Exploring Mexico: Truck Camper Towing Adventure

RV camping in Mexico can be an amazing adventure, but there are some things to keep in mind before you go. Here's an overview of the key considerations for taking your RV into Mexico, including insurance, permits, border procedures, and driving tips.

Insurance and Permits

Mexican auto insurance is a must since your current policy likely doesn't cover liability in Mexico. You can buy Mexican insurance online before your trip. Also, you'll need a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) and a Tourist Permit (FMM) when crossing the border. The TIP allows non-Mexican citizens to bring vehicles into the country and costs around $51 USD, plus a deposit depending on your vehicle's age. The FMM is a visitor permit and costs around $25 USD per person. Make sure to obtain these permits at the border, as getting them online can be complicated.

Border Considerations

When bringing your RV into Mexico, there are a few border considerations to keep in mind. For pets, you'll need proof of rabies vaccinations, and your pet may be inspected by border officials. Certain items are prohibited from entering Mexico, so check the official sources for details. If your vehicle is financed or leased, you'll need a letter of authorization from the finance company. Additionally, there are weight restrictions for vehicles that are not motorhomes entering mainland Mexico—the GVWR can't exceed 7,716 pounds.

Driving in Mexico

Driving in Mexico requires extra caution. Avoid driving at night due to narrow roads, animals on the road, and potential obstacles like broken-down vehicles. Watch out for topes, large speed bumps that may not be marked or signed. If you're pulled over by the police, remember that bribes are illegal—ask for a copy of the ticket or to go to the police station instead.

RV Camping in Mexico

When RV camping in Mexico, join local Facebook groups to get recommendations for campgrounds, beaches, fuel, and local attractions. Bring pesos, keep your gas tank full, avoid drinking tap water, and try to speak Spanish—the locals will appreciate your effort.

Vehicle permits and insurance

Vehicle permits are not required for Baja, northern Sonora State, and Quintana Roo. However, if you are planning to travel to mainland Mexico, you will need to obtain a permit. The procedure for taking your RV into mainland Mexico can be intimidating for first-timers, but the first time is usually the most daunting.

The rules regarding vehicles, pets, and importation in general are fluid, and new requirements may be added. It is important to stay updated with the latest information.

You will need to ensure any vehicles are in your name, and that anyone listed on the registration is traveling with you. If the vehicle is leased or in a company name (even your own), you need a notarized letter of permission (preferably in Spanish) to take it into Mexico. The same may be true if anyone listed on the registration is not traveling with you. Also, ensure you have pre-purchased Mexican auto insurance with a minimum $500,000 liability.

It is recommended to take the originals of any documents that may be requested, including birth certificates and marriage certificates. You will definitely need your passport, driver’s license, a credit card, and original registrations for all vehicles, trailers, and toys. Make two copies of each piece of documentation and have them with you. Scanning all documentation and emailing them to yourself so you can readily access them online is also advisable.

You will be required to pay a deposit of $200-$400, depending on the vehicle’s age, in cash or by credit card on each vehicle not classified as an RV. This includes pickups, towed cars, and motorcycles over 150 cc. There are two classifications of permits: a "Casa Rodante" or Rolling Homes (RV) permit and a normal vehicle permit. Each traveler may have one of each type.

For example, if you have a Class A with a tow car, you will have one Casa Rodante permit and one vehicle permit. If you have a fifth wheel, you will also need a vehicle permit on the towing truck and a Casa Rodante on the trailer. If you have a Class A, B, or C without a tow car, you will need a single Casa Rodante permit.

You may attach up to three items to any permit. These include cargo and utility trailers, motorcycles under 150 cc, and ATVs under 350 cc. Everything else requires its own permit. Depending on what is added to a Casa Rodante permit, it may only be valid for 180 days instead of 10 years. All permits must be canceled before expiry. The 10-year Casa Rodante permit is designed to enable you to store an RV in Mexico for a few seasons. Unless you intend to do that, it is advised to cancel it every time you leave Mexico unless you live close to the border. If you sell the RV or write it off, you will not be allowed to take another RV into Mexico until the old permit is canceled.

