal in Mexico.

That said, drinking alcohol in public is usually tolerated throughout the country, particularly so in tourist areas. It’s not uncommon to see vendors selling to-go drinks in various locales throughout Mexico.

15) Know Restrictions on Bringing Back Tequila and Mescal

If you’re planning to purchase some bottles of tequila or mescal while in Mexico to bring home with you, do know quantities may be restricted by your home country.

🇺🇸 If you’re from the US , those traveling back to the States are generally allowed to bring back 1 bottle (up to 33.8 fl. oz.) of alcohol per person duty-free. You can find the official policy here on the US Customs and Border Protection website . Americans can bring back more than 1 bottle, but you’ll need to claim them. In doing so, you may be required to pay the appropriate import tax on every bottle in excess of 1 liter per person.

🇨🇦 Canadians can similarly carry back one bottle per person . Canada allows for up to 1.14 liters of alcohol, exempt from the special duty rate. 🇬🇧 Brits can bring back up to 4 bottles of spirits per person before having to pay excess duty.

So be sure to check your official government policy before you load up on dozens of bottles to fly home with

16) Travel Tips if Grocery Shopping and Cooking in Mexico

Those who are traveling to Mexico for a lengthy visit may find themselves venturing out to procure groceries to cook themselves. There are a number of tips that grocery shoppers and home chefs may want to be aware of when cooking for the first time in Mexico:

• Get fresh produce at local markets – We find it is usually fresher and much less expensive than in supermarkets.
• Reusable bags – Many supermarkets in Mexico no longer have plastic bags, so come prepared with your own or buy them at checkout.
• Tip the baggers – Supermarket baggers work for tips. Have small change to tip them a few pesos per bag, or perhaps $10-$20 pesos as a generous tip for a full cart.
• Try new things – While you can sometimes find staples you crave from back home, it can be fun and delicious to try local ingredients and foods.
• Learn how to cook authentic local Mexican food – With so many ingredients you’re not accustomed to using, it can sometimes be a little overwhelming to figure out what to do with them all. Attempting to cook traditional Mexican recipes can be a fun way to put all these ingredients to use. For inspiration, we love referencing the English-language recipe site IsabelEats , which has so many delicious and easy-to-follow recipes to try!

17) Properly Wash Fresh Produce in Mexico

It’s a safe move not to eat fresh produce in Mexico without first properly washing it. There is concern that raw vegetables or fruit may contain bacteria or a virus, picked up in the soil or during transportation. There’s a further contaminant risk in tap water, so simply rinsing produce with faucet water may not be enough.

Restaurants in Mexico usually take disinfecting precautions before serving fresh produce, although it’s never a guarantee. So visitors who are very risk-averse or have sensitive stomachs could consider avoiding salads and raw produce while dining out in Mexico.

Meanwhile, those in Mexico who plan to cook at home should take measures to disinfect raw produce before consuming it.

Thankfully there is a product widely sold in the produce section of Mexican supermarkets. The most popular brands we regularly see are Microdyn and BacDyn. These formulas claim to be effective against microorganisms such as salmonella, cholera, and streptococcus.

The directions on these solutions instruct mixing it with a specific ratio of water, then soaking fresh produce for a number of minutes. Cooking vegetables can also be effective in killing harmful bacteria..

Travel Tips for Using the Bathroom in Mexico

There are a few nuances to beware of when the need to use the bathroom arises. A key phrase that many visitors to Mexico already know is: ¿Dónde está el baño?  (Where is the bathroom?) That’s certainly helpful!

Yet any newcomers to Mexico should take a minute to familiarize themselves with the following Mexico travel tips to avoid potential embarrassment in the bathroom.

18) Men: Don’t Enter the “M” Bathroom Door!

“M” on a bathroom door is the women’s room in Mexico.

That “M” may signify “Men” where you’re from. But in Mexico, the “M” stands for Mujeres , or “Women”.

In Mexico, men do NOT use bathrooms marked with an M. Instead, men should look for an “H” for Hombres or occasionally a “C” for Caballeros .

Meanwhile, women can look for bathroom doors marked with M for Mujeres or D for Damas .

19) Water Temperature: “C” is Hot in Mexico

Another common acronym mistranslation in the bathroom is with water temperature. A mistake we occasionally hear is visitors turning the shower nob away from the “C” and wondering why the temperature is not getting hot.

That’s because “C” stands for Caliente , which means “hot.” To get hot water, turn the dial to “C.” To get cold water, turn the dial to “F” for Frio , which means “cold.”

20) Don’t Flush the Toilet Paper in Most Places in Mexico

Mexico’s plumbing systems can’t always accommodate toilet paper being flushed.

For visitors staying in a resort or higher-end hotel, it’s likely fine to flush your toilet paper there. But almost everywhere else in Mexico, it’s common practice to toss your used toilet paper in the basket next to the toilet.

Dispose of your toilet paper in the toilet-side bin when using bathrooms within local restaurants, local homes, and in public restroom facilities. If not, you run the risk of creating a plumbing problem.

If there’s a little basket next to a toilet, this is a clear signal you should use it to dispose of toilet paper. Don’t flush. If in doubt, just throw it out. Doing so will help to avoid a potentially embarrassing situation.

21) Carry Small Change for Public Toilets in Mexico

Public restrooms in Mexico are typically not free. There is a modest charge, usually ranging from $2-$5 pesos ($0.10-$0.25 USD). In touristic and high-traffic areas, bathroom fees can reach up to $10 pesos (~$0.50 USD).

Upon paying the restroom attendant, expect to receive a small wad of toilet paper and access to the toilets. When exiting, there should also be running water and soap available at the sinks.

Some bathrooms are cleaner than others. Most public restrooms are passable.

22) Can You Brush Your Teeth with Faucet Water in Mexico?

This is a contested question that travelers and expats in Mexico like to debate. Really, the answer depends on each specific locale and your personal tolerance for risk.

In many places throughout Mexico, bacteria or contaminants have been found in tap water after being carried through a series of pipes. But can that water still be suitable for brushing your teeth?

Since you’re not ingesting the tap water, it could be okay. However, it’s still possible to ingest a small amount accidentally. So it’s a safe bet for short-term travelers in Mexico to use purified water to brush their teeth . The CDC generally advises brushing teeth with bottled water in Mexico. In hotels, bottled water is often provided to guests to brush their teeth. Use it.

That said, if you accidentally use tap water to brush your teeth, don’t worry. Many locals and expats brush their teeth with faucet water in many locations throughout Mexico without issue. (Personally, we must admit that we do too.)

But why risk it? Place a bottle of water next to the faucet to help remind you to use it when brushing your teeth in Mexico.

Cultural & Etiquette Mexico Travel Tips

There are cultural differences in Mexico compared to other countries that visitors should be aware of.

23) Make an Effort to Speak Some Spanish

Visitors can find some English spoken throughout touristic hotspots in Mexico. Meanwhile, there is some English spoken throughout Mexico’s bigger communities but that’s never a guarantee. Elsewhere in Mexico, English is seldom spoken by the local population.

If you don’t speak Spanish, it is possible to get by, limitedly. Yet it is our firm opinion that visitors will have a far more fulfilling experience in Mexico by trying to speak some Spanish . We cannot state this Mexico travel tip enough. It’s muy importante! Having some basic knowledge of Spanish will greatly enhance your experience.

Even Mexicans who do speak English still appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak Spanish. We highly recommend learning some Spanish language or brushing up on the basics before any trip to Mexico. Knowing even a tiny amount of Spanish can really go a long way to enhance a visit to Mexico.

24) Learn These Key Phrases Before You Go

Here are just a few very basic words and phrases everyone traveling to Mexico should know :

• Hello: Hola
• Goodbye: Adíos
• Please: Por favor
• Thank you: Gracias
• You’re welcome: De nada
• Yes / No: Sí / No
• A pleasure to meet you: Mucho gusto
• How are you?: ¿Cómo está?
• How much does it cost?: ¿Cuanto cuesta?
• Excuse me (as if to get past someone): Con permiso
• Sorry / pardon me (on accident): Perdón
• I don’t understand: No entiendo
• Do you speak English?: ¿Habla Inglés?

Ready to learn more?

25) Greetings Are Very Important in Mexico

If nothing else, be sure to learn the etiquette of basic greetings in Mexico. Throughout many Latin American countries, it can be a nice gesture to say buenos días , buenas tardes , or buenas noches . But in Mexico, these greetings are much more than a simple pleasantry .

This courteous exchange is practiced widely throughout Mexico. We always encourage visitors to follow along. When greeting people with a friendly buenos días and a smile, we often notice an immediate change in the other person’s demeanor. It’s sometimes like a switch is flipped or an invisible barrier has been broken. People become at ease and smiles appear on their faces.

It’s polite to greet people when entering a local store or when approaching the cash register. Before asking someone for a price, directions, or any question, try greeting them first. If walking down a quiet street and passing an abuela (grandmother) sitting outside of her home, definitely give her a warm greeting. Use greetings whenever getting on a local bus or taxi.

Of course, it would be weird to greet every single person you cross paths with when walking down a busy street. Yet whenever in doubt, just use a greeting! Use greetings often and generously while traveling in Mexico. Smile too!

Greet people with these phrases, depending on the time of day :

• Buenos días / buen dia – Good morning/day! Use this in the morning and even into the early afternoon (before lunch).
• Buenas tardes – Good afternoon! Use this in the middle of the day and even into dusk hours.
• Buenas noches – Good night! Use this when it’s dark out.

This sign we spotted at a cafe in Guanajuato , Mexico, seems to be a humorous attempt to help train patrons on the courtesies of using greetings.

A coffee: $40 pesos A coffee please: $30 pesos Good day, a coffee please: $20 pesos

26) How to Greet Men in Mexico: Handshakes and Fist Bumps

“ Mucho gusto ” is a key phrase to say whenever meeting people in Mexico. But depending on whether meeting a man or a woman, there’s further cultural etiquette to follow.

For men meeting men, a handshake has always been customary . Yet in post-pandemic Mexico, fist bumps began to grow in favor.

For women meeting men in Mexico , a single kiss could be appropriate. More on that next.

27) How to Greet Women in Mexico: Single Kiss

In Mexico, when greeting women, it can be customary to give a kiss on the cheek .

But know that this can be reserved for friends. It would be unusual to kiss a complete stranger you just met, a tour guide, or a housekeeper. So don’t. But a kiss would be appropriate in instances of meeting friends of friends, and other social introductions. Even the female doctor we go to in Mexico greets us with a kiss.

In Mexico, a kiss greeting is a quick peck on the right cheek and it’s a single kiss . Do not do a double kiss on each cheek. This is Mexico, not Europe.

Yet in post-pandemic Mexico, kissing has given the way that handshakes have in many parts of the world. As conditions continue to ease, kissing as a greeting is slowly coming back.

If unsure if a kiss is appropriate, just let the other person lead and roll with it. This Mexico travel tip simply lets you know what to do if a new Mexican friend does come in for a kiss.

28) How to Dress in Mexico

Mexico’s beach towns can be casual in dress . But people in Mexico’s interior cities tend to dress more modestly and conservatively. In a city or town away from the coast, it may be uncommon to see someone walking around in shorts, a t-shirt, or flip-flops, even when it’s hot outside.

When walking around Mexico’s interior cities, shorts can be a rarity. They are typically worn while exercising or by children, foreigners, and to some extent, young adults. Look around. If you are visiting a place in Mexico where shorts are uncommon, you may want to consider following suit to avoid standing out. Mexico loves jeans. So jeans are always an easy choice to assimilate with the local crowd in Mexico.

But really, Mexicans typically aren’t too concerned about how foreigners are dressed. There’s no law that says you can’t wear shorts in Mexico. It can simply be a nice gesture to make some effort toward cultural assimilation. When friends come to visit us in Mexico’s central interior, we suggest leaving shorts at home. If heading to a beach town, shorts and skirts are just fine.

Definitely cover up when entering Mexico’s many historic churches, whether on the coast or not. This is a matter of respect. Ensure knees and shoulders are covered when entering any religious site.

Otherwise, wear what makes you feel comfortable in Mexico. Definitely be sure to dress for the weather.

Light, airy clothes are highly recommended along the coast and lowlands, particularly so during the late Spring and Summer months that are most hot. Still, consider long sleeves and pants in warm destinations to protect from mosquitos.

Yet it can get quite chilly, particularly at night, in Mexico’s interior cities. Many newbies to Mexico can be surprised to find the need for a good jacket to keep warm. Check the weather for your destination. (More info on weather and the best time to visit in a subsequent Mexico Travel tip.)

29) Tips for Tipping Etiquette in Mexico

Mexico is a tipping culture. But American and Canadian visitors should realize that tipping customs are different, south of the border.

Perhaps the most notable difference that visitors to Mexico may not know is that it’s customary to tip grocery baggers when at supermarkets in Mexico. So be sure to carry some small change with you to the grocery store to show these unpaid baggers some generosity.

Here is a list of tipping guidelines to be aware of when visiting Mexico in 2024:

• Restaurants : generally 10%-15%, consider more for exceptional service
• Bars : $10-$20 pesos per drink, or 10%-15% if running a tab.
• Luggage porters : $20-$50 pesos per bag, depending on the level of hotel and service
• Housekeeping : $20-$50 pesos, for each day, at your discretion. More ($100+ pesos) at luxury resorts.
• Grocery baggers : A few pesos per bag. $10-$20 pesos would be a generous tip for a full cart.
• Taxis : Round-up metered fare to the nearest $10 peso. If fare was negotiated, no tip is necessary but should be considered if provided an extra service. For example, consider $10 pesos per bag if helped with luggage.
• Gas station attendants : $10-$20 pesos. Consider more for a full fill-up with extra services (wash windows, check tire pressure, etc.)
• Tour guides : Depends on tour and service. Consider $50-$100 pesos, per person, for a half-day excursion or $100-$200 pesos, per person, for a full-day tour. Of course, consider tipping more for high-end tours and/or if a guide has really gone out of their way to help you.

Always try to tip in pesos. In touristic areas, you may be able to tip in dollars or euros. If that’s all you have, it’s better than not tipping. But tipping in a currency other than Mexican pesos creates more work for the person since they’ll have the chore of exchanging that money, which also takes a cut.

30) Being Late Is Appropriate Sometimes but Timeliness is Also Important

Mexico can be a relaxed culture and not everything will be on time. Go with the flow!

When to Arrive Late : Punctuality may not always be heeded for social visits or even some events, such as local fiestas. We typically wait to arrive at least a half-hour after posted start times for any local festival in Mexico. Even upon doing so, we’ve been among the earliest guests, watching vendors still get set up. So don’t feel a need to be prompt to any fiestas you’re invited to.

When to Be on Time : In nearly all other occurrences, prompt timing is observed In Mexico. If you have a dinner reservation, a scheduled tour, or a bus to catch – these instances should happen promptly on time. Don’t be late.

If in doubt, plan to be on time.

31) Don’t Come to Haggle in Mexico’s Markets

Sometimes visitors expect to bargain throughout Mexico’s local markets and stores. In actuality, when shopping in Mexico, bargaining is not the norm . Most often, the price is the price.

In resort-laden places that are obviously selling touristic souvenirs, it may be okay to haggle their inflated prices.

But at local markets, craft stores, and art studios, do not try to bargain down the set prices. It may be offensive to the artist or vendor.

Tips on Traveling to Mexico and Getting Around

Visitors coming to Mexico should arrive armed with their passports and be informed of local Mexican regulations. Travelers need to understand the importance of the FMM card issued to them upon arrival and realize their desired length of stay may not be guaranteed. Having some knowledge of what to expect when entering Mexico can ease travel headaches.

Once in the country, there are lots of options to get around Mexico, ranging from budget domestic flights, luxury buses, Ubers, and even a Tequila Train !

The following Mexico travel tips should help get into and around this big country, the 13th largest in the world.

32) Entering Mexico: In 2024, FMM Cards Are Being Phased Out But the Rules Remain

When flying into Mexico in the past, visitors would always receive an FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple) card during the flight. It looks like this:

FMM is a legal requirement to enter Mexico and establishes the number of days you are allowed to stay in Mexico. In the past, visitors have been issued a card that’s processed upon going through immigration at your arrival airport in Mexico.

It has always been very important for visitors to keep their FMM in a safe place while traveling in Mexico because it is required when exiting the country. But FMM cards are now being phased out by instead issuing a stamp directly in your passport with the number of days allowed. Most airports in Mexico are no longer issuing physical FMM cards. So if you do not receive an FMM card upon flying into Mexico in 2024, don’t worry !

But if you are still issued a paper FMM, be sure to keep it safe and with your passport. You may still need it upon exiting.

Also, understand that even though the physical FMM cards are being phased out, the rules behind FMM (pertaining to your time allowed in Mexico) have not changed.

33) You Need Proof of Onward Travel to Mexico

If booking a round-trip ticket to Mexico, you’re covered. This Mexico travel tip does not apply to you.

Yet some travelers and expats want to come to Mexico with open-ended plans. Since Mexico typically allows many nationalities a visa-free stay of up to 180 days, those who have the luxury of time (e.g., retirees, digital nomads, and long-term travelers) may want to travel to Mexico with an unspecified departure date during that six-month period.

But if flying to Mexico one-way, you must have proof of departure plans within that 180-day period. Sometimes authorities don’t ask for it. Increasingly, they have been. Airlines often ask for this documentation too since they must foot the bill to fly you home if Mexico denies you entry for this reason.

It’s best to secure departure plans before you travel to Mexico and have this info printed out. Authorities are simply trying to ensure visitors are not planning to illegally stay in Mexico. Without proof of onward travel, you could be denied entry.

But what if you’re traveling long-term to Mexico and are unsure of your exact departure date? Thankfully there are ways to get around this. For example, one method used is to book a refundable return ticket before flying to Mexico. Then cancel it, or reschedule, after you land.

Most airlines flying to Mexico allow free cancelation within 24 hours of booking . So before heading to the airport, it’s possible to purchase a one-way flight out of Mexico. This allows travelers to show official proof of departing Mexico. Upon landing in Mexico and clearing immigration, visitors can cancel that flight for a full refund. Of course, anyone using a tactic like this will still need to eventually book their departure within the following six months, to avoid illegally overstaying. Such tactics simply allow some added flexibility for those unsure of their departure plans.

34) Know the Immigration and Customs Procedures in Mexico

Passing through immigration in Mexico is easy and straightforward. But there are some things you should know, particularly if not accustomed to international travel.

Tip: Bring a pen on the plane with you, so you can fill out the form while on the plane. Pens are almost never provided by the airlines flying to Mexico. Obviously, you’ll need your passport too.

Immigration forms are available in English, so no translations are necessary. If a flight attendant gives you a Spanish form, ask for one in English. The immigration form requests basic information that you should already know (e.g., name, birthdate, length of stay, etc.)

But you should also come prepared with your accommodation’s name and its address . Be sure to have that info accessible (offline or printed out), so you can fill it out on the plane.

Upon arrival to Mexico, the immigration procedure is often swift. The immigration officer may ask a few simple questions, such as “What’s the reason for your visit?” or “How long are you staying?”

Then you’ll proceed to collect your luggage and go through customs. You’ll be asked to press a button . This button will produce either a green or red light on a traffic signal. It is said to be random. If you get the green light, you breeze through. If you get a red light, you’ll be subject to a more thorough customs inspection.

Then head out of the airport and get ready to enjoy Mexico!

35) Improve Your Odds of Getting a Lengthy (180-Day) Visa-Free Stay in Mexico

If visiting Mexico on vacation for a few weeks or less, this doesn’t apply. You’ll be fine. Skip to the next Mexico travel tip.

Yet long-term travelers desiring a lengthy stay in Mexico should arrive prepared to increase their chances of being allowed the maximum 6-month stay. In the past, Mexican immigration authorities have typically been generous to visitors in automatically granting the maximum length of stay (180 days). Yet during the past year or so now, immigration authorities have been cracking down on this practice, at their discretion. Visitors do not have the automatic right to a 180-day stay. Some tourists expecting a lengthy stay have been disappointed by being granted a few weeks or even less.

Here are some tactics that may help you to secure a lengthy or 180-day stay in Mexico :

• Ensure you calculate the correct number of days when completing your entry form
• Have documentation of your departure plans (as already mentioned).
• Have documentation of your paid accommodation (s) for the entire length of your stay.

Realize that this may not be necessary, as many visitors are still breezing through immigration with a 180-day stay granted. But for those planning a longer visit to Mexico, it’s always best to be prepared in order to avoid disappointment in being granted a shorter stay than desired. Realize that even with thorough documentation, immigration authorities can still restrict your stay. But having corroborating paperwork should increase your chances.

Meanwhile, visitors who are regularly having lengthy stays in Mexico should consider seeking Mexican residency visas .

36) How to Travel Around Mexico

By land area, Mexico is the 13 th largest country in the world ! There’s a lot of ground to cover here!

There are many great ways to travel across Mexico. How you choose to get around the country can be a matter of personal preference, distance, budget, and existing infrastructure.

Whether by planes, trains, or automobiles, the infographic below provides a quick primer on the possibilities of traveling around Mexico:

37) Save on Flights to Mexico: Fly into Hub Cities Then Travel Domestically

Mexico has over sixty commercial airports throughout the country, offering prospective passengers an array of options to fly into. For those who have more money than time, it’s logical to seek a flight to your destination city in Mexico.

But those traveling to Mexico on a budget can save a significant sum of money by flying into one of Mexico’s large international airports and then planning subsequent travel from there.

CUN (Cancun) and MEX (Mexico City) tend to have the most attractive fares from locations outside of Mexico. Once in Cancun or Mexico City, you can regularly find domestic flights for around $50 USD, or less, to your ultimate destination in Mexico. It’s an extra hassle to do this, but it can save several hundred dollars!

For example, one-way flights from our home airport (MIA) to Oaxaca usually cost around $600-$800 USD roundtrip and require a transfer. Instead, we fly into Mexico City and then book a separate domestic flight to Oaxaca. Doing it this way, we spend $200 roundtrip to MEX and then about $70 to Oaxaca and back. As two people, this routine saves us roughly a thousand dollars in airfare each time flying from the US to satellite destinations in Mexico. So it’s well worth looking into!

We find these savings regularly hold true whether going to Oaxaca, Queretaro , Puerto Vallarta, Merida , San Miguel de Allende, San Cristobal de las Casas , and other popular regional destinations.

But these significant cost savings do come with come at the expense of significant hassle and risk. Using two different airlines, you’ll need to collect luggage at the connecting airport and then check in to the domestic flight. If the first flight is delayed, you run the risk of missing the domestic flight, which you’d need to rebook at your own expense. So use caution if using this method and plan lengthy layovers or even stopovers. Weigh out the risk-vs-reward for yourself before implementing this money-saving strategy.

38) Using Low-Cost Domestic Flights in Mexico

Mexico has a fantastic network of buses that are great when needing to travel between cities within relatively close proximity. Yet when bus travel times exceed 10 hours or so, it can often be more logical and even more economical to use one of the many domestic flights instead.

As mentioned, fares on Mexico’s domestic airlines are usually quite inexpensive, making travel throughout Mexico very affordable.

The two most popular low-cost carriers in Mexico are Volaris and VivaAerobus .

Personally, we find Volaris to be perfectly acceptable, and particularly so for the price. As for VivaAerobus, we tend to hear more complaints about them. That said, we’ve found VivaAerobus to be fine for a short flight and a cheap ticket on a budget airline. Your mileage may vary.

39) Use Mexico’s Excellent Buses for Domestic Travel

Don’t just consider domestic flights in Mexico. The first-class bus system in Mexico is excellent!

There are premium passenger buses connecting nearly all the major cities and towns throughout Mexico. And we find the level of service on Mexico’s buses is far better than most long-distance bus services around the globe.

On Mexico’s first-class buses, expect big comfy reclining faux-leather seats, complimentary snacks & drinks, and individual seat-back TVs. Traveling by bus in Mexico can be a very nice travel experience! Sit back and watch the Mexican countryside go by.

By Mexican standards, prices on these premium buses might seem a bit steep. But on a global standard, it’s a great value. Expect to pay somewhere in the realm of $750 pesos ($30 USD) for a 5 or 6-hour premium bus trip in Mexico.

There are more economical buses too. Those can be fine for short jaunts. But unless you’re traveling throughout Mexico on a tight budget, we find it’s worth it to splurge for the premium buses whenever available. The premium buses aren’t only nicer, they make minimal stops (if at all) and use toll roads, so you’ll arrive at your destination much faster.

Three of the more popular bus companies to consider using are:

• Primera Plus – Many popular routes throughout Central Mexico.
• ETN – Many popular routes throughout Central Mexico.
• ADO – Most common throughout Yucatan and the southern half of Mexico.

40) A Trick to Buying Bus Tickets Online in Mexico

Visitors to Mexico can’t purchase Mexican bus tickets online . You must have a local Mexican credit card to do so. Otherwise, you’ll need to buy your bus tickets at a bus terminal or travel agency when in Mexico. This can be inconvenient, seats may sell out, and you can miss online-only promotional bus fares. Thankfully, there is a workaround allowing visitors to purchase bus tickets using their mobile devices.

If you want to purchase your bus ticket online, here’s the trick – simply use the app! The official phone apps for bus companies do accept foreign credit cards even though the websites do not.

This works with the Primera Plus app and the ADO app. Upon the last try, we did not have success with the ETN app.

41) Tips for Using Ubers and Taxis in Mexico

Ubers are found throughout most major cities in Mexico. At last count, Uber is operating in 83 Mexican cities. Check Uber for up-to-date listings.

Ubers in Mexico tend to be reliable, safe, and very affordable. Since the prices are fixed through the app and the ride is tracked, this greatly lowers the risk of getting ripped off or being taken for a ride around town. Plus, if you don’t speak any Spanish, the app makes it super easy to simply input your address without the need to give verbal directions.

Non-Spanish-speakers should be aware that Uber drivers in Mexico may still have some questions for you. Perhaps they’ll ask if the radio station is okay or if you want air conditioning. Sometimes the driver asks if he should follow the route on the app or if you have a preferred direction. (We default to the app for simplicity).

There’s no need to download a separate app to use Uber in Mexico. Use the same app you use at home. Just ensure you’re able to access data in Mexico to use it (more on that later).

Sometimes Uber wait times may be long, depending on the location. Occasionally an Uber will cancel on you, resulting in having to wait again. While not often, these annoyances have happened more in Mexico than in other countries where we’ve used Uber in. Despite that, Ubers have been an overwhelmingly positive experience. You can also consider an alternative to Uber  in Mexico, Didi . Or use a taxi.

Taxis are sometimes good options if Ubers aren’t available. But taxis can be a hassle for non-Spanish-speaking visitors. Many taxis throughout Mexico do not use the meter. So you must agree on a price before the ride begins. In highly touristic areas such as Cancun, some taxis may try to inflate prices or other devious tactics to rip you off. Dishonest taxi practices are far less common elsewhere in Mexico, but can still occur.

Personally, we’ve found most taxis to be pleasant and trustworthy. Of course, it all comes down to each individual taxi driver. Still, we prefer Uber when possible for its simplicity and safety (trackable/accountable).

42) Taxis Can Be Easiest When Arriving at Mexico’s Airports

It can be difficult to catch an Uber from the airport upon first arriving. Regulations may prevent Uber pick-up at some airport locations, although this is improving. But you still may encounter a delay in being picked up or confusion on the exact meeting point at the unfamiliar airport you’ve just arrived at.

Instead, using a taxi from airports in Mexico can be the easiest and fastest way to get moving. In most airports in Mexico, ticketing systems make it all easier and help keep taxis honest. Upon exiting the airport terminal, most airports have official taxi and shuttle kiosks. You purchase a ticket there, based on your destination.

You’re then directed to a corresponding taxi rank, where a driver will quickly whisk you away. Simply hand the taxi driver the ticket you purchased and off you go. The driver will still need to know the location and/or address. Non-Spanish speakers should either have this printed out or be prepared to show the address on their phones. Your taxi driver will appreciate that.

43) Tips for Driving in Mexico

If you’re a confident driver, the freedom of having a car in Mexico can be a fun and efficient way to get around some regions. We find the Yucatan peninsula to be particularly conducive to driving in Mexico for those wanting to tour many different places. For example, the Puuc Route makes for an attractive drive, connecting a series of Mayan ruins in the Yucatan countryside!

In other regions in Mexico and big cities, rental cars can be hectic. Traffic, parking, and unfamiliar driving customs are just a few hassles that may be encountered. We often find Ubers and/or public transportation to be more convenient within Mexico’s cities compared to the burden of having a rental car. Weigh your options and your personal preferences.

Car rentals in Mexico can be a good experience and sometimes come at bargain prices. We’ve successfully rented cars from Cancun and Merida for as little as $5/day. Understand that those rates don’t include the required insurance though.

If you do want to drive in Mexico, it’s pretty straightforward. You don’t need an international driver’s license . Your home license should work just fine.

Whether renting a car or driving in from the US, here are some practical Mexico driving tips to follow:

• Stay on the highway. Mexico’s highways and toll roads tend to be great, well-maintained, and efficient for covering longer distances.
• Just be sure to keep cash with you to be able to pay the tolls, as highways in Mexico have tolls to be paid in cash.
• Use map apps with caution in rural areas . Navigation apps such as Google Maps work in Mexico, but they can sometimes suggest poor roads in places not widely traveled. Be skeptical of route options when traveling in rural areas.
• Beware rural roads in Mexico can contain road hazards , such as topes (speed bumps), potholes, and livestock. Be alert.
• It’s widely advised to avoid driving at night .
• Don’t use blinkers to signal you’re passing . They’re used for turns and to indicate it’s safe to pass.
• Carefully obey Mexico’s driving laws such as following speed limits, using seat belts, and not using your phone while driving.
• You can get cited for driving through a yellow light . Yellow lights in Mexico essentially act the same way as red lights. A blinking green light indicates the light will be changing soon.
• Know that turning right on red is illegal in Mexico, although many drivers regularly do it.
• Know that any traffic infraction could get you pulled over by the policia. Know what to do if the police want a mordida .

44) How to Deal with Mordidas – Police Traffic Bribes in Mexico

Police in Mexico have been known to pull over tourists for an infraction (real or made-up) and ask for a mordida . That’s a bribe and it’s illegal in Mexico . It can be scary for travelers to be put in this position and you should know in advance what to do.

If a police officer is ticketing you and suggests payment onsite, here’s what you can do. First, determine whether you may have done anything wrong. If you legitimately didn’t commit the road offense you’re accused of, you can ask to go down to the police station to discuss it with a police chief. This will frequently get you out of it altogether and the officer may just send you on your way.

If you do go down to the station, you can plead your case. Worst case scenario, you’ll have to pay a small fine for the minor traffic infringement you’re accused of.  If you were speeding, ran a light, or other a minor infraction, then the police certainly have the right to ticket you. But they may instead suggest paying the officer right there. That’s a bribe.

Proceeding with the bribe may be convenient and seem like an attractive way out of this uncomfortable situation. But doing so is further illegal and also helps to encourage this practice. So it is recommended to go the official route to pay for the ticket. Each state has different procedures for paying traffic fines and you can find more info here (in Spanish).

Sometimes when insisting on paying the ticket, the police may even just let you go since the bribe failed and they may not want to deal with the ticketing procedures. Not paying the bribe helps to discourage mordidas .

45) Tips on Getting Gas in Mexico

Gas stations in Mexico offer full service. This means that you do not have the option to get out of the car and pump the gas yourself. An attendant does this for you.

When you arrive at the gas pump, check to ensure the gas meter starts at zero. Upon paying, have small change on hand to tip the gas attendant. $10-$20 pesos is acceptable. If he performs extra services, such as washing your windows, err on the higher side.

46) Where to Find the Best Accommodation (and Deals) in Mexico

You can find accommodation throughout Mexico catering to all budgets. There are many cheap & cheerful hostels to serve backpackers, plenty of luxury beach resorts catering to vacationers, and many mid-range hotels in between.

Hostels in Mexico can be great for solo travelers and those who simply enjoy the hostel vibe. Most hostels throughout Mexico tend to maintain generally good standards, can be socially active, and also offer activities. Expect to pay $5-$30 USD for a bed in a shared room. Popular coastal locations may be even higher.

To find a hostel in Mexico, search Hostelworld.com , We’ve found them to have the largest selection of hostels and prices for Mexico.

Budget and mid-range hotels can be a great option for value-oriented travelers in Mexico. We can often find nice 3-star hotels somewhere in the vicinity of $25-$50 USD per night in most locations throughout Mexico, although many 3-star hotels will be higher. 3-star hotel prices in popular coastal regions and desirable Mexico City locations will likely exceed $50/night, but plenty of options should still exist under $100. Elsewhere throughout Mexico, there are some incredible hotel bargains to be found.

We tend to find the best Mexico hotel deals on :

• Booking.com (Priceline group) and
• Hotels.com (Expedia group).

Booking.com tends to have the greatest selection and often has some of the best Mexico hotel deals too. But it’s worth also checking Hotels.com . In Mexico, we’ve found hotels.com tends to have less properties listed throughout Mexico, compared to Booking. But we regularly find better Mexico hotel deals listed on Hotels.com. It can be worth searching both when looking for hotel deals in Mexico.

Luxury accommodation can be found in most major cities and are in abundance throughout Mexico’s prime beach areas. Mexico’s all-inclusive resorts can be a relaxing, indulgent, and wonderful experience. But you must also realize that all-inclusive resorts can isolate visitors from the many charms found outside the resort’s walls.

Resort prices in Mexico usually cost slightly less than comparable properties in the US and Caribbean destinations, but still cost well into the hundreds per night. Better deals on luxury hotels in Mexico can be found in the off-season and away from the coast.

47) Tips for Airbnbs and Home/Apartment Rentals in Mexico

Rental Units like Airbnb and VBRO can be a good choice for accommodation in Mexico, particularly so for long-term stays and/or for larger groups.

