Posted : 24-Oct-2022 |: 24 Oct 2022
From Mayan ruins to dense jungle to pristine beaches, Mexico is a stunning but often overlooked travel destination.
Sure, plenty of people frequent the resort hotspots along the coast, but there's more to this country than all-inclusive resorts.
Actually I was late to explore Mexico. Only recently did I finally get past Cancun and Tulum's famous tourist mecca. But one day I fell in love. Mexico City is a premier arts and culture destination, and Oaxaca's mezcal industry (along with its best culinary scene) makes it one of my favorite places on earth.
Mexico is a great country for hiking, driving, or just relaxing. There is a multitude of things to see and do and the locals are some of the friendliest people in the world.
However, the country is repeatedly described by the media as unsafe. Drugs, corruption, cartels. The list goes on.
While Mexico has its own struggles (ranked in the top 20 for homicides per capita), most violent crimes are gang-related. This means that as a regular traveler you don't need to spend your days looking around.
However, there are a few things to consider when traveling to Mexico. Here's what you need to know to stay safe and have fun in Mexico.
Contents:
- Is Mexico Safe for Solo Travelers?
- Is Mexico Safe for Women to Travel Alone?
- Are Taxis Safe in Mexico?
- Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?
- Is tap water safe in Mexico?
- Can I drive at night in Mexico?
- Which areas in Mexico should you avoid?
- 9 safety tips in Mexico
- So you have to go to Mexico.
Is Mexico Safe for Solo Travelers?
Mexico is safe for solo travelers, although there's nothing wrong with traveling in a group if you're going out at night. Shared taxis are also a good option as safety is always in numbers. But overall, solo travelers don't need constant monitoring here. Take the usual precautions (guard your valuables, always be aware of your surroundings, etc.) and you will avoid many of the common hassles in Mexico.
Learning a little Spanish will also help you a lot to stay safe as you will be able to adapt and understand what is being said around you.
Is Mexico Safe for Women to Travel Alone?
Mexico is safe for women to travel alone as long as they take the same precautions as anywhere else. This includes things like watching your drink at the bar and avoiding going out alone at night (especially after drinking).
Also, consider booking a central location so you can be in a well-lit area. Try not to wear flashy jewelry or display your electronics as most offenses are crimes of convenience.
Finally, if this is a problem, ignore the dumb ones. They can be aggressive, so if you find one, it's best to just ignore it.
Are Taxis Safe in Mexico?
In general, taxis are safe and reliable in the main tourist areas from Mexico City to Oaxaca to Cancun. Make sure you take a legal and licensed taxi. If in doubt, contact your accommodation and book a taxi for you.
Please note that not all cities use metered taxis. So if you don't have one, inquire about the price in advance.
In general, avoid hailing random taxis as they are not always legal. When in doubt, choose Uber when it's available. Or Didi, the local version of Uber. Both are very safe to use.
Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?
In general, renting a car in Mexico is safe. Always obey speed limits and traffic laws, but it's not uncommon for cops to stop cars for misdemeanor in hopes of bribing them.
Also, it is best to avoid driving at night as this is the time when the car is most likely to be stolen.
Although every region is different, the best place to rent a car is in the Yucatan Peninsula. Roads are generally well maintained and the area is relatively safe to drive and explore off the beaten track.
Use Discover Cars for the best rental cars.
Is tap water safe in Mexico?
In many places in Mexico, tap water is undrinkable. Even though Mexico's sanitation and hygiene system has improved, it's still best to avoid tap water and iced drinks (except ice-filtered water). You can go out in Puerto Vallarta, but you should avoid it in most other areas.
While showering is fine, avoid brushing your teeth with tap water just to be safe.
Since single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.
Can I drive at night in Mexico?
Many popular destinations in Mexico have tourist areas where most attractions and restaurants are located. They are generally safe to explore at night, although you should ensure your valuables are safe and travel in groups if possible. Even in non-touristy areas you turn nine. Mexico has a nocturnal culture so many people go out at night meaning many eyes are on the streets. More people = less crime.
However, once you arrive, always check your accommodation to see if there are any areas you shouldn't enter at night (or during the day).
