Security Alert: Countrywide (Mexico), Spring Break Travel

19 MINUTE READ

March 2, 2026

Message to U.S. Citizens: Spring Break Travel

Event: Spring Break Travel

Location: Mexico

Travel Smart – Be Informed:  

Every year, thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break.  While the widespread violence that took place on February 22 following Mexican security operations has ended, risks of crime and kidnapping remain.  Please read our state-by-state Travel Advisory when deciding whether to travel to Mexico and where to go. Visitors should also consider the following when planning their vacation or traveling in Mexico:

Crisis Preparedness: Crises can occur anywhere and can affect popular vacation destinations. Be prepared, be safe and stay connected. Enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ) to receive critical safety and security updates.
Crime: Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. This includes homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. U.S. citizens should exercise caution in popular spring break spots, especially after dark.
Drugs: Drug possession and use, including of medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence. U.S. citizens have died or suffered severe illness after using synthetic drugs or fake prescription pills.
Vaping Devices: Don’t bring them. It is illegal to bring any vaping device or e-cigarettes, pods, or e-liquid into Mexico. Penalties can range from confiscation of the items, fines of over $10,000, or arrest.
Weapons, ammunition, and shell casings: U.S. permits to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico. Bringing firearms, ammunition, cartridges, empty shell casings, knives, fireworks or explosives, knives and swords, or brass knuckles into Mexico is a serious crime. Violations can lead to large fines or lengthy imprisonment. Before traveling, check your bags and/or vehicle to make sure you’re not carrying anything that can get you in trouble.
Medical Emergencies: Private hospital prices can be higher than in the U.S. and may require upfront payment. Make sure your health or travel insurance cover care outside the United States.
Drinking and Unregulated Alcohol: Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have lost consciousness or been injured after consuming tainted alcohol. Guard against someone spiking your drink – don’t leave beverages unattended or accept them from strangers. Watch your drink being prepared. In Mexico, it is illegal to be drunk and disorderly, to urinate in public, or to have open alcohol containers in vehicles.  
Pharmaceuticals: Counterfeit medication is common and may be ineffective or dangerous.  Buy medication from reputable pharmacies.
Sexual Assault: U.S. citizens have been victims of rape and sexual assault.  Perpetrators may target drunk or isolated individuals or use drugs that alter the victim’s physical or mental state.
Drowning: Some beaches have strong currents and rip tides.  Beaches may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions. Do not swim alone, after drinking, or when red flags indicate dangerous conditions.
Excursions and Rentals: Make sure your tour operator carries safety equipment, such as life jackets and radios, and accident insurance. Do not hand over your U.S. passport as collateral for vehicle rentals. Take photographs and videos of the car’s or ATV’s condition when you rent it.
Extortion and Scams: Extortion scams are common, including virtual kidnappings. Do not share your travel plans, hotel information, or personal details with strangers or on social media. Common scams include requests for you to help with a money transfer, online “friends” asking for money, or promises of a free trip. Scammers may use social media for criminal purposes, so exercise caution if meeting someone you only know online. If you are a victim of extortion or a scam, file a police report.

Actions to Take:

Read the Mexico Travel Advisory  and Country Information Page  for travel details and entry requirements.
Carry your passport and make sure it hasn’t expired. You cannot board an international plane without a passport.
Enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  to receive safety updates and to help the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate contact you in an emergency.  Call 911 in an emergency.  Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.
Drink responsibly and seek medical attention if you feel ill. Report unregulated or contaminated alcohol to COFEPRIS by filing a report online  at the COFEPRIS website or calling the COFEPRIS call center at +52 01-800-033-5050.
Monitor your credit or debit card accounts for unauthorized transactions. Limit the amount of cash you carry, be cautious when withdrawing funds from an ATM, and avoid isolated ATMs.
Protect your personal possessions on public transportation. Use official airport taxi stands, or app-based services like Uber and Cabify.
Tell your friends and family about your travel plans, especially if traveling alone. Drive only during daylight hours.
In Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, or other areas in Quintana Roo, download the “Guest Assist” app for emergency services and assistance.
See our advice for cruise passengers , particularly those with underlying health conditions.
Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you need assistance.