- The best travel insurances for Mexico
- Is it currently safe to travel to Mexico?
- Is travel insurance required for a Mexican visa?
- Reasons to Get Travel Insurance for Mexico
- Coverage included in travel insurance for Mexico
- The cost of travel insurance for Mexico
- How to Find Affordable Travel Insurance for Mexico
- Will my current insurance policy cover me in Mexico?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Mexico: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Mexico covers emergency medical care, accidents, repatriation, baggage loss, and trip interruptions.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory for US visitors, but it is highly recommended due to limited healthcare coverage.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare in Mexico can be expensive; a hospital night for foreigners may cost $300–$800.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Mexico typically costs between $25 and $60 per person.
5. Good to know: Some activities like scuba diving or adventure sports may require additional insurance or policy upgrades.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international expert in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers each month. After analyzing 36 travel insurance policies available in the United States, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Mexico.
The best travel insurances for Mexico
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.0M | Our priority choice for robust cover in Mexico. - high medical limit - evacuation included - adaptable benefits for emergencies |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.0M | Leading for comprehensive service, especially for urgent care. - 24/7 medical helpline - strong evacuation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $0.5M | Good option for travelers seeking core protection and clear terms. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - accessible price |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.7M | Well-balanced plan with good support for most situations. - partial repatriation - hospital bills covered - broad scope of cover |
| Globe Partner | $0.3M | Reliable choice for shorter stays and essentials only. - covers care abroad - emergency evacuation - streamlined claims process |
| Globe Traveller | $0.5M | Smart for low-risk or quick trips, essential limits and fast claims. - basic medical cover only - rapid reimbursement - affordable ceiling |
- high medical limit
- evacuation included
- adaptable benefits for emergencies
- 24/7 medical helpline
- strong evacuation cover
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- accessible price
- partial repatriation
- hospital bills covered
- broad scope of cover
- covers care abroad
- emergency evacuation
- streamlined claims process
- basic medical cover only
- rapid reimbursement
- affordable ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Mexico?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to Mexico to be aware that security conditions vary greatly by region, with some states subject to Level 4 (Do Not Travel) advisories because of violent crime, while others remain at Level 1 or 2. No general prohibition exists for travel, but visitors must carefully review local restrictions before departure.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: violent crime, including kidnapping and armed robbery, is widespread in certain regions. For example, travelers should completely avoid areas such as Sinaloa or Tamaulipas due to frequent shootings and cartel activity.
- Health risks: medical care in major cities is generally high quality, but hospitals often require advance payment and do not accept US health insurance. For instance, medical evacuation from coastal resorts can cost tens of thousands of dollars if uninsured.
- Legal constraints: drug laws are strict and penalties severe, including for possession of even small amounts. US citizens have been imprisoned for carrying prescription medication without proper documentation.
- Urban risks: scams and petty theft, such as pickpocketing or credit card fraud, are common in cities like Mexico City and Cancun. Fake taxis operating at airports are a particular concern.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Mexico.
Is travel insurance required for a Mexican visa?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens to get a visa or enter Mexico for tourism or short stays.
However, it is strongly recommended to have travel insurance as most hospitals in Mexico require payment up front and do not accept US health insurance. A good policy should cover medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, since medical costs and repatriation can be very expensive if uninsured.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Mexico. This is mainly due to high medical costs and the potential risks associated with crime or accidents during travel.
Reasons to Get Travel Insurance for Mexico
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Mexico.
