3/5 The Local Travel Boom In Mexico No One Saw Coming

[Ciro Antonio Martínez Morales]

Forget border-hopping.
2025 is the year of the Mexican Staycation Boom and it’s moving fast.

While international travel is still hot, a silent wave is rising inside Mexico itself. More and more middle- and upper-class Mexican families are choosing to vacation within their own country. Quick getaways. Weekend escapes. Last-minute plans.

If you’re only targeting foreigners, you may be missing out on a high-spending, repeat customer base already searching just a few hours away from your listing.

The trend is real:

• Over 65% of domestic bookings in Mexico are for locations within driving distance (Airbnb, internal data).

• Families from CDMX, Monterrey, Guadalajara, Querétaro and Mérida are looking for 2–4 day escapes within 2 to 6 hours by car.

• More Mexicans are choosing “close, cozy and comfortable” over expensive flights abroad.

Who are these guests?

• Working professionals and digital nomads

• Couples and families with kids

• Locals traveling for weddings, retreats, birthdays, or “just because” weekends

They value:

• Wi-Fi

• Easy parking

• Outdoor space

• Pet-friendly listings

• Personalized touches that reflect Mexican culture and warmth

What should you be doing?

-  Update your listing description with terms like “Perfect for a weekend escape from CDMX” or “Cozy hideaway just 3 hours from Guadalajara.”
-  Offer 2-night minimum stays
-  Highlight flexible cancellation policies
-  Emphasize peace, nature, local culture and comfort
-  Add Spanish-language info, welcome messages, and signage

 Final thought:

You don’t need to choose between international tourists and local travelers—the best hosts know how to appeal to both.

Mexicans are traveling more than ever, spending well, and looking for properties like yours.
And they’re doing it all year round—not just on spring break.

Don’t sleep on this wave.
Ride it.