How to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget
Mexico gets a harsh and somewhat unjustifiable slant when it comes to safety.
Whilst things were worse over the decades, the situation has improved.
For tourists, backpackers, and travellers alike, you’ll likely have no problems.
Now this does depend on where you are (be more cautious in the Northern States, Guerrero and around Mexico City) however you’ll find that as long as you are not being stupid or being an arsehole, you’ll be fine.
How to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget
Before we cover budgeting when it comes to travel in Mexico, let’s look at other factors which will ultimately save you money if you get them right the first time.
Language and Currency
As with most of the countries in Latin America, Spanish is the primary language spoken here in Mexico.
Before backpacking Mexico we recommended learning some Spanish before you go. Not only does it make getting around and doing what you need to do easier, however, locals here are much warmer and really appreciate the effort!
Just think if you had a foreigner approach you in your country…
We are quite sure that you would be a lot more patient and helpful if they were making a brave effort to speak your native tongue!
Mexican Spanish
The Spanish spoken in Mexico is a lot more free in expression, and in our experience spoken slower than in Spain.
Our only caution is you avoid using the verb Coger, which means “To Take”.
Whilst fine in most other Spanish-speaking countries, here it has a slightly more grittier meaning. If you’re interested in learning more about this verb your old friend Google can help out 😉
You may also be surprised to learn that there are still many indigenous languages being used today throughout the country!
There as many as 68 native tongues still spoken today, such as Nahuatl, Mixtec and Zapotec.
Whilst you definitely don’t need to learn these, there are opportunities to hear the language and maybe pick up a few phrases from this book to use with the locals.
Mexican Pesos
The currency used here is Mexican Pesos. It’s quite a popular currency, so you should be able to pick this up at home before you go.
If not, its relatively easy to change up money in Mexico, of course depending on where you’re coming from (UK Pounds and US Dollars are the most common to change for).
At this time of writing: 🇺🇸 $1 = 20 Pesos, and 🇬🇧 £1 = 30 Pesos.
These are rough and always changing, so you can just Google for a more accurate rate for when you’re heading out.
Getting In and around the Country
Mexico is a big, BIG country. Many tend to actually be surprised of the distances once they arrive.
There are two main options for travel in Mexico which we will cover below.
Flights
On arrival, you will most likely be arriving at the Cancún or Mexico City international airports. These are the two biggest in the country and serve dozens of daily flights in from around the World.
In terms of getting around Mexico, buses will be your main friend, although you may find that domestic flights are extremely cheap and as cost-effective.
Viva Aerobus and AeroMexico are the two most popular and will make accessing smaller regions a lot easier and quicker (You can still always jump on a 20-hour bus if you want…).
Buses in Mexico
For most people who are backpacking Mexico getting around the country is conveniently simple.
The bus system being very well developed and you can find a wide a range of options to suit all budget and levels of comfort.
The main bus operators include:
- ADO (who serve the South)
- Primera Plus (for the central regions)
- Grupo Estrella Blanca (for the North and connections with the USA)
The buses tend to be very clean and have air-conditioning which can be a double-edged sword (perfect during sweltering days, but not so much during cooler nights. Make sure to bring a blanket if traveling overnight).
With many different providers to choose from, you can browse through a range of classes and price options to find the most suitable for you.
First class tends to be more expensive, with less stops and sometimes food/beverages provided. Second class has more stops and a little more cramped, but much better for the wallet.
Entry and Exit
As already mentioned, if flying in, then you’ll most likely arrive in Cancún or Mexico City. Whilst on the plane you’ll receive a Visa/Entry form.
Fill this out whilst on the plane, as the queues can take a while in immigration.
You can also enter Mexico via three different land borders: Guatemala, Belize and the USA. The USA is the most notorious and popular.
We haven’t personally crossed this border, but it does seem to be set up quite well. Just use caution, as many Northern Regions in Mexico are not the safest.
The Belize crossing is at the border with Chetumal, a port city in the south of Mexico.
It can get more interesting with the border crossings both here and in Guatemala, as there is more likelihood of corruption.
Be sure to get advice on how much it should cost before you head to the borders and also how many days of visit you should be getting stamped.
If you are running out of your time on a VISA, you can either fly out and back in, or just do a quick overland tour to one of the neighbouring countries.
You may need to spend a few days out of Mexico for it “to work”, however this is a more cost-effective option than flying out and back in.
COVID Note and Info (July 2021)
We don’t know about you lot, but we’re sick to death of this word, and can’t wait until it’s a thing of the past.
Until then, though, we have to acknowledge the impact it’s having, and also the local advice from government (key word here is acknowledge – you’re all adults and can decide for yourselves if you follow it).
COVID has made an unprecedented impact on travel and backpacking around the World.
Thankfully, we’ve passed the bulk of it and many countries are re-opening their borders for tourism. Mexico has always been open throughout, with most major sights already reopened.
Mexico is currently operating (July 2021 at time of writing) with a four-level traffic light system. Each state is placed within one of these categories and is subject to review every three or so weeks.
The most liberated level is Green, then Yellow, Orange, and finally Red, which is pretty much a full-scale lockdown (although still more free than most European countries).
Preparing for a Trip
You’ve seen the destinations, found a cheap flight and now you’re ready to go. The only thing that beats the excitement of heading off somewhere new?
