best travel insurance for cancun mexico

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The Best Travel Insurance for Mexico in 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Seven Corners »

Generali Global Assistance »

Trawick International »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Travel Insurance for Mexico.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners

While Mexico is a lot closer to the United States than most other international destinations, that doesn't mean you don't need travel insurance. Travel to Mexico puts you at risk of many of the same perils you'll face in other parts of the world, including the prospect of becoming injured or ill during your trip, facing travel delays or flight cancellations , or dealing with baggage delays once you arrive.

Before you plan a relaxing getaway or adventure trip in a destination like Mexico City , Puerto Vallarta or Cancún , you'll want to have a travel insurance plan lined up and ready to go. Our advice? Start your search by comparing the following Mexico travel insurance plans and all they have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Just like with other international trips, you should know that your own personal health insurance coverage will not apply in Mexico. The same is true if you have a government health plan like Medicare. (See our article on this topic for more information.)

At the bare minimum, you'll want to have travel health insurance that applies if you become sick or injured during your vacation. Other types of insurance coverage can also make sense for travel to Mexico, including coverage for trip cancellations, delays, lost baggage, missed connections and more.

Mexico travel insurance policies vary widely in terms of what they offer and how much coverage you get. Ultimately, you should compare plans side by side and make sure you're getting enough coverage for the type of trip you're taking and the specific risks you're taking on.

That said, common protections found in Mexico travel insurance plans cover:

• Baggage delays
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Travel delays
• Lost luggage reimbursement
• Medical expenses
• Rental car damage

Some plans available for Mexico trips also include optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage that reimburses you for part of your prepaid trip cost when you cancel your trip for any reason at all. Certain coverage options also provide protection for preexisting medical conditions if certain conditions are met, which is a factor you'll want to take note of if you or someone in your traveling party has a medical condition that could pose a problem on your trip.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Seven Corners: Best for Families
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Trawick International: Best for Adventure Travel
• WorldTrips: Best for Nomads and Remote Workers

Option to purchase CFAR and preexisting medical conditions coverage

Kids age 17 and younger covered for free

Lower coverage limits for medical expenses than some providers

• $100,000 in coverage for trip cancellation (per traveler)
• $150,000 in coverage for trip interruption (per traveler)
• $500 in Trip Change Protector coverage
• $50,000 in emergency medical coverage (per traveler)
• $500,000 for emergency medical transportation (per traveler)
• $1,000 toward baggage loss or damage (per traveler)
• $300 in coverage for baggage delays of 12 hours or more (per traveler)
• $800 in protection for travel delays per traveler (daily limit of $200 applies)
• $100 per insured person, per day in SmartBenefits coverage for eligible delays
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

Optional CFAR and preexisting conditions waiver available

Coverage for up to 10 travelers in a single plan

Low coverage limits on Trip Protection Basic plan

• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses ($750 emergency dental limit)
• $1 million in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost (maximum $100,000 per person)
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cost
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $2,000 ($250 per person, per day)
• $1,500 in coverage for missed cruise connections or tours (up to $250 per day)
• $2,500 in coverage for baggage and personal effects (limit per item of $250)
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $500 (maximum $100 per day) after delays of six hours

CFAR and preexisting medical conditions coverages available

High coverage limits for medical expenses and evacuation

CFAR coverage only reimburses at 60%

Low emergency dental limit

• Up to $1 million in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and transportation
• $250,000 coverage limit for medical expenses ($500 limit for dental emergencies)
• 100% of trip cost for trip cancellation
• 175% of trip cost for trip interruption
• $1,000 per person for travel delays ($300 per person daily limit)
• $2,000 per person in coverage for baggage
• $2,000 per person in coverage for sporting equipment
• $500 per person for baggage delays
• $500 per person for sporting equipment delays
• $1,000 per person in coverage for missed connections
• Air flight accident accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage worth $100,000 per person (maximum $200,000 per plan)
• Travel accident AD&D coverage worth $50,000 per person (maximum $100,000 per plan)
• $25,000 per person for rental car damage
• 24-hour travel support
• Identity theft resolution services

Coverage for 450-plus sports and activities

Generous benefits for emergency evacuation

No CFAR option available with this plan

No preexisting conditions waiver

• Trip cancellation coverage for 100% of prepaid trip cost (up to $50,000)
• Trip interruption coverage for 125% of prepaid trip cost (up to $62,500)
• Trip delay coverage up to $1,000 for delays of 12 hours or more ($200 per day)
• Inconvenience benefits worth up to $500 per trip
• Medical coverage up to $100,000
• $10,000 in coverage for search and rescue (not available in New York)
• Up to $1 million in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $3,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $750 after a delay of 12 hours or more
• Sports equipment rental coverage worth up to $5,000 (not available in New York or Washington)

Useful medical coverage for frequent travelers to Mexico

Potential for high coverage limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellation

Available coverage limits vary by age

• Up to $250,000 in maximum coverage for illnesses and injuries
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• $10,000 in coverage for political evacuation
• $1,000 in coverage for emergency dental expenses
• Up to a $20,000 lifetime maximum for repatriation of remains
• $5,000 in trip interruption insurance
• Up to $3,000 for lost checked luggage ($6,000 lifetime maximum)
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $100 per day after delays of 12 hours (two-day maximum)
• Personal liability coverage worth up to $25,000

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel expert who has been creating content about travel insurance, cruises, all-inclusive resorts and more for more than a decade. She has visited more than 50 countries around the world and has an annual travel insurance plan of her own. Johnson also has experience navigating the claims process for travel insurance plans and has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations more than once. Johnson works with her husband, Greg, who is licensed to sell travel insurance, and owns the travel agency Travel Blue Book .

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Best Travel Insurance for Cancun Mexico in 2024

WHAT IS THE BEST CANCUN TRAVEL INSURANCE?

You’re in the right place for information because I live in Mexico . That’s right, I’m a Mexico blogger who’s been living as an expat in Mexico since 2018 — and I’m here to offer you help understanding travel insurance for Cancun.

When it comes to your best options, I personally only ever recommend these three companies for Mexican travel insurance:

• Travel Insurance Master — Best Mexico travel insurance comparrison tool.
• SafetyWing — Best Cancun insurance for digital nomads and long-term travelers.
• World Nomads — Best insurance for general travelers. ( Note: FREE quotes available via Travel Insurance Master .)

Besides showcasing the best companies, I’ll also answer common FAQs in this article, like Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? , Is Cancun safe for travelers? and What is the best travel insurance for Mexico?

After you figure out which plan is right for you , check out the Cancun travel insurance FAQ and general Cancun travel FAQ at the end of the article.

Disclaimer: I am not an insurance expert, insurance broker or insurance salesperson. For specific questions about Mexico travel insurance policies, please speak to someone at the company you’re buying the plan from.

best Travel Insurance for cancun Mexico

What are the best mexico travel insurance companies.

Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer for what’s the absolute best insurance for Cancun Mexico best — because the best travel insurance for Mexico trips depends on you and your needs.

To determine the best insurance is best for you, consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc. I recommend these three companies, all for different reasons:

• Travel Insurance Master — Best site to compare Mexico travel insurance plans so you get the best deal.
• SafetyWing — Best insurance for digital nomads in Mexico and long-term travelers.
• World Nomads — Best insurance for general travelers. ( Note: Head to Travel Insurance Master to get a quote from World Nomads and other companies to make sure you get the best rate.)

While there are countless places out there offering Cancun travel insurance, the three companies I highlight below will work for the vast majority of general travelers and Mexico digital nomads — so I’ll keep it simple.

Continue reading for detailed information on each of the three companies I recommend.

1. Travel Insurance Master

If you’re someone who likes to compare a wide variety of options, they have simplified and streamed the complex world of travel insurance down to just five questions before giving you a list of quotes.

Travel Insurance Master is an online travel insurance aggregator, providing an easy solution for your followers.

The operative word here is easy! Travel Insurance Master has simplified and stream-lined the process down so much that they even had this feature in Forbes magazine about how revolutionary their search tool is.

Travel Insurance Master’s smart algorithm recommends the best plan and value for your unique trip from 10 reputable providers, like Travelex, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, IMG, GoReady, Trawick International and AIG.

The easy part is that you only answer 3-5 simple questions before you get your results in an easy-to-digest comparison table. With side-by-side results, it’s quick and easy to pick thee best policy for you.

🚨 Get your FREE quote from Travel Insurance Master now!

✅ Travel Insurance Master Offers CFAR Claims

Wondering, What is a CFAR claim? As the world still isn’t “back to normal” just yet, some companies added CFAR coverage, which means Cancel For Any Reason .

With Travel Insurance Master , you can easily see which companies have CFAR coverage. When searching for a plan, simply toggle on the option for CFAR, and you’ll only see policies that offer it.

Besides CFAR, they also offer a wide range of benefits other companies don’t.

They have one of the only Pandemic Plus Plans of any travel insurance company. These provide refundable trip expenses in the event of Covid for added peace of mind, protection and flexibility while you travel.

📲 Need assistance? Call their toll-free number at 1-800-614-8505.

2. SafetyWing Travel Insurance

SafetyWing is a favorite of long-term travelers and digital nomads who plan to stay a while. It is the company I personally use for health insurance — as I think it’s the best health insurance for expats in Mexico.

With Mexico’s generous six month/180-day FMM tourist visa (found on your Immigration Form), SafetyWing is the perfect travel insurance provider if you’ll be in Mexico for a long period of time.

SafetyWing insurance policies start at just $42 USD per month (less than $500 USD for annual travel insurance) — which is a no brainer . This deal is so good that I’m actually a customer of SafetyWing myself!

Basic policies cover travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses while you’re in Mexico, so you can visit with total peace of mind, for very little money.

🚨 Get your FREE SafetyWing quote now!

🩺 Safety Wing now Offers Mexico health insurance plans

SafetyWing has gained in popularity in recent years, and now offers a variety of plans. Inn fact, this is the company I use for health insurance.

Besides travel insurance, they offer medical insurance under their Remote Health Plan , which you can buy for a single trip, a business trip or as coverage during a long stay in Mexico. ▶ Get your FREE quote here!

3. World Nomads Travel Insurance Mexico

When it comes to worldwide travel insurance, World Nomads is recommended by more travel companies (like Hostel World ) and travel bloggers (like Nomadic Matt) than any other.

They keep it simple with just two plans, the Explorer Plan and Standard Plan , though you can purchase custom coverage add-ons.

Standard Plan: As the name states, the Standard Plan is the standard (ie. minimum) coverage any Mexico traveler would want.

Depending on what you pay for, this plan includes a range of benefits, like medical assistance and overseas medical care, coverage for your belongings, pre-trip cancelation and a few adventure activities.

Explorer Plan: This plan has all the benefits of a Standard Plan and a few more, like emergency medical evacuation.

For those planning to do a lot of adventure activities, like climbing the Mayan Ruins near Cancun , or will be traveling with very expensive gear, this plan offers more extensive coverage.

The Explorer Plan is also one of the only I’ve seen that offers a Mexico driving insurance add-on.

If you plan on renting a car in Cancun , you will need Mexico car insurance — as your U.S. auto policy insurance (or home country policy) won’t be accepted in Mexico.

🚨 Get your FREE World Nomads quote via Travel Insurance Master now!

5 Reasons You Should Buy Mexico Travel Insurance

1. Loss or theft of your belongings and luggage

Enjoy peace of mind for everything from the airline losing your luggage, to you dropping your phone in the pool, or having your laptop stolen.

Theft protection is essential if you have expensive items like designer clothing or sunglasses, jewelry, your computer and camera gear with you.

🏝️ Do I need travel insurance for Mexico all inclusive resorts?

Yes — The policy will kick in if you lose your Dior sunglasses, get your iPhone stolen, or need medical attention from drinking too much at the open bar (it happens).

While you’ll be covered to an extent by the resort’s insurance, it’s not 100%fa. Without insurance, you’re not covered by the resort for personal items or emergencies like these where the resort will claim no fault.

Looking for Cancun resort recommendations? Check out these 17 Best All Inclusive Cancun Resorts for Families .

2. Travel medical insurance coverage in emergencies

No one can plan for accidents, inclement weather, trip interruption, medical emergencies, baggage loss on an overseas trip, etc.

While travel souvenirs are great to take home — huge and unexpected medical bills aren’t one of the souvenirs you’ll cherish forever.

3. Covid travel insurance in Mexico

The world changed forever in early-2020 with the pandemic. Nowadays, all Mexico travel health insurance plans do include Covid coverage for all travelers.

The three companies I recommend, Travel Insurance Master , Safety Wing Insurance and World Nomads Insurance , all include policies that have Covid-19 coverage.

4. Reimbursement for trip cancelation you make

Life can be unpredictable! Though you may have a solid travel plan in place when you book your trip to Mexico, if something comes up and you’re forced to cancel, trip cancellation insurance covers unforeseen changes and cancellations.

5. Travel itinerary changes you didn’t make

Sometimes, travel plan changes can come via the airline, cruise ship, or tour company you’re with. In cases like these, you’d also be covered by Mexico travel insurance.

Let’s say you’re stranded in a city due to a flight cancellation — your insurance will cover your hotel room for the night, and more.

Best Travel Insurance for Cancun Mexico FAQ

How much is travel insurance to mexico.

This depends on the company you buy it from, your age, length of the trip, how much coverage you want, etc. — but plan for $5-25 USD per day.

For basic and minimal coverage, you might spend about $5-10 USD per day.

If you need a more comprehensive plan with extra protection, it might be $10-15 USD per day.

If you’re insuring a lot of equipment, like a brand new laptop and expensive camera equipment, your policy might be about $15-25 USD per day.

The good news is you can get a FREE quote to see how much your plan will cost. Head to the places linked below to get a FREE quote from the top Mexico insurance companies.

• Travel Insurance Master — Want to compare plan prices? Use this Mexico travel insurance search tool.
• SafetyWing Insurance — For Mexico digital nomads and long-term travelers
• World Nomads Insurance — For general travel insurance plans

💡 Cancun Travel Insurance Tip: As soon as you purchase a policy, share it with a trusted loved one or family member so they have a copy as well.

Why is travel insurance to Mexico so expensive?

As with all insurance, it’s expensive because in the event you’d need to file a claim, you may collect 100X more money than you paid in.

Why is Mexico travel insurance so expensive? is actually a common question — though it always depends on who’s asking it because cheap and expensive are relative terms.

Among the best cheap Mexico travel insurance companies I have ever seen, SafetyWing has policies that start at just $40 USD for a whole month of coverage . With rates this good, I’m actually a customer myself.

If you factor insurance into the total trip cost, that could help with planning your realistic Mexico travel budget.

Where can I compare Mexico travel insurance quotes?

Travel Insurance Master is ideal if you’re someone who likes to compare a wide variety of options. They have simplified and streamed the complex world of travel insurance down to just five questions before giving you a list of quotes.

Is Mexico in the USA for travel insurance purposes?

The answer is that it’s usually classified as Mexico — separate from the U.S., Canada and Caribbean.

While we share a land border, Mexico and the U.S. are considered two different regions for trip insurance purposes.

Though the Yucatan Peninsula in eastern Mexico sits on the Caribbean Sea, Mexico is also not usually considered the Caribbean for insurance purposes.

I hope this cleared up the What does Mexico come under for travel insurance? question. However, keep in mind that different insurers set their own parameters, so you’ll always want to double check before purchasing.

Is travel insurance legally required for Mexico travel?

No — However, some say it’s more important now than ever, after Covid made travel insurance a must-have rather than an optional purchase.

For the peace of mind it brings, many travelers buy Mexico travel insurance coverage for emergency situations, though it’s not legally required.

What happens if I travel without travel insurance in Mexico?

Legally speaking: Nothing. However, the point of insurance is to have your back during those worst case scenario moments.

Traveling without insurance is risky, and you’ll regret not having it if even one of your worst case scenarios play out, like travel delays or any trip delays of any kind, serious illness and theft.

In the case of hospitalization, having travel insurance for Cancun, or not , will mean the difference between a $0 hospital bill or paying a lot of money out of your own pocket.

Even if you’re still on the fence about Mexico travel insurance, just get a FREE travel insurance quote and go from there.

Can I use my U.S. health insurance in Mexico?

Wondering, Does American insurance work in Mexico? For most travelers, no , it most likely will not.

However, different insurers and policies can always have clauses added in which will give you Mexico coverage; you’ll want to call and verify this with the company directly.

Before purchasing a Mexico international travel insurance policy, check with your United States health insurance company first to see if they offer some form of global health insurance coverage that would include Mexico.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Mexico?

No — Mexico travel insurance is not mandatory. You have no legal requirement to purchase general Mexico travel insurance to travel to Mexico, or even medical travel insurance.

When you arrive in Mexico, no one will ask you to show proof of insurance at any airport, land border or sea port. In short: Whether or not you purchase travel insurance is up to you!

Do Americans need a travel insurance Cancun Mexico policy?

No — There are no requirements to have insurance for Cancun Mexico for business or leisure travel. However, travel insurance for Mexico (or anywhere) often comes highly recommended by anyone who travels a lot.

Though not required, it’s common for travelers to purchase a good travel insurance policy for peace of mind. For many, the risk of getting Covid has turned travel insurance from an optional purchase into a must-have.

What isn’t covered by Mexico travel insurance policies?

As nearly all insurance companies provide emergency medical coverage nowadays, insurance for Mexico travel likely won’t cover pre-existing medical conditions.

If you need medical treatment or have a medical emergency related to a pre existing conditions, your coverage can be denied.

Pre-existing conditions aside, you can customize policies to cover everything from extreme sports and adventure sports (ie. climbing Mayan ruins in Cancun , swimming in the cenotes near Cancun and riding ATVs and zip lines ).

You can also get long-term general medical insurance Mexico coverage for digital nomads with SafetyWing .

For example, the Explorer Plan with World Nomads covers everything from Covid-19 medical coverage, dental and emergency care, delayed baggage, trip cancelation, medical evacuation coverage, physical damage to your belongings, and even lost or stolen luggage.

What insurance do I need for Mexico?

The only Mexico insurance you actually need to have is Mexico car insurance for driving to Mexico and driving in Mexico.

Travelers who aren’t going to drive in Mexico don’t even need this. However, this is the only Mexican insurance you do actually need , and that’s only if you’re planning to drive in Mexico or drive to Mexico.

🚙💨 Car Rentals in CANCUN Mexico

When I rent a car in Mexico, I always use Discover Cars — and opt for the full coverage insurance through them.

It has only cost me about $7 USD per day for complete peace of mind while traveling. Full coverage through Mexico car rental companies often costs much more.

For a deep drive into this subject, check out Renting A Car in Cancun: Everything You Need to Know .

Do I need car insurance for Mexico? 

Yes — When driving in Mexico, you legally must have Mexico car insurance.

The minimum required coverage is Personal Liability, which you can get through your most car rental companies — though know that some places charge much more than others for Cancun cat rental insurance.

When I rent a car in Mexico, I always use and also recommend Discover Cars . I have paid about $7-10 USD per day for full coverage insurance!

Given how little they charge, I always take their full coverage policy for peace of mind while I’m traveling in Mexico.

Can I get Mexico car insurance through my credit card?

Some U.S. credit cards offer free Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) car rental insurance coverage for their card-holders. However, many Mexican car rental agencies no longer honor it.

