Upping sticks and moving your digital nomad career to Mexico is going to be on the bucket list of plenty of people who love this lifestyle.

But as with any new country, there are things to know before you go which will make the transition smoother.

Take the following tips onboard, and you’ll be set up for success in this sunny nation.

Tips, Tricks, and Secrets – Consider These 5 Things As a Digital Nomad in Mexico

Decoding Digital Connectivity in Mexico

All digital nomads know that reliable internet is non-negotiable. In Mexico, connectivity can vary dramatically depending on your location.

Urban areas like Mexico City or Guadalajara usually feature strong Wi-Fi connections and lots of co-working spaces. More rural regions may pose a challenge, however.

It’s best to investigate network coverage maps before deciding on your exact location, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. Also, consider investing in an international phone plan for backup internet access if needed.

Analyzing Cost of Living Differences

It’s a good idea to look into the average costs in Mexico as an expat. Though typically less expensive than many western countries, the cost of living can still vary greatly from city to city, with tourist areas generally being more costly.

Savvy interlopers should examine typical expenses like rent, groceries, transportation and entertainment in your desired location for a realistic picture of what you’ll be spending each month.

Also aim to allow yourself some leeway in your budget for unplanned expenses or experiences.

Understanding Language Barriers

Though many Mexicans in larger urban areas speak English, don’t bank solely on others’ bilingualism. If you’re not fluent in Spanish, it will be worthwhile to learn basic phrases and polite responses.

There’s an added layer of cultural respect when foreigners make an effort to communicate in the local language. So keep translation apps or a pocket dictionary hand for navigating more complex conversations with ease.

And of course learning Spanish can also open up a whole world of authentic local experiences, so it’s doubly worthwhile.

Exploring Local Workspaces and Cafes

Finding suitable locations to work is an essential part of the digital nomad lifestyle. And while you might be tempted to simply hunker down in your apartment and get on with the business of the day, this somewhat defeats the point of traveling to new and exciting places such as Mexico in the first place.

Aside from looking into shared workspaces which are commonly encountered in built-up areas across the country, also consider the cafe culture that’s on offer here.

There are lots of hotspots in Mexico City which could be ideal for working as well as enjoying locally grown coffee, all while getting to know the people who live in the area.

Staying Safe: Health and Security Tips

Your health and security should always be top priorities, wherever you roam. Bear in mind these vital tips as a digital nomad in Mexico:

• Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when working with expensive equipment like laptops or cameras.
• Use registered taxis or reliable ride-sharing services.
• Keep emergency numbers saved for immediate access.
• Regularly update friends or family back home about your whereabouts.
• Avoid isolated areas during the hours of darkness, and don’t flash expensive belongings in public to avoid unnecessary attention.

With regards to health:

• Invest time into understanding the local healthcare system for emergencies, prescription medicines, and so forth. If you’ve got a pre-existing condition, this is doubly important.
• Always carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptics and pain relievers.
• Stick with bottled water. It’s safer than tap water, which is particularly problematic in major cities.

The Last Word

If you have the opportunity to speak to other digital nomads who already have experience of life in Mexico, don’t hesitate to listen to their advice. It’s the quickest way to get specific tips for your own trip.

Plenty of digital nomad Mexico groups exist on platforms like Facebook and are easy to join.