Driving in Mexico - Things to know
When my friends and family found out I was driving to Mexico, by myself, in an Audi, they were terrified.
Fear mongering is a real thing, and something I do not tolerate well. That said, there are smart precautions to take when entering and driving in Mexico, especially through Sinaloa, which has a higher level of crime.
Here’s exactly what I did.
Before you leave
Install a dash cam that backs up to a drive others can view if needed. Thank you, Dan, for spending hours installing mine to keep me safe.
Buy Mexican auto insurance before you cross. I purchased mine before leaving the US. It cost about $600 CAD.
Traveling with a dog Bring an updated list of vaccinations and a record of recent exam.
Pack a portable battery booster and a portable tire inflator. You’ll be glad they’re there.
Crossing at Nogales, and the stop you can’t miss at KM 21
Entering at Nogales was ridiculously easy. No one stopped to check my documents at the border at all.
The stop that matters is KM 21, where you get your TIP (Temporary Import Permit) and your visa. It’s not well marked. It looks like a random old building on your right hand side, so keep your eyes open.
A TIP is basically a deposit on your vehicle, so Mexico can be sure you leave the country with it. To get one you’ll need:
Your VIN
Copies of your driver’s licence
Copies of your registration
Copies of your Mexican insurance
On the road
Do not drive at night. We stopped in Hermosillo and Mazatlán and made it to PV by sundown.
Expect checkpoints. The first one I went through was intimidating. The officers had their faces covered (I later learned it’s for their own protection from the cartels) and carried guns. They checked almost everything in my car, popped the hood, patted down the seats, and physically searched me. Trust that they’re simply doing their job. As long as you cooperate, everything goes smoothly.
Carry some cash for tolls, but not a lot. My toll road expenses were about $275 CAD.
Never hand over your physical cards or documents. Show them, but hold onto them.
Never let your tank drop below a quarter - gas stations can be few and far between,
Above all, be careful how much you buy into the media hype and the terror stories on the internet. Prepare well, stay smart, and the road is just a road. A very beautiful one.
