10 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler
When I first told people I was heading to Mexico on my own, I got a lot of raised eyebrows. Friends and family worried about safety, scams, and whether I’d feel lonely. I get it—Mexico often gets an unfair reputation in the media, and traveling solo as a woman can feel intimidating no matter where you go.
But after spending time in multiple destinations—Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and beyond—I can tell you with confidence: Mexico is an incredible country for travelers, including solo female travelers. It’s warm, welcoming, and filled with adventure at every turn.
That doesn’t mean you should just book a flight and wing it. Like anywhere else in the world, a little preparation goes a long way. So if you’re planning your first solo trip to Mexico, here are 10 essential things to know that will help you feel safe, confident, and ready to enjoy every moment.
1. Mexico Is Big and Diverse
Mexico is so much more than beaches and margaritas. It’s the 14th largest country in the world, with mountains, jungles, deserts, and charming colonial towns. Each region has its own culture, food, and vibe. There's something truly unique to love about each area.
- The Yucatán Peninsula is famous for turquoise water and Mayan ruins.
- Central Mexico is filled with colorful towns and rich history.
- Baja California offers incredible beaches, surfing, and whale watching.
Knowing this helps you choose the destination that best matches your travel style.
2. Safety Is All About Smart Choices
One of the most common concerns I hear is, “Is Mexico safe for solo female travelers?” My answer: yes—with smart choices.
In my experience, I felt safe walking around tourist areas, dining solo, and exploring. That said, I also:
- Stayed in well-reviewed neighborhoods. I did lots of research on where others felt safe, and I chose places accordingly.
- Avoided walking alone at night in quiet areas.
- Used trusted transportation (more on that below).
Like anywhere, crime exists, but tourists are rarely targeted if they use common sense. Trust your gut, stay alert, and don’t flash valuables. Don't put your phone in your back pocket. Keep it put away when you aren't using it, and in a place that's not easy to access. Phone theft is common, in fact, my friend has had her phone taken twice in Mexico. Be smart about it, and you'll be just fine.
Mexico is a lovely place, and you’ll likely feel just as safe as you would in other popular destinations.
3. Choose the Right Destination for Your Comfort Level
Not all parts of Mexico feel the same for a first-timer.
- Easiest for beginners: Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta.
- Cultural and vibrant: Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende.
- Off-the-beaten-path: Chiapas, Bacalar, Puerto Escondido, and smaller surf towns.
If it’s your first trip, start with one of the beginner-friendly spots and branch out as your confidence grows.
4. Learn a Few Basic Spanish Phrases
You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing a few words goes a long way:
- Hola (hello)
- Gracias (thank you)
- ¿Cuánto cuesta? (how much does it cost?)
In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, but locals genuinely appreciate the effort when you try Spanish. It’s also empowering to learn a little of the language, and use it.
5. Transportation Tips for Solo Travelers
Getting around Mexico is easier than you might think.
- ADO buses are safe, clean, and affordable for long-distance travel between cities. I used an ADO bus to travel from the Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen and back. Because of how popular that region is, buses are very frequent in both directions.
- Uber works in Mexico City and a few other major cities, but it’s not everywhere.
- Taxis can be perfectly fine to hail from the street, just make sure they’re clearly marked as taxis and always ask for the price before getting in. You could pay a lot if you don't ask.
This simple step avoids confusion and helps you feel in control.
6. Budgeting & Money Safety
Mexico is generally very affordable compared to the United States, but costs vary depending on where you go. Playa del Carmen and Cancun are pricier than Oaxaca or Puebla, for example.
A few tips for money safety:
- Use bank ATMs inside malls or official buildings, not street ATMs.
- Carry some pesos. Many smaller shops and taxis don’t take cards, especially if you head out of the tourist zones.
- Split your money between a few places (wallet, bag, hidden pouch) just in case. I leave cards I don't need in my accommodation, and don't take all my cash with me at once.
7. Pack with Safety and Comfort in Mind
Packing smart will make your trip smoother:
- A crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack for daily use.
- Light, breathable clothing for the heat. It can get very hot here!
- A layer for cooler nights or high-altitude areas.
- A reusable water bottle (many Airbnbs and hotels have filtered water dispensers).
Keep it simple. Laundry services are common and inexpensive in Mexico, so you don’t need to overpack.
8. Food & Water Safety
Mexican food is one of the best parts of traveling here! Street tacos, fresh juices, and regional specialties are all must-tries. A few things to keep in mind:
- Stick to busy food stalls where locals are eating.
- Always drink bottled or filtered water. Tap water is not potable. Do not drink it.
- Ease into street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
I ate street food in multiple cities and never got sick. Choosing the right vendors makes all the difference.
9. Connect with Other Travelers and Locals
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you’ll be lonely. Mexico has a huge digital nomad and traveler community, so you're bound to make some friends.
- Stay in hostels or co-living spaces if you want to meet others.
- Join walking tours or cooking classes.
- Use Facebook groups for digital nomads and solo travelers in Mexico.
I found it incredibly easy to connect with other people, which gave me both friendship and peace of mind while traveling alone.
10. Trust Your Intuition
This might be the most important tip of all. If something feels off—whether it’s a street, a taxi, or even a person—listen to your gut. It’s okay to say no, walk away, or change your plans.
Solo travel is all about learning to trust yourself. The more you practice listening to that inner voice, the more confident you’ll become, and the more relaxed you'll feel traveling solo.
Traveling to Mexico solo as a woman might feel intimidating at first, but with the right preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Mexico is vibrant, diverse, and welcoming—and it has so much more to offer than the headlines suggest.
I’ve explored beaches, cities, and cultural gems here on my own, and each trip has left me feeling more confident, connected, and inspired.
So if Mexico has been on your list, consider this your sign—it’s time to book that ticket.
Learn more about Mexico
Top Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico
Digital Nomad Guide to Mexico: Best Cities, Safety, and Cost of Living
