Drive to Mexico | Mexico Travel Tips for Visa, Pets, Insurance & More

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  • Опубліковано 26 жов 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 108

  • @rickdeason7667
    @rickdeason7667 5 років тому +20

    I'm not calling into question any of the information you are providing in this fine video, however in the nearly 60 years of crossing the Border of Mexico including Calexico, (not El Centro), San Diego, Nogales, Algodones, and other border crossings. I have never been asked for any of that stuff. I have had cursory checks of my vehicle at the border a few times, no big deal. I did always have my 6 month Mexico Visa which I always kept current, (the FMM you refer) and Carried full coverage Mexico Insurance purchased on an annual basis. I only recall being asked for my visa one time, one year and it had expired a few days earlier because I wasn't able to leave Mexico when I had planned. That happened at Guerrero Negro, the Border between the Mexico States of Baja Sur and Baja Norte. The Mexico Customs Agent said no problem and simply took the old one and made a new one and collected the money, took about 10 minutes and I was on my way back. I did have a serious accident, a head on collision one year climbing up the steep, narrow mountain road coming out of Santa Rosalia going towards San Ignacio. No one was seriously injured, both cars were seriously damaged, both were towed to Santa Rosalia. The Police came, examined the scene declared the other driver at fault and filed their report. No other action was taken. The next day I met with the Mexican Insurance Adjuster in Mulege and the whole matter was resolved over Breakfast. I've never had a U.S. Passport, and it has never been an issue crossing the U.S. Mexico Border in either direction. I do carry my U.S. Birth Certificate and have in recent years been asked for it by U.S. Customs when returning to the U.S. Over these many years I've traveled in Mexico from Border to Border and Coast to Coast including Baja. I'm a long time AAA member and both the Mexican Insurance and Pesos can be purchased in select AAA offices in Southern California, which is a great service, and which I know and trust and avail myself of both of those services. Additionally I always carry an Emergency Medical Air Evacuation Insurance Policy, which I don't think you mentioned.......my2cents, rick

    • @jeremywallace5961
      @jeremywallace5961 3 роки тому

      Me too.

    • @johannwolf1
      @johannwolf1 3 роки тому +2

      Nice info. Thanks... curious if the "pandemic" has changed much. So you enter using a US Drivers license? I just spent 6 months (March - Sept 2021) renting cars in southern Mexico and now I want to drive back down... with my own 4x4 and a bunch of supplies. I've never had any issues crossing at TJ or Mexicali for short trips or camping... is there something additional I need if they know I'm going further south? I see people speak of permits for their car including deposits to make sure it leaves the country. I want my car to stay there permanently... under the radar. I don't think this will be a problem in the mountains where I live down there. This has to go off without a hitch as I'll be in a nice overland rig, loaded down with homesteading gear and driving solo. I speak some... but I look like an older guero surfer.... I'm pretty good at playing dumb.

  • @j.carrington11
    @j.carrington11 5 років тому +18

    FMM’s are absolutely required now regardless of your length of stay. If you stay less then 7 days it is free but it is still required.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому +2

      J. Carrington You are correct and flubbed that up in the video. I've made a correction statement to it and thank you for pointing out the new requirement for the FMM.

    • @j.carrington11
      @j.carrington11 5 років тому +2

      Other than that all the other points you made were very good and great info. Love the videos. Keep up the good work!

  • @sviewerx
    @sviewerx 5 років тому +7

    You are truly a treasure on UA-cam! You have one of the best, most practical, informative and beneficial channels for road travelers and van- lifers. No fake or purposefully posted drama, attitude, cuss words, or unnecessary ramblings here on your channel, and that is greatly appreciated! Other channels take note. You present your helpful material in a very concise, organized, tasteful, and professional manner. And you are always so pleasant. Good editing too. Thank you, rock on sister!, and safe travels out there.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому +1

      Rollin Nollin wow what an amazing compliment! Thank you! Truly!

