Mexico travel tips for first-timers: what to know

Mexico welcomes more than 45 million international visitors each year, making it the seventh most-visited country in the world. Covering almost 770,000 square miles (2 million sq km), it stretches from the arid Sonoran Desert in the north to the tropical rainforests of Chiapas in the south, with a huge range of landscapes, climates, and experiences in between.

The country is divided into 32 states, each with its own character. Mexico also has 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the most in the Americas. Its history spans around 3,000 years, from the great civilizations of the Maya and Aztec to the grand colonial architecture built under Spanish rule, shaping a cultural heritage that is as varied as its geography. 

Here's our round up of the best of our Mexico travel tips, so you have all the info you need to know before you go.

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

In general, December through April is the driest stretch and is the best time to visit Mexico. The weather’s usually comfortable—around 70-80°F (21-27°C) in the highlands and on the Pacific coast.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, which mainly affects the coasts. Inland areas like Mexico City and Oaxaca aren’t really impacted. May and November are in-between months with lower prices and smaller crowds, though you might get a few afternoon showers.

Mexico travel tip: If you’re hoping to see whales in Baja California, go between January and March. For monarch butterflies in Michoacán, November to March is best. Around Christmas and Easter, expect more local travelers, higher prices, and fully booked hotels - so plan ahead if you’re visiting then.

Is Mexico expensive?

It depends where you go and how you travel, but Mexico generally gives you good value - cheaper than Costa Rica, more expensive than Guatemala.

• Budget (400-800 MXN / $20-40 per day): You can get by on this if you stay in hostel dorms or simple guesthouses, eat at markets or street stalls, and stick to buses or colectivos for transport. Staying outside the main tourist zones helps stretch your pesos.
• Mid-range (1,200-2,400 MXN / $60-120 per day): This gets you a decent hotel or Airbnb, meals at mid-range restaurants, and the occasional guided day trip or rental car. It’s a comfortable level of travel that works for most people.
• Luxury (4,000+ MXN / $200+ per day): With this budget, you’re looking at high-end resorts, fancy dinners, and private guides. You’ll have access to more exclusive experiences - like chartering a boat or getting a private driver - but it adds up quickly.

In the end how much it costs will really come down to your Mexico itinerary.
 

Is Mexico safe for travelers?

Safety in Mexico really depends on where you're going. Most travelers have no problems, especially if you stick to tourist-friendly areas like Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, or San Miguel de Allende.

Like anywhere, it helps to stay aware: don’t flash valuables, use official taxis or ride apps, and avoid walking around unfamiliar neighborhoods at night. Some parts of the north and certain Pacific states have higher crime levels, so it’s worth checking current travel advisories before you go. 

Mexico travel tip: You’ll want to travel during the day when moving between cities, stay in areas that are well-frequented, and trust your gut if something feels off. Travel insurance is a good idea, and it doesn’t hurt to register with your embassy before the trip.

Understanding Mexico's laws

Mexico’s legal system works differently than in the U.S. or Canada. Even a small amount of drugs can get you into serious trouble. And while police corruption does exist, it’s not something most tourists encounter directly - but still, it’s smart to know your rights and keep your embassy’s info handy.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Medications: Bring proof for any prescription meds you’re carrying. Some common U.S. prescriptions are considered controlled substances in Mexico.
• Artifacts: Don’t take anything - not even rocks - from archaeological sites. It’s illegal and can result in heavy fines or worse.
• Drones: If you’re bringing one, be aware that flying near ruins, government buildings, or crowds usually requires a permit.
• Beaches: Alcohol is banned on some beaches, and if you’re visiting during turtle nesting season, there might be rules about when and where you can go.

Do you need a visa for Mexico?

If you’re from the U.S., Canada, the EU, or most Western countries, you’ll get a 180-day tourist card (FMM) when you arrive. Sometimes, though, immigration will write in a shorter stay - so check what they give you. Keep your FMM safe; you’ll need it to leave the country. If you lose it, you’ll have to go to an immigration office and pay a fine.

Staying longer

How to plan a trip to Mexico if you want to stay past your FMM date? You’ll need to go to an immigration office before it expires. The process involves paying a fee (around 600 pesos) and showing proof of funds. Some travelers just leave the country and come back to reset their tourist card, but that approach isn’t always reliable anymore - Mexican authorities are starting to crack down on people using tourist visas for long-term stays.
 

