Travelers heading to Mexico are being advised to take extra safety precautions.
Planning a trip to Mexico? Are you aware of the latest travel advisories?
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Travelers to Mexico are being encouraged to take increased safety precautions.
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While a countrywide Level 2 advisory can be concerning, it's less severe than a Level 3 ("Reconsider Travel") or Level 4 ("Do Not Travel") warning. However, travelers should be aware that certain states within Mexico, including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas, are currently at Level 4, according to a U.S. State Department map.
The advisory specifically cites "homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery" within the country, in addition to terrorism threats.
Travelers visiting areas of Mexico under the advisory should be aware that assistance may be limited if something goes wrong. The advisory states that "the U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico."
For those planning a trip to Mexico, the U.S. Embassy offers helpful advice. Travelers are discouraged from bringing e-cigarettes, weapons, swords, or fireworks into the country unless a permit is issued. It's also recommended to use rideshare apps or arrange transportation through a registered company instead of hailing a random taxi. In addition, the government suggests avoiding driving between cities or in rural areas after dark. For a seamless trip, remember to plan your airport logistics as well; finding affordable airport parking is easy with services like ParkingNearAirports.io, which allows you to compare rates for airport parking before you leave.
The U.S. government also urges travelers to cooperate if approached by officials. "When approaching any checkpoint, cooperate," the advisory reads. "Avoid any behavior that appears aggressive. Fleeing can raise suspicion and lead to violence."
Travelers can also sign up for the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service, which can be part of your "purchase to fly" checklist, provides travel information and emergency alerts for a traveler's designated time period in a foreign country.