As CDW is less than the required Personal Liability Insurance you need to drive in Mexico, many national Mexico car rental companies no longer honor CDW. In years past, they used to, however, in recent years, most no longer will.

🚙 Can I buy Mexican auto insurance at the border?

No — You won’t find any companies selling auto insurance to travel to Mexico at land border crossings. However, you will need to show it before you cross the border when driving to Mexico .

Get your FREE quote from Baja Bound — a trusted name in Mexican car insurance for Americans, with great reviews and fair rates.

Does Mexico require Covid insurance?

No — Foreign residents are not legally required to show any type of Mexico travel insurance, any health insurance plan, or any type of coverage at all when entering Cancun, Mexico.

Does travel insurance cover Covid quarantine?

Most international insurance for travelers does not provide this coverage. However, it doesn’t apply in Mexico at all, as there’s no required quarantine period when traveling to Mexico.

Note: This applies to both vaccinated and non-vaccinated travelers.

If the Covid-19 pandemic taught us anything, it’s that life can change completely from one moment to the next. Even with pre-Covid travel, if there was one certainty you had while traveling, it’s that things rarely go according to plan.

For these reasons, the better question to ask yourself is: Should I buy travel insurance for Cancun? — and that answer is a resounding YES!

Just as you insure your home, car and possessions, so too can you insure your health, luggage and belongings while traveling to Mexico.

After the world opened back up in 2021, and travel was back on so many peoples’ agendas, Mexico tourist insurance for Cancun travel became a necessity for many.

Cancun Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cancun safe for travelers?

Yes — For the majority of travelers, Cancun is safe. If you want to do a deep dive into this topic, check out Is Cancun Safe for Travel Right Now?

Now, that’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Cancun; they do. However, if you follow the same general travel guidelines you would anywhere else, you’ll likely be safe in Cancun — along with million of others who visit each year.

Mexico travel insurance is one way to protect yourself, but you should also stay aware of yourself, your surroundings and your belongings all times, and avoid people and situations that seem unsafe.

💃 Doing some solo travel in Cancun Mexico? Check out this Cancun Solo Travel Guide for tips and info on what to expect when traveling to Cancun alone.

What’s the best time to visit Cancun?

November to March — This is when you’ll get the best weather in Cancun. However, it is also the high season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Many travelers don’t factor sever weather in when planning a trip to Cancun.

Located on the Caribbean Sea, Cancun and much of North America is susceptible to hurricanes and severe storm weather from June 1-November 30 during Atlantic Hurricane Season.

In the Summer and Fall months, you can also expect some ran each day, even if there aren’t bad storms. With the humidity, it can also feel like it’s 100°F (38°C) — or more!

Check out these month by month guides to Cancun travel, so you know what to expect and how to plan for your trip, no matter then you’re visiting.

• Cancun in January
• Cancun in February
• Cancun in March
• Cancun in April
• Cancun in May
• Cancun in June
• Cancun in July
• Cancun in August
• Cancun in September
• Cancun in October
• Cancun in November
• Cancun in December

Is Mexico open for travel right now?

Yes — In fact, it never closed to international travelers coming by air. The land borders closed for those driving to Mexico , however, they fully reopened on November 8, 2021.

This was great news for travelers who want to drive to Mexico (read more about Mexico driving insurance here ).

With tourism such a crucial part of the economy, Mexico never closed to flights.

While cruise travel was on hold for a bit, popular tourist destinations like Cozumel Island near Cancun, Cabo San Lucas , Puerto Vallarta and Puerto Progreso reopened their docks in late-2021.

🛳 Looking for Mexico cruise insurance? Get a FREE quote from Travel Insurance Master now, which has dedicated Mexico travel insurance plans for cruise travelers.

Since you can travel to Mexico right now, let’s look at the travel insurance options you have from the companies offering the best travel medical insurance for Mexico.

You’ll also learn about some of the many reasons why you should get Mexico insurance coverage. For more information on the Mexico travel situation right now, head here .

Is it safe to travel to Cancun right now? 

To disperse the most current information, the Mexican government uses a traffic light map , called the Semáforo Epidemiológico , to inform the public about the Covid numbers in each Mexican state .

🚦 Mexico Traffic Light System for Covid-19

There are four different colored lights, reminiscent of a traffic light. The colors go from green (no restrictions), to yellow, then orange, then red (maximum restrictions in place).

The map is updated every two weeks, so it’s a good idea to check it here when making any Mexico travel plans.

To use the map, you’ll have to check each state to get its color. Cancun is in Quintana Roo State , located on the Caribbean Sea in southeastern Mexico — so make sure you’re checking the numbers for Quintana Roo .

Do I need a negative Covid test for Mexico travel?

No — You don’t have to provide negative Coronavirus test results to enter Mexico. Also, U.S. citizens do not need to show proof of a negative Covid test when they return to the U.S.

For those from other countries who do, you’ll find rapid testing centers all over the country, as well as in some Mexico airports.

How much does a Covid test cost in Mexico?

There’s no set price, so it depends on where you’re traveling. However, you’ll likely spend $25-35 USD ($500-750 Mexican pesos) for the rapid test; PCR tests cost more.

In popular tourist destination hubs like Cancun , Tulum or Playa del Carmen , they tend to cost a bit more than in a remote areas and Mexico off the beaten path destinations.

😷 Note: Most Cancun all inclusive resort properties and some hotels offer FRREE on-site Covid testing for guests.

Do you need the Covid vaccine to go to Mexico?

No — No one will check to see if you’re vaccinated when you enter Mexico. There are essentially no entry requirements for Mexico, aside from a valid passport.

Is there a quarantine period in Mexico?

No — Travelers are not required to quarantine in Mexico for any amount of time.

🩺 Note: If you enter Mexico and have Covid-19 symptoms, contact the Mexican Sanidad Internacional health organization immediately, or visit a nearby medical facility for a Covid test.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Travel Insurance for Cancun Mexico?

While on your Mexico vacation, you’ll want to be prepared with travel insurance coverage for the worst case scenario.

It’s the last thing anyone wants to think about — though it makes more sense to think about it before you actually need to. After all, you don’t need insurance… until you need insurance!

Since we can’t plan for every single thing that may arise, the best way to cover all bases is a Mexico travel health insurance policy.

With a good plan from a reputable insurer, like Travel Insurance Master , World Nomads or SafetyWing , you have the peace of mind to fully enjoy Mexico — even if (or when) something unforeseen arises.

Disclaimer: Always Read the Fine Print

The caveat with insurance policies is that you must read the fine print!

There are plenty of bad reviews out there about every single travel insurance company — however, when you dig a bit deeper, you see it’s often someone assuming something was covered that actually wasn’t.

The best thing to do is take some time to read the fine print, or call the company and ask about your specific questions and concerns.

While this can take some time, should you have to file a claim, you’ll have no issues getting any financial loss recouped from the insurance company.

Register for the U.S. STEP Program

Besides your Mexico travel insurance plan, you’ll want to register for the FREE STEP Program , provided by the U.S. Department of State.

STEP, Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, offers US citizens assistance in the event of medical emergencies, natural disaster events, and more.

Simply enter your flight and date information and where you’re staying in Mexico, and you’ll be given a contact at the nearest U.S. Embassy, Consulate or Development Office.

While there’s no U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate in Cancun, there’s this Consular Agency in Cancun , which is basically a satellite office. In the event of an emergency, they will assist you with safely returning to the U.S.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance for Mexico?

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Table of Contents

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico?

What are the different types of mexican travel insurance, which credit cards offer travel insurance, where can you purchase more coverage, final thoughts on buying travel insurance for mexico.

Planning a trip to Mexico? The country has a lot to offer to globetrotters: breathtaking beaches, flavorful food, and striking sights. Plus, it’s easy to get to with nonstop flights from many U.S. hubs.

Once you’ve booked your ticket, you might be wondering if you should buy travel insurance for your Mexico trip. Here's a look at whether Mexico travel insurance is required, what credit cards offer trip coverage and where else you can buy a policy if you need additional protections.

If you’re a frequent traveler, something going wrong on your travels isn't a matter of if, but a matter of when. You could experience an overnight delay, your bag might not make it to your destination or your rental car may no longer be where you parked it.

Because traveling is anything but perfect, you might consider purchasing a travel insurance policy for a variety of reasons, including:

To protect the upfront costs in case of a cancellation or a delay.

To protect yourself from a costly bill in case of an emergency medical situation.

Although travel insurance isn’t required for Mexico, many people still choose to purchase it. You’ll want to take a look at the overall trip and expenses while you consider your options .

For example, are you renting a car for a self-drive adventure? You might consider a policy that includes rental accident coverage . Is the cruise you booked out of Cozumel setting sail the day you arrive? You might want to have missed-connection coverage. Will you be traveling to Cancun during hurricane season? Look for a plan that covers inclement weather .

Travel insurance coverage ranges from basic to extended and the limits vary. You will typically find the following types of insurance and coverage in a comprehensive travel insurance plan.

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance provides coverage for death or losing a limb, sight, hearing or speech as a result of an accident.

Baggage delay reimburses the cost of essential items paid for in the first few days of not receiving your checked bag.

Baggage loss reimburses the cost of your suitcase and belongings should a checked bag become lost, stolen or damaged.

Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation insurance provides coverage for transportation to the nearest medical facility or your home country (including the transport of remains).

Rental car collision damage waiver offers insurance against damage or theft of a rental car.

Trip cancellation reimburses prepaid nonrefundable costs if you must cancel a trip for an unforeseen covered reason, such as illness or a natural disaster (note that this doesn’t provide Cancel For Any Reason coverage).

Trip delay covers transportation, meals and lodging should your common carrier be delayed or you can’t return home because of quarantine.

Trip interruption reimburses you for unused, nonrefundable costs if the trip has to be cut short for a covered reason and you must return home.

» Learn more: Is travel insurance worth it?

Before you decide to buy independent travel insurance for Mexico, check to see if you already have coverage provided as a benefit of one of your travel credit cards . With most cards, the coverage limits are typically lower than on a comprehensive plan, but it’s better than nothing.

The following cards provide coverage against trip delay, baggage delay or loss, travel accidents, and rental car collision damage:

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

United℠ Explorer Card .

Terms apply.

If you hold one of the cards above, or perhaps a different credit card, familiarize yourself with the benefits guide. You might be pleasantly surprised to know that several items of a comprehensive travel insurance plan are included as long as you pay for the trip with that credit card.

One of the most valuable perks is collision damage insurance for a rental car. However — and we can’t stress this enough — beware that the rental car collision damage waiver included with the cards above doesn’t cover the liability insurance that car rental companies in Mexico require.

You might be surprised to arrive at the rental car counter after having reserved an inexpensive vehicle only to be hit with an astronomical fee on top of the bill. Before you yell at the agent, know that the charge is legitimate as this coverage is required by law. Either obtain the required coverage before arriving in Mexico or pay for a liability plan from the rental company .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Although trip insurance that comes with travel rewards credit cards is good to have, you might notice that some of the coverage limits aren’t particularly high. If you feel like you need better travel insurance for Mexico, consider investing in a comprehensive independent policy.

Travel insurance marketplaces, like InsureMyTrip, Squaremouth orTravelGuard can help you find trip coverage, compare quotes and narrow down a plan for your needs and at your price point. Travel insurance providers include AXA Assistance, Battleface, GoReady, IMG , Seven Corners , Trawick International, Nationwide and more.

Depending on the plan, you can get coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, baggage delay or loss, rental car collision damage waiver, emergency medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage. You might even get COVID-19 coverage with some plans, so make sure to read over each plan’s terms carefully.

With travel insurance marketplace tools, you can filter quote results based on what you want the policy to cover, including coronavirus pandemic, quarantine extension or pre-existing conditions .

It’s worth noting that general travel insurance doesn’t cover extreme sports like scuba diving, so if you plan on diving in the cenotes of Yucatan Peninsula or at Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas, consider purchasing scuba diving insurance from DiveAssure, Divers Alert Network or World Nomads .

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance versus independent travel insurance

Travel insurance can help put your mind at ease in case something goes wrong on your trip. Although you don’t have to buy travel insurance for Mexico, you might give the idea a second thought as you never know what can happen abroad. Luckily, many credit cards provide some basic coverage, and if you need more protection, you can always purchase a comprehensive plan that fits your needs.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Best Travel Insurance for Mexico: Your Ticket to Peace of Mind

Jessica Merritt

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‌Best Mexico Travel Insurance for Young Travelers: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

‌best mexico travel insurance for seniors: nationwide, ‌best mexico travel insurance for cancel for any reason (cfar): battleface, best mexico travel insurance for adventure tours: travelex, best mexico travel insurance for covid-19: tin leg, is travel insurance for mexico worth it, mexico travel insurance costs, types of mexico travel insurance, what to look for in a travel insurance policy for mexico, how to get travel insurance for mexico, final thoughts.

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Heading south of the border? Consider getting travel insurance before you pack your bags. Even though Mexico is a nearby destination with direct flights for many Americans, it’s still international travel, and you may benefit from a travel insurance policy that can protect your nonrefundable travel booking costs and offer medical support.

Although travel insurance can add to the cost of travel, it offers peace of mind and can safeguard you against unforeseen circumstances that pop up during your trip. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide financial protection for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unexpected travel disruptions.

Read on to learn why Mexico travel insurance is often a good idea, how much you’ll pay, what’s covered, and how to find the best policies.

The 5 Best Travel Insurance Policies for Mexico

The best travel insurance for Mexico should offer the coverage you need at a reasonable price. We’ve run the numbers for policy scenarios based on age, coverage, and activities so you can get an idea of what Mexico travel insurance policies look like.

Consider these travel insurance policies for your trip to Mexico:

Snapping up cheap travel insurance is fairly easy for young travelers, as insurance companies tend to offer favorable rates for young adults. We were quoted just $16 for a 25-year-old visiting Mexico . This Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection ExactCare Lite plan offers relatively low trip cancellation coverage of up to $500 and up to $750 for trip cancellation. Still, it has $10,000 in secondary medical and $100,000 in medical evacuation benefits.

While seniors don’t get to take advantage of ultra-cheap travel insurance, Nationwide’s Essential plan offers good coverage at a reasonable price. For $93.95, a 65-year-old visiting Mexico can get trip cancellation coverage up to $2,500 and trip interruption coverage up to $3,125 . Primary medical coverage offers up to $75,000 in benefits, and there’s also $250,000 in medical evacuation benefits.

CFAR allows you to get reimbursed for nonrefundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip for any reason. Battleface’s Discovery Plan was quoted to us for $104.21 with up to $2,500 in CFAR trip cancellation coverage for a 45-year-old visiting Mexico. While it excels in trip cancellation coverage, this policy has no trip interruption coverage. Secondary medical benefits are up to $100,000, and medical evacuation coverage offers up to $500,000.

If you’re planning adventurous activities in Mexico, you need a travel insurance policy for adventure tours that will cover you even if you get hurt. A Travelex Travel Select plan — $136 for a 45-year-old visiting Mexico — covers activities such as scuba diving and hiking with up to $50,000 in primary medical coverage and $500,000 for medical evacuations.

If you’re concerned that COVID-19 might derail your travel plans before departure or while traveling, getting a travel insurance policy that covers COVID-19 is a good idea. We got a quote of $54 for Tin Leg’s Economy plan for a 35-year-old visiting Mexico . Tin Leg’s trip cancellation and interruption coverage of up to $2,500 includes COVID-19. The $20,000 in secondary medical coverage also includes COVID-19.

Travel insurance is worth it when you have significant nonrefundable travel expenses or concerns about the cost of medical care or evacuation at your destination . It’s also helpful if you might need travel assistance .

You might not be too worried about losing nonrefundable travel expenses if you’ve booked cheap travel deals to Mexico or if your bookings are fully refundable. But if you’ve booked costly Mexico travel plans that you can’t get refunded, travel insurance can give you flexibility and peace of mind if those plans change.

Even though Mexico is just across the border, you shouldn’t plan on your U.S.-based health insurance to offer coverage while you travel to Mexico. Travel insurance generally offers emergency medical coverage that can alleviate financial concerns if you get sick or hurt while in Mexico. That’s helpful if you pick up Montezuma’s revenge or mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria or Zika virus .

For more serious concerns, medical evacuation coverage can get you to qualified medical care or bring you home. The availability of medical care in Mexico varies depending on where you’re visiting, so it could be a great distance to reach a medical facility equipped to treat you. Medical evacuations can be costly, and most travel insurance policies offer 6-figure benefits if you need them.

Cruise travel insurance can be beneficial if you’re planning a cruise to Mexico. Cruise travel tends to be unforgiving with refunds, and you could lose your deposit or more. Generally, cruise lines don’t offer refunds if you cancel within 14 or 30 days before your cruise. But if you have cruise travel insurance , you could get a refund.

While trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical coverage are the primary benefits of most travel insurance policies for Mexico, travel assistance services can help you when you need it most. Generally, travel insurance assistance hotlines can help with medical referrals, emergency prescription replacement assistance, emergency cash, roadside assistance, travel rebooking, and more.

Expect to pay 5% to 10% of your total trip cost for comprehensive travel insurance for Mexico. For a $2,500 trip, for example, that’s $125 to $250. That generally includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage for at least the cost of your trip, emergency medical and evacuation coverage, and 24-hour travel assistance . However, your travel insurance costs can vary depending on factors that influence policy costs, including:

• Additional features such as CFAR
• Coverage options
• Deductibles and limits
• Travel destination
• Traveler age
• Trip duration

Read our guide to the average cost of travel insurance to learn more about travel insurance costs.

What Mexico Travel Insurance Covers

Travel insurance coverage depends on the policy you select, but you can generally expect comprehensive travel insurance for Mexico to include:

• 24/7 Travel Assistance: Whether you need help finding help in a medical emergency, need replacement credit cards or identification, or have to rebook travel, support is available from travel insurance hotlines.
• Emergency Medical: Travel insurance generally offers financial support for medical emergencies with primary or secondary medical insurance.
• Emergency Evacuation: Travel insurance can pay for costly emergency medical evacuations if you’re seriously ill or injured and need to be moved for medical care.
• Lost or Delayed Baggage: Baggage protection offers coverage if your baggage is lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed and you need to buy replacement items.
• Rental Car Damage: Some travel insurance policies can provide reimbursement if your rental car is damaged in an accident or stolen while you’re on a covered trip.
• Trip Cancellation: You can cancel your trip for covered reasons and get reimbursed for nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Trip Interruption: While traveling, trip interruption coverage can offer refunds for nonrefundable travel expenses if you need to cut your travel short.

With many options for travel insurance, you can customize your travel insurance for Mexico and choose as little or as much coverage as you need . Additional coverage options may include adventure sports or CFAR coverage, which allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and receive partial reimbursement.

CFAR coverage can be especially helpful if you’re traveling during hurricane season and want to be able to cancel your trip if there’s a chance of a storm hitting during your travel dates.

These coverages can add to your travel insurance policy’s cost, so if you’re hoping to get cheap Mexico travel insurance, limiting your policy to primarily trip cancellation and medical coverage may be helpful.

If you’re visiting an area of Mexico with travel advisories for crime and kidnapping , you might consider a kidnapping insurance policy . This type of policy, commonly known as kidnap, ransom, or extortion insurance, is more common for business travel than personal. It can pay a ransom if you’re kidnapped while traveling. Kidnapping coverage is generally not covered by comprehensive travel insurance, so you need a separate policy if you want this type of coverage.