To score an awesome place you’ll enjoy, practice these travel tips before booking a home rental in Mexico :

• It is wise to book rental units as early as possible, since Mexico’s best rentals tend to get reserved well in advance, sometimes leaving undesirable or overpriced rentals for those who waited to book.
• Understand the neighborhood to ensure walkability to local attractions and conveniences, since Mexican cities are often sprawling.
• Check carefully for desired amenities. Some amenities you assume are standard where you’re from may not be in Mexico.
• If wifi is important, ask the host for the speed before booking. WiFi speed varies throughout Mexico.
• Lastly, read reviews very carefully, as this can help weed out any problematic rental properties.

Travel Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico

Is mexico safe for travel.

Short answer : Yes, it can be. Yet traveling anywhere can include some risks and precautions to heed.

Long answer :

Safety is relative and safety in Mexico is a very subjective topic. Mexico often receives a bad reputation for crime and safety concerns. But this reputation is often overblown.

Prospective visitors to Mexico must understand that movies, tv shows, news, and other media often paint a dangerous depiction of Mexico that is unrealistic and/or showcases a tiny slice of Mexico that most visitors never encounter. In reality, Mexico is widely a very friendly country rather than a crime-ridden place to be afraid of.

Understand that millions of people visit Mexico each year and the vast majority experience no safety issues . Anecdotally, we personally have always felt safe traveling in Mexico. Most first-time visitors agree that Mexico is far safer than their preconceived notions and that the level of safety can feel about the same as in the US.

That said, it would also be naive to portray Mexico as a crime-free paradise. Although not particularly widespread, crime can and does occur in Mexico. Beware that petty theft, such as phone snatch-and-grabs or pickpocketing, does happen on occasion. Such occurrences can be even more common in some of Mexico’s larger cities and busy touristic areas. It can always be a good idea to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, but without being overly paranoid.

Also, Mexico’s increasing homicide rate cannot be ignored. But those stats should be put into context for visitors. Most homicides in Mexico are targeted, very rarely directed at or even involving tourists. Of course, every once in a while there has been a horrifying headline that splashes across the news cycles. Potential visitors must realize such incidents are infrequent, which is exactly why it makes the news. It’s uncommon, shocking, and newsworthy.

Mexico’s tourism industry is a major contributor to the country’s economy, and the government has a strong interest in ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors.

During eight years of living/traveling within over half the states throughout Mexico, we’ve never experienced or even witnessed any petty crimes. That said, we’ve known people who have fallen victim to crime. It can happen in Mexico, just as crime can occur all around the world.

48) Crime Prevention Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico

Some tips to stay safe from crime in Mexico:

• Stay away from bad neighborhoods (which are generally easily avoidable)
• Research your destination to understand any safety risks, dangerous areas, or recent crime
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep personal items close & secure, particularly in crowded places.
• Don’t flaunt wealth.
• Keep valuables at home or in a hotel safe.
• Don’t wander around unknown areas late at night.
• Don’t buy drugs.
• Basically, use common sense .

Simply take the same modest precautions that are widely advised when traveling anywhere. Using common-sense tactics can go a long way to staying safe in Mexico.

It’s always a good idea to review up-to-date travel warnings and guidance from your home country, before your trip to Mexico. Below are official links to travel warnings put out by the countries that most commonly visit this website:

• 🇺🇸 US Department of State – Travel Advisories for Mexico
• 🇨🇦 Canada Official Travel Advisories for Mexico
• 🇬🇧 UK Foreign Travel Advice for Mexico
• 🇦🇺 Australia Smart Traveller Full Advice for Mexico
• 🇳🇿 New Zealand Safe Travel advisories for Mexico
• 🇫🇷 France ministère de l’Europe et des Affaires étrangères: Mexique
• 🇩🇪 Deutschland Auswärtiges Amt: Reise- und Sicherheitshinweise für Mexiko
• 🇳🇱 Nederland Reisadvies Mexico | Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken

49) Don’t Be Distracted: Talk, Gawk, or Walk

Here’s a real safety travel hazard in Mexico – walking! When roaming around a busy street in Mexico, there tends to be a lot going on. It’s easy to become preoccupied and walk right into a hazard.

In Mexico, you’ll encounter uneven sidewalks, busy traffic, oncoming pedestrians, tripping hazards, a random hole in the ground, and so much more. Pay attention!

It’s so easy to become distracted by admiring a mural, a bustling market, an interesting passerby, an enticing street food vendor, or any number of sights you may not be accustomed to seeing. In these instances, simply step aside and soak it all in.

Also, step aside if using your phone, checking a map, or chatting with a friend. All too often have we seen distracted walkers in Mexico take a spill and run into people while roaming the city streets. The level of distraction can intensify after a few tequilas, so be careful out there!

A friend living in Mexico once told us, that you must choose to either “talk, gawk, or walk.” This sage advice with a rhyme can help to be mindful when exploring Mexico on foot.

50) Practice Earthquake Safety in Mexico

Mexico is one of the most seismically active regions of the world. In recent times, there is an average of about one strong (or higher) earthquake occurring each year in Mexico. From 2010 to 2019, there were a total of 10 earthquakes in Mexico above 6.0 magnitude on the Richter scale.

But only portions of Mexico lie in areas of high seismic activity. Mexico’s southern Pacific Coast states (e.g., Oaxaca, Guerrero, Chiapas) have been very active in recent times. Mexico City has experienced some notable earthquakes too. Meanwhile, the Yucatan and much of northern Mexico rarely experience a tremor.

If you’re traveling to an earthquake zone in Mexico, it can be a good idea to familiarize yourself with earthquake safety . Know where your hotel’s emergency exits are. Be sure to have an understanding of how to react if an earthquake unexpectedly strikes.

This SkyAlert app ( for Android , for iPhones ) gives us some peace of mind. It’s an earthquake app, specifically for use in Mexico, that sends out instant notifications when earthquakes are detected. It may give you a few extra seconds to react before the shaking begins.

51) Know the Threat of Hurricanes in Mexico

The country of Mexico sits in a region that is prone to occasional tropical storms and hurricanes. Visitors should be aware that the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and Mexico’s Pacific hurricane season is from May 15 to November 30, with the peak season of hurricanes being most active running from August through October.

Don’t necessarily avoid traveling to Mexico’s coastline during hurricane season. There are often no storms brewing during this time. Just be aware hurricanes can and do occur during the late summer and early fall time frame.

If traveling to Mexico during these more active months, it’s wise to keep an eye on any tropical developments. Hurricanes tend to form in advance to give a limited warning of a potential threat within a few days of arrival. Check the National Hurricane Center in the days before traveling to Mexico for warnings of any impending storms. If there is a potential hurricane threatening the area of Mexico you’re planning to travel to, it would be wise to consider canceling or postponing the trip.

Also, because Mexico is such a large country with much coastline, the threat of hurricanes tends to be localized. Understand the locality of any looming storm. For example, if there’s a hurricane barreling towards Puerto Vallarta in the Pacific, it will not have any effects on Cancun and the Caribbean coast. Again, Mexico is a very large country.

52) Prevent Mosquito Bites to Avoid Dengue Fever and other Diseases

Mosquitos are more than an annoyance in Mexico. They can carry diseases, such as dengue fever. It’s a safe idea to take precautions to avoid getting bit in the first place. In areas of Mexico where mosquitos are common, be sure to apply mosquito repellent and/or wear long-sleeve shirts and pants.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness found in Mexico. According to Mayo Clinic , “Mild dengue fever causes a high fever and flu-like symptoms. The severe form can cause serious bleeding, shock, and death.”

During the past few years, Mexico has shown an increase in dengue cases. In 2023, there were over 54,406 confirmed dengue cases in Mexico and a total of nearly 277,963 probable cases, a sharp uptick from 2022 (12,671 confirmed, 59,918 probable). Source: Department of Health Report .

Dengue fever cases tend to be most prevalent in Mexico during the latter half of the year, usually peaking around October. So visitors may want to take extra precautions during these more active months. But those in areas of Mexico with mosquitos can be susceptible to dengue at any time.

The Mexican government updates a weekly dengue report (in Spanish) regarding the prevalence and locations of dengue cases. So you may want to take a glance at the report to see up-to-date dengue conditions for your Mexico travel destination(s).

In 2024, zika and chikungunya are almost non-existent in Mexico. During 2023, Mexico only saw 29 zika cases and 2 chikungunya cases. To see if the situation has changed since the time of publishing, you can check Mexico’s government’s up-to-date report for zika and the chikungunya report  (both in Spanish).

Malaria isn’t much of a concern in Mexico since most of the country is not a malaria zone. The CDC currently recommends prophylaxis (such as antimalarials) only for the state of Chiapas and a southern portion of the state of Chihuahua. See CDC for up-to-date malaria info and advisory .

Be sure to pack some good mosquito repellent . We like this Picaridin Insect Repellent that has proven very effective for us yet is DEET-free, non-greasy, fragrance-free, long-lasting, and has very good prices on Amazon . To go all-natural, we also sometimes use Repel’s Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent.

53) No More Covid Restrictions or Requirements – What to Know

Pandemic conditions in Mexico evolved, as they have throughout much of the world. While several government-imposed restrictions did exist in Mexico from 2020 to 2022, those restrictions in Mexico have since eased.

Visit coronavirus.gob.mx (and translate to English) for complete information about Mexico’s current recommendations, guidelines, and more.

Wearing masks is no longer required throughout Mexico. That said, some Mexicans still choose to wear masks.

When flying into or entering the country, Mexico currently does not require proof of vaccination, negative Covid test results , or quarantine requirements.

54) Sick in Mexico? The Quick & Easy Way to See a Doctor: Pharmacies!

If you become ill while in Mexico with something not-too-serious, such as a stomach bug or common cold, knowing this travel tip will help get you on the mend. Many of the popular pharmacy chains across Mexico have a doctor on site who can help diagnose your symptoms and write a prescription for any medications or antibiotics that may help you to feel better.

We’ve used these pharmacy doctors many times throughout Mexico and have found these visits to be super quick, easy, comprehensive, and inexpensive. There’s no appointment necessary for walk-in visits. Often these consultations are free (no cost), simply paying for the prescription medication and an optional tip jar on the doctor’s desk to thank them for their complimentary service.

On other occasions, there’s been a very minimal charge (e.g., $30 pesos, ~US$1.50) for a visit. Usually, you can find these doctors through a separate door/entrance attached to the pharmacy building.

Of course, if you have a more serious ailment, you may want to seek appropriate treatment. But the doctors found in pharmacies can be a helpful and easy way to be seen and treated quickly.

55) Why Travel Insurance Is Important for an International Trip to Mexico

While Mexico can be generally safe, you never know what may occur. Possibilities include earthquakes, canceled flights, hurricanes (June-Nov), car accidents, lost baggage, your phone falling in the water, your camera getting lost or stolen, rental car damage, etc. Or you could just get sick while on vacation.

The most serious possibility would be a medical emergency or major accident, in which you’d need extensive hospitalization and/or medical evacuation back to your home country. Your medical insurance back home almost certainly would not cover such a catastrophic event in a foreign country. This is why travel insurance coverage can be so important when traveling to Mexico, or anywhere.

Travel insurance will have you covered so that you don’t incur the high cost of these unfortunate possibilities. We never roam around Mexico without travel insurance. The type of travel insurance you use may depend on the type of trip, expenses, and the amount of coverage you seek. We have personally used all three of these travel insurances during different trips to Mexico. Get quotes for your trip, review the coverage, and see what may work best for you:

• Safety Wing – A cost-effective solution for travel medical insurance, with minimal coverage, used by many digital nomads and long-term travelers. Get a quick quote .
• World Nomads – More coverage, can be particularly good for medium-term travels, shorter trips to Mexico, those without any existing travel insurance coverage, and those who partake in adventure activities (for which special coverage can be extended). Get a quick quote .

Money Tips and Ways to Save in Mexico

Those unaware of payment nuances in Mexico can squander travel funds on unnecessary fees and charges. It pays to know how to get low conversion rates from your home currency to the Mexican peso.

The following Mexico travel tips will help to maximize your pesos and reveal other financial practicalities throughout the county.

56) Pay in Pesos – Beware of Prices in USD

The local currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Prices you encounter should always be listed in Mexican pesos. Most businesses in Mexico only accept payment in pesos.

When in highly touristic areas of Mexico, some establishments may accept USD but will often inflate prices. Take caution when shopping at places with prices listed in US dollars. These shops are clearly geared towards international tourists and priced accordingly.

57) Learn the Conversion and a Trick to Easily Calculate in Your Head

The conversion rate for the Mexican peso is constantly changing. Check xe.com for the current rate for your currency.

For those visiting Mexico from the US, there’s a simple math trick that will allow you to easily convert Mexican pesos (MXN) to US dollars (USD) in your head. To get a rough estimate of the cost in USD: drop a digit and divide by two .

For example, let’s say you see a price listed at $200 pesos.

Removing the last digit (0) brings you to $20, then divide by two = $10 USD.

So $200 pesos is roughly $10 USD. It’s not exact, as today’s rate shows that $200 pesos is $10.88 USD. But it’s close enough to be able to do the rough math in your head without having to break out your phone to calculate the cost of something.

58) Use Credit Cards in Mexico, But Also Carry Cash

Common credit cards (e.g., Visa, Master Card) are widely accepted in Mexico at places like hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and chain stores.

But smaller stores and street vendors typically only accept cash. So it can always be a good idea to carry some pesos on you.

59) When Paying with Credit Card in Mexico – Select Pesos

Small shops and street vendors typically only take cash, in pesos. Yet most larger shops, hotels, and restaurants in Mexico will accept common credit cards (e.g. Visa, MasterCard). If using credit cards in Mexico, ensure your bank/credit card has a 0% international fee . Many do. If your card does not, you may want to consider getting a new credit card before your trip.

Occasionally when using credit cards in Mexico, the credit card reader will recognize it’s a foreign card and offer to perform the currency conversion in your home currency (e.g., US Dollar). With most credit cards, it’s best NOT to accept this. When accepting the rate from your home currency, the exchange rate tends to be inflated. Instead, choose to pay in pesos, allowing your credit card to perform the conversion. If your credit card has a 0% international conversion fee, selecting pesos will be in your best financial interest.

60) How to Get Pesos in Mexico

To get pesos in Mexico, the main two options are:

• at ATMs, or
• change your home currency at currency exchanges.

Typically, ATMs will give the best exchange rates when changing your home currency to pesos. But this depends on the ATM and also any fees or international rates that your home bank may charge. More on that next.

If not using ATMs, you can find currency exchanges , known as “casas de cambios.” They’re located when exiting Mexico’s airports, in large cities, and in touristic areas. Mexico’s currency exchanges usually have no flat fee. Instead, they perform the conversion at an inflated rate. That said, we’ve noticed that currency exchanges in Mexico do tend to offer better rates and lower fees compared to those in the US. So if you’re going to exchange cash, it could prove best to wait to do it in Mexico.

If planning to exchange money in Mexico, realize that it can also be uncomfortable and risky to carry large sums of cash around. Hence, ATMs can be a preferable way to periodically get pesos, one transaction at a time.

ATMs are widely found throughout Mexico at banks, convenience stores, and elsewhere. Usually, ATMs can prove to be the most inexpensive option for converting your money to pesos, but you need to know a few tips when using these cash machines!

61) Get a Good Exchange Rate at Mexico’s ATMs

ATMs in Mexico usually charge a fee, which could range from $20 pesos (US$1) on the low end to $100+ pesos (~US$5+) on the high end. If you’re making ATM withdrawals often, it could prove economical to shop around to find a low-fee ATM .

Use ATMs at banks in Mexico. ATMs located at banks tend to give a fair exchange rate that’s very close to the actual rate that day. ATMs at stores and elsewhere tend to carry higher fees and/or exchange rates.

Also, understand that your home bank may charge international fees. Before departing on your trip to Mexico, inquire about what international fees or conversion rates your bank charges. If your bank’s fees are high and you’re on a long trip to Mexico, consider opening a checking account with a bank that has no international fees at ATMs . We use a Charles Schwab checking account, which carries no ATM fees, no int’l fees, and even refunds any fees the ATM charges.

62) Decline the Conversion Rate at Mexico’s ATMs

To further save on Mexico ATM fees, accept the transaction fee but decline the conversion rate . Mexico ATMs will always ask you to accept the transaction fee. You must accept this transaction fee to continue.

Yet some ATMs in Mexico will also ask you to accept the conversion rate. This is a poor rate. You can, and should, decline the conversion rate. This allows your home bank to make the conversion, which should be a much more favorable rate.

Just to reiterate, accept the transaction fee, and decline the conversion rate !

63) Break Big Bills Whenever You Can

As of 2020, Mexico has a new $1,000-peso note (approximately US$50). This $1,000-peso note is the largest bill you’ll encounter. If you happen to get one, you’ll likely have an extremely difficult time breaking it into smaller change. More common is a $500-peso bill, worth about US$25. This too can be difficult to break. Many vendors in Mexico don’t have change for a $500-peso note.

If making a larger purchase (hundreds of pesos), be sure to use large bills to break them.

Use these big bills whenever you can to get smaller denominations. Chain convenience stores (such as Oxxo and 7-11) tend to be better stocked with change, so can be opportune places to break a large bill even with smaller purchases.

Otherwise, visitors to Mexico can repeatedly find themselves in situations where they’d like a drink ($10 pesos) or to use a public restroom ($5 pesos), with only a $500-peso note to pay for it. It won’t be accepted.

Don’t use your small change unless you need to or have accumulated an abundance of it. You’ll want to try to hoard as much small change as possible for the small purchases you’ll undoubtedly be making throughout Mexico.

Practicalities and More Mexico Travel Tips

“How do I use my phone in Mexico?” “Should I avoid traveling to Mexico during the rainy season?” “What should I pack for a trip to Mexico?” These are practical questions that come up often that we’re happy to answer. The following Mexico travel tips should prove helpful in preparing for your trip!

64) Using Plugs and Electrical Outlets in Mexico

Do you need a power adapter in Mexico?

Mexico uses type-A (two-prong) and type-B (three-prong) outlets. This is the same as is used throughout the US and Canada. The standard voltage is 127 V. So if you are charging devices in Mexico brought from elsewhere in North America, you’ll be fine – no adapters are needed.

That said, it’s very common throughout Mexico to only encounter the two-pronged variety (type-A) outlets. So those with three-prong plugs may run into issues. Some visitors simply remove the third prong, known as the ground prong. Although effective, electricians warn removing the third prong can pose a safety hazard . Consider a 3-Prong to 2-Prong Adapter Converter .

If you’re traveling to Mexico from Europe, Asia, Australia, etc., be sure to pack a travel adapter so you can charge your electronics.

65) How to Use Mobile Phones with Data in Mexico

Having data on your mobile phone in Mexico can prove extremely helpful. It will allow you to get directions, translate important info, find a good restaurant, discover things to do, connect with other people, or post on social media to show your friends how awesome Mexico is.

But you need data . There are many different options to have mobile phone connectivity in Mexico. Here are three common ways to get data on your phone in Mexico:

• Using your home phone & SIM to roam while in Mexico
• Switch to a no-contract carrier with free roaming in Mexico to arrive connected
• Buy a local SIM card after arriving in Mexico

66) How to use locked (in a contract) phones on roaming in Mexico, short trips

Contact your carrier before your trip to weigh your options. Some unlimited plans may already cover usage in Mexico, so you may have nothing to worry about. But other phone plans may hit you with exorbitant roaming fees.

Be sure to understand your Mexico coverage and any associated roaming costs of your phone plan. Before you depart for Mexico, consider adjusting your plan to best meet your needs while in Mexico. Some carriers offer packages you can add that provide coverage in Mexico. Once you have a roaming plan in place in Mexico, ensure the network settings on your mobile device has roaming switched to the on position.

67) How to Use Phones in Mexico and Arrive Connected

If your phone is eSIM compatible , then the quickest, easiest, and least expensive way to get data in Mexico is to get an eSIM plan online. Airalo is a trusted eSIM provider to travelers to Mexico and their plans start for as little as $8 (1 GB). It’s an easy setup process that you can do before you depart for Mexico to arrive connected.

If you don’t have an eSIM-compatible phone, you can still change your physical SIM card to one that has an inexpensive month-to-month plan that allows free roaming in Mexico, just so long as you have an unlocked phone (no contract).

This will allow you to have access to data from the moment your plane touches down, with no need to deal with exchanging SIM cards once in Mexico. You can keep your US number. We have used each of these US-based no-contract plans in Mexico and have been pleased:

• Simple Mobile has monthly no-contract plans with free roaming in Mexico (and 16 Latin Am countries), unlimited talk, and text, with plans that start at $25/mo that include 3 gb of data.
• Google Fi works in Mexico (and all over the world), and costs $20 + $10 for every GB used

Once you have a plan that works in Mexico, ensure your network settings have roaming switched on. Also, do note that these plans are not intended to be used in Mexico indefinitely. So carriers will terminate your service if they notice you are using the SIM card outside of the US for an extended period of time (e.g., several months).

68) How to Get a Local SIM Card in Mexico

If you have an unlocked phone, taking a longer trip, want an MX number, and cheap rates, then getting a local SIM card in Mexico is your best option.

After arriving, buy a local Mexican SIM card with a no-contract plan. Upon arrival in Mexico, you can buy a SIM card at local convenience stores, such as Oxxo. The phone carrier Telcel is the most common option throughout Mexico.

We regularly use TelCel and have been satisfied. They have no-contract monthly plans ranging from $200-$500 pesos (US$10-$25) depending on your data needs.

Setting up a Telcel SIM card is not a seamless process. But it’s moderately easy if you have some understanding of how your phone works and know a little Spanish. If you happen to purchase from a particularly friendly store clerk, they may even help you set up your SIM card.

69) Best Apps to Download when Traveling to Mexico

Here are some apps that may prove helpful while in Mexico. Prepare for your trip and download before you go:

• Google Maps – discover places, get directions – free ( Android , iPhone )
• Google Translate – translate signs, menus, conversations, everything – free ( Android , iPhone )
• Babbel – Learn and practice Spanish – subscription-based, get up to 60% off your subscription
• Uber – popular rideshare and food delivery app – pay for service ( Android , iPhone )
• Didi – this is an alternative to Uber – pay by service ( Android , iPhone )
• Rappi – Popular grocery and/or food delivery in MX – pay by service ( Android , iPhone )
• WhatsApp – Widely used in MX to communicate – free ( Android , iPhone )
• SkyAlert – Earthquake alerts, be warned, free/paid versions ( Android , iPhone )
• MoveIt – Helpful for public transit in MX – free ( Android , iPhone )
• transportation apps – download apps for your airline(s) and bus companies
• UnitConversion – Converts pesos, metric, and more – free ( Android )
• Life360 – Location sharing app so family/friends know you’re safe – free/paid ( Android , iPhone )
• NordVPN – Private internet connection, access location-dependent sites – paid check current promotions

70) Plan for Monday Closures in Mexico

When planning activities and things to do in Mexico, beware of Mondays. Most museums are closed on Mondays throughout Mexico. Be sure to use the other six days of the week to delve into Mexico’s art, culture, and history.

Additionally, some archeological sites and other attractions use Monday as a day off. A few restaurants may also close on Mondays. Research open time in advance so that you can plan accordingly.

71) Leave Extra Room in Your Luggage

From local glassware to tequila to pottery to sombreros to piñatas, there are lots of fun Mexican souvenirs you may want to buy and bring back with you.

Be sure to leave some room in your luggage to take back mementos from your trip to Mexico!

72) Plan Around Holidays in Mexico

There are several important holidays in Mexico to be aware of. If your trip to Mexico coincides with a holiday, understand that some businesses may be closed, and services could be limited.

You may also want to do some research on local festivities happening in the Mexico destination you’re visiting. Día de Indepencia (Independence Day) and Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) can be particularly festive throughout Mexico!

Here are Mexico’s official national holidays occurring each year:

• Jan 1: New Year’s Day , national holiday celebrating the new year
• Feb, first Monday: Constitution Day , national holiday commemorating the drafting of the constitution
• March, Monday closest to 21 st , national holiday celebrating President Benito Juárez
• March-April: Easter Week, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are public holidays.
• May 1: Labor Day , national holiday for a day off work
• Sept 16: Independence Day is a national holiday, with fiestas beginning the night before
• Nov 2: Día de Muertos is the national holiday, with more festivities in the days preceding
• Nov, third Monday: Revolution Day celebrates Mexico’s 1910 revolution
• Dec 25: Christmas is observed

Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not a national holiday in Mexico . Rather, May 5 th is celebrated locally in Puebla to commemorate the Mexican army’s victory over the French during the Battle of Puebla.

And for more about Día de Muertos , be sure to check out our guide for the 10 Best Things to Do for Day of the Dead in Mexico City .

73) Best Time of Year to Visit Mexico

The best time to visit Mexico is greatly dependent on the location you’re visiting and what you want to get out of a visit.

Winter & Spring : High season in Mexico’s coastal areas spans from December to April. This is also Mexico’s dry season. Rain is infrequent and temperatures are pleasantly mild. Yet this beautiful weather brings an influx of visitors and higher prices. Snowbirds linger to escape the harsh winters of their home climates. Spring break can be a particularly popular time as families and college students descend into Mexico.

Summer : May is the hottest time of year for many locations in Mexico. To avoid the intense heat at this time, consider visiting Mexico’s highlands. Although it can still get quite warm in the afternoons, nights and mornings remain cool. Thankfully the rains in June-November offer some reprieve to hot temperatures in the lowlands even if the humidity increases. Summer is the rainy season for much of Mexico. Just know that the “rainy season” doesn’t mean it’s raining all day every day throughout Mexico. Plenty of sun comes through too during this time. Meanwhile, tourist crowds and prices can vary over the summer, depending on the location.

Fall can be a nice time to visit Mexico. It’s low season throughout most of Mexico (exception: during Día de Muertos ). Fall is also a good time to avoid tourist crowds as temperatures begin to transition milder again. But do be aware that early fall lies within the peak of hurricane season. Personally, we tout late Fall (November and into early December) as an ideal time to visit Mexico . Everything is lush and green. Chances of rain decrease significantly and temperatures cool. Tourist crowds and prices are both low in many parts of Mexico during this time.

To get an idea of the typical weather of the Mexico destinations you’re considering, search weatherspark to see average temperatures, precipitation, and more.

74) What to Pack for Mexico

You likely already know the travel essentials you require such as your personal preferences for clothes , toiletries , and a camera . Here are some items specifically for Mexico to consider adding to your luggage:

• Jackets and warm clothing are needed if venturing to Mexico’s highlands, including Mexico City. Some Mexico newbies are surprised to learn it dips down into the 50s F / ~13°C each night, even during the summer.

• Biodegradable sunscreen is very important to bring if you plan to swim around coral reefs or Yucatan’s cenotes. Regular sunscreen can cause damage, kill fish, and add chemicals to the freshwater. Pack biodegradable sunscreen, which can be difficult to find in Mexico. This Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen SPF 45  is a great choice  on Amazon , has consistently great reviews, and is inexpensive.

• Don’t forget a  wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses . Keep that sun off your face and out of your eyes.
• Reusable shopping bags – Long-term travelers to Mexico should consider packing some reusable shopping bags since many supermarkets in Mexico no longer use plastic bags.
• Face masks – Even though most government mask mandates in Mexico have been lifted for public places, some businesses may still require masks, many Mexicans still use them, and mandates could come back if situations change. So it may be wise to pack a few premium face masks to have on hand.
• Travel surge protector + power strip : Outlets in Mexico can sometimes be few and inconveniently placed. If you’re traveling with multiple phones, cameras, and other devices to charge, then this Belkin 3-Outlet SurgePlus Charger can be very useful in Mexico since it turns one outlet into three, plus includes two additional USB ports. This allows five items to charge from the same outlet and also protects your electronics from power surges.
• A  Travel Guide Book : For more background information about Mexico and location-specific travel advice, you may want to grab a guidebook. We like the Lonely Planet Mexico Travel Guide .

For a more complete packing list, be sure to check out our Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist for more packing tips and 100+ recommended items to take with you to Mexico.

75) Why You Should Read up on Mexico’s History Before Your Visit

Mexico has such a complex history. Those who are even moderately interested in history and/or anyone spending any significant amount of time traveling across various locations should absolutely consider learning more about Mexico’s fascinating history. It will greatly enhance a visit, providing a better understanding of Mexico’s culture.

It can be very worthwhile to spend just a few hours learning more details about Mexico’s history before arriving in the country. This should also include a refresher on the history of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilizations, such as the Aztecs, Olmecs, and Mayans. Doing so will lend to a far better appreciation of the intricacies and wonders of Mexico’s many ancient sites.

History of Mexico is a fantastic primer on Mexico’s history, spanning from its ancient empires to the birth of modern-day Mexico, to the Mexican Revolution and so much more. It’s all packed into an easily digestible 85 pages. ( Order the paperback on Amazon or listen to the audiobook for free with a 30-day trial of Audible .)

Even More Mexico Travel Tips?

Hopefully, these Mexico travel tips have helped plan a getaway. We realize there’s a lot packed into this lengthy post. So if you skipped around, consider bookmarking this page and coming back to reference it again.

Also, for suggestions of where to travel and things to do, be sure to check out our entire Mexico archive.

Also, do you have your own favorite Mexican travel tip? Feel free to post it in the comments section below! Or if you have any questions about traveling to Mexico that weren’t answered, please ask! We’d love to help you if we can.

Lastly, enjoy Mexico. ¡Buen viaje amigos!

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December 29, 2022 at 4:31 PM

I salute your guide… so informative and friendly written at the same time (i laughed many times with your expressions!). Thank you very much for covering all those topics, BUT… what about us smokers? Is it allowed to smoke out publicly? How about on the beach, with a cold frape sorry… a beer (the Greek woke up in me) in hand? Given there is an ashtray of course, so i don’t have to sadly “burry” each finished smoke in the sand 🙂

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50+ Important Travel Tips for Mexico

Mexico is one of our absolute favorite countries to travel in–and after spending months exploring Mexico over the course of several trips, we’ve accumulated a long list of useful travel tips for Mexico to pass on.

Whether you’re headed out for a weekend getaway in Mexico City, to Oaxaca to eat your way through the region, or to the Yucatan to enjoy the plethora of phenomenal beaches and cenotes, these Mexico travel tips will help you enjoy your trip even more!

Table of Contents

Mexico Travel Tips for Where to Go

Foodie travel tips for mexico, tips for getting around mexico, paying for things in mexico, logistical and safety tips for traveling to mexico, mexico travel tips for packing your bags.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

If possible, try to visit more than one region in Mexico. 

While it can be tempting to head directly to Mexico’s legendary beaches and not tear yourself away, the country has so much more to offer than that.

One of our absolute top travel tips for Mexico is to explore more than one region of the country if you can.

If you have a couple of weeks and would like to see a wide variety of places in Mexico, this itinerary is a fantastic place to start.

Want to stick to the Yucatan but still get off the well-trodden, all-inclusive-laden path a bit?

We swear by this road trip itinerary as well.

Chichen Itza is not the best place to see Mayan ruins.

Are the ruins at Chichen Itza very cool?

Are there equally interesting (or even more interesting) ruins scattered across Mexico that have a fraction of the crowds and souvenir hawkers?

Absolutely.

If you’re near Chichen Itza but want to visit a less-crowded spot instead of (or in addition to) the 7th New Wonder of the World, one of our tips for traveling to Mexico is to consider heading to Ek Balam or Coba.

While Mexico’s beaches are amazing, don’t discount other natural highlights.

Sure, relaxing on the beach in Cancun, scuba diving in Cozumel , and strolling along the water at sunset in Puerto Vallarta are absolutely worth your time–but there’s plenty to do away from the beach, too!

Mexico has an incredibly varied landscape and climate, translating to an enormous number of beautiful places to experience nature in the country.

… like waterfalls, for example…

We personally love the ones in Chiapas, but there are plenty of amazing waterfalls in Mexico to seek out!

… and cenotes.

The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its thousands of cenotes–freshwater sinkholes, essentially–and they are just as amazing to admire and swim in as their reputation suggests.

Many of Mexico’s cities are absolutely worth visiting. 

Mexico has some truly fantastic cities, including sprawling Mexico City , as well as colorful and interesting colonial cities like Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Puebla , Merida, and San Miguel de Allende (a favorite among ex-pats looking for amazing places to live in Mexico ).

If you’re looking for beautiful towns and cities in Mexico that fit into your itinerary, look for nearby “Pueblos Mágicos”–aka “Magic Towns”–which are towns designated by Mexico as particularly beautiful and/or culturally significant.

Be sure to check out the Zocalo in each town you visit.

The Zocalo, or main square, of each town in Mexico is the heartbeat of the city, and often home to the cathedral and other impressive architecture, as well as often a small park of sorts and plenty of chances to observe a sliver of daily life.

Street food hawkers, shoe shiners, and balloon salesmen entertaining children are just a few of the people you’ll likely stumble across in a Mexican Zocalo.

Food in Mexico is extremely regional.

From what kind of tortillas are served to what a typical breakfast looks like to exactly how delicious the mole is (hint: it’s best in Oaxaca), Mexican food varies dramatically depending on where you go in the country.

…so, do some foodie research before your trip to Mexico.

While tourist-friendly options will be on the menus everywhere, you’ll enjoy Mexico’s absolutely sublime food culture much more if you know what’s best in the region you’re visiting.

Always order the guacamole.

You’ll never have more delicious–or affordable–guacamole than what you’ll find in Mexico.

If a restaurant is crowded and locals are eating there, it’s a good bet it’s delicious.

This is a good rule around the world, but in a country with a cuisine as absolutely delicious as Mexico’s, it bears repeating: even one mediocre meal is a travesty when surrounded by so much bounty.

… the same goes for street food stalls.