In Mexico, foreigners commonly use private hospitals in major cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, and Cancun, such as Hospital Ángeles or ABC Medical Center, as public facilities are often overcrowded and not recommended for tourists. Private medical services can be very expensive and always require upfront payment, while U.S. health insurance is not accepted.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Healthcare costs in Mexico vary depending on the type of service, location, and provider. Here are some general examples:
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital Ángeles | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 65,000 MXN (about $3,900) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 38,000 MXN (about $2,300) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 500,000 MXN (about $30,000) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 120,000 MXN (about $7,200) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Coverage included in travel insurance for Mexico
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Mexico.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and outpatient services in private clinics, which require upfront payment by foreigners. We recommend at least $100,000 of coverage. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Pays for air or ground evacuation and return to the US if needed, which can be extremely expensive. We recommend a minimum of $100,000 for evacuation and repatriation. |
| 💊 Medications | Includes prescription drugs and treatments during or after a medical event. Limit should be part of your emergency medical benefit, ideally within your $100,000 coverage. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally cause injury or property damage to others. Consider at least $50,000 in liability coverage. |
| 💼 Baggage and personal belongings | Reimburses loss, theft, or damage of luggage and valuable items while traveling. Recommended reimbursement limit: $1,500 to $2,500 per trip. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation or interruption | Covers prepaid travel expenses lost due to unexpected illness, accident, or serious incident before or during the trip. Ideal limit: total prepaid costs, up to $5,000 or more. |
| 📞 24/7 emergency assistance | Provides access to assistance and support in English at all times, including legal help or translation. Should be included automatically in quality travel insurance. |
| 🦟 Infectious disease & COVID-19 | Covers medical costs for infectious diseases such as COVID-19, dengue, or Zika, commonly contracted abroad. Minimum $50,000 recommended as part of medical expenses. |
We recommend at least $100,000 of coverage.
We recommend a minimum of $100,000 for evacuation and repatriation.
Limit should be part of your emergency medical benefit, ideally within your $100,000 coverage.
Consider at least $50,000 in liability coverage.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $1,500 to $2,500 per trip.
Ideal limit: total prepaid costs, up to $5,000 or more.
Should be included automatically in quality travel insurance.
Minimum $50,000 recommended as part of medical expenses.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited protection, exclusions, and low reimbursement limits. For your peace of mind, choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Mexico
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $18 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $32 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $54 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $110 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of travel insurance depends on several factors: the traveler’s age, length of stay, destination, type of coverage, and cancellation options. Prices may increase for longer trips, older travelers, or high-risk destinations. It’s important to remember these factors so you can pick the right plan and avoid unexpected costs during your trip.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Find Affordable Travel Insurance for Mexico
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Mexico while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 📅 Travel duration | Premiums increase with the length of your stay. Short stays mean a lower risk and lower overall cost for the insurer in Mexico. | Only insure the days you are actually abroad. Avoid adding extra days before and after your main travel dates. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Older travelers typically pay higher premiums, since risk of medical claims increases with age, especially in Mexico’s climate and environment. | Remember, Heymondo does not raise prices for people over 62. Compare rates with them if you are an older traveler. |
| 🔍 Level of coverage | More comprehensive benefits cost more, but offer better protection. Overtreating can drive up costs unnecessarily. | Select only the essential guarantees you need. Avoid duplicate coverage you may already have through a card. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Insuring a family or group is usually cheaper per person. Group contracts often get discounts and streamline coverage for all travelers. | Choose a group or family plan if traveling together. This may lower costs versus buying single policies. |
| 🌎 Geographic coverage | Some insurance policies offer multi-country coverage, which may be pricier. Focused coverage for Mexico often costs less. | Pick a plan that specifically covers only Mexico. Don’t pay extra for unnecessary worldwide coverage. |
| 💳 Payment options | Some providers offer discounts for annual payments or certain payment methods. This can reduce total costs. | Check for discounts with upfront payment. Annual plans or select payment cards may save you money. |
| 🛡️ Deductible amount | Choosing a higher deductible usually means a lower premium, as you take on more of the initial risk in an incident. | Set a deductible you would be comfortable paying. Increasing it can significantly lower your premium. |
Will my current insurance policy cover me in Mexico?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage, such as credit card insurance or your public health plan, can protect you during a trip to Mexico. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially since most Mexican hospitals do not accept US health insurance, and upfront payment is often required.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Mexico? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage abroad, no emergency repatriation | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in medical care and full repatriation support |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Some plans may reimburse after return, limits of $10,000-$25,000, no advance payment | Travel insurance pays clinics directly, with $100,000+ coverage and emergency rescue |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi, Discover) | Yes, partly | Emergency care up to $2,500, no baggage/trip cancellation, no extended stay coverage | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ plus trip cancellation, luggage coverage |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum, Mastercard World Elite) | Yes, partly | Medical costs up to $50,000, trip/baggage delay limits, few exclusions | Travel insurance offers $100,000+ and wide protection with less restrictive limits |
Example
While vacationing in Cancún, Laura suffered from severe appendicitis. Emergency surgery cost $14,000. Her Bank of America card only reimbursed $500 in medical expenses, and her U.S. health insurance covered nothing abroad. Laura had to pay $13,500 out-of-pocket, a huge burden she hadn’t anticipated despite bringing both her card and health insurance.
