Traveling To Mexico? Bring Two Phones Without A Hassle

Mexico has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, with both mobile and fixed-line networks covering most of the country. If you're travelling to Mexico, you can use your cell phone by purchasing an international plan from your carrier, using your US or Canadian plan, or buying a Mexican SIM card. It's important to note that some carriers include international travel to Mexico and Canada in their plans, so it's best to check with your provider before your trip. Additionally, Mexico has specific rules regarding the number of electronic devices you can bring into the country, with limits on the number of phones, tablets, and other devices.

Phone compatibility and coverage

Mexico has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, with both mobile and fixed-line networks covering most of the country. The country has good coverage for 3G and 4G networks, especially in major cities.

If you are travelling from the US to Mexico, your cell phone will likely work without issues. However, you will need a data plan to stay connected to the internet. While you can use data roaming in Mexico as your phone will connect to local networks, this can be an expensive option.

An alternative is to purchase a SIM or eSIM card in Mexico. To do this, you will need an unlocked phone that can connect to international networks.

International Plans

Many carriers in the US, such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, include international travel to Mexico and Canada in their plans. In this case, you can use your phone in Mexico without any additional steps.

Some cell phone carriers also offer international features or add-ons, or have international agreements that allow you to use your cell phone in Mexico for a price. Be sure to contact your carrier to determine the costs and how you will be charged.

Mexican SIM or eSIM Cards

In some instances, purchasing a Mexican SIM or eSIM card may be a cheaper alternative. This is especially true if you have expensive or non-existent international plans, spotty or non-existent coverage, plan to use your phone frequently, or will be in Mexico for an extended period.

With a SIM or eSIM card, you will have a Mexican phone number and won't have to worry about roaming charges. You can purchase a SIM card in most cities from shops such as Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar.

Phone Laws and Safety

It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Mexico. To keep your phone safe, make sure you have a strong password lock, and be aware of your surroundings when using your phone in public. Keep your phone in a secure place when you're not using it, and use a reliable phone case to protect your device from damage.

Additionally, make sure to back up your photos and information, and familiarize yourself with how to call the US or Canada from Mexico.

International plans

If you are travelling from the US to Mexico, your cell phone will work without any issues. However, you will need to add an international plan to stay connected to the internet in a foreign country.

AT&T

AT&T offers an unlimited plan in the US that will work in Mexico with no additional cost, but the service might be capped at 2G, which means your internet connection will be quite slow.

AT&T also offers a data roaming plan, which costs $12 per day and includes unlimited data, text messages, and international calls.

Verizon

Verizon has a $10 USD daily pass, which costs $5 USD in Mexico, which includes unlimited data, text, and phone calls. However, to use this service, you have to own an Unlimited Plus, Unlimited Welcome, or any other Unlimited plan from Verizon.

T-Mobile

T-Mobile works in Mexico with its Go5G Next, Go5G Plus, and other Go5G data plans. Without these plans, you would have to pay for their roaming packages, which range from $5 to $50 USD.

T-Mobile's international plans for Mexico include Essentials and Magenta. With both of these plans, you will get unlimited talk, text messages, and data in Mexico (and Canada). The main difference between the two plans is that with Magenta, you will get up to 5GB of 4G LTE access. The Essentials plan just has 2G data.

Google Fi

Google Fi's Unlimited Plus plan is a good option for international travel. It offers unlimited data, talk, and text when traveling in 200+ countries, including Mexico, for $65/month.

Local Mexican Carriers

If you are staying in Mexico for an extended period of time, you may want to consider purchasing a local SIM card. Telcel, the largest cell service provider in Mexico, offers prepaid SIM cards with data plans. Movistar is the second-largest provider, and AT&T is the third.

SIM cards

A SIM card, or Subscriber Identity Module card, is a tiny metal chip that you insert into your cell phone, connecting your phone to a local mobile network. With a local SIM card, you will get a Mexican phone number (+52 area code) and be able to use local data services.

If you are planning to stay in Mexico for an extended period of time and want to buy a Mexican SIM card to use in your American phone, you will need to make sure that your phone is unlocked before you leave for Mexico. You can then purchase a SIM card from a Mexican carrier such as Telcel, Movistar, or AT&T Mexico. These companies sell prepaid SIM cards, which can be purchased online or in stores in Mexico.