Mexico’s street food scene is legendary, from tacos al pastor to elote (grilled corn on the cob, slathered in mayo and spices) and beyond, and one of our favorite Mexico travel tips is to make sure you absolutely try some during your trip to Mexico!

By opting for a busy stall where the food is turning over fast, you’re bound to find food that is both delicious and fresh.

Global fast food brands abound in Mexico.

We’re not necessarily recommending you eat there, but if, say, you have a picky eater amongst your group or a long trip ahead, you’ll find plenty of familiar brands in Mexico, from McDonalds to Subway to Krispy Kreme.

In most of the country, flour tortillas don’t exist.

That’s not to say they don’t exist in Mexico at all–but they’re primarily used in the far north of the country, which generally speaking, isn’t as popular with tourists.

Overall, corn tortillas are far more popular in Mexico and generally what you’ll receive if you ask for tortillas.

Strongly consider taking a food tour in Mexico.

Mexico’s food culture is absolutely phenomenal, and it deserves to be explored with a guide!

We love taking food tours all over the world, and Mexico offers some incredible opportunities, like this tour in Mexico City .

Be careful buying sliced fruit from roadside stands.

While sliced fruit, often served with chili powder on top (seriously) is a common and tasty roadside snack in Mexico, it can be a risky one.

Depending on how long the fruit has been out, it can cause some highly unpleasant stomach problems.

If you don’t have a gut of steel, consider sticking to buying only naturally wrapped fruit (bananas, oranges) or fruit that you watch being freshly sliced in front of you.

Jeremy has an iron stomach and has happily eaten fruit from roadside stalls many times, but me, not so much.

The water is not safe to drink in Mexico.

Of all these travel tips for Mexico, this is probably among the best known (when a travel tip has literally been included in a country song , you know it’s broadly known), but it’s also extremely important.

A filtered water bottle like this , or a reusable water bottle paired with a Steripen , are great options for sterilizing water on the go in Mexico.

Mexico’s ADO bus system is incredible. Take advantage of it.

Mexico’s ADO bus system is a fantastic, affordable, and incredibly comfortable way to get between close and moderately-distanced destinations in Mexico–truly more comfortable than flying!

With huge, comfortable seats, great service, and plenty of air-conditioning (sometimes too much, quite honestly), they’re definitely worth trying out as you travel through Mexico.

Just make sure to bring a jacket with you!

After riding on one ADO bus you’ll likely understand why this makes our list of the best Mexico travel tips!

When they turn the air-conditioning on in Mexico, they tend to really go for it.

… and maybe some noise-canceling headphones.

The other downside of traveling Mexico by ADO bus?

Movies will virtually always be playing (in Spanish, of course) during the ride, often incredibly loudly.

Mexico often has surprisingly inexpensive domestic flights.

Mexico has flights from all the major international carriers, of course, but they also have plenty of budget flights available that are offered by domestic airlines like Volaris, Azteca, and VivaAerobus (though that last one has a bad reputation for nickel-and-diming customers).

… and then, of course, there are collectivos.

Collectivos are generally 15-passenger vans and make up an informal public transportation system in Mexico that is primarily used by the locals, though tourists are welcome to hop in.

Payment is generally small–a handful of pesos–and paid in cash, and the collectivos leave only when they are full, and therefore don’t have a set schedule.

When visitors use them, it’s primarily for short distances, for example, traveling between two towns that are fairly close together or to a set of ruins or cenote set just outside of a city.

Driving in Mexico can be quite simple–depending on where you go.

Would we recommend driving through the entirety of Mexico, from the United States to Guatemala, for most travelers? No, definitely not.

Do we also think that the Yucatan peninsula is one of the best road trip destinations in the world? Absolutely.

Essentially, if you’re considering a Mexico road trip, our best advice is to research your exact route in advance.

For example, renting a car in Cozumel or Cancun is different than renting one in Mexico City!

… but definitely get extra rental car insurance.

We recommend this for most travel destinations, and definitely for Mexico!

And ideally, know how to drive a manual.

While automatic transmissions aren’t as rare in Mexico as they are in Europe, you’ll still get your hands on a rental car more easily–and less expensively–if you know how to drive a manual.

Mexico is extremely cash-based.

While credit and debit cards from major carriers are accepted for many large purchases, including at restaurants and in souvenir shops, cash is virtually always the preferred method of payment, and the only option for many tourist destinations–including many archaeological sites and cenotes.

ATMs are plentiful in most cities.

We tend to withdraw money every few days while we are traveling in Mexico.

Never use USD or Euros if you can avoid it.

In tourist destinations like major attractions in Tulum or Cancun, plenty of tour companies will accept USD and/or Euros–but the exchange rate will undoubtedly be horrendous.

Save yourself money and hassle, and just plan to pay for everything in Mexican pesos.

Don’t negotiate for food.

It’s both rude and impossible.

In souvenir markets, however, you absolutely can haggle.

In fact, it’s absolutely expected: we recommend starting negotiations at about 50% of the listed price and going from there.

… and taxi rates are definitely negotiable.

One of the most important Mexico tips for traveling independently?

Be prepared to haggle at the taxi stand!

Safety in Mexico varies wildly based on where you go.

While we have always felt extremely safe in Mexico, there’s no denying that the country does struggle with a reputation for safety–especially in the US media.

While the cartel violence that often dominates headlines is certainly real, those struggles very, very rarely touch tourists, and in fact, it is quite normal for European and Canadian travelers to backpack through the country!

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico and are concerned about safety, one of our best travel tips for Mexico is to zero in on the government safety warnings for the particular state or region you’re visiting, rather than the country overall.

You’ll find that the most dangerous parts of the country are generally places that tourists rarely visit anyway.

But even on the country level, the official US travel.state.gov website ranks Mexico as a Level 2 risk for travel, a designation it shares with France and Spain.

Getting your laundry done in Mexico is very simple.

There are a plethora of laundry services throughout Mexico, and they’re generally very easy to find with a little Googling or asking around! 

They’re also very affordable, usually the equivalent of a few USD for a load of laundry.

… but usually requires a little advance notice.

Typically, you can expect a 1-3 day turnaround time.

Restrooms are generally marked as “M” or “D” for women and “H” or “C” for men.

This stands for Mujeres/Damas (Women/Ladies) and Hombres/Caballeros (Men/Gentlemen), but many an English-speaking man has mistakenly wandered through a door marked “M” when traveling in Mexico!

… and don’t flush the toilet paper.

Instead, protect the fragile plumbing systems by throwing it into the trashcan next to the toilet.

Paying to use the toilets is common.

It’s generally not more than a handful of pesos, but it is expected.

Typically, you’ll pay the bathroom attendant stationed at the door, and in many cases, toilet paper will also be supplied by the attendant after you’ve paid rather than being provided in the restroom itself.

The more Spanish you speak, the easier life gets.

Is it required to speak Spanish in order to enjoy a trip to Mexico? Absolutely not.

Will everything about your trip, from learning about the culture to speaking with locals to haggling in markets, be easier and more rewarding if you speak some Spanish? Absolutely.

If you don’t speak any Spanish, we recommend learning at least some basic phrases before you go.

Definitely buy travel insurance for your trip to Mexico.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and traveling to Mexico is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Mexico.

Get beyond the resorts–even if you’re staying in one.

There is so, so much more to Mexico than its legendary beach resorts–and while a relaxing vacation spent lying on the beach is sometimes just what the doctor ordered, even if you’re staying in a resort, try to head somewhere else at least once for a day trip.

You’ll be glad you did.

On our very first trip to Mexico, we stayed on a beautiful resort on the beach in Cozumel , but our most cherished memories from that trip are from adventures outside the resort!

Don’t lose your Mexico Exit Form.

This is one of the most important travel tips for Mexico included here.

The immigration paperwork you fill out when arriving in Mexico has two parts: an entrance form, which will be taken as you’re stamped into the country, and an exit form, which you’ll keep until you leave.

Don’t lose this form!

Personally, we tend to keep ours tucked into the back of our passports during our time in Mexico.

Keep the season in mind when booking your Mexico vacation.

Most importantly when looking for tips on traveling in Mexico by season, of course, is keeping hurricane season in mind.

The season runs from June to November every year, but is generally most severe August through October.

Prices, especially in Mexico’s beach towns, are generally highest from mid-December through mid-April, with additional spikes around Christmas, New Years, Spring Break, and Easter.

Grab a Mexican SIM card when you arrive.

Having access to the internet while traveling in Mexico will make your trip much, much easier–especially on a road trip (though keep in mind you’ll likely lose signal on some rural roads).

Data is incredibly affordable in Mexico, and we recommend picking up a SIM card before you even leave the airport after landing in the country.

Make sure your sunscreen is allowed.

Reef-safe sunscreen is increasingly expected in much of the country in order to keep the fragile coral reefs and marine life safe.

Some tour companies even require its use now!

Check the weather before you pack.

While it’s easy to imagine that Mexico is hot and sunny all the time, that’s certainly not the case everywhere in the country!

Mexico City, for example, has a very temperate climate.

Make sure to bring a church-appropriate outfit. 

If you’d like to explore the interiors of Mexico’s churches during your trip–and you definitely should, they are amazing–be sure to bring at least one outfit that covers your knees and shoulders.

Consider bringing a waterproof phone case.

Want to snap photos of videos on your phone while in the water or on a boat?

Bring a waterproof phone case along to do so!

… and if you’re driving, a portable phone mount.

This is one of the most important tips for traveling to Mexico if you’re driving, and especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip.

Pack a cell phone mount to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

If you get motion sick, SeaBands and Non-Drowsy Dramamine are great to have on hand.

… and for boat tours and beaches, dry bags are great.

Want to safely bring your camera to one of the beautiful beaches in Mexico with you, or perhaps even jump in the water and swim ashore from a boat with it?

A dry bag will make that possible! 

We love ours and have used it for years, and consider it one of the best Mexico tips for planning a packing list!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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26 Practical Travel Tips for Mexico You Are Guaranteed To Use

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: January 22, 2020  - Last updated: October 9, 2023

Share with your friends!

After almost 10 different trips in the last few years, I’ve come up with a list of my best Mexico travel tips that most people wouldn’t really think about.

You will find everything from safety, to carrying cash, to bathrooms and everything you need when preparing for a trip to Mexico.

Whether you’re traveling to Mexico for the first time, staying at an all inclusive resort, or going off the beaten path, you will likely encounter at least a few scenarios where these tips will come in handy.

I’ve done all of the above, and there are definitely some things you need to know about traveling to Mexico, so let’s dive in.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products and services that I know, love and trust.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Mexico

The most frequent question I get asked both before I leave and after I return, is: is it safe to travel to Mexico? 

Yes, it’s safe to travel to Mexico, but you should still be smart about it.

First, if you’re staying at an all inclusive resort, there will be absolutely no reason to feel unsafe. Even when you head out on an excursion or take a taxi into the nearest town, you will be fine.

A good rule of thumb to follow is if you wouldn’t do something at home that could get you in trouble, don’t do it in Mexico, either. 

Our last couple of trips to Mexico were off the beaten path and we stayed in some lesser known places. We felt completely safe.

If you’re staying at a smaller boutique hotel or renting an Airbnb, you will notice that there are usually two points of locking mechanisms at your hotel.

This is in the form of a large and heavy main door or gate to the hotel and then each room having a lock. This is for everyone’s safety and very common. 

As far as what to expect in Mexico, you might hear a lot about drugs, cartels and gangs, but the reality is, this country needs tourism and needs tourists to feel safe.

As long as you’re not engaging in any dangerous or questionable activity, you will be fine.

If you’re still a little anxious about traveling in Mexico, you can always invest in personal items to stay safe and put your mind at ease, like an anti-theft purse.

In fact, most places that tourists frequent in Mexico are safer than many cities in the USA and Canada. 

Read Next: Off the Beaten Path in Mexico: a Unique Travel Itinerary for Visiting Valladolid and Ek Balam

Travel Planning Tips – Preparing for a Trip to Mexico

What you need to go to mexico.

Any visitor entering Mexico needs a valid passport, and it cannot expire within 6 months of your arrival date in Mexico.

You do not need to apply for a visa before you arrive, you are presented with one (for a leisure stay up to 180 days) on arrival at immigration.

When you arrive in Mexico, immigration will provide you with a visa slip that you keep with your passport. Do not lose this! You will need to give it back upon your departure from the country.

And many hotels will want to take a photocopy of your passport when you check-in, for security reasons, so you want to leave your slip close by your passport but not in it.

One of my top travel tips for Mexico is to get yourself a high quality passport holder with a zipper and made of a material that will protect against humidity so that you don’t damage your passport or the visitor slip. 

I use this zippered passport holder that doubles as a wallet, and has a handy little wrist strap so you can be hands free when you’re going through the airport and need to dig things out of your bag.

And it’s the perfect size to hold immigration cards that you fill out on the plane before arrival. 

Or this travel wallet is great for keeping all the family passports together in one place. 

After a couple trips to Mexico and its humidity, some of the pages in my passport started curling, which I didn’t really notice.

That is, until I went to renew it at the passport office and they considered it borderline damaged! Thankfully I was able to renew it, and now I only keep my passport tucked in its pouch away from the humidity!

Travel Insurance

Speaking of safety, it’s a good idea to look into and think about getting travel insurance for Mexico.

I use a company called World Nomads which I love because they offer different plans and most cover medical and health events, theft, airline problems, etc.

It’s very reasonably priced and you can get an instant quote for free and there’s no obligation to buy.

What’s more, is that you can even purchase it when you’re already on your trip in case you’re having second thoughts after you have arrived.

Medicine and Vaccination Information

I am not a medical doctor, nor should you take any medical advice from me, but I will share my experiences as far as medicines and vaccinations go when planning a trip to Mexico.

First, in my opinion, I don’t think you need to take any medicine before traveling to Mexico.

I would, however, suggest starting some pro-biotics about a week before you leave, to give your gut health a little added boost and to give a head start to fighting off anything that might be potentially uncomfortable. 

You don’t need any particular vaccinations for Mexico other than your routine vaccinations you would be up to date on. Many travelers choose to take Dukoral before they leave for Mexico, but I have not.

Essential Mexico Checklist: 17 Things You Should Pack for an All Inclusive Vacation

Hotel Tips for Mexico

Before leaving on vacation, most of us book our hotel accommodations online in advance.

My favorite platform that I use is Booking.com ; one of the reasons I like it is because many of the hotels offer free cancellation up until a few days before check-in.

But what I’ve learned after traveling throughout Mexico is that it’s best to pay for your hotel online in advance (that is, as long as you’re not planning to cancel your reservation), instead of paying the hotel once you arrive. 

Here is my reason behind that. Our hotel costs are usually one of the biggest expenses, and I don’t like carrying around that much cash at once.

Oh, no problem, I’ll just pull out my credit card right? Wrong.

While it’s gotten better in recent years, many hotels in Mexico still prefer you to pay cash. I have run into situations at a hotel upon check-in where the credit card machine ‘conveniently’ isn’t working.

Alternatively, if they are willing to let you pay by credit card, I’ve had many places tack on an extra 5% of the price to cover the fees they get charged. 

Now, I always pay for my hotel stays online so that it’s taken care of, I don’t get overcharged or have to run to an ATM and take out hundreds of dollars in pesos.

Booking and paying for your hotel online in advance is just one less thing you will have to worry about on your trip to Mexico. 

You Might Also Like: A Complete Travel Guide to Sayulita, Mexico

Cash, Currency and Payment Travel Tips for Mexico

Should you use pesos or dollars when in mexico.

Many sectors in Mexico run on the informal economy, and especially the tourism and hospitality industry. Cash is king here.

The most important thing you need to know about traveling to Mexico is to pay in the local currency which is Mexican Pesos (MXN). Yes, even if you’re staying at an all inclusive resort, you should tip in Pesos.

When staff receive American dollars, they need to go to the bank to exchange their tips into Pesos (it’s just more of a hassle for them). 

Watch my video explaining all these tips about traveling in Mexico and other Mexico travel advice!

How Much to Tip in Mexico

Tipping in Mexico is pretty straightforward, 10 to 15 percent of your bill is standard. At a restaurant we calculate the tip percentage we would like to pay and then round it up to the nearest bill to make it quick and easy.

And if you’re at an all inclusive resort, it’s typical to tip the bartenders or pool servers about 10 pesos per drink.

Or, hand them a 100 peso bill and that will keep the drinks flowing for a while! Of course, you are always welcome to tip more than that.

Small Change

When paying with cash in Mexico, you will notice that no one ever seems to have change, especially for big bills.

You will almost always be asked if you have exact change if you’re paying in a larger bill.

When you go to the ATM, it will dispense cash in large bills (normally 200s or 500s), so this is a pain!

So, another useful Mexico travel tip is that when you have the chance, always pay with the highest bills possible, so that you can get change back in smaller bills to make it easier to pay for tips or low cost items. 

For example, at restaurants, even if I have enough to pay the check in small bills, I always try to pay with a big bill, get the change back and then tip (if I’m running low on small bills).

Or, if you have to stop at a pharmacy to buy sunscreen, bandaids or medication, they usually have change, so pay with big bills.

OXXO (the convenience stores located on every corner) are also a good place to break big bills.

When and Where to Get Pesos

The best place to get pesos for your Mexico trip is at a bank ATM (not a private one in front of a store). As long as it’s a bank ATM, it should be safe and have the lowest fees.

The airports will always be the most expensive. I’ve never had a problem taking out money from an ATM in Mexico.

Want More Mexico Reading? Check out: Bucerías – a Travel Guide to Visiting This Charming Town Near Puerto Vallarta

How Many Pesos Will you Need for Your Mexico Trip?

This answer obviously depends where you are staying and how much of a budget you’re on. If you’re staying at an all inclusive resort, you will only need about 100 pesos per day per person for tips (I’d say this is minimum). 

If you’re staying at a hotel in Puerto Vallarta, for example, and eating out for each meal and throwing in a couple happy hours, you might want to budget 500 pesos per person.

Of course, you can definitely do it cheaper than this, or spend as much as you want.

Tips for Using the Bathroom in Mexico

Keep your coins.

One of the first things that may surprise you about traveling to Mexico is that you usually have to pay for public washrooms.

Depending where you are, it’s only about 5 or 10 pesos, and there is usually an attendant at the entrance who will take your money and then give you toilet paper.

Some places like bus terminals have a coin and gate operated system. Either way, it’s important to know that this is common practice in Mexico. All the more important to keep your small change and coins!

So, always remember to take advantage of the washrooms at the restaurants when you’re a paying customer. 

Here’s a mexico travel tip just in case: if you’re out and about and need to use a washroom but don’t want to pay, the larger grocery stores like Chedraui or MegaSuper are free to use. 

Don’t Flush the Toilet Paper

Another thing you need to know about using the bathrooms in Mexico, is that in pretty much every place except all inclusive resorts, you are not supposed to flush toilet paper down the toilet.

It goes in the waste bin beside the toilet. Yes, even when you go number 2!

The sewage and plumbing systems in Mexico just can’t handle it. It’s weird at first, but you get used to it. 

Know Which Bathroom is the Right One

In Mexico, the bathroom door that starts with an ‘M’ is for the ladies! You will likely encounter an ‘M’ or ‘Mujeres’ which means women. ‘Hombres’ means men.

You might also see ‘Damas’ which means ladies and ‘Caballeros’ means gentlemen.

No one told me to expect this in Mexico years ago on my first trip, so this is an important thing to know before you go! 

Expect a Little Discomfort

Most tourists (especially if it’s your first time traveling to Mexico) experience a bout of what we call ‘Montezuma’s Revenge’. It’s weird right, who is Montezuma and why does he want revenge?

Apparently it’s an ode to the rulers of countries who were colonized by larger more powerful empires (the Spanish) and this was their little piece of retribution.

Anyways, yes, we’re talking about diarrhea here. This usually occurs after your first day or two of getting used to the different food bacteria that’s found in Mexico.

Your gut is used to the food bacteria in North America but not in Mexico. This comes in the form of Diarrhea, and yes it sucks, but usually passes within a day.

If it really bothers you, or you’re worried about it, you can visit any pharmacy and get an over the counter pill to treat this called Treda. I am not a doctor, so do not take this as medical advice. However, I have used this and it works. 

Transportation and Getting Around in Mexico

Coach busses for long distances.

Getting around both to and from and within cities in Mexico is safe, efficient and low cost. If you’re traveling between cities, the ADO bus system is great.

There are tons of buses scheduled at all times, they’re comfortable and relatively low cost. For example, we took a 4 hour bus ride from Mérida to Cancun and it was about 35 dollars per person. 

Local Busses 

Within cities and towns, you can take local buses. You pay the driver on board (usually between 10-20 pesos per trip) and you’re good to go.

I’ve used the local bus system to travel within and around the Puerto Vallarta area and have never had any problems.

Each bus has the destination and route written in large white letters (or a sign) on the windshield. So it’s very easy to tell which bus you should be getting on when you see them pull up.

Try the Collectivos for Regional Travel

And, if you’re located just outside of the city, you can take a ‘collectivo’. This is a shared transportation service, many locals use them on their commutes.

They are basically 15 passenger vans and the drivers will pick people up along the way until it’s full. We have done this from all inclusive resorts too!

For instance, when staying at the Bahia Principe Resort in the Mayan Riviera, we just walked to the highway and took a collectivo into Play del Carmen. You pay the driver when you get off (about 20-30 pesos depending how far you’re going).

Taxis – Agree to Your Fare Before Your Ride Starts

There are always taxis available to get you around, and there are Ubers in many cities now, too. If you do hire a taxi, agree to the price of the fare before you get in and start your trip.

Occasionally the taxis will be metered (depending on what city you’re in).

But if they are not metered, ask the taxi driver how much it will be to get to your destination. Unless you know exactly what the price should be, you can haggle a bit and ask for a cheaper price.

They will likely counter with another price, and then when you come to an agreement you can go on your way. 

In larger cities, like Puerto Vallarta, many of the fares are set and posted in the taxis and hotels. Expect to pay 50-100 pesos for trips within PV.

Read Next: Huatulco – One of Mexico’s Hidden Gems

WiFi Availability

Generally speaking, there is decent enough WiFi available wherever you will be traveling within Mexico.

Larger cities now how free public WiFi in some of the central squares, and if you’re staying at an all inclusive resort or a new luxury hotel, you shouldn’t have a problem with free and fast internet.

But, if you need to ensure that you always have access to WiFi, it can definitely be spotty and unreliable at times, especially if you’re going a little more off the beaten path.

One great solution is to get yourself a portable WiFi hotspot that works anywhere.

I bring my Skyoam everywhere , because you can choose your own plan, only pay for what you use and can connect several devices. This always comes in handy when I land at the airport and need to find transportation, most airport WiFi isn’t always reliable in Mexico.

Food and Drink Tips

First, one of the most important tips for traveling to Mexico is to not drink the tap water. To avoid getting sick, stick to bottled water only.

Some people even use bottled water to brush their teeth. Sometimes I do, sometimes I just swish with tap water, but then I will swish right away with bottled water.

Either way, it’s nothing to be scared of, but just make sure you’re always drinking bottled water.

Restaurants will serve you bottled water and the ice at bars and restaurants is always made from bottled water too. Hot drinks like coffee and tea are fine to drink. 

How Much Will a Beer Cost You?

When you’re at a restaurant, bar or on the beach, if you can find beer for 30 pesos or less, that’s a good price! These days you might be paying closer to 40 or 50 pesos for one beer, so when you find a place with 30 peso beers, grab a seat! 

If you’re on the go or going to be renting your own condo, head to an OXXO (convenience stores on every corner) for cheap beer and bottled water. 

Try Some New Food

Be adventurous! Street taco stands are everywhere, they are totally fine to eat at, have fun and do as the locals do.

There’s always plenty of other street food at the outdoor markets or in the evenings, and these are also safe to eat from.

If you are slightly worried, my best tip would be to choose one that’s busy/has a lineup, that way you know the food is fresh! 

In addition to tacos, tortillas are served with almost every meal in Mexico! Usually corn tortillas are the most popular choice and will be the default tortilla that is served.

If you prefer flour tortillas, ask for tortilla de harina.

Eating Fruit in Mexico

One of my favorite things about travelling to Mexico is the abundance of fresh fruit. You will be fine eating fruit, especially thick skinned fruits like Pineapple and Mango.

One of my best tips for Mexico though, is do not mix eating papaya with orange.

When eaten together in the same meal it’s a natural laxative. This is especially important if you’re staying at an all inclusive resort, the breakfast buffets always have an appetizing spread of fresh fruit, so choose wisely! 

Related Reading: Travel Planning Guide to the Best Puerto Vallarta Beaches

Don’t Rush

Things are much more laid back in Mexico. We North Americans are used to things being scheduled and running on time; this is not always the case in Mexico.

Whether you’re waiting for the check at a restaurant or standing by for that taxi you ordered, one of my biggest travel tips for Mexico is to learn to be on Mexico time! It’s hot, no one else is in a rush and you’re on vacation, so take the time to enjoy and not stress out. 

Beach Vendors and Shopkeepers

If you’re in the Malecon area of Puerto Vallarta, or roaming around Playa del Carmen, you can expect to be bombarded by shop owners who can be a little pushy when they try to get you into their shops to buy souvenirs.

This is the same on the beaches – many beach vendors will walk the beach with a collection of sunglasses or ponchos and try to sell you anything they can. If you’re not interested, just smile and say ‘no gracias.’ 

Bartering and Haggling

If you do want to buy souvenirs or do some shopping at the local markets, I highly recommend it. We’ve come home with things like a great blanket, home decor and kitchenware.

Shopping at the markets for little souvenirs is always fun. And part of the experience is bartering! If you see something you like, always ask how much it is.

The shopkeeper will tell you you a price. Start by offering anywhere from 30-50% lower than what they quoted you. They will usually pretend that it’s way too low, and this is where the fun starts! Have some fun going back and forth.

You can always walk away if you don’t agree on the price. And remember, they won’t sell you an item if they won’t make money on it. Also, there are many tourists who are uncomfortable bartering, so they end up paying full price.

Therefore, you don’t have to feel too bad about getting something for a lower price than you were originally quoted.

Have some fun and practice, it gets easier the more you do it! We have even had success getting to know great restaurants or hidden gem bars in the area that serve cheap drinks from having a good (and respectful) time bartering at the shops. 

And speaking of which, Mexicans love to get together, stay up late and have parties or informal gatherings.

I swear, everytime I go to Mexico, there’s always some music somewhere in the distance on any given night! And even more so during the holidays.

If you typically head to bed early, pack some earplugs just in case. 

Mexicans are so friendly, they love socializing, having fun and making jokes, so join in on their happy go lucky spirits and you will have a great time in Mexico!

Try Somewhere Off the Resorts!

If you really want to experience Mexico, I highly recommend trying a vacation where you don’t stay at an all-inclusive resort.

When you head inland, there are so many under the radar destinations in Mexico worth your vacation time.

Stay at a boutique hotel in the romantic zone (old town area) of Puerto Vallarta for quaint coffee shops and incredible views, or head to the gorgeous colonial city of Mérida for stunning architecture.

You will discover incredible restaurants, history and hidden gems by going a little off the beaten path.

Discover More Hidden Gems: 12 Things to Do in Holbox for the Ultimate Mexican Island Vacation

One Last Tip…

If you still love the physical feeling of a guidebook, I love using the Lonely Planet books as my travel bibles.

While I always do a lot of research before any trip, I love bringing these books on the plane with me to read up while I’m on my way to sun, sand and the sea!

They’re also great to have on hand when you’re sipping your morning coffee overlooking the ocean making your plan for the day. Plus, this Mexico guidebook is full of maps and interesting information about the history of the places you’ll visit.

I hope that you found this post to be a useful checklist for traveling to Mexico. Just remember that while Mexico is safe to visit, it’s still a much different country than the USA, Canada and western European countries. As long as you keep these travel tips in mind and know what to expect in Mexico, you will have an amazing time!

Liked this post? Share and save a pin to your travel boards!

Merrie Rodriguez

Sunday 26th of January 2020

Oh! I LOVE Lonely Planet travel books too!! They are so helpful when planning trips

Right! I love my phone for looking things up, but I just can't shake the feeling of having a physical travel guide in my hands, ya know!

Thank you so much for all the value, I went to Mexico but those tips changed a lot!

thanks! glad it was helpful - it's the small things that make a difference :)

Very informative! Absolutely useful and honest! Your knowledge and experience (about Mexico) comes through! Mexico is on my bucket list!

Thank you! No matter where you go on your first trip to Mexico, you'll love it! Hope you make it soon :)

Nicole | Mapless Adventures

Saturday 25th of January 2020

I truly love Mexico. It has such a vast amount of different environments and off the beaten track places. Thank you for sharing. Mexico is a beautiful country! Loved your photos!

Thanks for reading! I agree, there is so much to see and do in Mexico, something for everyone.

The 20 Best Mexico Travel Tips and Tricks to Know Before Visiting in 2024

• Updated on January 2, 2024
• Tips and Tricks

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Introduction, mexico – the land of vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty.

Mexico is not just a country but an experience filled with vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty spanning diverse landscapes. From savory street foods to fascinating ancient ruins and pristine beaches to opulent colonial cities, Mexico beckons each traveler with open arms.

It’s a destination that will leave you longing for more visits, but before that happens, equip yourself well with these 20 Best Mexico Travel Tips !

Planning Your Trip to Mexico

1. best time to visit mexico.

The best time to visit Mexico is highly dependent on your preferred destination and activities.

Typically, the high season, spanning from December to April, is excellent for visiting Mexico’s coastal areas as it is the dry season. Pleasantly mild temperatures, infrequent rains, and throngs of tourists characterize this period.

May, on the other hand, turns out to be the hottest month, with intense heat best escaped in the highlands.

The rains from June to November offer relief despite increased humidity.

Furthermore, late fall (November and early December) is considered ideal to visit Mexico . It offers mild temperatures, fewer tourists, lower prices, and lush green landscapes. But remember, early fall lies within the peak of hurricane season.

The cheapest period typically turns out to be the ‘shoulder season’ after the high season ends. Always plan considering the local climate, the size of the tourist crowd, and, of course, your specific interests.

2. Understanding the Entry Requirements

Navigating the entry requirements for Mexico is generally simple and straightforward yet crucial to your trip planning.

For citizens of the United States and many European countries, no visa is required to enter Mexico. However, residents of some other countries may be required to obtain an e-visa prior to arrival.

Upon arriving in Mexico, you’ll fill in immigration paperwork, which consists of two parts: an entrance form and an exit form. The former will be taken as your passport is stamped into the country. Ensure that you do not lose the exit form, you’ll need to present it when leaving.

Do remember to bring a pen on your flight as airlines usually don’t provide them, and you’d need one to fill out your forms. These are typically available in English, and you need to fill in some basic information. Important: Also have your accommodation details handy for the form.

To avoid unpleasant surprises, consult with your local Mexican embassy or check the Mexican government’s official website for the most current entry requirements based on your nationality before scheduling your trip.

3. Flights and Accommodations - Book in Advance

One of the key tips for keeping your Mexico trip within budget is booking your flights and accommodations in advance. Especially during high season (late November through April) and periods like Spring Break and Christmas-New Year weeks when many North American tourists throng Mexico, fares and accommodation prices skyrocket!

So, how can you avoid shelling out tons of money?

• Book Early: Airlines usually release their inventory about a year in advance. The earlier you start looking, the more likely you are to find great deals! Websites like Cheap Air are lifesavers as they do the work for you, finding incredible bargains on flights.
• Off-peak Travel: Don’t travel during the high season, which includes Holy Week, Christmas, winter in general, and August if you’re seeking budget-friendly options!
• Hotel Deals: Use websites like Booking.com for price comparison and vacation rentals.
• Look for Packages: P ackage deals combining flights and hotels can save you 10-20% more if you book them at the same time.

Being prepared and booking well in advance will ensure you score the best possible deals. This way, you can focus more on enjoying the trip rather than stressing about the costs.

Money Matters in Mexico

4. managing your money effectively.

Money management is fundamental when traveling. Given Mexico’s cash-based economy, it is recommended that you keep some small denominations of pesos: they are handy for tipping, food carts, and small businesses that don’t accept cards.

The scarcity of change is prevalent, so having smaller bills like 100 or 200 pesos often saves the day.

Here are some points to consider:

• Don’t exchange all your money at the airport. Rates aren’t favorable there! Exchange a little to cover initial expenses and get to your accommodation.
• Money exchange houses (called “Casas de Cambio”) often have preferable rates. Remember to carry your passport for identification purposes.
• Consider withdrawing from ATMs in small quantities regularly, but beware of fees.
• Always keep a mix of cash and credit cards handy for emergencies and larger purchases.
• Whenever possible, choose to be charged in the local currency (pesos) instead of your home currency to avoid unfavorable conversion rates (Dynamic Currency Conversion).
• Reconcile your spending at the end of each day to keep a tab on your expenses.

Remember, your trip’s success lies not just in adequate planning but also in how effectively you manage your finances during your travels.

Here is my Complete Mexico Packing List .

5. Dealing with Currency Exchange to Pesos

Dealing with currency exchange is an unavoidable part of traveling to a new country. The Mexican currency is the peso (MXN), and understanding its role is crucial to managing your money strategically.

• Exchange to Pesos, not Dollars: It is strongly advised that you exchange your money for Mexican Pesos and not to US Dollars. Even though Dollars might be accepted in some places, you’ll mostly get an unfavorable exchange rate (usually around 15 or 16 pesos to a dollar when $1 USD is actually worth about 18 MXN).
• Avoid Private Exchange Services: Private companies tend to have higher exchange fees and rates, often resulting in losing more money than anticipated.
• ATMs are your friend: Upon arrival in Mexico, use an ATM from a reputable bank to get your initial batch of Pesos. They usually offer a more economical way to exchange your money.
• Beware of ATM Fees: Though ATMs are widely available across Mexico, check for transaction charges before using one. If fees exceed US$5/6 per withdrawal, consider switching to a different bank’s ATM. BBVA Bancomer and Santander tend to have the lowest fees.

