Do you plan to go to Mexico? Read this Mexico Travelling tips before getting there.
Whether you’re looking for a place to escape the cold winter weather or you’re just interested in exploring a new destination, Mexico is a great choice and top destination for many people. This country has something to offer everyone, from stunning beaches and ancient ruins to vibrant cities and delicious food. Before packing your bags and heading off on an adventure in Mexico, make sure you read these 25 Mexico travelling tips!
Why traveling to Mexico?
First of all, Mexico is a relatively safe country to travel to. While there are some areas that are best avoided, in general, the country is welcoming and hospitable. Secondly, Mexico is very affordable. You can find great deals on accommodation, food, and activities. Lastly, Mexico is an incredibly diverse country with a rich culture and history.
What is the best season to travel to Mexico?
The best time to visit Mexico depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in spending time on the beach, then the months of December to April are ideal as this is when the weather is warmest. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, then May to November is a better option as this is the country’s low season.
How to get around in Mexico?
The best way to get around Mexico depends on your budget and where you’re going. If you’re visiting a large city like Mexico City or Cancun, then taking a taxi or Uber is the easiest option. However, if you’re planning on exploring more rural areas or smaller towns, then renting a car is the best way to go. Just be sure to brush up on your driving skills and knowledge of the local traffic laws before hitting the road!
What are some things to do in Mexico?
There are so many things to do in Mexico that it can be hard to know where to start! Here are just a few ideas:
-Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza or Tulum
-Explore one of Mexico’s many beautiful beaches
-Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes
-Go on a nature hike through one of the country’s many national parks
-Visit a local market to find souvenirs and try new foods
Budgeting for your trip to Mexico
As we mentioned before, Mexico is relatively affordable compared to other countries. However, it’s still important to budget carefully so that you don’t end up spending more money than you have. Here are a few tips:
-Accommodation: You can find great deals on hotels and Airbnbs if you book in advance.
-Food: Eating out can be affordable if you stick to street food and local restaurants.
-Activities: There are plenty of free things to do in Mexico, such as visiting parks and museums. However, if you’re interested in doing more expensive activities like scuba diving or zip-lining, then make sure to budget for those accordingly.
Our 20 best Mexico travelling tips
For a more comfortable reading, we’ll divide our Mexico Travelling tips into 4 different categories: General Tips, Solo Travel Tips, Transportation Tips and finally Food Tips.
Let’s begin:
Mexico Travelling tips: General Tips
Don’t drink the water in Mexico :
This is one of the most important Mexico travelling tips. The water in Mexico is not safe to drink, even if it’s been boiled. Stick to bottled water when you’re brushing your teeth, washing fruits and vegetables, and of course, drinking.
We have a great solution: Water to go bottle. This a bottle has several advantages: first, it filters up to 99.99% of particles according to the manufacturer. Second, easy to carry and does not take up much space. Third, think green. Instead of buying plastic water bottles every time, you’ll only use one.
Get Mexico travel insurance
Before you travel to Mexico, make sure you have a good travel insurance policy. This will help you if you get sick, need to be evacuated, or have your belongings stolen.
Double check the weather reports
The weather in Mexico can be very unpredictable. One day it could be sunny and hot, and the next day it could be raining. It’s always a good idea to check the weather reports before you travel, so you can pack accordingly.
Currency
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Most large businesses will accept US dollars, but you will get a better exchange rate if you use pesos.
Mexico museums are closed Mondays
Most museums in Mexico are closed on Mondays, so plan your sightseeing accordingly.
Buy tickets in advance
If you’re planning on visiting any of Mexico’s popular tourist attractions, such as the Pyramids of Teotihuacan or the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, then it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance. This will help you avoid long lines and sell-outs.
Be aware of the “gringo price”
As a foreigner, you may be charged more than locals for certain goods and services. This is commonly referred to as the “gringo price”. To avoid being overcharged, it’s always a good idea to ask around before you buy anything.
Haggle
Haggling is common in Mexico, so don’t be afraid to negotiate a better price, especially when you’re buying souvenirs or bargaining for a taxi fare.
Learn some basic Spanish phrases
While many people in Mexico speak English, it’s always helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases. Greeting someone with “Hola” (hello) and “Gracias” (thank you) will go a long way.
Don’t lose your FMM Card
If you’re traveling to Mexico as a USA , CANADA or EUROPEAN Citizen, you don’t need a Visa, but you will be given a FMM card (Forma Migratoria Multiple). This is basically a tourist visa and it allows you to stay in the country for up to 180 days. Be sure to keep this card safe, as you will need it when you leave Mexico.
Please check this web site for applying for a FMM Card.
Keep your belongings close
When you’re solo travel in Mexico City or any other city, it’s important to keep your belongings close to you. Pickpockets are common, so carry your purse or backpack in front of you and don’t put your phone away in public.
Get permission before taking photos of people
In Mexico, it’s considered rude to take photos of people without their permission. If you want to take a photo of someone, simply ask and most likely they will say yes.
Don’t wear expensive jewelry
This is a good rule of thumb for any solo traveler, but it’s especially important in Mexico. Wearing expensive jewelry will make you a target for thieves, so leave your diamond ring at home.
Apply sunscreen daily
The sun in Mexico is incredibly strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy.
Chat with locals for tips
One of the best ways to get insider information about Mexico is to chat with locals. They can give you tips on the best places to eat, drink, and visit.
Beware of fake police officers
There have been reports of fake police officers in Mexico, so if you’re stopped by someone claiming to be a cop, ask to see their badge and identification first. If they don’t have it, then walk away or call the real police.
