Essential Things to Know About Mexico For First-Time Travelers

If the thought of traveling to Mexico makes you nervous, this article is for you – especially if it’s your first time visiting. Mexico is one of the easiest international destinations for U.S. travelers, but like any country, there are a few important things to know about Mexico before you go.

Understanding how things work in Mexico – from entry requirements and transportation to money and everyday logistics – helps you avoid common mistakes and feel more at ease once you arrive. A little preparation goes a long way. Let’s break it down.

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Is Mexico Safe?

Mexico seems to be in the news a lot lately so let’s get this out of the way now: yes, Mexico is generally safe for travelers. The majority of cartel crime in Mexico does not affect tourists. Millions – 25 million to be precise – of U.S. visitors enjoy worry-free vacations every year.

I’ve been traveling to Mexico for years – since I was 15 years old. In fact, I’ve visited over half of the Mexican states. I’ve traveled for pleasure, for work, by myself, with my husband, with my daughter and I’ve never felt unsafe or afraid in Mexico.

That being said – Mexico like plenty of other places – does have a crime problem and sometimes tourists get taken advantage or are affected by violence. To protect yourself, take basic precautions – keep-up on current events, stick to well-traveled areas and always, always be aware of your surroundings.

Don’t buy drugs, don’t drink too much and check the U.S. State Department for travel warnings. By following these common-sense tips, you can focus on exploring, having fun and enjoying everything Mexico has to offer. You’ll find more tips and details about safety in Mexico, in my full article Is Mexico Safe for Travel?

Mexico Entry Requirements

Valid passports are required for travel to Mexico but U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for stays under 180 days. While Mexico itself doesn’t require the passport to be valid for six months beyond your trip – like some countries do – airlines could enforce this policy and deny boarding if your passport doesn’t meet their standards.

A tourist card, or a FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple), is still required but this is processed electronically now and you barely even notice. For those that have traveled to Mexico before, you might remember the flight attendants handing out a form to fill out on the plane.

That was a FMM – or your tourist card. Upon arrival, you gave the form to the immigration officer and then you held on to a slip of paper that was oh so easy to lose. Now the officer simply stamps your passport and fills in the amount of days you are allowed in the country and the cost is included in your plane ticket.

While this is the process at most large airports, you might still encounter a small airport – as they work through the kinks – that uses a paper FMM. Then, unfortunately, you’ll need to hold onto that piece of paper until you leave. And crossing the border on foot still requires a paper FMM. (Article coming soon)

Mexico Weather & When to Go

With seven climate zones, Mexico’s weather varies by region so it’s really important to check the forecast for the area you are visiting. For example, Mexico City’s cool, high-altitude climate feels completely different from the tropical coasts.

That being said most regions experience a dry season that runs from November through April, and a rainy season from May through October. And hurricane season occurs from June to November, with the highest risk from August to October.

Again, keep in mind that the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo, and the Caribbean coast, including Cancún and the Riviera Maya, can feel very different at the same time of year. Even in Baja, the weather on the western side of the peninsula may differ from the eastern. I spent May on the west side of Baja Sur and experienced cool mornings and needed a jacket at night.

As for crowds – peak tourism generally falls between December and April. Once again – you’ll want to look at busy time in the area you’ll be visiting since things like Spring Break and Dia de los Muertos affect some regions more than others.

Transportation & Getting Around

Mexico is a huge country, so the transportation options will vary by region but here’s a few general tips:

Flying in Mexico

Domestic flights in Mexico are often inexpensive, especially between major cities and resort zones. Airlines like Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus are the big three. Aeroméxico can be compared to airlines like Delta – in fact they are Delta partners – and American Airlines.

Volaris and Viva Aerobus are lower cost carriers. Even so, in my opinion, Volaris is far superior to Spirit or Frontier in the States and offers far more amenities – and more room – without feeling like you are being nickeled and dimed to death.

Tickets can be booked online and both Volaris and Viva Aerobus have good apps that I highly recommend using especially if you’re traveling with only a carry-on. Doing this can save you so much time at crowded Mexican airports.

Airport Transfers

In nearly every major destination, pre-arranged transportation is the most convenient and stress-free option, though it’s usually more expensive. Taxis at airport terminals are heavily regulated, so they’re also a good, safe choice. Just be sure to avoid random solicitations in the arrivals hall – often called the “shark tank”.

Buses in Mexico

Mexico’s excellent bus system. Buses like ADO and Primera Plus are clean, reliable, and comfortable – often with reserved seating, in seat entertainment and Wi-Fi. I’ve made several trips on Mexican buses and would not hesitate to do it again. It’s nice to let someone else do the driving for once.

Most airports also offer public buses and colectivos but these can be a bit confusing for first-time visitors. Routes may not be clearly marked, schedules can vary and luggage space is limited. If it’s your first trip to Mexico – or you’re arriving late at night – you’ll probably feel more comfortable with a pre-booked transfer or an airport taxi.

Rideshares

Apps like Uber, DiDi, and InDrive work in many cities. In some places – like Cancun – pick-up rules around airports can be messy – since Ubers are not allowed on federal property – but they work great for getting around town.

And this could all change. The governor of Jalisco state – where Puerto Vallarta is located – recently negotiated to allow Ubers to operate from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, or the Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

I generally stick to Uber – since I get a monthly credit with my American Express Platinum card. Uber in Mexico has the same safety measures that you have in the states. You know the driver’s name, the make and model of the vehicle, the license plate and there’s a PIN that must be verified before leaving the pick-up spot.

Driving in Mexico

Renting a car and driving in Mexico is doable and a lot of fun especially if you’re exploring one region. Toll roads are well maintained and road trips can be a fun way to see smaller towns and places that don’t have good transportation options.

Be aware that U.S. auto insurance usually doesn’t cover Mexico. You’ll need Mexican liability insurance if driving your own car, which can be purchased online before your trip. More on that in my post Driving in Mexico article coming soon.

You should avoid driving after dark especially in rural areas – it’s not uncommon for cows to roam free. Also know that gas stations are not self-serve and have attendants so tips are appreciated. Another need to know about Mexico and driving is that speed bumps (“topes”) are everywhere.

Understanding Mexican Currency & Paying for Things

Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN). The current exchange rate is 17.96 MXN to 1 USD and 13.03 MXN to 1 CAD. (Dec 2025) but keep in mind the rate can fluctuate daily.

While U.S. dollars are accepted in some tourist zones like Cancun and Playa del Carmen – you’ll even see signs saying this – pesos will always get you better prices, especially at local restaurants, markets, and taxis. Plus you won’t get change back in dollars and the exchange rate won’t be what you get at an ATM change house.

Best practices for exchanging money in Mexico:

• Use ATMs at banks (not random convenience store ATM’s) for the lowest fees.
• Avoid exchanging money at airports unless absolutely necessary – the rates are poor.
• Carry small bills; many places can’t break large ones.

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities in Mexico. However, Visa and Master Card are more commonly used than American Express and Discover. To make sure you can actually use your credit card in Mexico, you should notify your bank before travel so your card doesn’t get flagged.

Tipping in Mexico: What to Expect

Tipping is a normal part of daily life in Mexico but it can be tricky. Knowing a few basics helps will help you avoid awkward moments yet still show appreciation for good service. The amount you should tip also depends on who you ask. Generally, tourists from countries with more of a tipping culture usually tip more.

But, when I ask my Mexican friends what they suggest, the percentages are not on par with what’s suggested below. In fact, many Mexicans blame gringos for the higher tips now expected in many touristy areas. For years, one Mexican friend has told me to round up but that just feels wrong in my American tipping mind.

Anyway, here’s a simple guide for how to tip in Mexico gathered from the internet and AI. Feel free to adjust accordingly with what you see fit.

