Mexico is often seen as an affordable destination, but if you don’t watch your spending, it’s easy to lose track of your budget. The good news is, with some planning and a few handy tips, you can travel around Mexico on a budget without missing out on the experience. Here’s how you can save money on accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions and make the most of this stunning country without breaking the bank.
Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
Mexico is huge, and while some destinations are more popular and pricey, there are plenty of places where you can experience just as much for less money. Instead of heading straight to Playa del Carmen or Tulum, consider spots like Oaxaca, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Guadalajara, or Puebla. These cities are rich in culture, architecture, and history, and they’re much more affordable, especially when it comes to accommodation and food.
Oaxaca
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Oaxaca is famous for its vibrant festivals, delicious cuisine, and beautiful colonial architecture. Oaxaca City itself is extremely walkable, and you’ll find a range of cheap eats in markets and street stalls. The surrounding area is also full of natural beauty, like Hierve el Agua, which you can visit cheaply by local bus.
San Cristóbal de las Casas
This town in the Chiapas region is a backpacker’s dream. You’ll find budget hostels, affordable food options, and local handicraft markets. Don’t miss the nearby Sumidero Canyon for a budget-friendly day trip.
Puebla
Located only two hours from Mexico City, Puebla is a foodie’s paradise. It’s where the famous mole was invented, and you’ll find plenty of street food and local restaurants offering good deals. Plus, the city is packed with colonial charm and has many free things to see.
Accommodation: How to Save
Whether you book your accommodation in advance or stay spontaneous, there are plenty of cheap options throughout Mexico. Here are a few options that will help you save:
Stay in Hostels

Mexican hostels are usually very affordable, especially in less touristy parts of the country. You’ll find dorm beds for as low as $10 USD in many places. Some popular hostels also include free breakfast, which can help cut down your daily costs further.
Use Airbnbs
If you’re traveling in a group or don’t mind a little more privacy, Airbnbs are a great option. In less touristy cities, you’ll find entire apartments or houses for very cheap rates. This is especially useful if you’re staying for a few days and want to cook your own meals.
Couchsurfing
If you’re really looking to save, Couchsurfing can get you free accommodation with locals. Although Couchsurfing isn’t as big in Mexico as it is in Europe, you will still find many hosts who love meeting travelers. It’s also a great way to connect with locals and get insider tips.
Saving on Food
Mexico has one of the richest food cultures in the world, and luckily for budget travelers, you don’t have to spend much to eat well here. Stick to street food and local markets, and you’ll save big without sacrificing quality.
Eat Street Tacos
Tacos are synonymous with Mexican food, and luckily, they don’t cost much! You can find tacos almost anywhere in Mexico and they’re often around $1 USD per taco. Grab a handful for a full meal, and you’re still spending less than $5 USD.
Go to Local Markets
Markets like Mercado de Medellín in Mexico City or Mercado 20 de Noviembre in Oaxaca offer cheap, local food. Whether it’s fruit, tamales, or grilled meats, you’ll find something affordable and tasty. Plus, you can stock up on snacks for later.

Cook Your Own Meals
If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, cooking your own meals can be a great way to save some money, especially if you go to supermarkets or local stores instead of touristy areas. This works particularly well if you’re traveling as a group.
Transportation on a Budget
Traveling around Mexico doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of options for getting around the country without spending too much.
Use the Local Bus System
Mexico has an extensive and affordable bus system. For longer distances, buses are more comfortable than you may think, with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and charging ports. Companies like ADO and Primera Plus are well-rated and cheap. On shorter routes within cities or close-by towns, take the local collectivos, which are minivans used by locals. They’re incredibly cheap and go just about everywhere.
Carpool with BlaBlaCar
BlaBlaCar is a rideshare app where you can catch a ride with locals traveling between cities. It’s often cheaper than taking the bus, and it’s a great way to meet people and get insider tips along the way.

Walk or Bike
Mexican cities, especially smaller towns or city centers, are very walkable. Skip taxis or Ubers and rely on your feet or rent a bike if available. You’ll save money, and walking is one of the best ways to get a feel for the vibe of a place.
Use Uber in Cities
If you do need to take a taxi, use Uber for a safer and cheaper alternative. It’s available in many major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. In most cases, it’s more affordable than traditional taxis.
Free and Cheap Things to Do
There are countless ways to explore Mexico without spending a lot. Many of the best experiences are free or incredibly cheap.

Visit Public Beaches
The great thing about Mexico’s beaches – most of them are free! There’s no need to book an expensive resort package. Public beaches in places like Puerto Escondido, Mazunte, or Sayulita are beautiful and won’t cost you a thing. Bring your own snacks and drinks to save even more.
Explore Public Parks
Cities like Mexico City or Guadalajara have lovely parks that are completely free to explore. In Mexico City, head to Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world. You can find free festivals, museums, and plenty of green space to relax in. Many Mexican cities also have lovely zócalos (main squares), where you can soak up the local atmosphere for free.
Check Out Free Museums
Some museums in Mexico have free days or are always free. The Museo Soumaya in Mexico City is always free and houses an impressive collection of art. Keep an eye out for national holidays, as many attractions offer free entry on those days too.
Watch Street Performances
Larger cities have vibrant street performance scenes. From mariachi in Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi to traditional folk dancers, you’ll find plenty of entertainment just by walking around – and it’s often free or for a minimal tip.
Join Free Walking Tours
Many cities offer free walking tours. They’re a great way to get the lay of the land and learn about the city’s history. Although free, it’s good practice to tip the guide what you feel is fair, but even then, it’s cheaper than paid tours.
More Tips to Stay on Budget
Outside of accommodation, food, and transportation, there are a few other ways you can pinch pennies while traveling in Mexico:
Learn Basic Spanish
Knowing a bit of Spanish can help you avoid tourist price hikes. When you speak the language, you’re less likely to get overcharged at local markets or taxis. Plus, locals really appreciate the effort, and you often get better deals as a result.
Haggle at Markets
Haggling is part of the culture in many markets, especially when buying souvenirs. Never accept the first price offered. Politely negotiate for a better deal. Just be respectful and don’t push too hard; the goal is to agree on a price that feels fair for both you and the seller.
Travel in the Off-Season
Traveling during the off-season is one of the best ways to save on everything. Between May and September, flights, accommodation, and tours are often much cheaper since fewer tourists are visiting. Temperatures can be a bit hotter, but many places will be less crowded too.
Final Thoughts
Traveling around Mexico on a budget is absolutely possible, and with a bit of thought, you can save a lot using these tips. From cheap food to affordable buses and plenty of free activities, Mexico is a paradise for budget travelers. Focus on making your money last longer without skipping the really cool experiences. Enjoy your time in Mexico without worrying about overspending!
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