Mexico Travelling tips: Solo Travel Safety Tips
Don’t stress over Mexico travel safety
solo travel in Mexico is perfectly safe. Just use your common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and you’ll be fine.
Let someone know where you’re going
Before heading off to explore Mexico, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. This will help them keep track of you in case something happens.
Check the U.S. State Department website
If you’re traveling to Mexico as an American, it’s a good idea to check the U.S. State Department website for any travel advisories that may be in effect.
Don’t flaunt your valuables
As with any solo travel destination, it’s important not to flaunt your valuables in public. This will only make you a target for thieves.
Register with the STEP Program
The STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You can register here .
Take a group tour
If you’re feeling nervous about solo travel in Mexico, then consider taking a group tour. This way, you’ll be able to explore the country with other like-minded travelers.
Download an offline map
Before heading out for the day, be sure to download an offline map of Mexico onto your phone. This will come in handy if you get lost or need to find your way back to your hotel.
Don’t accept rides from strangers
If a stranger offers you a ride, don’t accept it. It’s best to only take taxis or Uber when traveling around Mexico.
Know the emergency number
In case of an emergency, know that the emergency number in Mexico is 066. This number can be used for any type of emergency, including police, fire, and medical assistance.
Join online expat groups
If you’re looking for advice or information about solo travel in Mexico, then consider joining some online expat groups. This is a great way to connect with other travelers who can offer helpful tips and advice.
Mexico Travelling Tips: Money Tips
Use ATMs inside banks
When withdrawing money from an ATM in Mexico, always do it inside a bank. This will help you avoid getting scammed by someone who tampered with the machine.
Carry (some) cash
While many places in Mexico do accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash as well. This will come in handy for small purchases or when you want to haggle for a better price.
Hang on to small bills
Keep smaller bills on you for things like tipping or buying snacks from street vendors. It can be difficult to break larger bills, so it’s best to have smaller denominations on hand.
Get your pesos before you go
If possible, get your Mexican pesos before you arrive in the country. This way, you won’t have to worry about getting ripped off by a currency exchange kiosk at the airport.
Pay in pesos, not dollars
This one of our best Mexico travelling tips. When paying for things in Mexico, always do it in pesos. While some places may accept U.S. dollars, you’ll likely get a better exchange rate if you pay in pesos.
Budget for souvenirs
When budgeting for your trip to Mexico, be sure to set aside some money for souvenirs. From hand-painted pottery to colorful woven blankets, there are plenty of unique items to take home with you.
How to tip in Mexico
Tipping is not mandatory in Mexico, but it is appreciated. If you’re happy with the service you received, then a tip of around 15% is standard.
Mexico Travelling tips: Transportation Tips
Bargaining for a taxi
When taking a taxi in Mexico, it’s common to bargain for the price before getting in the car. This is because most taxis do not use meters. To avoid being overcharged, agree on a price with the driver before getting in the car.
Use Uber instead of taxis
Taxis are relatively affordable in Mexico, but they can be unsafe, especially at night. If you can, use Uber instead. It’s cheaper and you can see the driver’s rating before you get in the car.
Only take licensed taxis
If you do take a taxi, make sure it’s a licensed one. These will have a red license plate with white letters. Illegal taxis are often unmetered and can overcharge you.
Don’t ride motorcycles or ATVs
Riding a motorcycle or ATV is dangerous enough as it is, but when you add in the fact that many drivers in Mexico don’t follow traffic laws, it’s just not worth it. Stick to cars and buses when possible.
Rent a car with a reputable company
If you do decide to rent a car in Mexico, make sure you use a reputable company. Read reviews online before bookings and be sure to ask about their insurance policies.
Avoid public transport during rush hour
Don’t forget this Mexico travelling tips. If you can, avoid taking public transport during rush hour. This is when the buses and metro trains are often most crowded. Not to mention, it can be quite hot and sweaty waiting on a platform in the middle of summer.
Agree on the taxi fare before getting in
Before getting into a taxi, always agree on the fare with the driver. This will help you avoid being overcharged later on. If possible, ask for a receipt so you have proof of the agreed-upon price.
Mexico Food Tips
Test the salsa before eating it
If we have to choose one of the best Mexico travelling tips it will be this one.If you’re not used to spicy food, then it’s important to test the salsa before diving in. Some salsas can be quite fiery, so it’s best to start with a small amount and work your way up.
Be careful with street food
While street food can be delicious, it’s important to be careful when eating it. Make sure the vendor uses fresh ingredients and cooked everything properly. It’s also a good idea to avoid any foods
How to pick the right Mexico street food
When choosing street food, it’s important to pick vendors that look clean and well-organized. Avoid any vendor that doesn’t appear to be taking proper food safety precautions.
Sample the local cuisine
One of the best parts about travelling is trying new foods, so be sure to sample the local cuisine while you’re in Mexico. From tacos and tamales to enchiladas and mole, there’s plenty of delicious dishes to choose from.
Mexican food is regional
Did you know that Mexican food is actually quite regional? In fact, each state has its own unique cuisine. So, if you have the opportunity to travel around Mexico, be sure to try the different regional dishes.
Some common Mexican ingredients
-Tortillas
-Beans
-Rice
-Cheese
-Salsa
-Chili peppers
-Avocado
-Lime juice
What to drink in Mexico
Besides water and soda, there are a few other drinks you should try while in Mexico. Here are a few of our favorites: mezcal, horchata, agua fresca, and tepache. Cheers!
Conclusion
Mexico, what a great country! Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Mexico has something for everyone. Just be sure to follow these Mexico travelling tips and you’ll have a hassle-free trip. ¡Que viaje! (Have a good trip!)
Do you have any other Mexico travelling tips? Let us know in the comments below!