Expert advice
Always review the terms, exclusions, and policy limits of your current insurance. Essential scenarios, such as trip interruption from a family member’s illness or death, are sometimes excluded. Read all conditions closely to avoid unwelcome surprises overseas. For maximum reassurance, consider purchasing dedicated travel insurance tailored specifically to the needs of your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?
U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit Mexico for stays of up to 180 days. You must have a valid U.S. passport book (passport cards are not accepted at airports). You may also need to complete the Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital (FMMD) upon arrival by air.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Mexico?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review top options. Next, check coverage and exclusions, especially for medical evacuation, payment conditions, and activity-specific risks. Purchase your policy securely online. After payment, you will receive your insurance certificate by email for your trip to Mexico.
Are hospitals in Mexico likely to accept my U.S. insurance?
Most hospitals in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare. Travelers are typically required to pay for services upfront, even in emergencies. Travel insurance can arrange direct payment to hospitals or reimburse you later, making it easier to access quality care without large out-of-pocket expenses.
Does travel insurance cover COVID-19 related issues in Mexico?
Many travel insurance policies now offer coverage for COVID-19 related medical care, quarantine costs, or trip interruptions. Always check if the policy includes COVID-19 treatment, testing, and cancellation protection, as not every insurer provides the same level of coverage for pandemics or infectious diseases.
What documents are required to use travel insurance in Mexico?
You will need your insurance policy certificate, contact information for the insurer’s emergency assistance line, and your personal ID or passport. In case of a medical emergency or loss event, keep all receipts and obtain official reports or medical documentation for your claim.
Can I buy travel insurance for Mexico after my trip has already started?
Some insurers may let you purchase travel insurance after your departure, but coverage is usually more limited and waiting periods may apply. It’s always safer and often cheaper to buy your policy before you leave the United States to ensure full coverage from day one.
Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?
U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit Mexico for stays of up to 180 days. You must have a valid U.S. passport book (passport cards are not accepted at airports). You may also need to complete the Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital (FMMD) upon arrival by air.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Mexico?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review top options. Next, check coverage and exclusions, especially for medical evacuation, payment conditions, and activity-specific risks. Purchase your policy securely online. After payment, you will receive your insurance certificate by email for your trip to Mexico.
Are hospitals in Mexico likely to accept my U.S. insurance?
Most hospitals in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare. Travelers are typically required to pay for services upfront, even in emergencies. Travel insurance can arrange direct payment to hospitals or reimburse you later, making it easier to access quality care without large out-of-pocket expenses.
Does travel insurance cover COVID-19 related issues in Mexico?
Many travel insurance policies now offer coverage for COVID-19 related medical care, quarantine costs, or trip interruptions. Always check if the policy includes COVID-19 treatment, testing, and cancellation protection, as not every insurer provides the same level of coverage for pandemics or infectious diseases.
What documents are required to use travel insurance in Mexico?
You will need your insurance policy certificate, contact information for the insurer’s emergency assistance line, and your personal ID or passport. In case of a medical emergency or loss event, keep all receipts and obtain official reports or medical documentation for your claim.
Can I buy travel insurance for Mexico after my trip has already started?
Some insurers may let you purchase travel insurance after your departure, but coverage is usually more limited and waiting periods may apply. It’s always safer and often cheaper to buy your policy before you leave the United States to ensure full coverage from day one.
