1. Check Your Visa Eligibility: Holders of a valid U.S. multiple-entry visa or green card can enter Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days. Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for a Mexican visa in advance. This also applies to transit.
2. Carry Small Denomination Cash: Street food, shared taxis (collectivos), and small markets typically only accept cash. Bring plenty of 50–200 peso bills.
3. Drink Only Bottled Water: Tap water is not safe to drink, though ice in reputable restaurants is usually fine.
4. Mind the Altitude Difference: Mexico City sits at 2,240 meters above sea level, creating a noticeable temperature difference compared to sea-level destinations like Cancún. Pack a light jacket.
5. Protect Against Sun and Mosquitoes: The high-altitude sun is extremely strong, and mosquitoes are common in the Yucatán. Bring both insect repellent and sunscreen.
6. Book Early for Día de los Muertos: Hotels in Mexico City and Oaxaca fill up months in advance during early November, and airfares also spike.
7. Visit Ruins Early: Arriving at Teotihuacán or Chichén Itzá before 9 a.m. helps you avoid tour groups and the midday heat.
8. Use Ride-Hailing Apps for Taxis: Uber and DiDi offer a safer option with trip tracking. At the airport, walk to the designated pickup area.
9. Learn a Few Spanish Phrases: Simple phrases like buenas (hello) and la cuenta (the bill) can greatly improve your experience.
10. Stay Safe: Main tourist areas are generally safe, but avoid deserted streets at night, distribute valuables, and stay updated on consular advisories.

Additional Checklist

• Plugs are U.S.-style two-pin or three-pin, 120V. Most phone chargers from abroad can be used directly.
• Tipping is customary across many services. Even gas station attendants and supermarket baggers may expect 5–10 pesos.
• The actual Mexican Independence Day is September 16th—May 5th is just the Battle of Puebla, so don’t confuse the celebration dates.
• For silverware, look for Taxco origin and the .925 mark. Bargaining is common in markets, with about 30% room for negotiation.
• Beach warning flags: Green means safe, yellow means caution, red means no swimming. Always follow lifeguard instructions.
• During major holidays (Día de los Muertos, Holy Week), expect higher transport and accommodation prices. Plan your budget and itinerary with flexibility.
• Official bus websites often offer discounts. Book well in advance for Holy Week and other peak travel periods.
• Keep your boarding pass and a copy of your passport for immigration checks or insurance claims.
• Mexico’s overall security is manageable, but avoid displaying or using your phone openly during rush hour on the metro. Carry your backpack in front.
• Temperatures vary greatly in the highlands. Nights in Mexico City in winter can approach 0°C, so a light down jacket is not excessive.