Mexico Travel Insurance: Plans & Prices
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Reviewed By Last updated: 08/26/2025
Key Takeaways
- Based on our analysis, the top travel insurance plans for Mexico come from Travel Insured International, Berkshire Hathaway, and Seven Corners.
- Mexico does not accept U.S. health insurance, so we recommend choosing a policy with strong international medical coverage.
- Travel medical coverage for Mexico can be purchased for as little as $1/day
- Mexico is generally safe for tourists, but some areas of the country present safety risks that warrant buying comprehensive travel protection.
- Try our online travel insurance comparison tool to get quotes from multiple providers at once. For personal assistance, call our award-winning agents at 1-800-240-0369
Our Top Recommended Mexico Travel Insurance Plans
- Travel Insured International – FlexiPAX because it offers well-rounded trip protection with many opportunities to customize coverage.
- Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection – ExactCare Value because it offers affordable travel medical insurance for quick trips abroad.
- Seven Corners – Cruise because it offers a wide range of benefits suitable for travelers visiting Mexico by cruise ship.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Mexico?
Mexico does not require Americans to provide proof of insurance for vacation entry. However, Mexico does not widely accept U.S. health insurance, so we strongly recommend buying medical travel insurance, at a minimum.
That said, Squaremouth data shows that around 67% of travelers who purchase insurance for Mexico on our platform opt for comprehensive travel insurance, as it includes full trip cancellation and interruption reimbursement coverage as well as baggage, travel delay, and missed connection protection.
Reasons why you may need travel insurance when traveling to Mexico
Here is a look at some of the common scenarios people face when visiting Mexico and how travel insurance can help.
Crime, Petty Theft, & Civil Unrest
Tourist areas in Mexico are generally considered safe; however, the U.S. Department of State highlights petty theft, extortion schemes, and violent crime as concerns for tourists. Threat levels vary by region, so it’s important to review the State Department travel warnings and advisories when visiting Mexico. Pickpocketing and petty theft are two of the most common forms of crime tourists face in Mexico, and it’s especially prevalent in city centers and high-traffic tourist areas.
✅ Comprehensive travel insurance can reimburse you for lost or stolen personal items, as well as provide 24/7 assistance in an emergency.
Food & Waterborne Illness
Montezuma’s revenge, or traveler’s diarrhea, is a common illness people face when visiting Mexico. Tap water is not potable in Mexico, and food preparation standards are not always up to par with the United States. Consuming tap water or improperly prepared food, like dining from unregulated street vendors, could lead to a foodborne or waterborne illness. Consider drinking bottled or filtered water, always ask if the ice in your drinks was made from filtered water, and be cautious when eating street food.
✅ Travel insurance can cover medical expenses if you fall ill due to contaminated food or water, ensuring you receive the necessary treatment without excessive out-of-pocket costs.
Expensive, Substandard Medical Facilities
While Mexico has high-quality healthcare facilities in major cities, rural areas may lack proper medical care. Many hospitals require upfront payment before treatment, and private hospitals can be expensive for U.S. citizens who are visiting Mexico on vacation. For example, according to the U.S. Department of State, Medical Evacuations alone can cost in excess of $250,000.
✅ Travel medical insurance gets you access to quality healthcare and covers emergency medical costs like hospital stays and doctor visits. It can even pay to transport you to the nearest hospital or back home if needed.
Hurricanes and Natural Disasters
With Pacific and Atlantic coastlines, Mexico falls within the Atlantic and the Eastern Pacific hurricane belts. Mexico is also in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes. While these natural disasters are infrequent, they can cause disruptions to your travel plans unless you are prepared.
✅ Many comprehensive travel insurance plans can reimburse you for trip cancellations and interruptions if your lodgings or home are made uninhabitable by a natural disaster.
Adventure Sports-Related Accidents
Mexico is home to beautiful beaches, jungles, mountains, and more. The diverse terrain offers a natural playground for adventure seekers. It’s not unheard of for people to injure themselves as part of adventure activities, like snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, biking, and zip-lining. Ensuring you have proper medical protection in place is key to being able to enjoy your trip.
✅ Look for travel insurance plans that can offer protection for any adventure activities you plan to do while in Mexico.
Road Safety and Transportation Risks
Driving conditions and road infrastructure vary across Mexico and can range from rural dirt roads to complex interchanges as found in Mexico City. According to the U.S. State Department’s Report of U.S. Citizen Deaths from Non-natural Causes Abroad from 2002 -2022, road accidents accounted for nearly 33% of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico and are the leading cause of American fatalities in the country. It’s important to read the U.S. government guidelines on driving abroad to ensure you are prepared for the task.
✅ Travel Insurance can provide you with emergency medical care and pay for repatriation to the U.S. if you are severely injured while traveling. It can also pay for the repatriation of remains if you or a travel companion unexpectedly passes away while traveling.
