Before You Go Checklist

  • Get your Mexican Auto Insurance
  • As of September 2015, all U.S. and Canadian citizens crossing into Mexico need an FMM Tourist Permit regardless of the duration or destination of your stay in Baja.
  • Don’t forget your passport and driver’s license
  • Your original vehicle registration
  • Bring your Discover Baja membership card for travel discounts
  • Make copies of all important documents (passport, driver’s license, Mexican auto insurance, credit cards, tourist card). Give one copy to a friend or family member staying at home and take one copy with you. If possible, scan the documents and email to yourself so that you have access to them on file.
  • Call your U.S. cell phone provider to activate Mexican roaming and find out about packages for traveling in Mexico
  • Call your bank for your debit card and credit cards to let them know you will be traveling in Mexico. Ask if they have locations or sister banks in Baja where you can withdrawal money from an ATM without a fee.
  • Download & print our Driving Directions
  • Download and print our guide on what to do if you’re pulled over by the police
  • Register with the U.S. Department of State
  • Inform family and friends of your travel plans
  • Get Travelers Insurance
  • If you will be fishing from a boat, you will need a Fishing License
  • If you have a boat over 15 feet in length that you are taking to Baja, you will need a Temporary Boat Importation Permit
  • If you will be traveling to mainland Mexico outside of Puerto Peñasco, a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit is required for all vehicles. In Baja, no vehicle permit is required.