Vehicle permits are handled by the Mexican bank, Banjercito. This means that the permit offices are not usually a part of the customs procedure when crossing the border itself. It is recommended to obtain a copy of the book "Mexican Camping" by Mike and Terri Church, which has detailed information on each crossing.

Upon arriving at the permit center, you must initially go into the trailer closest to the parking lot and obtain your tourist card. Next, walk to the Banjercito windows, pay for your tourist card, and obtain your vehicle permit. Take all your original documentation and copies with you. If you have to pay a vehicle deposit, you must do so with U.S. cash or a credit card. You will be rebated in the same way when you exit Mexico. Do not lose any receipts they give you. You will be issued one or both types of permits, complete with a hologram to affix to your windshield. Do not throw out the piece of paper they are attached to; you will be asked for it when you exit Mexico. You will pay around $45 for each tourist card and each permit.

There are some gray areas, notably truck campers, which may be classified either as trucks carrying cargo or as integrated RVs. Camper vans are another gray area.

When you exit Mexico, you must return to a Banjercito center (not necessarily the same one) and cancel your permit. You will be issued a receipt, which you will need to keep as proof that the vehicle left Mexico. Remember that if you do not cancel a permit, you may not be allowed to bring a vehicle into Mexico in the future.

When it comes to insurance, your current policy may cover physical damage, but it won’t cover liability to others while in Mexico. This means that you must purchase a separate policy when you bring your vehicle and/or RV into Mexico. Mexican auto insurance is relatively inexpensive, and you can buy it online before you cross the border. Here are some recommended insurance companies: BajaBound, Lewis & Lewis, and MexPro.

Border crossings

The first thing to be aware of when crossing the border into Mexico is that the process takes time. It can take up to four hours to clear the border, but an hour is more usual. The time taken depends on many factors, such as traffic levels, pet inspections, or border agents wanting to go over your vehicle to ensure you aren't carrying illegal items.

You will need to choose the correct lane for your needs, as there are separate lanes for people who have items to declare and those who don't.

You will be asked to hand over the passports of all vehicle occupants and answer the following questions:

• Who else is in the vehicle besides you?
• Do you have pets? If so, do you have their clearance certificate?
• Where are you going?
• How long do you plan to remain in Mexico?
• Are you carrying any firearms or weapons?

Mexico land border entry ports are currently operating a bit slower than usual due to the pandemic. Mexico does not require proof of a Covid vaccine nor impose any other legal restrictions on passengers or vehicles entering Mexico by land from the US. However, the US is currently requiring all travelers coming across the Mexico border to be fully vaccinated, with proof showing the vaccine was from an approved brand.

The average wait time to clear the Mexico border is 60 minutes. However, crossings away from major highways or cities take much less time. Expect it to take longer if you have pets that need to have a health examination for border clearance.

The best time to cross the border into Mexico in your RV at any of the 38 official US-Mexico border crossings is very early in the morning on weekdays.

Border Crossing Recommendations

The recommended border crossing to use to avoid issues is Nogales.

Border Crossing Documents

The following documents are required to cross the border into Mexico:

• Proof of US citizenship (a valid US passport book or passport card that will not expire during your stay)
• Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) for RV and tow vehicle (unless you are taking your vehicle to locations within the Mexico Free Zone)
• Tourist Permit (FMM)
• Registration and insurance for your RV and any tow vehicle or toad
• Mexican auto insurance policy for your RV
• Explanation of your travel plans
• Health inspection for pets

Items You Can Bring into Mexico

You can bring the following items into Mexico in your RV:

• Clothing, footwear, and toiletries for all occupants
• Two cameras or video recorders
• Personal computer or tablet, up to 3 cell phones, printer, projector, GPS system, chargers and accessories
• Baby travel accessories, like strollers and baby-walkers
• Entertainment items such as portable radios, DVD player, laser discs, etc
• Books, magazines, and printed documents
• Up to five toys or video games
• Two musical instruments with accessories
• Medical equipment and medications (must show a prescription for psychotropic drugs)
• Up to three cats or dogs with accessories if they have an import certificate

All the items above are duty-free. Other merchandise is acceptable up to the allowed exemption of $300 per person. Any items worth more than $300 will need to be declared to the border agents, and you will need to take your RV through the Declaration Lane at the border crossing.

Mexico allows a wide array of food items to cross their border, as long as it is in quantities for the RV occupant’s personal consumption and there’s no danger of introducing diseases or pests. All food items are subject to agent inspection.

Items You Cannot Bring into Mexico

Mexico prohibits certain items from crossing its borders to prevent diseases. These include:

• Vegetable plants and seeds
• Fresh meat, cheese, fruits, and vegetables
• Untanned leather or any animal-part products
• Green coffee and tobacco
• Live turtles or fish
• Live, raw or dried crustaceans

If you have any of the above items in your vehicle at the time of crossing, you must declare it to the border agents. Fines of $50-$1,000 may result from failing to report agricultural items.

Safety and security

The safety and security of your trip to Mexico with a truck camper depend on several factors, including your chosen route, destinations, and adherence to local laws and customs. Here are some essential considerations for a safe and secure journey:

• Border Crossing: When crossing the border, ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including passports, vehicle registrations, driver's licenses, and proof of insurance. Some border crossings, such as El Paso, Laredo, and La Paz, have been known to enforce stricter interpretations of Mexican law regarding vehicle weight and cargo capacity. To avoid potential issues, it is recommended to obtain your permit online ahead of time or use alternative crossings like Nogales.
• Vehicle Requirements: Understand the requirements for bringing a foreign-plated vehicle into Mexico. This includes obtaining a vehicle permit, which is not required for Baja, northern Sonora State, and Quintana Roo. Be aware of the restrictions for different types of vehicles, such as trucks, motorhomes, and trailers.
• Insurance: Mexican insurance is mandatory, and your US or Canadian insurance is not valid in Mexico. Purchase insurance before crossing the border, and ensure it covers both collision and liability. Reliable insurance companies include Don Smith, San Xavier, Lewis & Lewis, and Sanborns.
• Driving in Mexico: Mexican roads have unique characteristics, such as speed bumps ("topes"), one-way streets, and low hanging trees or power lines. Drive with caution and be prepared for unexpected obstacles. Use toll roads ("cuotas"), for faster and safer travel, as they are usually up to US interstate standards.
• Checkpoints and Police Interactions: Checkpoints are common in Mexico, but they are typically looking for drug runners, not RVs. If you are pulled over by the police, remain calm and polite. Bribery, or "mordida," is illegal, but it is still common for municipal and transit police to solicit bribes. If you suspect a shake-down, offer to follow the officer to the police station to pay the fine or pretend you don't speak Spanish.
• Crime and Violence: While media hysteria often portrays Mexico as a dangerous place, the risks are often exaggerated. However, it is essential to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Avoid traveling at night, and don't park overnight on the side of the road. Stay informed about areas to avoid, such as Cuidad Juarez, which is currently considered a war zone.
• RV Parks and Camping: RV parks are generally safe, but it's best to stay in groups and avoid boondocking alone. Be cautious when navigating one-way roads in towns and low-hanging obstacles like trees and power lines.
• Health and Veterinary Care: Ensure your pets have the necessary health certificates and vaccinations before entering Mexico. Carry flea soap and spray, as fleas and ticks can be a problem. Veterinary care is available in Mexico, but facilities may be more primitive than what you are used to.
• Food and Water: Do not drink tap water in Mexico. Bring refillable water containers and fill them at local stores or campsites. Be cautious when eating raw fruits and vegetables, and avoid pork and chicken products when crossing back into the US.
• Money and ATMs: Carry some Mexican pesos with you, and be aware of ATM locations in case you need to withdraw cash. Large supermarkets, including Walmart, are common in Mexico, and you can find most of the items you need.
• Communication and Technology: Cell phones and internet connectivity can be unreliable in certain areas of Mexico. Consider purchasing a Mexican cell phone or a Telcel internet stick for your laptop. Satellite radio and TV services like Sirius and Shaw Satellite work well in Mexico.

Driving in Mexico

There are a few things to keep in mind when driving in Mexico. Firstly, don't drive at night. The roads can be extremely narrow, there may be animals on the road, and the road surface may be covered in rocks or debris, or be broken away. If a car is broken down, there may be no tail lights, and locals sometimes put boulders behind their cars to prevent people from driving into them.

