Is it safe to travel on a budget in these areas?

Yes, provided you stay in populated areas, avoid walking alone at night in unknown neighborhoods, and keep your valuables locked in your bag.

Use ATMs located inside bank branches during daylight hours. Avoid standalone machines on the street as they are prone to card-skimming.

So You Want to Do Mexico and the Caribbean on a Shoestring

To travel Mexico and the Caribbean on a budget, stick to local buses instead of taxis and eat at street-side stalls rather than beach-front restaurants. Focus on one region at a time to minimize flight costs and always prioritize local guest houses over large resorts.

Choose your geography carefully. Avoid 'island-hopping' by flight, as this will destroy your budget. Pick either Mexico (Yucatan or Oaxaca) or one Caribbean island (like the Dominican Republic) and stay there for the duration of your trip.
Use local transport. In Mexico, use ADO bus lines for inter-city travel. On Caribbean islands, use 'colectivos' or 'publicos'—these are shared vans used by locals. Avoid private transfers at all costs; they are marked up 300% for tourists.
Eat like a local. If a restaurant has a menu in English, it is too expensive. Look for markets or street carts where locals are lining up. Expect to pay $3–$7 for a solid meal.
Book activities independently. Do not book tours through your accommodation. Go to the port or the bus station yourself to purchase tickets for ferries or park entrances.

Is it safe to travel on a budget in these areas?: Yes, provided you stay in populated areas, avoid walking alone at night in unknown neighborhoods, and keep your valuables locked in your bag.
Should I use ATMs?: Use ATMs located inside bank branches during daylight hours. Avoid standalone machines on the street as they are prone to card-skimming.