As you shop for Mexico travel insurance policies, consider these important factors that can affect your experience, costs, and coverage:

• Cancellation Timeframe: Verify the cancellation window, which is how long before your trip you need to cancel it to receive full reimbursement.
• Cost: It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes from insurance companies to compare prices and coverage before choosing a policy.
• Coverage Availability: Check the policy’s coverage to make sure it has all of the coverage areas you want, such as trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, and emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Also, look for additional coverage options such as adventure sports and CFAR.
• Coverage Limits: Understand how much you’ll be reimbursed in specific situations, such as canceling your trip or needing emergency medical coverage.
• Customer Reviews: Read travel insurance reviews before you purchase your policy to find out how other customers have rated their experience with the provider.
• Eligibility: Check the fine print to make sure you and your trip are eligible for travel coverage depending on criteria such as age, trip duration, and preexisting conditions.
• Natural Disasters: Mexico is prone to hurricanes, so make sure your trip cancellation and interruption coverage applies to natural disasters.
• Policy Limitations: Travel insurance isn’t a blank check, so you should know what’s excluded and how much is covered. For example, a policy might not cover canceling your trip for work reasons, or medical coverage might not apply if you’re injured doing adventure sports.

You might travel to Mexico with a pet, as most pets don’t require a health certificate to enter Mexico . However, travel insurance policies rarely extend to pets, so you’re not covered if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to pet health, and pet medical expenses aren’t covered either. It’s best to get a pet health insurance policy that works internationally if you’re concerned about travel insurance coverage for your pet.

You may have the opportunity to purchase travel insurance when you book your travel, or you can shop independently for Mexico travel insurance.

Travel agents, airlines, and online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Expedia and Booking.com may give you the option to buy travel insurance at booking. These travel insurance policies are generally offered by third-party travel insurance companies working with the travel company. 

But before you buy travel insurance at booking, it’s a good idea to compare directly with travel insurance companies . You can do so by visiting the travel insurance company websites or using a travel insurance comparison engine such as Squaremouth , where you can get travel insurance quotes from multiple travel insurance companies simultaneously.

Just don’t wait too long to buy your policy: it’s best to buy travel insurance within 2 weeks of making your first trip payment so you can make the most of your coverage.

Also, consider whether you have travel insurance coverage from another source, such as your credit card. Many travel credit cards, such as Chase Sapphire Reserve ® and The Platinum Card ® from American Express , offer travel insurance benefits. Depending on your benefits, you could get coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, baggage delay or loss, rental car damage, medical treatment, medical evacuation, and more from your credit card. Just be sure to check policy limitations and exclusions and consider getting a travel insurance policy if your credit card’s coverage isn’t enough.

Visit our guide to learn about the best credit cards for travel insurance and protection .

Before you head down to Mexico, secure your trip with a travel insurance policy that can help with unexpected circumstances and assure you that you’re covered if anything goes wrong. Compare costs, coverage, and reviews to find the best Mexico travel insurance for your needs.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What insurance do i need to travel to mexico.

You should get comprehensive travel insurance for Mexico that includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage, along with coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuations, and 24/7 travel assistance.

Does my U.S. health insurance cover me in Mexico?

Some U.S. health insurance policies may cover treatment in Mexico, but it’s not common, and you should check your policy to be sure. In most cases, Mexican medical providers are not covered by U.S. health insurance companies, so it’s a good idea to get comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical coverage.

What is usually covered by travel insurance?

Travel insurance commonly covers trip cancellations and interruptions, medical emergencies, baggage protection, travel delays, and emergency evacuations.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico?

Traveling safely in Mexico depends on where you’re going. While some areas in Mexico have elevated levels of crime and require more caution than others, there are many safe places to visit in Mexico. You should always exercise caution while traveling and pay attention to travel advisories .

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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The Best Travel Insurance for Mexico

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Are you traveling to Mexico? This post on the best travel insurance for Mexico will help you figure out how to choose the right insurance for you.

Because you do need travel insurance when you travel to Mexico or anywhere else!

That is why getting travel insurance should be on your pre-travel checklist!

You wouldn’t want a cancellation, medical emergency, or stolen luggage to ruin your vacation and decimate your holiday savings! In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know to get the best travel insurance for Mexico.

Mexico is full of fascinating cultures, fun, expressive, and passionate people, delicious food, and intriguing traditions.

Even though Mexico is fairly safe and friendly, any time you’re traveling in a foreign country, you never quite know what will happen.

SafetyWing Travel Insurance Company Special Features

Silver nomads plan: ages 70+, ► protect your investment, do i need mexico car insurance, crime concerns, the ultimate packing list for mexico.

You could get “Montezuma’s Revenge” from eating at the wrong restaurant, (or for just eating) need to return home early because of a family emergency, or have an accident.

Hopefully, none of these things will happen to you, but you’ll rest easier knowing you are prepared for anything life might throw your way!

That’s why it’s so important to get travel insurance, in case you need to stay in Mexico longer, or in case you must delay your trip.

It’s also important to have insurance to cover accidents, emergencies, or lost or stolen baggage.

You’ve probably saved up a lot for this special trip to Mexico! It makes sense to spend a little more in order to protect your investment.

Plus, you’ll give yourself a healthy dose of peace of mind as well! And you will enjoy your trip more.

Top 2 Best Mexico Travel Insurance Companies that I recommend

The three best Mexico travel insurance companies are SafetyWing , and TravelInsuranceMaster to compare different travel insurance companies.

I’ll talk about the advantages of each one, and the reasons you might choose a particular plan or company over another. Let’s dive in!

Best Travel Insurance for Mexico Digital Nomads

If you are a digital nomad living in Mexico, I think SafetyWing is your best bet! This is a favorite company for anyone who plans to stay (or live) in Mexico for a long period. 

SafetyWing Mexico travel insurance policies start as low as 40 USD a month, which is an awesome deal!

SafetyWing meets the medical and travel needs of digital nomads.

SafetyWing Nomad’s Main Inclusions

This insurance covers unexpected illness and injury, including:

✔ Hospital bills

✔ Intensive Care

✔ Ambulance

✔ Urgent Charges

✔ Physical Therapy/Chiropractor

✔ Emergency Dental

COVID-19 Coverage includes

✔10 days of Quarantine

✔ *If ordered in advance by a physician

Trip Insurance coverage includes:

✔ Trip Interruption

✔ Travel delay (accommodation)

✔ Lost check luggage

✔ Political evacuation

✔ Emergency medical evacuation coverage

✔ Personal liability

✔ Accidental death & dismemberment

✅ You can purchase SafetyWing insurance even after your trip has begun. This can come in handy if you have to change providers, or forgot to purchase a travel insurance policy.

✅ SafetyWing will cover you for 30 days in your home country (or 15 days if the United States is your home country). This is handy if you need to return briefly to your home country, experience travel delays, etc.

✅ SafetyWing will cover two children under the age of 10 in your policy free of charge.

✅ You can pay for a specific trip, or pay on a rolling month-to-month basis, subscription style. Choose whichever is the best way for you!

▼ Get a free quote from Safety Wing here ▼

Check out what else you need to pack for mexico besides your travel insurance….

Wondering what to pack for your trip to Mexico? In this article, I am sharing the essential travel packing list for Mexico for every climate and season.

Best Mexico Travel Insurance for up to 69 ys old

If you are over sixty years old, consider Using Travel insurance Master as you can type your age in the form and the system will select all the insurances that will cover you.

Safety Wing also plans for up to 70 ys old

The safety wing nomad insurance also offers a plan for over 60s and below 70 starting from 150 USD per month.

The inclusions are the same described above.

If you are seventy years old or older, the best option would be using the Travel Insurance Master because it gives you the option to include all your details and what you want to include in your insurance and the system will select those ones that have the plan you ask for among many different insurance companies.

So you can include trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical expenses, and baggage loss coverage. You’ve got plenty of adventure left in you yet!

Best Travel Health Insurance for Remote Companies

If you run a business out of Mexico with remote workers and want to include a benefits package, SafetyWing has a great option called Remote Health .

This plan is a fully equipped health insurance plan that lets you add all team members to the same plan, no matter where they live.

You can add and remove workers at any time, and give dynamic coverage depending on whether they are full-time, part-time or contract workers.

Prices go down as your company grows. You can choose optional add-ons such as dental, maternity, and vaccinations. They also offer 24/7 medical assistance should you need it. Pretty cool.

Best Mexico Travel Insurance Search Tool

Choosing the best Mexico travel insurance isn’t always easy. That’s why I recommend you use this great search tool, if the above option didn’t satisfy your needs.

Travel Insurance Master is an excellent way to check rates for multiple travel insurance companies at once. Answer a few straightforward questions, and the system will recommend the best ten providers to meet your specific needs.

▼ Click on the Banner to get a free insurance quote from TIM! ▼

5 reasons you should buy travel insurance for Mexico

There are lots of reasons why buying travel insurance is a good idea. Here are the top five reasons you should seriously consider purchasing Mexico travel insurance plans.

► Unexpected Medical Expenses

Medical emergencies are a big reason to get Mexico travel insurance plans. To receive good medical care in Mexico you will need to go to private hospitals and medical institutions and they are very expensive.

Without travel insurance, you’ll either have no coverage for the procedure or have to pay all your medical costs upfront and then submit a claim to your medical insurance company, if they cover that.

► Flight Changes or Trip Cancellation

If you need to cancel your trip, experience a travel delay, or need to change flights, travel insurance can help cover these costs.

Sometimes your travel insurance can help cover the cost of hotel rooms if your flight is canceled or your travel plans are thrown for a loop.

► Baggage Loss

If your baggage gets lost or stolen on your trip, that would be a big bummer! Some travel insurance plans can help cover the extra cost of recuperating or replacing stolen belongings.

► U.S. State Department Recommends It

If you have an emergency overseas, your embassy can help, but that help only goes so far! 

The U.S. Embassy can connect you to local resources (such as getting you police contact numbers or recommending a medical facility), contact your family at home, and replace a stolen passport, but they DON’T pay for emergency evacuation (except in rare large-scale emergencies) or for your medical expenses.

Going on a trip is an investment. It’s an investment of money, but it’s also an investment in your happiness. 

It can be hard to spend more money on something you aren’t sure you’ll need, but it would be really sad for a minor (or major) mishap to ruin your trip or make you lose all the money you’ve put into airfare, etc.

How to choose the best Travel Insurance for Mexico: tips

✔ Consider what type of coverage you want. Do you want the minimum possible? Do you want a bunch of add-ons? Would you like to include adventure sports not usually covered? 

✔ Once you answer these questions, you’ll be better prepared to find the best travel insurance for your Mexico trip. Use the search tool to find the best plans.

✔ Get the full details before you buy. Read the fine print!

✔ Look for insurance well before your trip so you don’t feel stressed when making a choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is travel insurance legally required for mexico travel.

With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries now require visitors to have travel medical insurance coverage for their entire trip. But in Mexico, you don’t have to have it.

But regardless, having a travel insurance is just a way to get yourself out of trouble in case anything happens.

How much is travel insurance to Mexico?

Travel insurance to Mexico can cost anywhere from $40 USD per month to $160 or more for standard plans (no add-ons). It may cost more if you are a non-U.S. citizen.

What isn’t covered by Mexico travel insurance policies?

The coverage varies by company, but in general, most companies do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, cancer, very extreme sports, medical checkups, planned procedures, and that kind of thing. It is primarily for emergencies, unexpected events, and incidentals.

Can I use my U.S. health insurance in Mexico?

This is a common question among U.S. residents, and the answer is: “It depends.”

You cannot use Medicare in Mexico unless you purchase a plan with additional coverage (such as Medicare Advantage or Medigap).

You must contact your health insurance provider in order to find out whether your specific plan will cover medical treatment while you’re traveling in Mexico.

If they offer some coverage, it’s important to ask what the specifics and limitations are. Ask for the fine print so you can decide if purchasing additional travel insurance is the best option.

Find out if you would have to pay for any procedures out of pocket and then submit a claim.

Ask if they can get you a “Guarantee of Payment” certificate if you need one. An insurance company issues A Guarantee of Payment certificate to a hospital or other medical provider.

They provide it as proof that the hospital won’t get stuck with your bills.

One difficulty of getting your insurance company in the U.S. to cover bills while in Mexico is because the expense must be properly coded according to the United States system.

Often, Mexican hospitals aren’t sure how to describe or code the procedure properly. This can be a problem and mean you aren’t reimbursed for expenses.

Can I use my credit card travel insurance?

Most credit cards in the USA offer travel insurance but the kind of coverage really varies. So the best option is to contact them and make sure all the most important case scenarios are covered.

Does travel insurance cover Covid quarantine?

Some travel insurance companies cover COVID quarantines.

In this post, we talked about SafetyWing. This company covers up to 10 days of quarantine-related expenses.

Why is travel insurance to Mexico so expensive?

Travel insurance rates vary a lot depending on your home country and how long you’ll be traveling, your age, and other risk factors.

The longer your trip, the more likely it is that something will happen. 

International travel always comes with some risks. You may also be more likely to encounter viruses you aren’t immune to, like dengue fever, or to have some of your belongings get lost or stolen.

If you plan to take part in adventure sports, you might incur some extra costs to get medical coverage.

Travel insurance will also be more expensive if you want the benefit of a CFAR claim.

CFAR benefits (Cancel for any reason) mean that you’ll get a partial refund no matter why you cancel a trip, even for reasons not normally covered by travel insurance.

The good news is that you can often find travel insurance coverage at an affordable price. On average, travel insurance will cost 5% to 6% of your total trip cost.

If you are planning to drive in Mexico, then yes, you do need car insurance! It is usually best to get car insurance directly from the company you are renting from.

I recommend using Discover Cars . This is a great company, and they have their full coverage car insurance.

Or you can just use it to book the car with the least expensive car rentals and then buy the full coverage directly with them.

Although some travelers want to use their credit card insurance, you should make sure they really offer full coverage and check with the card company before making any decision. In any case, keep in mind that the car rental insurance provided by the credit card will always provide a refund for any damages afterward, when applicable. You will have to anticipate the money upfront.

Read my post about renting a car in Mexico for more information.

Discover Cars Mexico Review

Discover Cars is one of the most popular car rental for many reasons, among which:

✔︎ straight forward information ✔︎ full coverage add-on ✔︎ listing of different companies with reviews

Is Mexico open for travel right now?

Absolutely! Mexico is open for travel and has always been.

Visitors are not required to provide negative COVID-19 tests. However, you might have to go through some health screening and temperature checks at the airport.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? 

There are two things to consider when it comes to safety: Covid-19, and crime.

Covid-19 Concerns

Tour operators are taking safety precautions.

The Mexican government uses a stop light system to track COVID-19 cases. The traffic lights influence current restrictions in each state.

Red – This means there are a high number of cases and there could be a lot of travel restrictions. Some attractions, museums, beaches, bars, and restaurants may not be open.

Orange – This means that cases are still pretty high, so there may be restrictions in place. This could include limited occupancy in tourist sites and restaurants, required social distancing, and possibly city-wide curfews.

Yellow – This means there are still a moderate number of cases. There are not likely to be many restrictions in effect, but you should still use some caution.

Green – You’re in the clear! Everything should be open and operating as normal.

At the time I am writing this everything seems pretty much in the green area! so you are good to go!

Some areas of Mexico have high rates of crime. Petty theft, robbery, and scams are the most common things to affect tourists.

I have an entire blog post filled with tips on how to stay safe in Mexico .

Best Travel Insurance for Mexico: final thoughts

The best travel insurance for long trips to Mexico is the SafetyWing Nomad plan . It’s simple, straightforward, and affordable! 

If you are over 60 and don’t plan to stay in Mexico long-term, the SafetyWing Nomad plan is a great choice.

And if you are over 69 you should check on Travel Insurance Master for your best options.

No matter what option you choose, pat yourself on the back. Getting travel insurance for your trip is always going to be a win!

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Mexico Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for mexico.

Welcome to Mexico! A country brimming with vibrant colors, rich history and a tapestry of cultural marvels. From the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza to the sun-kissed beaches of Cancun, Mexico beckons millions of travelers each year to indulge in its diverse landscapes and warm hospitality. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of travel insurance tailored for Mexico, ensuring your journey is not only filled with the enchantment of mariachi melodies and spicy cuisine but is also flexible against any unexpected twists. ¡Vamonos!

• What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Mexico? 
• How does Travel Insurance work for Mexico?
• Do I need Travel Insurance for Mexico? 
• How much does Travel Insurance cost for Mexico? 
• Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan
• What types of medical coverage does AXA Travel Protection plans offer?
• Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to Mexico?

Traveling with pre-existing Medical Conditions? 

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to mexico.

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.  AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind. 

• Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Mexico.

How does Travel Insurance work in Mexico?

Picture this: you're strolling through the lively streets of Oaxaca, immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets and savoring the diverse flavors that Mexico unfolds before you. Suddenly, a wave of discomfort sweeps over you, signaling that the delectable street food might not have agreed with your stomach. As you grapple with feeling unwell, the assurance of AXA Travel Protection comes to the forefront. With AXA by your side, we stand ready to guide you to the nearest medical facility, ensuring you receive the care and assistance needed. Here’s the full list of how travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits

• Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
• Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:  

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures. 

Do I need Travel Insurance for Mexico?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip to Mexico. While Mexico offers incredible experiences, having travel insurance can offer coverage against unforeseen events. Here are a few examples:

Medical Emergencies: Your health is a top priority. If you face a sudden illness or injury in Mexico, travel insurance offers the means to receive prompt and quality medical care.

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.

Flight Delays: Travel disruptions like flight delays can happen. If you miss a connecting flight or incur additional expenses due to delays, travel insurance can help cover the costs.

How much does Travel Insurance cost for Mexico?

In general, travel insurance costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost:  The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc. 
• Age:  Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Mexico will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan 

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the  Silver Plan ,  Gold Plan , and  Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Mexico hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers to consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.

The Platinum Plan  is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage aligned with the Mexico experience. " Cancel for Any Reason " offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the " Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) " offers assistance when you're out exploring the Mexico's stunning landscapes in a rental car.  Additionally, an optional benefit to the Platinum plan is Lost Golf Days. It can offer reimbursement if your tee time is delayed or canceled due to weather or construction.

What types of medical coverage do AXA Travel Protection plans offer?

Axa covers three types of medical expenses:

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation 
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation 

Emergency Medical: Unforeseen incidents that may occur, including unexpected illnesses, allergic reactions, broken bones, burns and more.

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness. 

Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Can help with evacuation when an immediate departure from a destination is necessary due to non-medical-related events, such as civil unrest or natural disasters.

Are there any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to Mexico?

Mexico has dropped all COVID-19 restrictions for travelers from the United States. However, upon entering, Mexico requires all travelers to register and submit a health declaration form. Travelers will receive a QR code at the port of entry. To stay up to date with visit Mexico’s Entry requirements visit: Mexico International Travel Information (state.gov) .

Traveling with preexisting medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.   Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons,

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation.  

Discover our Travel Insurance for CARIBBEAN ISLAND Travel Insurance Colombia  | Travel Insurance Jamaica | Travel Insurance Costa Rica | Travel Insurance Belize |

1. can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight.

You can buy travel insurance even after your flight is booked.

2. When should I buy Travel Insurance for Mexico?

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit.

