Getting ready for your trip

But before you jump in your car and head for the border, there's much you need to know and do. Please take the time to review the following information and additional information available at AAA Arizona, so that you can be a well-informed and well-prepared Mexico tourist when crossing the border in your vehicle.

You must purchase Mexican Auto Insurance before driving into Mexico. Your U.S. insurance policy will not cover travel in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance is typically offered at reasonable per-day rates from reputable carriers. AAA offers Mexican auto insurance and travel advice on their web site. Many other reputable carriers offer Mexican insurance online. You can also obtain insurance from roadside retailers along Highway 85 before arriving at the Mexican border.

You will be traveling through Sonoran Desert in a rural area (both in Arizona and Mexico), so be prepared. Take water with you. There are several places to stop for fuel and food before crossing into Mexico. Highway 8 in Mexico is patrolled regularly, so if you happen to break down, pull off to the side and lift the hood of your car. Someone will be along to help. Beware of cattle, goats, coyotes and other animals crossing the road.

It is advisable to top off your fuel tank before entering Mexico. Fuel becomes increasingly expensive as you approach the border, and much more expensive in Mexico. The Arizona towns of Ajo and Why have fueling stations that offer reasonable prices along the way. Lukeville, the border crossing town, also offers fuel, but at premium prices.

Make sure you arrive at the border after 6 a.m. and before midnight, as the crossing stations are closed outside of these hours.

Typically, no special documents are required to travel to Puerto Peñasco and return to the United States, as long as you will not be staying longer than 3 days and will not be travelling further into the interior of the country. In some cases, it may be necessary to take a passport or certified birth certificate with you. For more detailed information about personal identification and vehicle requirements, please visit AAA of Arizona's website.

Source: AAA Arizona