Knowing you’ve planned properly so you don’t screw yourself on arrival.
Again, when backpacking Mexico you’ll never be perfect with planning and most likely will forget something here, lose something there etc.
However, some planning before you leave can go a long ways.
Such as knowing…
What to Pack for Mexico
Mexico is an extremely diverse country. As we mentioned before, it’s home to as many as 8 different biomes, which means lots of different climates and temperatures.
If you know you’re only heading to the beach for the week, then you’ll probably be alright with just some light clothes and a jumper.
However, if you are looking at backpacking the entire country, then it’s best you re-read the region guides and check out the weather and rain for when you head there. Or see this guide on the best time to visit Mexico first.
Yeah, you can always buy stuff when you get there, but why bother if you have it sitting in your wardrobe already?
Aside from clothes and toiletries some other considerations include:
- Hiking boots (these for men and also these for women)
- Towels
- Sleeping mattress
- Backup wallets and cards
- A long lasting Power Bank
- Laptop or electronics
- Hammock or tent
It’s impossible to list everything here, so once you have your itinerary you just need to start brainstorming what might come in handy.
Why not see our Mexico packing list for the full low down on what to carry with you here?
Injections
More important than ever, you’ll want to make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations.
Of course, at this time, everyone’s talking about the COVID vaccine. Aside from the health benefits, from a travel perspective it doesn’t really make a difference when heading to Mexico.
Depending on when you’re coming from, no proof of PCR/Antigen test is required.
Here’s some of the most frequent vaccinations that travelers get before visiting Mexico:
- Tetanus
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
In terms of all other injections you may need, consult your doctor. They know you best, so simply say where you’re going and listen to their advice.
When it comes to stomach bugs and food poisoning, you’ll want to read our guide on how to avoid getting sick in Mexico so you can concentrate on enjoying your trip.
Costs and Budgeting
Now onto the important bit. Unless you’ve got money growing on trees (inbox me and let me know how) then you’ll have a certain budget in mind.
Here we will look at the average budgets needed, depending on the lifestyle you’ll want and also how you may want to travel around. The costs we listed here as correct as of July 2021.
Costs
Here we’ll just outline some of the typical costs to help you plan your budget. Remember these can and will vary depending on where you are.
A popular city such as Guadalajara will most likely be more expensive than a lesser-known tourist spot, such as Ixmiquilpa.
- Average Dorm Bed = £5-10
- Private Single Room in a Hostel = £10-20
- A Street Food Dish = £1-2
- A Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant = £5-10
- Beer at a Local Bar or Dive = £0.50-£1.50
- Beer at a Touristy Bar = £2.50-3
- A typical 5-hour Bus Journey (such as Cancún-Chetumal) = £10
- One Way flight from Mexico City to Cancún = £30
Using Guided Tours
Whilst we swear by independent travel and freedom as much as possible, we do feel that guided tours around regions are also really useful.
Not only will you learn more about sites with a knowledgeable guide, they’re also handy for those who are short on time in Mexico.
One of our favourites is this tour from Mérida, which takes you all around the region of the Yucátan where you’ll visit many colonial cities and ancient ruins along the way
Crime in Mexico
Here’s a prime example of what happened to George, where he was arguably both (a massive stupid arsehole). He was robbed during the night while in Cabo San Lucas because he drank too much and passed out on a beach.
Whilst this is a great story to tell back home (we both try avoid it if we can)!
This was 100% down to him and his rash decisions.
Our go-to tips for safety in Mexico include dressing more low-key, avoid being out alone when its late, heed local recommendations depending on where you are, and most importantly – USE COMMON SENSE.
It’s also worth investing in quality security products before travelling to minimise your risk. A Safe Wallet like this one is a great option, as is this secure Money Belt which prevents you getting robbed whilst on the street.
Backpacking Mexico Travel Budget
Budgeting is pretty difficult to estimate. Everyone has their own wants, comforts and poisons so it’s bound to vary from person to person.
Note that the following only covers accommodation, food, and some extras (not flights, long buses, visas, impulsive spending etc).
The average backpacker will be spending around $40 a day. This would include sleeping in a dorm bed, sticking mostly to local food and cheap restaurants, maybe a taxi or two and also a few beers at night.
For a traveler who likes comfort, you’ll spend around $55-70, which’d include a budget private room, maybe a two-course meal and some beers at night.
We’ve both made a lot of mistakes when budgeting, so see our list of tips below to help you plan a bit better, and not have to cut short a trip:
Work out your daily budget (in terms of accommodation and food) staying in one of the many hostels in Mexico and then add on $20.
We can be pretty stingy, however when you’re traveling, you’ll want to let go and enjoy yourself.
So, by already factoring in that extra amount, you won’t be anxious every time you pull out your wallet.
Daily Budgeting for Mexico
Set aside a separate budget for extras, such as bucket list items or one in a lifetime experiences. You’ll already have a pretty good idea what these might be, such as skydiving or bungee jumping etc.
Relax! Remember that you’ll always have unforeseen costs, no matter how much you plan.
Visas, buses, renting lockers, paying for laundry etc are all annoying but an inevitable part of the backpacker lifestyle.
Hopefully the above will help you get started. If you want more info or help planning your ideal budget, then get in touch with us and we’ll give you our advice.
How to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget
Be sure to read our guide on backpacking Mexico for places to visit.
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