Mexico is a country filled with a plethora of places ideal for a relaxing getaway. The food, people and culture are all one-of-a-kind and so is its scenery. If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, especially if it’s one where you’d like to explore via your own vehicle, then advanced preparation is key to ensuring a smooth vacation.
The aspects of your vacation you’re probably most excited to plan are your accommodations, restaurant reservations and activities. Will you be choosing a beach oasis or metropolitan escape? Are you looking to unplug and relax or connect and learn? While all of these are important questions to ask yourself when beginning to plan a trip, there are some logistical questions you’ll need answers to as well.
As Mexico is an international destination, there is a lot to be prepared before you’re ready to jet set. First and foremost, you’ll need to know exactly what’s required to enter the country. If traveling as a U.S. citizen, a visa is not required for short-term travel. As long as you have a valid U.S. Passport, you can stay up to six months. Anything longer would require a visa approval.
You are required to drive with a license in Mexico
When traveling to Mexico and looking to rent a car, it is important to note a few key facts. Firstly, you will need not only your passport for traveling, but you should also have your U.S. Driver’s License with you. You are required to drive with a license in Mexico, and your one from the U.S. is accepted when traveling throughout Mexico.
Not every trip to Mexico needs to have so many moving pieces. If you’d like to make a quick trip even for just a day, you can cross into big cities like Tijuana from San Diego. If you happen to be driving to Mexico in your own car from the United States, then securing temporary Mexico car insurance is a requirement in addition to carrying your license. Though you may have coverage while in the U.S., your plan will not cover your car once you cross the border. Separate insurance from Mexican travel insurance companies should be purchased. This applies whether you’re driving in from San Diego, El Paso and more. Temporary Mexico auto insurance can be purchased from an insurance company in the U.S., online, or at the stands present at the border crossing.
If you’re wondering how much is Mexican car insurance?, you can expect to pay anywhere between $2 and $44 per day on the lower side and up to $192 per day on the higher side. It is also recommended you take out Mexico rental car insurance if you’re choosing to pick up a car once you get there. This is important to know so you can budget this into your trip accordingly.
If you never driven in Mexico before, you are probably looking to learn, is driving in Mexico safe? As with any foreign roadways, it is important to know where you’re going and how to get there. The U.S. government recommends for all car travel in Mexico that you stick to well-lit roads, drive during the day, and choose to take toll roads wherever possible.
Mexico boasts some of the most sought-after destinations in the world. It is filled with ancient historical sites, beautiful beaches and an array of world-famous culinary spectacles. While planning a trip to Mexico, it is important to learn all of the requirements such as the travel documents you will need, any insurance that needs to be purchased and the safest ways to travel there. Rest assured, by being prepared you will have the most incredible trip and one you’ll be talking about for years to come.