3. Do Americans need travel insurance in Mexico?

No, travel insurance is not currently required to visit Mexico. But it is recommended.

4. What is needed to visit Mexico from the USA?

If you're visiting Mexico from the USA, all you need is your passport. Your passport needs to be valid at least six months beyond the date of your arrival.

5. What happens if a tourist gets sick in Mexico?

If you become sick in Mexico, travelers with AXA Travel protection can contact the AXA Assistance hotline at  855-327-1442 . Contact information is typically provided within the insurance documentation. Please ensure to read through your policy details and information.

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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Travel Insurance for Mexico – Best Insurance and Cost

Home | Travel | Travel Insurance for Mexico – Best Insurance and Cost

Travel insurance for Mexico is one of the first things you should think about buying when you’re planning a trip to Mexico.

Lots of unexpected things can happen while you’re traveling: you can miss a flight, experience unexpected illness, or even lose your personal belongings. Without travel insurance to Mexico , you would have to buy a new plane ticket yourself, pay all your healthcare fees out of pocket, and replace your lost belongings at your own expense.

On the other hand, having Mexico travel insurance means that when something unforeseen comes up, you’re covered. Instead of having to pay for everything yourself, your insurance company will cover it for you. Also, you should always make sure that you have the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage just in case you need to quarantine or get tested during your trip.

Having travel insurance is not an entry requirement for Mexico, but it’s always a good idea to travel with some kind of travel insurance for Mexico , especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When we traveled to Mexico recently, we used   Heymondo  since it provides extensive coverage for an affordable price. For me, it’s the  best travel insurance for Mexico .

5% OFF your travel insurance

There are also plenty of other great options for travel insurance to Mexico depending on what you’re looking for, so keep reading to find out more about Mexico travel insurance  and enjoy one of the best destinations in Latin America .

Best travel insurance for Mexico

To sum it up, these are the best travel insurance for a Mexico trip :

• Heymondo – the best overall travel insurance for Mexico
• World Nomads – the cheapest travel insurance for Mexico
• IMG – a cheap Mexico travel insurance
• World Trips – an affordable travel health insurance for Mexico
• AIG – reliable insurance for travel to Mexico
• Travelex – a great travel insurance for Mexico

If you’re interested in travel insurance for other trips or countries, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico?

You might be asking yourself, do I need travel insurance for Mexico? The answer is that it’s not an entry requirement to have travel insurance for Mexico, but you really shouldn’t travel without it . You can check our guide Is Mexico open for travel? for more information on Mexico’s entry requirements.

Of course, Mexico travel insurance is always great for covering trip delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies, all of which are common travel mishaps that can be inconvenient and expensive to pay for yourself. Having insurance for travel to Mexico can help you avoid a lot of hassle and give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your insurance has you covered.

Additionally, there are several common situations for tourists in Mexico where it would be particularly advisable to have travel insurance for Mexico :

• You could drink tap water or ice made from tap water and get extremely sick. Tourists are generally advised to avoid all tap water in Mexico. However, sometimes is difficult to avoid if you go to restaurants. If you drink tap water and become ill, the last thing you’ll want to worry about is having to pay your medical bills. Make sure to get insurance for traveling to Mexico so that you know you’re covered.
• Some areas in Mexico are not that safe. You could get pickpocketed or have your purse stolen. Instead of having to deal with the stress of replacing your valuables, purchase good travel insurance for Mexico that will cover any lost or stolen belongings.
• You could contract COVID-19, in which case you will need to cover testing, treatment, and extended accommodation fees if you have to quarantine. Reliable travel insurance for Mexico with COVID-19 coverage will ensure that you don’t have to pay for any COVID- related fees out of pocket.

Cost of Travel Insurance to Mexico

The cost of travel insurance to Mexico can be affected by a variety of factors: your age, your nationality, your state (if you live in the US), the length of your trip, and the cost of your trip. In general, the shorter and less expensive the trip you take, the more likely you’ll get cheap Mexico travel insurance .

However, some insurance policies’ prices, such as Heymondo ’s, are not based on the cost of your trip, so keep this in mind if you want a more stable and affordable price for your travel insurance to Mexico .

How much is travel insurance to Mexico?

To compare the cost of travel insurance to Mexico , we have used the example of a 30-year-old American who lives in Pennsylvania, who is traveling to Mexico for two weeks, and whose trip costs $2,500.

*Price used for example. Price of the travel insurance for Mexico will vary depending on the trip cost selected.

Best Travel Medical Insurance for Mexico

As you can see from the comparison chart above, Heymondo is the best travel insurance for a Mexico trip . Their policy offers the most extensive coverage in every category. Plus, they are the only company that pays travelers’ medical expenses directly instead of having them pay out of pocket and then file a claim. That’s why Heymondo is also the best travel medical insurance for Mexico .

You can even save 5% on Heymondo’s policies with the discount link below.

Before you decide which Mexico travel insurance to buy, keep reading to find out more about each insurance company and their policies’ coverage .

1. Heymondo , the best overall travel insurance for Mexico

Heymondo is by far the best travel insurance for a Mexico trip . Their coverage-to-price ratio is extraordinary since they offer an incredibly high amount of coverage for medical- and travel-related expenses while still being affordable.

Their policies are also the most convenient for health insurance while traveling in Mexico . Unlike most insurance policies, where travelers pay for medical expenses upfront and are only reimbursed after they file a claim, all Heymondo’s policies ensure that you won’t have to pay any medical fees out of your own pocket. Instead, Heymondo will pay the hospital or treatment center for you directly, so you don’t even have to worry about filing a claim.

Additionally, their policies can be customized to include electronic coverage, cruise coverage, and adventure sports coverage, so Heymondo is also the best travel insurance for Cancun, Mexico . To get your Heymondo insurance price, all you need to do is input your country of residence, destination, and length of the trip.

Below is an example of Heymondo Top coverage for a 30-year-old American traveling to Mexico for 14 days whose trip cost $2,500:

• Price : $70.75
• Upfront, out-of-pocket payments from travelers : No
• COVID coverage: Testing/treatment
• Emergency medical expenses : $250,000
• Repatriation : $500,000
• Trip cancellation: $3,500
• Baggage loss: $1,700

We have been using Heymondo as our travel insurance for years and can’t recommend it enough, but you can also check out our Heymondo travel insurance guide to learn more about our experience.

As an added bonus, you can even get a discount on Heymondo insurance just for being our reader .

2. World Nomads, the cheapest travel insurance for Mexico

World Nomads is the option for you if you want the cheapest Mexico travel insurance . Their plans are well-priced and offer a good amount of coverage for medical- and travel-related expenses.

They offer two plans: the cheaper Standard plan and the more expensive and comprehensive Explorer plan. Both plans include adventure sports coverage on top of the usual travel- and medical-related expenses like evacuation, trip delay, and emergency medical fees, so World Nomads is a great choice of Mexico travel insurance for adrenaline junkies.

However, while World Nomads insurance may be slightly cheaper than Heymondo ’s, their coverage amount in all categories is much lower. They also do not cover COVID-19 testing and only cover COVID-19 treatment if you can provide proof of diagnosis and illness from a doctor, so they are not the best option for travel insurance for Mexico with COVID-19 coverage .

On the other hand, like Heymondo, World Nomads doesn’t ask for much information when calculating your insurance price. All you need to do is input your country of residence, destination, length of trip, and age.

Below is an example of World Nomads Standard coverage for a 30-year-old American traveling to Mexico for 14 days whose trip cost $2,500:

• Price : $68.63
• Upfront, out-of-pocket payments from travelers : Yes
• COVID coverage: Treatment
• Emergency medical expenses : $100,000
• Repatriation : $300,000
• Trip cancellation: $2,500
• Baggage loss : $1,000

3. IMG, a cheap Mexico travel insurance

IMG is another fantastic option for cheap travel insurance for Mexico . They offer a wide variety of insurance options for travelers, from travel insurance like iTravelInsured Travel Lite, Travel SE, and Travel LX to medical insurance for travel to Mexico like Patriot International and Patriot Platinum International.

You may decide that you want medical travel insurance for Mexico without coverage for travel-related expenses like trip delay and baggage loss. In that case, IMG offers the cheapest travel medical insurance for Mexico with their Patriot International and Patriot Platinum International plans.

However, keep in mind that you will have to pay your medical expenses out of pocket and then file a claim, unlike Heymondo .

To get your IMG travel insurance to Mexico price, you will need to enter the length of your trip, the coverage area, your age, your gender, your country of residence, your citizenship, your state of residence (if you live in the US), and your trip cost.

Below is an example of IMG iTravelInsured Travel Lite coverage for a 30-year-old American traveling to Mexico for 14 days whose trip cost $2,500:

• Price : $69.00
• Repatriation : $250,000
• Trip cancellation: 100% of $2,500 (trip cost used for example)
• Baggage loss : $750

4. World Trips, an affordable travel health insurance for Mexico

World Trips (formerly known as Tokio Marine) offers relatively affordable insurance for traveling to Mexico . They offer three different types of travel insurance, Atlas Journey Economy (the cheapest), Atlas Journey Preferred, and Atlas Journey Premier (the most expensive), as well as medical-only travel insurance for Mexico .

World Trips is also one of the best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions as long as their plan is purchased within 21 days of the initial trip payment date, so they are a great choice for anyone with a pre-existing condition. They also offer “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage with their Preferred and Premium plans, which is helpful if you think you may have to cancel your trip due to a reason that is not injury, death, illness, or a natural disaster.

In order to get the cost of World Trips’ travel insurance to Mexico , you must input your age, state of residence (if you live in the US), trip dates, trip cost, and date of initial trip payment. Because your insurance price depends on your trip cost, World Trips’ insurance for travel to Mexico will be more expensive if your trip costs more, unlike Heymondo , which doesn’t base Mexico travel insurance prices on trip cost.

Below is an example of World Trips Atlas Journey Economy coverage for a 30-year-old American traveling to Mexico for 14 days whose trip cost $2,500:

• Price : $78.00
• Emergency medical expenses : $25,000

5. AIG tRAVEL gUARD, reliable insurance for travel to Mexico

AIG provides great travel insurance to Mexico from the USA . Their Travel Guard Essential, Preferred, and Deluxe plans are all geared toward American travelers who are visiting Mexico.

AIG Preferred and Deluxe plans can be upgraded to include “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage, and their trip interruption coverage is up to 150% of the insured trip cost. However, their overall coverage-to-price ratio is not the best, since they offer some of the lowest coverage at the most expensive price.

AIG also requires a lot of information in order to obtain your cost of travel insurance to Mexico , so it is not the most convenient travel insurance to Mexico . You must enter your destination, mode of transportation, dates of the trip, state of residence (if you live in the US), date of birth, trip cost, and initial payment date.

Below is an example of AIG Travel Guard Essential coverage for a 30-year-old American traveling to Mexico for 14 days whose trip cost $2,500:

• Price : $116.48
• Emergency medical expenses : $15,000
• Repatriation : $150,000

6. Travelex, a great travel insurance for Mexico

Travelex is another good choice for travel insurance to Mexico from the USA. Like AIG, Travelex’s insurance is designed for Americans who are traveling internationally.

They have two plans: the cheaper Travel Basic Plan and the more expensive Travel Select plan. Besides typical medical- and travel-related coverage, the Basic plan includes a frequent traveler benefit, and the Select plan even offers license fee reimbursement and sporting equipment delay coverage.

On the other hand, Travelex offers the lowest coverage out of all the companies I compared for a price that’s pretty much the same as others that offer higher coverage.

You must enter your destination, US state of residence, trip dates, age, and trip cost to get the price of your Travelex Mexico travel insurance .

Below is an example of Travelex Travel Basic coverage for a 30-year-old American traveling to Mexico for 14 days whose trip cost $2,500:

• Price : $76.00
• Repatriation : $100,000
• Baggage loss: $500

What Travel Insurance Do I Need for Mexico?

It may not be an entry requirement to have travel insurance for Mexico , but you should not travel to Mexico without some kind of Mexico travel health insurance coverage.

Now that I’ve compared all of the different options for travel insurance to Mexico , you can see that Heymondo has the best travel insurance for Mexico  since their policies offer the highest amount of coverage while still being very affordable. Plus, remember that you can get Heymondo insurance at an even more affordable price with our reader discount.

I hope this article helped you learn more about the best travel insurance to Mexico. If you have any questions about Mexico travel insurance , leave a comment below and I’ll happily answer your question!

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ Travel Insurance for Mexico – Best Insurance and Cost ”

Thank you for the valuable insights on Mexican insurance! If you’re seeking a highly reliable insurance agency, I recommend checking out MexInsurance, recognised as the top Mexico auto insurance agency nationwide.

Hi Charles, Thanks for the tip! At the end of the day, I think it’s 100% worth investing in travel insurance for Mexico, so I appreciate the suggestion 🙂

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Travel Insurance for Mexico

Travel Team | Apr 12, 2024

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From delicious food to sandy beaches to historic sites, there’s something for every traveler in Mexico. But before you zip up your suitcase, you’ll want to make sure your trip is protected.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at options for Mexico travel insurance, requirements for traveling to Mexico, and offer destination-specific travel tips so you can have a safe and relaxing experience.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Mexico?

Insurance is not a requirement to visit Mexico; however, it is a smart idea to have! Let’s take a closer look at the reasons why you should buy insurance before your trip to Mexico.

Should You Buy Travel Insurance for Mexico?

It’s always a smart decision to buy travel insurance before your trip, especially if you’re traveling to another country like Mexico. It’s impossible to anticipate every potential mishap. The coverage you purchase can protect you — your money, your health, your belongings — when the unexpected happens.

Explain why purchasing travel insurance is recommended, even if the country readers are visiting does not require it for entry.

Mexico Travel Insurance Coverage Options

Seven Corners offers a variety of plans that meet most travelers’ needs. Coverage options can differ depending on the plan you choose, the specific benefits and add-ons you select, and your state or country of residency. Below are some travel insurance benefits found in many of Seven Corners plans to help protect you during your trip to Mexico.

Trip Cancellation

Seven Corners could reimburse you for the prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses you insured if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. Covered reasons can include triggers such as an illness that prevents you from traveling or inclement weather, like a hurricane, that makes it impossible to get to your destination.

For the flexibility to cancel your trip for any reason, not just those listed in your plan document, consider adding optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage .

Trip Interruption

An interruption often means you ended your trip and returned home early, but it can also include needing to start your trip late. If you need to interrupt your trip for a covered reason, you could be reimbursed for unused prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses. This benefit also covers the expense of additional transportation.

For more flexibility to interrupt your trip and still be reimbursed, consider adding optional Interruption for Any Reason (IFAR) coverage . This allows you to interrupt your trip for any reason, not just the covered reasons listed in your plan document. Examples include feeling unsafe at your destination and deciding to return home or move to your next destination early or simply changing your mind about travel so you end your trip early.

This benefit can cover expenses resulting from a delay, whether you’re headed to Mexico or coming home or even if you’re delayed in the middle of your trip. To be reimbursed, the delay must be caused by a covered reason, such as a flight delay lasting the required amount of time.

Lost or Delayed Baggage

Seven Corners will reimburse you to replace necessary personal belongings if your baggage is delayed by your airline or other common carrier on your way to Mexico. Necessary personal items include things like clothing or toiletries so that you can continue on your trip.

If your baggage is lost, delayed, damaged, or stolen during your trip, your travel insurance could pay to replace or repair the insured items

For both lost and delayed baggage, it’s important to remember that some items such as laptops and jewelry may not be covered, and your luggage must be delayed for the length of time stated in the plan before you are eligible for reimbursement.

• Travel Medical

Travel medical insurance can cover expenses for medical treatment if you get sick or hurt during your trip. This is particularly important for travelers whose domestic health insurance does not provide coverage overseas.

Seven Corners Trip Protection plans provide coverage for Emergency Accident and Sickness as well as Emergency Dental expenses. We also provide a variety of travel medical plans with robust medical coverage for both U.S. and international residents.

Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

If you get sick or hurt during your trip to Mexico and adequate care is not available, Seven Corners will arrange an emergency medical evacuation to a medical facility that can provide treatment if it is deemed medically necessary. We will also arrange your return home so you can continue recovering.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

This Seven Corners benefit provides coverage for loss of life or limb resulting from an injury caused by an accident during your trip to Mexico.

What Is The Best Travel Insurance for Mexico?

Seven Corners Trip Protection is our most popular plan for U.S. residents traveling to Mexico. With this plan, you’ll find coverage to protect your trip expenses, belongings, and emergency medical expenses.

Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance provides great levels of confidence for travelers headed to Mexico whether you’re a U.S. or non-U.S. resident. These plans offer robust coverage for medical expenses if you get sick or hurt during your trip, so you can get the care you need without having to worry about how you’ll pay for it.

Finding the best travel insurance for your unique trip to Mexico is easy with our interactive guide. Answering a few simple questions will show you the best options for you and your trip. Plus, there’s no commitment or hassle when you get a quick quote. You can also contact our licensed agents for additional support, making sure you choose the best travel insurance for a Mexico vacation.

How Much Does Travel Insurance to Mexico Cost?

The cost of travel insurance varies depending on the plan you choose as well as a number of other factors. Trip protection plans generally cost 4-10% of your total insurable trip cost. See how to calculate your trip cost and make sure you have the right amount of coverage.

The cost of a travel medical plan is based on:

• The plan you choose
• The length of your trip

Customizable selections such as medical maximum, deductible, and other add-ons

Get a quick quote with no commitment when you answer a few simple questions about your trip to Mexico and what kind of coverage you need.

Travel Requirements for Mexico

When planning any trip, it’s important to consider what travel documents your destination country requires, as well as any public health requirements. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need when traveling to Mexico.

Visa Requirements for Mexico

Visas are not required for permanent residents of the United States traveling to Mexico. Visas are also not required for Mexico if you already have a valid visa for the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, or any country that makes up the Schengen Area.

There are many countries whose residents are exempt from needing a visa to travel to Mexico. Check out the full list here .

Documents and Forms

While you may not need a visa to travel to Mexico, there are a number of other documents you’ll want to be sure to add to your carry-on. These documents include:

• A valid passport that has at least six months of validity.
• A completed Multi Migratory Form . Travel tip- this form can be completed at the airport, but you can save time by filling it out and printing it in advance!
• Documentation of why you’re traveling to Mexico. This can include a hotel reservation, a trip itinerary, a letter of admission from an academic institution, or a letter from your employer that you’re traveling for work. View more examples here .

Public Health Requirements

As of November 24, 2023, there are no COVID-19 restrictions in place when traveling to Mexico.

You won’t need to provide a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination to enter the country. However, the Centers for Disease Control recommends getting up to date on COVID-19 vaccines before traveling and wearing a mask in crowded places on your trip.

Travel Information & Safety Tips for Mexico

Curious about the weather at your destination? Want more info on transportation? Check out these travel and safety tips for a deeper dive into what you can expect on your trip to Mexico.

Is Mexico safe to visit?

Major cities and resort areas are generally the safest places to visit. These areas are well-regulated with first responders close by to help in instances of injury.

In some Mexican states, there are high amounts of crime and kidnapping. This Mexico Travel Advisory can tell you if the area you’re considering visiting has an especially high amount of crime.

