Top Tips for Mexico Trip
Is Mexico safe to visit? Do you really need pesos, or will U.S. dollars work just fine? Should you rent a car or stick with local transport? If you’re asking yourself these questions, you’re definitely not alone. After two trips across Mexico – each full of lessons, surprises, and unforgettable moments – I’ve gathered some essential tips to help you navigate your own adventure like a pro.
Money
Two of the biggest questions for me on my trips were “do I need cash” and “can I use USD or should I exchange to pesos”. To answer the first question, I suggest to have a combination of cash and currency on an international card. USD is widely accepted across Mexico, however Pesos is the preferred currency.
For smaller purchases like buses, gifts, or tips – cash in either currency is acceptable, however you will often lose some of your money with the exchange to USD, so I would recommend paying with pesos for convenience. Bring more cash than you think you’ll need. You’ll be surprised how many little purchases you’ll make that you need cash for!
For larger purchases, having an international card such as wise is ideal. You can have USD loaded onto the card and making purchases at the daily exchange rate, or exchange to pesos so it’s readily available to use.
Bonus tip: Your calculator has a currency conversion function! Use for instant conversions in real time.
Transport
Pre-book airport transfers: If arriving by air you’ll find the Mexicans are really keen to get you to your destination – but this isn’t always the cheapest option, or sometimes the safest. Booking your transfers ahead of time gives you the reassurance a reputable company will be there, and provides you with directions to exactly where you find them.
For your return to the airport, traffic can be unpredictable no matter where you are, and you need to be able to rely on your driver to pick you up on time so you make your flight. Having the transfer arranged ahead of time means you can organize your day and know that you’ll be at the airport in ample time.
Bonus tip: For safety make sure you can clearly identify the company, such as the logo on the van, uniform, or if necessary ask for an ID from the driver. On our return journey the van had no information, nothing inside, and the driver was in casual attire. This made us a little anxious, however they had confirmation of our name and thankfully did take us to the airport!
2) Buses: This tip is for the Cancun area specifically – they have orange and red buses (R1 & R2) that operate in both directions of the hotel zone and run about every 15 minutes throughout the day (less frequently at night). The orange buses are newer so are slightly more spacious and have air conditioning so are the better option for a more comfortable ride
Buses are either 12 pesos or you can pay with a US $1 bill. This is the most cost effective way to travel around the hotel zone.
Bonus tip: Well it’s not really a bonus, but for any buses – whether around town or tour – be prepared to have no leg room and spend the whole ride with you knees pushed against the seat!
Internet
Check your hotel has wifi (strangely some all-inclusive hotels do not include wifi!) – if this is not provided I highly recommend purchasing through Airalo. This is a great app for getting data, they provided multiple pricing options, all of which is extremely reasonable!
Bonus tip: Download the app and purchase the plan while connected to wifi/internet. Don’t leave it till you get to your hotel in case you’re not able to connect to wifi!
Bonus Tip!
Buy a portable fan. I cannot express this enough – especially in summer – you will be thanking me!!!
Mexico is a diverse and vibrant country, and with just a bit of preparation, you can travel it with confidence and ease. From knowing when to use pesos over dollars, to choosing the best way to get around, and staying connected while you’re on the move – these simple tips can make a big difference. Whether you’re heading to the beaches, the mountains, or the heart of a bustling city, being informed will help you focus on what really matters: enjoying everything Mexico has to offer. Safe travels, and don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure!