Mexico Travel Tips: Travel Cheap on Flights, Buses & Colectivos

Updated – February 2024

Mexico is fast becoming a hub for digital nomads from the USA and Canada. And with the below Mexico travel tips for seeing the country, new digital nomads should be able to save a few bucks getting around.

Tired of the noise and traffic in CDMX? For less than $200 pesos ($10USD) you can hop a bus 3 hours away to the beautiful city of Puebla. Are you over the summertime heat in Playa del Carmen? For just $220 pesos ($11USD) you can fly to San Cristobal de las Casas, one of Mexico’s “pueblo magicos” (magic towns) where the temps are cool, even in the summertime.

Finding out the cheapest ways to travel the country can help you stretch your pesos and, hopefully, keep you in the country for a while longer. So, let’s go over the exact Mexico travel tips related to airlines, buses, colectivos, and taxis that Natasha and I use to get around.

Keep reading below for additional Mexico travel tips that will ensure your Mexican vacation goes smoothly, whether you’re visiting Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast, or the Mayan ruins on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Mexico Travel Tips – Inexpensive Domestic Airlines

This is just one of the many reasons we have decided to make Mexico our base when we travel. The small domestic airlines are inexpensive. Like, really, really inexpensive. As I mentioned above, a plane ticket is only $11USD to fly 2-3 hours from Playa del Carmen to San Cristobal de las Casa.

Granted, that’s pre-tax. But for less than $40USD, carry-on included, you can be in a whole other part of the country. How far is $40USD going to get you in the States or Canada? Maybe an Uber across town…maybe.

Whenever we get the urge to travel or get tired of the expats in a certain city, we just up and relocate. Sometimes with as little as a few days’ notice. With these Mexico travel tips for cheap travel, why not?

Sadly, not a lot of new travelers know about these Mexico travel tips. They get to one city or part of the country and just stay there. Even if it’s not exactly what they’re looking for. There’s no need to stay in one place. With flights this cheap you can see the whole country, from the Caribbean to the Pacific and anywhere in between.

Usually for less than $50USD.

Let’s take a look at a few super-inexpensive domestic airlines, and where you can travel on them.

Volaris (Our Favorite Low-Cost Mexican Airline)

We’ve taken nearly 20 domestic flights within Mexico over the past few years, and the vast majority of those flights have been on Volaris. It’s a no-frills airline, to be sure, but we don’t care. We can get anywhere we want within Mexico, including carry-on bags and taxes, for around $40USD. That’s less than the cost of an Uber across town in the US.

The no-frills part of Volaris includes things like:

• Having to pay to pick your seats (we’ve been separated once choosing the free seat option. Not a big deal).
• There is no first-class option.
• If you want legroom in an exit row, you’re gonna pay extra for it.
• Everything costs money on the flights, all the way down to a tiny bottle of water.
• Overhead compartment space is at a premium.
• No points program for discounted flights or services.

If you’re a luxury traveler, this might be an issue for you. For us, though, the no-frills option is a great way to explore the county, on the cheap.

Below is a list of all of the destinations you can fly to within Mexico.

Whether you want to surf in Puerto Escondido, snorkel in Playa del Carmen, or eat some of the best food in the country in Oaxaca, you can get there on Volaris, for cheap. 

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AeroMexico

While AeroMexico is considered a discount airline, it’s considerably more expensive than Volaris. And, it’s not a whole lot better, considering the extra cost. Like Volaris you have to pay to pick your seats, as well as for food and water once you’re onboard.

As far as I can tell, there are only a couple of reasons to choose AeroMexico over Volaris:

• Points Program – If you’re a frequent flyer on AeroMexico, signing up for their points program can get you upgraded seats, free meals onboard, and reduced luggage fees.

• More Destinations – Volaris will get you to most of the big cities and tourist destinations. AeroMexico, with 56 destinations in Mexico (more than twice the amount on Volaris), will get you pretty much anywhere in the country.

My first choice of cheap domestic airlines in Mexico is Volaris. If you need to get somewhere off of the beaten path, though, AeroMexico might be your best bet.

Viva Aerobus

Viva Aerobus is another option for seeing the lesser-known cities in Mexico. Viva Aerobus offers many more destinations than Volaris, although not as many as AeroMexico. The prices are right about the same price as AeroMexico, with one small exception; they charge for even the smallest carry-on bags (not including small purses).

While the cost for a carry-on bag paid online is pretty low, around $10USD, that number could triple if they decide your “personal item” is too big or heavy. We had an instance flying Viva Aerobus once where my unpaid “personal item” (a very small backpack) was determined at the airport to be a carry-on bag, which was now going to cost me as much as my plane ticket.

Viva Aerobus may get you there in a pinch, but it’s the last of the three low-cost Mexican airlines I would choose. Mostly because the cost of luggage could make your flights considerably more expensive.

Mexico Travel Tips – Executive, 1st, & 2nd Class Bus Companies in Mexico

While the above discount airlines will get you to some of the larger cities in Mexico, there’s still a lot of Mexico outside of those cities to see. If you’re an adventurer who wants to see as much of Mexico as you can, you’re eventually going to find yourself on one of the city-to-city buses.

For the uninitiated, this might sound a little concerning. You may have visions of old-school chicken buses, crowded with people, produce, and even livestock. That’s not what we’re talking about here (we will be in a little lower in the colectivo section of this blog, though). 

Bus companies in Mexico are safe, comfortable, and in some cases, even luxurious. There are three main types of bus service in Mexico:

• Executive Class (Ejecutivo Clase)
• 1st Class (Primera Clase)
• 2nd Class (Segunda Clase)

Let’s take a look at what each type offers, as well as some of the costs.

Executive Class Bus Companies in Mexico (Ejecutivo Clase)

This is, by far, the best way to travel within Mexico. Honestly, I would rather a 5-hour trip on an executive class bus than a 2-hour flight on a discount airline. It wouldn’t even be a decision I would have to ponder for too long.

Executive class buses are, unfortunately, not easy to come by. Especially if your travel plans are rigid. They are mostly used for long-distance travel, so for a trip of 2-3 hours, you may be stuck with a first-class bus (not the end of the world).

The benefits of taking an executive class bus company like Estrella de Oro are:

• Onboard Wifi
• Individual TVs
• Onboard bathrooms
• Large seats that fully recline
• Temperature control
• Unlimited baggage
• In-seat power adapters
• Complimentary drinks and snacks

Unlike some 1st class buses, and most 2nd class, executive class buses are always direct. They’re not cheap, though. A ticket for a 4-hour executive class bus ticket could cost you up to $100USD.

1st Class Bus Companies in Mexico (Primera Clase)

1st class buses in Mexico are much easier to find than executive class. You can find 1st class buses like ADO or ETN in nearly any medium-sized city. We’ve taken numerous 1st class buses in Mexico, and they’re a nice, inexpensive, way to travel the country.

The amenities on 1st class buses, though, are hit and miss. While some of the newer 1st class buses have Wifi, if you’re on an older 1st class bus, you might not. The same goes for TVs. 

Amenities you’ll find traveling on 1st class bus companies in Mexico, include:

• Large reclining seats
• Temperature control (AC or heat, depending where you are)
• Free baggage on and under the bus
• Onboard bathroom (notice that’s “bathroom”, not “bathrooms”)

1st class buses are considerably less expensive than executive class. They’re still not cheap, though. A two-hour trip from Mexico City to Puebla will cost you around $362 pesos ($18USD).

Unlike executive class buses, which are always direct, some 1st class buses may make stops in other cities. You won’t have to get off the bus, unless you want to, but it may add 30-45 minutes to your trip. Still, 1st class buses are a great way to get around the country.

2nd Class Bus Companies in Mexico (Segunda Clase)

There are 100s of 2nd class bus companies in Mexico. There might even be 3-4 different ones in each city. It really doesn’t matter which 2nd class bus line you take, as they’re all pretty much the same:

• Crowded
• Hot (or cold depending on where you are)
• Slow
• Bumpy

It sounds miserable, and sometimes it is. It’s also the best, least expensive way to get around Mexico. I can get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, on a 2nd class bus, for $57 pesos ($3USD). Totally worth the hour’s inconvenience, if you ask me.

Here are the amenities you’ll experience on a 2nd class bus in Mexico:

•  
•  
•  
•  

There are none. None. No wifi, no bathrooms, no charging station, and very little comfort. 

They’re still worth the price, though. They’ll get you safely to some of the smaller cities in Mexico, that you may not be able to get to any other way. We’ve taken 2nd class buses many times in the past, and we’ll most likely take them again in the future.

Mexico Travel Tips – Getting Around Cheap Using Colectivos

Colectivos aren’t for everyone. If you prefer traveling in luxury, colectivos are definitely not for you. We love them, though, and take them quite a bit.

Colectivos come in every size, shape, and color you can imagine. They can be a pick-up truck with seats in the back, a converted school bus, or any other large vehicle they can pack full of seats. No matter where you are in Mexico, no matter how small the town, chances are a colectivo will pass through it.

Even though there are 1000s of different colectivo routes in Mexico, they all basically work the same way:

1. Find out the beginning and end of the colectivo route to get on. This will be your best bet to get a seat as most colectivos aren’t on a schedule, but leave when they’re full.
2. If you’re not anywhere near the beginning or end of the route, stand anywhere on the route (like Natasha up there), and hope the colectivo isn’t full.
3. Look for a small bus. There should be the name of the route painted on the windshield (the one we relied on most recently was the Puerto Morelos\Leona Vicario colectivo, which was painted large on the windshield for everyone to see).
4. Once you spot your colectivo just hold your hand out to wave them down.
5. Ask the driver “cuanto es” (pronounced “kuan-toe ace”) and pay them.

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Colectivos are cheap AF.

The 40-minute trip between Puerto Morelos and Leona Vicario costs $8 pesos ($0.40USD). They’re slow, though, so don’t use one if you’re in a hurry. Normally the trip between those two cities is a 40-minute drive. In a colectivo, between the numerous pick-ups and drop-offs, it could take more than an hour.

If you’re a budget-minded traveler, colectivos are an awesome way to see the country.

Mexico Travel Tips – Know How the Taxis in Mexico Work

Fuck, I hate taxis. I absolutely despise them and if I never stepped foot in one again it’ll be too soon. It’s not just me, I’ve heard the same from numerous digital nomads and expats.

Now, to be fair, the above sentiment toward taxis is mostly just in tourist areas. Away from the tourists, taxis are fairly easy and scam free. Around tourists, though, forget about it. Just a couple of weeks ago I was stupid enough to get into a taxi in a tourist area after three different Ubers canceled.

Huge mistake as I fell for one of the very numerous taxi scams that are pulled on tourists. In this instance, it was the fast-spinning meter scam. There are other taxi scams, like the:

• “I don’t have change for that large of a bill” scam.
• “I’m going to take the long way” scam.
• “I’m quoting you gringo prices” scam, or the
• “My meter is broken, I’ll quote you a price” scam.

I’ve heard them all. Granted, the majority of taxi drivers are honest people. The few that aren’t, though, ruin it for everyone and puts me on edge every time I need a taxi.

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The best way not to fall for one of these scams is to research the hell out of how taxis work in the particular city you’re going to be in.

The best way to research the way taxis work in the particular city you are moving to is to join an expat Facebook group in that city, and post the question there. While you may not get an exact answer, you should be able to find out that a trip from the beach to your hotel should only cost $50 pesos, not the $500 pesos the driver is quoting.

Another Mexico travel tip with regards to taxis is that each city may have numerous types of taxis, with varying prices. The types of taxis in one city could include:

• Regular Taxis – These are the kind that you wave down anywhere in the city and they take you anywhere in the city. These may charge you by using a meter to calculate the distance, or there may be a flat rate depending on where you are and where you’re going. Find out beforehand so you know what the costs should be.

• Radio Taxis – These taxis are dispatched from a radio room. You call\text the radio room, tell them where you are and where you’re going. Then they take care of quoting you the price and routing a taxi to you. Radio taxis are a little more expensive than regular taxis but more convenient.

• Route Taxis – These taxis only go between certain routes. For instance, the beach route or the inland route. If you hop in a beach route taxi and ask to be taken somewhere inland, you may be paying a lot more money than just taking a regular or radio taxi.

• Sitio Taxis – These taxis pay an extra fee for the privilege of being able to park and wait in prime pick-up locations. This includes grocery stores, tourist attractions, shopping malls, bus stations, etc. Sitios will always cost a little more than a regular taxi, but not by a whole lot.

As digital nomads without a car, we rely quite a bit on taxis. Not knowing how taxis worked in the town I was moving to has definitely cost me more time and money than it should have.

Uber in Mexico

If there’s Uber in a Mexican town I’m living in, that’s my preferred method of transport. I don’t need to carry cash, I don’t need to haggle or negotiate the cost, and I don’t have to worry about waving down a taxi or colectivo on the street.

The problem is that Uber is in very few towns in Mexico. In the past few years, I’ve probably lived in ten different Mexican cities, and only two have had Uber; Mexico City and Progreso. If your plan is to rely on Uber during your stay in Mexico, chances are that may not be an option.

30 More of the Best Mexico Travel Tips to Help You Enjoy Your Vacation

Best Mexico Travel Tips #1 – Embrace Street Food

Sampling street food is a must for anyone visiting Mexico. It’s where you’ll find some of the best Mexican food the country offers, from tacos to tamales. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an affordable way to try a variety of Mexican cuisine. When you eat street food, you’re diving into a fundamental part of Mexican culture. However, always choose busy stands that cater to a steady flow of locals, as this is often a sign of good hygiene and quality.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #2 – Secure Travel Insurance

Purchase travel insurance before embarking on your Mexico travel adventure. Travel insurance protects against a range of unforeseen circumstances, including lost luggage, unexpected medical expenses, and cancellations due to natural disaster or illness. It offers peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about the financial impact of any unexpected events. For overseas health and travel insurance, Natasha and I always use SafetyWing Insurance.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #3 – Practice Safety Tips

While Mexico is a beautiful country to explore, it’s important to follow safety tips to ensure a pleasant experience. Stay informed about the areas you plan to visit, especially regarding any advisories about violent crime. Always travel in groups at night, keep valuables out of sight, and stay in well-lit, populated areas. Awareness and common sense go a long way in keeping you safe.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #4 – Smart Cash Withdrawals

When you need to withdraw money, choose ATMs in secure locations, such as banks or malls, and be aware of your surroundings. Decline the ATM’s automatic conversion to your home currency to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. It’s smarter to withdraw money in larger amounts less frequently to save money on fees, but don’t carry all your cash at once.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #5 – Learn Basic Spanish

While many people in tourist areas speak English, making an effort to speak Spanish can enhance your experience. Knowing basic Spanish phrases for greetings, directions, and transactions shows respect for the local culture and can help in areas less frequented by tourists. Plus, locals appreciate the effort, often leading to friendlier interactions and insider Mexico tips.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #6 – Use Mexican Pesos Over Cards

It’s advisable to use Mexican pesos for transactions instead of credit and debit cards to avoid high fees and fraud. Exchange money at official currency exchange offices for the best rates. Having cash on hand is especially important in smaller towns or for smaller purchases, where cards may not be accepted. Keep your cards locked in the hotel safe when not needed.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #7 – Avoid a Car Rentals

Navigating Mexico road trip by car can be challenging due to different driving standards and the potential for unexpected expenses. Instead, take advantage of Mexico’s extensive bus network, which offers a comfortable and affordable way to travel. For exploring local attractions while visiting Mexico, consider using reputable tour guides or public transportation, which can provide a more relaxed and insightful experience without the stress of a rental car.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #8 – Don’t Drink the Tap Water