Remember, declining the ‘special’ conversion rate offered by ATMs will allow the bank to apply the official exchange rate, which will be more beneficial to you. This is a very important Mexico travel tip to keep in mind!

By abiding by these, you can ensure substantial savings and enjoy your trip without worrying about excessive, unnecessary costs.

6. Using Credit Cards and ATMs in Mexico

Navigating the use of credit cards and ATMs in Mexico is easier than you might think, especially in cities. All major grocery stores, convenience stores, and small businesses accept cards.

For larger purchases, using a card can minimize the amount of cash you need to carry.

Here’s what to remember:

• Secure ATMs: Direct yourself to ATMs associated with major banks, such as Santander, Scotia Bank, or Banco Azteca. Avoid using ATMs in random buildings to keep your financial information secure.
• Time Your Withdrawals: Only withdraw money during the bank’s open hours. If there are any issues, you can get help from bank staff immediately.
• Credit Card Acceptance: Major credit cards (Visa, Master Card) are widely accepted in Mexico at locations like hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and chain stores. Remember to inform your bank about your travel plans to prevent your card from being blocked due to suspicious foreign activity.
• Cash for Smaller Stores: Smaller stores and street vendors typically accept only cash, making it a good idea to always carry Mexican Pesos with you.
• ATM Location: Use ATMs inside or directly outside banks wherever possible. They are safer and less appealing to criminals.

Being digitally savvy with your money in Mexico can help keep your travels smooth and stress-free. It’s all about balancing your cash and card use effectively and keeping security in mind.

Remember, always remain vigilant when handling your money in a foreign country.

Transportation Tips for Mexico

7. embrace long distance bus travel.

Mexico boasts an extensive and efficient network of buses that crisscrosses the country, making it an excellent, cost-effective way to explore the nation’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

Long-distance bus travel in Mexico is a surprisingly comfortable and scenic option for getting from place to place.

Here’s why you should consider embracing it:

• Cost-Efficient: A ride on a long-distance bus can take you virtually anywhere you want to go in Mexico at a fraction of the cost of a domestic flight.
• Comfort: Opting for “ primera clase” (first class) service, although slightly pricier than the “ segunda clase” (second class), gives you the advantage of cushy reclining seats, individual entertainment screens, Wi-Fi, and even snacks. Costa Line, ADO, and ETN are some well-known long-distance bus services.
• Coverage: Countless bus companies serve even the most remote corners of Mexico, ensuring that you can reach your desired location.
• Convenience: Websites like Busbud can be instrumental in planning your bus travel itinerary and booking tickets.

Remember though, air-conditioning might be cranked high on these buses. Carry a light sweater for a more comfortable bus travel.

So, whether you’re journeying between states or hopping from one beach town to the next, a long-distance bus can provide a fun, relaxed, and cost-effective means of travel.

8. Opting for Rideshares and Domestic Flights

If you’re not inclined towards long-distance bus travel, or if time is a limiting factor, domestic flights and rideshares are great options.

• Domestic Flights: Domestic airline fares in Mexico are usually quite inexpensive, making travel across the country affordable. From coastal beach towns to mountain treks, from bustling cities to archaeological sites, quick domestic flights can save you a great deal of time. Low-cost carriers like Volaris and VivaAerobus often offer deals, and their services are typically reliable.
• Ridesharing: Ridesharing services, such as Uber, provide a convenient option for local travel or even rides to and from the airport in many Mexican cities. They are often more economical than taxis, and you can agree on your fare in advance, eliminating any risk of being overcharged.

Given the notorious reputation of Mexican taxis for inflating rates or rerouting passengers, it’s best to use a reliable rideshare service when possible. An added bonus is that the fare is debited from your connected card, so you don’t have to worry about having the correct change.

Remember, if you choose to travel late at night, splurge a bit on your ride’s quality, be it a taxi or a domestic flight. The little extra you spend will ensure a safer, more comfortable journey. Be it air or ground, planning your transportation properly will help you get the most out of your Mexican adventure!

Clip-On Baseball Cap Holder

9. precautionary measures when renting a car.

Renting a car can be an excellent way to explore Mexico at your own pace, giving you the flexibility to detour off the beaten path. However, certain precautions are necessary to ensure a safe and hassle-free experience.

• Always rent through reputable companies. Established renters such as Avis or Enterprise are reliable choices. Websites like Discover Cars can offer price comparisons and deals.
• Be wary of too-good-to-be-true deals. Extremely cheap rental rates often come with hidden costs, primarily through compulsory insurance.
• It’s common in Mexico for agents to insist on expensive insurance when you pick up the car. Mexico requires drivers to prove they have insurance if there is a serious accident. Negotiate and inquire about this beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
• Take detailed photos and videos of your rental car before leaving the lot. This will provide valuable proof should any discrepancies arise upon return.
• Pay with a travel credit card that offers collision damage coverage on rental vehicles, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card.
• Beware, most rental cars are manual. If you’re uncomfortable with it, check for automatic ones while booking.
• Remember to drive cautiously – Mexican road conditions can be unpredictable, and local driving practices might be different from what you’re used to.

Renting a car in Mexico doesn’t have to be daunting. Following these precautionary measures will keep you safe and let you enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring Mexico on your terms.

Here is my Complete Guide on Renting a Car in Mexico .

Packing Essentials for Mexico

10. a quick guide to mexico packing - what you should bring.

Packing for Mexico should be just as fun as making the trip! Here are some items specifically for Mexico to consider adding to your luggage:

• Light, dry-wicking clothing: Mexico’s lowland regions, especially in the spring and summer, can get particularly hot. Therefore, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is essential.
• Jackets and warm clothing: If you’re venturing to Mexico’s highlands or visiting Mexico City, you’ll need to pack jackets and warm clothing. The temperature can drop down into the 50s F / ~13°C each night, even during the summer.
• Mosquito repellent: Pesky mosquitos are a common occurrence in Mexico. Products containing DEET are recommended. Alternatively, less harsh products like the natural Repel Lemon-Eucalyptus repellent work excellently as well.
• Biodegradable sunscreen: If you plan to swim around coral reefs or in Yucatan’s cenotes, biodegradable sunscreen is a must. This is to protect the environment from the harmful effects of regular sunscreen.
• Mask & snorkel: Mexico’s coast provides great opportunities for snorkeling, so bring your mask and snorkel.
• Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses: To keep the sun’s harsh rays off your face and out of your eyes.
• Reusable shopping bags: Long-term travelers to Mexico should consider packing some reusable shopping bags, as many supermarkets no longer use plastic bags.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be prepared for practically anything on your Mexican adventure, ensuring a trip filled with beautiful memories!

11. Dress Code - Leave Fancy Clothes at Home

Mexicans are generally modest and conservative with their clothing choices. While the country’s vibrant cultural spirit seeps into its fashion, subdued outfits are preferred over flashy, high-end brand wear.

This is especially important to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

• Sensible, Comfortable Footwear: Don’t underestimate the amount of walking you’ll be doing. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially when navigating the cobblestone streets of many Mexican towns.
• Modest, Light Clothing: Clothing is pretty casual for most occasions, echoing the nation’s easy-going vibe. Light clothing is ideal for most coastal areas. Pack some breathable shirts, light pants, or maxi dresses.
• Avoid flashy labels: Designer labels might draw unnecessary attention. Instead, go for basic pieces that will keep you cool and comfortable.
• Swap shorts for leggings: Shorts can sometimes attract unwanted stares, especially in less tourist areas. Trade them for leggings when exploring inland towns or cities.
• Beachwear norms: While in beach towns, casual beachwear such as shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops are the norm.
• Layers for cool nights: Nights, especially in the highlands, can be chilly. Pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.
• Fanny Packs: A sturdy, wear-on-your-front fanny pack will keep your belongings safe while also letting your hands remain free for all the camera clicking and local food sampling!

By following the aforementioned dress tips, you can comfortably blend in, maintain your style while respecting local traditions, and minimize any potential safety issues.

The subtle art of blending in is possibly one of the best tips for traveling to Mexico!

Related Article: Top Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende .

12. Tech Essentials for Mexico

In this digital era, integrating tech into your travel plans not only offers convenience but also provides safety and seamless communication.

Here are some tech essentials to consider when traveling to Mexico:

• Your smartphone: For connecting with home, taking pictures, finding directions, translating, accessing an e-wallet, and a host of other functions.
• Travel plug adapter: Mexican power outlets are US-type A/B and work at 120V. If you travel from outside the US, you will need a suitable power plug adapter.
• Portable charger/Battery pack: Having a portable charger on hand ensures your devices never run out of juice on the go. They’re particularly beneficial during power outages, common in some less developed regions.
• Travel apps: Download useful apps such as Google Maps (offline map of your area) for navigating, Google Translate for language translation, Babbel or Duolingo for practicing Spanish, Uber or Didi for getting around, and WhatsApp for staying in touch with family, friends, and new connections.
• VPN: This is optional, but a reliable VPN safeguards your internet activity, especially on public Wi-Fi networks. Never access sensitive websites like banks and email from public WiFi without a VPN.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to sync your devices to your respective cloud services (iCloud, Google Photos, Dropbox, etc.) to back up photos and important documents.

In case of unfortunate events like loss or theft, you won’t lose your valuable memories or vital information. These tech essentials will act as your digital toolkit, making your Mexican trip smoother and safer!

Health and Safety in Mexico

13. staying safe while exploring mexico.

Exploring a foreign land inevitably brings excitement mixed with caution. While Mexico is often considered safe for travelers, vigilance is the key.

How do you balance being wary with savoring the awe-inspiring beauty and diverse culture that Mexico promises?

• Common Sense: Just like any country, Mexico recommends tourists exert ample amounts of common sense. Veer away from unfamiliar, isolated regions at night, be cautious about your alcohol intake, and retain knowledge about your immediate surroundings.
• Get Travel Insurance. This can protect not only from medical emergencies but also delays and lost luggage. We use Safety Wing .
• Trust your Intuition: Quite commonly, your intuition is your guardian angel. When something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Listen to your gut feeling.
• Travel during the Day: It’s best to travel during daylight hours, whether you’re taking a bus, driving, or walking around town.
• Dress Modestly: Dressing modestly and not flaunting wealth can make you a less likely target for thieves.
• Secure your Valuables: Use a money belt or hidden pouch for your money, cards, and passport.
• Be Prepared: Save emergency numbers on your phone and notify someone of your itinerary.

Remember, safety results from a series of smart, sensible choices. Do not agonize over it, but stay aware. By doing so, you’d be ensuring a rewarding, unhindered exploration of the magnificent Mexico!

14. Food and Water Safety in Mexico

Food and water safety are among the top concerns for travelers visiting Mexico. Following a few basic principles can save you from health issues, popularly known as ‘Montezuma’s Revenge,’ during your vacation.

• Eat Cooked Food : Always ensure your food is freshly cooked and served hot. Cooking kills most bacteria and parasites, resulting in safer meals.
• Drink Bottled Water : Tap water in Mexico isn’t safe for drinking. Always opt for sealed bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with safe drinking water.
• Avoid Roadside Vendors : Eating from roadside vendors can be a food safety hazard. Stick to reputable restaurants and eateries recommended by locals or other travelers.
• Avoid Uncooked Foods : Salads and unpeeled fruits must ideally be avoided unless you can ensure they have been cleaned with safe water.
• Use a Purifier : A bottle with a built-in water purifier, like the LifeStraw bottle, can come in handy. It can filter up to 99.99% of bacteria and other waterborne pathogens, making almost any water source safe.
• Be Careful with Sea Food : Be careful when consuming seafood. However tempting, don’t try street-side oyster or seafood dishes unless you’re confident they’ve been kept refrigerated and are fresh.

Proper handling and preparation of food and ensuring safe drinking water is the key to avoiding falling ill. Bad experiences can ruin your vacation and significantly disrupt plans.

Stay vigilant and enjoy the delicious Mexican cuisine!

15. Keeping Healthy - Dealing with Mexico’s Climate

Mexico’s diverse climate can pose some unique health challenges. From arid deserts to tropical coasts to high-altitude locales, knowing how to navigate different climate zones can save you from potential health issues:

• Altitude Sickness: High-altitude locations like Mexico City can cause altitude sickness, which may result in breathlessness, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Consider taking it easy for the first day or two to acclimatize.
• Sun Protection: The sun can be potent, especially at higher altitudes and on the coasts. Always wear a hat, sunglasses, and use a high-factor sun cream.
• Dehydration: The risk of dehydration is high in arid regions. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water. Alcoholic beverages, coffee, and certain teas can lead to dehydration.
• Eat Healthily: Local delicacies can be tantalizing, but remember to maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Weather Check: Monitor the weather forecast before setting out for outdoor activities.
• Hurricane Season: Remember that Mexico sits squarely in the hurricane belt, with its coasts susceptible to big storms from June to November. So, track the weather updates closely.

Taking the time to prepare for and understand Mexico’s unique weather conditions will allow you to focus on the fun and cultural immersion and create unforgettable memories!

Here is a list of my Favorite Beaches in Mexico .

Navigating the Mexican Cuisine

16. trying out local street food safely.

Mexican street food is a comprehensive gastronomic delight that no traveler should miss out on. Yet, it’s natural to be a bit wary due to concerns about hygiene. Here are some tips on how to safely enjoy the mouthwatering street foods:

• Go Where The Crowds Go: A bustling food cart is always a good sign, indicating popular, fresh fare. Locals know the best spots, and repeat patrons suggest the place is trusted.
• Check the Equipment: If local vendors wear gloves, use hair nets, and have clean cooking utensils, it’s usually safe to eat there.
• Time Of The Day: Opt for street food during peak meal times (lunch and dinner) when the turnover of food is higher, ensuring you’re getting the freshest meals.
• Cooked Over Raw: I always prefer cooked food, including sauces. Cooking kills most bacteria and reduces the chance of food-borne illnesses.
• Hydrate Safely: Always drink from sealed bottles or canned beverages. Avoid drinking local water – even in the form of ice.

The essence of Mexico is echoed beautifully in the aromas of its street food. Following these precautionary measures, your culinary adventure in the land of the finest cuisines – Mexico, will definitely be delightful!

17. Tipping Etiquette in Mexico’s Food Scene

Tipping is as much a part of Mexico’s dining etiquette as it is a gesture of appreciation for good service. It’s customary to tip servers, bartenders, street food vendors, Uber, and taxi drivers.

Here are a few general guidelines to follow when tipping in Mexico:

• Basic Ratio: A 10-20% tip is expected in restaurants, depending on the service you receive. An easy way to calculate is to double the tax (IVA) shown on your bill.
• Cash Over Card: Try to tip in cash, even if you pay for your meal with a card. This ensures that the tip goes directly to the person who served you.
• Street Food & Cafes: For taquerias and street food stands, a smaller tip of around 10% is appropriate. The same goes for casual cafes.
• Tipping Upfront: It’s customary to add the tip before your card is run, not after signing.
• More than Food Service: Don’t forget to tip baggers at grocery stores, hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers. A few pesos can go a long way.

Remember, these guidelines are just that – guidelines. Tipping should also reflect your personal satisfaction with the service you have received.

Considerate tipping is not only courteous but also enhances the provider’s economic stability. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to navigate the dining scene in Mexico like a pro!

Getting the Best of Mexican Culture and Heritage

18. exploring beyond the touristy resorts.

Mexico’s touristy resorts are remarkable in their own respect, but the true essence of Mexico lies beyond these confinements.

Shying away from the comfort of resorts and venturing into authentic local experiences expose travelers to a richer cultural understanding.

• Historic Sites: Mexico is steeped in history. Venturing out to archaeological sites like Teotihuacan lets you comprehend the pre-colonial history of this richly diverse country.
• Local Markets and Street Food: Local markets like the Saturday Bazaar in Mexico City or Mercado Benito Juarez in Oaxaca serve as portals into the everyday lives of locals. Consume the vibrant ecosystem that encircles these hubs of activity while sampling local foods.
• Connect with Locals: Step into a local bar, a cafe, or even a park. Interact with locals in their daily environments. They often provide the best-hidden treasures that formal guides don’t reveal.
• Skip the tour: If there’s a place on the town map that interests you, consider walking or taking public transport instead of guided tours. It gives you flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace.

Begin your day at all-inclusive beachside resorts, then allocate some time to step outside the vicinity to explore local experiences, and you will uncover the true, raw charm of Mexico.

Here are all the Best Places to Visit in Mexico .

19. Connecting with Locals and Respecting Cultural Norms

Creating genuine connections with the locals can transform your Mexico trip from a typical sightseeing holiday into a truly enlightening cultural immersion. As former President Eisenhower said, “People-to-people understanding can build a structure of peace”.

Use it to understand more about how life really is in your destination through a local’s point of view and make new friendships. Remember, in Mexico, good manners are appreciated, so be polite and respect the local norms.

• Master the Local Lingo: Learn a few common Spanish phrases. Even a little effort is appreciated and can go a long way in making connections. Greetings such as “Buenos días” (Good morning), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Por favor” (Please) are great starting points. The phrase “Provecho” while someone’s eating, even strangers, also earns brownie points!
• Understand the Social Norms: Mexicans tend to be friendly and warm. When you enter a shop or restaurant, be prepared to greet the salespeople and say goodbye when you leave.
• Embrace the Culture: Gain an insight into the local culture by participating in festive activities and visiting local marketplaces.
• Manners and Respect: Remember, politeness is highly prevalent in Mexican culture. Always exercise good manners and respect when interacting with locals.

Interacting with locals, understanding their customs, and respecting them greatly enrich your travel experiences. Remember, travel is not just about visiting places; it’s also about learning, understanding, and respecting the culture and traditions.

So, make local connections for magical memories on your Mexican voyage!

20. Learn Some Helpful Spanish Phrases

While English is spoken widely in Mexican tourist areas, venturing further afield may require a basic understanding of Spanish. Getting familiar with some Spanish phrasing doesn’t just make your travel easier — it also endears you to the locals and shows respect towards their language and customs.

Here are a few phrases to get you started:

• “Hola” – Hello
• “Gracias” – Thank you
• “Por favor” – Please
• “Sí” – Yes
• “No” – No
• “No comprendo” – I do not understand
• “Hablas inglés?” – Do you speak English?
• “Dónde está el baño?” – Where is the bathroom?
• “Cuánto cuesta?” – How much does it cost?
• “Dónde está…?” – Where is…?
• “Me puede ayudar?” – Can you help me?
• “Disculpe” – Excuse me

Conversational Spanish apps such as Babbel or language learning tools like Duolingo can be helpful companions in mastering these. While challenging at first, mastering some common phrases will open a new dimension to your Mexican getaway.

Remember, language learning is a surefire way to gain a more in-depth understanding of a country’s culture and connect on a deeper level with its people.

FAQs about Traveling in Mexico

Is it safe to travel to mexico right now.

Yes, generally, Mexico is safe to visit.

However, just like any other country, it has places with elevated levels of crime or violence, which travelers would be wise to avoid.

While major tourist destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta maintain their appeal, some regions are best avoided due to security concerns.

As always, personal safety often comes down to common sense and awareness. Avoid displaying affluence through items such as jewelry, designer clothes, or high-end electronics. It’s also sensible to stay low-profile and follow the lead of locals.

For personalized advice on specific destinations within Mexico, consult your country’s travel advisory or the local embassy. Exercising due caution and keeping informed will undeniably contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit to this stunning and hospitable country.

Here are the Best Things to Do in Tulum .

Do I need a visa to enter Mexico?

Citizens of the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, the European Union Schengen area, as well as many countries in Latin America, do not need a visa to enter Mexico for tourism, business meetings, or transiting.

They need to fill out a form known as an FMM – there’s no fee if the visit is for seven days or less; for more than seven days, there’s a fee of around $30 USD.

That being said, residents from certain other countries are obliged to obtain an e-visa prior to their arrival in Mexico.

For visits lasting nearly 180 days or less (as tourists), a Visitor Without Permission to Perform Paid Activities visa or an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) is generally issued at the airport when you arrive, provided you have a valid passport.

Always check with the local Mexican embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, laws, and customs that could impact your travel plans.

Which is the best local SIM card to purchase in Mexico?

The most recommended local SIM card for travelers in Mexico is the Telcel SIM Card.

Telcel is the most popular network in Mexico, providing excellent coverage across the country, making it an excellent choice for tourists.

Here’s why it’s the best choice:

• Wide Coverage: Telcel has the most extensive network coverage in Mexico, ensuring you’re connected almost everywhere.
• Affordability: With plans starting at less than $20 USD per month, Telcel offers plenty of data at a reasonably low cost.
• Easy to Purchase: You can purchase a Telcel SIM card upon arrival at the airport, at local convenience stores like Oxxo, Fasti, or X24, or in cell phone shops.
• Easy to Use: Buying and setting up a Telcel SIM card is straightforward; you walk into a store and ask for a new SIM, and they will help you set it up.
• Managing Data: Download the Mi Telcel app to check your balance and top up as needed.

The Telcel SIM is a great alternative to buying an expensive international data plan or paying hefty roaming charges. So, if you’re planning on visiting Mexico, don’t forget to grab a Telcel SIM card to stay connected throughout your journey!

How safe is Mexico City for tourists?

When it comes to safety, Mexico City is a bit of a paradox.

• On one hand, it’s a bustling, modern metropolis bustling with friendly locals and rich cultural experiences.
• On the other hand, like any massive city, it struggles with crime. But don’t let that discourage you – it is generally safe for tourists.

Central areas like Polanco, Roma, and Condesa are quite safe and popular with tourists. These areas are heavily policed and tend to be safer, especially during the day. The crime rate is higher in the outskirts of the city, where tourists usually have no reason to go.

Key safety tips for navigating Mexico City include:

• Being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Not flaunting valuables.
• Using reliable taxi services or Uber instead of hailing random cabs on the street.
• Abiding by directions and warnings from local authorities.

However, considering that Mexico City is one of the largest cities globally, and in such a metropolis, local issues can greatly deviate from general perceptions. Staying vigilant, being street-smart, and taking precautions can ensure a safe and delightful experience of exploring Mexico City’s charms.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this city that thrives with vibrant markets, world-class museums, and exquisite cuisine!

What are the best things to know when traveling to Mexico all-inclusive?

All-inclusive resorts are highly popular among tourists visiting Mexico. They provide a variety of services like food, drinks, and sometimes activities, all bundled in one package.

Here are the best things to know when traveling to Mexico all-inclusive:

• Research Before Booking: Not all all-inclusive resorts are created equal. Research amenities, activities, dining options, and resort reviews before settling on one.
• Different Plan Options: More upscale resorts often provide different types of all-inclusive packages. These may include an à la carte dining option, access to private areas, excursions, sports activities, airport transfers, and more.
• Resort Credits: Some resorts offer resort credits, which can be used at on-site spas, golf, room upgrades, or outside tours. However, they may come with restrictions, so ask for detailed information before using them.
• Tipping is Encouraged: Even if you’re on an all-inclusive plan, staff members appreciate tips as they work very hard to ensure you have a perfect vacation. Usually, a couple of dollars per day for housekeeping and $1-2 per drink at the bar are standard.
• Food Hygiene: Most all-inclusive resorts, especially well-established brands, have high food hygiene standards. Hence, it’s generally safe to eat and drink in these places.
• Use of Facilities: Check which facilities are inclusive. Sometimes spa services, guided tours, motorized water sports, and special dining options might carry an extra charge.

An all-inclusive vacation in Mexico can be the perfect chance to relax and enjoy, with all your necessities taken care of in advance. Ensure you choose the right package that offers value, suits your preferences and allows you to stay within budget while having a memorable vacation.

Here is my Complete List of Things to Do in Mexico .

What should I be careful of when Travelling to Mexico?

While Mexico is a beautiful place with friendly people, diverse landscapes, and a rich history, certain cautions should be considered when planning a visit.

Some things to be mindful of include:

• Keep Valuables Hidden: It’s ideal to leave your expensive jewelry and unnecessary electronics at home. If you must carry any valuables, keep them hidden and secure.
• Travel with Others: Especially in less developed or rural areas, it’s safer to travel with others rather than alone.
• Transportation Safety: Use only licensed, reliable transport. Always be careful of your belongings.
• Water Safety: Tap water in Mexico is not safe for drinking. Always opt for bottled water or bring a water purifier.
• Food Safety : Stick to food that is cooked and served hot. When purchasing from street vendors or in local markets, opt for places frequented by locals to ensure the quality and safety of what you’re eating.
• Stay Informed : Stay updated with news and alerts in the region. The United States Department of State’s Mexico Travel Advisory is an excellent tool for American travelers to be aware of any safety concerns.
• Emergency Contacts : Always have the local emergency contact numbers saved or written down. The general nationwide emergency number in Mexico is 911.

By taking note of these precautions, you can vastly enhance your safety, and your trip to Mexico can be full of only pleasant and memorable experiences!

Is Cancun safe to travel?

Cancun, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, is widely regarded as safe for tourists.

In fact, it is one of the best tourist destinations in Mexico and hosts millions of tourists each year.

That said, certain precautions are always useful:

• Tourist Zone: The Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), where most resorts are located, is generally very safe. The police often patrol these areas, and crime rates are relatively low.
• Outside the Resort: When venturing outside the resort, use the awareness you would use in any major city. Stick to well-traveled areas, don’t flaunt valuable items, and be extra cautious at night.
• Transportation: Use licensed cabs or reputable rideshares like Uber instead of hailing a taxi on the street to reduce the risk of being overcharged.
• Water Safety: Follow flag warnings on beaches – red flags signal dangerous swimming conditions. Always err on the side of caution, no matter how tempting the water may seem.
• Check Travel Advisories: Regularly check your country’s travel advisories for any updates or warnings.

Yes, in spite of negative news trends, Cancun remains a safe and engaging place for tourists. Always follow safety rules, stay updated, and your Cancun vacation will be a memorable one!

Made by travelers, for travelers, check out the Barefoot Caribou Products below!

Conclusion: Mexico Travel Tips

Traveling to Mexico can be an unforgettable experience filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals.

By undertaking adequate preparations and keeping these informative travel tips in mind, you can not only overcome any travel hitches but also ensure a smooth, memorable vacation.

Whether you’re planning a trip to the mesmerizing beaches of Cancun, the historic city of Teotihuacan, or the bustling heart of Mexico City, remember – informed travel preparation paired with common sense and respect for the local culture is indispensable for a safe and fulfilling travel experience.

Lastly, although the list might seem extensive, the most crucial tip would be this: Enjoy Mexico! The historic beauty, the lively culture, the warm people, the culinary delights – all await you in Mexico. Don’t let the nuances of travel dampen the enjoyment of your journey.

The country, with its diverse offerings, is sure to charm you into wanting to return. As they say in Mexico, “¡Buen viaje amigos!” (Safe travels, friends!)

And if I missed anything, let me know in the comments below!

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Top Mexico Travel Tips To Know For A First-Timer

About the author

Alex Gomez, the founder of Mexico Travel Buddy, combines his firsthand, on-the-ground experiences in Mexico with a personal connection to the country, fostered through his Mexican wife and numerous explorations. More info

Traveling to Mexico for your first time is a big deal, especially if it’s your first time traveling abroad. I understand the many questions and concerns that may cross your mind when planning your first trip to Mexico, but guess what? We all go through the same thing – I want you to understand you are not alone in this.

That’s why I am here to help you. I was once in the exact same situation you are in RIGHT NOW. If it weren’t for my wife, I would have had no one to turn to for answers. I am lucky to have her share her Mexico travel tips with me.

There are tons of things to look out for when traveling to Mexico. For example, when you arrive in Mexico, there are probably many things you will want to buy. Whether it be food, souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, or little handmade trinkets, a lot will catch your eye. However, you should approach purchasing things in Mexico in a few different ways. Many of these tips for traveling to Mexico will also save you a lot of money , not to mention stress.

There are so many things you can watch for that will help ensure your first trip to Mexico is the best. I have learned all these travel tips for Mexico through personal experience , and now I’m here to pass them on to you so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your Mexican vacation .

Travel Tip #1 – What You Need Before You Go To Mexico

Here are some important tips to know before traveling to Mexico. There are some bare essentials you need to make sure you have covered before you even book your flight.

This is what you MUST have before you go to Mexico :

• Valid Passport Book (if flying) or Passport Card (only valid for land and sea travel)
• Entry Permit (FMM) – Receive this on your flight, or print it out ahead of time (do note: there have been some recent changes to this policy – check out the U.S. Embassy notice here – make sure you find out from your airline as to what the latest steps are.

Having a good travel insurance policy set up before you head off is a smart idea. This could help cover those unforeseen costs, which can be hefty if you’re unlucky. Again, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Read my guide on whether Mexican travel insurance is worth getting to understand better what I’m talking about.

See also: Best Tips For Exchanging Your Money For Pesos

Once you confirm that you have the above essential items, you can officially travel to Mexico, but that’s not all you’ll want to pack. I feel like I over-prepare for my trips to Mexico nowadays, but I’d rather be over-prepared than not prepared at all.

Finding something you need may be difficult at short notice, depending on which part of Mexico you are traveling to. So make sure you cover all your bases before leaving on your trip.

Here are some other items you may want to consider adding to your luggage, all of which can be easily purchased on Amazon:

• Reef-Friendly Sunscreen (most excursions require a “reef-friendly” sunscreen)
• Insect Repellent (insects enjoy munching on foreigners)
• Sunglasses (it’s incredibly bright in Mexico)
• Water Shoes (for the hot beach and most excursions and tours)
• Filtered Water Bottle (don’t drink tap water in Mexico)
• Extremely Bright Flashlight (for those late-night adventures)
• Quality Portable Phone Charger (you’ll be taking a lot of photos)
• Waterproof Phone Pouch (if you plan on being anywhere near the water)

Although these items aren’t required for entry into Mexico (obviously), I think they come in very handy. You’d be crazy not to carry around sunscreen or insect repellent when visiting Mexico. Trust me, this is coming from someone who has traveled to Mexico without most of these items, and if you were wondering, I regretted it…

Aside from these essential items, make sure to pack proper clothing . If you’re traveling to a scorching hot area in Mexico such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, or Cabo for example, you will want to pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, swimsuits, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat that provides some shade for your face.

Alright, so your bags are packed, and you’re ready to go – now it’s time for the fun part. Are you ready?! You’re about to travel to Mexico for the first time! Here we go!

See also: Mexico Travel Insurance: Is It Worth It

Travel Tip #2 – Visit Mexico With An Open Mind!

I remember asking my wife what I should expect the first time when I travel to Mexico . Oh Boy! I was in for a surprise!

Your first time in Mexico is the best – expect to see many people offering to sell you things, food and drinks available everywhere, people whistling and yelling at you to get your attention, and an overall fun and welcoming atmosphere.

It’s essential to keep an open mind when you’re there. Things can be pretty different from what you’re used to.

Appreciate how different Mexico is from what you’re used to, appreciate the diversity of people, sights and sounds, and truly savor your time there .

“Travel to Mexico with an open heart and open eyes; the vibrancy of its culture and warmth of its people turn every encounter into a lasting memory.” Salt and Charcoal Travel

First off, though, you must board your flight if you plan on making it to Mexico. For the most part, your flight will be the same as any other flight you have experienced, whether domestic or international.

Travel Tip #3 – Save On Flight Bookings!

My first time booking flights to Mexico was somewhat confusing due to a few issues I was unaware of, but after booking many flights to Mexico, I uncovered all the flight booking tips and tricks.

Have you ever searched for flights online to realize the price you saw 5 minutes ago suddenly jumped significantly and is now more than before? This is due to dynamic pricing.

See also: The Best Currency To Use In Mexico (Maximize Your Spending)

Dynamic pricing , also known as surge pricing , is a pricing strategy businesses use by setting flexible prices for products or services, which increase or decrease based on market demand. So if you’re constantly searching for plane tickets, sites will recognize this behavior and adjust the pricing accordingly.

Here are some flight booking tips that may help you significantly reduce the cost of your tickets (these have worked for me in the past, but not necessarily every time).

• Tip 1: Use Private Browsing mode on your device, and if possible, download a Virtual Private Network (VPN), such as this free option on ProtonVPN.com . Using a VPN makes your online activity virtually untraceable, possibly avoiding surge pricing.
• Tip 2: Whether you download a VPN or not, make sure to clear your browser history and cookies before enabling private browsing mode. Then you go ahead and search for your flights.
• Tip 3: Book your flight on a weekday , preferably on Tuesday or Wednesday. Most airlines release their new sales early on Tuesday, which forces all airlines to adjust their pricing to match the current standard. Book your flight Tuesday afternoon or early Wednesday and save even more money.
• Tip 4: If you don’t mind a layover or two, book a flight with a few short layovers ; these flights are generally cheaper than a direct flight.

Travel Tip #4 – What To Expect On The Flight To Mexico

Depending on where you fly out of, you may have a direct flight or possibly a couple of layovers. Since I always fly out of Boise, Idaho, I usually end up in either Salt Lake City, UT, Phoenix, AZ or even Denver, CO. Regardless of where you end up, this part of your flight is pretty standard.

When you arrive in the city where you will depart from and head to Mexico, this is where things will be slightly more interesting.

Fill Out The Customs Declaration Form

On the flight headed to Mexico, this is where you will fill out your Entry Permit (FMM) if you haven’t already printed one out ahead of time. In addition to your Entry Permit, you must fill out a Customs Declaration Form.

The Customs Declaration Form is per family. So if you are traveling with three other family members living in the same household, only one person must fill out the form. However, you will need to know each household member’s first and last names (hopefully you do…).

