Tip 5: Be Patient When It Comes To the Internet in Mexico

The internet I've used is slow and bipolar. Good luck!

I won’t mince words on this one: the internet in Mexico is the second-worst I’ve ever used anywhere in the world. Only the Maldives beats it and the Maldives, at least, had the excuse of being remote. I’m currently living in a bustling beach town, not far from the U.S. border.

Everyone here complains about the internet and only a few people have found solutions that work. I now have the best connection I’ve had since moving to Mexico for the winter, but it still pales in comparison to my cellphone on just two bars in America.

How To Get Online in Mexico

The good news is that free and public internet is easy to come by—it may be even easier than in America. This is especially true in tourist areas and big cities. So, what can you do to stay connected? These are my top tips:

• Verify that your RV park, hotel, or Airbnb has a working WiFi connection.

• Verify with your existing carrier whether your phone will work in Mexico and to what degree.

• Bring a burner phone to Mexico, buy a Mexican SIM card, and purchase data.

• Support local businesses and get their WiFi passwords while you’re there.

• Install semi-permanent or permanent internet if you can or make friends with someone who has done so.

• Spend more time at the beach and less time online or working.

LESSON: You need an open mind and a flexible schedule to work in Mexico. I’ve had the internet just take off on vacation for 48 hours or more.

TIP: You can buy 12 GB of data from TelCel for 500 pesos (roughly US $30). It lasts for 30 days and also includes free social media browsing and calls to the U.S.

If you’re a paid subscriber, tomorrow you’ll receive a second email sharing details on where to get high-speed internet specifically when visiting Rocky Point in Sonora, Mexico.

Otherwise, see you next week!

— Alexis Chateau