Are you planning a road trip across Mexico? Whether you’re relocating or exploring, here are essential tips to help make your journey safe, smooth, and stress-free.
1. Use Your Daylight Wisely
Start early—by 6:00 AM if possible—and plan to stop driving at least 2 hours before dark. This gives you time to deal with unexpected delays like:
- Traffic
- Flat tires
- Mechanical issues
Why it matters: If something goes wrong at 3:00 PM, you’ll still have enough daylight to find help and reach your next stop safely.
Pro tip: Always have your insurance company’s number handy. If you have a bilingual friend in Mexico, save their number, too. Also, make sure you know how to use WhatsApp’s Live Location feature.
2. Check Your Vehicle Before Every Drive
Before hitting the road each morning:
- Check tire pressure (usually 33–36 PSI, but check your car’s specs)
- Check oil and coolant levels
- Ensure your spare tire is ready to use
- Important:
- Tires expire after about 5 years—check the date stamped on the sidewall
- Carry an emergency tire inflator (available at AutoZone)
- Monitor your engine temperature gauge—anything above halfway is dangerous
If your engine starts to overheat:
- Turn off the A/C, turn on the heat, open your windows
- Pull over safely and let the engine cool
- Never push it—overheating can destroy your engine
Pro Tip: Get an oil change before the trip, and fix any check engine lights before you leave.
3. Keep Your Documents Organized
Bring a folder with:
- Driver’s license
- Car registration
- Insurance documents
- Immigration papers (if applicable)
Make digital copies on your phone and in cloud storage. Backing up your papers will save you major headaches if you lose them.
4. Bring Just Enough Cash
Keep about 1,000 pesos in cash for daily tolls and gas.
For convenience, get a PASE toll tag (available at OXXO) and preload it with ~3,000 pesos. This should cover most trips from the border to central Mexico.
Pro Tip: The most expensive toll is Arco Norte (~600 pesos), so budget accordingly.
5. Share Your Location
Stay connected by updating friends or family regularly. Learn to use WhatsApp’s Live Location feature so people know where you are—even if you lose cell service.
If something goes wrong, they’ll know your last known location.
6. Traveling with Pets? Be Prepared
Keep at least one cooler filled with ice in case your A/C fails. Pets can’t handle extreme heat—be ready to keep them cool if your car breaks down.
7. Make Sure You Have Mexican Phone Coverage
If your U.S. phone doesn’t work in Mexico:
- Buy a cheap local phone at OXXO
- Share the number with friends or family
- Use it as a backup or hotspot
Pro Tip: WhatsApp works on any Mexican SIM card and is essential for staying connected.
8. Know Your Route – And Plan for Delays
Don’t just plan from Point A to Point B. Identify key cities along your route as checkpoints and have a few backup overnight options.
Example: Eagle Pass to Puerto Vallarta
- Eagle Pass
- Allende
- Monclova
- Saltillo
- Matehuala
- San Luis Potosí
- Guadalajara
- Puerto Vallarta
Pro Tip: If you pass two of these cities before 2:00 PM, you likely have time to reach the next one. Build in flexibility!
9. Bring the Right Car
Avoid bringing uncommon or luxury vehicles. Many parts aren’t available in Mexico, and a breakdown could strand you for days.
Recommended brands:
- Toyota
- Honda
- Nissan
- Ford
- Chevy
- Kia
- Dodge
Avoid:
- Volvo
- Jaguar
- Range Rover
- Genesis
- Subaru
- Most luxury brands
Even a minor issue becomes a significant problem if parts aren’t available in Mexico.
10. Fuel Up Smart
Mexican gas comes in:
- Magna (Regular)
- Premium (Recommended for turbo and newer cars)
If unsure, always choose Premium. It won’t hurt your engine, but using low-grade fuel when you need high-grade definitely will.
Pro Tip: Never let your tank go below half. Some stations don’t take cards—or don’t have fuel—so keep your tank topped off when you can.
11. Avoid Gas Station Scams
Watch your vehicle during service. Never let attendants open the hood unsupervised.
They may:
- Claim you’re low on oil
- Add low-quality oil (which can cause leaks or damage)
Pro Tip: If you need oil, add it yourself.
Final Thoughts
Road-tripping through Mexico can be amazing, but preparation is key. A little planning can make your journey enjoyable and safe.
Drive smart. Stay safe. Enjoy the ride!