It’s important to be aware of common scams that target tourists in Mexico so you can avoid them. Card-skimming is prevalent throughout Mexico, so try to pay with cash when possible. When you do withdraw cash, use well-lit ATMs in populated areas. Be careful when getting in a taxi, as there are a growing number of fake taxi drivers. If possible, ask your hotel to book you an authorized taxi. When getting in the car, ensure the driver is licensed and that their face matches the photo on the license.

If you’re a United States citizen traveling to Mexico, you can enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) as an additional safety precaution. Through the program, you’ll get up-to-date information about safety precautions in your destination country. It will also help the U.S. Embassy and your friends and family contact you in case of an emergency.

What languages are spoken in Mexico?

Spanish is the primary language of Mexico, spoken by about 94% of the population.

English is not prominently spoken throughout Mexico. However, in tourist areas such as Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel, and others, many locals have learned to speak English.

What currency is used in Mexico?

The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the currency used in Mexico. As of November 24, 2023, the exchange rate between United States dollars and Mexican pesos is 1 dollar = 17.11 pesos.

For the most current currency rate, check out this currency exchange tool .

What is the weather like in Mexico?

Mexico is a vast country, stretching over 750,000 square miles. As such, the weather varies by region. Throughout Mexico, there is a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season runs from May through November, and the dry season from December through April.

Gulf Coast: Weather in the Gulf Coast is hot and humid, with lots of rain in the summer months. July is the hottest and wettest month of the year. The annual average temperature is 77 degrees.

Southern Mexico: The southern regions of Mexico which include Oaxaca and Chiapas tend to get the most rain. This weather in the valleys and coastal plains can be exceptionally hot, while the weather in cities of higher altitudes is cooler.

Yucatan Peninsula: The Yucatan Peninsula is a popular cruise destination, with its port city of Cancun. Temperatures stay warm and consistent throughout the year with an average of 78 degrees annually.

Northern Mexico: The weather in northern Mexico tends to be more arid and less humid than other parts of the country. This area in Mexico is characterized by dry, sweltering days and cooler nights. The temperature here varies throughout the year with highs over 90 degrees in August and lows in the upper 40s in January.

Central Mexico: It feels like springtime in Central Mexico for most of the year, with warm days and slightly cooler nights. The highs in the warmest months are in the upper 80s and dip to the low 40s in the cooler months.

Pacific Coast Region: The Pacific Coast region is home to popular tourist destinations like Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta. This region stays toasty throughout the year, with high temperatures of 90 degrees and lows around 70.

Food and Water Safety in Mexico

The tap water in Mexico is generally unsafe to drink throughout the country. It’s recommended to buy purified bottled water during your stay. Bottled water is widely available for sale in stores and by street vendors, so it shouldn’t be hard to find. You should also use purified water for brushing your teeth. Travel tip: Bring your own refillable water bottle and purchase larger purified water jugs to fill it throughout your trip.

When it comes to produce, it’s best to always disinfect the fruits and vegetables you buy. You can buy produce disinfectant or make your own solution with a mix of white vinegar and purified water.

Transportation

Common ways to get around Mexico include renting a car, ordering a taxi, or taking public transit.

Larger cities like Mexico City have a Metro system to help you get around. Mexico City’s metro even has women-only wagons to help reduce the prevalence of sexual harassment . But in smaller cities and towns, buses will be the primary form of public transportation.

Train travel is currently limited, but is set to take off in Mexico in the coming decades. The country is planning to launch 11 new tourist train routes by 2050, with the first launching in 2023.

Do I need a power adapter for my electronics?

When traveling to Mexico from the United States, you will not need a power adapter for your electronics. Mexico uses type A and type B power plug sockets. The standard voltage is 127 V and the frequency is 60 Hz.

U.S. Embassy and Consulate Information for Mexico

Before traveling to Mexico, it’s important to know the location of the nearest embassy or consulate to where you’re staying. Here’s a full list of Embassy and Consulate locations.

U.S. Embassy in Mexico City:

Paseo de la Reforma 305

Colonia Cuauhtemoc

06500 Mexico, CDMX

U.S. Consulate in Ciudad Juárez:

Paseo de la Victoria #3650

Fracc. Partido Senecú

Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico C.P. 32543

U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara:

Progreso 175

Col. Americana

Codigo Postal 44160

Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

U.S. Consulate in Hermosillo:

141 Monterey Street

Col. Esqueda, C.P. 83000

Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico

U.S. Consulate in Matamoros:

Calle Constitución No. 1

Colonia Jardín

Matamoros, Tamaulipas 87330

U.S. Consulate in Merida:

Calle 60 No. 338-K x 29 y 31

Col. Alcala Martin Merida, Yucatan, Mexico 97050

U.S. Consulate in Monterrey:

Ave. Alfonso Reyes #150

Col. Valle del Poniente

Santa Catarina, Nuevo León

México 66196

U.S. Consulate in Nogales:

Calle San José s/n

Fraccionamiento los Alamos

C. P. 84065 Nogales, Sonora

U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo:

Paseo Colon 1901

Colonia Madero

Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas 88260

U.S. Consulate in Tijuana:

Paseo de las Culturas s/n

Mesa de Otay

Delegación Centenario C.P. 22425

Tijuana, Baja California

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• Destinations

Mexico Travel Insurance Requirements

Last updated: 03/07/2024

Do You Need Travel Insurance to Visit Mexico?

Travel insurance is not currently required for U.S. citizens to enter Mexico. However, many travelers elect to purchase travel insurance for both peace of mind and financial protection before heading south of the border.

A good travel insurance plan can provide reimbursement if your trip is impacted by unexpected travel disruptions. The most common reason why Americans insure their Mexico vacations is for coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and delays.

How Much Is Mexico Travel Insurance?

The cost of Mexico travel insurance coverage is primarily determined by five key factors; your total trip cost, the age of travelers on the policy, your trip length, the type of policy, and the total coverage amounts.

On average, Squaremouth customers spend $150 – $200 on travel insurance for Mexico trips.

Finding the Best Policy For Your Mexico Trip

With major cities, nature retreats, and beach escapes on offer, a trip to Mexico can differ dramatically from one traveler to the next. The best travel insurance policy will depend on your specific itinerary.

With that said, we recommend the following travel insurance benefits to anyone visiting Mexico, regardless of your travel plans:

• Trip Cancellation : Provides reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason before you depart. Common reasons include an unexpected injury, illness, or death to a family member.
• Emergency Medical : Covers the cost of unexpected medical expenses while traveling, such as hospital bills, ambulance rides, and x-rays, among others. We recommend at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical insurance for your trip.
• Medical Evacuation : Covers the cost of emergency transportation to another medical facility or back to your home country if a treating physician deems it necessary for more adequate treatment. We recommend at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation insurance for your trip.
• Travel Delay : Can reimburse the cost of food, accommodations, and transportation if a flight is significantly delayed. The best trip delay plans will apply coverage after a delay exceeds three hours.
• Baggage & Personal Item Loss : Offers reimbursement if your baggage is delayed, lost, or stolen at any point during your trip.
• Rental Car Damage : If you plan on renting a car in Mexico, some travel insurance providers offer plans that cover damage to the vehicle.
• Sports & Activities : Extends key benefits to travelers planning on partaking in activities that are typically excluded from coverage, such as scuba diving , surfing, and mountaineering.

Click here to start a Mexico travel insurance quote.

Other Mexican Entry Requirements to Consider

A valid passport is required to enter Mexico. Travelers planning on staying longer than 180 days will also need to present a tourist visa upon entry.

Mexico Safety & Travel Tips

Mexico is one of the most popular tourist destinations among Americans. However, it’s important to exercise caution and be prepared for any potential dangerous situations that can arise.

Crime in Mexico

According to the U.S. Department of State , areas of Mexico have a high risk of violent crime. Travel advisories vary depending on the region of the country you are visiting. Travelers should exercise caution, especially in the night time where crime is more likely.

Even in areas that are friendly to tourists, it’s important to keep money and other valuables out of plane sight. Keep emergency contact numbers saved on your phone, and be sure to notify friends and family of your travel plans.

Food & Water in Mexico

Avoid drinking tap water while in Mexico unless the hotel or restaurant uses a purified water source. The same goes for ice cubes. To be safe, always elect for bottled water when possible.

Mexican food is delicious and safe to eat when prepared correctly. To be on the safe side, steer clear of leafy greens, fruits, and other produce that may have been cleaned under tap water.

Mexico Weather & Natural Disaster Concerns

Hurricanes and earthquakes are among the most common natural disasters that occur throughout Mexico. Hurricanes are more likely on the Gulf Coast, while earthquakes typically occur on the Pacific Coast.

Before leaving for your trip, be sure to check the forecast and news for any major weather updates. Many comprehensive travel insurance plans include coverage for natural disasters and other extreme weather events that may occur before or during your trip.

FAQs For Americans Planning a Mexico Trip

When is the best time to visit mexico.

The most popular time to visit Mexico is during the country’s dry season, which typically spans from December to April. During this time of the year, rain is minimal and temperatures are comfortable.

While temperatures may be high during the summer, there are typically less crowds during this time of year and it is possible to find good deals on hotels and airfare.

What Are the Most Popular Cities in Mexico for Tourists?

Whether you’re in the mood for beach, nightlife, nature, or cities, Mexico has something to offer every traveler. From the Yucatan Peninsula to Baja California, below are 10 of the most popular Mexican destinations.

• Cabo San Lucas
• Mexico City
• Playa del Carmen
• San Miguel de Allende
• Puerto Vallarta
• Guadalajara

What Language Do They Speak in Mexico?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Mexico. Dialects of the​​ Aztecs, Mayans, and other tribes can also be heard throughout the country.

It is beneficial for you or your travel companions to speak the local language. With that said, many tourist regions of the country are accommodating to English speakers.

Do You Tip in Mexico?

Much like here in the USA , tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico. This applies to servers, tour guides, bartenders, and other service and tourism industry workers. As a rule of thumb, it’s recommended to tip between 10-20% for a job well done.

Important Contact Information & Resources for U.S. Citizens Visiting Mexico

U.S. Embassy Mexico City Paseo de la Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtemoc 06500 Ciudad de Mexico Mexico

800-681-9374 Embassy Website

U.S. Department of State Mexico Travel Advisory

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Mexico Travel Insurance: Plans, Coverage & Cost (2024)

While you aren’t legally required to have travel insurance as a visitor to Mexico, it can still be valuable protection for expensive nonrefundable trip costs.

Sarah Horvath is one of the home service industry’s most accomplished writers. Her specialties include writing about home warranties, insurance, home improvement and household finances. You can find her writing published through distributors like HouseMethod, Architectural Digest, Good Housekeeping and more. When not writing, she enjoys spending time in her home in Orlando with her fiance and parrot.

Roxanne Downer has more than 15 years as a news, finance and lifestyle writer and editor. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, she has previously worked at Deutsche Bank, BNY Mellon, Financial Week and MSN Money.

When planning a trip, whether for business or leisure, travel insurance can be a wise option to keep you covered financially if there are changes to your travel plans. Quality travel insurance can help you recoup some or all of your Mexico trip costs if you need to cancel.

Travel insurance plans are a safety net for flight cancellations or travel delays on the part of the trip provider. Most typical travel insurance coverage includes lost baggage, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation insurance and even reimbursement if you have to cancel travel plans due to testing positive for COVID-19 before departure.

Learn more about the pros and cons of buying travel insurance and some travel tips for your trip to Mexico.

Compare Mexico Travel Insurance Companies

Use the table below to the average plan costs and coverages of the top companies that provider travel insurance for a trip to Mexico:

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Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance for Mexico?

There are currently no requirements that require U.S. citizens to carry medical or travel insurance as a condition of entering the country. However, since Mexico is still considered a developing country, many Americans purchase travel insurance before going. 

There are multiple types of travel insurance, and the best travel insurance for Mexico will vary depending on your personal preferences. Frequent business travelers naturally need different coverage than extreme sports enthusiasts. The following are a few of the most common travel insurance coverages offered by travel insurance companies.

Cancel for Any Reason Coverage

When you purchase a standard travel insurance policy , you agree to a list of circumstances for which you can use your insurance coverage. Some commonly covered circumstances include a family member’s death, your traveling companion’s death or an unanticipated natural disaster. 

With a cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance upgrade, you can claim reimbursement for any reason and are not limited to the circumstances found on your insurance policy. These policies can benefit anyone with a reason why they believe they may need to cancel a trip. For example, you can use your CFAR policy if you have been monitoring the COVID-19 situation in Mexico City and judge the risk as too high after purchasing your resort vacation.

CFAR travel insurance is supplemental and isn’t available as a stand-alone insurance option. Your CFAR reimbursement will not cover your whole trip. Your travel insurance contract will indicate how much you’ll get back and any provider exclusions.

TIP: You have a limited number of days (10 to 21 days, depending on the policy) after purchasing a nonrefundable trip to add CFAR coverage.

Gear Theft Protection

If you bring expensive equipment, such as sports gear, a professional-grade camera, a laptop or specialized medical equipment, you might want travel insurance to protect them. Your travel insurance will cover the loss up to a predetermined amount if your electronics are lost, stolen or damaged by an airline or tour operator.

TIP: Homeowners insurance and renters insurance policies often cover identity theft and personal property that’s lost or stolen outside your home, even if you’re not in your home country when it happens. So, check your existing policies to see if you’re already covered. 

Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Illness and injury are among the most unwelcome occurrences during international travel. Your employer-provided health plan may have limited or no coverage in Mexico, and Medicare doesn’t cover health care outside the United States, except in rare cases.

Travel health insurance pays for emergency medical expenses during a trip. These expenses include the following:

• Ambulance service
• Chipped tooth or other dental emergencies
• Hospital fees
• Operating room charges
• Treatments and prescriptions 
• X-rays, lab tests and anesthesia

Many travel insurance plans also include emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. If you have an emergency and can’t receive local medical care, emergency medical insurance will usually cover the cost of an evacuation to an appropriate facility or back to the United States.

Most travel health insurance plans do not cover medical tourism. Check with your provider to find a plan that covers pre-existing conditions.

TIP: Many Mexican medical facilities only accept cash , so ensure you receive a written expense report or bill before leaving the facility.

Rental Car Protection

Most noncommercial automobile insurance policies do not cover accidents or collisions that occur while you’re driving abroad. Some comprehensive travel insurance plans have an add-on option for rental car collision coverage if you damage the vehicle in an accident. 

This benefit doesn’t cover the personal property inside the car. It also doesn’t cover damage to another vehicle or medical care if you’re hurt in an accident involving the rental car. Your emergency medical coverage should cover this.

TIP: Your credit card company may already include coverage for damaged rental cars.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses should you cancel your trip before departure for an unforeseen covered reason. The unforeseen circumstances potentially covered by trip cancellation insurance may include emergency surgery, the death of a family member or traveling companion, and weather conditions that make leaving home or your destination dangerous.

How Much Does Mexico Travel Insurance Cost?

The price you’ll pay for travel insurance may vary depending on factors such as the following: 

• Age of the travelers in your party
• Destination country and location
• Total trip price, including all nonrefundable excursions 

We requested quotes from ten travel insurance companies for their most affordable plan for a trip to Mexico. The below quotes are for a 30-year-old traveler from Florida, traveling to Mexico for ten days in September 2024, with a total trip cost of $4,000. Policies include coverage for cancellations, interruptions, delays, medical care and evacuation.

These quotes were collected in April 2024 for a trip in September 2024.

Mexico Safety Tips

According to the Mexican Embassy, U.S. citizens are not required to present negative COVID tests to enter the country, effective June 2022 . If you test positive for COVID-19 ahead of your trip, many travel insurance providers allow you to cancel your trip up to 48 hours before your departure and recover most or all of your trip costs. 

Crime and Safety

According to the U.S. Department of State , there have been rising instances of pickpocketing, petty theft, and violent crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery in some areas of Mexico, including Mexico City, Juarez, Tijuana and interior provinces and territories. These are usually less of a concern in well-known tourist destinations like Cancun, Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula. However, it’s good to be aware of your surroundings and protect yourself by being vigilant and going nowhere unaccompanied.

Review the United States’ list of Mexican state summaries and restrict travel plans to safe areas. 

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Cancun, Tulum and many other coastal cities are hot spots for relaxing on the beach, exploring in a Jeep and snorkeling or scuba diving. It’s an excellent idea to have travel insurance if you intend to participate in any excursions, such as scuba diving or rock climbing, as these can be expensive. Restrict your travel to legitimate vendors and stay in areas approved for tourism.

Is Travel Insurance for a Mexico Vacation Worth It?

Though you are not legally required to have travel insurance when you vacation to Mexico, it can offer you peace of mind. If you’re concerned about the financial toll you’ll incur if you must cancel your trip in the event of an emergency, consider a trip interruption and cancellation policy. 

While ACA-compliant health insurance plans are required to cover the cost of domestic emergency medical services, they do not guarantee coverage abroad. Also, remember that Mexico does not have as robust a medical infrastructure as the United States. If you have a chronic medical condition that requires regular care, consider a travel insurance policy with emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mexico Travel Insurance

Do you need traveler’s insurance in mexico.

The federal government of Mexico does not currently require that citizens of the United States hold a travel insurance policy as a condition of entering the country. However, you may choose to buy a policy to protect your trip costs or help in the event of an emergency. 

Will my travel insurance cover my flight?

Most travel insurance policies will cover the cost of your flight if your ticket is nonrefundable and your policy includes trip cancellation coverage. You must also have a qualifying reason for cancellation unless you opt for CFAR insurance. 

Will my health insurance cover me in Mexico?

If you have an ACA-compliant health insurance plan, your insurance provider is only required to cover you in the event of an emergency. If you have a short-term health insurance plan or a health insurance plan alternative, you likely will have no coverage abroad. 

Why is Mexico travel insurance so expensive?

Mexico travel insurance can be expensive if your trip has a high cost or if you’re older, as these factors make it more likely that the insurance company will need to pay out a claim. Tsunami and hurricane season can also cause a spike in prices for vacations to Mexico. 

Other Insurance Resources From MarketWatch Guides 

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Travel Insurance for Cancun

No trip to cancun is complete without travel insurance.

Once upon a time Cancun was just a small fishing town. Fast forward 50 years and it’s one of Mexico’s most popular destinations, best known for its white sandy beaches, Mayan ruins and energetic nightlife. The city has two distinct areas with El Centro offering a taste of traditional Mexican life, and Zone Hotelera (or the Hotel Zone) bringing a modern touch with shopping malls, nightclubs and yes, you guessed it… hotels.  

If you’re young at heart visit in March to experience Spring Break and feel the electricity flow through the clubs and on the beaches. March and December are two of the most popular months to visit Cancun, so if your trip coincides with Spring Break or Christmas, we advise you to book in advance and be prepared for large crowds. Perhaps the best time to visit this breath-taking city is between December and April, where you can expect little rain and temperatures between 75-90 degrees.  

Make the most of your Mexican adventure

Five of the best things to discover in Cancun. Quick Links

Life’s a Beach

Cancun is well-known for its white sandy beaches. Some of the best beaches on offer are within walking distance of the hotel zone or a single bus ride away. Make sure you discover the serene blue waters and soft white shores of Playa Tortugas, Playa Chacmool, Playa Delfines, and Playa Gaviota Azul. For an extra dose of tranquillity venture to the sun-kissed shores at sunrise.

Discover Mystical Cenotes

Explore an unesco world heritage site, take to the water, let’s taco food.

