Get your passport. You need a valid passport to visit Mexico now that the U.S. laws have changed. Be sure that you have your passport and copies of all pages in your passport before attempting a border crossing. Even the blank pages!
Make sure your vehicle paperwork is in order. You should have the original title in your name and registration, as well as copies of both. Make sure that the paperwork is valid.
Choose a good time to cross the border. There are many locations to choose from when crossing the border from the United States into Mexico. The best time to go is when you are well-rested, fed and have cold drinks in the car. Border crossings can be fast and easy or they can take all day. You'll never know until you get there and being cranky won't help you.
Buy Mexican car insurance. You will need insurance before you cross the border because most likely, your current insurance doesn't cover what happens in Mexico. There are many places in border towns where you can buy insurance. You will see billboards and signs as soon as you near the border. You can also stop and ask around to find the best place to buy it. Keep it with you and not in your car.
Maintain a positive, friendly attitude. If your car is searched, be cooperative and friendly. Do not be rude or scowl or make snide remarks. If you keep a smile on your face and try to be helpful, you will find that the experience will go much more smoothly,