    • @thevibe7415
      @thevibe7415 10 місяців тому

      @@storychasingI watched a ton of these vids and highly agree!
      Do you also know what shuttle service allows you to cross border in 30 minutes?

  • @Pamela-ro8vh
    @Pamela-ro8vh 5 років тому +4

    Wonderful video. Chock full of great info. Thank you, Amber!

  • @timothyhays1817
    @timothyhays1817 5 років тому +4

    Good info. The last time I went to Mexico was in 1986. They didn't ask me for my Drivers license back then.

  • @pnnk-tyip
    @pnnk-tyip 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks my mom and dad are planning on going to Mexico Bcs My dad wants to go see her mom were probably gonna stay for 10 or 30 days or more

  • @TurnItUpWorld
    @TurnItUpWorld 5 років тому +1

    That's really important to have that coverage. I give you props for driving that RV in Mexico. We experienced the driving over there and wow. They're very fast drivers. Great tip on the Pets and good to know. Very informative and helpful. Our first experience driving in an RV was through a few different parts of Alaska. That was incredible. The thrill of home on the road "literally" was refreshing and rewarding. Thanks Amber. Could you take a look at our latest video, as we'd love to hear your thoughts as well.

  • @carolrequena3953
    @carolrequena3953 3 роки тому +1

    Traveling Through Mexico in a few months and this was one of my concerns! Thank you so much for recommending this company! Safe travels

  • @RozyInRialto
    @RozyInRialto 5 років тому +3

    Very well done & informative video

  • @spicycopper2436
    @spicycopper2436 5 років тому +4

    Thank you, this is great information.

  • @jodydetermann6477
    @jodydetermann6477 5 років тому +2

    Thanks Amber! The checklist is great!!

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому

      Jody Determann you're so welcome!

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому

      When are you headed to Mexico? Where?

  • @mikepolo9392
    @mikepolo9392 2 роки тому

    Dang,this is the video I have been looking for a long time

  • @darkmagician8777
    @darkmagician8777 3 роки тому +2

    Omg, this video was very helpful. I’m planning to drive to Mexico to visit my family. However I wasn’t sure if I was okay to drive with American license. Thanks for the information

  • @perry5939
    @perry5939 5 років тому +4

    yay great new video

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому

      Perry thanks! Have you been to Mexico yet in your RV?

    • @perry5939
      @perry5939 5 років тому

      Not yet -- primary goal is lower 48 but i've not ruled out Mexico.

    • @perry5939
      @perry5939 5 років тому

      Make that lower 47 --- I've seen enough of Texas in this thing for a bit!

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому

      Perry lol....yeah...me too! Of course getting stuck in Texas with all the crazy weather can be enough for anybody for a very long time.

  • @jangdigity7567
    @jangdigity7567 3 роки тому +4

    My number 1 fear is getting my truck stolen by the cartel

  • @JohannaEarthlyRamos
    @JohannaEarthlyRamos 3 роки тому

    Thanks so much! Your info is right on time while planning for our upcoming trip 😄👏🏾👏🏾

  • @deadrifter
    @deadrifter 3 роки тому +1

    Do you need to bring an original of the vehicle title?
    Thanks

  • @jeffrey7592
    @jeffrey7592 4 роки тому +1

    Great info and resources, thank you so much.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  4 роки тому

      Jeffrey You're welcome and thanks so much for watching!

  • @1617kinsella
    @1617kinsella 5 років тому +3

    Hey I think you mentioned that you sold the Leisure Way and got the Hymer? Can I ask the reason why? I was really looking at the Leisure Vans for future travels. Thanks for the information in this video. Cheers!!!

    • @JodysJourney
      @JodysJourney 5 років тому +1

      F&T Amber started with a Winnebago Class C. Creativity RV is the one who just recently traded in her Leisure Travel for a Tiffin Wayfarer.

    • @1617kinsella
      @1617kinsella 5 років тому

      Oh ok thanks.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому +2

      F&T way to go on the channel mixup! lol..I'm kidding you. Yes Jody's right. Creativity RV had the Leisure Travel RV and I had a Winnebago Spirit that was 26 foot long. This is what happens sometimes when you get out on the road. You have start in one RV and then quickly realize you might be better suited for something else based on your travel style and your needs.

  • @juliettebaysinger46
    @juliettebaysinger46 4 роки тому +1

    I want to drive to Mexico to study there. Thanks for the information.

  • @joshmiller9350
    @joshmiller9350 3 роки тому +2

    Are you not worried about crime? I was thinking about driving my truck through Mexico, But i was warned not to because of crime.

  • @blsomp2543
    @blsomp2543 3 роки тому +1

    At least for now the FMM is free; i filled it out last month (06/2021)

  • @JS-jh4cy
    @JS-jh4cy 2 роки тому +1

    Take a bath room before you get the highway line up

  • @rebeccagillham5865
    @rebeccagillham5865 5 років тому +1

    Good info, thank you. Some wee construction feedback? Watch how often you repeat yourself, and our modulation is weary.

  • @edwardeplett3231
    @edwardeplett3231 2 роки тому

    Very informative 👍

  • @storychasing
    @storychasing  5 років тому

    ***CORRECTION*** You need an FMM no mater how many days you are in Mexico, it's just free if it's 7 days and under.
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  • @JodysJourney
    @JodysJourney 5 років тому +2

    I’m really only worried about Montezuma’s Revenge so I’d just want to check on my medical coverage. Haha. I have a pretty weak stomach but adore Mexican food.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому +1

      Jody's Journey lol um..yes make sure your medical coverage is good too and Montezuma's revenge wouldn't be great. I did get sick there but it was nurovirus that I actually obtained in the US. Still not fun.

  • @delphisdewaey8225
    @delphisdewaey8225 14 днів тому

    9:04 Hello! A few years ago we were thinking about moving to Mexico, but they didn’t take birds, and we have a Goffin Cockatoo. I recently checked the pet requirements and now it says they are accepting birds. Do you know of anyone who has brought their parrot to Mexico and how was the process? I checked CITES and Goffin Cockatoos are not native to Mexico. And we would be driving along with our 2 small dogs.

  • @theShamrockShepherdWagon
    @theShamrockShepherdWagon 5 років тому +2

    great video, Amber

  • @alliejr
    @alliejr 5 років тому +2

    Excellent!!!

  • @soyKamyAlexandra
    @soyKamyAlexandra 2 роки тому

    Im traveling soon gotta take few flights then Family will pick me up in San Diego so how do I get the Fmm

  • @xrpjr2126
    @xrpjr2126 Рік тому

    So what do I do to print out the fmm? if we're driving into Mexico with our own vehicle is that all we need besides passport cards and id? Thank you

  • @kathybitzan7473
    @kathybitzan7473 5 років тому +9

    I got the enhanced Drivers License here in WA state so I got go across either border. I don't know if all states offer this. So it was like 78.00 compared to over 120.00 for a passport.

    • @stefanhernandez1687
      @stefanhernandez1687 2 роки тому

      Can you walk across with just an enhanced drivers license ? And can you go further in like chihuahua and the smaller towns with just that ?

    • @kathybitzan7473
      @kathybitzan7473 2 роки тому

      @@stefanhernandez1687 you can always cross into Mexico. It's getting back. Yes you can come back on enhanced DL. Travel in Mexico is not advised right now. Alcodones yes, but San Luis had some shooting and warned travelers not to cross. I'm not sure about Texas or CA. I'm in AZ now.

  • @gloriadelarosa6422
    @gloriadelarosa6422 4 роки тому +1

    When I cross through different states driving in Mexico will I need a passport?

  • @mctransportation9831
    @mctransportation9831 2 роки тому

    Do you spend 6 months at a time down there?

  • @rickybreaux2607
    @rickybreaux2607 5 років тому

    Thanks for the info!!