How to stay healthy while traveling in Mexico?

Our most important Mexico travel health tip: if you’re headed to Mexico City or any other high-altitude area, take it slow for the first couple of days. The elevation (7,350 feet) can hit hard. Stay hydrated, rest when needed, and wear sunscreen - especially at the beach, where the reflection from the water can sneak up on you.

Pharmacies and medical care

Pharmacies are easy to find, and many medications that need prescriptions elsewhere are available over the counter here. That said, antibiotics now require a prescription. Some chains like Farmacia Guadalajara or Farmacia del Ahorro even have in-house doctors who’ll see you for around 50-80 pesos.

If you need more serious care, private hospitals in tourist areas usually have English-speaking staff. They’re reliable, but can be pricey without insurance. In bigger cities, hospitals like Hospital Angeles or ABC (American British Cowdray) are well-regarded. 

Mexico travel tip: See our Mexico health travel tips for more about how to navigate the medical system in Mexico.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Mexico?

You won’t need any shots just to enter Mexico, unless you’re coming from a country where yellow fever is a risk.

Still, these are good to have:

• Hepatitis A and B: pretty important for travel anywhere
• Typhoid: especially if you’re eating a lot of street food or heading to rural areas
• Routine vaccines: make sure your MMR, tetanus, and flu shots are up to date
• Rabies: worth considering if you’ll be in remote areas or working with animals
• Malaria: not a big concern for most of Mexico, but a few rural areas in Chiapas and Oaxaca still have it.

Food and water safety

A very important Mexico travel tip is to not drink the tap water and avoid ice unless you know it was made with purified water - restaurant ice is usually fine (those cylindrical cubes with holes are a good sign). Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Street food is generally safe if it’s busy and the food is hot and cooked fresh. Pre-cut fruit is a gamble unless you know it was washed in clean water. Same goes for raw veggies and salads.

To help your stomach adjust, start with cooked foods and places that look clean and busy. It’s also a good idea to pack probiotics, anti-diarrheal meds, and rehydration salts just in case. 

Mexico travel tip: A purifying water bottle is definitely a good investment.

Cultural etiquette to know of before visiting Mexico

Respecting local rhythms goes a long way. Lunch is often the biggest meal of the day, and it happens around 2-4pm. Many businesses close during that time, especially in smaller towns. Trying to get errands done at 2:30? You might be met with a locked door and a “regreso pronto” sign.

Don’t assume everyone speaks English. In tourist zones, sure - but in taxis, markets, or small towns, it’s hit or miss. Learning a few basics (por favor, gracias, una cerveza por favor, la cuenta) really helps. 

In restaurants, tipping 10-15% is standard. It’s also common to tip gas station attendants (who pump your gas), baggers at grocery stores (often older adults or teens), and people who help you with your luggage. Keep a few small coins or 20-peso notes on hand - you’ll use them more than you think.

And try to avoid loud complaints. Even if something’s frustrating - slow service, missed reservations, unclear instructions - it’s best not to raise your voice or cause a scene. It’s not that people don’t care, it’s that confrontation is usually avoided. Staying calm and polite tends to get better results.
 

Is Mexico a good destination for families?

Kids are welcome just about everywhere in Mexico. You’ll see families dining out late into the evening and kids playing in public spaces. Many hotels let children stay for free, and larger resorts - especially in Cancun or Riviera Maya - have kids’ clubs, splash zones, and buffets with plenty of options. See our guide to how many days you need in Cancún.

Mexico City might not seem like an obvious pick, but it’s surprisingly family-friendly. You’ll find playgrounds in almost every neighborhood, wide sidewalks in places like Condesa and Polanco, and cultural spaces like Papalote Museo del Niño (an interactive children’s museum) and Chapultepec Park, which has paddle boats, a castle, and even a zoo. See our guide to how many days you need in Mexico City.

For more hands-on experiences, look for community-run craft workshops, chocolate tastings, or farm visits - Oaxaca, Chiapas, and parts of the Yucatán all have low-key options where kids can actually get involved.

Mexico travel tip: Mexican meal times run late. Restaurants may not even open for dinner until 7 or 8pm. If your kids eat earlier, grab snacks from a panadería (bakery) or corner shop to tide them over. And don’t count on high chairs or changing tables being available everywhere.

