When traveling in Mexico, remember that you are a guest in another country. All La Ruta travelers are expected to be respectful of Mexican laws and traditions. To make your vacation a pleasant experience, please consider these 12 travel tips.

1. Carry proper identification with you. Proper ID includes a birth certificate, voter registration, current passport, military ID, alien resident card, or a notarized affidavit of citizenship. International students should carry their visas and other important documents at all times.
   
   
2. Puerto Penãsco and Nogales are considered duty free zones. If you travel beyond these areas (e.g. Caborca), you will be required to provide additional information to border officials. Proper documents must be obtained before you leave the duty free zone. These documents can be obtained in cities along the border, including Nogales, San Luis, and Sonoyta. Beginning in 1999, please be advised that the Mexican government imposed a $15.00 fee for traveling within certain areas of Mexico.
   
   
3. If you plan to drive in Mexico, carry your vehicle's proof of ownership with you.
   
   
4. If you rent a vehicle, make certain that the rental car company allows it to go into Mexico.
   
   
5. Buy Mexican auto insurance if you plan to drive in Mexico. Most U.S. car insurance policies do not cover trips to Mexico.
   
   
6. Bring cash to pay for gasoline. Mexican gas stations do not accept credit cards.
   
   
7. Outside of major tourist areas, it is recommended that travelers drink bottled water. In tourist areas, like Puerto Peñasco, bottled water is provided in hotel rooms.
   
   
8. Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables from street vendors. These foods are generally safe to eat in restaurants located in towns and cities.
   
   
9. If you are driving in Mexico, note that "ALTO" means "STOP." "PELIGRO" means "DANGER."
   
   
10. Become acquainted with basic Mexican driving rules. For example, signaling with your left blinker does not necessarily mean you intend to turn left. Instead, a left signal can indicate to the driver behind you that it is safe for them to pass your vehicle. Travelers are also advised not to drive on Mexican highways after dark, as the roads may be narrow and not well lit. The exception to this rule is the road from Lukeville to Puerto Peñasco. This well-traveled road has been widened and is now quite safe to drive after dark.
    
    
11. If you plan to bring a pet, know that pets are usually allowed into Mexico with verification of rabies vaccination within the last six (6) months.
    
    
12. To re-enter the U.S., American citizens/residents must declare citizenship and purchases. Merchandise up to $400 per person is duty-free. One quart of liquor and one carton of cigarettes are also allowed duty-free. Purchases exceeding $400 will be taxed.