Everything You Need to Know About Overlanding Mexico
by Zach Lazzari, Cross Border Coverage | 07 August 2022 | Mexico Travel Guide
Mexico is an overlanderโs paradise with every terrain and ecosystem imaginable, from the beaches of Baja and the Yucatan Peninsula to the high peaks and mountain pueblos scattered across the many ranges in the country.
Itโs not uncommon for travellers to set off south dreaming of the Pan American Highway, only to find themselves lost to the allure of culture, food and destinations in this great country.
If you want to tackle Mexico for a few days or a few months, there are a few things to know before crossing the border.
# Crossing Borders and Things Youโll Need
Crossing the border is the most difficult part about overlanding in Mexico.
Depending on the entry point and your experience level, it can seem chaotic. Take a deep breath, go slow and youโll get through just fine. You will, however, need a few things to drive in Mexico.
FMM Visa
This is a tourist visa that designates the number of days you are allotted for travelling in Mexico.
7 day FMM visas are free and longer durations require a small fee. They go all the way up to a maximum duration of 180 days. Always ask for longer than you need to be on the safe side.
TIP
This stands for Temporary Import Permit, and it applies to your vehicle (or motorcycle, RV, boat).
If you only plan to travel in Baja/Sonora, the TIP is not needed for vehicles. Otherwise, most border crossings have a banjercito office where you obtain the TIP and FMM. The duration for each permit matches the duration of your stay, so you must drive the vehicle out when you leave.
Mexican Car Insurance
Your US or Canadian insurance stops at the border and youโll need a Mexican policy.
Itโs mandatory to have liability insurance at a minimum for your RV, motorcycle or vehicle, but you can also purchase full coverage policies for greater protection.
# Basic Logistics for Driving in Mexico
For the most part, Mexico has the same supply chains as the United States, and as such, finding vehicle parts and common necessities is a breeze.
Gas, Diesel, Propane and Water
Gasoline and diesel are the same as in the USA and Canada. Modern diesel engines will benefit from carrying additives as necessary, but Mexico has plenty of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel, just like its neighbours in the north.
Connections for propane are the same, but new LP propane tanks use a pressure regulator that is not always compatible with fill station connections. You can however find adapters that will make it easy to refill USA propane tanks in Mexico.
Tanks from other areas, such as Latin America, might have differing fittings as well, so inform yourself if youโre coming from other regions.
Clean water is a major concern for new travellers, but surprisingly easy to find in Mexico.
Agua Purificada stations sell purified water in 5-gallon jerry cans for a few cents. You can also refill your own tanks and jugs at these stations, and they are abundant and typically centralised in most towns.
Mechanics and Overlanding Resources
The iOverlander app is the holy grail of resources for overlanders in Mexico.
The information is crowdsourced and is excellent for finding mechanics, parts, propane, water and campsites. It also allows you to save Google maps for offline use, so you can continue navigating safely when off the grid.
Lastly, there are Facebook groups specific to overlanding and driving through Mexico. They are great sources of expert information that will surely help you on your travels.
# Popular Regions for Overlanders
Every region in Mexico has opportunities to explore in your overland rig, a few very popular while others overlooked. These are nice starting points but with a little research and an adventurous spirit, you can find secret gems throughout the country.
Baja and Sonora
Known as the free zone, these two regions are popular for good reason. Access is easy and you donโt need to drive far to find quiet beaches and great campsites.
Of course, driving the entire Baja Peninsula is well worth doing as the narrow strip of land has oceans on two sides and remote desert tracks seemingly everywhere.
The Sea of Cortez is prominent in both zones and many Arizona residents make quick trips to Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point) to enjoy the ocean.
Itโs convenient to reach, and there are endless miles of sandy beaches to enjoy on both peninsulas.
Yucatan Peninsula
Where Baja is remote, the Yucatan is not.
The bustling resort cities are developed, but there are still some great places to camp.
Alternatively, you can pull into hostels and hotels, opting to stay inside or in your rig (often for cheap). The opportunities for boating, beach bumming and enjoying the tropical Caribbean vibes make this a fun area to explore.
North Central Mexico
The mountains of central Mexico (north of Mexico City) are amazing, and you will find a number of must visit places with fun drives and plenty of nature.
San Luis Potosi and Aguascalientes both offer wonderful waterfalls and natural pools, where you can swim alongside a rich history and wonderful architecture.
The Chiapas Region
Way south, near the Guatemalan border, lies a series of lush mountains, big lakes and beautiful cities.
San Cristรณbal de Las Casas has narrow one way streets through colonial architecture and vibrant colored buildings.
The region is filled with Mayan culture, pottery and crafts that are culturally unique and as beautiful as the surrounding nature.
Now that you have the basics, start looking at routes and dreaming up trips!
Mexico has some of the best food and kindest people on the planet.
Dive in and enjoy the journey south of the US border.
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