Solo Road Trip to Mexico
Tara A. Spears
Trying to decide whether to drive or fly to Mexico? Both are comfortable and safe. I prefer driving because the greatest part of a road trip isn’t arriving at your destination, it’s all the wild stuff that happens along the way.
For those singles that want the independence of bringing your own vehicle SOTB, you can get advice on best routes by visiting https://drivemexicomagazine.com or https://www.lapenitarvpark.com plus learn dates for caravan companions. The biggest hassle of the trip is dealing with the USA/Mexico border crossing.
Crossing the Mexico Border from the U.S. can be relatively quick or hours long aggrevation depending on the time of day. When driving to Mexico, you will need to choose the proper lane. Some are labeled “Nothing to Declare – Nada que Declarar” and others are called “Declaration Lane – Carril de Declaracion.” The lane you select depends upon what you are bringing into Mexico. Even if you have nothing to declare, you could be selected for inspection. The Nothing to Declare lane you will encounter a stoplight that randomly gives you a red or green light.
If the light turns green when you’re under it, proceed directly into Mexico. However, if the traffic light is red, you’ll be directed to an area where you’ll park, and a Mexican customs official may ask you some questions or search you and your car. Fortunately, as long as your papers, like your Mexico vehicle permit and tourist card, are in order, and you are carrying nothing illegal, you’ll be waved on and allowed to proceed into Mexico. If you are bringing gifts or new merchandise with tags, you may be questioned about bringing these items in for resale. Visit the Mexican government website to learn the current restrictions on allowable goods.
Now that the border is in the rearview mirror, it’s time to crank up the music player and enjoy the stunning vistas of northern Mexico. The undulating highways seem to travel back in time to a simpler era as you pass dusty villages. It’s so amazing to see people still riding donkeys as they go about their business. You miss all of the charming shops and interesting people if you fly!
First off, anticipate the driving differences. Toll roads, marked as “CUOTA,” are faster, safer, and better maintained. They accept pesos and major cards. Free roads “Libres” are scenic but slower, with more curves and cross traffic. For long drives, choose cuotas when possible. Save every toll receipt, some include limited roadside assistance through CAPUFE. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour. “ALTO” means to stop completely. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone, and handheld cell phone use while driving is prohibited. Traffic police may ask for your documents; always remain courteous and show your printed insurance. Be alert for Topes (speed bumps) and vados (dips) because they are EVERYWHERE and can appear suddenly, even on highways. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour. “ALTO” means stop completely and the sign is placed before the intersection. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone, and handheld cell phone use while driving is prohibited. Be vigilant at gas stations: Watch that the pump starts at zero before attendant begins to fill your car.
If you haven’t driven in Mexico before, there are several rules of the road you need to be aware of to avoid accidents, emergencies, and getting stranded south of the border. It’s easy to observe these tips and have a safe, great adventure traveling solo.
Avoid driving at night and NEVER after 9:00 at night on out of town highways. Don’t panic if you break down, pull over to the side of the road and put your car’s hood up. Call 078, Angeles Verdes, who patrol 206 Mexican roads and provide free help. When the driver ahead of you uses the left turn signal it means “you can pass”. I have rarely seen a national driver use the turn signal to make left turn. Be aware that most rural highways (except cuotos) do not have shoulders. Don’t drive under the influence- in recent years all agencies of Mexican police are enforcing driving while intoxicated laws. Don’t be upset to see a military/police road block: as long as you aren’t carrying anything illegal, like switchblades or illicit drugs, you’ll be fine.
Lastly, the issue of whether or not to bribe (pay la mordida) an officer. This situation is hotly debated and you should do what your conscience tells you. Personally, when I’m driving alone and get pulled over for just cause, I will slip $500 pesos under my driver’s license to not have the hassle of a ticket. If I have not violated a law, I’ll refuse to pay and drive off. I have never been pulled over when I have someone else in the car with me, only when I’m alone.
While all of these tips might seem scary, it’s really just common sense. Driving solo in Mexico is a wonderful way to enjoy the diverse scenery, check out charming villages while having a safe journey. I’ve been driving solo in Mexico for 25 years and have had many great adventures but no problems out of the ordinary. I highly recommend driving as the best way to embrace the culture.
“Take life with a pinch of salt, a shot of tequila and a wedge of lime.” —John Walter Bratton
