Safety
Despite the negative perceptions concerning violence and crime in Mexico, you can still enjoy your time whilst exercising caution during your trip. Tourists are easily targeted by pickpockets however are usually safe from the more serious crimes. When travelling alone or in a small group, take care with your belongings. Do not display your valuables or large amounts of cash in public. If possible, keep all valuables at your front where you can keep an eye on them and keep bags zipped and secured. When leaving valuables in your apartment or hotel room, place them out of sight and at a safe distance from windows for extra security. Whilst some states are safe to travel between by car or bus, others are not. Although flying may be more expensive, it is much quicker and can be a better option to avoid car/road related violence.
The Australia Government has safety information available online. As of 2015 they advise Australians to exercise a high degree of caution whilst travelling in Mexico, as well as encouraging avoidance of the states Michoacán, Guerrero and Tamaulipas. A comprehensive look at Australian governmental advice can be found at Smart Traveller. Also Go Mexico has valuable tips on how to stay safe whilst travelling in Mexico and is worth a look.
Important documents
Be sure to make copies of your passport/visa/credit cards and any other valuable identification before your trip. Leave a copy with someone at home and have a copy on your email so it is easily accessible if needed. Take care with passports whilst travelling as they can be a valuable item to thieves. In the instance that you lose or have your documents stolen you can obtain an emergency passport or new passport (depending on your length of stay remaining) from the Australian Embassy. Having required documents easily accessible before you leave is also a good idea. This can include birth certificates or citizenship documents. Having copies of these documents on hand makes the process fairly quick and less stressful. If needed, you can call the Australian Embassy in Mexico on this number: +52 55 1101 2200. All services are available in English and the staff are friendly and efficient.
The Australian Embassy is located in Mexico City at the following address:
Ruben Dario 55, Col. Bosque de Chapultepec, C.P. 11580, Mexico DF
Telephone: +52 55 1101 2200
Fax: 1101 2201
Visas (001) 613-238-1040