Viajar por México con poco presupuesto
Travel Mexico on a shoestring by choosing overnight buses for long distances, eating primarily at local markets (mercados) and street stalls, and staying in shared hostel dorms. Expect to spend $30–$40 USD per day for a comfortable but bare-bones experience.
- Master the bus system. Avoid domestic flights. Use ADO (in the south/east) or ETN/Primera Plus (in the central/north) for long-haul travel. Book tickets 48 hours in advance online to save 10-20% compared to buying at the station.
- Eat at the mercado. Sit at the communal tables inside municipal markets. A hearty 'comida corrida' (fixed-price lunch) typically costs $4–$6 USD and includes soup, rice, a main, and a drink.
- Utilize public transit. Skip official tourist shuttles and Uber. Use city buses or the Metro (especially in Mexico City) which cost pennies compared to taxis. In smaller towns, 'colectivos' (shared vans) are the standard way to move between neighboring villages.
- Seek out free activities. Focus on free walking tours, visiting public cathedrals, strolling through zócalos (main squares), and hiking. Many museums in Mexico offer free entry on Sundays for residents and students, so bring an international student ID if you have one.
- Is it safe to take overnight buses?
- Yes, stick to first-class or luxury bus lines (ADO Platino, ETN). They are modern, have bathrooms, and use toll roads, which are significantly safer than secondary roads.
- How do I get the best exchange rate?
- Withdraw pesos from ATMs attached to reputable banks (like BBVA or Santander). Avoid currency exchange kiosks at airports, as they charge massive commissions.
- Do I need to tip in Mexico?
- Yes. 10-15% in sit-down restaurants is standard. Tipping for street food or in markets is not expected.