The Declaration form will ask you to fill in particular information pertaining to the number of family members traveling with you, your means of transportation, and anything you may need to declare, such as:

• Live animals, meats, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, dangerous materials
• Disease agents; live/dead cultures
• Weapons or cartridges
• Professional working equipment
• Merchandise (over your baggage and duty-free exemption) for which you must pay import duties
• Soil or if you have visited a farm, ranch or prairie and have been in contact with livestock

It’s all elementary stuff, and most of it will be a yes or no answer, so there is no need to worry.

Once you have filled out your entry permit and customs declaration, tuck them away somewhere safe and easily accessible so you can get to them once you arrive at customs in Mexico. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy the rest of your flight.

Travel Tip #5 – Going Through Customs In Mexico

When you land in Mexico, you will file out of the plane, similar to a herd of sheep, making your way to the customs area . Once at the customs area, you must scan your passport on the machine and have your picture taken as well. If you are wearing a hat and/or sunglasses, removing them is a good idea; otherwise, a customs agent will ask you to anyway.

Once you have scanned your passport, you will hop in line and slowly inch toward the customs counter. Here, you will be asked some very basic questions, such as; where you are going, why you are going there, and how long you are staying. Easy enough.

Some of the custom agents aren’t the friendliest people. You need to remember they are doing their job and make sure to treat them with kindness and respect, even if you don’t receive the same in return.

When you finally make it through customs, you can grab your luggage that may be waiting for you, and then you are on your way out the door and ready to hop in your cab or Uber.

Pro Mexico Travel Tip :

If you land in a tourist city such as Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Tulum, etc., you will be hollered and whistled at and likely even approached by people trying to sell your insurance, transportation, or even time-shares. If you aren’t interested, keep walking straight ahead. No need to even mumble a word.

If you are interested in any of these services, feel free to stop and see what they have to offer, but beware, most services provided in the airport will be overpriced .

Travel Tip #6 – Airport Transportation In Mexico

Don’t stress if you need to arrange for a transfer out of the airport, and did not schedule any ahead of time, don’t stress. There is always an abundance of taxis and shuttles waiting outside , ready to take you wherever you want to go. You can always ask for the price before accepting the ride. Then jump in and enjoy the ride.

If the city you are in offers Uber, it is very likely that an Uber won’t be allowed to enter the airport’s property . If you have your heart set on taking an Uber, you may have to walk off of the airport’s property so they can pick you up. I’ve done this multiple times in Puerto Vallarta. It’s very simple.

Here is a list of popular Mexican cities and their Uber Pickup availability at the airport:

Travel Tip #7 – What NOT To Do When Traveling To Mexico

Although Mexico is a friendly and inviting place, there are bad people in all parts of the world. Even though most things seem like common sense, you’d be surprised how doing or not doing some of these simple things can ruin your trip.

There are many things ❌ you should NOT DO ❌ when traveling to Mexico, such as:

• Wear fancy or expensive jewelry
• Expose your money or tell someone how much money you have
• Leave any personal items out in the open
• Leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from someone you don’t know
• Drink tap water
• Cause a scene or uproar
• Walk around at night by yourself
• Walk around with a lot of money

As I said, this is all just common sense, right? WRONG . I have seen visitors to Mexico do most of these things, and it’s scary, to say the least.

In my experience, use your head, be aware of your surroundings, and you will be alright.

My wife and I explored the entire city of Puerto Vallarta at night, and we had no problems. Carrying an extremely bright flashlight if you plan on night exploring can help tremendously.

That being said, I don’t recommend venturing around every city in Mexico after the sun has gone down. You’ll have to use your personal judgment to determine whether a city is safe or not.

If you want to explore a city at night, carry a flashlight, don’t wander alone , and try to stay in the tourist-populated areas. Traveling outside of the tourist zones may put you in a position where there are fewer people and where fewer people are likely to help.

Travel Tip #8 – Pay in Pesos, Avoid Dollars

Before even thinking about shopping anywhere in Mexico, you must use the proper currency. If you don’t have Mexican pesos, you must get some immediately! Unless you prefer overpaying for everything and potentially getting ripped off.

The only reason I say this is because, in Mexico, the U.S. dollar to Peso conversion rate is constantly fluctuating. When you enter a shop with U.S. dollars or other currency that isn’t Mexican Pesos, you leave the conversation to the store employee. Do not put yourself in this situation.

It is much simpler to pay in Pesos because that is how everything is priced in Mexico. If you were to pay in dollars or another currency, you would have to convert on the spot, and you are leaving room for error.

Send Yourself Some Pesos

There are many ways to go about converting your money into Pesos. However, I think the best way to convert your money to pesos is by using a service such as WorldRemit.com to send the money, then pick it up locally. In my experience, it’s the most simple and secure option and one of the quickest ways to convert your money. Your money will be available for pickup within minutes.

Moreover, you receive the best conversion rate with very minimal fees (only a few dollars). This is as opposed to an ATM where you pay multiple fees , plus you risk being out in the open when receiving your cash, exposing yourself to thieves who may be waiting for the right moment to steal your hard-earned cash.  NOT ON MY WATCH!

If you want to know how I send money to myself while in Mexico, just read this excellent article: Best Ways To Send Money To Mexico . This will show you the exact steps to take to send yourself money, which automatically converts your cash to pesos at the touch of a button. I know it sounds so easy, but that’s because it is.

Use A Travel Debit Card

You could also opt to transfer some money to a debit card with a smaller amount of money in it. Wise is a good option to do this. This way, you also avoid carrying too much cash on hand.

Reminders :

• Always shop with Pesos.
• Convert your money using a money transfer app instead of an ATM or conversion station.
• Send yourself the Pesos beforehand or use a travel debit card.

Travel Tip #9 – Practice Your Bargaining Skills

Don’t Feel Pressured To Buy Anything

The local markets, which are often found in almost every city in Mexico, are fantastic. There’s so much to look at, and much is happening. Many vendors will be very aggressive (not physically, but they want to get you into their shop).

My advice is don’t listen to them and don’t feel bad if you don’t want to enter their shop . Even if you enter their store, that does not mean you are required to purchase anything. They will say anything to try and make you feel bad or even say they have the best deal, but this is usually untrue.

Mexicans are excellent salespeople and have learned many tactics through years of selling. It’s not uncommon to see kids working at their local family shop, starting to learn from a very young age. It’s pretty awesome to see.

Know How To Bargain

If you are shopping for something specific or find an item you like, the seller is almost always willing to bargain with you . So put on your bargaining hat and buckle down. Things are about to get heated (not really).

Bargaining is really simple. You find something you like, you browse a few different shops and look at the average price for that item (most shops will have the exact same or similar items), then you set the absolute highest price you are willing to pay for that item, then get to bargaining.

You may have to return to shops you have already been to if you can’t get the price you want at one shop. This is usually to your advantage. You can say, “Well, that shop offered it to me for this price. Can you do it for cheaper?”

Eventually, you find which shop will bargain the most, ultimately finding the best deal. Some shops are just not willing to budge on price. This is usually because they are the only shop with that exact item, or maybe they don’t want to bargain. It’s up to you to determine whether you want the item.

The more expensive an item  (such as a handmade blanket), the more room there is for bargaining . I remember buying one of my blankets for about 500 pesos cheaper than what they were asking. It took a few different shop visits and a lot of holding my ground, but I eventually ended up with the best deal, and both the seller and my wife were happy with the outcome.

The more you bargain, the better you get. It’s honestly quite enjoyable. The sellers expect you to bargain, so they set high prices. So, good luck!

• Don’t feel forced to buy anything
• Always pay in pesos
• Never let anyone know how much money you have
• Bargain for the best deal
• Speaking Spanish is a HUGE bonus

Travel Tip #10 – Try Less Touristy Food Options

Look For Budget Friendly Dining Options

There are many options when it comes to food in Mexico, and there are a lot of different price ranges you may end up paying as well. Of course, it ultimately comes down to what food you like and what you or your family are willing to try.

You can’t necessarily bargain when you are buying food , but I still have some words of wisdom when it comes down to saving money on food.

When you are searching for a place to eat, expect restaurants to be more expensive than street food in Mexico (obviously). But even then, it’s all about location.  If you visit a restaurant smack-dab in the middle of a tourist area, expect to pay a premium price for your food . If you want to save some money, though, it may take a bit more exploring the city to find those hole-in-the-wall treasures .

Look For Local Options

There are a few ways to find these hidden treasures. Your first option is to explore the city. Try heading towards more local parts of the town . You will most likely find some inexpensive and authentic food. Most restaurants will have an English and Spanish menu , even if you are in a more localized spot. If you have difficulty reading Spanish, download an app like Google Translate, which will convert any Spanish words on the menu into English, or your language of choice. How awesome is that?

Besides eating at a restaurant, try eating at a local vendor or food cart that is usually found on a busy street or an area that receives a lot of foot traffic.

One of the simplest ways to find the cheapest dining option is to search on Google.com. I tend to lean towards the best-ranked options first, then I click to find out exactly where the restaurant is located, and I make a judgment call from there. If the location is in the middle of the city, away from tourist attractions, the prices will most likely be fair, and the food will taste outstanding.

Travel Tip #11 – Make Smart Food Choices – Look Out For These Cues

Besides searching for reviews on Google, there are some signs you should watch for to ensure your food choice is good and safe to eat.

Here are some simple signals to look for to ensure your food choice is the right choice :

• Look for restaurants and food carts/stands that are busy . This clearly indicates that the food has a good reputation and is a trustworthy source.
• Make sure the person handling the money isn’t the one who’s serving your food . This may be a direct sign that the place is unsanitary.
• Ensure the food looks fresh and that it hasn’t been sitting out all day . If it smells bad, it’s probably bad.

I haven’t experienced any terrible food while visiting Mexico, although my stomach has been upset several times. I couldn’t say for sure if this were due to food poisoning or, more likely, it was just  travelers’ diarrhea . The food in Mexico is a bit different than in the States, and those with a sensitive stomach (me) may take some adjusting before going all-out.

To help with stomach pain caused by excess gas, diarrhea, or indigestion, I suggest taking activated charcoal supplements such as this one on Amazon or buying some at your local health food store before your trip. You’ll thank me later…

Travel Tip #12 – Don’t Forget To Tip At Restaurants

Just like anywhere else, you are expected to tip if you received good service when dining out. How much you tip is up to you, but a good rule of thumb is to tip at least 10% of the total bill . For example, if your bill is a total of $10.00, leave at least $1.00.

I know this doesn’t seem like much, but your server will appreciate it. If you feel the service was exceptional and you have the means to tip a little extra, then feel free to leave a 20-30% tip.

• Explore local dining options rather than touristy restaurants.
• Search for the best/cheapest food options using Google as your guide .
• Look for busy food spots . This is a positive indicator of good food and service.
• Make sure the food handler and money grabber are not the same people .
• Use an activated charcoal supplement to help with stomach pain and cramps.

Travel Tip #13 – Know Your Transportation Options Around Mexico

We all need to get around town, especially if we are trying to explore the entire city or enjoy some excursions. But what are the best money-saving options when it comes to transportation?

When trying to save money on transportation, walking is your cheapest option. Second would be the local bus, the third is an Uber (where available), and lastly would be a taxi or private shuttle.

I’ve found that cities such as Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan, for example, are very easy to explore simply by walking. While walking, you get to experience the city in a completely different way than if you were in a vehicle. The sounds, smells, and sights of the city become slightly skewed when you’re locked behind the windows of a bus or cab.

Local Buses

If walking is not quite an option, then in my experience, your next most inexpensive option is to hop on the local bus. Bus rides are generally less than $1.00 and will take you anywhere you need to go within city limits.

I highly recommend riding a bus if you feel comfortable (most likely with no air conditioning) . It’s cheap, gets you where you need to go, and all you have to say is “Baja” (I want off), and the bus driver will stop as soon as possible to let you off.

Grab an Uber

Maybe the local bus isn’t for you. In that case, my next choice would be an Uber. Uber is available in most cities in Mexico and is a convenient and cheap alternative. I like Uber because you can see where you are going, how long it will take, and how much the ride will be. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

Taxi or Personal Shuttle

My last choice of transportation would be a taxi or personal shuttle. Generally, you will pay anywhere from 2-4 times the amount an Uber would cost when choosing to ride in a cab . Most cities will have a set price for specific areas, which is nice, plus taxis are found on every street corner, making them one of the most convenient options, but be prepared to pay a premium for convenience.

Rent a Car in Mexico

If you’re more adventurous, you may also opt to drive in Mexico . This will give you the freedom to travel all around Mexico. Mexico is a huge country, so you could certainly cover more ground this way.

Ensure you rent a car from a reputable dealer. Alternatively, you could  drive your own car across the border . Either way, you MUST have an appropriate car insurance policy . Ensure you read my guide before driving a car in Mexico so that you know what to expect.

• Walking is the cheapest/ best option for experiencing the city.
• Busses are very inexpensive and will take you anywhere within city limits.
• Ubers are convenient and cheap while maintaining a certain level of privacy and security.
• Taxis are the most expensive. However, they are incredibly convenient and ready to take you anywhere.

Travel Tip #14 – Staying Safe In Mexico – Practical Safety Tips

We have all heard rumors about Mexico being a violent and scary place. While some of these rumors are true, most likely, you will never experience any serious safety concerns while visiting Mexico, especially if you know what to watch out for and stay aware of your surroundings.

It’s relatively simple to take extra precautions and remain vigilant while exploring Mexico, do it enough, and it will become second nature to you.

Here are some simple safety tips you can implement immediately and see instant results :

• Carry a bright flashlight with you wherever you go.
• Wear a hidden wallet or sew a secret pocket in your clothes to hide valuables such as money, passports, and credit/debit cards.
• Avoid wandering alone if possible. If you are exploring by yourself, avoid areas that are out of sight of public view.
• Bring older, worn-out clothes when traveling to Mexico, and avoid bringing your nice clothes so you don’t draw attention to yourself. If you must, bring a pair of nice clothes that you will only wear for a formal outing
• Always communicate with your travel partners wear you are going , when, and for how long. That way, everyone is on the same page regarding your whereabouts and your well-being.
• Make sure your phone is always on you and fully charged. Consider always carrying a quality portable phone charger to avoid a possible dead battery.
• Opt for a local sim card if you don’t have roaming. Picking one up before you leave the airport might be convenient.
• Carry a camera around (you may be thinking why). In my experience, a camera seems to keep people astray. They don’t want to be on camera, especially if they’re doing something they shouldn’t be doing.

Those Are My Mexico Travel Tips – Enjoy Mexico!

I know it’s a lot to consider, but these are all tips I personally employ anytime I am in Mexico. It’s not so much that I’m afraid of something terrible happening; instead, I want to be prepared if something happens. Remember, it’s better to be over-prepared than not prepared at all.

There is a lot that has been covered here. I will leave you with the last words of advice: don’t overthink everything . Sometimes you need to go with the flow , that’s how I travel to Mexico nowadays, and it works out great.

If there’s something you want to try, don’t shy away. Get out there and have fun! You’re in a foreign country anyways. It’s not like anyone knows who you are or will likely ever see you again.

Alex Gomez, the founder of Mexico Travel Buddy, combines his firsthand, on-the-ground experiences in Mexico with a personal connection to the country, fostered through his Mexican wife and numerous explorations. As a professional writer and avid travel enthusiast, his favorite destination remains anywhere within Mexico's diverse landscapes. His extensive travels have equipped him with a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and insights, which he enthusiastically shares with his audience. Alex's stories and photos on the website not only showcase his love for Mexico but also offer readers a deeply authentic and engaging perspective.

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Welcome to mexico travel buddy.

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20 Useful Mexico Travel Tips To Know Before Your Trip

This list of Mexico travel tips is mostly for first-time visitors traveling to Mexico, but it can help anyone achieve a safe and worry-free journey.

Mexico is huge. Even though my itinerary allowed me to explore just a tiny percentage of it, I had a blast and feel I had a balanced mix of cities, culture, beaches, and history.

I did quite an extensive research to plan my trip but it was during the trip itself that I learned a lot. This list compiles exactly that. All the things I wish I had known before visiting Mexico .

🇲🇽 Things to know before traveling to Mexico

• Don’t stress out because of safety concerns .
• Go cenote hopping .
• Pay in pesos, not dollars .
• Explore beyond the touristy resorts .
• Don’t underestimate the size of the country .
• It’s not always warm and sunny .
• Indulge on the unique Mexican food .
• Leave your drone at home .
• Know the Mexican bathrooms.
• Plan for the best beach weather .
• Get around by ADO bus .
• Give a chance to Mexico City .
• Go for the street food .
• Be careful when renting a car .
• Explore the ancient ruins .
• Try to avoid tours .
• Learn basic Spanish .
• Connect with locals .
• Avoid the tap water .
• Stay connected with a Telcel SIM card .

1 Don’t stress out because of safety concerns

Mexico has an awful reputation on media, from drug cartel violence to missing women in the metro. Not to say these things don’t exist.

However, most of these things happen in areas that you’re unlikely to visit. This is true even inside the cities. In Mexico City , the central areas are safe and most of the crime is concentrated in the suburbs. If you follow these safety tips in CDMX , you’ll be fine.

Mexico is in general very safe, with very welcoming people.

Remember roughly 40 MILLIONS of people visit Mexico every year and violence against tourists is rare. The main crime travelers may encounter is petty theft. Be aware of your belongings at all times, particularly in crowded places.

2 Go cenote hopping

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) on Mar 3, 2019 at 1:07pm PST

I had never heard of cenotes before coming to Mexico and I learned that is so easy to become obsessed with them. Cenotes are cave-like sinkholes or natural swimming holes that can be found all across the Yucatán peninsula.

Some look like underground caves. Others are more like an underground swimming pool. Others are just like a giant open-air pit. They’re very diverse so try to visit at least two or three of them.

The Mayas believed these were sacred portals to the underworld; while this may not be necessarily true, they feel indeed magical.

There are over 6,000 different cenotes in Yucatán , here are some of the most beautiful.

• Cenote Dos Ojos in Tulum
• Cenote Samulá in Valladolid
• Cenote Zaci in Valladolid
• Cenote Ik-Kil in Chichen Itza
• Cenote Azuk in Tulum
• Cenote Suytun in Valladolid
• Cenote Xkeken in Valladolid
• Gran Cenote in Tulum

3 Pay in pesos, not dollars

In some places, especially the touristy hotspots like Playa Del Carmen , it’s technically possible to pay in U.S. Dollars (USD).

However, you’ll get a much better deal paying in pesos because places can choose the exchange rate. When you get to Mexico, take money out of an ATM (never use exchange bureaus!) and make sure you always have pesos with you throughout your trip.

If possible, use Revolut to pay even less fees.

4 Explore beyond the touristy resorts

This is one of the key travel tips in Mexico, guys.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with planning some days at the beach in Riviera Maya – they are well-deserved after touring the country! – but settling for the typical resort all-inclusive vacation in Mexico is almost offensive to the rest of the country.

Personally, the idea of booking a trip to stay at a megaresort in Cancún with some seldom guided tours to explore where locals live is my idea of Mexican vacation hell. All you’ll be seeing is other tourists.

Mexico is a HUGE country with plenty of other destinations you can explore . I skipped Cancún and Playa del Carmen all together for my itinerary and added more authentic colonial towns like Valladolid or Mérida to understand better its amazing sub-cultures.

5 Don’t underestimate the size of the country

In case you haven’t noticed, Mexico is an absolute beast of the country. Spreading out for an area of almost 2 million km² (!) is has more than 130 million people. More than 20 million of them in Mexico City’s metropolitan area, which is also the largest city in the Western Hemisphere.

Getting from point A to point B always takes longer than you expect. Plan accordingly and don’t hop city to city in the least amount of time possible. A key Mexico travel tip (that is universal): slow travel is your friend.

6 It’s not always warm and sunny

Because the country is so big, weather changes considerably from region to region.

In general, the best time to visit Mexico is between December and April. But while may experience some chilly nights in Mexico City as it corresponds to the peak winter season in the Northern Hemisphere. Bring your jacket!

That said, in December and January while is perfect beach weather in Riviera Maya , in places like Tulum or Playa del Carmen . The hurricane season has passed and despite being the “coolest months”, temperatures can still reach averages of 28 degrees Celsius in some places.

7 Indulge on the unique Mexican food

Forget any diets when coming to Mexico because let’s face it, Mexican food is FREAKING DELICIOUS. Not always the healthiest, not always respecting the 5-a-day rule, but you’ve got time to recover after your trip.

And there’s much more than just tacos , nachos , and guacamole (which is actually not that common!). Each region in Mexico boasts a different sub-culture and that is represented through food as well. In Yucatán for instance, you’ll find a whole new version of Mexican food with origin in the Mayas and that includes chaya , sopa de lima and the popular conchinita pibil .

I suggest indulging as much as you can in the local food and if possible, take a cooking class to properly experience this unique cuisine.

Dishes you need to try in Mexico 🌮

• 🌮 Cochinita pibil: a Yucatan dish consisting of marinated meat wrapped in spices and banana leaves, usually suckling pig.
• 🌮 Chilaquiles : the ultimate breakfast food made with fried tortilla strips simmered in a green or red salsa and usually topped with eggs, cheese, beans, meat or all of the above.
• 🌮 Enchiladas : tortillas filled wth meat, cheese, beans, vegetable or seafood and covered in a chili sauce.
• 🌮 Gorditas : similar to Venezeluan arepas , this is a type of pastry made with masa , stuffed with cheese, meat, or other fillings and served usually fried. It’s not a coincidence they loosely translate as “little fatty ones” though…
• 🌮 Sopa de lima : a lime-infused chicken soup with pieces of fried tortillas .
• 🌮 Tacos al pastor : Mexico City’s favorite tacos, these are meat tacos sliced off a spit and served with coriander and pineapple.
• 🌮 Quesadillas : tortilla filled primarily with cheese, meats, vegetables and/or beans and then cooked on a griddle.

8 Leave your drone at home

If you have a drone and are anything like me, you dream of taking some aerial shots of the eye-catchy Tulum beaches, cenotes or ancient ruins in the forest.

First of all, flying over archaeological sites like Uxmal or Chichen Itza is strictly forbidden.

And it gets worse. A recent law explicitly says that 1) you have to be a Mexican citizen to fly a drone in Mexico 2) it has to be registered. Legally, they’re able to confiscate your drone when you enter or leave the country.

Whether they enforce this or not, is questionable, but I didn’t want to risk it.

9 Know the Mexican bathrooms

OK, so let’s talk bathrooms.

The first thing to know is that the door with an “M” IS FOR WOMEN. M is for mujeres ! Even after living in Barcelona for years, I may or may not entered the women bathroom by mistake more than once.

After you have done your business, you’ll likely find a basket next to the toilet. This means the place is not connected to the public sewage so flushing your toilet paper can cause clogs. Deposit your used toilet paper in the basket.

10 Plan for the best beach weather

If you’re planning to spend some time at the pristine Mexican beaches, there are two main things to consider.

Firstly, watch out for the hurricane season . Between June and November, hurricanes and tropical storms can impact the weather on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Gulf Coast, and even the Pacific coast.

If you decide on taking a vacation during hurricane season – great travel deals to be made, as crowds are fewer – consider purchasing a travel insurance policy . Be fast. Usually, as soon as a storm is named, providers consider it a “foreseeable event” and will not cover in some (or all the) situations.

The other thing to consider are seaweed (aka sargassum or sargasso ). No one wants to arrive at a soft white sand beach and find out it’s entirely covered in a brown-ish stinky seaweed. I learned about this the hard way!

Sargassum season usually runs from April to August, but in recent years there have been reports of “waves” of seaweed arriving off-season. I visited in March and many beaches in Tulum were covered in seaweed! The scale of the sargasso is so big that most hotels and even the government don’t have the means to clean the beaches on a daily basis.

The Sargasso Monitoring Network of Cancún publishes daily reports of the situation on the beaches of the Caribbean coast, based on satellite and drone images, and even photographs of citizens.

If you want to keep your beach time sargasso-free, stay in a place which has staff constantly monitoring and managing the situation in front of the hotel. This is usually the case with high-end hotels and resorts .

11 Get around by ADO bus

Traveling independently through Mexico is easier than you think. While internal flights are affordable, they’re not sustainable and you can use the trip to see a bit more of the countryside.

ADO Buses are surprisingly modern and comfortable and there’s plenty of routes every day connecting all major and minor towns throughout the country.

Oh, they’re ridiculously cheap too. My trip from Valladolid to Tulum costed 110 pesos (less than $6 USD at the time). You can buy tickets online (only some foreign credit cards accepted) or at the nearest terminal de autobuses (bus terminal).

12 Give a chance to Mexico City.

Mexico City is the elephant in the room when it comes to Mexico. People are so formatted to fly directly to Cancún or Acapulco that they overlook this massive, vibrant, culturally interesting metropolis that offers a ton of things to do and see.

Adding it to your trip to Mexico will make it much more diverse and truly feel like a complete overview of this beautiful country. I suggest at least three full days .

13 Go for the street food

Not trying the street food is missing out on a huge cultural part of any country.

In that department, Mexico is a respectable competitor to Vietnam , where I tasted the best street food ever.

Pay attention to how they wash the utensils, if the meat is well cooked and if the food has been sitting in the sun for too long. If you’re unsure, start with small snacks before moving to full meals.

The best tip though is to head for the stalls where locals queue up the most. Or just ask a local for recommendations!

14 Be careful when renting a car

Frankly, I rarely trust car rental companies, because they’re full of scams and tricks to make you pay more.

In Mexico, it’s common to see car rental companies advertising rentals as cheap as $1 a day. I myself believed them for a brief moment when looking to rent a car in Mérida . But after emailing the company in advance – that you should definitely do too! – I was then quoted the final price: roughly $200!

When reading it up online, it’s common for agents to force you to take crazy expensive insurance when you pick up the car. Mexico requires drivers to prove they have insurance if there is a serious accident.

Common sense applies here. If a deal is too good to be true, it’s probably because it’s not.

15 Explore the ancient ruins

If there’s a country that will please any history buffs, it’s Mexico. Before the conquistadores arrive at the country in the 16th century – a devastating yet fascinating tale by itself – the country was Mayan and Aztec territory.

This incredible rich history still shows through its culture and food, which is particularly evident in the Yucatán region. Throughout the country, there are various imponent archaeological sites and ruins worth to visit. The most popular by far is Chichen Itza , but many say it’s overrated, overpriced, and overcrowded compared to other options.

• Chichen Itza close to Valladolid
• Cholula Pyramid close to Puebla
• Coba close to Tulum
• Ek Balam close to Valladolid
• Templo Mayor in Mexico City
• Teotihuacán close to Mexico City
• Tulum Ruins in Tulum
• Uxmal close to Mérida

16 Try to avoid tours

If you book a trip to Cancun or Playa del Carmen and hope to see the rest of the country booking guided tours, you’re set to see nothing but other tourists the entire time. Where is the fun in that?

Quite frankly, you’re much better off going off the beaten path. Explore the local, beautiful, authentic Mexico. Give yourself a chance to immerse in the local culture, with no deadlines or time restrictions. Your travel experience will greatly increase.

Personally, I don’t book tours unless it’s mandatory or it’s a cooking class. In Mexico, I used a 100% independent itinerary .

17 Learn basic Spanish

Mexico are used to have English-speaking tourists, but especially in smaller towns, it’s always good to master some Spanish words and expressions. It will both help connect with locals – only a small percentage of them speak fluent English – but you’re guaranteed to get a smile in return.

Basic Spanish words and expressions for travelers 🗣

• 🗣 Hello – Hola
• 🗣 Thank you – Gracias/Muchas gracias
• 🗣 Excuse me/Sorry – Perdón
• 🗣 What’s your name? – Como se llama usted?
• 🗣 My name is… – Mi nombre es…

18 Connect with locals.

Honestly, the landscapes are beautiful, the history is fascinating, the food is delicious, but the Mexican people are a whole another level.

No matter what magnates with an orange face and crappy hair tell you, Mexicans are lively, friendly happy, with a constant smile on their faces that is contagious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make some joyful comments, and join the party whenever there’s one. They’ll win you over. A bit of Spanish can be helpful though.

19 Avoid the tap water

It’s generally a good idea to avoid tap water in Mexico. This obviously includes ice cubes in drinks and juices. If anything, in restaurants ask for agua del filtro .

Bring a bottle of water and reuse it when you find a agua filtrada (filtered water) or just bring a water purifier that filters the waer form the tap. Win for you, win for the environment.

20 Stay connected with a Telcel SIM card

More and more, I feel getting access to Internet abroad is important. Not to check your like count on Instagram or Facetime your friends, but to know where you are and research what’s around you.

While WiFi is available in malls, restaurants, and hotels, it’s a good idea to get a SIM card.

If you have a phone with eSIM capability – e.g. the new iPhones – you can purchase a virtual SIM card from Airalo (use BRUN03584 code for $3 credit!) and get immediately connected.

Otherwise, just head to a local OXXO store and ask for a physical TelCel SIM card. You can also get them in official Telcel stores. To save some money, you can use only one card and share the internet through a mobile WiFi router.

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

Put any SIM card in the world inside and it will share the data across all your devices via WiFi (up to 10!). The battery lasts 12 hours of working. Can’t recommend it enough!

Do you have more Mexico travel tips? What other things we should know? Let me know about your experience.

You might also like these articles 💬

3 Days in Mexico City: Full Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

A First-Time Mexico Itinerary For a 100% Independent Trip

Valladolid, Mexico: A Complete Travel Guide

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10 comments 💬

Article was very helpful! Thank you

I noticed a few mistakes, But hey! everyone make mistakes, right?? I’m starting to make my own guides and tips too. Its not easy! Good job!

It’s “cost” not “costed”. Other than that, great article on my birthplace.

YOU ARE SO DUMB!!!!!

And you are being unnecessarily rude.

Okay. Glad you put out of your system.

Great guide. Especially agree with tips #5 and #6 – just because the country is depicted as a hot paradise, is not always the case!! Also rainfall and storms can be an issue in coastal areas, especially around the summer months.

Mexico is a bit deceiving in terms of weather, it’s definitely not clear and sunny all the time!

Love your article…please share more of your travels abroad. Will follow you!

Thank you Cheryl, will do! 🙂

Destinations🌎

Top 33 Tips for Traveling to Mexico to Know Before you Go

Posted on Last updated: February 7, 2024

Traveling to Mexico soon? Here are all the tips for traveling to Mexico that will be vital to know in order to make the most of your trip and have a great, hassle-free time.

Mexico is a massive country full of more different landscapes than most people know about. You may think of beaches and margaritas, but there’s so much more to Mexico than that. It’s got a beautiful culture, delicious cuisine, wonderful sights, and some cultural intricacies that are important to know about before you go.

I have been visiting Mexico since I was young (as I am from California) and have lived there and traveled through quite a lot of it as well. During this time, I have gotten to know some of the most important things to know before traveling to Mexico that ensures a good, safe experience (sometimes the hard way). Take notes on the top tips for Mexico below!

All the photos in this post are my own 🙂

Mexico Travel Tips

Before getting to the main tips, I have a lot more content about Mexico. If you are traveling to any of the areas below (mostly Qintana Roo) these articles can provide some valuable tips for your trip!

• Best Areas to Stay in Tulum + Neighborhoods
• Taking the Ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel
• Unique Places to Stay in Cozumel
• Unique Things to do in Playa del Carmen

Safety Tips for Traveling to Mexico: Know Your Destination Safety + Use Common Sense, But Mexico is Safer Than Many Think

To travel to Mexico safely, it is important to be vigilant and aware of safety tips for Mexico as a whole and also specific to your destination, as safety can differ a lot in different states.

My main tip is to always be vigilant in Mexico and use your common sense. Sure, Mexico is safer than a lot of people think, but that doesn’t mean that the unexpected can’t happen (I can personally attest to that). Don’t take any chances in Mexico and always err on the side of caution. When in doubt, don’t do it.

Destination Safety in Mexico

Make sure to look up your specific destination in Mexico and any travel tips for it, as each one can be different and some parts of Mexico are more corrupt than others and some are super safe without many problems at all.

One place I can definitely comment on the safety of is Quintana Roo/Tulum. I lived in Tulum for 6 months and experienced more corruption there than anywhere in my life out of 75 countries, but not everyone had the same experience. As I mentioned before, erring on the side of caution is essential here. Read more about safety in Tulum here.

Visit a Pueblo Magico

Mexico has an award system for towns of particularly significant cultural, historical, architectural, or simply mystical character, and this award is called being named a ‘Pueblo Magico.” There are over 120 pueblos magicos, which directly translates to magic towns.

Each Pueblo Magico is called one for a different reason, but they all truly are magical! Try to visit at least one Pueblo Magico during your trip to immerse yourself in some authentic Mexican charm. Here is a list of Pueblos Magicos.

Know Basic Spanish Phrases

One of the most obvious Mexico travel tips is to know some basic Spanish before you go, or keep learning as you travel! Many people speak English in Mexico, but many people don’t speak a single word… even in some turisty areas.

Knowing basic Spanish here will get you a long way and make things so much easier. So before your trip, learn a little Spanish and at least learn how to ask for a beer and the bathroom!

Mexico is NOT Always HOT: Know Your Destination Weather + Time Of Year

People tend to think of Mexico as synonymous with beaches, bikinis, sunshine, and heat. But as I keep mentioning, Mexico is HUGE and has a MASSIVE variety of climates, elevations, and temperatures.

Mexico has some incredible mountainous regions, and Mexico City is actually at quite a high elevation so tends to be cooler. This should be obvious, but check the weather before you go as it might not be as scorching as you expect.

Money Tips for Traveling to Mexico: Pay with Pesos (Not Dollars) and Always Have Cash On You/Small Change

One of the best tips for traveling to Mexico is to pay with pesos instead of dollars, and to always have cash on you. There are a few reasons for this.

The currency is obviously pesos in Mexico, but in many touristy places will accept or even encourage payment in dollars. This is only because they assume you are stupid (or are not doing the math) and are giving you a terrible exchange rate. Paying in the local currency of pesos can save you money.