Are there areas in Mexico to avoid?
Unfortunately there is. Ciudad Juarez, Zacatecas, Sinaloa and Colima are generally considered the top places to avoid in Mexico. Does that mean they are an open war zone and you will be robbed or killed upon arrival? Of course not. But safety in this destination is definitely a concern, even for locals. You'll find a lot of cartel activity here and I wouldn't recommend visiting these places.
9 safety tips in Mexico
1. Get a Mexican SIM card – In case of an emergency, you need a working phone. Otherwise, consider buying a Mexican SIM card upon arrival for better coverage and access to maps if needed. The price is also cheap, around 10 USD
2. Drive only during the day : If you rent a car, drive during the day. Car theft is common, but it usually happens at night. Although there are many government checkpoints to maintain security, it's better to be safe than sorry
3. Learn Spanish . The more Spanish you know, the easier it will be to adapt. If something happens, you can also more easily ask for help. Before you travel, learn some useful words and phrases.
4. Don't dress flashy : Displaying expensive jewelry, cell phones, or laptops is a surefire way to become a target for criminals. Look your best without wearing jewelry and keep your phone out of reach unless you really need it.
5. Do not use drugs . Mexico has problems with cartels and favors recreational drug users. Buying drugs directly supports the cartel and harms Mexican citizens. Don't do drugs here.
6. Don't drink water - While most restaurants and cafes use filtered water for their drinks, ice is another matter. Always ask if you are unsure about drinking without ice. Avoid using tap water to brush your teeth, even if it's fine for showering.
7. Trust your instincts - If a food stall or restaurant looks unhealthy, it probably is. If you don't know where to eat, choose the taco stand with the longest line. If there is a big line, the food can be good. The locals know the best restaurants, so trust their choices
8. Watch your money . Don't carry weight in your purse or bag. Hand it out (some in your wallet, some in your hotel safe, some in your backpack) so if someone steals your wallet or robs you, you'll have money elsewhere.
9. Be careful when using ATMs. Only use ATMs inside banks. Robberies are more common at remote ATMs, and skimmers (to steal PINs) can be installed at remote ATMs. To be safe, just use a closed ATM.
So you have to go to Mexico.
Very! I go there several times a year and always enjoy my time there. It's affordable, the food is great, and there's plenty to see and do. Despite losing the game in Mexico I am now a die-hard convert and cannot recommend him highly enough. Whether you're a budget or luxury traveler, a newcomer or a travel veteran, you'll find plenty to enjoy here.
Get travel insurance before you leave. We never think that anything can go wrong when traveling. But sometimes it happens, as I've learned from experience. I ruptured my eardrum, damaged my gear and lost my belongings.
It's uncomfortable to think about, but bad things can happen when you travel. That's why I never leave the house without travel insurance. You don't have to, especially if you're going to Mexico. For a few dollars a day, you get a safety net that ensures you don't go broke if something bad and unexpected happens. Don't skimp on your health and safety. Not worth the risk.
Here's what you need to know about choosing comprehensive insurance.
Mexico is a vibrant, vibrant destination perfect for foodies, travelers, resort-goers, party animals and everyone in between. It's a great place for wild walks and sunbathing (after all, we travel there for a reason).
Be sure to follow the tips above so you can enjoy your trip safely and avoid the most common pitfalls. Although this country is not as dangerous as the media claims, it's always better to be safe. By following the tips above, you can make the most of your trip and stay safe.
Book your trip. Tips and tricks for logistics
Book your flight
Find cheap flights with Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the world, so you always know that nothing stays the same.
Book your accommodation
You can book your hostel at Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they always have the lowest prices for guesthouses and hotels.
Don't forget travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. This is full protection in case something goes wrong. I have never traveled without it as I have used it many times. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value for money are:
- Safewing (best for everyone)
- Secure my trip (70+)
- Midget (for additional evacuation coverage)
Are you ready to book your trip?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to take on the go. I've listed the ones I use when I travel. They are best in class and you can't go wrong using them on your travels.
Mail Is it safe to travel to Mexico? first appeared on Nomad Matt's travel page.