Secondly, watch out for topes, which are large speed bumps that are very common in Mexico. They are not always painted or indicated with a sign, and locals sometimes install topes themselves, so they may be an irregular height or the same colour as the road.

Finally, if you are pulled over by the police, remember that bribes or "mordidas" are illegal. Always ask for a copy of the ticket or to go to the police station to pay the fine directly.

Border Considerations

There are a few things to keep in mind when crossing the border into Mexico. Firstly, make sure you have Mexican auto insurance, as your current policy may cover physical damage but won't cover liability to others while in Mexico. Secondly, obtain a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP), which is required for tourists and temporary residents. The TIP is good for 180 days or the same duration as a tourist visa, and costs around $51 USD. On top of this, you pay a deposit of $200-$400 USD depending on the age of your vehicle, which you get back when you leave Mexico.

If you are staying inside the "free zone", which includes the entire Baja peninsula and a large portion of Sonora, you don't need a TIP.

You will also need to obtain a tourist permit or FMM, which costs around $25 USD per person. Make sure you don't lose this, as you will need to return it to the border official when you leave the country.

If you are bringing pets, as of December 2019, you no longer need to provide a health certificate for your dog, but you do need to provide proof of rabies vaccinations, and a border official may want to inspect your pets.

There are certain items that you cannot bring into Mexico, so make sure you are familiar with the restrictions to avoid costly fines, being turned away, or thrown in jail.

If your vehicle is financed or leased, make sure you have permission from the finance company, as the border requires you to have a letter of authorization, which can take up to 3 weeks to obtain.

There is also a weight limit for vehicles that are not motorhomes entering mainland Mexico. The GVWR cannot be more than 7,716 pounds (3.5 tons).

RV Camping in Mexico

When RV camping in Mexico, it's a good idea to join a Facebook group for the area you want to explore and ask for recommendations on campgrounds, beaches, fuel, and food.

Remember to bring pesos, keep your gas tank full, don't drink the water, and try to speak Spanish, as the locals really appreciate it.

RV camping in Mexico

Border Crossing:

When crossing the US-Mexico border with an RV, it is important to allow plenty of time for the necessary procedures. It is recommended to cross in the early morning to avoid rushing and to ensure you don't have to drive after dark, which is not advisable. If you are travelling within the border zone or the free trade zone, there are no special procedures, but if you plan to venture beyond these areas, you will need to follow specific steps for obtaining the required permits and documentation.

Documents:

Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including a tourist card (obtainable at the border), a valid vehicle registration certificate in the driver's name, a valid driver's license, an international credit card in the driver's name, and valid Mexican insurance. Mexican insurance is mandatory, and you should research reputable companies offering this.

Safety:

Use common sense and follow general safety guidelines. Avoid spending too much time in border towns, don't travel at night, and refrain from displaying valuables that might attract unwanted attention. The citizens of Mexico are generally very helpful and willing to provide directions and local information.

Highway Driving:

Mexican roads vary from freeway-style toll roads to dirt trails, so it is essential to drive defensively and learn the local driving rules. Be cautious of "topes" (speed bumps) and plan your route in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Campgrounds:

Camping facilities in Mexico range from rustic beach spots to first-class resorts. While options are extensive, it is important to note that not all campgrounds may be operational, so it is advisable to verify their current status before planning your trip.

Caravan Tours:

For first-timers or those hesitant about travelling solo, joining an RV caravan tour can be a great option. These tours provide guidance through border crossings, arrange campgrounds, and offer historical and cultural insights.

Other Considerations:

• Spare Parts: Bring spare parts for your RV, as certain components may be difficult to acquire in Mexico.
• Cell Phone Service: Ensure your cell phone will work in Mexico, as it can be crucial for communication and emergencies.
• Electricity: Be prepared for potential electricity issues at campgrounds, and consider bringing a power surge protector.
• Pet Papers: If you are travelling with pets, ensure you have all the necessary paperwork and that their vaccinations are up to date.
• Fuel: Research fuel availability and prices along your route, and consider bringing extra fuel filters.
• Water: Bring a refillable water container, as drinking tap water is generally not recommended in Mexico.

Frequently asked questions