Where to stay and getting around

There’s no shortage of family-friendly places to stay. You’ll find everything from all-inclusives with on-site childcare to Airbnbs with kitchens where you can prep familiar meals. Some hotels have family suites or connecting rooms, and most will give you a crib or high chair if you ask.

If you’re traveling between cities, first-class bus companies like ADO and ETN are comfortable and have AC, movies, and bathrooms onboard. But if the trip is long, flying may be easier for kids who get restless. Renting a car gives you flexibility, but car seats can be tricky - they’re not always available, so it’s better to bring your own.

In cities, Uber is usually the safer bet over street taxis, and you can often request a larger car if needed. At beach destinations, it helps to stay somewhere right on the beach or with a shallow pool so you’re not hauling gear too far.

Essentials for parents

Pack more sunscreen than you think you’ll need - the sun here is strong, and familiar brands are pricey. If your kid has a favorite snack or specific baby formula, bring those too. Local options can be very different. Swim diapers are hard to find outside big tourist areas, so stock up ahead of time if you need them.

It’s a good idea to bring a basic first-aid kit, including a thermometer and children’s versions of common meds. 

Mexico travel tip: If your kid naps, a portable white noise machine can help drown out afternoon noise in busy hotels. 

What are the best places to visit in Mexico?

Mexico’s a big country, and each region feels different. You’ve got ruins, beaches, mountain towns, and huge cities - sometimes all within a few hours of each other.  Here’s a very condensed look at some of the best places to visit in Mexico.

Cities

Cities in Mexico are busy, colorful, and often walkable. You’ll see colonial buildings next to street murals, and corner cafés next to open-air markets. Each place has its own feel 

• Mexico City (Ciudad de México): Mexico’s capital is huge. You’ll walk past ancient ruins one minute and sleek modern buildings the next. Museums like the Anthropology Museum are well worth a few hours, and each neighborhood has its own character - from laid-back Coyoacán, where Frida Kahlo lived, to Roma Norte, which is full of good food and independent shops. On weekends, locals head to Xochimilco early for canal rides with snacks and music. In the evening, Juárez has low-key mezcal bars - some of them hidden behind unmarked doors. See our favorite Mexico City itinerary.
• Oaxaca (Oaxaca de Juárez): A walkable, historic city that centers around food, art, and tradition. The local markets are the best way to try regional dishes, and you'll find mezcal everywhere - from tasting rooms to roadside vendors. The Monte Albán ruins are just outside town, and the ethnobotanical garden downtown is surprisingly peaceful. 
• Guanajuato: Built into the hills, this small city is colorful and full of winding alleyways. Cars drive through tunnels beneath the city, while above ground, narrow pedestrian streets connect plazas, staircases, and rooftop cafés.
   

Beaches and islands

Mexico’s beaches are completely different depending on where you go. The Caribbean side has calm water and white sand, while the Pacific coast is more rugged, with bigger waves and fewer crowds in some places.

• Riviera Maya (Playa del Carmen to Tulum): Along the Caribbean coast, this stretch runs from busy Playa del Carmen to more laid-back Tulum. Fifth Avenue in Playa is packed with shops and restaurants, while Tulum is known for its beachside ruins and boutique hotels. Akumal, in between, is a good place to snorkel with sea turtles. If you're looking for fewer people, head south - Xcacel Beach is quieter and undeveloped.
• Puerto Escondido (Oaxacan Coast): Known for its surf, this town has different beaches for different moods. Zicatela draws experienced surfers, La Punta is good for beginners, and Carrizalillo is calmer and better for swimming. If you’re around during a full moon, head to Manialtepec Lagoon at night - it’s about 20 minutes west - for a chance to see the water light up with bioluminescence.
• Isla Holbox: Just northwest of Cancun, Holbox is a quiet island where people get around by bike or golf cart. The beaches are shallow and calm, and it’s a good place to see flamingos or swim with whale sharks between June and September. Punta Cocos is less crowded than the main beach and is a good place to catch the sunset - especially if seaweed is affecting other parts of the coast.
   

Nature and adventure

The landscape shifts a lot as you move through Mexico - from dry desert in the north to jungle in the south and mountains all through the middle. You’ve got places to hike, swim, climb, and float, depending on where you are. Elevation makes a difference too - some areas sit at over 7,000 feet (2,100 meters).

• Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre): This series of deep canyons in northern Mexico is actually larger than the Grand Canyon, and the best way to see it is by taking the El Chepe train. The route stops at scenic places like Divisadero and the small town of Creel, where you can hop off for a night or two. If you're up for more of a trek, the trail down to Batopilas takes you all the way to a subtropical canyon floor and a quiet old mining town. 
• Monarch Butterfly Reserve (Santuario Mariposa Monarca): Each winter, millions of monarch butterflies gather in the mountains of Michoacán. The best chance of seeing them is between November and March. El Rosario and Sierra Chincua are the most reliable places to visit. A great pick if you're in Mexico with kids.
• Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: Just south of Tulum, this protected area includes everything from tropical forest to coral reef. You might see jaguars, manatees, and hundreds of bird species. For a quieter experience, head to the Muyil ruins and take a boat through the ancient canals.
• Sumidero Canyon (Cañón del Sumidero): This canyon in Chiapas cuts between steep cliffs that tower up to 3,000 feet. Boat tours from Chiapa de Corzo give you a close-up look at the river, where crocodiles and monkeys are easy to spot. But don’t skip the canyon rim either - there are five viewpoints (miradores) worth the drive. 

Historic and religious sites

Mexico’s history is layered - indigenous civilizations, colonial rule, and religion have all shaped what you see today. You’ll come across ancient ruins, churches built over old temples, and festivals that mix Catholic and Indigenous traditions. 

• Teotihuacan (Ciudad de los Dioses): Located just outside Mexico City, this massive archaeological site includes the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Go early when it opens to beat the crowds and the heat. Most people miss the Tepantitla compound, where you’ll find some of the best-preserved murals.
• Chichen Itza: This is one of the most well-known Maya ruins, famous for the El Castillo pyramid and its massive ball court. At night, there’s a sound and light show that a lot of people skip - but it gives a totally different view of the ruins. Cenote Ik Kil is nearby if you want to take a swim after exploring.
• Palenque: These jungle-covered ruins in Chiapas feel a little more off the beaten path. You’ll hear howler monkeys in the trees and see structures covered in carvings and glyphs. If you're up for a bit of walking, head out to Group C. It’s a bit of a hike but usually empty, and the ruins are just as impressive as the main complex.
• Guadalajara Cathedral: This landmark sits at the center of the city, surrounded by four plazas that act like a gathering place for locals. The building itself is a mix of styles, from Gothic to Baroque.
   

How long to spend in Mexico?

If it’s your first time, a 10 to 14 days Mexico itinerary is a good starting point. That gives you enough time to adjust, see two different parts of the country, and not feel rushed. You might start with a few days in Mexico City-seeing a few neighborhoods, museums, and trying food (see our guide to and then fly out to a beach or a colonial city like Oaxaca. It’s worth remembering that things in Mexico tend to run on a slower pace. Meals are long, and plans shift.

A week-long Mexico itinerary gives you enough time to explore one region well. Maybe Mexico City with a side trip to Puebla or Guanajuato. Less than a week usually means a lot of time on the road and not enough soaking things in.

What's the best way to plan a Mexico itinerary?

Start by jotting down a few things you’re really excited to see or do. You don’t need a detailed plan yet - this is just a way to figure out what’s important to you and how far apart things are. Begin with a couple of must-dos, then you can fill in the rest once you get a better sense of how much time you have and how the logistics work out.

Choose your Mexico style

Mexico isn’t one-size-fits-all. You’ll have to choose between Caribbean beaches, Pacific surf towns, colonial cities, archaeological ruins, mountains - and more. It helps to decide early what kind of experience you’d like to focus on. Don’t try to squeeze in too much - distances can be long, and Mexico is better when you slow down and take your time.

Factor in travel time

Mexico is bigger than most people expect, and getting around can eat into your itinerary. In some cases, it makes sense to fly between regions. 

Domestic airlines like Volaris, Viva Aerobus, and Aeromexico often have flights between $50-$150 if you book early, but leave room in your schedule for airport transfers. 

First-class buses like ADO and ETN are a solid option too - comfortable, with reclining seats and onboard bathrooms. Overnight buses between major cities can save you both time and money. In areas like the Yucatán or central Mexico, driving or taking a bus can work well thanks to good road connections. But for places like the Pacific coast, you’ll probably need to fly unless you’ve got a lot of time.

Can I drive in Mexico?

You can, and in some areas it’s a great way to get around. Just know that it’s not always straightforward. City traffic can be intense, road signs aren’t always clear, and police stops - real or questionable - are common in touristy places. Car rentals typically run $25-$50 a day, but that doesn’t include mandatory insurance, which can double the cost.

