Part of our Mexico guide.
These three articles cover packing for a March trip, a day trip to Tijuana, and the essentials of crossing into Mexico for the day. Each guide focuses on practical preparation rather than general descriptions.
Related travel guides: How Far Is The Tijuana Airport From The Border, How Long Does It Take To Cross The Tijuana Border?, Tijuana’s Last Days Of Bullfighting, and Things To Do In Mexico.
What To Pack On A 10-Day Trip To Mexico In March
For a 10-day trip to Mexico in March, pack for spring weather that varies by region. In coastal areas like Cancún or Puerto Vallarta, bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, a sun hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. For high-altitude destinations such as Mexico City or San Miguel de Allende, pack layers: a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings, plus comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and ruins. Include a reusable water bottle, a universal power adapter, and a small daypack. If you plan to visit ancient ruins or hike, sturdy footwear and insect repellent are essential. A light rain jacket can be useful for occasional showers.
What To Do On A Day Trip To Tijuana
Tijuana sits in Baja California, just across the border from San Diego, California. You can drive across the border, take a bus, or join a guided tour. Start at Avenida Revolución for shopping, street food, and craft beer. Visit the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT) for exhibits on Mexican history and art. For lunch, try fish tacos at a local marisquería or a Caesar salad—the dish was invented in Tijuana. Cross back into the U.S. before evening to avoid long wait times; the San Ysidro border crossing can take one to three hours on foot or by car. If you want to explore beyond the city center, consider a short taxi ride to Playas de Tijuana for the oceanfront boardwalk and the border monument at the beach.
What Does It Take To Make A Day Trip Into Mexico
To make a day trip into Mexico, you need a valid passport. U.S. and Canadian citizens can enter by land with a passport book or card. For travel beyond the border zone (typically 20–30 km from the border), you may need a tourist permit (FMM), which is free for stays under seven days when crossing by land. Driving across requires Mexican auto insurance—U.S. policies are not valid in Mexico. For a day trip to Tijuana, you can park on the U.S. side and walk across the San Ysidro pedestrian crossing. Buses from downtown San Diego to the border run frequently. If you plan to visit Guadalajara or other inland cities, flying is the most practical option. Always carry your passport, avoid displaying valuables, and use official taxis or rideshare apps within Mexican cities.