• Restaurants: 10–20% of the bill, depending on service
• Bars: 10–20% or 10–20 pesos per drink/$0.50–$1 USD per drink
• Hotel staff: 20–50 pesos/$1–$3 USD per day for housekeeping; 20–50/$1–$3 USD per day per bag for bell staff
• Airport porters: 20–50 pesos/$1–$3 UD per bag
• Grocery store baggers: 5–10 pesos/$0.25–$0.50 USD (many are volunteers)
• Parking attendants / gas station attendants: 5–20 pesos/$0.25–$1 USD depending on service
• Tour guides: 10–20% for private tours; 50–100 pesos/$2–$5 USD per person for group tours
• Taxi drivers: Not required, but rounding up is appreciated
• Rideshares (Uber/DiDi): 10–20 pesos/$0.50–$1 USD or a small percentage tip

Food & Health Safety in Mexico

Mexico’s food scene is incredible – tacos, churros and fresh juices are everywhere. When looking for places to eat, chose a spot where you see the locals eating and you’ll rarely go wrong. To avoid any unwanted surprises choose food stands with steady foot traffic. No one wants food that’s been sitting around.

Water in Mexico is much better now and most resorts and hotels use filtered, or purified water, for drinking and ice but to be extra careful, drink bottled water. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to avoid lettuce, other washed vegetables and uncooked food.

It’s also always a good idea to have medications like Imodium, Pepto Bizmo or electrolyte packets just in case. In fact, an emergency first-aid kit is super important for traveling. And don’t forget that sun exposure is no joke in Mexico – pack reef-safe sunscreen and a hat.

Southerner Says: Bottled water is readily available but bringing a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter is very eco-friendly and you’ll have hydration on the go.

Travel Insurance & Healthcare

Mexico has excellent medical care and even though it can cost less in Mexico than in the United States a minor visit or emergency can be costly out-of-pocket so travel insurance is highly recommended. Providers like SafetyWing offer affordable coverage that includes flight delays, lost luggage and health emergencies.

For shorter stays and getaways, comparing different travel insurance policies on TravelInsurance.com is a smart way to shop around for the right kind of coverage needed for peace of mind and protection.

Language & Communication

Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in some tourist destinations. Still, learning a few simple Spanish phrases goes a long way and locals always appreciate the effort. Here’s five super simple phrases to learn:

• Hola — hello
• Gracias — thank you
• Cuánto cuesta? — how much is it?
• La cuenta, por favor — check, please
• Dónde está…? — where is…?

Customs & Etiquette

Understanding a few cultural notes about Mexico can help things go much more smoothly: Mexican people are known for being warm and friendly, so offering a simple greeting is always a good start.

You’ll also notice that life moves at a slower, more relaxed pace, so embracing that rhythm will make your trip smoother. One small practical note: in some older buildings or rural areas, toilet paper goes in the trash rather than the toilet, and signs will usually tell you when that’s the case.

Staying Connected

Staying connected in Mexico is easy, but roaming charges can add up quickly if you rely on your U.S. phone carrier. Many travelers choose an eSIM like Airalo or GigSky to access affordable local data without having to track down a physical SIM card after landing.

You’ll also find reliable Wi-Fi in most hotels, resorts, and cafés. WhatsApp – one of my 5 Must-Have Apps for Traveling in Mexico – is the go-to communication tool throughout the country. It’s commonly used for messaging and calls, as well as booking tours, confirming reservations and staying in touch with drivers and guides.

Final Things to Know About Mexico Your First Time

Mexico is so welcoming and warm – it’s a county full of incredible people, culture, food and landscapes. You’re going to love it! And the more you know what to expect the more confident and better equipped you’ll be to enjoy every moment.

If you’ve made it this far and planning a Mexican vacation still feels overwhelming, I can help with that too! As a travel agent and advisor, I work with travelers to create personalized itineraries and resort stays all over Mexico – from Baja to Cancun and even Mexico City. Just fill out this form and I’ll be in touch.

See you on the road!