Mexican shopping is an experience every traveler needs to partake, and this guide has everything you need to know.
Shopping during Mexican travel allows you to experience local culture, buy unique souvenirs, support local artisans, and bring home memories of your travel experience.
In this guide, we will experience what it’s like to shop in Mexico. So, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful North American country, keep reading.
Mexican Shopping Basics
Mexican shopping is a fun experience with beautiful Mexico places to visit giving you a ton of choices. That said, though, there are a few things to know.
First of all, typical shopping hours are from 10 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Saturday. Many stores, especially in tourist areas, may stay open later.
On Sundays, smaller shops and markets often open later and close earlier, while malls and larger stores may remain open until 8 or 9 PM.
Meanwhile, Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). You will easily access through ATMs, exchange offices, and banks.
Credit and debit cards are widely acceptable in urban areas. That said, though, you might want to check with your issuer to see if foreign fees are included.
Of course, best practices include carrying cash for smaller purchases, avoiding street vendors for currency exchange, and using ATMs at trusted locations.
Finally, please remember that items may be cheaper if they are not imported. Typically, imported items are about twice what they cost in original countries.
Traditional Mexican Shopping
Shopping in Mexico is a unique cultural experience, with a mix of traditional markets and modern stores.
Definitely, shopping is something to do here between your taco experiences.
Large department stores give you access to a wide range of products, while small “tienditas” are key for everyday essentials.
Markets ae busy, and usually with fresh foods, crafts, and local goods, where bargaining is common.
Meanwhile, discounts and offers, especially during events like “Buen Fin,” attract shoppers with significant savings.
Of course, seasonal promotions, like those for Christmas or Mother’s Day, are popular.
All in all, Mexican shopping combines busy local culture with great opportunities to save and explore unique products.
Here are a few types to consider.
Shopping (Compras)
Shopping in Mexico is fun! You definitely should expect colors, scents, and sounds.
In both cities and small towns, people enjoy purchasing both traditional products and international brands.
Bargaining is common in markets or “tianguis” (open-air street markets), where customers try to get better prices.
Besides clothing and food, Mexicans value artisanal products. There are a ton of pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
While shopping in modern stores is quick and efficient, the charm of shopping in local markets or fairs give you a more personal experience.
You will be able to connect as a customer to the country’s unique cultural heritage.
Stores (Tiendas)
Stores in Mexico range from large international chains to small family-owned businesse
Big department stores like Liverpool or Sears present a wide variety of products, including clothing and electronics.
However, small local shops, known as “tienditas” or “tiendas de abarrotes,” are a staple in almost every neighborhood.
Tiendas stores sell everyday items like groceries, beverages, and cleaning products, and are crucial to daily life in Mexico.
Meanwhile, many specialty stores also offer unique artisanal goods. Expect leather products, textiles, or regional candies.
Mexican shopping, therefore, means a chance to access the famous craftsmanship and local traditions!
Markets (Mercados)
Markets in Mexico are lively hubs of activity. Vendors sell a wide range of products, from fresh food to crafts and clothing.
In markets like Mercado de la Merced in Mexico City or Mercado 28 in Cancún, expect to find diverse stuff. There are fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and herbs.
It’s also common to find artisanal products like piñatas, sombreros, and textiles.
Bargaining is a common practice in these markets. This allows you to negotiate prices and find great deals while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Mexican shopping wouldn’t be the same without markets. These are also really great places to experience the country’s amazing culinary and cultural heritage.
Discounts (Descuentos)
Discount stores play a major role in Mexican shopping, both in physical stores and online.
During certain seasons, such as “Buen Fin” in November, discounts may reach 50% or more on a variety of products, from clothing to electronics.
Grocery stores also frequently offer promotions, such as discounts on branded items or local products.
Meanwhile, special seasonal offers like Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day are excellent opportunities for shoppers to find bargains.
Discounts are a great way to save on quality products, whether you’re shopping for daily necessities or special purchases.
Offers (Ofertas)
Offers are a great incentive for your Mexican shopping. It gives you a chance to buy products at lower prices or with special promotions.
Common offers include “buy one, get one free” deals, discounts on select items, or coupon discounts.