Toll roads (cuotas) are fast and well-maintained but pricey. Free roads (libres) go through towns and take a lot longer. If you’re going to drive, it makes the most sense in regions like the Yucatán or Baja California where distances are reasonable and roads are in better shape.

Book essentials first

Start with your international flight - Mexico City, Cancun, and Guadalajara are usually the easiest and cheapest to fly into, especially if you’re coming from the U.S. Booking 2-3 months in advance tends to give you the best deals. 

Try to avoid traveling around Mexican holidays when prices jump. Domestic flights are affordable, but expect to pay extra for bags and other basics. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend ones.

When it comes to Mexico accommodation, you’ll find everything from $10 hostel dorms to luxury resorts that go well into the thousands.

Mexico travel tip: For peak travel times - December to April - or big events like Day of the Dead or Guelaguetza, it’s smart to book at least 3-6 months ahead.
 

How to slow travel in Mexico?

Slow travel fits easily into daily life in Mexico. Things here tend to move at their own pace. If you’re staying a while, it’s easy to settle in. Many long-term travelers base themselves in places like San Miguel de Allende, Playa del Carmen, or Oaxaca, often taking Spanish classes and finding short-term rentals through local Facebook groups.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, towns like Mazunte, Sayulita, or Bacalar draw in slow travelers with laid-back energy, affordable rentals, and a strong sense of community.

Some travelers house-sit through TrustedHousesitters, which often means taking care of pets while living in someone’s home. Others volunteer through WWOOF Mexico on organic farms, helping out a few hours a day in exchange for meals and a place to stay.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Mexico?

Supporting local communities goes a long way. Buy your produce and souvenirs at markets instead of big chains. Choose family-run restaurants and work with local Mexico travel experts when booking tours. 

If you're visiting natural areas like Mexico's cenotes or going whale watching, look for eco-certified guides. Skip any attractions that use animals for entertainment - things like dolphin shows or photo ops with sedated animals are harmful, even if they seem common.

Plastic waste is a problem in many parts of Mexico, so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter. 

When choosing places to stay, pick locally-owned accommodations over international chains, and tip well - tourism supports a lot of families. Most importantly, try to learn about the country beyond the usual headlines. Mexico is complex, beautiful, and sometimes misunderstood. Being open, respectful, and curious makes for better travel - for everyone involved.
 

Local experiences

If you're looking to do more than just pass through, Mexico makes it easy to connect with people and traditions - especially in smaller towns and villages where cultural practices are still part of daily life (which are often some of the Mexico's best vacation spots).

In the villages outside Oaxaca City, places like Teotitlán del Valle are known for their Zapotec weaving traditions. Some family-run workshops - like those of the Vida Nueva cooperative or Isaac Vásquez García’s studio - welcome visitors for short dyeing or weaving sessions. You’ll learn about natural pigments from cochineal and indigo, and how patterns relate to Zapotec identity.

In Michoacán, the Purépecha communities around Lake Pátzcuaro - especially Tzintzuntzan, Janitzio, and Santa Fe de la Laguna - prepare for Day of the Dead with days of altar-building, flower arranging, and cooking. Some local tour guides (often based in Pátzcuaro town) work with families who are open to sharing parts of the tradition with respectful visitors.

In Chiapas, the Na Bolom Cultural Center in San Cristóbal de las Casas collaborates with nearby Tzotzil and Tzeltal communities to organize cultural experiences that include talks or workshops on plant medicine, temazcal (sweat lodge) ceremonies, or local food traditions. You’ll get background on the community before visiting, and Na Bolom can arrange respectful, small-scale visits.

In the Yucatán, Maya-led cooperatives in towns like Yokdzonot (about 12 miles / 20 kilometers from Chichén Itzá) run cooking workshops that include tortilla-making, pit-roasting meat for cochinita pibil, and preparing sauces from local herbs. The Yokdzonot cenote cooperative, run by women from the village, is a good place to start - they sometimes include meals or cooking experiences alongside cenote visits.

How to handle money and payments in Mexico?

Cash is still king in most of Mexico, especially once you're outside major cities or tourist-heavy areas. It's a good idea to carry pesos in small denominations since a lot of vendors won’t be able to break large bills.