It’s a well-known rule for travelers in Mexico: don’t drink tap water. In most of Mexico’s cities, tap water may contain bacteria and parasites that can lead to stomach problems. Always opt for bottled water, and use it for brushing your teeth as well. Many hotels and accommodations provide guests with bottled water, so make use of this amenity to stay hydrated and healthy.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #9 – Prepare for Medical Expenses

While no one anticipates getting sick on their Mexico vacation, unexpected medical expenses can arise. Fortunately, medical care in Mexico is both high quality and affordable. Most pharmacies have an in-house doctor (medico) who can provide consultations for minor ailments at little to no cost. For more serious issues, hospitals and clinics are available, often at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #10 – Solo Female Traveler Caution

Mexico is a welcoming destination for solo female travelers, but it’s essential to use the same caution you would anywhere else. Research your destinations, stay in reputable accommodations, and trust your instincts. Engaging with other travelers and locals can enrich your experience, but always prioritize your safety, especially at night and in less familiar areas.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #11 – Avoid Street Level Drug Dealers

Engaging with street level drug dealers is a risk not worth taking. Beyond the obvious legal implications, it can expose you to drug related violence, police shakedowns, and compromise your safety. Mexico is renowned for its rich culture, delicious street food, and stunning landscapes—focus on these positive aspects instead. Exploring the country’s legal and cultural offerings provides a far richer and safer experience.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #12 – Proper Toilet Paper Disposal

In Mexico, the plumbing system isn’t designed to handle toilet paper in the same way as some other countries. You’ll often find a bin next to the toilet where you should dispose of your used toilet paper. This practice helps prevent plumbing issues and is a simple adjustment to make in respecting local infrastructure.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #13 – Use Local Currency Only

While some places might accept foreign currency, it’s best to use the official currency, the Mexican peso, for all transactions when visiting Mexico. Not only does this help you get a better exchange rate, but it also simplifies purchases and is more respectful to vendors. Exchange your money at reputable locations and familiarize yourself with the exchange rate to ensure you’re getting fair prices.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #14 – Wash Street-Bought Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruits are a delicious and healthy treat in Mexico, but it’s important to ensure they are washed properly before eating. This helps to remove any bacteria or pesticides, making them safe to consume. If buying fruits from a street vendor, look for ones that can be peeled, or make sure they have been cleaned with purified water.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #15 – Know the Exchange Rate

Being familiar with the current exchange rate between your home currency and the Mexican peso can help you manage your finances better while traveling. It allows you to quickly assess whether you’re getting a fair deal when making purchases or exchanging money. A basic understanding of the rate can also help you avoid being overcharged in tourist areas.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #16 – Pack Sunscreen and Bug Spray

Mexico’s climate means strong sun and, in some areas, plenty of insects, especially during the rainy season. Protecting your skin with a high-SPF sunscreen and using bug spray can prevent discomfort and health issues. It’s particularly important to reapply regularly if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors or visiting archaeological sites.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #17 – Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Mexico’s rich cultural heritage is one of its greatest treasures. Show respect for local customs, traditions, and etiquette when you visit Mexico. This might mean dressing modestly in certain areas, being quiet in sacred sites, or learning a few phrases in Spanish as a sign of respect. Engaging with the culture respectfully can greatly enrich your traveling experience.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #18 – Stay Hydrated with Bottled Water

Always opt for bottled water to stay hydrated, as tap water is not safe to drink. This is crucial in Mexico’s warm climate, especially if you’re active or spending a lot of time outdoors. Staying hydrated helps keep your energy up and ensures you can fully enjoy your adventures across the country.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #19 – Use Public Transportation

Mexico’s public transportation system, especially in major cities, is efficient and affordable. From metro systems to buses, it’s an excellent way to navigate and get a feel for local life. For longer distances, consider first-class buses, which offer comfort and convenience, often with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #20 – Explore Beyond Tourist Areas

