(CC photo by PatterBT courtesy of Flickr)

You’ve done the research, found some great tourist attractions and wonder what’s left to solidify your trip to mexico. If you are living in the United States, you better have a passport ready. There have been several changes made for traveling over the border and nothing will ruin plans faster than not having the necessary paperwork for crossing into Mexico and returning to your homeland. Not to worry though, here is the information you need.

(CC photo by Clappstar courtesy of Flickr)

Anyone traveling by air, outside the borders of the United States, are now required to carry a passport. Other travel documents which are acceptable include a birth certificate and driver’s license. Children under the age of 19 years are only required to show a birth certificate. Anyone traveling by sea and land must have the same items as air travel, however, a U.S. passport card can also be utilized to expedite the process. This passport card is not valid for air travel. This new passport card is both more convenient and cheaper than the traditional passport book.

(CC photo by Willem van Bergen courtesy of Flickr)

Make sure to apply for your passport well in advance of your trip. The process can take up to six weeks and while you can request expedited service, you are going to pay much more than is necessary. However, should you need prompt service, contact the National Passport Information Center to see how to receive your passport quickly.

Once your passport, your passport card, or whatever other paperwork is needed, is ready there are still some problems that can arise when entering Mexico. Here are some of the items that can ruin a wonderful vacation before it has a chance to begin.

(CC photo by Jeremy & Taylor courtesy of Flickr)

Some food items can pose concern, namely seeds and plant items. Simplify your life by leaving them at home. Cigars and cigarettes are limited to 20 packs per person. You can only bring twelve rolls of film or twelve cassettes for audio. Digital cameras are definitely the way to go if you’re an avid photographer. Liquor is limited to three liters per person. Medication requires a prescription. No illegal drugs are tolerated, as well as firearms. The exception to the rule are hunting weaponry, but you must obtain permission through the mexican Consulate well in advance of your travels.

While international travel can be confusing and unsettling, a visit to the U.S. homeland security site will eliminate most of your questions and concerns. If all else fails a call to the local office can result in a friendly consultation to answer your questions. By far, the beauty of Mexico and the fun to be had is absolutely worth any of the difficulties sometimes experienced in obtaining the appropriate paperwork.

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