More Details on the Best Travel Insurance for Mexico
Best Overall Travel Insurance
Recommended Plan: FlexiPAX
Emergency Medical: $100,000
Medical Evacuation: $500,000
Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
Optional Cancel For Any Reason upgrade
Best Value Travel Insurance
Recommended Plan: ExactCare Value
Emergency Medical: $15,000
Medical Evacuation: $150,000
Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
Includes concierge services at no additional cost
Best Cruise Insurance
Best Plan: Cruise
Emergency Medical: $250,000
Medical Evacuation: $500,000
Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
Provides generous Missed Connection coverage
How much does Mexico travel insurance cost?
At the time of writing this, the average cost of travel insurance for Mexico is $19 per day.
This is based on internal sales data from hundreds of travelers who used Squaremouth to protect their purchased trips to Mexico over the last 12 months. The average traveler spent $173 on Mexico travel insurance for an average stay of 9 days in the country.
That said, it’s possible to find even cheaper travel insurance for Mexico by opting for medical-only travel coverage.
Here are sample costs for the most popular Mexico travel insurance plans. These quotes below are for a 35-year-old traveler purchasing basic medical travel insurance for a 10-day, $3,000 trip to Mexico:
Medical-Only Travel Insurance Cost Example
| Provider | Plan Name | Plan Cost | Cancellation / Interruption Limits | Medical/Medevac Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tin Leg | Gold | $28 | $0/$0 | $500,000 / $500,000 |
| Seven Corners | Trip Protection Choice | $57 | $0/$1,000 | $500,000 / $1,000,000 |
| Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection | ExactCare Value | $10 | $0/$0 | $15,000 / $150,000 |
From this example, you can see that purchasing medical insurance for a Mexican vacation can be extremely budget-friendly, with some plans costing as little as $1 per day.
The plans listed above can provide you with strong financial protection against unexpected medical expenses, as well as cover expenses relating to other common disruptions like delays and baggage loss.
If you’re concerned about protecting your travel expenses, you’ll need a comprehensive travel insurance policy. The quotes in the table below are for comprehensive policies that include cancellation coverage using the same trip details.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance Cost Example
| Provider | Plan Name | Plan Cost | Cancellation / Interruption Limits | Medical/Medevac Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tin Leg | Gold | $160 | $3,000 / $4,500 | $500,000 / $500,000 |
| Seven Corners | Trip Protection Choice | $184 | $3,000 / $4,500 | $500,000 / $1,000,000 |
| Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection | ExactCare Value | $91 | $3,000 / $3,000 | $15,000 / $150,000 |
Travelers visiting Mexico who want to protect expenses like airfare, hotel stays, or cruise reservations should consider comprehensive coverage. The cost of these policies usually varies between 4-10% of your total insured trip costs.
Using the prices above, comprehensive travel insurance starts at just $9 per day, with popular plans ranging from $15-20 per day.
The prices listed above are examples of how much you can expect to pay for travel insurance for Mexico. The price of your coverage will depend on factors like travel dates, age, coverage type, and overall trip costs.
Get an instant quote to view exact pricing for your upcoming Mexico trip. Use the button below to compare policies from multiple travel insurance companies.
What travel coverage do I need for Mexico?
Regardless of your itinerary and travel dates, we recommend purchasing travel medical coverage at a minimum when visiting Mexico. That said, a comprehensive travel insurance plan is always best if it fits into your budget.
Here is a list of the most important travel insurance coverage to consider when visiting Mexico:
Travel medical coverage
At a minimum, the CDC recommends travel medical coverage when going abroad. Medical travel insurance can pay for doctor visits, medical exams, diagnostic tests, and medicine to get you back in working order. It’s especially important for trips to Mexico as U.S. health insurance is not widely accepted, and Mexico presents a host of potential health risks to travelers, from Montezuma’s Revenge to injuries during adventure activities.
Travel medical coverage is also the most affordable type of travel insurance and can cost as little as $1/day for basic coverage. We recommend opting for at least $50,000 of Emergency Medical coverage to ensure you are adequately protected. Some policies cover pre-existing medical condition flare-ups during your trip.
Medical evacuation coverage
Medical Evacuation coverage can pay to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facility for treatment. Although large cities like Mexico City have excellent medical facilities, this coverage is especially important for rural regions of Mexico, where health facilities may be far away or not up to U.S. standards. If you are severely injured and need to return home for long-term care, Medical Evacuation coverage can pay for a medical professional to escort you back to the U.S. for treatment.
It’s important to note that Medical Evacuation costs can exceed $100,000, making this coverage extremely valuable for avoiding heavy out-of-pocket costs in an emergency. Because of this, we recommend plans that include at least $100,000 of Medical Evacuation coverage for Mexico. Additionally, most policies include repatriation of remains in case of death during your trip.
Trip cancellation & interruption insurance
Traveling to Mexico can be costly, with expenses like flights, all-inclusive resorts, and excursions. If you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to an unforeseen event, trip cancelation and trip interruption coverage can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses.
