Crossing The Border
When I first started thinking about crossing into Mexico, the question on my mind wasn’t just “What can I bring?” but “What do I need to get through customs without a hitch?” I spent hours researching everything from border crossing lists and customs regulations to what to expect while traveling with dogs. Some people breezed through without issues, while others faced car inspections, paperwork delays, and unexpected fees
I was certain I was overprepared, packing only what was allowed and having everything in order. What could possibly go wrong?
Well… let’s just say, I wasn’t surprised.
What I Packed and Why
I didn’t want to overpack, but I needed to be ready for life on the road—sleeping in my car, working on the way down, and exploring Mexico with no home to return to. My plan was to keep it simple, but I had to think through what I might need for the next few months. Here’s what made the cut:
•My two dogs, Kassi and Kira: Their needs came first. I made sure their rabies shots and paperwork were up-to-date. Even though the process had changed and a health certificate was no longer required, I brought them anyway. Dogs were now required to be individually inspected prior to entering Mexico.
I also packed just enough dog food for a few days, knowing Mexican regulations were different and it could be confiscated at the border.
- Food and Specialty Items: I brought specialty items like bamboo and coconut flour, knowing they might be hard to find in Mexico.
I also packed spices, avoiding anything restricted like dried fruits or herbs. - Camping and Personal Gear: My compact SUV was packed with clothes, blankets, a few electronics, and cooking essentials. I also had a rooftop carrier stuffed to the brim.
I minimized my packing as much as possible while ensuring I had everything I would need for my time there and on the road. I tried to be mindful of my budget and didn’t want to repurchase needed items I already owned.
I even tossed out my pocket knife and kitchen knife before reaching the border—nothing was left to chance.
The Laredo Border Crossing:
I planned to hit the border at 6 or 7 AM, but after a stop for a shower at Planet Fitness, breakfast, and gas, I didn’t actually arrive until nearly 9 AM. Big mistake—the lines were already long.
The first booth was easy enough to pass through, and everything seemed to be going smoothly.
When I reached the inspection point in Mexico, this was where I expected delays. The agent who greeted me spoke very little English, and we fumbled through communication using Google Translate. He was polite, though, and quickly called over a colleague who spoke a bit more English to assist. Although I had left the back seats clear for the dogs, the rest of the car was packed to the brim, and my rooftop bag looked ready to burst. I was bracing for a thorough check, but the inspection wasn’t what I expected at all. The second agent unzipped the rooftop carrier just a few inches, peeked inside, and then simply waved me through. He gave me quick directions to the FMM office and wished me a good day.
I thought, This can’t be right. This is not my life. This was too easy… What are the chances things really would be that simple?
Lost in Mexico:
Not likely. Here’s where things went sideways a bit. I was trying to find the FMM office, following the officer’s directions. There were no signs in English, and I was expecting to exit the huge metal customs gate into a business office area, but instead, I ended up in a residential neighborhood, hoping to see some indication of where to go.
I stopped at a building that looked like it might be an insurance office and asked for directions. The gentleman was helpful, but his guidance left me more confused than before. He directed me down a road along the water that seemed to be in the opposite direction of where the officer had told me to go.
I ended up driving for about 10 minutes before being pretty certain this wasn’t right. I did a U-turn and headed back. However, I found out the road he had sent me on was essentially a road that only led away from the border or back to the border. I was now heading toward the U.S.
Border Pong Anyone ?
After another hour-plus in line, I reached the border booth. The officer seemed suspicious that I didn’t have friends or family in Mexico, even though I told him I had an Airbnb booked in Morelia. I explained what had happened and all I wanted was to turn around and head back to Mexico. I stayed honest and patient, but things didn’t seem to improve.
The U.S. officer, still unsure about me, directed me toward what he said would be a quick check. The joke was on me—it was a full-scale search. Every single item in my car was run through the X-ray machine. My dogs were tied to a post, watching every move as they thoroughly searched everything. Honestly, this is what I had prepared for, and what should happen when people are coming into the country with so much stuff.
The officers seemed a bit surprised I wasn’t upset. I just kept apologizing for the mess and the extra work I was creating for them. About an hour later, I was sent back into Mexico, only to be flagged down again for a second inspection.
Here We Go Again:
I was initially pulled over by an older gentleman. But what are the chances that the officer who had initially helped me would recognize me as I pulled in? He spotted me from several spaces away and came over. He let the other man know he could leave and asked what happened. I told him my story, and we both sort of laughed about it. He had been kind earlier, and now he took the time to ensure I had the proper directions to the FMM office. He even entered the address into my phone and ensured I wouldn’t get lost again.
If I had just entered the address into Google Maps in the first place, I would’ve been at the office in just a few minutes. But after all the confusion, I finally made my way to the right place.
Navigating the FMM office
When I arrived at the FMM office, I was met with patient and helpful staff members at each of the three windows I had to go to. I explained each time that I had two dogs in the car, I was concerned about the heat even with the windows half open, two USB fans running for extra circulation and I had already checked on them twice. Since I had to pass my car to get to each building, I checked on them every time.
At the third stop, the staff member was especially understanding and sympathetic. She even rushed through the paperwork, making sure I could get back to my dogs as soon as possible.
After receiving the necessary paperwork, I was out of there… but wait a minute, what about the dog inspection? No one I told about the dogs mentioned it. Should I go back and ask about it? Nope, I let it go and headed to the car.
Safety First:
Here’s the part of the story that really made me appreciate the thoughtfulness and consideration for safety. On the way to the car, I was approached by a police officer who offered me the option to join a caravan that would escort me 25 miles into Mexico. The idea was that the caravan would provide safety, given concerns about criminal activity in the area. I was hesitant at first, hearing other people’s warnings echo in my head. But I decided it was better to be cautious with an escort than without one.
I was glad I accepted. There were six other cars in this caravan. We followed the officers to the first checkpoint. I felt much more at ease, knowing that I wasn’t driving through this area alone. The ride was peaceful, and once we passed the checkpoint, I was on my own to drive at my own pace and enjoy the view.
A Journey Full Of Lessons:
The border crossing was just one part of my journey, but it was definitely one of the most memorable. The unexpected delays, the challenges, and the kind people I encountered along the way were all part of the process.
What did I learn? Sometimes, the best decision is to accept help when it’s offered, especially when it’s for your safety. Trust that the hardest part is getting through it. Once you’re past the border, the road ahead (literally and figuratively) is yours.
What Comes Next:
We made it through the border so all that’s left is the road trip to Morelia, easy enough right?
What are the chances…? Well, let’s find out together
Want More Info?
Driving to Mexico in 2025? Here are some helpful links to prepare:
Customs Declarations & Regulations
Some Documents You’ll Need:
- U.S. Passport
- Proof of Automobile Registration
- Entry Permit (FMM) – Recommended if staying longer than 30 days.
- Address of the FMM Office in Laredo – Lincoln/Juarez Bridge, Administrative Bldg. #2, Laredo, TX.
“Want more details? Watch the full video for extra insights, visuals, and the full journey.”
“Missed the first part? Here’s how I ended up heading to Mexico in the first place!”
“From near -misses to unexpected kindness – see how my road trip through Mexico wraps up. Watch the full journey below
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