If you are travelling with multiple devices, you may want to consider getting a pocket WiFi device for your trip. These devices are usually rented, but you can also choose to buy one. They are small and can be carried around easily during your trip. However, they can be quite expensive, with one week costing up to $100 USD, including delivery fees, data plans, and any additional accessories.

If you are only visiting Mexico for a short trip, your American SIM card will likely work just fine. However, if you are planning to stay for a longer period of time, it is recommended to get a local SIM card to take advantage of cheaper rates.

It is important to note that there are some restrictions on the number of electronic devices you can bring into Mexico. According to the Mexico Customs website, visitors are allowed to bring up to six portable cell phone equipment or other wireless network devices without paying any duties.

Phone safety

When travelling to Mexico, it is important to take precautions to ensure the safety of your phone and other electronic devices. Here are some tips to keep your devices secure:

• Password Protection: Ensure your phone has a strong password or passcode to deter unauthorized access if it is lost or stolen.
• Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings when using your phone in public. Keep a close eye on your device and avoid using it in situations where it could be easily snatched by thieves.
• Secure Storage: When not in use, store your phone in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or other secure storage option.
• Protective Case: Use a reliable phone case to protect your device from physical damage.
• Heat Protection: Do not leave your phone in a hot car or in direct sunlight, as this can cause overheating. Minimize the use of background apps to reduce battery stress and heat generation. If needed, consider getting a glare protector to improve screen visibility in bright sunlight.
• Backup Contacts: Keep a backup of important contact information in a safe place, separate from your phone, in case your device is lost or stolen.

In addition to these safety measures, it is also important to be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding cell phone usage. For example, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Mexico. Familiarize yourself with such laws to avoid any unintended violations.

When travelling with multiple phones or electronic devices, it is advisable to check the latest regulations and restrictions. While Mexico has lifted previous limits on the number of phones and other devices that can be brought into the country, there may still be restrictions on the number of duty-free items allowed. It is recommended to check the official website of Mexico Customs for the most up-to-date information.

To avoid potential issues with customs, ensure that your devices are clearly for personal use and are not in their original packaging. Additionally, consider obtaining travel insurance that covers your electronic devices in case of loss or theft.

By following these safety tips and staying informed about local laws and regulations, you can help ensure the security of your phone and other devices during your travels in Mexico.

Phone laws

Mexico has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, with both mobile and fixed-line networks covering most of the country. The country has good coverage for 3G and 4G networks, especially in major cities.

• International Calling Plans: Many US carriers, such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, include international travel to Mexico and Canada in their plans. If you have an international plan, you can use your phone in Mexico without any additional charges. However, it is important to check with your carrier about the specific terms and conditions, as well as any associated costs.
• Purchasing a Mexican SIM Card: If you don't have an international plan or want to avoid roaming charges, purchasing a local SIM card in Mexico is a good option. This is especially useful if you plan to stay in the country for an extended period or if you intend to use your phone frequently. Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar are the major cell phone providers in Mexico, offering various plans and services.
• Using Your US or Canadian Plan: If you don't want to switch to a Mexican SIM card, you can use your existing US or Canadian plan in Mexico. However, be mindful of potential roaming charges and monitor your cell phone expenses. International roaming can be expensive, so it is advisable to check with your carrier about the rates and any available add-ons or international agreements.
• Familiarize Yourself with Local Laws: It is important to be aware of Mexico's cell phone laws. For example, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in the country. Additionally, when travelling with multiple electronic devices, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with Mexican customs regulations to avoid any issues or unexpected charges.
• Calling the US or Canada from Mexico: To make an international call from Mexico, you need to dial the exit code of Mexico ("00"), followed by the country code of the US or Canada ("1"), and then the standard phone number, including the area code. For example, "00-1-area code-phone number."
• Keeping Your Cell Phone Safe: Mexico is no exception when it comes to taking precautions with your mobile phone while travelling. Ensure your device has a strong password, and be aware of your surroundings when using it in public. Keep your phone in a secure place when not in use, and consider investing in a reliable phone case to protect it from damage.
• Reporting Loss or Theft: In the unfortunate event of losing your phone or having it stolen, contact your service provider as soon as possible. They may be able to help locate or disable your device remotely. Additionally, report the incident to the local police, as they may request your IMEI number for their records.

In summary, when travelling to Mexico with multiple phones or electronic devices, it is important to understand your carrier's international plan options and any associated costs. Purchasing a local SIM card can be a more cost-effective option, especially for extended stays. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs regulations, and take the necessary precautions to keep your devices safe and secure.

Frequently asked questions