Many popular comprehensive travel insurance plans will reimburse up to 100% of your insured trip costs if you’re forced to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death of a family member, or severe weather.
Some policies will also cover up to 150% of unused travel expenses if you have to end your trip early for a covered reason. The additional reimbursement is intended to help cover the cost of transportation back home.
Insurance for baggage and personal items
Mexico is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft and lost luggage are common concerns, especially in busy areas like Cancún, Mexico City, and Playa del Carmen. Baggage protection can reimburse you for lost, stolen, or damaged items such as phones, cameras, and laptops.
Keep in mind, some policies have high deductibles or low reimbursement limits, so compare plans carefully. Leaving irreplaceable valuables at home when traveling is always a good idea.
What isn’t covered by Mexico travel insurance plans?
Most standard policies will not cover:
- Alcohol- or drug-related incidents – Mexico is a popular party destination, but claims related to incidents involving alcohol or drugs are often denied.
- Pre-existing medical conditions (unless you purchase a waiver)
- Extreme sports – Accidents that occur while scuba diving, surfing, or participating in other adventure activities are not covered unless your policy includes the Sports & Activities benefit
- Civil unrest and government travel advisories – If the U.S. issues a travel ban, standard insurance may not apply.
Tips for getting the best travel insurance for Mexico
Use a Comparison tool
As the nation’s largest travel insurance marketplace, we allow travelers to view more policies and providers than any other comparison site. Comparing multiple plans side-by-side allows you to find the best coverage for your Mexico getaway at the lowest possible price.
Read the fine print and policy exclusions
Not all travel insurance plans offer the same coverage, so benefits can vary significantly. When comparing options, pay close attention to any relevant exclusions that may interfere with your travel plans.
Some policies, for example, may exclude coverage for adventure sports or pre-existing medical condition flare ups. Reading a policy’s Certificate of Insurance can help you understand its unique coverage, exclusions, and restrictions.
Consider your specific travel risks when buying coverage
Foodborne illness, water contamination, and severe weather events are common safety risks for all travelers to Mexico. Factors like your age, health risks, travel plans, and destination may also pose unique risks that are specific to your trip.
Identifying potential travel hazards can help you choose the perfect policy for your group. A robust travel insurance plan can cover unexpected medical costs and disruptions.
Determine how much coverage you need
When searching for Mexico travel insurance, you should aim for at least $50,000 in medical coverage and $100,000 in evacuation coverage to avoid financial hardship in case of an emergency.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, hospitals in Mexico usually require payment up-front for services. Some travel insurance companies provide this payment on your behalf, avoiding the need for costly out-of-pocket expenses.
Is Travel Insurance for Mexico Worth It?
Absolutely. Medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and theft can happen anywhere, even a destination as close to home as Mexico. For as little as a dollar a day, you can get peace of mind and financial protection for the duration of your trip.
The cost of travel insurance is minimal compared to the potential risks of traveling uninsured. For that reason, we highly recommend buying a policy prior to your trip’s departure date.
FAQ: Mexico travel insurance
Is travel insurance required to visit Mexico?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for visiting Mexico, but it is highly recommended. Medical costs, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuations can be expensive, and having coverage ensures peace of mind. Some Mexican states, like Quintana Roo (Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen), have required tourists to carry travel insurance in the past, so it’s always wise to check local requirements before your trip.
Will my U.S. health insurance be accepted in Mexico?
In most cases, no. U.S. health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, does not provide coverage in Mexico. Some private insurers may offer limited international coverage, but you’ll likely have to pay out-of-pocket and file for reimbursement later—if it’s even covered. A travel medical insurance policy is the best way to ensure access to care without unexpected expenses.
What documents are required when traveling to Mexico?
To enter Mexico as a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay).
- A return or onward ticket – While not always asked for, proof of onward travel may be required.
- Visa (if applicable) – U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays under 180 days.
Is Mexico safe for Americans to visit?
Popular tourist destinations like Cancún, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City are generally safe for visitors. However, some areas have higher crime rates, especially near border regions and certain rural areas.
During your trip, it’s important to follow appropriate safety precautions. This includes sticking to tourist areas, being mindful of scams and petty theft, and checking the latest travel warnings ahead of your trip.
Are hospitals good in Mexico?
Many private hospitals in Mexico, especially those found in major cities, offer high-quality medical care to patients. However, these facilities can be expensive if you do not have travel medical insurance.
Mexico’s public hospitals generally have longer wait times and provide lower-quality care. If these facilities don’t have the capacity to treat your condition, your travel insurance policy’s medical evacuation coverage may cover the cost to transport you to another, more equipped hospital.
Important Contact Information & Resources for U.S. Citizens Visiting Mexico
U.S. Embassy Mexico City
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
06500 Ciudad de Mexico
Mexico
800-681-9374
Embassy Website
Mexico Travel Advisories by Region
See more information at the U.S. Department of State’s Mexico Travel Advisory webpage.