Preparing for Your Winter Road Trip into Mexico.

A road trip into Mexico during the winter months will chase away those seasonal blues. Depending on where you plan to go, the months of December to May are filled with sunshine, warm temperatures and cool nights. Plus, you cannot go wrong celebrating the traditional holidays and fiestas with our neighbors to the south. 

Since you will be driving across the border of the United States and into a foreign country, there is some important information you need to know to make sure your trip is safe and stress-free. Follow these tips and suggestions from the friendly folks at Sanborn’s Mexico Car Insurance. They’ve been in the business of helping Americans drive into Mexico since 1948.

First and foremost, to drive into Mexico you’ll need Mexican auto insurance. This is the law. Your U.S. car insurance will not work in Mexico. The good news is you can purchase the necessary coverage in advance and online, so it’s one less thing to worry about as you cross the border.

Why Take a Trip to Mexico in the Winter?

Winter months in Mexico tend to be more comfortable with less humidity and milder temperatures than other travel destinations. If you aren’t feeling the heat of summer but crave more than the chill of winter, this will be a good option. You will still have plenty of beaches, shopping and great food to enjoy.

If you haven’t already made up your mind about where to go and what to do in this vibrant and colorful country over the holidays and winter months, here are a few suggestions:

Valle de Guadalupe

This is the perfect romantic spot to sit in front of a fire under the stars at night and sample some of Mexico’s most acclaimed wines. This area filled with rustic retreats is becoming more popular with vino enthusiasts from around the world, so reserve a spot at Valle de Guadalupe now and experience a variety of vineyards and other destinations.

Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula encompasses many of Mexico’s crown jewels for tourists, including Cancun, Cozumel, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Because the weather is not quite as hot in the winter months, climbing the ruins at various sites, hanging out at white-sand beaches and making your way around historic downtowns is easier.

San Miguel de Allende

This charming and historic town offers visitors a glimpse into the colorful streets, amazing architecture and fiesta-loving locals everybody dreams about when visiting Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been called one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial cities.

These are just a small handful of the wondrous destinations awaiting the winter road-tripper in Mexico, so find your perfect destination and get ready to hit the road. Before you go, here are some important things to know about driving across the border into Mexico.

What You Need to Drive in Mexico

First on the list is Mexican car insurance. Your American car insurance will not work in Mexico. Fortunately, you can find cheap auto coverage online before you leave. One less thing to worry about when crossing into a foreign country. You’ll also need these items:

·       Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP): This is not necessary if you plan to drive into and remain in the Mexico free zone. Everybody else will need to acquire a TIP. The TIP is purchased from Banjercito, a military back. You can purchase this online prior to your trip, in most cases. If you are not able to purchase your TIP online, the Banjercito will have an office at the border crossing.

·       Multiple Immigration Form (FMM): You will need to acquire a “Mexican Tourist Card” or FMM. It’s free for those staying under 7 days and approximately $35 for those staying longer. This can also be acquired online to avoid waiting in long lines

Don’t forget to bring your passport!

Tips for Winter Driving in Mexico

Most people who drive in Mexico will come away with nothing more than great memories of fun and fiestas. However, as when traveling in any foreign country, there are some tips for driving in Mexico to help you avoid trouble.

·       Plan your route and drive during the day. Since border crossings can take a while, start early.

·       If you must stop for gas, you’ll likely need pesos. It’s a good idea to change your currency at the border.

·       Use the toll roads when available. You can buy a toll pass ahead of time online.

·       Speed limits are in kilometers per hour, not miles.

·       If you are stopped by the police, remove your sunglasses, be polite and don’t offer a bribe.

If you are involved in an accident:

If you are involved in an accident (even one that appears staged) while driving in Mexico, contact your insurance company yourself immediately. Don’t let someone else have your documents and/or call for you.

·       Do not leave the scene until an adjuster arrives.

·       Do not discuss the accident, admit liability or talk about who is at fault.

·       Do not make or receive payment.

In some cases, once you refuse to engage, the other party may flee the scene. Get the license plate number and wait for the adjuster.

Sanborn’s has Affordable Car Insurance

The professional agents at Sanborn’s Mexico Car Insurance have been helping Americans navigate driving into Mexico for more than 75 years. Besides great tips to help drivers stay safe and have a great time, Sanborn’s also offers affordable Mexican Car Insurance that can be purchased online.

You can get a quick quote for car insurance online or call 800-222-0158. There are conveniently-located offices all along the border in California, Arizona and Texas, so regardless of where you cross, you can stop in and get everything you need with an agent’s help. Visit us today!