  • @j.carrington11
    @j.carrington11 5 років тому +2

    U.S. and Canadian citizens over the age of two, without a Mexican temporary or permanent resident card, need to obtain an FMM tourist permit when entering Mexico. Mexican law requires that tourists from the U.S. and Canada have an FMM tourist permit for any trip into Baja. You may encounter INM checkpoints along the peninsula where they will ask to see your passport and FMM. If you get into an accident in Mexico and you don’t have an FMM tourist permit, you are not considered to be in accordance with Mexican law, and therefore your Mexican auto insurance can be rendered invalid. Each individual must have their own FMM, including children ages two
    As of September 2015, there is no longer a “free zone” and every person entering Baja, regardless of destination or duration of trip needs to obtain an FMM. If you are only going to be in Mexico for seven days or less, you can get a free FMM, but you still need to stop at the border to fill out the paperwork to obtain the permit.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому

      J. Carrington You are correct and flubbed that up in the video. I've made a correction statement to it and thank you for pointing out the new requirement for the FMM.

  • @ThirdEyeAwake
    @ThirdEyeAwake 5 років тому

    Ok wow I never even considered most of these things!!!! Guess I need to do a little more work before heading south.

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  4 роки тому

      😀 Thanks for watching and commenting !

  • @bananapatch9118
    @bananapatch9118 3 роки тому

    We’ll be bringing 5 dogs, to Queretaro. We hear from the border until 200 miles south, to just keep driving and not stop….that once we get that far everything is fine for the most part. Was that your experience ? Thx !

  • @tongalizia3175
    @tongalizia3175 2 роки тому

    Excellent,,excellent,,excellent,,,,,, what’s your RV size

  • @alexanderwong498
    @alexanderwong498 2 роки тому

    Very detailed video! I have a question if I may ask regarding the registration for the vehicle. If I’m driving my mom’s car and my name is not in the title or registration, can I still use it in Mexico even if I have Mexican insurance? Just wondering if the car I’m driving to Mexico has to have my name on the registration or title.

    • @PeaceNinja007
      @PeaceNinja007 2 роки тому

      Did you ever get your question answered?? I’m taking a rental down there in a couple days.

  • @ourtwenties
    @ourtwenties 3 роки тому

    how can I find a caravan that I can join for my upcoming trip from Phoenix to PV?

  • @liz-iy6zm
    @liz-iy6zm 5 років тому +1

    how can I get the FMM in Mexico? crossing at Laredo.
    I assumed I could drive there with my regular WA drivers license. is this an issue??

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому +1

      Look in the description box of the video for the link to my blog and you'll see a checklist on how to do this with links to everything you need. Have fun!

    • @liz-iy6zm
      @liz-iy6zm 5 років тому +2

      @@storychasing crossed at Columbia - no crowds, got the FMM and TPP and money changed, copies made. all good!!

  • @thuymientran6676
    @thuymientran6676 3 роки тому

    Do you sleep overnight in your RV in Mexico, how safe did you feel I when you do, and where would you park to spend the night in your RV when traveling as a woman traveling solo in Mexico?

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  2 роки тому

      I did and while I felt safe, I feel safer with groups of people, mostly in case I broke down somewhere.

  • @ginacardarella
    @ginacardarella Рік тому

    What about taking a website? A bearded dragon across

  • @victorbruce3315
    @victorbruce3315 4 роки тому

    Great video

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  4 роки тому

      Victor Bruce Thanks so much! ☺️

  • @lindybright1938
    @lindybright1938 6 місяців тому

    Id be very uncomfortable to have my car title with me in Mexico. I will not be doing that. I would say the registration would suffice, especially for people who haven't paid off their cars.

  • @miraclemiracle4670
    @miraclemiracle4670 2 роки тому

    Is vaccine still required to travel to Mexico?

  • @christinehurd
    @christinehurd 5 років тому

    Nice video.

