As freezing temperatures grip the U.S., millions of travelers are preparing for their annual migration south of the border.
But before you trade your winter coat for a margarita in a sun-soaked Mexican paradise, there is some required reading you need to do. The U.S. Embassy has just issued a crucial seasonal alert for Americans planning their winter getaway.
Whether you are jetting off to a luxury all-inclusive in Cancun, a surf town on the Pacific, or the cultural hubs of Mexico City, you need to see this. Don’t panic—there is no new “do not travel” order. Instead, the Embassy is issuing a transparent “heads-up,” urging travelers to memorize 8 vital safety and logistics tips so your trip remains a dream rather than a bureaucratic nightmare.
It doesn’t matter if you’re heading to a Cancun all-inclusive, a tranquil beach hideaway, or one of Mexico’s vibrant, bustling cities, where Old Town charm and modern marvels seamlessly intertwine.
Don’t worry — there’s no new travel alert to deter your trip. The Embassy is simply giving a seasonal heads-up, urging you to remember 8 important tips for your winter vacation in Mexico so you can come back home with nothing but rave reviews, as most of us do.
1) Crime Can Happen Anywhere
Mexico and crime go hand in hand if you listen to the talking heads of mainstream news.
Here at Travel Off Path, every single one of us has put boots on the ground, enjoying every facet of Mexico from the European vibes of Guanajuato to Puerto Vallarta’s finest resorts.
And guess what — I’m still here typing with all my limbs and nothing but glowing experiences to share, unlike how Mexico can be portrayed by those who think real Mexican food is a hard shell, ground beef, a sprinkle of processed cheese, and a ‘dollop of Daisy‘.
For those truly concerned with safety in Mexico, a great tool is the State Department’s color-coded map (found here).
Though the US Embassy specifically pointed out ‘San Carlos, Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point), Los Cabos, and Mazatlan, especially after dark’.
2) No Pew-Pews Allowed
Why you’d feel the need to pack heat across the border is one question, and quite frankly, none of our business.
However, we look forward to seeing you on Locked Up Abroad if that’s the life decisions you’re making…
The Embassy is encouraging travelers to remember we may share the same continent, but not the same laws.
Firearms, among other obvious weapons, including swords (okay, samurai…), and even fireworks, are illegal without proper permits.
Getting caught can come with hefty time in the clink.
3) Know Mexico’s Entry Requirements
According to the US Embassy, Mexico is doubling down on entry requirements for all travelers and even increasing prices in January 2026.
Every traveler must obtain a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), which can be done by visiting the online platform.
Costs are roughly $47 right now and are said to be going up to about $54 once officially required at the turn of the calendar.
It’s important to keep this document safe, as you may be asked to present it when leaving the country.
4) Double Check Your Passport
With new administrations come new rules, and Mexico is tightening up. Long gone are the days of a wink and a smile to promise you’re not a fugitive on the run.
Mexico requires every traveler to present a valid passport at immigration (including minors who must have a passport book when traveling domestically by plane).
Your expiration date must not exceed your last day in Mexico, or else you can expect expensive fines and/or detention.
I don’t know about you, but that sounds like the exact opposite of swim-up bar margs and pristine white sand — it’s best to double check!
5) To Declare Or Not To Declare
Does anyone get nervous in the declaration line, even if you have nothing to hide? Okay, maybe that’s just me…
Regardless, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Mexico’s customs and laws when it comes to imports.
For example, did you know Mexican regulations allow tax-free import of just one portable computer per person?
These are 4 common issues flagged by Mexican Immigration:
- Not declaring cash of $10,000 or more
- Not declaring goods worth over $300 when arriving by land
- Not declaring goods worth over $500 if arriving by air
- Not obtaining a temporary vehicle import when crossing the border
6) Prepare To Stop
Don’t be alarmed if you’re stopped by Mexican officials, whether it’s the National Guard or local police.
Many popular locales across the nation have checkpoints to ensure safety for tourists like you and locals alike.
The Embassy is urging travelers to be respectful and cooperate, while also using your ‘spidey sense’ to determine if it’s a legal government checkpoint or criminals extorting money, which does happen.
Either way, it’s best to mind your P’s and Q’s and not flee, which could make matters worse. Just know 911 is also the emergency line in Mexico.
7) Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Like crime, medical emergencies can come out of nowhere. You’ll need a plan, especially in more rural areas.
That’s why it’s always best to obtain a travel insurance policy before entering any country. In Mexico’s case, private hospitals can charge more than in the US — hard to believe, right?
Additionally, whether you choked on a taco or slipped in the shower, payment may be required upfront and that’s where insurance can help a ton.
8) Listen To D.A.R.E. This Trip
Remember those annoying activists in the 90’s that seemed to be outside every supermarket?
Well, it’s best to listen to them south of the border.
Let’s just there’s a reason Willie Nelson quit playing shows in Mexico…
His favorite green plant isn’t legal, even with a medical license that are so easy to obtain back home.
Possession can leave you in jail for years. As such, the Embassy also advises not to carry unknown packages across the border for any reason.
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