Explore the 9 Best Travel Tips for Mexico

Ready for your next adventure in one of the most beautiful countries in the world? Mexico is among the top destinations for travelers from around the globe. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was welcoming over 40 million visitors a year — and while that number dipped in 2020, it’s rising again quickly.

Mexico is a popular destination for international guests for a reason — the opportunities for adventure are endless. From relaxing beaches and cities rich with culture to breathtaking mountain vistas and volcano hikes, everyone will find something to love when visiting Mexico. Check out these travel tips to get the most out of your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Follow These 9 Tips for a Dream Trip to Mexico

If you want to turn your vacation into an adventure you’ll remember forever, follow these travel tips for Mexico.

1. Plan Your Priorities

Mexico is a large country with unending opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Maybe you want to spend your vacation lounging on the resort beach, soaking up the sun. Or maybe you’re a more adventurous type and you’ve already researched the most challenging hikes up Mexico’s beautiful peaks. Most people are probably in between these two extremes.

Whatever your goals, make sure you establish them ahead of time. Determine the sights you want to see and how you’ll get there. For example, Mexico City is more than a quick drive away from Cancun — it’s a full day of travel. You shouldn’t expect to see everything at once on your first trip.

2. But Go With the Flow

While you should know where you’re going and have a general idea of what you want to see, don’t be afraid to seize opportunities as they arise. Mexico is a laid-back country and you’re in charge of your schedule. Try new things you may not have expected, like eating delicious street tacos or taking a hot air balloon tour over the Teotihuacan Valley.

Remember, you’re on vacation! Spend the evening chatting with loved ones or new friends as you watch the gorgeous sunset on the beach. When it’s hot out, take a mid-afternoon siesta so you can seize the rest of the day and night. Relaxation is a key part of a successful trip.

3. Brush Up On Your Spanish

Spanish is Mexico’s national language, and the country is home to more Spanish speakers than anywhere else in the world — over 120 million people as of 2021. It’s a vibrant language with a rich cultural heritage.

While fluency isn’t a requirement, it can be extremely helpful to know a few Spanish words and phrases while traveling in Mexico. Speaking and understanding basic greetings, questions and directions will help you navigate your way through the country, whether you’re looking for a bathroom, placing an order at a restaurant or interested in buying souvenirs from local vendors.

You can use online resources like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone to brush up on your Spanish or even take an in-person class if you want to immerse yourself in the language.

4. Explore Outside Your Resort

While the luxurious resorts are a major draw for tourists visiting Mexico, there’s more to the country than pools and pristine beaches. The real adventures await you outside of your hotel.

Mexico’s cities offer everything you could want from an urban center. Cancun is known for its nightlife and party scene, while San Miguel de Allende and Hidalgo have beautiful architecture and views. You could spend every day exploring the massive capital, Mexico City, and never run out of things to do.

You can take day trips to ancient Mayan ruins throughout the country or explore one of Mexico’s many national parks, which include volcanoes, lakes and beaches. 

5. Talk to Locals

The most important part of any country? The people who live there. Getting to know the locals on your trip to Mexico can create memories — and friendships — that last a lifetime. The people who live in or near resort towns and cities are probably used to meeting travelers. They can help you get around, find the best restaurants and bars and teach you more about their culture.

6. Connect With Other Travelers

You can also have a richer travel experience by connecting with other people who are visiting Mexico. Whether you read online forums before your trip or meet up with fellow travelers for drinks or group tours, it can be fun to experience a new country together. Go on a hiking adventure or commiserate about having to live out of a suitcase for a while.

7. Dress for the Weather

Mexico is known for its tropical beaches and hot summers, but not every day is full of warm sunshine. In the winter and at high altitudes, temperatures can be cooler — or outright cold. One of the best travel tips for Mexico is to dress for the right weather.

Research where you’re staying ahead of time and regularly check the weather forecast to ensure you pack the proper clothes. Pack a jacket and some pants alongside your bathing suit so cooler weather doesn’t catch you off guard.

8. Be Aware of Your Safety

Many travelers are concerned about their safety and potential dangers when visiting Mexico. Like any country, Mexico has crime in some areas more than others. However, there’s a reason millions of people enjoy safe and fulfilling trips to Mexico each year. As long as you stay aware of your surroundings, you can be one of them. 

While exploring outside of your resort and visiting new places is fun and highly recommended, take common precautions. Tell people where you’re going and when you’ll be back, download a map to your phone so you can use it even without internet access or cell service and trust your gut.

9. Enjoy the Cuisine

If outdoor adventure isn’t for you, how about some adventurous eating? Mexican food is famous around the world for its spice and flavor. It’s more than just tacos — you can enjoy tamales, quesadillas, churros, sopes and regional dishes that vary from city to city.

To get the most out of your trip, immerse yourself in local cuisine. Follow the lines to the busiest vendors to be sure you’re getting delicious and local-approved food.

Take Advantage of Travel Tips for Mexico 

Mexico is a diverse country with adventures for every type of traveler. Follow these travel tips for Mexico to ensure you have the best experience possible, whether you’re relaxing on the beach or cage diving with sharks.