How do I make a phone call and access the Internet while traveling in Mexico?
Mexico, the 7th most visited country in the world, is a popular destination for those wishing to travel and discover incredible landscapes, a rich culture and atypical gastronomy. Its landscapes of high plateaus surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains and long white-sand beaches such as Tulum and Akumal make it a destination to suit all tastes.
In short, you’ve made up your mind to go to this dream country. The problem? To make the most of your stay, you absolutely must have reliable Internet access and be able to use all your phone’s functions.
So we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for staying connected in Mexico.
How to phone and surf in Mexico: the best options
There are many ways to make calls and access the Internet while traveling in North America. Here are the main ones:
Local SIM card
- Buying a local SIM card is one of the most popular and economical options.
- Advantages: low rates, good network coverage, access to 4 G/5 G.
- Disadvantages: you’ll need an unlocked phone, which you’ll probably have to buy locally.
- Where can you buy it? In operator stores (Telcel, AT&T, Movistar), but also in kiosks at Mexico City and Bénito Juárez international airports. Some supermarkets also sell them. The big chains are Chedraui, Soriana and Walmart.
- How to recharge? In stores such as OXXO, pharmacies, service stations or via mobile applications.
eSIM
eSIM is a digital solution that enables you to activate a mobile package without having to insert a physical card.
- Advantages: You can buy it online before departure. Instant activation, no physical card required.
- Disadvantages : Only compatible with certain smartphones.
- Ideal for whom? : Frequent travelers and those who want to avoid buying a SIM card on the spot.
Roaming (international roaming)
Using your French package while roaming is a simple but often costly solution.
- Advantages: no need to change SIM card.
- Disadvantages: high costs and low throughput.
- Average cost : Check with your operator, but charges can be several euros per MB used.
Pocket WiFi
A mobile router that you can rent before you leave to have Internet access everywhere.
- Benefits: A shared connection for multiple devices.
- Disadvantages: High cost and need for recharging.
- Where to rent? Specialized companies such as Tep Wireless, Skyroam or directly at some airports.
Public WiFi hotspots
Mexico offers many free WiFi access points, especially in hotels, restaurants and airports.
- Advantage: Totally free!
- Disadvantages: The connection is often slow and, above all, insecure.
- Tip: Use a VPN to protect your data.
What's the best way to make calls and use the Internet in Mexico?
The best solution for getting connected in Mexico depends above all on your needs! A tailor-made solution that really fits in with your stay, where you only pay for what you need while combining the advantages of local packages with the foresight of prepaid packages, is often a wise choice.
There are SIM cards specially designed for travellers, with several advantages:
- Prepaid plan with no commitment: you only pay for what you need.
- Optimum coverage: SIM cards use the networks of top Mexican operators like Telcel and AT&T.
- Flexible plans: various data (from 1 GB to unlimited) and call options are available.
- Pre-departure activation: you receive your SIM card at home before you leave, and activate it as soon as you arrive in Mexico.
- Customer service in French: handy in case of problems or questions.
- Ideal for short and long stays: options for business travelers, vacationers and temporary expatriates.
Setting up your phone before leaving for Mexico
Check that your phone is unlocked
Before buying a local SIM card or eSIM, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Mexican networks.
Set roaming parameters
Deactivate mobile data abroad to avoid surprise charges if you opt for a local solution.
Download useful applications
- WhatsApp: Communicate for free with friends and family back home.
- Google Maps / Maps.me: Keep your GPS even when navigating offline.
- Google Translate: To translate into Spanish when needed.
- A VPN application: to secure your connection if you use free WiFi.
Who are the best operators in Mexico?
The three main operators in Mexico are :
- Telcel: Better coverage, especially in rural areas.
- AT&T Mexico: A good alternative if you’re staying in an urban environment.
- Movistar: Cheaper, but more limited coverage.
To choose the best operator, you need to think about your needs.
- If you travel everywhere: Telcel.
- If you’re staying in town: AT&T or Movistar.
- If you’re looking for an economical solution: eSIM with a data-only package.
- If you want a turnkey, reliable solution: a prepaid SIM card like the one from SIM USA.
How much does a mobile connection cost in Mexico?
- Local SIM card: approx. 200-500 Mexican pesos (€7 to €23) depending on package.
- eSIM: between €20 and €50 depending on the duration and amount of data used during your stay.
- Roaming: can cost hundreds of euros!
- Pocket WiFi: approx. €5-10/day.
- Data recharge: 100-300 MXN (€4.50 to €14) for 5 to 10 GB.
7 tips for a secure and inexpensive connection in Mexico
- Anticipate your needs!
- Choose a prepaid package to cut costs.
- Use WhatsApp for free calls and SMS via WiFi.
- Install a VPN to secure your connections to public hotspots.
- Think about your top-up needs (with SIM USA, it’s easy, just click here).
- Activate airplane mode and use WiFi to avoid inadvertent consumption of mobile data.
- Anticipate your travels. You’ll also find all our advice on managing your GPS.
Whether you’re going on a road trip or on a less itinerant holiday, reliable Internet and cell phone access in Mexico is a must. Between local SIM cards, eSIM and Pocket WiFi, it’s up to you to choose the option that best suits your needs and budget. Enjoy your trip and stay connected!