For safety, use ATMs that are attached to banks and try to go during the day while the bank is open. You can expect a fee of about 30-80 pesos per withdrawal. Banks like Santander and HSBC usually charge less than others.

Mexico travel tip: Some restaurants and shops will add a 3-5% fee if you pay with a credit card, and many smaller places - including street stalls, markets, and local buses - are cash only. If you end up with big bills (like 500 or 1000 pesos), head to a chain like OXXO to get change.

What are the most common scams?

A few scams come up regularly, especially around airports and touristy neighborhoods.

At airports, taxi drivers may claim their meters are broken and quote you inflated prices. Instead, look for the official taxi booths inside the terminal where you pay a fixed rate upfront - or use Uber, though you'll usually need to meet them at the departures level.

You might also get invited to a free tour or lunch in exchange for attending a "presentation" - these are almost always timeshare pitches that drag on for hours. On the beach or street, just say no.

At ATMs, card skimming is a known issue. Avoid freestanding machines on the street. Use bank ATMs when possible, check for anything loose around the card reader, and cover your hand when you enter your PIN.

In nightlife areas, there are bar scams where someone friendly invites you for drinks, then you’re hit with a massive bill and aggressive staff. Don’t follow strangers to second locations, no matter how charming they seem.
 

What food should I try in Mexico?

Food in Mexico changes a lot from region to region, and local ingredients really shape what’s on the menu. You’ll see corn, beans, and chiles just about everywhere, but how they’re used is what makes things interesting. 

• Tacos al Pastor, Mexico City: Inspired by Lebanese shawarma, these tacos are made from pork marinated in achiote and cooked on a vertical spit, usually with pineapple on top.
• Cochinita Pibil, Yucatán Peninsula: A slow-roasted pork dish marinated in sour orange and achiote, wrapped in banana leaves, and traditionally cooked underground.
• Mole Negro, Oaxaca: This deep, smoky sauce uses over 30 ingredients - dried chiles, chocolate, spices - and is usually served over turkey or chicken. It takes hours (sometimes days) to make, and every family has their own version.
• Pozole, Guerrero or Jalisco: A hearty soup made with hominy and pork or chicken, served in green, white, or red versions depending on the region. It’s topped with shredded lettuce, radish, oregano, and lime.
• Chiles en Nogada, Puebla: A seasonal dish made with poblano peppers stuffed with a meat-and-fruit filling, topped with a walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds. It’s usually served from August to October when the ingredients are fresh. The colors represent the Mexican flag.

Do I need a SIM card in Mexico? How do I stay connected?

Staying connected in Mexico is pretty straightforward. Telcel has the widest coverage, including in more rural areas where other carriers can drop off. You can grab a SIM card at any OXXO convenience store or at a Telcel shop. It usually costs around 150 pesos and comes with some credit to get you started.

If you're coming from the U.S., check your plan first. AT&T includes free roaming in Mexico, and T-Mobile works too, though the data can be slower. eSIMs like Airalo are convenient and work well in cities, but don’t count on them in remote areas.

WiFi is easy to find in most cafés, restaurants, and hotels, but the speed and reliability can vary. It's a good idea to download offline maps from Google Maps or Maps.me before heading out, especially if you're going to rural or nature-heavy places. Also, download WhatsApp - it's how most people in Mexico communicate.

Learn basic Spanish phrases before you go

You’ll definitely get by in touristy areas with English, but learning some basic Spanish goes a long way. It’s not just practical - it shows respect and often makes interactions more enjoyable.

Google Translate can be a lifesaver, so download it for offline use, but try Spanish first. People generally appreciate the effort and are happy to help. 

Mexico travel tip: If you’ve got time, consider taking a short Spanish course when you arrive. Cities like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, and San Miguel de Allende have affordable language schools, some with homestay options for more immersion.

Pack for diverse climates and activities

Mexico’s climate varies a lot, so it’s smart to pack for all kinds of weather. Even in summer, it can get chilly in the highlands at night or on over-air-conditioned buses. Bring layers - light clothes for the heat, a jacket for cool evenings, and something waterproof in case of rain.

Comfortable walking shoes are key for exploring cities with uneven or cobblestone streets. Sandals are handy for the beach, and a dry bag comes in useful for cenote trips or boat rides. Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent are a good idea, especially since they tend to cost more if you buy them locally.

If you’re planning to visit churches or rural communities, pack some modest clothing. A small portable fan can also be a lifesaver in places without air conditioning.