  • @tarac5137
    @tarac5137 5 років тому +1

    Haha, dating myself as well, I remember traveling to Mexico and Canada with a driver’s license, or a birth certificate if you were under 16. My biggest concern would be getting the dog back into the US, be sure to check what the US guidelines are. Additional things I have learned from other channels is you can’t bring any fresh produce (and maybe meat / dairy? ) and if you have a loan on your vehicle (you do not technically own it / do not have the title) be sure to have a letter from your lender (and it must include all countries you plan to visit if you are moving onward to Central America). Best all inclusive video I have seen on the topic, thanks for sharing! 🌴

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому +1

      Tara Charney thank you for those extra tips too! lol....yeah I totally dated myself. haha. I did bring in produce, no meat, but they didn't say anything.

    • @tarac5137
      @tarac5137 5 років тому

      With age comes wisdom! 😀 Border crossing may be slightly different Baja and the main part of Mexico.

  • @seanoleary1979
    @seanoleary1979 4 роки тому +1

    Almost all states that border either Canada or Mexico offer Enhanced Driver's Licenses which are used the same way Passports are used for Canada, Mexico and some Islands in the Caribbean. PLEASE be sure to use the foil-wrapped packet the DMV gives you to place your Enhanced Driver's License in your wallet as the Enhanced Driver's Licenses have chips in side of them which (of course) get read by people walking around with chip readers who have bad intentions (identity theft). These Enhanced Driver's License chips contain ALL your information that you put on your application to get it - so, USE THE LITTLE FOIL ENVELOPE they give you!

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  4 роки тому

      Van's Best Friend Thanks!

    • @TRUMPSUCKS45
      @TRUMPSUCKS45 Рік тому

      I believe Enhanced DL are only available in 5 states so far. We were told by Border agent they aren't available for us yet in our state.

  • @campcooking1690
    @campcooking1690 2 роки тому

    how do you afford to live in your rv if you quit your job that is literally my dream

  • @precisiont5188
    @precisiont5188 3 роки тому

    What if I have dual citizenship?

  • @ramcysbeard3707
    @ramcysbeard3707 3 роки тому

    Am an American citizen , can i travel by car to mexico and came back to united states with only driver's license

    • @mikedaggett17
      @mikedaggett17 2 роки тому

      Your license and also the insurance

  • @precisiont5188
    @precisiont5188 3 роки тому

    So if I don't want to vaccinate my cats I can't bring them?

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  3 роки тому

      PrecisionT 😊 You have to follow their guidelines for entry or else you won't be able to bring them. It might be worth talking to them if you're against vaccinating.

  • @StinkySobaccos
    @StinkySobaccos 5 років тому

    Some of the links provided are not working. :-(

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  5 років тому

      Oh no. Which link and I’ll fix it?

  • @akherali9953
    @akherali9953 Рік тому

    Hi

  • @schrendae8965
    @schrendae8965 4 роки тому

    Why print two copies of your FMM?

    • @storychasing
      @storychasing  4 роки тому +1

      Schrenda E 😀 One to give to them and one to keep as backup.

  • @cynthiagisell6094
    @cynthiagisell6094 4 роки тому

    Is had a cat lady?

  • @LVLouisCyphre
    @LVLouisCyphre 3 роки тому +1

    I grew up 13 miles from the San Ysidro Int'l Border. I got my fill growing up near Mexico as I'd hop across the border to get drunk while I was in high school; Mexican bars will serve to anybody who can slap the money on the bar. The place is a cesspool. I have no desire to venture into Mexico. I also don't travel anywhere that I can't carry firearms as I'm a CCW instructor and legal to carry in most of the USA with my collection of licenses and permits that I keep current. You also can get a permit to possess from the Mexican Consulate. It's a pain to get, but can be done. A friend of mine who worked for a law firm in Texas and had to appear in court in jurisdictions along the Rio Grande told me how dangerous Mexico is. Enter or go near Mexico at your own risk. It's a dangerous cesspool.

    • @thuymientran6676
      @thuymientran6676 3 роки тому

      Wow! So are you implying that Mexico is not recommended for a solo woman To RV or campervan into Mexico, overland from San Diego to Mazatlan, to be specific?

  • @precisiont5188
    @precisiont5188 3 роки тому

    Cats need rabbies vaccinations?