Tijuana Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Preparation Timeline

Strategic steps for a smooth journey.

Three Months Before

Start early for items.

1

Passport Validity

Verify passport validity

Confirm your passport is valid for your Mexico stay.

Plan renewals

Processing times for renewals can vary.

Longer stays

Passports typically require validity for the duration of stay.

2

Visa Requirements

Check nationality requirements

Research a special visa needs for your nationality.

Short tourist stays

Many visitors to Tijuana do not need a visa.

Confirm status

Confirming your status is a good step.

3

Medical Appointments

Research providers

Research clinics and physicians if planning medical tourism.

Book in advance

Book major appointments to secure preferred dates and providers.

Travel Insurance

Look into comprehensive travel insurance policies and purchase one.

One Month Before

bookings plus study.

Travel & Accommodations

Secure your flight tickets and hotel or vacation rental.
Start outlining your daily activities and potential day trips.
Arrange Mexican auto insurance when operating a vehicle a vehicle across the border.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

One Week Before

Final checks for departure.

Packing & Documents

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essential items.
Organize all essential documents.
Get offline maps and translation apps.
Purchase CBX tickets if traveling by air via Tijuana airport.

Important Reminder

Keep digital and physical copies of your FMM (tourist card) and entry stamp.

FMM Photo

Take photos of your FMM.
Photograph your entry stamp.
Do this immediately after receiving them.
This digital backup can be useful if the physical document is lost.

Currency & Connectivity

Get some Mexican Pesos (MXN) or small USD bills.
Purchase a local SIM card if connectivity is needed.
Install ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi).
Arrange mail hold if gone for an extended period.

Pet & Home Arrangements

Arrange pet or house sitting if applicable.
Confirm someone will look after your home.
Ensure pet care is set before departure.
Inform neighbors if you will be away.

Essential Tip

Take photos of your FMM (tourist card) and the entry stamp immediately after receiving them. This digital backup can be useful if the physical document is lost.

Arrival Checklist

Initial steps after landing.

First Steps

1
Immigration & FMM
Clear immigration, obtaining your TOURIST card (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) or confirming airline provision.
2
Currency Exchange
Withdraw MXN from a reputable bank ATM or exchange currency at a trusted casa de cambio.
3
SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card from a mobile provider's official store or an OXXO convenience store, if connectivity is needed.

Getting Settled

Transportation to Accommodation
Take an authorized airport taxi (if flying to TIJ), a ride-share (Uber/Didi), or a pre-arranged shuttle.
Neighborhood Orientation
Once at your lodging, familiarize yourself with your neighborhood; locate nearby services.
Organize Your Kit
For efficient packing and organization, consider products from Eagle Creek.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Customs

Purchase last-minute souvenirs, being mindful of customs limits.

Mexico does not offer VAT refunds for tourists on general purchases.

Pre-departure Timing

Allow ample time for border crossing. Check real-time border wait times.

Factor in potential delays, especially during peak hours or holidays.

Return Trip Documents

Confirm your flights or bus schedules.

Your stamped FMM portion must be surrendered upon departure.

Departure Wisdom

Allow ample time for border crossing. Check real-time border queue times before heading to the border, especially for northbound crossings back into the U.S. Factor in potential delays, notably during peak hours or holidays.