Military, Agricultural And Random Checkpoints In Mexico

Anyone who travels by road in Mexico will soon come to a checkpoint of some kind or another.  This is a typical military checkpoint, complete with sandbags, military grade weapons, rumble strips and sometimes drug sniffing dogs.

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When you come upon one of these places, it gets your attention and you do what you are told to do.  This one is just South of Tampico on the Gulf Coast of Mexico.

These guys are looking for illegal drugs and weapons, which we would be foolish to have in Mexico.  In some areas, there may be Agricultural checks, just as there are in the U.S.

We stayed over night in this field behind the military camp.  Just as it is in the U.S., sometimes you are waved on and sometimes you are stopped and your RV is searched.  We have had both situations happen a number of times.  It’s no big deal, as long as you know what’s allowed and follow the rules.

In more rural areas, you may come to a large rope that suddenly springs up across the road in front of you.  Depending on where you are, this can be a little unnerving.  Typically, it will be the local kids collecting small amounts of money for their school.  Sometimes, they may be collecting a fee that allows you to pass through their village.  The local police car is often nearby, which encourages you to contribute.  Giving a few small coins, candy bars or pencils will bring many warm smiles.