Travel Reminders for Snowbirds Heading to Mexico

The great migration has begun.

It happens nearly every year at the same time. Beginning in September, Northern residents flock to Southern locales to escape harsh winters or enjoy warmer weather.

Many “snowbirds” head to Mexico. Yet before you take off, review these travel reminders to ensure a more enjoyable trip.

Travel Reminders

• Get a cell phone plan for Mexico. Snowbird mobile phone plans can include adding an international plan to your existing phone; purchasing a separate mobile prepaid phone while in Mexico; purchasing a SIM card for Mexico to use in your existing phone, or using a long-distance calling card for lower long-distance prices.
• Know Mexico’s 911 (Dial ‘911’ for an emergency, ‘060’ for police, ‘065’ for ambulance, ‘068’ for fire, ‘078’ for Green Angels roadside assistance)
• Know about Mexico’s Green Angels roadside assistance service (Note: all Mexpro’s car insurance policies include MexVisit® roadside assistance)
• Get a Mexico tourist visa
• Share your travel plans with a trusted friend or family member.
• Have someone check on your summer residence occasionally.
• Consider using smart light switches, which allow you to control the lights in your home from your cell phone. Thieves look for timed lights, and random light patterns will give the appearance that you are home.
• Turn off water, including the water supply to your washing machine and dishwasher. Hoses can break while you’re away.
• Cancel newspapers and have mail stopped or forwarded.
• Photocopy your travel and personal documents. Take a copy with you and share a copy with your trusted friend or family member.
• Get any required immunizations or boosters.
• Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.
• Buy travel insurance.

Car Insurance

If you are driving across the border into Mexico you will need an auto insurance policy written by a Mexico-based insurance company. U.S. policies will not be honored, nor will they cover any accidents or breakdowns in Mexico. Mexico car insurance is required for driving on Mexico highways.

Travel Insurance

Before heading off on your trip, be sure to purchase travel insurance. A travel insurance policy can protect your trip in many ways. No matter what length of time you will be visiting Mexico – a day, a week, a month – accidents and illnesses happen. Hospital bills can add up quickly, especially if your U.S. - or Canada-based insurance company does not cover international medical charges.

Travel insurance can help with:

• Doctor and hospital expenses
• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption should you have to return home for a covered reason
• Emergency medical assistance and transportation
• Travel medical evacuation
• Infectious diseases, including Covid-19

Mexpro offers a convenient, easy way to purchase all the insurance you need for your next trip south of the border. Both our Mexico Car Insurance policies and our Travel Insurance can be purchased online. The process is simple – answer a few questions and you will be given a few policy options based on your age, health situation, and trip duration.

Once you have a policy in place, that’s it. You will have 24/7 medical assistance support in the event of an emergency. You’ll also have the assurance that your trip and, if applicable, your car will be protected.

Use these travel reminders to make your trip to Mexico easier and more relaxing, knowing you’re safe to fly away, snowbird!