Traveling abroad to Mexico is becoming increasingly popular among young Americans. However, regardless of where you’re from, it’s essential to know how to navigate a new environment. Key travel details, such as vaccine requirements, cell phone service, budget accommodation options, connecting with fellow travelers, emergency apps, and local etiquette, are crucial for avoiding common travel barriers and challenges.
Here is your checklist for traveling to Mexico. These are some of the most important things all travelers should know before reaching their final destination.
Passport and Visa Requirements: First things first: make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Most tourists receive a 180-day tourist permit upon arrival. No visa is needed for short visits, but keep your passport handy and have a return ticket in case it’s requested!
Vaccinations and Health: No special vaccinations are required for Mexico, but ensure your basic vaccines are up-to-date, including Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and B. Pack a mini first-aid kit with essentials—band-aids, aspirin, and any prescription medications. Check Travel Health Pro for any last-minute health advice.
Money Exchange: When traveling in Mexico, using pesos instead of U.S. dollars or credit cards can save you money and help you avoid unfavorable exchange rates. While many places accept U.S. dollars, pesos are preferred. Exchange your U.S. dollars for pesos before leaving the airport or at a local currency exchange office. You can also withdraw pesos from ATMs. When using an ATM, decline the offered exchange rate to avoid extra fees.
Cell Phone Service Abroad: Cell phone service abroad may not be as reliable as expected, and roaming fees can be high. Obtain a local SIM card from Telcel, Movistar, or AT&T Mexico at the airport or local shops. If you prefer eSIMs, Airalo can be downloaded to your phone, offering plans for Mexico that you can set up before you even land. It’s a convenient way to stay connected!
Affordable Accommodations: Common options for budget stays include Airbnb and Booking.com. For even more affordable or free options, consider sites like Worldpacker, Workaway, HostelWorld or Couchsurfing. These platforms offer opportunities for work exchanges, house-sitting, room sharing or staying with a local. Sites like WorldPacker and WorkAway requires an upfront sign-up fee, but most accommodations are free once you’re a member.
Local Customs and Etiquette: Mexican culture is warm and welcoming. Greet locals with a friendly “Hola,” “Buenos días,” “Buenas tardes,” or “Buenas noches,” depending on the time of day. A handshake or a kiss on the cheek in more familiar settings is common. Dress modestly when visiting churches and remember that tipping is customary—around 10-15% in restaurants. Don’t overdo it; tipping too much or tipping everyone is not necessary.
Language Barriers and Translation Apps: Not fluent in Spanish? No worries! Google Translate is helpful for translating text and speech, and iTranslate is another solid option. Learning a few basic phrases can be appreciated by locals, even if you’re not perfect!
Local Transportation Apps: Navigating Mexico is easier with local apps. Uber works in many major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Mérida. DiDi Rider and inDrive are also good options for taxis. Note that there are exceptions; for instance, you can’t get an Uber from Cancun airport—you’ll need to take a local taxi. In certain cities, Ubers may not be allowed on government property. For public transportation, Moovit and ADO apps assist with buses and metro routes. Download these apps before you go—they’ll save you a lot of headaches!
Safety Apps: Safety should be a top priority when traveling to Mexico. While the country is generally welcoming and vibrant, having the right safety apps can enhance your peace of mind. Google Maps helps you find your way around, locate nearby services, and avoid potentially unsafe areas, with real-time updates and offline capabilities. Although not an app, travelers should register with the U.S. Department of State for assistance with emergencies and local security alerts.
Connecting with Other Travelers: As mentioned in my ultimate guide to living in Playa, connecting through Facebook is a common way to meet other travelers. Once you’re established on Facebook, you’ll notice that many people also socialize and chat on WhatsApp. Apps like Tinder, Bumble, and other dating services can broaden your opportunities for meeting fellow travelers. These platforms often offer options for business and friendship connections as well, making them excellent alternatives to Facebook.
Common Knowledge Rules: You CANNOT drink the faucet water in Mexico, locals don’t drink it either. It’s customary to buy bottled water or have 20L purified or alkaline water delivered to your house. Although you can and will get sick from drinking the faucet water, taking showers and brushing your teeth is safe to do. Another common rules is DO NOT flush toilet tissue, you must dispose of it in the trash next to the toilet. The plumbing system is not the same as in the U.S and flushing toilet tissue can cause backup with the pipes.
Now that you know these valuable tips for traveling to Mexico, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you are connected and prepared. Have fun and stay safe!