Many stores have specific days dedicated to offers, such as “Miércoles de Ofertas” or “Viernes de Descuento.” These are where consumers find items at discounted rates.
Meanwhile, supermarkets, large retailers, and online stores regularly offer weekly or monthly sales.
Brands also use offers to introduce new products to the market. This allows customers to try them at a more affordable price, creating a win-win for both sides.
Mexican Shopping Online
Online in is increasingly popular option for Mexican shopping. Expect a wide variety of products from both local and international sellers.
Even if you’re there for the Mexican beaches, this is a modern country to shop!
Delivery services are efficient, and payment options are diverse. You will be able to pay with credit cards, bank transfers, and cash on delivery.
That said, though, delivery times and costs may vary depending on location.
Here are my favorite online places to shop in Mexico.
Mercado Libre
Mercado Libre is probably the leading e-commerce platform in Mexico and Latin America.
This company gives you access to a vast selection of products. Expect electronics, clothing, home goods, and more.
Its extensive seller network and user-friendly interface make it a popular choice for many shoppers.
Rappi
Rappi is another great platform for your Mexican shopping. This is a versatile app that not only delivers food but also allows users to shop for a lot of things.
Expect groceries, electronics, and other products. Plus, they deliver everything fast, including getting you cash from ATM!
Rappi has gained popularity as a go-to option for many consumers looking for a variety of items.
Coppel
Coppel is another great platform. In fact, it combines physical stores with online shopping experience.
Coppel has a variety of products, including clothing, electronics, and home goods, along with financing options.
This makes it accessible for many consumers.
Liverpool
Liverpool is a yet another popular department store in Mexico that also has a strong online presence.
It gives you access to a wide range of products, including fashion, electronics, and home decor.
Liverpool is definitely appealing to a diverse customer base.
US Companies
Mexican shopping online also means shopping with foreign companies. Amazon, Walmart, and Sears are all popular here.
You will have a convenient and diverse experience, giving you access a wide range of products from trusted retailers with reliable delivery options.
Mexican Shopping Items
Mexican shopping is definitely a unique mix of modern and traditional items, presenting something for everyone.
Clothing is colorful and diverse, including international brands in malls. You will also find locally crafted garments like embroidered blouses and woven ponchos.
Mexican footwear includes both high-quality artisan-made leather shoes, such as huaraches, and global shoe brands.
Similarly, electronics are widely available. Expect affordable local brands like Mabe to premium products from Apple and Samsung.
Home goods are also plentiful. They tend to feature colorful, handcrafted items such as terracotta pottery, embroidered textiles, and wooden furniture.
Mexican jewelry, particularly silver from Taxco, is popular for its beautiful designs and cultural significance.
And, you will have both traditional and contemporary styles to choose.
Beware of Mexico Shopping
For your Mexican shopping, it’s important to avoid a few common pitfalls to have a positive experience.
First of all, be cautious about buying overly cheap “handmade” goods that seem too good to be true. Many items may be mass-produced or of low quality.
Always check the authenticity of artisanal products, especially in tourist-heavy areas. If you can, prefer items marked as fair trade or directly from local artisans.
Also, avoid overspending in tourist areas; prices are often inflated, so bargaining is common in markets. Don’t hesitate to negotiate, but do so respectfully.
Be mindful of the “no return” policy in many small shops. That is, make sure you’re happy with your purchase before committing.
Meanwhile, when purchasing electronics or expensive items, make sure they are genuine. Definitely make sure that they come with proper warranty documentation.
Finally, avoid exchanging money at unofficial currency exchange spots. Unfortunately, they often offer poor rates. Stick to banks or authorized exchange services for better rates.
Final Thoughts
Mexican shopping is relatively easy. There is a mix of modern stores, local markets, and online platforms.
Payment options are diverse, and customer service is generally helpful.
If using dollars in Mexico, definitely exchange them for pesos at a currency exchange or bank for better rates.
Just be aware that some places actually accept dollars, but expect unfavorable conversion rates.
Enjoy Mexico!
Lena Wilson writes about fashion, beauty, and more for Caravanzers.
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