Traveling or living in Mexico on a tight budget can be quite challenging, especially when it comes to buying groceries. I recently tried a personal experiment to see what I could purchase with only 200 pesos, roughly equivalent to 10 USD, to simulate buying groceries as a financially limited person. What I found was that shopping strategically at local markets and smaller stores helps a lot. Instead of going to large supermarkets, I focused on fresh produce, staples like rice and beans, and local products which tend to be more affordable. Street vendors and local markets offer competitive prices and often fresher items. In addition, portion control and meal planning become essential. With 200 pesos, choosing versatile ingredients that can be used across several meals helps make the most of the budget. For example, buying eggs, tortillas, seasonal fruits, and vegetables allows for a variety of meals without overspending. I also noticed that many items offered in Mexican markets have flexible prices, so bargaining politely can sometimes stretch your money further. Keeping an eye on local promotions and discounts, especially for staple goods, is key. Overall, living or traveling in Mexico with minimal money requires creativity, planning, and willingness to embrace local shopping habits. This experience not only saved money but also gave me insights into the daily life and culture of Mexico, making grocery shopping an interesting and rewarding activity.