Is it safe to use credit cards?

Only in established grocery stores or hotels. Use cash for markets, street food, and buses to avoid card cloning risks.

Do I need to tip in Mexico?

Yes. A standard tip in restaurants is 10-15%. You do not need to tip for street food or in taxis.

How to save money on a trip to Mexico

Prioritize eating at local 'fondas' and markets, use ADO or local 'colectivos' instead of private transfers, and travel during the shoulder seasons of May, June, or September. You can comfortably explore Mexico on $50–$70 USD per day if you avoid tourist-trap pricing and stay in locally-owned guesthouses.

Use local bus lines for long distances. Skip the expensive private shuttles. Use the ADO bus network for cross-state travel. Book tickets online via the ADO app at least 48 hours in advance to secure 'promocional' fares that are often 30-40% cheaper.
Master the 'colectivo' for local travel. Colectivos are shared vans that run fixed routes. They cost between 10 and 30 pesos ($0.50–$1.50) per ride. Ask your hotel host where the nearest 'base' is for your destination; flag them down anywhere along the route.
Eat the 'Comida Corrida'. Look for restaurants offering 'comida corrida' between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This is a set-menu lunch (soup, rice, main, drink) that usually costs between 80 and 120 pesos ($4–$7) total.
Withdraw pesos strategically. Avoid airport ATMs and 'Euronet' style machines. Use bank-affiliated ATMs (like BBVA or Santander) inside secure branches. Always decline the ATM's 'conversion rate' offer; choose 'Continue without conversion' to let your own bank handle the exchange rate.

Is it safe to use credit cards?: Only in established grocery stores or hotels. Use cash for markets, street food, and buses to avoid card cloning risks.
Do I need to tip in Mexico?: Yes. A standard tip in restaurants is 10-15%. You do not need to tip for street food or in taxis.