Secondly, it’s important to try and keep the smallest change possible on you at all times. This is because many taxi drivers, market vendors, etc will not have change and will end up overcharging you if you don’t have smaller notes. So keep in mind to break bills when you can and use bank ATM’s when you see them.

ATM Tips for Traveling to Mexico: Use Bank ATMs + Don’t Go on Paydays

Continuing from money tips for traveling to Mexico, there are some important things to know before using Mexican ATM’s.

First of all, make sure to only use BANK ATM’s. Don’t use any tiny street ATM’s if you can help it as these almost always charge too much to use. Try and use an ATM attached to an actual bank if you can as these will have much fairer exchange rates and fees.

Next, to avoid lines, keep in mind that pay day in most of Mexico is the end of the month (last/first day of the month) and the 15th. ATM’s might have long lines on these days which could hold you back if you were not prepared for it.

Travel Beyond JUST The Beach Resorts in Mexico

I know it’s tempting to remain at all-inclusive resort the whole time in Mexico, and those definitely have their time and place. I mean, who doesn’t love unlimited food, drinks, and entertainment? But one of my biggest Mexico travel tips is to make sure to travel beyond just the beach resorts, as this country has so much more to offer!

Head outside the beach resort to try some street food, wander through a local market, try a culinary tour in the Riviera Nayarit , visit the downtown areas or pop into a local bar playing mariachi. These things are what the authentic Mexico travel experience is about.

Grab a Mexican SIM Card (Telcel is Best) Or Make Sure to Have Int’l Data

To have the best experience traveling in Mexico, it’s important to have cell phone data at all times! This is of course to post pics and stories of the great time you are having, but also for safety reasons.

There are a few ways to make sure to have data in Mexico. The most obvious is to grab a local sim card when you arrive (they have phone stores at the airports and in all towns) to connect to the local networks. Most people prefer Telcel. Secondly, you can ensure that your phone company provides international data or pay for a special package that includes Mexico for the duration of your trip.

Tipping is Customary: 10-15%

You must respect local customs when in Mexico, and one of those customs is tipping. Yes, it’s true, tipping is customary in Mexico but just not as much as the USA. It is standard to tip at least 10% on top of any bill at a restaurant or bar in most of Mexico.

Have Travel Insurance

Despite being mostly safe, it’s very important in Mexico to protect yourself against the possibility of anything bad happening. One of the most important tips for traveling to Mexico is having travel insurance. Travel insurance saved our butts during some ordeals in Tulum, and it’s always better to have peace of mind.

We use Heymondo travel insurance and have used them for years. They insure for a lot of outdoor activities and even have adventure sports add-ons and equipment coverage. You can read more about Heymondo in our review here.

Dont Drink Tap Water

Tap water in Mexico is generally not safe to drink, so to be safe don’t drink it anywhere. Get used to not drinking from the tap or shower during your trip here. Brushing your teeth with the tap water is usually okay but I never do it just in case.

But Greens and Ice are Okay

You may be happy to learn that most ice in Mexico is made from purified water, and that most greens are washed with good water too. It’s actually quite outdated Mexico advice to refrain from ice in drinks or veggies as they may be washed with tap water.

Locals and visitors alike do not want to get sick from the tap water, so all restaurants will have safe ice and greens, and many street vendors will also. If you are worried, just ask, or check the share of the ice to see if it may have come from a supermarket bag of purified ice.

Many Mexican Museums are Closed on Mondays

It’s important to factor into your plans/itinerary that many museums are closed on Mondays all over Mexico and especially in Mexico City. This is the day that museums and many attractions and even parks close for maintenance and other things like simply time off for workers. Museums will be open most weekends.

Haggle Only at Markets (Mexico isn’t known for haggling)

Many say that Mexico isn’t known for haggling, but I would partially disagree. I have haggled my absolute life away at more Mexican markets and street vendor areas than I can count, and this is completely normal to do as most of these will start by trying to overcharge you.

Haggling isn not normal per se in most aspects of Mexican life such as street food and shops, but at markets when buying souvenirs and trinkets, it’s fair game.

Dont Flaunt Expensive Items

One of the biggest safety tips for Mexico to be extra vigilant is to make sure not to flaunt any of your expensive jewelry, cameras, clothing, or other items while walking on the street.

This is not to say that you will be robbed or mugged if you do, but if you don;t flauny anything, it greatly reduces the chances of anything bad happening to you. So to err on the side of caution, just don’t do it.

I know this is hard for cameras when you are trying to take photos of your trip, but my main tip for carrying a camera is to also wear a scarf you can put over the camera or a big bagon the same shoulder.

Toilet Tips for Traveling to Mexico: Womens Bathrooms have M/D and Men have H/C.

One of the most hilarious Mexico travel tips is to know what letter will be on the toilet before you go, to avoid any uncomfortable or awkward situations!

Womens bathrooms have ‘M’ or ‘D’ on the door which means mujeres or damas. Men’s toilets have ‘H’ or ‘C’ which means hombres or caballeros. You can see how easy it would be to confuse this if you are coming from an English speaking country… and how many Men would walk through the ‘M’ door not thinking that it means Mujer.

Don’t Flush Toilet Paper + Keep change on you for Toilets

In most of Mexico it is not customary to flush toilet paper down the toilet, which can be hard to remember if coming from any country where you do. There will aways be a big trash can to place used toilet paper so they don;t clog up toilet systems that were not built to withstand toilet paper like they are in the US. To avoid more awkward bathroom situations, make sure to throw your toilet paper in the bin.

Another Toilet tip for Mexico is to keep change on you because many bus station or public toilets will cost money. As I said above, try and always have small change on you if at all possible.

Use a VPN to Protect Your Info

VPN ‘s are a good idea to use while traveling in any country, Mexico included. To keep your info safe no matter if you are working from a cafe in Sayulita or an airbnb in Puerto Escondido, you wont have to worry.

Don’t Lose the Paper Slip from Customs (FMM) Ad You Will Need it to Leave Mexico!

When you enter Mexico, they give you a slip of paper. This slip is called the FMM , and while it would be super easy to toss it in the bin once you arrive safely, DO NOT DO THIS! Mexico is one of the only countries where you must exit with the same form you entered on. Losing this form can create problems, so keep it with your passport or somewhere else safe.

At the end of 2022 it was announced that there are new plans to eliminate this form with changes to the entry procedures, which would be awesome. But depending on when you enter Mexico, if they give you a paper, just don’t lose it.

Use Public Transport: ADO Busses for Longer Distances + Local Collectivos

You can save tons of money in Mexico by taking busses and public transport.

ADO is a long-distance bus line that runs routes between main points of interest in Mexico. Most main cities and towns have a bus station, and ADO busses cover literally the entire country. You can book some online or head to the bus station to ask about your routes, from hopping to the next town in a state to crossing the entire country.

For more local transport, you might want to look into learning how to use collectivos . Collectivos are white minubusses that serve as public transport ALL OVER Mexico. They are very informal and nearly always packed, but they only cost a couple of pesos. They run in routes with a number like normal busses (although they may detour from time to time).

Once you arrive at your destination in Mexico, ask someone or try and figure out the different collectivos running in the area and see if you can jump on to get where you are going. This would be an important situation to know some spanish, but it could save you won’t on taxis especially in places like Tulum.

Mexico is Bigger Than you Think: Consider Domestic Flights for Longer Distances

If you can’t get there on a collective or ADO bus (or if the ride is 12+ hours) Mexico does have some reputable airlines. As I have said many times, this country is SO much bigger than many imagine; in fact, it’s the 14th largest country in the world.

It may seem natural to plan a trip to some of Mexicos hotspots such as Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, Cancun, and Oaxaca, in one trip, but the reality is that all of these places are 12+ hours apart. Check Skyscanner for domestic flights to save lots of driving (and potential roadblock) time.

Beware of Rental Scams: Rent Cars with a Reputable Company

Sadly car rental scams do happen all over Mexico and a lot in the Yucatan area. Most of the scams involve being obligated to pay for extra ‘insurance’ that doubles, triples, or quadruples the quoted cost. They have also gotten creative in Tulum where they will tow your car from the beach area (in conjunction with the rental company) and charge you LOTS to get it back.

Read some tips and rental scam details here to ensure that nothing like this happens to you!

Travel to Different Regions + Try Different Regional Cuisines

For the third time, Mexico is SO MUCH MORE than Cancun, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta. Those resort-y places are nice, of course, but consider visiting some of Mexico’s incredible mountains, grottos, jungles, ancient historic sites, and even deserts. The country covers a lot of ground, and within it are lots of landscapes to see and foods to try.

Did you know that there are seven regions of Mexican cuisine ? That’s right, it’s not all tacos and quesadillas but different regions have different gastronomic delights for you to try.

Try Street Food, But Visit Places with Long Lines, Wearing Gloves, or Taxis Nearby

My next Mexico travel tip is to try street food, and the very next tip after that is to choose your street food wisely.

Street food is an integral part of Mexican culture and how locals eat all over the country. But one of the things to know before going to Mexico is how to choose street food wisely. Generally the best Mexican street food spots are:

• The ones that are the most crowded : these are trusted locally by many people, therefore, generally trustworthy for you too.
• Street food stalls where workers are wearing gloves, hair nets, etc : if you spot gloves or other food safety items like aprons or hair nets, you know that the place takes cleanliness seriously. Green flag.
• There are taxis nearby : This is an interesting but true thing you will notice. Taxi drivers need to eat too, and if there is a concentration of taxis around a certain street food stall, it’s another great way to know it’s trusted by locals.

Use Uber if Possible OR Agree on Taxi Fare Before you Leave

Some places in Mexico have uber, and others do not. When looking to get around, first try and take uber or any other taxi app if it is available (and this is true all over the world). Uber/taxi apps sets a fair price for you BEFORE you ride so you have no hidden costs or stresses.

Taxi drivers around Mexico will definitely try to overcharge you if they can. The best way to combat this is to agree on a fair fare before you sit down. Look up online what a normal fare would be, or you can always compare the fare to what the uber app suggests if it is available.

Get Used to Waiting + Have Patience; Mexico Has its Own Time

Mexico is not one of those countries like Japan or Germany that are meticulously on time. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. If you have ever heard of the term ‘island time,’ Mexico is something like that. Things happen when they happen, and that’s all you need to know.

This is a country that requires a lot of patience to travel through. Food won’t always be fast, busses won’t always be on time, and sometimes tours will take a little longer than expected. But if you know this before your trip, it can;t stress you out. It’s Mexico time.

Always Chat with Locals

The best way to have a more authentic experience when traveling in Mexico or anywhere in the world is to connect with locals. And in Mexico, locals are generally very friendly and open and happy to have a chat, especially if you practice your spanish.

Chatting with locals can truly give you a different perspective on your destination that you cannot get in a big resort or cruise ship. It’s always more fulfilling to understand more about how life really is in your destination through a local’s point of view and making new friendships.

You May Need Mosquito Repellant + Cream

Mexico has a very varied landscape, but a LOT of it is prone to mosquitos. If you will be near any jungles or many beaches, these little buzzing bloodsuckers might become your worst enemy. Make sure to have mosquito repellant just in case, and to have it on you at all times especially at sunrise and sunset.

There are many natural mosquito repellants that use lemongrass oil, or you can opt for a high deet product like OFF to be extra sure the mozzies will be warded off. But for any times you forgot repellant, you will NOT regret having a bite relief stick . These have saves me from an itchy death a few times.

Prepare for Sun with Sunscreen, Hats, and Sunglasses

I know I said Mexico isn’t always hot, but oftentimes, it is. If you are traveling to one of Mexico’s warmer destiantions or beaches, make sure to plan ahead and pack for it as the sun can be scorching.

Don’t leave home without sun protection in every form possible. Bring a high spf sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, cover-ups, and anything else to protect your body from the sun… when you aren’t sunbathing, that is!

Mexicans Dress More Conservatively

Something that is important to note is that, in general, Mexican people dress more conservatively. Keep this in mind when walking through cities/towns and local villages that may not be used to scantily clad tourists rampaging through their town.

If you are planning to be in any local areas (and even touristy areas to be more respectful of the culture), bring something to cover up a bit more.

Pretty Much Everywhere Has Good Wifi

Mexico is a fabulous digital nomad destination in that pretty much all main hubs have fantastic wifi. So one of the things to know before going to Mexico is that you most likely will not have to worry about finding good wifi, because it will be available in most hotels, cafes, apartments, and restaurants.

Know Which Plugs/Adaptors to Use

Depending on where you are coming from, you may not need an adaptor in Mexico. Mexico has the same plugs as the USA – type A and B – which means two parallel prongs with or without a third grounding prong.

Make sure to grab a travel adaptor – one of my biggest travel essentials – beforehand if coming from Europe, Australia, or other destinations.

Many Places Stop Selling Alcohol after a Certain Time

If you are heading to Mexico and plan to do a bit of partying, something that you will definitely want to know before traveling to Mexico is that in many states alcohol sales stop after a certain hour . Alcohol can be sold in many states 24 hours a day, but sales stop between 12 and 6am in states like Quintana Roo.

That’s it for my Tips for Traveling to Mexico! Let me know how your trip went in the comments, if any of these tips helped you, and if I should include any more!

More Mexico:

• Unique Places to Stay in Tulum
• Best Beachfront Airbnbs in Tulum
• Tulum Treehouse Rentals
• Boutique Hotels Playa del Carmen

Privacy Overview

50 Best Tips for Mexico Travel: Advice from a Local in 2024

Need some great Mexico travel tips? 

You’ve come to the right place because I live in Mexico , and also because the 50 best tips for travel are all right here!

By the end of this article, you’ll discover all the tips for traveling to Mexico that will make your trip smoother, safer and more enjoyable.

After living in Mexico, and traveling to half the states in the country, the 50 useful Mexico travel tips you’ll find in this article are the ones I wish I knew before traveling to Mexico!

Here, you’ll find out everything from Mexico travel safety tips, how to pick the best street food when visiting Mexico, packing tips for Mexico — and, basically, all the things to know when traveling to Mexico.

Ready to find out the Top 50 travel in Mexico tips? Let’s get to this Ultimate Travel Guide to Mexico, so you can have the best vacation ever! (Looking for tips about traveling to Mexico during Covid? Head here .)

General Travel Tips in Mexico

1. don’t drink the water in mexico.

Can you drink the water in Mexico? is one of my most-asked questions (it comes after Is Mexico Safe? ).

If there are any travel tips to Mexico that you must be very clear on, it’s this one.

Mexico water is not safe to drink — and you can’t drink the water in Mexico that comes from the tap unless you boil it.

Put simply, the tap water in Mexico is not safe for human consumption. No one drinks it — not locals, not Mexico expats (like me), and not travelers (like you).

Now, if you take the time to boil it, you can then safely consume Mexico water. However, the easier option is simply to buy bottled water and purified water.

Unfortunately, not all purified and bottled water is created equal. Because of this, one of the things you’ll want to include on your Mexico packing list is this Water-To-Go Filterable Water Bottle (see below).

OUR TOP PICK

💧 Filterable Water Bottle

Water-To-Go Bottles filter your drinking water so you don’t get sick in Mexico — and keep you hydrated. It’s a win-win!

With this Water-To-Go Bottle , you’re not only practicing sustainable and responsible tourism in Mexico by not constantly buying single-use plastic water bottles, but these bottles also filter your drinking water.

They have a built-in, three-stage filter that filters automatically.

“Water-To-Go bottles filter 99.99999% of water-borne contaminants including bacteria, parasites, toxins, chemicals, microplastics and heavy metals,” according to their website .

This is your best line of defense so you don’t get sick in Mexico from the water.

🩺 Need more tips to help you avoid getting sick? Head to How to NOT Get Sick in Mexico: 10 Tips You Need .

Best Tips for Mexico Travel

2. get mexico travel insurance.

If there’s one thing certain of all Mexico trips and vacations anywhere in the world, it’s that something will not go according to plan!

That’s not meant to scare you — just the opposite . It’s actually meant to make you think about these things and prepare for them before you need to when it’s already too late!

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

As you came to this article for travel tips, Mexico travel insurance is up there with the most important of all tips for Mexico travelers (and all travelers).

🏆 Best Travel Insurance for Mexico

What is the best travel insurance for Mexico ? — This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat!

I only ever recommend three companies to purchase travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — Perfect for general travelers and adventure travelers
• SafetyWing — Perfect for digital nomads in Mexico who will stay long-term
• Travel Insurance Master — Best Mexico travel insurance search tool

🚗💨 If you plan on renting a car in Mexico , you have the option to add in car insurance on the Explorer Plan with World Nomads. This often ends up being cheaper buying it from the car rental companies.

3. Double check the weather reports

Mexico is a huge country; the 14th largest country on Earth, actually.

While many head to the country to visit the best beaches in Mexico , those visiting inland cities will encounter colder climates so do check the forecasts — one of the most important things to know about Mexico before you go!

In fact, one of the best travel tips for Mexico City specifically, is to pack layers. Temperatures can fluctuate from 80°F (26°C) during the day to 45°F (7°C) at night in winter, so layers help.

🧳 Head here for more Mexico City packing tips ! Need outfit inspo? Check out Cute Outfits for Mexico Vacation: What to Wear in Mexico .

4. Protect your data with a VPN

🤔 What is a VPN?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network , is fast becoming a travel essential to prevent theft of your online and personal information.

To prevent yourself from being a victim of cyber attacks, NordVPN is a trusted name in VPNs.

🤔 how does a VPN work?

VPNs basically allow you to create a secure connection over a shared connection.

When you’re using free coffee shop WiFi, for example, you’re digitally connected to all the other people in that cafe on that same shared network.

🚨 Since you’re on free, shared WiFi more when traveling than at home — you’re also more prone to nefarious attacks.

Being on an open network means others have relatively easy access to your information.

In a worse case scenario, someone can steal your passwords, debit card and credit card info, travel itinerary, and other private things on any device you connect from: phone, laptop and tablet.

This is where the VPN comes in.

The VPN disguises your connection, so your information is essentially invisible to anyone looking to do anything nefarious.

I recommend purchasing NordVPN , one of the biggest names and most-used VPNs, to keep your data safe while traveling.

5. Mexico museums are closed Mondays

By and large, all museums are closed on Mondays in Mexico.

Some of the best things to do in Mexico on a Monday is visit the archeological sites and ruins in Mexico (like Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan ). Those place will be open, while museums will be closed.

Besides museums , some restaurants, boutique shops and more are also closed Mondays, so double check specific places before making plans for your Mondays in Mexico.

6. Get a Telcel Mexico SIM Card

One of the Mexico tips travelers will want to really consider before their trip is having use of your cell phone. For a deep dive into this topic, check out SIM Card Mexico: 5 Reasons You Need to Buy One .

• 2GB Cellular Data (at full 4G/LTE speeds) valid for 26 days starting at your arrival in Mexico
• Unlimited Calls and SMS (only text) in Mexico, USA or Canada
• Can also be used in USA and Canada for Data, Calls and SMS
• Unlimited Social networks (Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapshat)
• LTE capable (LTE Coverage is available in most cities and touristic areas)

While in many other countries, you can get by with just jumping on free WiFi in parks, cafes and public spaces, Mexico simply isn’t there (yet).

Telcel is Mexico’s largest cell service provider, and a Telcel SIM Card will provide you the best coverage in most parts of Mexico.

You can buy one in whatever amount of data you think you’ll use — but just don’t skip getting one! Having data for an emergency is a key way to safely travel in Mexico .

For reference, if you’re using data often but still sparingly, a 3gb Mexico SIM card will last a week or longer.

7. Buy tickets in advance

If there is something on your Must See Mexico bucket list , purchase tickets in advance so you don’t miss out.

While there are certain things that generally sell out each day, like the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City , some tours also require a minimum number of people to go.

This means the earlier you buy, the sooner the tour operator knows they are closer to hitting their quota. ▶ For tours in Mexico, I recommend Airbnb Experiences and Viator .

8. Don’t lose your FMM Card

Wondering, Do I need a visa for Mexico?

No — Passport holders from the United States, Canada, Japan and the Schengen countries (which includes most Europeans) don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico.

Coming from another country? Check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

For those who don’t need a Mexico visa, there is one piece of paperwork you need to know about: The FMM.

🤔 What is a Mexico FMM?

When you arrive and go through Immigration, you’ll submit your Forma Migratoria Multiple . This is abbreviated as FMM (sometimes as FMT), and you’ll either get one on the plane or in the airport once you land.

As you clear Immigration, the officer will remove the bottom one-third of the form and give it back to you. This is your 180-day (6 month) FMM Tourist Card.

The FMM is a five-inch by five-inch piece of paper you must have on you at all times while traveling Mexico.

🚨 Don’t lose your FMM

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as it proves you’re in the country legally. Also, you’ll need to give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country.

Without returning your FMM, you can’t leave the country!

If you lost your FMM, plan to arrive to the airport one hour earlier than normal as you’ll need to fill out some paperwork. You’ll also have to pay the $600 pesos ($30 USD) fine for a new one.

🗣 2022 Update about FMM Mexico Visas

Some airports have stopped issuing FMMs, and now just use a passport stamp.

9. Get permission before taking photos

Before taking photos of people (especially children), artwork where the artist is present, items for sale in mercados (markets), etc., make sure you get permission from the person or vendor before taking a photo.

10. Bring earplugs (Mexico is loud)

Mexico is a fun, festive country, which also means it can be loud! This goes for all parts of the country, and especially in big cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara .

It’s not uncommon for tamale vendors to walk up and down the streets starting at 7am screaming to anyone who wants to buy breakfast.

Beyond food vendors, there’s a Mexico holiday at least once or twice a month, and with holidays, come late-night fireworks.

You probably get the idea by now, but know that if you’re a light (or even medium) sleeper, you’ll want some good noise canceling ear plugs for Mexico.

🎧 Another option are these noise canceling earbuds — which have 26,000+ positive reviews on Amazon. If you don’t have wireless headphones yet, traveling is the best time to upgrade.

11. Don’t just stick to your resort area

This is one of the most common, though misguided , safety tips for traveling to Mexico. Though Mexican resort towns are wonderful, they aren’t the only safe places, and you don’t need to be restricted to your resort.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is yes . Carlos Barron, 25-year FBI veteran (Source: Forbes )

In reality, many experts say Mexico is a safe place for (most) visitors .

As one of the most culturally-rich countries on Earth, you won’t possibly get a real sense of Mexico at an all-inclusive resort.

12. Apply sunscreen daily

Mexico is close to the Equator, so make sure to use sunscreen . This is one of the more useful tips for Mexico all inclusive travel at the beach, but even applies to cities in Mexico cities on cloudy days.

While swimming at the best beaches in Mexico , coral reefs and cenotes , use eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen to practice sustainable tourism in Mexico.

13. Chat with locals for tips

Mexicans are, by and large, very friendly. In fact, Blue Zones says Mexicans are some of the friendliest and happiest people on Earth .

While the internet, Facebook groups, even blogs and YouTube videos can offer you info on wherever you’re travelling in Mexico — there’s nothing better than the advice and tips from a local.

Mexico locals can let you know what to see, what to avoid and maybe even some fun Mexico facts .

14. Learn basic Spanish

This is one of the more important traveling tips for Mexico — brush up on your Spanish before your Mexico trip.

As a visitor, you get more respect and leeway from locals when you at least try to speak Spanish, especially everyday basics and casual niceties.

READY TO LEARN SPANISH? Rocket Spanish will have you confident, and conversational , in just a few modules!

In Mexico’s cities, you’ll find English-speakers, but when venturing off the beaten path in Mexico to smaller towns and pueblos, fewer and fewer people speak English (if any).

Taking the time to learn a few words and phrases in Spanish is a sign of respect, and will help you travel easier.

🗣 In short: Knowing a little Spanish goes a long way! The best online platform for learning fast is Rocket Spanish .

Mexico Solo Travel Safety Tips

15. solo travel in mexico is safe.

You may be wondering about how to travel safely in Mexico — most people are!

On a personal note, I have traveled to half the states in Mexico, most of them as a solo female traveler. I’ve meet plenty of other solo female travelers along the way as well, all who shared positive experiences.

In an effort to add as many other voices to this conversation as possible, I sought out others for this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll hear from 20 women about their first-hand solo travel in Mexico experiences. The list includes personal travel experience in various cities across the country to show the Mexico isn’t as vicious as the media depicts.

On the contrary, there are plenty of statistics out there saying Mexico is safe for solo travelers .

This isn’t to say you’re 100% guaranteed safety when traveling to Mexico — you’re not! However, if you stay aware of yourself and your belongings, you will more than likely be safe in Mexico.

BEST TIPS FOR MEXICO TRAVEL

16. don’t stress over mexico travel safety.

The thing with all travel is, you’re stepping into the unknown. For many, this is why you travel in the first place!

Just as there’s no point in stressing over anything you can’t control, it’s unnecessary to stress yourself out over safe travel in Mexico. Be aware; but don’t stress.

…at the end of the day, personal safety comes down to common sense … Always think of safety and security as something that’s part of your trip. Carlos Barron, 25-year FBI veteran (Source: Forbes )

Statistics show travelers are very safe in Mexico. However, that doesn’t mean travel safety in Mexico is a guarantee. (Actually, it’s not a guarantee anywhere; now even your hometown).

In Mexico, you must remain aware of your surroundings, watch your alcohol intake, stay hydrated, take an Uber home at night, and most importantly, listen to your intuition . Besides that, just focus on enjoying your trip.

🎧 For more info, check out my Mexico podcast called Dream to Destination ! There are several episodes about solo female travel in Mexico, like Episode 40, Tips for Safe Solo Travel in Mexico .

17. Register with the STEP Program

The U.S. offers free travel safety services through the STEP Program to all U.S. citizens traveling abroad. STEP stands for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, and you can read all about it and register here .

In short, STEP lets the closest U.S. Consulate or Embassy to where you’re traveling know where you’ll be staying, for how long and other info about your trip.

In the event of a lost passport, natural disaster or civil unrest, the U.S. government will know how to find you and get you safely back into the U.S.

18. Take a group tour

A common mental image and misconception about solo travel is that you have to be alone all the time. If you want to, you can 😎 However, solo travel really means you’re the solo decider about what you do on your trip.

If there’s somewhere you don’t feel comfortable going as a solo female traveler, take a group tour and let a Mexico travel guide handle the logistics. ▶ For tours in Mexico, I recommend Airbnb Experiences and Viator .

19. Download an offline map

If you read Tip #6 , hopefully you’re now planning to buy your Telcel Mexico SIM Card . 🤔 U nsure if you need a SIM card in Mexico? Head to this article to find out all the reasons you do.

Even with a SIM card, the WiFi signal can go in and out so you’ll want a backup option for maps so you don’t get lost. Two of the best offline maps for Mexico are Google Maps and Maps.me ; both free options.

20. Join online expat groups

Online networking is one of the easiest ways to make friends while traveling solo . To network online, Facebook Groups are a great way to get Mexico travel tips.

While some groups are more helpful (and friendlier) than others, consider joining a few groups for expats in the city or cities you’re visiting.

To find expat groups (expat is short for expatriate), head to Facebook and type “expats in [city name]” in the search.

For big cities like Mexico City, there are several you can join, like Foreigners & Expats in Mexico City (CDMX) and Expat Women in Mexico City .

Mexico Packing Tips

21. mexico packing should be light.

Anyone who’s been on a trip anywhere knows first-hand you only use about 50% of what you pack! Besides this, most places in Mexico do have warm weather year-round, and you won’t be wearing layers of clothes.

The number one name in travel backpacks is Osprey , which you’ll see recommended by travelers more than any other.

While a bit pricey, even long-term travelers and fellow travel bloggers often keep theirs for more than a decade — and then end up buying another Osprey to replace it.

🎒 Need more reasons to pack light for Mexico?

• Older buildings in historic areas often don’t have elevators, so you’ll have to lug your suitcase(s) up and down flights of stairs.
• Cars in Mexico tend to be of the compact size, so you’ll also have to scrabble to cram everything into a tiny Uber or taxi trunk, to then carry it up the stairs in your elevator-less Airbnb.

If you’re considering traveling light or backpacking in Mexico, check out the options above.

For those not quite ready to downsize that far, this Rockland Fashion Luggage Set and these Space Saver Compression Packing Cubes are perfect for you.

22. Mexicans dress conservatively

In general, Mexicans tend to be modest and conservative dressers. In big cities and pueblos (small towns) alike, even when it’s hot outside, jeans and long sleeve shirts are still the norm.

Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Printable Checklist

If you want to blend in, skip shorts and opt for leggings instead. That’s not to say don’t wear shorts; only that if you do, you can draw unwanted attention to yourself as they are uncommon for Mexicans.

This suggestion about shorts doesn’t apply to Mexico beach towns , where shorts are the norm.

However, if you’re headed to one of the beaches in Mexico, don’t be surprised to see both Mexican men and women swimming in a T-shirt and shorts.

23. Leave designer labels at home

This conservatism in dress extends to something many visitors won’t even think about: Designer labels.

To be on the safe side, leave everything flashy at home, and also check out these other great tips on What NOT to Take to Mexico .

👗 Need suggestions on what to wear in Mexico? Check out these best outfits for Mexico vacations .

While a Fendi sweater with logos all over the place might carry little weight in the U.S., in Mexico it may draw unwanted attention.

This same logic also applies to everything from shoes and purses, to sunglasses and high end electronic gadgets.

24. Pack a reusable shopping bag

In 2020, Mexico really began cracking down in major cities and popular tourism destinations with a ban on single use plastic bags.

As more and more pueblos (small towns) follow suit, a reusable shopping bag that folds down into a tiny pouch, is ideal for Mexico travel.

Once folded down into their smallest size, you can clip the bag onto the side of your purse so it’s always ready to fill with colorful Mexico souvenirs from small craft mercados (markets).

Though they fold down small, you’d be surprised how much you can store per bag.

25. Bring a sun hat

Since Mexico is so close to the Equator, you’ll likely feel hotter even if the temperatures don’t seem elevated.

One of the easiest ways to stay cool is by wearing a fashionable sun hat — which isn’t just one of the tips for traveling to Mexico all-inclusive, but a tip that comes in handy in cities also.

26. Opt for flats over heels and wedges

First off: If you’re planning on climbing Mayan Ruins in Mexico , you’ll definitely need comfy footwear.

Second: Mexico’s cute cobblestone streets and city sidewalks aren’t the easiest to walk on — especially in older historic areas. You’ll need to pay more attention to the ground when you’re walking than what you might be used to.

For your own safety, comfort and ease of walking, you’ll want to opt for flats over heels or even wedges. Since you’ll likely be walking a lot, even consider using massaging gel shoe inserts so you don’t get blisters.

If you are going out in wedges and heels, plan to use Uber instead of walking.

Mexico Money Tips

27. have cash and change at all times.

In Mexico, cash is still king. Even though more and more places accept credit cards with each passing year, the safer bet is cash because it’s accepted everywhere.

In upscale places where people tend to spend more, like malls, popular tourist attractions, etc. cards are generally accepted. However, at street food stands, mom and pop restaurants, in taxis, etc., you’ll need to pay in cash.

28. Hang on to small bills

As mentioned, Mexico is still a cash-dominant country, and since ATMs generally give big bills, people often need to break them.

For this reason, small bills (and coin change) really come in handy in Mexico, where breaking large bills can sometimes be an issue.

29. Pay in pesos, not dollars

Some places accept U.S. dollars and euros, especially cities with a cruise port where visitors are just in town for a few hours. If that’s your only option, then of course, use those currencies.

However, merchants that accept USD and euros usually give a pretty low exchange rate. This is because they then have to take your money somewhere to get it changed back to pesos, and you essentially pay that cost.

For example, the typical Mexican pesos to U.S. dollar exchange rate is about $20 pesos per $1 USD.

When paying a bill in dollars, you’re likely to get a $16 peso to $1 USD exchange rate (or similar), so try to avoid it whenever you can.

30. How to tip in Mexico

Unsure about Mexico tipping rates? In Mexico, you tip servers and bartenders, Uber and taxi drivers, manicurists, tour guides, and anyone who provides a service.

This includes tipping in Cancun , tipping in Mexico City , tipping in Cabo , tipping in Puerto Vallarta , tipping at all inclusive resorts — and tipping in Mexico anywhere!

In professional places, like restaurants and salons, customary Mexico tip rates are 15-20%; for taquerias and street food stands, 10%.

As appropriate tipping amounts can be a hotly debated topic, keep in mind that you should always tip generously for good service.

💸 Tipping in Mexico with Credit Cards

The procedure for tipping on a card in Mexico is one of the top things to know about traveling to Mexico that is very much unlike what you’re used to in the U.S.

When paying with a card, they will add in the tip before running the card , and you have to indicate the amount you want to leave.

An easy way to do this is by saying Más veinte por ciento, por favor , or “Add in 20%, please.’

You can also request to add in a specific amount, and not a percentage. To do that, you’d say Más cien pesos, por favor , or “Add in $100 pesos, please.” 💸 Note: $100 pesos is about $5 USD.

31. Don’t exchange money in Mexico

For the most part, the way you lose the most money to currency exchange fees is by changing dollars to pesos through a private company.

Instead, just use an ATM from a reputable bank when you arrive in Mexico at the airport as a way to save money on the conversion fee.

32. Use indoor bank ATMs only

Since cash is the preferred method of payment, you’ll find ATMs all over the place — and often in very random places, like just on a street corner in a main tourist area.

There are also ATMs in convenience stores, but try not to use these either. Your best bet is to look for a bank where you can go inside and use their ATM.

This is good for both your safety and privacy, and because if there’s a problem using the street or convenience ATMs, it can be difficult to get in touch with the owner.

33. Avoid ATMs on paydays and peak times

On paydays, usually the 15th and 30th of the month, you’ll see long lines of people at ATMs. If you can avoid it, don’t use ATMs on these days.

You’ll also want to avoid ATMs during the busiest hours of the day, about 5-7pm, when people are getting off work.

