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Mexico City Travel Checklist

Mexico City Travel Checklist

Mexico City Mexico Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Overview

A structured timeline helps manage pre-travel tasks, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Prepare in Advance for Peace of Mind

Timely preparations contribute to a calm and enjoyable travel experience.

3M

Three Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research any visa requirements.

Flights & Stays

Reserve international flights and accommodation, especially for peak season.

Health & Cover

Talk to a physician about immunizations. Obtain comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).

1M

One Month Before

Confirmations

Confirm all bookings: flights, hotel, tours.

Connectivity

Arrange local SIM or international roaming plans.

Financials

Inform your bank. Plan currency exchange or ATM usage.

1W

One Week Before

Packing

Pack according to climate and activities. Consider Eagle Creek organizers.

Documents

Make digital and physical copies of passport, visa, FMM, insurance.

Home Affairs

Secure your home, pause mail/deliveries, notify trusted contacts.

Required Advance Bookings

attractions and services often require reservations far in advance.

Secure Your Spot

  • Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) tickets are essential.
  • Ballet Folklórico de México for cultural performances.
  • Popular upscale restaurants for evening meals.
  • Teotihuacan hot air balloon trips for unique views.

Pre-Trip Research Advice

Inform yourself about Mexico City's aspects to enhance your experience.

Knowledge is Preparation

  • Investigate neighborhoods and attractions.
  • Understand options for local travel.
  • Review current safety information.
  • Explore social customs and local cuisine.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure Your Residence

  • Lock all windows and doors.
  • Use timers for lights.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Turn off main water supply if leaving for long.

Manage Mail and Deliveries

  • Pause newspaper and mail deliveries.
  • Arrange for packages to be held or collected.
  • Cancel any scheduled services (e.g., cleaning).
  • Disable any unnecessary alarms.

Trusted Contacts & Care

  • Inform a trusted friend or neighbor of your absence.
  • Leave a spare with your contact in an emergency.
  • Arrange pet care or house-sitting.
  • Provide your contact with your itinerary.

Important Note

Booking popular attractions well in advance is highly recommended so you're not disappointed, especially during peak travel seasons.

Arrival Checklist

These initial steps ensure a smooth start to your Mexico City adventure.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration Process

    Provide your passport and FMM card. Verify your passport receives a stamp with the authorized length of stay.

  • 2
    Customs Declaration

    Declare any goods as required by Mexican customs regulations.

  • 3
    Airport Transportation

    Utilize authorized airport taxis, ride-sharing apps, or pre-booked transfers for your journey.

Initial Orientation & Essentials

  • Hotel & Surroundings

    Locate your lodging and understand your immediate neighborhood.

  • Local SIM Card

    Obtain a local SIM card if not already arranged for continuous connectivity.

  • Mobility Card

    Purchase a Mobility Card for convenient public transport access.

Currency and Initial Purchases

Initial Cash Exchange

Exchange a little cash at the airport for immediate needs.

Airport exchange rates are generally less favorable.

ATM Usage Strategy

Use an ATM in the city for better exchange rates than at the airport.

Withdraw larger amounts to minimize transaction fees.

Essential Purchases

Buy bottled water upon arrival, as tap water is not potable.

Acquire some snacks for immediate hunger.

Quick Tip

Consider in advance-booking your airport transfer to your accommodation for a seamless arrival experience, especially after a long flight.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-no-cost journey home from Mexico City.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • Plan for souvenir purchases throughout your trip, not just at the end.
  • If shipping items, use reputable international courier services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS.
  • Be aware of customs regulations and duties for your home country on shipped goods.
  • Consider packing fragile items carefully in your carry-on if possible.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Mexico does not usually provide VAT (IVA) refunds for tourists.
  • This varies from some other countries' policies.
  • Factor this into your budgeting for purchases.
  • Keep receipts for your own records.

Pre-Departure Timing

Give yourself plenty of time for airport procedures to avoid stress.

Airport Arrival Recommendations

  • For international flights (MEX):3 hours prior to departure
  • For domestic flights (MEX):TWO hours ahead of time to departure
  • Consider traffic to the airport:Allow extra time
  • Peak travel days:Arrive even earlier

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight details and check-in online if possible.
  • Pack carefully, especially if carrying fragile souvenirs in checked luggage.
  • Ensure you have the departure portion of your FMM card ready.
  • Arrange transportation to the airport, considering morning traffic.

Final Reminder

Always double-check airline regulations for luggage weight and dimensions to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

A calm departure reflects a well-planned journey.