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Travel Insurance For Your Trip To Cancun & The Mexican Caribbean

The Cancun Sun has partnered with HeyMondo to bring our readers the best travel insurance. Our readers enjoy an automatic 5% discount on top of the already low prices they offer. Get Your Travel Insurance Quote Now or read on for more information.

The travel insurance below covers all of Mexico including the tourism hotspots of Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. We also included an option for those over the age of 69.

At a glance: HeyMondo offers  very impressive coverage amounts for Mexico , has very customizable plans to fit each traveler up to 69, and doesn’t have a deductible. Great for moderate to luxury travelers, and those who love extra peace of mind.

✓  Good for Americans, Canadians, and worldwide travelers. HeyMondo  is a very flexible and customizable option for those who need travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage. They have 3 different tiers of plans; ‘ Single Trip’ , ‘Annual Multi-Trip’,  and ‘Long Stay’  that cover medical assistance and expenses (which includes infection by Covid-19). They also offer a ‘ Cancellation Only’  policy .

Types of HeyMondo Coverage: 

You can get up to $10,000,000 medical coverage, $7,000 trip interruption/cancellation coverage, $2,500 for baggage and lots more. HeyMondo also has different tiers of trips you can choose from.

Single Trip:  Travel insurance for your upcoming trip (medical expenses, repatriation, luggage, transports delays, etc.). Cancellation and extreme sports are optional.

Multiple Trips In One Year:  With Heymondo’s annual travel insurance you have all the trips you take in a 12-month period covered up to a duration of 120 days each. Estimated rate: $173 USD.

Cancellation Only Coverage:  Reimbursement of the pre-paid non-refundable transport and accommodation expenses of the trip in case you cannot travel. you have selected your type of coverage you will be able to customize your travel insurance. HeyMondo lets you easily customize coverage to help you save money or give you extra coverage where you need it.  (example: covering shiny new electronics like laptops).

HeyMondo Premium also covers some bonus things that are very relevant in a covid-era travel world, like:  medical care  (including covid care)  on-board a cruise ship , and  hotel quarantine accommodation insurance  (Extra lodging expenses due to medical quarantine are covered when testing positive and prescribed by a doctor.

Even expensive  PCR tests  when they are medically prescribed. Another thing we like about HeyMondo’s coverage is the handy app it comes with that allows you to  chat with a doctor 24/7  when you have coverage.  Small perks like that give travelers piece of mind . HeyMondo even covers the cancelation of your trip if you test positive before your vacation.

If you want to read up more on coverage options and prices, go to the  HeyMondo Quote Page  to learn more.

InsureMyTrip – For Seniors

✓  Good for  senior  Americans, Canadians, and all other nationalities who need  coverage over 69 years old. InsureMyTrip  is great for travelers from all countries, especially seniors over 69 who can’t find coverage with other companies. InsureMyTrip has all the normal travel insurance coverages you would expect, plus:

• Cancellation due to diagnosed illness before traveling
• Emergency medical care if you become ill from covid-19 while traveling
• Accommodation coverage if quarantined at your destination
• An optional ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ add on, which is very handy in times of Omicron.

Get a Quote With: Insure My Trip

Cancun   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Jonathan Ross | Getty Images

Why Go To Cancun

Cancún is nothing if not resilient. Consider the debilitating effects Hurricane Wilma had on the region in 2005 – drowned shores, destroyed storefronts and capsized boats. But now, this skinny "7"-shaped barrier island in southeastern Mexico is once again a go-to spot for beaches, golfing and nightlife. Cancún also remains one of the most affordable vacation destinations in the Western Hemisphere, especially if you book a cruise . 

So what's there to do here? Cancún's beaches are spectacular spots to try some Jet Skiing and parasailing. If you want to explore beyond Cancun, the city's top guided tours offer daytrips to idyllic spots like Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. And there's also a host of after-hours activities; be sure to check out the acrobatic dance performances at the  Coco Bongo Cancún . This area is also close to one of the most recognizable sites of Mexico – don't miss out on the chance to behold  Chichén Itzá , a large Mayan archaeological site that is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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• # 1 in Best Spring Break Destinations
• # 4 in Best Cheap Destination Wedding Locations
• # 6 in Best Cheap Mexico Vacations

See All 6 Rankings

Best of Cancun

Best hotels in cancun.

• # 1 in Waldorf Astoria Cancun
• # 2 in Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun
• # 3 in Atelier Playa Mujeres - All Inclusive

Best Things to Do in Cancun

• # 1 in Chichén Itzá
• # 2 in Isla Mujeres
• # 3 in Playa Tortugas

Popular Tours

Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

(17693 reviews)

from $ 69.00

Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting

(1058 reviews)

Adults only Hip Hop Sessions Boat Party Cancun

(950 reviews)

from $ 105.00

Cancun Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Cancún is from December to April during the peak season. Even though the crowds are heavier, you'll experience near-perfect weather and find some of the cheapest flight and room rates for a winter getaway at the beach. Just try to avoid traveling from mid-March to early April – that's when spring breakers descend on the Yucatán's shores. There are also significant discounts in late spring, summer and fall, but Cancún summers are sweltering and the fall months are prone to storms.

Weather in Cancun

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Don't stop to chitchat Cancún is crawling with timeshare representatives. They'll try to grab your attention in the airport, in the hotel lobbies and around the shopping areas. If you're not interested, give a polite but firm, "No, thank you," and keep moving.

Exchange your dollars for pesos While most businesses accept U.S. dollars and credit cards, you will want to have some pesos in your pocket if you're planning to ride the bus or shop at the local markets.

Plan a daytrip Quick trips to neighboring resort cities like Tulum or Playa del Carmen are easy thanks to the variety of organized tours .

How to Save Money in Cancun

Use the buses  They're reliable and abundant, and they cost less than a dollar to ride. 

Go all-inclusive  Cancún is heavily populated with all-inclusive resorts . Some of the best packages include all your meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, gym access and even gratuity.

Avoid overpriced souvenirs Vendors will be hawking souvenirs along the beaches and outside historical sites. If you don't want to overpay, politely decline and purchase your mementos elsewhere.

Culture & Customs

Cancún's popularity with college-age travelers lends to a more casual dress code, even in restaurants. You should cover up your swimsuit when away from the pool or beach, but you will find many people walking along the Boulevard Kukulcán in beach-type attire. Unlike other destinations, Cancún's nighttime establishments welcome a more relaxed atmosphere and appearance. 

The official language here is Spanish, but because Cancún is such a popular tourist spot for English speakers, you should have no trouble finding someone who speaks English, especially within the tourism and hospitality industries.

Cancún's official currency is the Mexican peso. Since the Mexican peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the  current exchange rate  is before you go. American dollars are, however, widely accepted in Cancún.

What to Eat

Cancún has almost as many restaurants as  hotels , so travelers should have no problem finding some tasty eats. If you booked an all-inclusive, your meals and drinks will most likely be bundled in the room rate, leaving you little motivation to eat off your resort grounds. But if you tire of the endless buffet, you'll find a bevy of restaurants worth sampling. 

If it's seafood you're after, you can't go wrong with a lobster meal at Lorenzillo's or the surf and turf at Puerto Madero – both regarded as excellent spots for a special occasion meal. Diners and critics are equally impressed with the "techno-emotional" cuisine offered at Benazuza , an adults-only restaurant serving small, colorful plates in The Pyramid at Grand Oasis hotel. For a splurge-worthy meal the whole family will enjoy, locals rave about Bovino's Churrascaria , a Brazilian steakhouse in downtown Cancun. If it's just you and your sweetheart and you're in the mood for a romantic atmosphere, locals and visitors recommend the rustic La Fonda del Zancudo for traditional Mexican or La Habichuela Centro for a menu Mexican-Caribbean fusion plates. 

For a more casual dining experience, make your way to Café Antoinette (for breakfast), Marakamé Café (for brunch) or El Fish Fritanga (for lunch).

Cancún has largely avoided the drug violence that has afflicted much of Mexico. But while crime against tourists is especially low, the  U.S. State Department advises constant vigilance. Your most important safety concern in Cancún is likely to be in the water. Beware of rough surf and only swim when supervised by a lifeguard. Green beach flags signify safe waters while yellow and red flags advise increasing caution. If you see a black flag, swimming is prohibited. Drinking water can also present potential health concerns. Water in the Hotel Zone (especially at your resort) is generally safe to drink in all forms since it has been purified. Allay any concerns by calling your resort ahead of your trip to ensure the hotel uses a water purification system (most do). The farther you venture outside the Hotel Zone, the more cautious you should be about the drinking water. If you're apprehensive, stick to bottled water to avoid an upset stomach from contaminated water.

Getting Around Cancun

The best way to get around Cancún is the bus, which stops frequently along Boulevard Kukulcán and within the downtown area. One-way fares are a steal at 12 Mexican pesos (or around 60 cents), making a ride in a Cancún taxi seem exorbitant. However, you  should   splurge for a cab to get to and from the Cancún International Airport (CUN), located less than 15 miles from the Hotel Zone and 10 miles from downtown. In fact, you can book your taxi online and save by making advance reservations. There are car rental kiosks in the airport, but driving yourself isn't recommended – the area's narrow roads and speedy traffic patterns can be intimidating.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need a passport to visit Mexico, plus a tourism card (or FMM) that can be issued at any Mexican consulate, border-crossing point, Mexican tourism office or directly from your airline. FMMs are usually issued free of charge upon arrival (and if not, the price is absorbed into the cost of your plane ticket). Be sure to hold onto this card for the duration of your trip, as you will need to present it upon departing the country. It's also a good idea to leave your passport and FMM in a secure location and carry a photocopy of both documents with you at all times. For additional information, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

The pyramid-like El Castillo at  Chichén Itzá was once used by Mayans as a temple to the god Kukulkan. 

Explore More of Cancun

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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# 3 in  Best Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023

Playa del Carmen

# 5 in  Best Inexpensive Spring Break Destinations

# 1 in  Best Cheap Couples Getaways for 2024

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International Travel Insurance for Cancun

by Gabriel Lorenzi

Find all about International Travel Insurance for Cancun. Travel insurance is essential for anyone traveling anywhere in the world, as it includes various services, such as medical assistance, life insurance and even reimbursement in case of lost luggage. And besides giving all the tips on the subject, we will show you where to hire the best insurance at the best price. It is a place that sells insurance much cheaper and you will save a lot.

After reading this article, check out our tips about how to save a lot of money on your trip to Cancun . It is the most accessed article on our blog and will help you a lot with all the trip planning. There are several unmissable tips that will save you A LOT of cash and set up your entire trip to Cancun.

About International Travel Insurance

With an International Travel Insurance you can travel to Cancun or any other city in Mexico with much more tranquility and security. Among the services it provides to tourists, some are:

• Health care
• Life insurance
• Flight cancellations
• Travel assistance
• Legal assistance
• Refund in case of lost luggage or theft

1) Price of a good International Travel Insurance

International Travel Insurance to Cancun is very cheap and depends on the number of days you travel. And they still provide you all the international coverage if a problem arises.

In Mexico and elsewhere in the world, an emergency medical consultation in hospitals and dentists is very expensive. It is bad enough to be sick in your country of origin, that you know everything, do you imagine that something unexpected happened in a totally unknown place? For this reason, Travel Insurance covers medical consultations.

International Travel Insurance is done by region, so if you go to Cancun, Mexico, Canada and the United States, you will be covered with a single insurance in any country.

2) Where to take out travel insurance at the lowest price?

An excellent tip for finding great travel insurance and at the best price for Cancun or anywhere else in the world, is to use this Travel Insurance Comparator , which is incredible and does a thorough search for the main and largest insurance companies in Cancun and the world, and you can still choose the one you like best.

Just enter the destination and the number of days you will be staying abroad. You will find incredible prices and reliable insurance. After researching, you can hire in less than 5 minutes on the Internet and already receive your policy by email. It is the place that we always find the cheapest prices.

The companies we have already hired, which are market leaders and have the best prices are:

• My Travel Assist
• Assist Card

When it comes to choosing your International Travel Insurance, there are precious tips that will help you: see if the service is 24 hours, how much each one covers medical assistance (take it to cover a higher amount for medical expenses and wide coverage of diseases) and baggage reimbursement – which are the most used cover. Also check if the plan covers hospitalization and transportation in case of unforeseen circumstances. You will print out the policy that they will send you by email, which already has all the information there for you to take with you to Cancun.

3) Is it mandatory to take International Travel Insurance to Cancun?

In some places in the world, such as in Europe, it is mandatory to have an International Travel Insurance contracted to be able to enter any of the countries there. For Cancun, it is not mandatory, but it is also not advisable to travel without. Some people consider hiring only medical assistance for their international trips, but it ends up being more expensive than Travel Insurance – which already includes medical assistance and other benefits. Whoever travels by agency, can hire insurance on their own on the Internet, which is usually cheaper than that of the travel agency.

Important tips to enjoy much more your trip to Cancun

Now that we have given you all the tips about International Travel Insurance for Cancun, here are some more suggestions that will make your trip even better. Cancun is a big city and its tourist spots and beaches are concentrated in some regions, so being well located makes all the difference. If you haven’t already booked your hotel, be sure to check out our article Where to stay in Cancun , with tips from the best regions and also how to get a great hotel at a great price (and find all inclusive hotels and resorts on sale).

Another good tip is that many people think it is not worthwhile to rent a car in Cancun, but it all depends on how your trip will be. If you are staying at the hotel every day, it really is not worth it. But, if you are going on tours, want to go to shopping malls and tourist spots, they are all a little bit apart and the car is great for getting around.

Even in the hotel zone that has everything there, the distance between the points is great, and without the car you need to take a taxi or public bus. With the car, you have more comfort and freedom, not to mention the economy, because with the value of the transport that you will spend from the airport to the hotel and vice versa, you have already paid the rent of a car for almost 5 days. If you want to know all the tips on the subject and how to get incredible prices, see our full article about how to rent a car in Cancun .

Where to buy the cheapest tickets for tours and tourist attractions in Cancun

A good suggestion to save money is to buy tickets, tours and excursions in advance online. It costs a lot less and you don’t waste time in lines there in Cancun. We have done a lot of research and the site that always has the best prices is this Cancun tickets website . They are the biggest tours tickets website in the world.

The unmissable tours that cannot be left out of your trip in any way are: the excursion to Isla Mujeres, excursion to X-Caret or Xel-Há (two incredible natural parks), the Coco Bongo party and the excursion to Chichén Itzá, which is one of the seven wonders of the world. It also has the swim with dolphins which is incredible. Virtually all tours pick you up at your hotel and drop you back there.

How to use your cell phone in Cancun

Being able to use the Internet from your cell phone in Cancun is very worthwhile. The tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping malls and beaches have great applications. In addition, you save by not having to rent a GPS for the car with the rental company, you can search the addresses and times of the places, see the weather forecast to plan for the tours and beaches, stay connected with everyone through applications and post your photos of Cancun on social networks.

If you want, see all our tips to use your cell phone in Cancun . It’s super cheap and you’ll be able to use your cell phone all day and anywhere. And, you can also search all about International Travel Insurance for Cancun for when you’re there.

Other must-see articles from Cancun:

• Best all inclusive resort hotels in Cancun
• Best things to do in Cancun
• Best things to do at night in Cancun

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The Very Best Hotels in Mexico, From Cabo to Cancún

By Michaela Trimble

Over the last few years, a slew of new openings in  Mexico  has drawn attention away from Cancún's supersized resorts and toward boutique stays with a focus on local artisans, design, and sustainability. Now, some of the best hotels in Mexico are found beyond the typical tourist strips and in places like  Tulum , up-and-coming  Zihuatanejo , and flourishing Mexico City . For a getaway on the west coast, east coast, or somewhere in between, our editors have selected the best hotels in Mexico, ranging from beachside treehouses to minimalist boltholes.

How we choose the best hotels in Mexico

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury and properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We're always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service—as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.

A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Jump to hotels in:

• Baja California Peninsula
• Pacific Coast
• Mexico City
• More in central Mexico
• Yucatán Peninsula
• Southern Mexico

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Montage Los Cabos Arrow

Located on 39 quiet acres of beachfront between the overdeveloped hotel zones of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Montage looks out on the serene, divinely swimmable waters of Santa Maria Bay. As impressive is the fact that all of the 122 guest rooms, suites, and casas (not just top-tier rooms) have ocean views, expansive terraces with daybeds, dining areas, and outdoor showers—just the sort of breezy indoor/outdoor setup you want on a beach holiday. And in a town where things can go from place-defining to cliché quickly, Montage gets it right. Interiors have a Mexican 2.0 aesthetic that leans into local materials while executed in a sophisticated desert palette (lots of native wood, earth-toned woven throws and hanging tapestries, and creamy sandstone), and landscaping embraces native, drought-resistant plants like agave, flowering desert figs, and saguaros. The real treat, though, is to sit by the pool with a book and michelada, knowing that the Pacific is there waiting when you’re ready for your plunge. —Rebecca Misner

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas Arrow

Set right on the beach, against the backdrop of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, the Four Seasons is by far the area’s sleekest stay. Exclusivity is of course a draw—a handful of celebrities are rumored to have bought villas. But there’s also a strong outdoor-adventure pull, from snorkeling in nearby Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, where giant polka-dot whale sharks hunt for plankton, to quad-biking empty sand dunes. While there might not be the bars and restaurants to rival Los Cabos, they’re hardly missed. Toes-in-the-sand El Puesto is the spot for ceviche and margaritas; for a proper sit-down meal, an outpost of beloved Greek restaurant Estiatorio Milos serves seafood suppers. All 141 rooms are designed to blend into the surrounding desertscape with sliding glass doors that lead to private terraces, as well as views of the Sea of Cortéz. And unlike on the rough, rocky Pacific side of Baja, the waters here are as tranquil as a lake. —Jen Murphy

One&Only Palmilla Arrow

Arriving at this spot on the very tip of the Baja Peninsula feels like coming home. Many of the staff are third-generation employees who remember not only your name but whether you prefer your margarita made with tequila or mezcal (and which brand), and where you like your yoga mat to be set up in your room. And those rooms. Whitewashed hacienda-style architecture brightened with hand-embroidered textiles, plus perks such as private butlers and, in the case of Villa Cortez, an exclusive fitness suite, spa room, and beach cabana reflect Cabo’s emergence as Latin America’s latest luxury hotspot. There is no shortage of glitzy new five-stars, but as the area’s first proper hotel, Palmilla has a serious advantage: real estate. Its secluded location on one of Cabo’s only swimmable beaches is unbeatable. In the ’50s, Hollywood’s elite flocked here, and today a fresh generation of A-listers does the same. A commitment to discretion and timeless glamour in an age of social-media noise, as well as constant reinvention (new wellness offerings from spiritual healer Alicia Kanxoc), have allowed Baja’s big hitter to continue holding court. —Jen Murphy

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Paradero Todos Santos Arrow

Though experience-based lodgings are old news in countries throughout South America and Africa, Paradero claims to be the first hotel brand to introduce the model to Mexico. Located on a previously unused 5.5-acre plot within a farming community in Baja California Sur’s Todos Santos, it’s become the mission of Mexico City –based founders Pablo Carmona and Joshua Kremer to preserve the over 160 acres of family-owned farms that surround the property. The resort, set in front of a palm tree oasis about 20 minutes from the beach, is made up of a series of brutalist-inspired structures designed by architects Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo. They took note of the landscape’s sunbaked hues and designed the property in golden shades to blend into the sandy natural surrounds. The buildings’ desert tones also allow the plants in the resort’s 100,000-square-foot botanical garden to pop: red sand verbena, Mojave yucca, and Shaw’s agave. Though the resort’s outdoor spa and half-moon shaped infinity pool make it hard to leave the grounds, it would be a shame to miss out on guided hikes through cactus fields to reach the deserted Las Palmas beach, taco tours of the best local spots in Todos Santos, or private surf lessons. The hotel has custom boards positioned in the open-air living room, an airy sanctuary where guests kick back and relax post-adventure in anticipation of seafood-centric meals prepared by chef Eduardo Ríos, an alum of Enrique Olvera’s Mexico City restaurant, Pujol .

Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Arrow

The high-stakes Cabo hotel scene has been particularly frenetic for the past few years, with fresh openings from big-name players like Four Seasons , Montage , and Viceroy . Amid the fray, Ritz-Carlton managed to seek out a 20-acre plot for its fourth reserve, overlooking the indigo Sea of Cortez and built partially on the sand dunes. Suites feel both comfortable and considered, with vast living rooms featuring blue-and-white textiles, objets d’art from local artisans (woven leather baskets, painted pottery), and terraces with firepits. But it’s the staff that truly make the place stand out: remembering favorite breakfast tables and knowing the right chaise lounge around the enormous L-shaped pool at which to drop off each swimmer’s margarita. In one of the world’s most elevated hotel towns, Ritz-Carlton shows that the bar can always be raised. —Stephanie Wu

Baja Club Hotel Arrow

With the opening of Baja Club Hotel along the esplanade of La Paz , the coastal town now has its first proper boutique hotel. Attracting the creative, artistic elite of Mexico City and beyond, the 32-room, Spanish colonial–style property serves as a base for further explorations in the Sea of Cortez, from swimming with the area’s seasonal visitors—whale sharks and blue whales—to boating trips to the biodiverse Espíritu Santo island. The rooms all have either a balcony, terrace, or private outdoor patio, with cream-and-coral striped banquettes as well as Grupo Habita’s classic minibar staple: a house bottle of mezcal for guests to enjoy.

Casona Sforza, Puerto Escondido

You’ll reach Casa Sforza after a windy drive down the dusty roads of Puerto Escondido’s quiet La Barra district. Pure secluded luxury is the order of the day here, allowing you to disconnect and unwind. Mexican architect Alberto Kalach designed this beachfront property with the intention of capturing and not distracting from the striking natural landscapes. The impressive design blends seamlessly into nature, using naturally colored materials and smooth-flowing shapes. The hotel is made up of a series of huge, airy connecting domes that seamlessly slot together to form the 11 suites, an oval-shaped pool, and a bar and restaurant. (Note: There's a strict no children or pets policy throughout.) Beach beds and straw umbrellas spill onto the sandy beach as do spiky cacti, tall palms, and flowering beach shrubs. Follow the wooden stepping stone path to the beach bed dressed in linen curtains or to the shaded hammocks to divide your time between the pool and the beach. Flop and enjoy uninterrupted ocean views; if you plan your visit during migratory months, you may even spot a whale in the distance.

Bedrooms are huge, built from dusty yellow brick that glows warm at golden hour. Ground-floor suites have a private swim-up pool, while second-floor rooms come with a view of the Pacific Ocean, best enjoyed while soaking up the glow of sunset from the huge woven hammock or a freestanding hot tub. The kitchen is run by a husband (who previously did a stint at Lyle's in London) and wife duo originally from Venezuela. — Sophie Knight

Casa To, Puerto Escondido

Little boutique hotel Casa To is made up of just nine bedrooms. But this is a property that's a step above the rest among the boho beach-bum hostels on this corner of the Pacific coast. The self-cooling brutalist design was the craftsmanship of architect Ludwig Godefroy. A jigsaw of circular concrete archways makes up the heart of the hotel, crawling with vines that align and frame the lobby's features. There's a well-stocked bar run by a casually cool barman in a paisley shirt, and cozy corners are filled with wicker seating and sun loungers. Wooden stools dotted with retro teal lamps and the odd photography book, statement vases, and plenty of palms decorate the incense-infused space. Then, of course, the hotel's iconic swimming pool , which runs through a series of concrete circular walls spanning the length of the hotel. Beautiful guests spend most of the day sipping mezcal and lounging in the sunlight that beams onto the pyramid of concrete puzzle steps that make up the back wall, conveniently dotted with pillows and candlelight come dusk. The bedrooms follow suit. Bifolding doors reveal a private garden sheltered by lush green palms. All furnishings, such as the colorful woven rug, the striped linen bedding, and heavy wooden crafted chairs, are local artisanal pieces bringing that home-from-home feel. Glou Glou, the rooftop bar and restaurant, is run by a trendy Argentinian couple who were invited to relocate to Puerto Escondido by the hotel owner after he fell in love with their cooking and hospitality back in Argentina . The highlight is an innovative, intimate, and delicious seven-course tasting menu cooked and prepared right in front of you. — Sophie Knight

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, Mexico Arrow

This is not your parents’ Four Seasons. Formalities, like a front desk, have disappeared, and the traditional concierge has been replaced with guides who can help arrange everything from dinner reservations to surf lessons. The all-inclusive model means the entire stay is blissfully transaction-free, and the intimate scale—at just 30 guests, the size is also a shift for the brand—allows for unscripted experiences such as mezcal tastings with local distillers. And the tented suites are what it takes to persuade travelers to book a hotel in Punta Mita that isn’t right on the beach. Terraced into 48 acres of forested Pacific-facing cliffs, this adults-only luxury tented resort was designed by sustainably minded safari-tent pioneers Luxury Frontiers. Each of its 15 spacious rooms has an indoor soaking tub, an outdoor shower, and a private plunge pool with sunset views. Taking in and getting out into nature is at the heart of Naviva, but a visit to the two spa pods is a must for treatments informed by Mesoamerican traditions, like the five-hour Refuge Retreat. It includes a copal cleansing and Mayan mud massage, plus post-pampering time to soak in the pod’s oversized palm-shaded tub. Guests have access to the amenities at sister property Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita , just next door, but it’s doubtful you’ll want to leave this jungle oasis. —Jen Murphy

One&Only Mandarina Arrow

This glossy, globetrotting hotel group might pick up new destinations as if they were passport stamps, but each is uniquely rooted in place. Here, along the Riviera Nayarit on the wild Pacific coast, that means drawing deeply on Mexico’s magic, with considered references to the Indigenous Cora and Huichol people. Bedrooms, whether oversized treehouses or ocean-facing villas, are a celebration of local culture, from the traditional textiles and pottery to the robes by contemporary Mexico-based label Candor. The spa, set in a natural volcanic-rock garden, is based on ancient healing practices and offers treatments including temazcal sweat-lodge rituals. The hotel has also tapped the country’s top chef, Enrique Olvera—of Mexico City’s Pujol —for Carao, where feasts begin with fresh ceviche and end on homemade cinnamon buñuelos. Meanwhile Alma, an open-air, garden-to-plate spot helmed by French-Mexican Olivier Deboise, is centered around wood-fired, Pan-American-meets-Mediterranean dishes. It might be a step up from the surf hotels down the road, but one that still feels very much in step with Nayarit’s spirit. 

Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection Arrow

Everything about this property is seemingly curated to feel more like a boutique hotel than a resort. It’s normal to stumble upon things like a sound bath experience on the beach led by a local bohemian who infuses jazz with the singing bowls or a sombrero making class. The on-site boutique, a Fashionkind outpost co-owned by Nina Farran and Sophia Bush , includes leading designers from across Latin America, with a special focus on those local to Mexico. The design by Paul Duesing and Glazier Le Architects, sporting stone walls that continue from the balcony to the interior of the room with pebble-floored rain showers clad in colorful tiles almost entirely Mexican made and also supports local and regional makers, artisans, artists, and purveyors, solidifies the POV of being a boho-fresh, intentional, and barefoot sanctuary for those in-the-know. Don’t get me wrong, it still feels like a resort—just a resort that is focused on what is important to today’s customer. —Scott Bay

Four Seasons Tamarindo Arrow

Located in the relatively undeveloped western state of Jalisco, Tamarindo is intentionally secluded. From the moment you pass through its tucked-away gates and steal a far-away glimpse of the bright-blue Pacific through miles of lush jungle, it becomes clear just what a hidden treasure the resort is. The outdoor lobby acts as a central home base for the property, where contemporary seating invites you to leave your worries behind and ornate wooden beams frame sweeping views of the coastline below. To the right sits Tamarindo’s Discovery Center, where guests can learn about the wildlife and vegetation that surround the property and how they change throughout the seasons, as well as the resort’s boutique, which is filled with unique crafts, fashion, and homeware made my local artisans alongside some signature Four Seasons merchandise. Just beneath the lobby’s main structure are several levels of eateries and bars, three infinity pools, the spa, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, all cascading down the cliffside and overlooking the beach. An 18-hole golf course and two additional beaches are just a short golf ride away, as is Rancho Ortega, a 35-acre farm which supplies the resort’s produce, meat, and eggs and will soon produce its own tequila. —Gabby Shacknai

Verana Yelapa Arrow

Even the most seasoned traveler may have trouble thinking of the last time they stayed in a handmade hotel—they are extremely rare. Few places can be as intricately and ingeniously imagined as Verana. When set designer Heinz Legler and decorator Veronique Lievre left Los Angeles to purchase a plot of land in Mexico’s remote Bay of Banderas in 1997, they had one idea in mind—to build a home surrounded by nature at their own pace. The couple settled into the lush hilltop, only accessible by boat and mule, and began constructing, responding to the landscape and seasons, preserving as much of the natural environment as possible. It may sound romantic, surrendering to the unknown in the pursuit of artistic dreams, but the reality required dedication and true grit. The idea of a single home evolved into 10 casas embedded into the jungle with spellbinding views of the ocean, many of which are wall-less structures with modern thatched roofs and outdoor showers. Some have a private plunge pool or Japanese-style tea lounge. To stay here is to be immediately transported. Don’t be surprised to find it fully booked for a wedding or creative retreat. People come to Verana to become less distracted and more connected to themselves. To shut out the noise. But that’s not all. With thoughtfully coordinated color-blocked walls, an outdoor library, vintage objects made by Mexican artisans, and a spa to manage any tropical discomfort, the alchemy of inspired design dissolves any pressures from the outside world. Wake up to tea and freshly baked bread left on the doorstep, spend dreamy hours whale-watching, and fall asleep to the sound of wind gently swishing trees back and forth. In one of the most beautiful parts of Mexico, the real luxury is space to just be. — Jade Moyano

Rosewood San Miguel de Allende Arrow

The Rosewood's 13 acres are enviably sited in San Miguel de Allende's centro, and the hotel is without peer in a town that has its share of swank stays. Portals and stone paths lead to tiered swimming pools, two-person cabanas, covered patios, and a tequila bar, and the 67 rooms are grand and outfitted with regionally sourced hardwood floors and Spanish colonial furnishings. Even a standard king, at an already-generous 535 square feet, comes with special treatment: A bubble bath lit by candles is drawn at turndown upon request. Views from the rooftop Luna tapas bar make a seat here especially sought-after at sunset.

Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel Arrow

The babble of a courtyard fountain, a breeze that shoulders its way through stone arches: Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel is an unquestionably sensory experience. But the more elemental charms of this historical marvel, whose 17th- and 18th-century buildings are scattered across San Miguel de Allende ’s Centro district, are only part of its allure; the rest it owes to the human touch. I arrived at my suite—a corner unit cleaved from a former mansion—to find my wedding portrait set into a carved tin frame; one afternoon, I returned to find textured strips of paper on my reading stack—bookmarks. Chef Alejandra Puente told me about her daughter as we contemplated fresh avocados at the local market, gathering up the bounty we would need for my private cooking class. This is hospitality at its finest. —Betsy Blumenthal

Casa Delphine Arrow

San Miguel de Allende has captivated writers and artists including Jack Kerouac and Frida Kahlo since the 1940s. It also bewitched LA jewelry designer Amanda Keidan, who fell so hard for its bohemian vibe that she relocated to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed spot in Mexico's Central Highlands and bought an empty hotel. With just five rooms, it hits the right note in this artistic landscape so dominated by big-name players. And unlike other small properties opening in the outskirts, it has one of the more enviable addresses, just a 10-minute stroll from the famous neo-Gothic Parroquia church with its distinctive orange-pink towers soaring above El Jardín. The latter is the social heart of the city where everything—fiesta band practice, football games, lovers meeting on benches shaded by laurel trees—takes place. There are original cantera-stone fireplaces, colorful painted tiles from nearby Dolores Hidalgo and lampshades from printmaker Ri Anderson. Local woodworker Peter Grau crafted the cedar dining table where jalapeño-spiked avocado toast and pastries are laid out each morning. Keidan’s insider knowledge rivals any hotel concierge’s, offering tips on everything from her favorite restaurants (El Manantial for tacos) and shops (KM33 for dresses) to Pilates classes and spa treatments. Tarot suppers and chef-led pop-ups double as mini house parties. This feels like a revitalization of the scene, drawing in a new wave of creatives. —Jen Murphy

Insider tip: Book the rooftop suite with its hot tub and epic views of the church spires.

Octavia Casa Arrow

Fashion designer Roberta Maceda has crafted this seven-room retreat in the chi-chi area of La Condesa as a minimalist extension of her Octavia clothing line. On the ground floor, next to a breezy seating area with bamboo stools grouped around a concrete table by interior firm Habitación 116, there’s a shoppable bronze rail of her pieces that may include white button-up shirts or a black-and-white snakeskin ensemble. Upstairs, rooms are also decorated in neutral tones and each is named after a natural material, from walnut ( nogal ) and linen ( lino ) to earth ( tierra ) and bronze ( bronce ). The softest bedding comes from Octavia’s new homeware line, while the rest of the studied hangout spaces showcase other Mexican makers with blown-glass cups by Onora and cream-colored vases from ceramics studio Encrudo filled with dried magnolia leaves. There’s no restaurant, but breakfast is brought in from a nearby bakery— conchas (sweet pastries) are served with homemade hibiscus-and-ginger jam and eaten in the meditative pebble-floored garden under a guava tree. In the evenings it’s a short stroll to local favorites such as Italian restaurant Lardo and natural-wine bar Hugo. This is a meticulously designed gateway to Mexico City’s coolest scene.

Casa Polanco Arrow

Set in Mexico City ’s posh Polanco neighborhood , a stay at this elegantly renovated Spanish Revival-style mansion feels like a peek inside the lives of well-to-do chilangos (Mexico City locals). Polanco is within walking distance from sites like Chapultepec Park, a popular hangout for local families on the weekends, and lovely for morning jogs; and a short drive from Museo Soumaya, known for its unique architecture and mirror-like façade. Just around the corner are the trendy Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods for eating, drinking, and boutique shopping. While many Mexico City hotels play to classic heritage motifs, Casa Polanco shows off a different side of the city. Here, the lines are clean, neutrals take precedence, and there’s a subtle prep-school flavor with houndstooth pillows and plaid napkins. Given this is a home, soak up the spaces that so clearly remind you that you're in one. Order a glass of wine at the lobby bar and take it to one of the many shared terraces; after a long day, grab a nook in the well-curated library and flip through one of the many coffee table books on Mexican art, history, or culture. —Megan Spurrell

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City Arrow

Even though it’s set on busy Paseo de la Reforma, this name-brand luxury hotel delivers tranquil, boutique charms. Rooms are set around an interior courtyard, and you’re just a short distance from Chapultepec Park , offering respite from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City. Add to that all the other Four Seasons hallmarks—insanely comfortable beds, high-quality service, and wellness amenities like a pool, gym, and spa—and you’re guaranteed a memorable experience. —Susannah Rigg

Circulo Mexicano Arrow

Known for creating Mexico’s trendiest boutique properties, the hotel developer Grupo Habita transformed this 19th-century townhome in Centro Histórico into a Shaker-inspired boutique hotel. The result is Circulo Mexicano, which begins with a buzzing marketplace-style ground floor and moves up to the chilled-out rooftop with an infinity pool, Japanese soaking tub, and views of Centro Histórico sights: the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Templo Mayor. The 25 bedrooms are fitted out with custom oak pieces and most have their own contemplative terrace or balcony. Head to the courtyard Itacate del Mar restaurant for innovative takes on Mexican street snacks, the standout of which are the tostadas with tangy tuna or fried calamari topped with shiitake mushrooms.

Chablé Maroma, Riviera Maya Arrow

This may quite possibly be the only hotel in Mexico that combines the level of wellness travelers now hop planes for with the country’s trademark sugary beaches. It has 70 neutral-palette suites, each with its own pool, terrace, and palm-shrouded outdoor rain shower. And let’s not forget its access to Riviera Mayakoba’s powdery beach. True to the brand, Maroma’s bright spa remains deeply rooted in Mayan healing traditions (the temazcal ceremony, led by a local healer, is the real-deal, requiring a two-hour commitment). While your schedule in the Yucatán is packed with fitness classes and spa sessions, Maroma encourages time spent sipping margaritas by the infinity pool, as any Mexican resort should. Chef Jorge Vallejo of Mexico City ’s top-ranked Quintonil oversees the menus, sourcing ingredients from on-site ka’anches, Mayan gardens. Seafood is the star at Maroma, showcased at the rooftop raw bar and at casual restaurant, Kaban. The tasting menu-only restaurant Bu’ul is more ambitious, with regional dishes like mamey fruit tartare topped with glazed escamoles, surprisingly tasty ant larvae, which will challenge (and wow) your palate. —Jen Murphy

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya Arrow

The most distinctive part of Hilton’s luxury debut on Mexico’s Riviera Maya is its chameleon-like approach to hospitality. Yes, with its 349 rooms, acres of pools, 11 restaurants, and kids’ and teens’ clubs, the Conrad is the type of resort whose (large bronze) gates a traveler would be content to pass through only twice: right before check-in and right after checkout. Spiritually, though, it aligns more closely with the smaller-scale properties 30 minutes north in Tulum that seek to connect guests with the surrounding destination. Honoring the Mayan cultures that have occupied this stretch of Caribbean coast for centuries, a traditional sacbe, or “white road”—the name of the ancient roadways Mayans created to travel by moonlight—cuts through the jungled grounds. In the lobby, a soaring art installation takes a cue from Mayan macramé. And at the cenote-inspired spa, a traditional four-hands massage is second only to a jalapeño margarita in the open-air bar as a way to immediately shed any lingering real-life stress remaining after a dip in the sea. —Erin Florio

Waldorf Astoria Cancún Arrow

For all the resorts that crowd Mexico’s east coast, the Waldorf stands out for its truly white-glove service and amenities that make it hard to leave the property. There are infinity pools aplenty, acres of pristine coastline, and that most glorious asset of all, the feeling of complete privacy in one of the country’s most bustling vacation spots. The decor, a soothing sea of creams and sand hues, spotlights Mexican artisans and highlights materials like tropical woods and local stone. The vibe here is palpably slow—no rushing from one activity to the next, just relaxing. And there are enough private cabanas to go around—you can forget about the dreaded visit to the pool at dawn to reserve a great spot. There are also dozens of lounge chairs facing the beach for when the ocean is your dip du jour. With comfortable yet polished rooms, an excellent spa, and a clutch of bars and restaurants serving excellent riffs on traditional dishes and drinks, this is Cancun like you’ve never seen it. —Meaghan Kenny

Habitas Bacalar Arrow

A four-hour drive south of heavily touristed Cancún, the discreet Habitas Bacalar entrance on the side of a remote road makes you feel like you’ve been let in on a grand secret. The place is small—just 34 rooms, each with a maximum occupancy of two—and has a very communal vibe. The hotel makes an effort to bring the community to you, by hosting local vendors for guest experiences like a cacao-and-wine tasting, and partnering with local businesses for complimentary paddleboard tours, yoga lessons, and more. Meanwhile, the wellness program sources local ingredients for its spa products, and restaurant Siete uses traditional Mayan cooking techniques. —Mercedes Bleth

Hotel Esencia, Xpu-Ha Arrow

Right on Xpu-ha beach, the best stretch of white sands on this part of Mexico's Caribbean coast, Esencia is one of those hotels that is spoken about in hushed tones by bohemians in the know, none of whom want to let this secret get out. But those who do make it here discover a small, natural beauty of place set on a palm-swaying estate on the edge of the tumbling sea. There are hammocks to laze in, and a dimly lit spa where lotions and potions made from garden herbs are crushed into poultices to smooth out knots. For snorkeling among rainbow-colored fish, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is a five-minute hop on the hotel’s catamaran. There are ceviches and tiraditos to try at Mistura, a restaurant with views of the moon-dappled sea, and a wooden beach bar that does the best Margaritas in Mexico. Then there are the rooms. The interiors of the house, originally built as a hideaway for an Italian duchess, have splashes of fifties art and huge bedrooms with generous terraces. The Jungle Rooms, complete with plunge pools and beach suites, are a study in white. All in all, it is perfect. —Mary Lussiana

Casa Silencio Arrow

Located in a windswept valley within the community of Xaagá (about one hour outside downtown Oaxaca City ), this six-room boutique property is an isolated refuge for spirits enthusiasts who desire to taste rare editions of Mezcal El Silencio. Designed by the Mexican architect Alejandro D’Acosta, using a rose-hued shade of compressed clay—along with reclaimed wood, steel, and stone—the property’s heartbeat is an open-air dining room with outdoor fire pits, where its legendary mezcal tastings are held. Each of the six rooms features a moody aesthetic, with design touches like abstract black-and-white textiles produced by local artisans, copper light fixtures, and wood-burning fireplaces.