34. Price haggling in Mexico isn’t the norm

Depending on who you ask, some will say haggling is acceptable. However, most won’t — especially those who actually live in Mexico ( like me ).

Where I live in Merida, Mexico , one of the largest Mayan artisanal craft stores actually had a sign indicating not to price-haggle.

Now, if you’re somewhere like a local mercado (market), and you’re looking at something but then begin to walk away, and that vendor offers it at a lower price — then it’s obviously OK to negotiate with the person.

🚕💨 Price haggling in Mexico Taxis

Occasionally, taxi drivers will haggle and negotiate a fare with you, particularly in touristic areas where they’re used to people doing it.

However, this isn’t generally the norm in Mexican culture. You can try to negotiate, of course, but don’t be surprised if they just drive away when you try to haggle. (I’ve had this done to me before!)

In short: Price haggling and price negotiations in Mexico aren’t as common as in Asia or the Middle East. They aren’t exactly a hard no, but there’s a chance doing so will be seen as offensive.

best TIPS FOR MEXICO VACATION

Mexico transportation tips.

35. Rent a car with a reputable company

Not all Mexico car rental companies are created equal — and in fact, the Mexico car rental scam is one of the most well known.

In short, they advertise prices as low as $10 USD per day, but with fees, insurance, and whatever else, you end up paying about $35 USD per day.

BEST MEXICO CAR RENTAL COMPANY: Discover Cars

When booking your Mexico car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars . They search international corporations and local Mexican companies, so you get the best deal — and have FREE cancellation up to 48 hours before your rental.

For this reason, consider only car rentals from a well-reviewed company. Discover Cars is the company I both recommend, and use , on any Mexico road trip.

They also offer the cheapest Mexico driving insurance I have ever found — about $7-10 USD per day for full coverage.

Note: You need Mexico car insurance to drive to Mexico and drive in Mexico, and your U.S. policy won’t be accepted.

36. Inter-country Mexico flights are cheap

Many underestimate the size of Mexico, but it is actually the 14th largest country on Earth!

If your trip involves covering a lot of geographic distance, don’t assume a rental car or even a bus will be cheaper than flying.

In Mexico, you’ll find several low-cost Mexican airlines, like Volaris, AeroMexico and VivaAerobus with flights going all over the country.

Of the three, VivaAerobus has about as good of a reputation as Spirit Airlines in the U.S., but they are often the cheapest. ✈️ Find cheap Mexico flights on SkyScanner .

37. Use the ADO bus

As you can see, you have rental car and flight options, but there’s also the ADO bus. ADO is Mexico’s largest bus company, and you can pretty much get from one side of the country to the other on an ADO bus.

🥶 Mexico Travel Tip: Bring a sweater, as ADO buses are kept really cold. 

For trips of five hours or less, or trips to off the beaten path places, the bus is usually your best bet.

You can buy Mexico bus tickets online ahead of time with BusBud , or just show up to the bus station about 30 minutes before departure and snag whatever seats haven’t been claimed.

ADO has several classes of buses, though all their buses are generally comfortable. The classes are

• ADO Primera  —  Clase Primera  (First Class), their basic buses, which are still nice
• ADO GL  —  Gran   Lujo  (Deluxe Class), one class up from  Clase Primera , with nicer amenities
• ADO Platino  —  Clase   Lujo  (Executive Class), the best ADO buses they have, which are the Merida to Cancun bus equivalent of flying first class!

Even with a standard bus ticket, you’ll have AC, a large comfy reclining seat, outlet for your gadgets and bathroom. The luxury class buses also have WiFi, and usually aren’t much more money.

38. Use Uber in Mexico over public transport

One of the top safe traveling in Mexico tips is to skip public transportation. Now, that’s not to say it’s unsafe; rather, that Uber tends to be much safer.

Uber and taxi rates are comparable, but Uber cars are nicer, you don’t have to negotiate the price, or have to have cash to pay.

If you have a U.S. Uber account, it will work in Mexico, but you must be on WiFi or have cellular data to call one — so don’t forget your Mexico SIM card .

Rates of course vary, but Uber costs about 50% less in Mexico than in the U.S., on top of the great monetary exchange rate — so figure about $7 USD for a 30 minute ride.

As in the U.S., Mexico taxis can be a bit sketchy, so for safety, I personally only recommend using Uber in Mexico.

🚨 Uber isn’t everywhere in Mexico

For now, Uber is not available in all Mexico states — namely Quintana Roo state (where you’ll find Tulum , Cancun , Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya), Oaxaca state and Chiapas state.

In those states, you’ll need to use taxis, public transport, or rent a car .

39. Agree on the taxi fare before getting in

In Mexico, you’ll ask the taxi driver the rate from where you are to where you’re headed. After they will tell you, you’ll verbally agree, you then you can get in and go.

The taxis in Mexico have no meters, and fares tend to have standard rates by zone. If the driver tells you a price you’re unhappy with, you can offer a lower price, but there’s a good chance they will say no and drive off.

As mentioned in Tip #34 , Mexico isn’t known for price haggling, but that doesn’t mean many people don’t do it anyway.

40. Avoid public transport during rush hour

If you do opt for public transportation, try to avoid it from about 7am-9am, and 5pm-7pm.

In Mexico, especially big cities, people squish in like sardines to get to and from work. During this hectic time of day, you’re also at the highest risk of getting pickpocketed.

Mexico Food Tips

41. test the salsa before eating it.

The point of salsa is to add the “heat’ element to food, so they are always spicy, to some degree.

Before putting salsa all over your food, test it out by putting a small drop on your hand in the area between your thumb and pointer finger, like many locals do.

🌶 Mexico Travel Tips: Learn how to ask Is this spicy? (¿Esto pica?), and say Not spicy, please (Sin picante, por favor), if you don’t like spicy foods.

42. Sip your tequila and mezcal

Contrary to popular belief, tequila and mezcal , the most famous liquors in Mexico, are meant to be savored and sipped — not taken as shots.

If you’re planning to drink a lot, one of the most important tips when traveling to Mexico is to pack these Anti-Hangover Meds from Liquid IV. This is an Amazon best seller with more than 90,000 positive reviews (and counting).

43. How to pick the right Mexico street food

Mexican food has been recognized by UNESCO as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity,” a designation it shares with just one other country, France.

This basically means Mexican food is a gift to mankind — so if you go to Mexico and skip street food entirely, you’re really missing out. 

As a country with some of the best street food in the world — and a lot of stands to choose from — the key with street food in Mexico is picking the right place.

To do so, use these tips to pick safe, delicious, cheap Mexican street food:

• Find a place that has a line: They aren’t fun to wait in, but do indicate the food is good and the place is hygienic — or else people wouldn’t wait to eat there.
• Look for somewhere with a lot of cabs parked in front: Taxi drivers usually know the best cheap eats and street food in Mexico.
• Make sure there are at least two employees: One should be cooking and other should only handle the money.
• Look for a large jug of hand sanitizer: If you don’t see one, the employees likely aren’t using any.

44. Mexican food is regional

Mexico and tacos go together like milk and cookies, and you’ll certainly find tacos everywhere!

However, depending on where you’re headed, the best food in that state or region might not be tacos, so make sure to sample the authentic Mexican food in that area too.

Here are some examples of foods from different states you’ll want to be on the lookout for:

• Jalisco State : Try birria and tortas ahogadas in Jalisco state, home to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Tequila and more.
• Oaxaca State : Try tlayudas , mole , memelas, tejate and all these Oaxaca food favorites .
• Yucatan Peninsula : Try cochinita pibil , panuchos , sopa de lima and marquesitas , Yucatan food staples in the Yucatan Peninsula, home to Tulum, Cancun, Mérida, Playa del Carmen, etc.
• Puebla State : Try mole poblano and cemitas in Puebla state, located next to Mexico City.
• Mexico City : This is the place for tacos! If you need taco tips in Mexico City, check out this article, 50 Best Tacos in Mexico City + FREE Map .

45. Ice in Mexico is safe

Yes — Though water in Mexico is unsafe to drink, ice is perfectly fine.

There are many blogs with travel Mexico tips that say skip the ice to not get sick in Mexico — but they are misinformed. Freezing water doesn’t kill bacteria the way boiling it does, so ice in Mexico is made with purified water.

💦 What’s the cleanest drinking water in Mexico?

Everyone drinks bottled or purified water in Mexico, but not all filtered water is created equal. These Water-To-Go Bottles handle that by filtering out 99.99999% of all bacteria, parasites, microplastics and more.

46. Tipping at street stands & restaurants

Tipping procedures and rates are the same in Mexico as in the U.S., and you’ll want to tip anyone providing you a service — including servers, bartenders, street food vendors, Uber and taxi drivers, etc.

💳 Tipping on Credit Card in Mexico: For more information about how to tip on a credit card, head to Tip #30 above.

In restaurants and bars, tip rates are 15-20%; for taquerias and street food stands, 10-15% will work.

Of course, do feel free to tip generously in Mexico, and only use those percentages as a guide. If someone goes above and beyond for you, they’d certainly appreciate a tip for doing so.

Mexico Bathroom Travel Tips

While not the sexiest of tips for travelling to Mexico, this bathroom knowledge will surely come in handy!

As far as tips for travelers to Mexico, I saved the best for last with #50 — as I’ve seen more than one unfortunate “wrong restroom” incident.

47. Public bathrooms aren’t always free

Public bathrooms in most indoor places, like grocery stores, malls and museums will be free.

However, restrooms in mercados (markets), downtown areas, and other places for locals may cost between $5-10 pesos (about 25¢), and you will need coins to access them.

48. Carry a pack of tissues

Inside of said restrooms, as well as at gas stations, off the beaten path pueblos (small towns), crowded tourist attractions, etc., toilet paper can often be MIA.

Do yourself a favor and carry around a small pack of tissues , which do come in handy as more than just TP.

49. Don’t flush your TP

Mexico’s sewage infrastructure isn’t the same as in the U.S., so to be on the safe side — don’t flush toilet paper.

There are places where it’s considered safe, so double check with your accommodation to get their say, but in public it’s better to be on the safe side and throw it away.

50. “M” bathrooms are for women

This is perhaps the most important of all travel tips Mexico visitors need to hear!

The “M” sign on a bathroom door stands for mujeres , or women. You may also see the letter “D” for damas , meaning ladies, or just the woman in a dress icon.

• 🚺 Women’s Bathrooms: M or D — Indicating mujeres (women) and damas (ladies).
• 🚹 Men’s Bathrooms: H or C — Indicating hombres (men) and caballeros (gentlemen).
• 🚾 All Bathrooms: You might see the bathroom labeled as baño (restroom) and WC, or “water closet”

Final Thoughts: Tips for Mexico Travel

As neighboring countries, the U.S. and Mexico aren’t too dissimilar — though there are plenty of differences. The main one is of course the language, so be sure to brush up on your Spanish bbefore you visit Mexico.

Beyond verbal communication issues, most things are easily navigable by being friendly, patient and humble.

The 50 tips for traveling in Mexico in this article are the ones that come up often, both in my DMs and in Mexico travel forums online, though it’s by no means an exhaustive list.

I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and still discover new ways I can be more integrated and culturally-appropriate.

These tips aren’t about being perfect; rather they are a guide to help you be prepared for different customs so they don’t frustrate you and throw you off.

In the end, the best Mexico tips of all are to be kind, not assume things are done the same as they are in the U.S., and have fun.

Whether this is your first trip to Mexico, you’ve been before and will be exploring Mexico a bit more in-depth this time, or you’re doing a long-term one month in Mexico trip — these are my best tips for all Mexico travelers.

I hope they help you when visiting Mexico 🇲🇽 If want to hear these tips in audio form, it’s now available as a Mexico podcast! Head here to listen to Episode #43 , 50 Tips on Traveling to Mexico.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

52 Mexico Travel Tips to Know in 2024: Written by a Local

Looking for Mexico travel tips to help you plan your Mexican adventure? Look no further. 

All of the answers to your burning questions about traveling to Mexico are covered here. These are a mixture of things you absolutely need to know, and those you never even knew you needed. 

Better still? They have been written by someone who actually lives in Mexico. 

Table of Contents

52 Mexico Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Most tourists are now granted a 180-day visa on arrival.

Recently, the Mexican government started really cracking down on monitoring tourists entering and exiting the country. Although the “maximum” allowance for a tourism visa was 180 days, many people would only be granted entry to the country for a week or so. 

This strongly impeded some people’s travel plans and caused a lot of anxiety for people planning trips around Latin America. This was, in part, due to an influx of people choosing to work remotely here during the pandemic. 

Many people were spending extended periods in Mexico without having the correct visas and work permits. They would enter the country for six months, exit, and re-enter again. 

However, as of late 2022, all tourists flying into Cancun and a handful of other Mexican airports are automatically granted 180 days in the country. You no longer have to carry an FMM form. 

Instead, your passport will be stamped and the Immigration agent will write the date by which you have to leave Mexico – 180 days from your entry. 

The culture and cuisine in Mexico vary from state to state

People often do not realize just how diverse a country Mexico is. For instance, did you know that there are more than 68 different indigenous groups living in the country, and more than 300 different languages spoken?

There are 32 states in Mexico and they often feel like entirely different countries to each other. (At various points in history, the Yucatan state was an independent country!) 

The culture and cuisine in the city of Puebla de Zaragoza and the state of Puebla feel more European in nature. While the cultures in Sinaloa and the Yucatan are different entirely. 

Many people think of tacos, tortas, and burritos when they think of Mexican food but those dishes are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the delicacies you can find here. Dishes vary from region to region. 

In Northern Mexico, people prepare a lot of carne asada – grilled, sliced meat. Puebla cuisine is known for its mole and dishes prepared with poblano chilis. 

Yucatecan food is something different entirely. Many Yucatecan delicacies can only be found in the Yucatan peninsula and many of them use recipes and cooking methods that were invented by the Ancient Maya! 

Experiencing local holidays can enrich your experience

Different cultural and religious celebrations take place throughout the year in Mexico. Some are celebrated nationwide, while others are only hosted in certain states and cities. 

One of the most incredible experiences that you can have in Mexico is to travel during the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. Mexicans are known for their special relationship towards death – instead of mourning a loved one lost, they celebrate their life and the fact they existed. 

Every November, people visit the pantheons (cemeteries) around the country to clean and decorate their loved ones’ graves. Various candlelit processions, events, and parades take place everywhere from Merida to Oaxaca. 

People set up ofrendas (altars) in honor of their loved ones. They decorate them with all of the deceased person’s favorite food, snacks, and trinkets.

A new tourist tax is payable in Quintana Roo 

Mexico has experimented with various forms of tourism tax over the years. With the changes to the FMM as of 2022 come changes to tourist tax payable for travelers who fly into Cancun. 

This new tax, known as “Visatax” is payable before you leave the country. (You can also pay it online in advance before you even arrive). 

The fee is 224 pesos per person (circa $12 USD). If you prefer not to pay it online, there are kiosks at Cancun International Airport where you can pay.

Once you do, you will be given a QR code that you can show to get through airport security. Do allow plenty of time as there are often queues at the kiosks. (It often works out much easier to pay online plenty of time in advance). 

Check Mexico’s entry requirements

Mexicos entry requirements could be subject to change at any time.

Depending on where you are from, you may be permitted to travel in Mexico for up to 180 days visa-free or you may require a visa. Check your local government’s travel advice in advance of booking your trip. 

You will need to fill out an immigration form (FMM) for your trip to Mexico. It is possible to complete this online in advance via the Mexican government website here . 

This saves time passing through customs at Cancun or whichever airport you are traveling through. You need to present a physical copy of the form to Mexican Immigration so be sure to print it out if you complete it online.

Otherwise, you will find the form, as well as plenty of pens, scattered around the customs room when you arrive.

Mexico is safe with precautions

Mexico is a safe travel destination , provided that you use common sense and take precautions when you travel. This means not walking around alone at night, researching safe neighborhoods, being aware of your surroundings, and being wary of over-friendly strangers. In other words, staying safe in Mexico requires the same kind of common sense that you should use when traveling anywhere else in the world. Mexico often gets an unfairly bad reputation as being a dangerous country rife with kidnapping, narcos, and organized and petty crime. While there is no smoke without fire, the dangerous parts of Mexico are confined to border towns and areas where you have no business going as a tourist anyway. Generally speaking, if you don’t go looking for trouble in Mexico, you will not find it. 

When you hear negative things about Mexico, remember the importance of keeping everything in perspective. Sure, bad things do happen occasionally. 

However, when you consider the fact that 41 million tourists travel to Mexico each year, it puts it all in perspective. Most trips to Mexico are trouble-free. 

Mexico is unfairly portrayed in the media, especially in the United States.

Uber exists in parts of Mexico 

Uber exists in some parts of Mexico and the locals prefer to use apps like this, as opposed to taking street taxis. In Mexico, you will also find DiDi – an alternative ride app that is often much cheaper to use. To download DiDi though, you will need to change the settings on your phone and your Apple/Android account (as applicable). Your location needs to be set to Mexico before you will even be able to find the app in the App Store to be able to download it. 

These ride apps come with additional security features that you simply do not have if you hail a random taxi on the street. For instance, you can share your ride info with friends and family, you have the driver’s name and number plate and with Didi, you can audio record your route. In Mexico, Uber operates in Aguascalientes, Chihuahua, Cuernavaca, Guadalajara, Merida, Mexicali, Mexico City, Monterrey, Progreso, Puebla, San Miguel de Allende and Tijuana. It does NOT operate in Cancun, Tulum, or anywhere else in the Maya Riviera/state of Quintana Roo. 

Uber does not work at most airports

Although Uber is available in a lot of Mexican cities, it is not available at every airport. It is banned at Cancun International Airport for instance, and only licensed cabs and prebooked transfers are allowed to operate there. 

Uber and ridesharing apps are banned at Merida and Puerto Vallarta airports. However, they are perfectly acceptable to use at Guadalajara airport and Mexico City airport (MEX).

If you are traveling somewhere and depend on being able to get an Uber when you land at your destination, make sure that it is permitted at that airport first.

Venture off the beaten path

A lot of people that travel to Mexico stick to the same few places, especially if they are traveling in search of the sun. Destinations like Tulum, Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox, PDC, Puerto Vallarta, and Sayulita constantly rank at the top of people’s Mexico bucket lists. While these places are beautiful and popular for a reason, they have been massive victims of gentrification. In recent years, prices have risen dramatically in some parts of the Maya Riviera. You will often find more tourists than locals and little opportunity to immerse yourself in the “real” Mexican culture and Mexican traditions . So, consider thinking outside the box. 

You can craft a Mexico itinerary that combines the popular destinations that everyone raves about (Tulum, Cancun, et al) and the lesser-known ones. For instance, remote Yucatan beaches , the sleepy beach town of El Cuyo, the indigenous villages of Chiapas, or the pueblos magicos of Jalisco.  

You cannot drink the water

You cannot drink water in Mexico. At all. Even locals do not drink it and it is imperative that you purchase bottled water. Generally, the water in Mexico is purified at the source but the pipes and distribution systems are often old, faulty, and damaged and so, the water can sometimes become contaminated on its journey to your tap.

There have been instances of people getting very unwell from the water. You will never really know if it is going to make you sick or not until you try it and it is just not worth the risk. 

Most Airbnbs and hotels in Mexico will provide you with some bottled water when you check-in. Some upscale hotels and resorts may have potable water on site.

It is a good idea to purchase a reusable water bottle like a lifestraw before your trip to Mexico. This not only helps you to save on plastic waste but reusable bottles are made in such a way that they keep the water cool in your backpack throughout the day. You can purchase large, multi-liter bottles of water from convenience stores and supermarkets. Then, fill up your reusable bottle each morning before heading out on a day’s sightseeing!

It’s perfectly safe to have ice in your drinks 

Although you cannot drink water in Mexico, you don’t have to worry about having ice in your drinks. Wherever you go, stores and restaurants use pre-packaged ice using mineral water. 

It is perfectly safe to consume and won’t make you unwell. 

Agua frescas are also safe to drink 

Agua frescas are arguably the most popular Mexican drinks you will find in the country. They are made by blending fresh fruit with water, a dash of lime, and a sprinkle of sugar. 

You will find a seemingly infinite number of interesting variations of these drinks around the country. Horchata, tamarind, jamaica (hibiscus), lemonade, and orangeade are among the most popular. 

Agua frescas are safe to drink too as once again, tap water is never used. 

It’s safe to eat salad, fruits, and veggies – with the correct preperation

Don’t stress about the safety of eating salads and vegetables in Mexico. Things like lettuce, spinach, etc will always be washed using clean, fresh water. 

Fruits and veggies in Mexico may contain pathogens that can make you ill, or they may be sprayed with pesticides. So, you need to clean them thoroughly with an anti-microbial soulution, particularly if you are going to be eating the skin. 

Microdyn is the main solution used. You can find it in Walmart, Super Aki, and any Mexican supermarket. Some people prefer to make their own from white wine vinegar. To clean the Mexican fruits and veggies thoroughly, you need to place them in clean water, add a few drops of Microdyn and wait 10-15 mins depending on the amount of things you are cleaning. 

Restaurants, museums, and other businesses close on Mondays 

Many museums, restaurants, parks, and other tourist attractions are closed in Mexico on Mondays. Most Mexicans work six days a week and only have Sundays off work. 

So, it makes sense that places would be open on Sundays to accommodate everyone on their days off, despite the religious importance of the day. (Mexico is a catholic country and a lot of people are religious). 

So, Monday is the chosen “day of rest” for a lot of businesses in Mexico. Not all museums and restaurants are closed on this day but a lot are. 

This includes the famous National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City and many sections of Chapultepec Park. Check the opening places of places that interest you in advance so you can plan your visit accordingly. 

Experience cenotes 

Cenotes are a highlight of any trip to Mexico, particularly if you are spending time in the south of Mexico or you are planning on doing a road trip around the Yucatan peninsula. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that were formed when the Chicxulub meteor smashed into the earth and wiped out the dinosaurs some 65 million years ago. 

There are more than 7,000 spectacular cenotes scattered across the Yucatan peninsula. Cenotes are perfectly safe , provided you follow basic common sense around water safety. 

Some are “closed” and set inside caves with fabulous caverns, stalagmites, and stalactites. Others are open bodies of water set in the heart of the jungle. 

Suytan Cenote is a famous site that you may have seen on Instagram. But there are plenty of other gorgeous, lesser-known cenotes here too – including the Homun cenotes. 

Check entrance information before heading to sites 

Sometimes you will be checking for information on buses or museum/archeological site opening times and you will find that you simply cannot find much information online. Welcome to Mexico!

Occasionally, Google Maps will display a ruin or a museum as being “temporarily closed” yet there is no official information stating such on the tourism/business website. Try and check in advance of traveling to the site if you can.

Things can close suddenly for maintenance or for bizarre political reasons without warning. For instance, the Dzibilchaltun archeological site in the Yucatan and the Coba ruins in Quintana Roo are frequently closed with no notice due to ongoing arguments between the government and landowners. You don’t want to trek all the way somewhere, get to the gates, and then find it’s closed. So always do a quick Google of the ruin/site you are on your way to before heading out. 

Visit lesser-known ruins and ancient sites 

Chichen Itza and Palenque are perhaps the best-known Maya ruins in Mexico. But did you know that Mexico is actually home to more than 200 Mayan sites? Chichen Itza and Palenque are absolutely worth visiting and should be high on your list of things to see in Mexico. Chichen Itza, in particular, is one of the “new” seven wonders of the world after all!  But one of the best Mexico travel tips? Don’t overlook lesser-known archaeological sites which are just as worthy of your time and often without the crowds.

You can easily squeeze a few additional ruins into your itinerary. Because the sites are so different and filled with history, you never have a feeling of “once you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all”. Mayapan is a great place to add to your radar. The city is considered as being the last great Mayan settlement and indeed, King Kukulkan II and his people relocated here following the fall of Chichen Itza. The Edzna ruins in Campeche state are so remote that you will often find that you are the only tourist there. Meanwhile, Calakmul, deep in the tropical forest of the Tierras Bajas is one of the largest and most important Maya sites.  

Be careful with street cabs

Nobody wants to hear negative things about the country they are planning to travel to but it is important to be realistic when planning your trip to Mexico.

It is typically safer to take a cab using a rideshare app like Uber and Didi in Mexico rather than a street cab. (This is the opposite view to what people often have in other parts of the world but the truth is that there is much more accountability via the app).

Still, in some places where ridesharing apps don’t operate, you really have no other choice than to take a city taxi. If you do, take one from a rank or have your hotel reception/concierge organize one for you rather than hailing one at random. It is not unheard of for cab drivers to overcharge tourists or take a roundabout route around town to rack up the charge on the meter. But a more sinister problem in Mexico is express kidnappings. Express kidnappings happen when someone is driving a cab and poses as a taxi driver. When the tourist gets in the vehicle, other sketchy people enter and force the tourist to hand over their cash and valuables and withdraw the maximum amount of money from various ATMs. Sometimes this is done at gunpoint. The main motive is money and there is generally no intent to harm the person but this is no doubt traumatic and absolutely something that you want to avoid. 

Take time to visit Pueblo Magicos

As you travel around Mexico, you will see towns that are designated as “Pueblos Magicos”. If you see one nearby, this is definitely a place that you should research and consider visiting. Pueblos Magicos are charming Mexican settlements that have been recognized by the Mexican government’s Secretary of Tourism for their unique appeal. They may boast unique local gastronomy, breathtaking natural beauty, quaint historic charm, or any combination of the three. Think of Mexico’s “Pueblos Magicos” status as a sort of Mexican domestic UNESCO recognition if you will. There are currently 132 Pueblos Magicos in Mexico and the list is no doubt set to expand in the future. Towns must meet certain criteria and lay out an action plan on how they plan to attract and entertain tourists if they want to be considered as Pueblos Magicos. Tulum, Valladolid, and Izamal are perhaps some of the best-known towns to have this accreditation. 

Follow your government travel advisory for information 

Your government travel advice is an invaluable source of information for anywhere you travel. The UK and USA travel advisory is particularly useful and they are updated regularly. Some of the wording can be a little stern so take some of what you read with a pinch of salt. Do take heed of the advisory’s state-by-state warning. The US travel advisory breaks down the various Mexican states into the three categories of “do not travel”, “reconsider travel”, “exercise increased caution” and “exercise normal caution”. You want to pay attention to the “do not travel” states. These are generally places rife with crime and cartel activity. If you are planning to travel to them, stick to safe areas and be mindful of how you plan to get from city to city. 

It is easy to see a doctor if you fall sick

A lot of people associate traveling to Mexico with getting sick. Heck, there’s even a name for it – Montezuma’s Revenge! 

Getting sick when traveling in Mexico isn’t a certainty, especially if you make smart decisions about what and where you eat. There are often a variety of factors that contribute to us falling ill when traveling – a change of schedule, jetlag, unfamiliar ingredients, etc. 

If you are unfortunate enough to fall unwell, the good thing is that it is easy to get an appointment with a local doctor. Walk-in clinics can be found at various strip malls around the country. 

With no prior appointment or medical record, you can simply enter and wait to be seen. Appointments cost as little as $3 and although doctors don’t always speak English, you can typically get by with Google Translate. 

If you prefer an English-speaking doctor, your best bet is to go to a private hospital. Appointments here can start from around $25. 

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance 

It is imperative that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip to Mexico. You should always ensure that you have insurance before traveling anywhere as you never know what may happen. As a rule of thumb, try to purchase an insurance plan that has at least a million dollars worth of medical coverage. It is a good idea to purchase a plan that comes with additional features such as repatriation, protection for loss/theft of luggage, protection for expensive electrical items, etc. With the best will in the world, you never know what may happen when you travel and it is always better to be safe than sorry. Overseas medical bills can be expensive. Always read the small print when purchasing an insurance plan. Sporting activities are seldom included in standard plans, not even hiking. When you have purchased your coverage, print out the confirmation, take a screenshot, or write down your policy number. Should you be unfortunate enough to need assistance overseas, this will be the first thing they ask for before offering any help. 

Pesos are the correct currency in Mexico 

Mexican pesos are the legal tender in Mexico. A lot of people ask whether US dollars and other currencies can be used here. 

Generally speaking, you should try and pay in pesos. A lot of areas/businesses will not accept US dollars at all. 

Some hotels, resorts, airport transfer companies, and tour operators in tourist areas like Cancun, Tulum, Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta may accept them. But if they do, you will often find that you are not getting a competitive rate and you pay more in dollars. 

Change a small amount of currency into Mexican pesos before your trip and withdraw more when you land. $1 USD is equivalent to around 19/20 pesos. 

Take care of your money and bank cards

Be mindful of how you manage your money in Mexico. It is a good idea to carry multiple bank cards and leave some in your hotel or in your luggage while you are out exploring. That way, if you happen to lose a card or your purse/wallet, you know that you do not have to worry about not being able to access your funds. Similarly, you might want to keep an emergency fund of at least $50/$100 hidden deep in your suitcase for the worst-case scenario. Take photos of your bank cards and back the photos up to the cloud so that you have all of your details should anything happen to the physical cards. Make sure that you have your bank’s mobile banking app downloaded on your phone so that you can easily manage your accounts remotely or IM your bank in an emergency, rather than having to call internationally. 

Ensure you have a borderless bank account 

Having a borderless bank account is an absolute must when you travel internationally. Fees incurred from withdrawing cash from ATMs on an international debit card, or simply using your debit card for store/restaurant purchases can quickly mount up. In fact, when you withdraw money from a Mexican ATM, you may find that for a $250 withdrawal, you have fees as high as $20! The fees charged by the Mexican banks and your own country’s bank are substantial in themselves. Moreover, you are likely to have to agree to an additional access fee of around 50-80 pesos before using the ATM. Add to that the poor conversion rates and the entire experience of using your debit card in Mexico is just unnecessarily expensive. Avoid this by opening a borderless bank account that offers zero fees on international withdrawals and transactions. Wise, Revolut, and Charles Schwab are all borderless bank accounts to be aware of. 

Buses are an excellent way to get around 

Public transport in Mexico on the whole still leaves a little to be desired. You may find that you have to make multiple connections even to get to important ruins and tourist sites. However that being said, connections between major cities are generally pretty good. ADO and Noreste buses run between major tourist cities in Mexico such as Cancun to Merida, Merida to Chichen Itza , and Cancun to Tulum . Rome 2 Rio is a good resource to use to check the latest bus schedules, routes, and rates. ADO buses are Mexico’s premier bus network and the services are very modern, clean, and comfortable. ADO buses boast air conditioning, complimentary wifi, and reclining seats. You can use the ADO website and app to purchase tickets. They are both only available in Spanish but even if you have no Spanish language skills, they are pretty self-explanatory. This way, you can purchase mobile tickets. 

You will receive an email with a QR code that you can simply show the driver on your phone while boarding. This will also display your seat number. 

Use theft-proof bags and luggage for peace of mind 

Mexico can be a safe place to travel but unfortunately, petty crime is still very common. This is often an opportunistic crime and is a particular problem in crowded marketplaces.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and if you can, walk with your backpack on your front if you are navigating your way through crowded mercados. A theft-proof backpack can be a good investment. They are a little pricier than a regular backpack, sure. But they are slash-proof (to prevent someone from cutting your bag open with a knife), waterproof, and have a TSA-approved locking system. They are both durable and stylish and most companies, like Pacsafe, offer a long multi-year warranty. You can also find theft-proof luggage and fanny packs if you prefer.  

You cannot flush toilet paper

The plumbing system in Mexico is not quite as robust as those in other countries. As such, you should avoid flushing paper down the toilet. 

There will always be a trashcan located next to the bin and a sign reminding you not to flush paper. It is best to heed this advice as you don’t want to deal with an unpleasant clog in your hotel room.

Don’t be afraid to try the street food 

Street food is a huge part of the local food culture in Mexico. If you avoid it, you are missing a huge part of the Mexico travel experience. Mexico boasts some of the best street food in the world. Look out for elotes – grilled corn on the cob served slathered in mayonnaise, chili powder, and fresh lime juice. Homemade churros are not to be missed and in the Yucatanm be sure to order marquesitas.

These are crepes that are rolled up like a pita wrap and filled with Queso de Bola (Dutch cheese), Nutella or chocolate sauce. Use the same common sense when choosing street food places in Mexico as you would anywhere else. If a vendor has a long queue of locals beside it, it is generally a good indication that it is a good place to eat. 

Don’t eat at places where meat or fruit has been sitting out or there are flies swarming around. (They probably don’t look appetizing anyway!)

Always carry hand sanitizer and clean your hands before and after eating. 

Purchase reef-safe sunscreen 

If you are traveling to Mexico, you need to purchase reef-safe sunscreen. Standard store-bought sunscreens contain chemicals and ingredients that are harmful to the natural ecosystems found in coral reefs and cenotes. Some areas around the Maya Riviera, including Cancun, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen have enforced a law to ensure that tourists use reef-safe sunscreen when traveling. In other parts of Mexico, like Oaxaca, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo, this is not regulated. However, in the interests of being an ethical, mindful traveler, it is a good idea to only use reef-safe sunscreen. Some cenotes in the Yucatan will require you to shower before entry to remove any dirt and dangerous chemicals such as those from sunscreen. 

Take walking tours to get your bearings in new places 

Taking a walking tour is a good way to get your bearings in a new town or city. Opt to do one soon after arriving in a new city in order to get a lay of the land. Walking tours provide more historical context and help you to stumble across places that you may not have found independently. They also mean that you have a local expert on hand to ask any questions that you may need.

A local guide can advise you on the best places to eat, drink and hang out in the area. 

You may want to take a tour that follows a particular theme. For instance, a street food tour may interest you if you consider yourself a foodie, or a market tour with a cooking class. 

