RVing in Baja California

If you are a nomadic RV enthusiast on the lookout for a thrilling new spot to explore, then Baja California should be high on your priority list! This gorgeous location offers a variety of breathtaking desert landscapes to explore, as well as unique and uneven coastal scenery to appreciate. Additionally there are an abundance of enjoyable activities and attractions eagerly waiting for your arrival. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your RV and hit the road for Baja California.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you're contemplating the prospect of RVing in Baja California, there are a few things you should acquaint yourself with beforehand. For starters, the region can be considerably isolated. This means it is pivotal to make certain you are well-equipped with necessary provisions and gasoline.

Now despite the border crossing into Mexico being effortless, it is advisable to verify the latest travel advisories prior to departing. Once you have arrived in Baja California there are a few prudent safety precautions to keep in mind.

It is best to stick to frequently traveled roads and abstain from driving during the night. Ensuring that someone is aware of your travel itinerary and regularly checking in is a safety precaution that should always be taken.

It can be challenging to locate gas/petrol stations in certain areas of Baja California, so strategic mapping out of your route and generously refilling your fuel tank at every opportunity is crucial.

Nevertheless, with a little research and preparation, RVing in Baja California can be a fulfilling and safe experience. By adopting these basic suggestions you can set the stage for a gratifying and entertaining RV journey in Baja California.

How to Choose the Right RV Rental

When opting for an RV rental there are some critical factors to bear in mind to guarantee a pleasant and comfortable journey. Initially, contemplate on the important aspects of the RV. How many people will accompany you?

What is the required space for everyone to sleep comfortably? Do you prefer a designated area for dining or relaxation? After determining the approximate size of the RV, examine the fuel tank.

How long do you plan on driving daily? What is your preferred distance to cover? It's important to confirm that you have sufficient fuel to reach your destination without making excessive stops.

Lastly, think about the amenities that are significant to you. Do you require an onboard washroom? A kitchen? A television or entertainment system? By dedicating some time to assess your needs, you can be certain that you've made the appropriate RV rental selection for your excursion.

Essentials to have before you go

Setting out on an excursion can be an exciting process. It opens up countless ideas for discovery and adventure.

Nonetheless, prior to starting your expedition to Baja California, it is essential to ascertain that all the necessary belongings have been packed.

In order to expedite this undertaking, we have compiled a list of indispensable items to be included in your travel inventory:

• Water Jug: Staying hydrated is important, especially when you are exploring in the heat. A water jug will help you stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Reusable Cups: Packing reusable cups will help reduce waste while you are on your trip. You can fill up your cups with water or other drinks throughout the day.
• Guidebook of Baja: This guidebook will help you find the best places to explore in Baja. It includes maps and routes, as well as information on hotels and restaurants.
• Paper map: A paper map is always a good idea, even if you are using a GPS. Sometimes technology fails and it is nice to have a backup.
• Battery charger: Keeping your devices charged is important, especially if you are using them to navigate or take photos. A battery charger will help you keep your devices charged and ready to go.
• Cooler: Bringing a cooler can be a game-changer. Stocking up when the opportunity presents itself can prove advantageous. Supply your cooler with items that should be refrigeratorated or to keep fruits and veggies fresh.
• An added perk is that ice, which is typically sold for $1-2 dollars (depending on the vendor), can help keep your food fresh for an extended period of time.
• By choosing to cook your meals you can economize and potentially save a few bucks. However, this isn't to say that we didn't indulge in the local cuisine, as we savored the diverse culinary offerings of Baja. Although, cooking for ourselves allowed us to keep expenses in check.
• Get Insurance: Baja Bound is a great place to start to get insurance. Check with your current insurer to see if they offer insurance while you are traveling in Mexico and compare the rates.

The Best Places to Camp in Baja California

Baja California is a peninsula located in northwestern Mexico that is well-known for its magnificent beaches and desert landscapes. Camping in Baja is a favored means of experiencing the region, with numerous camping grounds and RV parks available for selection.

For those who prefer to have full hookups, there are various RV parks in Baja that provide such amenities. RV'ing and camping are exceptional ways to engross oneself in the region's nature and grand landscape. Not only is it away to connect with wildlife, but they are also cost-effective methods of travel.

Baja is immensely abundant in campsites, so it is crucial to conduct research prior to making a reservation.

For questions related to where to find campgrounds, the best beaches, the highest quality fuel, and the best fish tacos, my advice is to join a Facebook group for the area that you want to explore and ask in there. You can also find campgrounds in Mexico with a quick search on RV LIFE Campgrounds.

The Baja California Peninsula is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of the great outdoors. With dual coastal areas to select from, you are sure to discover the ideal spot for your upcoming camping escapade! The Sea of Cortez and Pacific Oceans provide exceptional opportunities for camping that will be forever etched in your mind.

The Explorer's Handbook For Camping Mexico's Baja is an invaluable resource for preparing your Baja Mexico vacation regardless of whether you choose to go by a pop-up tent camper, motorhome/camper van combo, or any other configuration. This manual encompasses all facets of camping in Baja including what to bring, where to go, and even scuba diving and angling advice.

