As students pack their bags for spring break, they may want to bring along extra caution if they're traveling to Mexico.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel alert for Mexico that warns of increasing violence there, especially near the U.S.-Mexico border, often due to drug cartel conflicts. However, Mexican and foreign bystanders have been injured or killed in violent attacks across the country.

More than 100,000 American teenagers and young adults travel throughout Mexico during spring break each year, according to the State Department.

"Because students may be planning travel to Mexico during spring break, we want to bring this alert to their attention," said Allen Bova, Cornell director of risk management and insurance.

While millions still visit Mexico safely, travelers must be aware of risks and exercise caution, Bova advised. He urged all travelers to have emergency plans in place before they leave home. The plans should include emergency contacts and health information.

"Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable," the State Department alert reads.

Drug cartels are engaging in increasingly violent conflicts along the border as well in northern Mexico, including in Tijuana, Chihuahua City and especially Ciudad Juarez. Some peaceful public gatherings have turned unexpectedly violent.

The travel alert is at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_3028.html. Additional information can be found at "Spring Break in Mexico -- Know Before You Go" at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/spring_break_mexico/spring_break_mexico_2812.html.