Escondido Oaxaca Arrow

The city of Oaxaca has long been celebrated for its ancestral artistry and gastronomy, which homegrown hoteliers Grupo Habita have drawn on for their latest opening here. Fusing old and new, behind an unassuming russet red facade downtown, architect Alberto Kalach has added a surprising Brutalist addition to this colonial-era home. Minimalist-looking rooms, four in the original building and eight in the new tower, are dedicated to elevated Mexican craftsmanship. Each features a majority of furniture produced from ahuehuete wood (a type of Mexican cypress that is sacred to the local Zapotec culture and even featured in their creation story), while locally-made olive bedspreads match the elemental interiors. Another surprise is dished up in the restaurant where chef Mario Petterino turns out classic dishes from his home region of Piedmont, Italy, such as homemade ravioli and gelato. Afterwards, enjoy a mezcal nightcap in the library-like ‘Culture Room’. The hotel is in walking distance of all the city’s attractions, from the famed restaurant Criollo by chef Enrique Olvera to the main plaza, home to the Templo Santo Domingo church and the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, that connects Oaxaca’s cultures of past and present; much like the hotel itself.

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How artificial intelligence is changing the way you buy travel insurance.

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Artificial intelligence is changing the way you buy travel insurance. Here's how.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way you buy travel insurance. From shopping for a policy to filing a claim, there's no part that hasn't been touched by AI.

"AI is revolutionizing travel insurance," says Greg Jung, chief growth officer for Seven Corners . "It's making it more efficient and tailored to individual needs."

Words like "efficient" and "tailored" are rare in the one-size-fits-all, bureaucratic travel insurance industry. For years, consumers had limited choices. And when they filed a claim, it took close to forever to get an answer, much less get paid.

Not anymore.

Jung says AI is doing away with that. The benefits to travelers include:

• Personalized coverage. AI can analyze vast amounts of data on traveler profiles, including travel history, preferences, and even risk factors like age and health conditions. That allows insurers to recommend customized travel insurance plans that provide the right level of coverage for each individual's needs.
• Proactive risk management. AI can analyze data to predict potential disruptions or emergencies that could impact a traveler's trip. This allows insurers to offer assistance, such as medical advice or flight rebooking assistance, in case of unforeseen events.
• Faster claims processing. AI can automate much of the claims process, verifying documents, assessing damages, and expediting settlements. Travelers can be reimbursed for covered expenses much more quickly, especially for straightforward claims.

Behind the scenes, travel insurance companies are also using AI to conduct better risk management. And there are parts of the business where travel insurance companies won't talk about how they use AI, such as in efforts to sell policies on their sites. Travel insurance companies are also hush-hush about how they are analyzing data to set rates and identify patterns in fraudulent claims data.

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This story is a long time coming. Travel insurance companies have been generally slow to adopt AI. You can see artificial intelligence in action in a few places, but in the places that matter to you — such as finding the best policy — there are still some gaps. AI won't fix everything in travel insurance, but it promises to make many things better.

What took travel insurance so long?

Why has AI been slow to catch on in the travel insurance industry? Well, it has — and it hasn't. I wrote about how Allianz was using machine learning to improve its products five years ago .

But across the industry, change has been gradual.

"Travel Insurance is highly regulated," explains Tim Dodge, vice president of marketing at Arch RoamRight . "There are strict policy definitions, communications guidelines and adjudication rules to which we must adhere. For AI to be successful in our industry, it has to be implemented carefully; improving the customer experience while maintaining regulatory compliance."

If you file a travel insurance claim and get frustrated with the time it takes to be settled, it's because of the way travel insurance is set up. There's a lot of required documentation to review in support of the claim.

Dodge says AI can potentially facilitate and speed up the claims handling process and reduce claimants' frustrations, and that's what travel insurance companies are now doing.

Where can you see AI in action right now in travel insurance?

Travel insurance companies are not waiting for the future.

Arch RoamRight’s AI chatbot has been integrated into every aspect of its customer experience, from its phone system to its website and travel agent portal. It's even used as a training tool for new hires, according to Dodge.

At Generali Global Assistance , a carefully trained chatbot helps customers obtain instant assistance, receive accurate information, and navigate policy complexities. "This digitalization empowers our agents to provide personalized support promptly," says Christopher Carnicelli, CEO of Generali Global Assistance.

Allianz Travel Insurance has been using AI to help streamline its claims process for years. It just added a new chatbot for customer support, too. "Our chatbot supports the customer during filing in the event the customer has questions or needs further assistance, and uses AI to qualify the customer’s needs to quickly get them the help they need,” explains Maggie Butler, director of customer experience at Allianz Partners USA.

At Faye Travel Insurance , an AI-powered app helps customers file claims for flight cancellations, baggage delays, and medical emergencies. The app speeds up the claims process, ensuring travelers get paid in hours instead of days. "It's part of our commitment to making travel insurance an integral and personalized part of each traveler’s experience," says Elad Schaffer, Faye's CEO.

Over time, the entire travel insurance industry will embrace AI. But there are exceptions.

Can artificial intelligence help you find the best travel insurance?

AI might help you find a better policy, but you have to know where to look. I tested the major AIs to see how they responded to a sample query, "I'm a 28-year-old woman who lives in New York. I am planning a one-week trip to Paris this summer. Please help me find the best travel insurance."

• Gemini offered two options — Generali and Travel Insured International, but did not show rates or a bookable link. The responses appeared to be based on a news article.
• Meta AI generated a succinct response citing the benefits of travel insurance with key coverage areas.
• Microsoft Copilot showed a generic "how-to" story about travel insurance based on an article I had written for Forbes.
• Hugging Face gave a generic response with advice on how to buy travel insurance.
• Perplexity offered several specific options, including Seven Corners, Nationwide and Travelex. However, it based its quotes on a story on a news site and did not offer a link to buy the policies.

Bottom line: You can't really shop for travel insurance using AI — at least, not yet.

AI doesn't work for everything in travel insurance

In the travel insurance industry, like in other places, artificial intelligence isn't the answer to everything.

For example, at INF Visitor Care , a company that sells travel insurance to those traveling to the U.S., AI is helping automate its claims system. INF applies machine learning to identify emerging trends in claims to design policies that cover customers when they need it for unexpected issues.

"It has revolutionized the way we think about pricing and policy coverages," says PK Rao, CEO of INF Visitor Care .

But when it comes to customer service, AI is not always the best solution.

"We find customers enjoy talking to a live person on chat and phone," adds Rao.

The future of travel insurance and AI is promising

Over the long term, AI promises to reshape the travel insurance business into one that works the way customers expect it to — quickly, nimbly and efficiently.

At least that's what Daniel Green, chief technology officer for Faye Travel Insurance , sees.

"Imagine a world where most insurance claims are processed in hours instead of days," he says. "A computer system can go out and collect all the documentation for you and prepare the paperwork perfectly, ready for a human to make a quick decision on whether to approve it or not."

AI also has the potential to insure you for only what you need — to give you the "perfect" policy.

"AI can prepare it in seconds based on being able to tell a computer in your own words what coverage you need, by having it translated into insurance paperwork-speak for you," he adds.

We aren't quite there yet, but we're getting close.

There's one more thing that is potentially keeping AI from changing travel insurance — and that is customers themselves.

Breanne Armstrong, who is director of insurance intelligence at J.D. Power, says most consumers understand that artificial intelligence and machine learning have a lot of potential, "but there is hesitancy."

Armstrong bases her observation on another study that J.D. Power recently conducted on banking customers and AI. Only 28% of respondents said they believe AI will make their lives better in the next three years. Roughly one-third say it will make no difference, and 17% say it will make their lives worse.

All you have to do is engage with any chatbot to understand those 17% of respondents. Talking to an AI about banking or travel insurance — or anything else, really — can quickly end in frustration.

"There are mixed sentiments," adds Armstrong.

That may well describe how people feel about travel insurance and AI. It could be great. But if it isn't implemented carefully, it could be not so great.

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7 Secrets to Finding the Best Mexican Souvenirs

M exico is not only a beautiful country with rich traditions and landscapes, but it also offers a variety of unique souvenirs that embody its vibrant culture.

As a travel expert that lives in Mexico, I’ve picked up several tips on how to find the most authentic and meaningful mementos.

Here are 7 secrets to help you discover the best souvenirs during your travels across Mexico.

Planning a trip to Mexico? Use my favorite travel resources!

Hotels: Expedia or Booking.com

Flights: Skyscanner

Rental Cars: Discover Cars

Tours & Activities: Viator

Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance Master

1. Shop Local Markets

Local markets are the heart of Mexican towns and cities. They are where locals shop and where you’ll find handcrafted items at the best prices.

Look for markets that are off the beaten path or outside of town to find one-of-a-kind items that aren’t mass-produced for tourists.

For example, 5th Avenue is a fun place to go shopping in Playa del Carmen but it’s very touristy and the quality of the souvenirs may not be the best.

Instead, head to Cozumel’s Mercado Municipal or a small village outside of town for a more authentic shopping experience.

2. Know the Origin of Handicrafts

Each region in Mexico specializes in certain crafts. Knowing which region excels in what can guide you to quality purchases.

For example, Talavera pottery is best bought in Puebla, silver jewelry in Taxco, woven textiles in Chiapas, and Huichol art in Jalisco and Nayarit.

By shopping for regional specialties or even just verifying where they came from, you ensure authenticity and often a higher quality of craftsmanship.

3. Avoid Tour Shopping Stops

If you’re taking a tour to visit major attractions in Mexico like Chichen Itza , Teotihuacan , or the Tulum Ruins , you’ll probably have a shopping stop at a designated “tourist shop.”

These shops often sell overpriced, mass-produced items that may not be the best quality.

Avoid them and opt for local markets or smaller shops outside of tourist areas for more authentic and affordable finds.

4. Look Beyond Souvenirs

While traditional handicrafts make great souvenirs, don’t limit yourself to just those items.

Mexican markets also offer a variety of local food and drinks, such as chocolate and cacao, coffee, honey, vanilla, tequila, pulque, and mezcal.

Local markets are also great places to try local street food and experience the authentic flavors of Mexico.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Haggle

Haggling is a common practice in Mexico, especially in local markets.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate a lower price, but remember to do so respectfully and try to speak Spanish if you can.

Start by offering half the asking price and negotiate from there. You will more than likely get a better deal!

6. Attend Local Festivals

Local festivals are extremely common in Mexico and usually take place in the main town square.

They offer a great opportunity to find unique souvenirs as many artisans and vendors sometimes come from other parts of the country to sell their goods.

Not only will you have a chance to purchase authentic items, but you’ll also get to experience the vibrant culture of Mexico firsthand.

7. Support Indigenous Communities

Many indigenous communities in Mexico rely on handicrafts as their main source of income.

By supporting them and purchasing their products, you not only get an authentic souvenir but also contribute to the preservation of these traditional crafts.

If you rent a car and venture outside of town, you can find some of the best souvenirs in small towns and local villages.

For example, on the way from Playa del Carmen to Chiquila , you’ll find small shops selling beautiful hammocks, baskets, dreamcatchers, and home decor made by the local communities.

Armed with these secrets, you can find souvenirs that are not only authentic and high quality but also imbued with the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.

These treasures will serve as meaningful reminders of your travels and the unique cultures you experienced.

• 5 Most Vibrant and Colorful Places to Visit in Mexico
• 15 Common Mistakes Tourists Make When Visiting Mexico
• 7 Things You Should Never Do in Playa del Carmen

Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

The post 7 Secrets to Finding the Best Mexican Souvenirs appeared first on Viva La Travelista .

Can using VPN save you money on hotels, car rentals? I tested it out.

As I planned a trip to Mexico for this summer, my search for a bargain took me over the border without ever leaving my desk.

A recent study commissioned by cybersecurity company NordVPN found that U.S. travelers were being charged significantly more than those overseas for accommodations and rental cars.

"There's no need to overpay for a holiday abroad," the company said in a blog post about the research. "Using a VPN can save you a lot of money – and it's easy to get started."

Perennially drawn to finding a deal with minimal effort, I used that approach to plan three hypothetical trips and put the strategy to the test. Here's what I learned by using two different VPN services.

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Can you find travel deals by using a VPN?

NordVPN researchers found some major price differences when booking travel in the U.S. versus using a VPN, a virtual private network  that hides your IP address and physical location.

A two-week stay for a family of four at Zoetry Casa del Mar Los Cabos in Mexico, for instance, was priced at $84,929 on Hotels.com when booking in the U.S., but just $27,514 when using a VPN set in Mexico, according to the blog post.

In another case, renting a Peugeot 5008 from Budget – via Expedia – at London's Gatwick Airport for a little over a week costs $2,157.32 in the U.S. compared to $1,166.33 using a VPN set to the United Kingdom.

But the searches didn't strictly yield deals. "When conducting the research, there were cases when prices offered to consumers in different countries were similar," the company said in a news release.

In my own hunt for bargains using NordVPN, I came up mostly empty-handed. I compared hotel and rental car bookings in Mexico, the U.K. and Italy to U.S.-based prices and most were almost identical regardless of my virtual country of origin.

A June weekend stay at Fairfield Inn Los Cabos ran $334 via Hotels.com in the U.S. for one room, for example, and just a few cents more with my location set to Mexico, while renting a Chevrolet Aveo or similar car from Hertz in Mexico City cost about $49.50 per day in both cases.

Story continues below.

My luck didn't turn around across the pond, either: The Westin London City cost me $948 in the U.S. and about $949.50 with my location set to the U.K. In one case, the U.S. price was noticeably cheaper: when I priced out a rental car from Budget at London's Heathrow Airport, I stood to pay $278.82 in the U.S. and $364.65 with the help of a VPN set to the United Kingdom.

I did find one deal on a Fiat Panda 1.2 – or similar-sized vehicle – at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Rome from Sicily by Car via Expedia. The U.S. price was $146 compared to $101.98 when I set my location to Italy.

I tried the same approach the next day using another VPN service, ExpressVPN, but got similar results.

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"Typically, you can find great deals by looking at local sites (in the place) you are traveling to, but it's not always consistent and other locations can sometimes present a cheaper price, so it does take trial and error to hunt down the best price," Lauren Hendry Parsons, ExpressVPN privacy advocate and global head of communications, told USA TODAY in an email.

A spokesperson for Expedia Group – which operates Expedia and Hotels.com, among others – said the company did not have any information to add. Hertz and Avis Budget Group did not respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

Can you get cheaper flights by using VPN?

While NordVPN's study didn't include flights, I went ahead and checked fares from New York to each country, too.

The lowest fares were about the same in most cases, but I found a slight price difference on round-trip flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Mexico City, which would have cost me $602 booking in the U.S., but the same itinerary was around $586 with the VPN set to Mexico (the same was true with both NordVPN and ExpressVPN).

Does using a VPN to book travel work?

It depends. Different rate structures can be applied to different distribution channels and geography, according to Robert Cole, Senior Research Analyst, Lodging and Leisure Travel at Phocuswright.

A hotel might give a third-party booking site a cheaper rate but request that the site only list that price in a specific place, for example.

"They go, 'That's great, but do not sell that in the U.S.,'" Cole said. "You know, 'We are Miami Beach resort or we're a resort in Cancun (or) the Dominican Republic, we want German business.'"

Prices can vary on a host of other factors, too, including timing and availability, he said, and the best deal for a given booking may be on a U.S. site. A website might also require travelers to provide a home address or, in the case of rental cars, a driver's license from that country in order to access a given rate, Cole added.

He recommended proceeding with caution, particularly if you are booking with a foreign site you aren't familiar with, where help may be hard to track down if a problem occurs.

"My words of warning are, yes, you can do it, but that you have to be very careful knowing who you're dealing with," Cole added. "So, it's very much traveler beware."

Is using a VPN to book travel worth it?

My largely fruitless bargain hunt may have been due to bad luck, or perhaps travelers looking to find the kinds of deals NordVPN researchers did have to exercise more patience.

And while I may not have saved much on the hypothetical trips, the experiment did cost me money. I paid just over $14 for a one-month NordVPN subscription and nearly $13 for a monthly subscription to ExpressVPN.

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Along the way, I ran into roadblocks, too.

After checking prices on hotels and rental cars in Mexico, I clicked my way to the U.K., but Hotels.com repeatedly asked me to prove I was not a robot by choosing the penguin in a series of graphics. Several attempts later, the site would not let me out of penguin jail and I switched over to Expedia.

Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, said in an email that its researchers ran into the bot identification issue and fixed it "by effectively disconnecting from the VPN, clearing the browsing data/cache/cookies etc and then going into the site again."

Parsons also said banks and credit card companies have varying policies regarding international transaction fees. "So if a person were to make a purchase in a currency outside their home market it would depend on the terms and conditions of the bank or credit card company they use whether they would be charged a transaction fee for this purchase or not," she said.

As he put it, when it comes to using a VPN to book travel, there are "inherent risks that may not be worth the potential reward."

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].