Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to take an RV to Mexico?
This is the first question I hear. I understand why. The publicity about violence in Mexico is widespread and series like Narcos on Netflix do not help. The fact of the matter is that violence in Mexico is highly targeted, unlike the random violence that is endemic in the US. There is an average of one mass shooting a day in the US. If you are not safe at a country music concert in Vegas or a Wal Mart in Texas, I find it difficult to believe the fear behind going to Mexico. In Mexico RV'ers are not a target group. That is not to say you cannot be in the wrong place at the wrong time, but that is also the case in Canada & the USA. In July 2019, a couple in a camper van were murdered in northern BC, Canada for example, and there have been several others over the last several years. I have RVed in Mexico myself for 12 years, all winter long, and have never seen, nor experienced any incident.
Are there RV Parks in Mexico?
Yes, quite a lot. They are not quite up to American standards, but most have power, water and dump facilites, usually in the indivual sites. Sometimes layout is wierd so take an extra long power cord & sewer hose. Many Parks have pools & WiFi.
What size RV can I take to Mexico?
That depends on where you go. I saw a 45 ft Class A last year towing a 25 ft cargo trailer. He made it down to just north of Puerto Vallarta. If you stick to toll roads you can do that. Generally speaking however, smaller is better. I myself feel comfortable in a 30 - 35 ft motorhome or towing a 25 ft trailer of 34 ft 5th wheel. There are toll roads all over Mexico and you can plan your trip to utilize most of them. I would avoid free roads unless you already know what they are like or have a smaller rig.
How expensive is fuel in Mexico?
In 2021/2022 it is about $3.50 a gallon US or $1.35 a liter Canadian. It did not change when the big jump happened in March 2022. The Mexican government is subsidizing it.
Is ULSD Diesel available in Mexico?
As of 2019, it is supposedly universal. It is not marked on most stations. DEF can be hard to find, it is sold in Autozones.
What if I break down or have an accident?
We will do our best to handle whatever situation arises. We have a lot of tour guides throughout Mexico and if you break down we can call on one of those to make sure you have someone to assist you if you are delayed. We won't just cut you loose. We will assist in contacting your insurance and dealing with issues in Spanish. In one case we had to have a customers truck flat bedded to the US, but we are able to deal with things like that or towing a trailer out and that sort of thing. Those incidents are very rare (Only happened once), but you at least have the knowledge we can handle the language and can track down assistance.
Why are RV Caravans so expensive?
It is all relative. How much would you be spending at home or going on a camping trip in the US? Remember caravans (at least ours) include all RV park fees, a lot of meals and a lot of escorted tours. We strive for quality. Caravans supply a Wagon Master who knows where he is going and assist you in the paperwork involved to get your rig into Mexico
What is cell service like in Mexico?
Excellent. Telcel has the widest coverage and they offer cheap talk, text & data services. US companies like AT&T have packages that include Mexico and can be quite reasonable.
What are roads like in Mexico for an RV?
Toll roads are good, albeit pricey. The free roads can vary a lot. I would use a caravan for your first RV trip..
What about RV Sanitizer?
You won't find it in Mexico. We recommend the 2 following products which are identical despite the name difference. It is a powder, easy to store, works in heat and is economical.
Americans: Happy Campers
Canadians: Classic Campers
What about Water?
Water is not safe in Mexico. You want to buy the 5 gallon containers of it which are available everywhere and cheap. Just use your tanks for showers & dishes, and sanitize them after returning to the US. Use bottled water to brush your teeth.
What About Power?
Power is unreliable and you need to protect your rig. See Power
What about Propane?
It is not available at gas stations. There are separate depots we fill at. Sometimes trucks come around the RV Park. On board and portable can be handled.