In addition to the stunning ocean vistas and beaches, campers can also benefit from Baja's arid terrain. The rough terrain offers a unique camping experience with awe-inspiring rock formations, desert flowers, and animals.

Whether you're searching for a remote isolated location or a lively coastal campground with amenities, Baja has everything you need.

Tips for Driving in Baja California, Mexico

Fun fact there are paved roads in Baja California. Although, most of the roads we have encountered though are dirt. The main roads are paved for the most part but if you are traveling here, you are going to drive on some dirt roads. Enjoy the adventure but be prepared.

There are Some Quirky Things About Dirving in Mexico

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Don't Drive At Night

As a newbie to Baja, I read everything about this area of Mexico that I could find online. Every article said “don’t drive after dark” but no one explained why – other than maybe being kidnapped by criminals who often target foreign tourists.

Side Note: We haven't encountered and criminals who wanted to kidnap me or my wife or kids.

I am not saying that they do not exist but keeping to well traveled locations and being aware of your surroundings is paramount to staying safe anywhere you go or live.

The real reason you don't want to drive at night is that most of the highways run through some very rural areas.

Animals tend to graze at night due to it being to hot during the daylight hours. This combined with the abscense of street lights makes driving at night hazerdous and a task that should be avoded at all costs. It is sad to see a dead animls on the side of the road in the morning because someone hit them.

The damage to your car and to the animal is costly and is mostly avoidable by not driving at night.

Yes you read that right the abscense of street lights. Most areas outside of bigger towns such as Ensenada and Rosarito, do not have street lights. meaning when traveling between towns you will be more likely to encounter animals and people on the road.

It is just safer for all to not drive at night.

The Highways and Streets are Narrow

Baja's Highway 1 can be very narrow in spots. It gets used by 18 wheelers delivering goods from the north as well as Aquila buses, which are like Greyhounds. I recommend adjusting your speed when you come up behind another large vehicle so there isn't danger of collision.

Try to make sure you are not going around a curve next to one of these vehicles. Adjust your speed so that you are not in the curve when one of these vehicles is approaching you as well.

A little forethought and planning while you are driving will go a long way to ensuring you have a great time and very few if any incidents.

Hazards, Headlights, and the Left Turn Signal

In Mexico, the use of lights have a different meaning than what we are used to in the states. If the car in front of you suddenly puts on his hazard lights do not pass him. This usually means there is an obstruction in the road ahead and he has to slow down.

This is the custom and it alerts the person behind you not to pass.

This rule applies to all hazards that may be present ahead, from a tope (a huge speed bump that can be randomly placed anywhere, most of their placements don't make sense), to a goat or cow in the road ahead and every imaginable thing in between.

Headlights are used for a few different things flashing them on and off warns oncoming traffic that you just passed a hazard that they are approaching. Another use is to signal hi to a neighbor or friend.

This is very different from their use in the states where it usually means there is a speed trap or police officer ahead.

The left turn signal is used to signal that it is safe for you to pass the vehicle ahead of you. Now this use of the turn signal is usually accompanied by the vehicle ahead of you slowing down and moving to the right.

If they do not, then assume they are going to turn left and you shouldn't pass them.

This can be a confusing habit and very dangerous. If you want to turn left and the person behind you thinks its a signal they can pass an accident can occur. I use hand signal accompanied with my turn signal to let the person behind me know my intentions.

Distractions

The beauty of Baja is breathtaking. Every inch possesses an incredible scenic view, and it's easy to get distracted when you're driving. Since there are very few median dividers or shoulders on the road for protection, becoming distracted could prove to be fatal.

Pull over, stop, and enjoy the scenery. Then continue on your way do not let distracted driving ruin your amazing trip thorough Baja California.

Safety and security considerations while RVing in Mexico

You shouldn't avoid camping in Mexico due to fears of crime. Crime rates vary by city and region so it's important you research the area before going there.

You should only avoid RVing in Mexico if you find specific information about dangerous regions where you plan on going. For example: This would be like not visiting the US because of a news report about a crime that happened in Chicago. One cities crime rate should not deter you from visiting the entire rest of the country.

RV Parks in Baja California

I find that Mexico has some wonderful RV parks but they are also less organized than the ones in the U.S., which can be an interesting experience. You may have to deal with fluctuating electricity and water shut offs just to name just a few of the challenges.

But that is part of the adventure right?

RV-ing is all about breaking out of your comfort zone, so it's great when you meet incredible people along the way who share similar interests. Whether it's exploring new areas or experiencing different cultures, enjoy your time and try to be prepared for what this adventure is going to throw at you.

Mexico is a Massive Country and has Endless Areas to Explore

Now that you know all about RVing in Baja California, it’s time to start planning your trip! Keep the safety and security considerations in mind as you plan your route and make sure to have all the essentials before you go.

Choosing the right RV rental is important, you want something that’s comfortable and will fit all your needs. Finally, don’t forget to get insurance. Take your time during the planning phase of your trip so you can fully enjoy everything Baja California has to offer.

Ready to hit the road? Start planning today! Check out my Baja Road trip for some more locations to visit.