Trips between Mexico and Texas are commonplace to many who live on border towns in either country, as border crossings are simple and generally quick. Texas' entire southern land border runs along the northeastern part of Mexico and many people from Texas take day trips, shopping expeditions and vacations there. However, the Mexican government's ongoing fight against drug smugglers and cartels has caused an increase in violence, especially in border towns. While the violence has mostly avoided major tourism areas such as Cancun, the U.S. government urges all citizens to use caution when traveling anywhere in Mexico.

Travel Documents

All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter and leave Mexico. Additionally, travelers staying in Mexico for more than 72 hours, or those who are traveling outside of a border zone city such as Juarez or Nuevo Laredo, must purchase a tourist card and carry it with them throughout Mexico. Tourist cards are generally included in the price of your airfare, however if you are traveling via land or sea, you must purchase a card at a border crossing or from a Mexican immigration office in town.

Land Border Crossings

A large number of border crossings between Texas and Mexico are in operation as of the time of publication, however, a few major crossings take most of the traffic, including those at Juarez, Nuevo Laredo and Heroica Matamoros. Crossing the border is relatively simple, as U.S. citizens and Mexicans alike cross in either direction multiple times a day for school, work or shopping. The border is the Rio Grande and numerous bridges span the river. Many people cross the border on foot, but taxis, buses and private vehicles are also allowed over the bridges. Crossing by car can mean a significant wait on either side, however, crossing by foot is relatively quick.


A variety of flights operate from Texas airports into Mexican cities both large and small. U.S.-based carriers generally fly into major destinations, such as Mexico City and Cancun, however many smaller airports are served as well. The Mexican carrier, AeroMexico ( flies into nearly all Mexican airports, if not directly from Texas, than from a connecting flight through Mexico City. Flights from Texas into Mexico are generally between one and three hours, depending on where you are traveling.


At the time of publication, the only cruise port in Texas is Galveston, on the north eastern coast. However, both Carnival ( and Royal Caribbean ( offer cruises with ports of call in Mexico. The Carnival ship Ecstasy offers four- and five-day Mexico-only cruises from Galveston with stops in Progreso and Cozumel. Passengers may explore the ports on their own, take tours of the Mayan ruins in the area, or relax on the beaches.

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