By Rodrigo Manterola
COVID 19 UPDATE HERE
Is Mexico safe?
While things do happen in Mexico just as everywhere else, it’s important to follow a few guidelines to travel safely through Mexico and Latin America.
Many people ask this and I think the answer is yes, Mexico is safe; using your god-given common sense.
There are 4 levels on the travel advisory rating system:
Level 1 Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2 Exercise Increase Cautions
Level 3 Reconsider Travel
Level 4 Do Not Travel
Check the Department of State Website before you travel
As a good start check the travel advisory on the Department of State website before you plan any further
At this point the travel advisory for Mexico is on level 2; this means you need to increase cautions. Countries like Italy and France are on that same advisory level.
Would you be afraid of traveling to Paris or Rome? probably not, but you wouldn’t walk down the streets of Paris at midnight flashing your wallet to strangers, nor buy drugs from a shady character in a dark alley, right?
The same thing is true in Mexico, common sense and prudence are advised.
There are areas with a higher level of alert in the country like some parts of Tamaulipas, Michoacán, and Guerrero, but these are mainly remote areas within these States and not the whole State.
This means that while there are reports of criminal activity this is gang-related and not aimed at tourists.
Yet as any experienced traveler will tell you; petty crime is everywhere from Rome to Rio, so always keep in mind these rules
Some rules are not to be broken
- Be aware of your surroundings while traveling and in crowded areas
- Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
- Trust your gut; if you don’t like it, don’t do it.
- Only drive during the day
- Keep your phone charged and make sure it works in Mexico; if necessary get a local sim card
- Don’t flash your expensive gear, keep a low key as much as possible
- Don’t wave down a taxi, have your hotel or restaurant arrange one for you
You are going to hear all kinds of things, good and bad, so the best you can do is stay on top of your game by following these guidelines, despite what you hear the vast majority of US travelers say they feel safe in Mexico
Read our article Road trip to Baja here
Some travel gear with safety in mind
In addition to these tips, you can also get some traveling gear with extra safety features like;
Travel pouches
Safe travel backpacks
Travel locks
Battery pack
Money belt
Is Mexico safe? Yes, but no matter where you go, your safety is up to you, this applies to Mexico just as the U.S.A. or any other country in the world. Exercise common sense, enjoy your trip and stay safe
Important links
United States Embassy in Mexico and the U.S. Department of State links
Department of State travel advisory level
Department of State Checklist before you travel
Department of State travel insurance advise
Department of State your health abroad
Department of State Customs and import restrictions
