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Home > News & Advice > Tip of the Day > Traveling Safely in Mexico

Traveling Safely in Mexico

by Michelle Addo, SmarterTravel.com Staff - January 21, 2009
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Cathedral in Zocalo Square, Mexico City (Photo: Adalberto Rios Szalay/Sexto Sol)

From its large-scale beach resorts and bustling cities to its beautiful forests and tiny villages, Mexico is one of the most popular travel destinations around. However, this vast country is not known for being one of the safest options for vacationers. Despite this reputation, travelers can still have a fun-filled holiday! Sticking with these simple tips will help you have an enjoyable and safe vacation.

Do Your Research
Researching your destination prior to departure is a good way to learn about the history of Mexico and which places to visit. It can also warn you of any current travel precautions or health warnings. Websites such as the U.S. Department of State, WorldTravelWatch, and Visit Mexico have information about the country and provide a plethora of emergency numbers and addresses. Travelers can also check international news sites to learn about any relevant happenings such as riots or protests.

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Do Not Travel Alone
While many people love to go on solo vacations, in Mexico, it is best to stick to the buddy system. Travel with a friend, partner, or group. One should also be accompanied when walking late at night or early in the morning.

Try to Blend In
When visiting any country, it is best not to call attention to yourself. This is especially true in Mexico, where pickpockets are commonly found in tourist areas. Keep extra cash, credit/debit cards, and identification in either a money belt hidden under your clothes or locked in your hotel's safe. Also, try to be discreet when using maps or taking pictures.

Be Careful of Taxis
It is best to call taxis instead of hailing them in the street. Authorized taxis (called Taxis Autorizados) are the best option besides airport or hotel taxis. These cabs are found at authorized stands throughout the country's cities. Additionally, agree on the taxi fee with the driver up-front.

Ask the Locals
Locals know best. If you have concerns about a neighborhood, or are generally unsure about an area, ask your hotel manager, desk clerk, or another person familiar with the location if there are particular areas you should avoid.

Do you have any safe travel tips for Mexico? Share them by submitting a comment below!

 
 
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Archived Comments:

  • Bill - January 29, 2009

    Safe Travel Tip: Don't go to Tijuana.

  • Julie - February 10, 2009

    Don't go to Juarez!

  • GlobalVillager - February 10, 2009

    For women travelers--Do not wear jewlery which can attract attention of thieves or other undesireabele elemtns.

  • Jeanne - February 10, 2009

    In most urbanized areas you can eat the street food..just look for the more popular places and places that look clean and cook the food in front of you. Don't walk around with your map hanging out, unless you would like to become a target. Go into a store, bathroom, museum, whatever and take a look at where you're going.

  • Ruth - February 17, 2009

    Common Sense! Don't wander back streets or unfamiliar areas in the dark. Most people wouldn't do this in their home towns, so don't do it on vacation in Mexico or anywhere.

  • qqqqqjim - February 17, 2009

    I travel to Mexico City frequently and would suggest any American traveling there to do exactly as you would in NYC, Chicago, LA or any large city for that matter. I always carry pepper spray and while I'm sure many people (certainly the authorites) would discourage, it probably saved my life once in Mexico City and certainly saved me from getting mugged and robbed in Madrid. And it is legal to transport and carry in most countries, but check local laws first.

  • Observer - February 17, 2009

    Advice from a seasoned observer, not all based on personal experience: Don't get involved with drugs in Mexico; decapitations are often reported. The police are not your friends. Do not break any traffic laws. Be sure to have Mexican auto insurance. Prepare for long (up to 3 or more hour) waits at the border if returning from Mexico by car. Do not bring firearms into Mexico without first consulting a Mexican Consulate about laws. The food is mostly reliable; the only time I had a bowel problem with Mexican food was in a Mexican restaurant in San Diego's Old Town tourist area. Do not bring back illegal substances; the dogs are very well trained. Watch "Homeland Security" on Cable if you are thinking about anything you shouldn't. They are both polite and extremely thorough. They have caught thousands of "smart" malfeasers. If you like Cuban cigars, pack them in plain view. Perhaps the friendly customs inspector will be struck blind at small quantities intended for personal use. But there are no guarantees.

  • jim - February 17, 2009

    We have traveled to Ixtapa& Mazatlan& Manazanillo. spent a week at each location.And had a great time with no problem.no where to go and not where to go, Safety is always on my mine at all times.

  • Sandy - April 1, 2009

    Has anyone been to Zihuatanejo lately? If so, do you have any specific safety advice for that area?

  • cperry17 - June 29, 2009

    is it true, that you should bring small trinkets, pencils and crayons,etc.... to leave for the cleaning staff to bring home to their children? as well as leaving them a tip??someone told me this, and i was wondering if this is true

  • mark - August 19, 2009

    Mexico in most tourist areas is fairly safe. However, ask your hotel staff about areas to avoid, and dont walk around alone or in empty blocks.

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