Know the best times to travel to each area 

Mexico is a pretty good year-round travel destination and the temperatures are pleasant in most parts of the country, whatever time you travel. That being said, because Mexico is so vast, the weather conditions vary significantly from one part of the country to another. Winter in Mexico runs from December to April and is considered the dry season. In the southern parts of the country, it gets very wet, humid, and rainy from May until October with the threat of hurricanes in the late summer months. Prices are often higher during the dry season, with popular hotels along the Riviera Maya often booked to full occupancy and crowds of tourists occupying some areas. From December to April, you can expect warm, balmy days and temperatures of around 28-30 degrees Celsius. From May onwards, it does get very hot and humid. But if you don’t mind contending with occasional rain showers, prices can be cheaper at this time and there are far fewer tourists. Check the specific weather conditions for the particular part of Mexico you plan on traveling to. For instance, in Central Mexico and areas like San Cristobal de Las Casas , it can be downright chilly during the winter months. You will absolutely need a jacket, especially in the evenings.

Domestic flights are a convenient way to get around 

Mexico is vast. While renting a car and taking buses are good ways to get around within states, if you are planning on visiting various states during your itinerary, you will need to take domestic flights. 

Fortunately, the country has a well-developed and extensive network of domestic airports and airlines. Mexican airports offer the same amenities as you would expect anywhere else in the world – restaurants and stores, wifi, air conditioning, and ATMs. 

Aero Mexico, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris are among the main Mexican airlines.

Viva Aerobus is not as bad as people make out

Viva Aerobus is a budget airline and they are to Mexico what Ryanair or Wizz Air is to Europe, or what Spirit and Frontier Airlines are to the United States. 

They often get a bad rep but they get you from A to B. Sometimes, you will find that their flights are delayed and people will often warn you against using them. Mexican budget airlines are fine if you manage your expectations and accept that it will be a no-frills experience. You may find that sometimes Viva Aerobus is your only option for a certain route so it’s either go with them or don’t visit that destination. 

Leave your designer gear and expensive items at home

Your physical appearance may make it obvious that you are not from Mexico but at the same time, you don’t need to draw unnecessary attention to yourself as a tourist. In other words, don’t wear expensive jewelry, have flashy cameras around your neck, or wear designer labels. About 44% of the population in Mexico lives below the poverty line. Most people here are very friendly, welcoming, and hospitable to tourists. But you don’t want to draw unnecessary attention to yourself as a tourist or look like someone has money. You won’t see people flashing their brand labels in Mexico so leave these items at home. 

Purchase a door stopper with an alarm

A good safety item to have in Mexico and practically anywhere is a door stopper with an alarm. If you are staying in an Airbnb, you don’t really know who has access to your accommodation besides you. Similarly, although hotel break-ins are rare, the risk is never zero. A wedge doorstop can prevent someone from getting in your room and if they do, a loud siren will sound. These items are portable and do not require any wiring. They will easily fit into the bottom of your suitcase. 

Make a realistic Mexico travel budget

It’s a good idea to make a budget before you set out on your Mexico trip. Although Mexico on the whole is a lot more affordable than the US, Canada and other global destinations, costs are continually rising. 

Tourist areas like Tulum, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos are particularly expensive. You will get a lot more bang for your buck if you travel to more off the beaten path destinations in Mexico. 

You could easily get along on less than $40 a day if you stay in hostels and eat a lot of street food or prepare meals yourself. In the Yuctan, you can easily find a budget hotel room for $25 a night. 

In Guadalajara , Puebla, Campeche City , and Merida , expect to pay around $50 a night. If you want to visit tourist areas, dine out a lot, and rent a car, a budget of around $120 a day is more reasonable. 

Always budget a little extra so you have an emergency fund if necessary. 

Be aware of Mexico travel groups and forums 

There are a lot of excellent Facebook travel groups dedicated to exploring Mexico. These can be good places to ask for advice from people that live in Mexico or have traveled in the country extensively. 

In Mexico, almost everything is done via Facebook and so you might even be able to find short, medium, and long-term accommodation options here too. Similarly, if you are traveling solo, you can easily make a post in one of these groups and find like-minded travelers to grab dinner or hang out with. Some useful Mexico travel Facebook groups are detailed below. 

• Backpacking Mexico
• On the Road in Mexico
• Female Travelers in Mexico
• Mexico Travel Community
• Foreigners in Mexico
• Digital Nomads Mexico
• Expats in Mexico 

Pack a comprehensive travel medikit 

Pack a comprehensive travel medikit for your trip to Mexico as you never know what may happen. You can purchase pre-packed medikits that contain all of the essentials like gauze, bandaids, scissors, alcohol wipes, etc. Then, you can add your own medications as required. Rehydration sachets and pills such as Immodium are a good idea in case Montezuma’s revenge decides to strike. Painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol can never go amiss.

Buy a Mexican sim card when you arrive 

A Mexican sim card is a good way to stay connected during your trip. Fortunately, they are very cheap and easy to pick up. You can buy a Telcel sim card from any OXXO, 7/11, or Mexican convenience store and you do not have to complete any paperwork or show any identification. For 200 pesos ($9.75), you can get 3GB of data, unlimited social media usage, and unlimited calls and texts within the Americas for 30 days. 

Be smart about your social media use

Be conscious of your social media use when you travel, especially if you are traveling solo and especially if your profiles are set to public. It can be tempting to share all of the exciting things that you are up to on your Instagram in real-time but the reality is that you never know who is watching what you are doing. 

People can easily find you through geotags and hashtags. Keep your friends and family informed of what you are doing but post your public updates only after you have left somewhere.

Solo travelers can feel safe here too

Just like Mexico on the whole is not as “dangerous” as people make out, solo travelers can feel comfortable here too. Mexico is such a major tourist destination and thousands of people travel here alone. 

You will not stand out as a solo traveler and you won’t find that you attract uncomfortable attention as a result of being alone. People working in hotels, tour companies, buses, etc have seen it a thousand times before. 

Obviously you need to use more common sense when you are alone – like watching your alchol intake, not wandering alone down quiet, shady-looking streets or from bars at night. But never think that Mexico is too dangerous for solo travelers.

This entire site has been written by a solo female traveler that has traveled to 10+ states alone. 

Hiring a car is a great way to get around 

Renting a car in Mexico is not as intimidating as it may seem . Opting to do so gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility in your schedule.

Public transport in Mexico can be okay if you just plan on traveling around touristy areas like the Yucatan and Quintana Roo or taking day trips from Mexico City. However, if you have a car, you do not have to adhere to bus times. Better yet, you can stop off at charming remote villages, haciendas, cenotes, and ruins that may have been difficult to get to otherwise. It typically costs between $15-25 a day to rent a car in Mexico depending on the season and where you are picking your car up from. Driving in Mexico is not as chaotic as you may envisage. In fact, you could say that a lot of drivers in Mexico are extra cautious because nobody wants to have to deal with the police if they don’t have to. Penalties for speeding, not wearing seatbelts, dangerous driving, etc, are steep. 

Download offline maps 

It is a good idea to download offline map apps such as Maps Me when traveling in Mexico, especially if you are planning on driving. 

Most parts of the country have 4G coverage and 5G does exist in a few limited areas around major cities. However, there are also definitely places where there is no data or phone signal whatsoever. 

You can be on a remote country road en route to a Mayan ruin and realize that you have completely lost all signal and cell service. While road signs are easy enough to follow, nothing beats having a GPS so be sure to download an offline map before your trip. 

Try to learn a little Spanish

Most people in Mexico speak little to no English. Along the Riviera Maya and in the Yucatan, you will find that some staff in tourist businesses speak a little English but your conversations with people will be very limited. It may not be realistic to expect to obtain any level of fluency before your trip. However, learning a little Spanish is always appreciated. Even just learning simple phrases like good morning (“Buenos dias”), good afternoon (“Buenos tardes”) and goodnight (“Buenos noches”) is polite. Duolingo is a great free app to help you learn useful Spanish words and phrases in advance of your trip.

You may also find it useful to carry a small Spanish phrasebook. 

Download Google Translate 

Google Translate can be a lifesaver in situations where you are struggling to communicate with people who do not speak English when you have limited Spanish. The translations may not be perfect but they help get the message across.

You can simply type out the sentence that you are trying to translate, watch it get translated to Spanish, and then hold the phone up to the other person. If you feel rude, just say “Lo siento” (I’m sorry). You can also play the translation out as audio.

Always carry cash 

Cash is King in Mexico. Although a lot of restaurants, stores, and businesses in large towns and cities do have POS machines, not everywhere does. 

When you get to smaller towns and villages, you will find that cash is your only payment option. Some small towns, like Rio Lagartos , do not even have ATMs. 

So, make sure that you withdraw enough money to last you a while when you leave the cities to head towards more remote areas. Road tolls, archeological site entry fees, cenote entrance fees, tour guides, parking fees, etc all need to be paid in cash.

Apply for temporary residency if you want to stay longer 

If you want to spend longer than six months in Mexico, you may want to consider applying for temporary residency . This is a good idea even if you don’t see yourself staying in Mexico indefinitely. Historically, could easily live in Mexico on a tourist visa and simply run across the border every six months. Mexico is cracking down on that now and it is better to do everything above board if you are planning on sticking around. 

It is relatively easy to obtain residency in Mexico provided that you meet the entry requirements. You need to apply at the Mexican embassy/consulate in your own country and prove economic solvency. Specifics vary depending on where you are from. However, generally, you need to prove that your income/pension earns you more than $2100 a month after tax and that you have at least $40,000 USD in savings. 

People often use Facebook for short to medium-term accommodation

If you are planning on staying in Mexico for several months or longer term, it is worth noting that a lot of people use Facebook marketplace for advertising and searching for accommodation. You can often find better deals on the marketplace than you can via real estate websites that are often targeted toward foreigners. 

A lot of dueños (landlords) don’t even bother to advertise on real estate websites, they just depend on the Facebook marketplace, a sign outside the property, and word of mouth. Obviously, you need to use some common sense with finding property and handing over money for something you found on the internet. 

A lot of rentals are also posted in Facebook groups in various cities. Do be sure to sense check any prices that you are quoted with locals and expats. 

Sometimes people quote foreigners an inflated price and assume that they don’t know the going rate. Be careful of gringo tax! 

Note the additional fees for Airbnbs in Mexico

Airbnb offers tourists the opportunity to “live like a local” in the various places they visit around the globe. However, disgruntled hotels becoming unhappy about competition from Airbnb in Mexico has led to the introduction of additional hospitality taxes on Airbnb. 

In the Yucatan for instance, you will be charged an additional 5% tax on your booking for “Impuesto Sobre Hospedaje”. Airbnb can still be a good choice if you want to be self-catered, but do keep in mind that the additional taxes, Airbnb service fees and cleaning fees can add a fair bit to the total cost of the rental. 

Wifi quality varies from one area to another 

For the most part, wifi is pretty good in Mexico. The vast majority of hotels, hostels and Airbnbs here have speedy wifi that is plenty fast enough for working online, streaming videos, etc. 

Most coffee shops and restaurants also have free, password-protected wifi available for their customers. In places like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Mexico City and Merida, you will see a lot of people working remotely from their computers without difficulty. 

The only places where you may have an issue are on Isla Holbox in Quintana Roo, and in Oaxaca. If you are working remotely in Mexico or having fast wifi is imperative for you, you can always check with your Airbnb host/hotel in advance of travelling to make sure that the internet speed is good enough. 

Ask them to do a speed test and then send you a screenshot of the results. Most Mexican airports also have free wifi, although it sometimes comes with a time limit. 

Protect yourself against mosquitoes  

Mosquitoes can be a nightmare in parts of Mexico – especially in the hot, humid Caribbean and Pacific coasts, and especially close to bodies of water. Some mosquitoes carry dengue fever and zika virus is a risk in this part of the world. 

However, your chances of contracting an illness are slim. (Take it from someone who has lived here for almost two years and has been virtually eaten alive at some points!) 

Bites are more of an annoyance than anything else, although it can be painful, irritating and make you feel unwell if you get a lot of bites. Repellent is a good idea, as is travelling with relief cream and anti-histamines. 

If you are particularly susceptible, or you will be spending a long time travelling in Mexico, it is a good idea to buy some plug-in repellants. You can slot these into the plug socket next to your bed. 

The filters need changing each day but these are pretty effective. It’s not common to find hotels equipped with mosquito nets or window covers – even in jungle areas. 

Final thoughts on these Mexico travel tips

Do you have any additional concerns about planning a trip to Mexico? I live in the Yucatan capital of Merida and I’m happy to help out with any of your questions or concerns.

Feel free to reach out to me if you need anything and I will get back to you ASAP. Safe travels and enjoy Mexico! Buen Viaje! xo

Melissa Douglas

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24 Useful Cancun Tips & Advice: What to Know Before You Go

Headed to Cancun on your vacation and looking for tips on how to have the best time? First you should know that you’re likely to have a lot of fun. But visiting a foreign country — no matter how much it caters to tourists — can lead to all sorts of questions about what to expect.

The good news? Cancun definitely does cater to American tourists. That makes many things more familiar than they would if you visiting somewhere further abroad (for instance, you can easily get by speaking English).

Below, we’ve rounded up our top tips and advice for visiting Cancun. Covering everything from money to getting around to safety, these are pointers that you don’t want to go without — especially if it’s your first time visiting.

Your Phone Will Likely Work in Cancun

While you still need to double check with your carrier, there’s a good chance that your cell phone will work in Mexico with no additional charge. Even if it doesn’t, you can often add service in Mexico for as little as $5.

Over the past several years, the fight for your cell phone service has led many carriers to offer new perks. One of those is service in Mexico and Canada. Many plans today have Mexico included automatically in the plan for no extra charge. There’s no need to get a new SIM card or jump through hoops.

And if it’s not included? Call your provider and tell them you’re headed to Mexico. They can tell you the options you have for service in Cancun. Often you can get service extended to the country for about $5-$10 per day.

Book a Hotel with an Airport Shuttle to Save

The Cancun airport is near the famous Hotel Zone, but it’s still a bit of a drive. You can book your own transportation like a taxi or shuttle, but it’s a lot easier just to stay at a hotel with free airport shuttle service . These shuttles can take you directly to your hotel and back to the airport without having to deal about a third-party. Simply let the hotel know you’ll need a ride and hop on when you land.

The good news is that lots of hotels that sit right on the beach offers shuttles to guests. You can see a full list of Cancun hotels with airport shuttles here .

Shuttle Transfers Are the Cheapest Way to the Hotel

You can take a taxi, but if you want the cheapest way to the hotel zone — and with a set price that you pay before you arrive — then look at one of the many shuttles that offer Cancun service. With so many people flying into Cancun and heading to the hotels, there is a thriving industry of shuttles. That competition leads to some low prices.

Simply Google “Cancun shuttles” to see a number of your options. A one-way ride should be about $20-30 per person. Of course, you can also just use the hotel’s shuttle for free if staying at a place that offers one.

Here are a few services to get you started:

Cancun Shuttle | USA Transfers | Cancun Transfers (Feraltar) | Happy Shuttle

No Need to Worry About Pesos

There are advantages of using pesos to purchase items in Mexico, but in the tourist hotspots like Cancun, U.S. dollars are widely accepted. In fact, bills from restaurants will come with a price that’s both in pesos and dollars and you can choose which way you want to pay. Note that you’ll often pay less using pesos because of the exchange rate charged by the establishment. Still, if you don’t want to change money over, you don’t have to. Keep in mind you might get change for dollars back in pesos.

Sunscreeen: Love It and Wear It

Even if you come to Cancun from a hot place — like Texas or Florida — you still aren’t quite prepared for the sun at lower latitudes. Here the sun’s rays are more direct, meaning that you get their impact much more quickly than you would back home. In other words, use sunscreen and reapply often. This isn’t so much for health reasons, but your enjoyment of your vacation. You don’t want to be locked inside the room because you got burned on your first day at the beach.

Take Advantage of Hotels with Childcare

If you’re a family traveling to Cancun, take advantage of one perk that many hotels now offer — childcare. A number of hotels have all sorts of amenities for kids (including child waterparks) and you can even drop them off while the staff keeps the kiddos entertained for the day. It’s a great way to have a day that both the kids and parents enjoy. See our list of Cancun hotels with childcare here .

Use “20” to Roughly Figure Exchange Rates

Need to know how much something is in dollars? Just take the price in pesos and divide it by 20 to get a rough estimate. Likewise, you can use “20” times the amount of dollars to figure out how much it is in pesos. While the exchange rate isn’t going to be exactly 20 pesos to the dollar (it’s actually closer to 17.5 to $1 as of this writing), it’s close enough to give you an idea.

Take something that costs 800 pesos. Divide by 20, and you know it’s about $40 in U.S. currency. Likewise, if you want to know how much something is in pesos that costs $20 U.S., then multiply it by 20 to see that it would cost 400 pesos.

There’s a Lot of Natural Beauty Nearby

Most people head to Cancun and head straight for the hotel. That’s perfectly ok. With stunning beaches, why wouldn’t you want to spend some time soaking it in?

But truth is there is a lot of natural scenery and beauty outside the city as well. Cenotes (natural swimming holes) have the absolute clearest water you’ll ever see. Nearby islands like Isla Mujeres offer pristine beaches, as well as some beautiful rugged shoreline. Snorkeling, diving, and adventure parks are also nearby and offer a fun way to get out and see some of this gorgeous part of Mexico.

Enjoy hanging out at the hotel, but don’t think it’s all high-rises in the area.

Know the Right Time to Travel for Your Vacation

You can travel to Cancun year-round, but there are some times that may be better than others. Summers are hot, with frequent thunderstorms that can blow up seemingly out of nowhere. June through November are hurricane season, and yes, hurricanes can impact this area of the tropics.

Many people prefer to visit in the winter, but this is the high season where rates rise due to snowbirds looking for a warm place to visit.

That’s why we don’t think there is a perfect time to visit Cancun, but just be aware of the general outlook for the time you do plan to visit. As close to perfect as you can get is around April or May when it’s plenty warm, but winter is over in North America (so prices are lower) and hurricane season isn’t yet underway.

ATMs Are Ideal for the Best Exchange Rate

The two ways to get the most favorable exchange rate are to use a credit card, or to take cash out at an ATM. We understand that many people may not be comfortable using their card abroad for risk of identity theft or skimming. If you do plan to use cash, you’re better off using an ATM than trying to change money in the airport or at another exchange booth. You’ll get a favorable rate that’s as close to the real exchange rate as you’ll find.

Be Prepared for “Propinas” (Tips)

If you’re Spanish isn’t great, a propina is a tip. By the time you leave Cancun, you’ll definitely know the word. As a tourist destination, people’s incomes rely on the cash that tourism brings. That means just about everyone will expect a tip. That includes drivers, waiters, maids, and whomever else provides any sort of direct service. How much to tip depends on you, but figure about 10% of the bill, or a few bucks a day for things like housekeeping.

The Drinking Age is 18 in Mexico

Headed to Cancun for Spring Break? If you’re a college student, it may be that you aren’t old enough to drink in the United States (21 years), but in Mexico the drinking age in 18 years old.

Even so, there are some rules you should know. Open containers are illegal in public, and drinking on public streets and public drunkenness are also against the law.

For more tips on what’s legal/illegal in Mexico, you can see this helpful tip sheet from San Diego State University .

Be Ready to Negotiate With Vendors

Find a souvenir that you like? In most shops that price on the item is a starting point for negotiations. You’ll get a feel quickly for where you can haggle and where you can’t. Places that seem like the kind of stores you’d find back home usually have set prices. But smaller vendors you can negotiate with.

The rule of thumb is to offer about half of what the item is listed at, and then work yourself up from there.

Don’t feel comfortable negotiating? You’re on vacation. You shouldn’t do anything you don’t want to do. It’s ok to pay full price, just know that it might not be the best deal.

Make Sure You’re Drinking Purified Water… and Ice

Even today it’s a good idea to still drink purified water and ice when you are visiting Mexico. For the most part you don’t have to worry about it — it’s common knowledge so the restaurants go out of their way to either serve you a bottle or let you know that the water and ice is purified.

Still, if you aren’t sure, it doesn’t hurt to ask if both the drinking water and ice are purified. A little prevention by being careful and making sure can help you save a lot of stomach ache later on.

Be Prepared for the “Hawks” at the Airport

Maybe it’s a rude description of people just trying to make a living, but it can feel like you’re a mouse walking out of the Cancun airport with “hawks” circling you. That’s a nickname for all the folks selling everything from timeshares to taxi rides to rental cars.

The good news is that they will take no for an answer… but they will definitely make you say no again and again. Simply let them know you aren’t interested in their services with a polite “no, gracias” and they will usually move on to the next person.

There Are a Number of Great Day Trips From Cancun

There’s actually a lot to do and see in the areas outside the city. Want to visit a picturesque tropical island? Visit Isla Mujeres, just off the coast of Cancun. There’s Chichen Itza, Tulum, Akumal, cenotes, adventure parks, and more — all within a few hours (or much less) of the Hotel Zone.

If you’re anxious about driving in Mexico, don’t worry. There are tour companies that can arrange everything for you. Just look online to see what’s available.

You Might “Win the Prize” In the Airport

Ok, it’s not a real prize, so don’t get your hopes up. Passing through customs, each person will walk up to a red and green light. Hit a button and hope that you get green (most people do). If you get green, then you’ll pass right on through and leave the airport. Those who get the red light are stopped and have their bags inspected. Don’t think you did anything wrong or look suspicious. It’s a random draw as to who gets green and who gets red.

Keep Your Wits About You While Having a Good Time

Cancun is known for its nightlife, and if you are staying in the Hotel Zone, it’s not far to the bars and nightclubs. Go out, have a great time, and make some friends. But it’s important to keep your wits about you. Remember, you are in a foreign country and while it might seem Americanized, you are still bound to follow the rules and laws of Mexico. Don’t think that it is a “Disney” experience where nothing bad can happen or that the laws don’t really apply.

Safety Is Relatively Good in the Hotel Zone

You likely have heard about the sharp rise in violence in Cancun. Over the past several years, the murder rate has increased dramatically. This isn’t to scare you, but simply make you aware of what’s going on.

The good news is that the tourist areas of Cancun like the Hotel Zone have been largely spared of this violence. There have been a few isolated incidents, but nothing like is seen in other parts of town. Remember that millions of Americans each year take trips to the area and there are few problems as long as you stay in the safer tourist areas.

Be Ready For Guards with Big Guns

If can be a bit unnerving until you realize they are there to keep things safe. When you first arrive to Cancun, be ready to see military and police carrying some rather large assault-style weapons. This show of force is meant to dissuade anyone from trying anything funny and also to show tourists that the area is secure. But if you aren’t used to it, the weapons can come as a shock.

Visit the Museo Maya de Cancun

It’s doubtful that culture comes to mind when you think of a tourist mecca like Cancun, but the area is steeped in a lot of history. You can learn by visiting the Museo Maya de Cancun . A beautiful new facility that opened just a few years ago, the museum is highly rated on TripAdvisor . It features tons of Mayan artifacts that tell the history of the indigenous people. There is also more about the Mayan culture and actual ruins (San Miguelito) that you can explore. It’s an amazing gem that’s in the middle of the resorts.

You’re Going to Need a Passport (With at Least 6 Months Left)

Sorry, no way around it. The days of visiting Mexico without a passport are over. These days you’ll need a passport if you are flying into Cancun. And while you can get them in a short time frame before your trip, it’s best to have it before you plan your trip.

One more tip — be sure the passport doesn’t expire for at least six months after your trip. In fact, if your passport expires within the next year, go ahead and renew it before you go.

Be Ready for Rain Showers

Head to Cancun in the wet season that runs from May through October and you should be prepared for some rainy afternoons. During the summer there can be pop-up showers that drench an area, only to be sunny just a few minutes later. Want to avoid the rain? Try to plan your trip in February, March, or April, when the rainfall is only a few inches per month.

Know About Issues With Tainted Alcohol

It made headlines not that long ago, but has since gone quiet; we’re talking about the issue of tainted alcohol. A number of people reported to have a couple of drinks at resorts and then suddenly blacking out without any recollection of what had happened . After some newspapers in the United States began investigating, the authorities cracked down on supplies of tainted alcohol. Still, while the headlines have died down, it’s smart for you to know about issues with liquor. Try to drink from unopened bottles if you can. If not, go slowly and make sure you have others around that can help should something go wrong.

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47 Major Crimes Were Alleged on U.S. Cruise Ships in the First Three Months of 2024. Here’s What to Know

The best gift ever for people that love cruises this might be it…, nearly 100 passengers fall ill with stomach virus on princess cruise, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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7 things to do to protect yourself when heading to Mexico

• By Mr. Digital Fingers
• Apr 24, 2024

Traveling to Mexico offers a vibrant tapestry of rich history, stunning landscapes and diverse cultures. Whether you’re planning to bask on the sandy beaches of Cancun, explore the historic streets of Mexico City or delve into the mysteries of ancient ruins in Yucatan, it’s crucial to stay safe and prepared. Here, we’ll explore seven essential strategies to protect yourself and ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable Mexican adventure.

1. Travel insurance

Protect your trip.

Before setting foot on Mexican soil, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance . This should cover medical expenses, theft and trip cancellations. Health care in Mexico can be expensive for tourists, and with the unpredictability of travel, insurance is not just a safety net but a necessity.

2. Health precautions

Stay healthy and alert.

Vaccinations are your first line of defense against potential health risks. Consult with a travel health clinic a few months before your departure. Common recommendations include shots for hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies, depending on your itinerary. Additionally, always drink bottled water to avoid stomach ailments, a common issue for travelers.

3. Safety in transportation

Choose safe transit options.

When traveling between cities or within large metropolitan areas like Mexico City, opt for authorized taxi services or reputable ride-sharing apps. Avoid hailing taxis on the street, especially at night. For longer distances, consider using first-class bus lines, which are generally safer and more comfortable.

4. Secure your belongings

Keep your possessions safe.

Petty theft and pickpocketing can happen, particularly in crowded tourist spots. Use anti-theft bags or money belts, and always keep a digital copy of your important documents like your passport and travel insurance. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronic devices conspicuously.

5. Respect local laws and customs

Understanding cultural nuances.

Mexico’s rich culture comes with unique laws and customs. Familiarize yourself with local etiquette and legal regulations. For instance, drug offenses are taken very seriously, and public drunkenness is frowned upon in many areas. Respecting local traditions and laws not only keeps you safe but also enriches your travel experience.

6. Be aware of your environment

Stay informed and cautious.

Keep up with local news regarding weather conditions, political climate and other issues that might affect your safety. Register with your embassy upon arrival for updates and assistance in case of an emergency. Always let someone know your itinerary and check in regularly.

7. Learn basic spanish phrases

Bridge the language gap.

While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and help in unexpected situations. Phrases like “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?) or “Necesito ayuda” (I need help) are not just practical but also appreciated by the locals.

Embracing Mexico: A safe and memorable journey

Traveling to Mexico can be an unforgettable experience, filled with warm hospitality, gastronomic delights and breathtaking sights. By taking the right precautions, you can enjoy all that Mexico has to offer without unnecessary risks. From securing the right travel insurance to respecting local customs and staying aware of your surroundings, these seven tips will help safeguard your journey, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories in this beautiful country.

This comprehensive guide not only prepares you for common travel concerns but also equips you with practical tips to navigate your Mexican adventure safely and enjoyably. As you get ready to explore Mexico, remember that being well-prepared is the key to a fulfilling travel experience. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date, stay hydrated with bottled water and keep your belongings secure, blending vigilance with the excitement of exploration. So pack your bags, embrace these precautions and get ready for an incredible trip to Mexico. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a tranquil beach, exploring ancient ruins or enjoying the bustling nightlife, your adventure in Mexico awaits, promising rich experiences and cherished moments .

This story was created using AI technology.

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8 tips for Canadians travelling to Mexico in 2024, from entry rules to tipping etiquette

P lanning a trip to Mexico? Whether you want to explore Mayan ruins and hidden cenotes or lounge on white-sand beaches at an a ll-inclusive resort , there are certain things you'll want to keep in mind before embarking on your trip.

Canadians booking a vacation in Mexico will want to be aware of the country's entry and exit requirements, what travel documents they'll need and the current travel advice from the Government of Canada .

To help, we've laid out a few essentials you'll want to keep in mind, whether you're jetting off to Cancun, Mazatlan, Tulum or Mexico City.

From the ideal times to visit, to regions to avoid and requirements for your Canadian passport, here are eight tips for preparing for your next Mexican holiday.

Know when to visit

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Details: Before booking that trip to Mexico, you'll want to make sure you're going at a time with good weather.

However, the best time to visit varies depending on where in the country you're visiting. According to the U.S. News & World Report, if you're travelling to Cancun , the best time to visit would be from December to April, when you'll get to enjoy "near-perfect weather."

If you're visiting Mexico City , the best time to visit is between March and May, as the city's winters can be chilly and the summers can be rainy.

According to the Government of Canada, hurricanes usually occur in Mexico from mid-May to the end of November, so keep this in mind when booking your trip.

To figure out when to go, you can use a travel platform like KAYAK's Best Time To Travel Tool , which uses your origin, destination and length of trip to determine when you should travel and when to book for a great price.

Find out more

Know the entry requirements

Details: Canadians can visit Mexico as a tourist for up to 180 days, or six months, without needing a visa. An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico.

Travellers must have a valid passport that will be valid for the expected duration of their stay in the country. They must also obtain and complete a tourist card to enter the country.

According to the Government of Canada, if entering Mexico by air, you are advised to download your tourist card issued by Mexican officials upon entry.

Depending on your airport of entry, the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico, or you'll go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry into the country.

Once in the country, whether you entered via an E-gate or not, you will be able to access the digital tourist card online. You'll have 60 days to download it.

According to the government, travellers who don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival may face a fine, detention or even expulsion.

Take note of Canada's travel advice

Details: The Government of Canada continues to advise that Canadians exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

"Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico. Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity," says Canada's travel advisory for Mexico.

"There are high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco."

The government advises that travellers remain vigilant at all times while in the country, stay in tourist areas, be very cautious on major highways, avoid travelling at night and monitor local media closely.

Avoid drinking the tap water

Details: You may want to avoid the tap water while in Mexico.

According to Yale University's Environmental Performance Index , which scores countries based on how safe their drinking water is, Mexico's drinking water isn't as safe as that of other countries.

The index measures unsafe drinking water using the number of age-standardized disability-adjusted life-years lost per 100,000 persons in a country (also known as the DALY rate) due to exposure to unsafe drinking water.

A score of 100 indicates a country has among the lowest DALY rates in the world, while a score of 0 indicates a country is among the highest. In its most recent index , Mexico received a DALY score of 50.

The U.S. Government advises citizens that in many areas in Mexico, tap water is "not potable."

"Bottled water and beverages are safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks might be made using tap water," says the government.

The Government of Canada also advises travellers to avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing or showering.

CAA Quebec recommends that travellers purchase bottled purified water to drink and brush their teeth with instead of using tap water.

Know the currency rules

Details: The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso. According to the Government of Canada, in some parts of Mexico, particularly tourist destinations, hotels and other service providers may advertise prices in USD.

Sunwing recommends that travellers bring USD as it is widely accepted around the island.

If you plan to bring USD, be aware that there is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on their immigration status.

According to the Government of Canada, when carrying more than US$10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, cash, cheques, money orders or any other monetary instrument, you must declare the amount exceeding US$10,000.

Failure to do this is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

Know when to tip

Details: As in Canada, tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico.

According to group travel company Intrepid Travel , which operates tours to Mexico, Mexican service workers typically earn a low wage and rely on tips to earn a decent living.

The company recommends travellers leave 10 to 15 percent at restaurants (if the service charge is not already included), 5 to 10 percent of the hotel room cost for housekeepers, and a few dollars for porters, bartenders and guides.

According to Skyscanner , it's always best to tip in cash, using Mexican pesos rather than any foreign currency.

The company notes that while some all-inclusive resorts in Mexico have no-tipping policies, if an employee has excelled in their performance, a tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.

Taxi drivers and airport shuttle operations in Mexico will not expect a tip, according to the travel company. However, if your driver helps you with your luggage or the shuttle operator helps with your bags, it is courteous to tip around 10 pesos.

Avoid certain areas

Details: Canadians travelling to Mexico will want to take note of warnings to avoid certain parts of the country.

The Government of Canada continues to advise Canadians to avoid all travel to Guerrero State due to the region's precarious security situation.

The state is home to the Mexican city of Acapulco, a popular vacation spot.

According to the advisory, there is a threat of armed violence, banditry, and looting in cities and on roads in the state. The advisory excludes, however, the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco, where travellers should "exercise a high degree of caution."

There are also regional advisories in place warning Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to several Mexican states due to high levels of violence and organized crime, including Chihuahua, Colima, Coahuila, Durango, Michoacán, Nuevo León, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.

The Government of Canada also advises Canadians to avoid border areas, which often see higher criminal activity and violence, such as shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks.

The government recommends travelling to Mexico by air to avoid international land border crossings, particularly along the border with the U.S., in Ciudad Juárez, Nuevo Laredo and Reynosa.

Pay the tourism tax

Details: If travelling to the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico (including popular destinations like Cancun, Cozumel, Playa Del Carmen, Riviera Maya and Tulum), travellers will have to pay a tourist tax known as VisiTAX.

The payment of the VisiTAX is a legal requirement to leave the State of Quintana Roo, and is not included in the price of the plane tickets or any other service such as hotel reservations, vacation packages, ground transportation, or tours, according to Cancun Airport .

The tax costs US$20.99 (about CA$28.40) per person, and is to be paid online. Travellers can pay this fee prior to their arrival or during their stay, and must show their receipt at the airport before leaving Mexico.

According to Cancun Airport, your payment and your VisiTAX code will be synchronized with your travel documents for an easy transition through the airport checkpoints.

Payment can only be made online via the VisiTAX website , according to Air Transat .

Bon voyage!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.