While Mexico’s tourist spots are famous for a reason, there’s much to be gained from exploring off the beaten path. Smaller towns and rural areas offer a glimpse into Mexico’s soul, with authentic experiences, untouched landscapes, and warm hospitality. Use reputable tour guides when venturing into less known areas to ensure a safe and enlightening experience.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #21 – Protect Personal Belongings

When traveling in Mexico, safeguarding your personal belongings is crucial, especially in crowded places such as markets, public transportation, and tourist sites. Utilize anti-theft bags or keep valuables close to your body. Additionally, it’s wise to make copies of important documents and store them separately from the originals. Being vigilant helps prevent theft and ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable trip.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #22 – Check for Travel Advisories

Before and during your journey, stay updated on travel advisories for Mexico. These advisories provide essential information on safety, health, and regional concerns that might affect your travel plans. Government websites and news outlets are reliable sources for such updates, helping you make informed decisions and prepare adequately for your trip.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #23 – Use Reputable Tour Companies

For excursions and tours, especially when exploring remote areas or engaging in adventure activities, opt for services from reputable tour companies. They ensure not only the quality and safety of your experience but also adherence to local laws and environmental practices. Recommendations from other travelers or trusted travel guides can help you choose the right company.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #24 – Enjoy Mexico’s Beaches Safely

Mexico’s beaches are renowned for their beauty, but it’s important to respect ocean safety. Pay attention to flags and signs indicating swimming conditions, especially during hurricane season, and heed local advice about currents and tides. Protect yourself from the sun with high-SPF sunscreen and stay hydrated. Respecting these guidelines ensures a pleasant and safe beach experience.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #25 – Try Local Markets for Souvenirs

Local markets in Mexico are treasure troves for unique souvenirs, offering everything from handmade crafts to local street food. These markets not only provide a glimpse into the local culture but also allow you to support the local economy. Practice your bargaining skills respectfully, as it’s part of the shopping experience in many markets.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #26 – Be Mindful of Altitude in Certain Areas

Some of Mexico’s destinations, like Mexico City, are at high altitudes, which can affect individuals not accustomed to it. Symptoms of altitude sickness include fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath. Acclimatize by staying hydrated, resting upon arrival, and consuming light meals. Awareness and preparation can help mitigate altitude effects, enhancing your overall experience.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #27 – Participate in Cultural Festivals

Mexico’s cultural festivals are vibrant and deeply rooted in the country’s traditions. Participating in these festivals offers an immersive experience into Mexico’s rich heritage. From the Day of the Dead to traditional fiestas, these celebrations are filled with music, dance, and local cuisine, providing an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the local community.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #28 – Understand Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary in Mexico for various services, including when dining out on delicious food, and for taxi drivers and hotel staff. While the amount can vary, a general guideline is 10-15% of your bill for restaurants and a few pesos for bag handlers or housekeeping. Recognizing and respecting local tipping practices is a way to show appreciation for the service provided.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #29 – Stay Connected with a Local SIM Card

Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival can be a cost-effective way to stay connected during your travels. It offers the convenience of local calls, texts, and data without the high costs associated with international roaming. Ensure your phone is unlocked before your trip and choose a plan that fits your communication needs to share your experiences and stay in touch with ease.

Best Mexico Travel Tips #30 – Download and Install WhatsApp Before your Trip

Almost nothing gets done in Mexico without the WhatsApp app. From taxi services to ordering to-go street food to coordinating with the locals. All of this is done with WhatsApp. In addition, if you’re traveling with a group, WhatsApp has useful features such as “track my location” and “live location” that will help you keep track of your family and travel companions.

Use These Mexico Travel Tips to Save Money and Extend your Trip

We love Mexico, and we come back here every year for at least 6 months. In my opinion, this is the place to test out the digital nomad lifestyle, especially if you’re from North America. It’s close, it’s cheap, and the people are amazing. 

Using the above-mentioned Mexico travel tips for getting around the country, I’m confident you’ll have a safe, inexpensive, and fun-filled trip while you’re here. If you have any specific questions about traveling within Mexico, feel free to reach out in the comments, and I’ll do my best to get you an answer.