Are you traveling to Mexico and are not sure about what to wear in Mexico, and even less so, what to bring with you?
Lucky for you, I have been to Mexico three times – each time crossing the country from north to south – and I will share the best packing list for Mexico you will find online. You can definitely learn from my mistakes, too – I once packed way too much, only to realize that I did not need half of the stuff I had brought with me.
Let me start by saying that Mexico has different climates and that there are seasons in Mexico, too (though perhaps without the dramatic changes known in other places).
This means that your Mexico packing list should vary depending on the region you will be visiting and should be based on when you are actually traveling.
What if you are going on a road trip around Mexico that crosses several states and climates, though? Don’t worry. Follow my instructions carefully, and you will be sure to pack whatever you need for your trip.
Best Packing List For Mexico: Luggage
Let’s start this packing list for Mexico with the essentials! What should you use when traveling to Mexico? Here are a few ideas.
Backpack
Planning on traveling around Mexico when you’re there? Then the luggage you’ll want is a backpack. Opting for a comfortable, durable backpack (perhaps from the likes of Osprey) is a great way to transport you and your gear from one destination to the next.
Try 40-liter capacity backpacks for shorter trips and 50 or more liters for a month or more of backpacking.
I am a big fan of the Osprey Ariel 55 Pack, as it is really comfortable and makes packing super easy. This is a great choice with lots of space. It comes in several different colors, so you can choose the one that catches your eye.
Suitcase
If you’re not backpacking around Mexico, or if you are renting a car in Mexico and won’t have to drag your luggage around, and even if you’re staying put instead, then chances are you’ll only need a suitcase.
Something with wheels that allows for easy transition through transport hubs is preferable, obviously!
The most durable suitcases are the Samsonite ones. I have had one since graduation, and I still use it! I also love Level8 suitcases as they are super easy to pack and move around and very trendy.
I am a massive fan of this large Level8 Trunk Luggage. I brought it with me on a variety of longer trips, and it fits all the clothes I need to pack and leaves enough room in case I want to do some shopping.
Alternatively, the Samsonite Freeform Hardside with Wheels is an excellent rolling suitcase. It’s good quality, very spacious, and perfect for all types of travelers who prefer hand luggage to backpacks.
Daypack
Having a comfortable daypack is crucial in Mexico. No matter where you’re staying, there’s ample opportunity to explore further afield and head out on a day trip.
For that, you’ll need a daypack with enough room to fit snacks, your camera, sunscreen, a bottle of water, sunglasses, insect repellent, and anything else you feel like taking along for the ride.
My go-to brand is Osprey. I am a fan of the Osprey Daylite as it has pockets to fit everything, including water bottles on the side.
Beach bag/dry bag
If you’re traveling by yourself, you probably won’t want to leave your stuff lying around unattended when you take a visit to the beach. Having a dry bag allows you to take essentials – money, phone, ID, keys – into the sea while keeping them bone dry.
It’s important to get a good dry bag that you can rely on. Usually, beach towns have local vendors walking around with an array of dry bags and waterproof phone cases. I bought a cheap one once from them, and it leaked almost immediately.
My favorite dry bags are the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag – these are an excellent choice. They shouldn’t have any leakage issues, and they are very reliable and keep your stuff dry. They come in different sizes and colors.
A dry bag is useful even if you aren’t going to the beach! Sometimes, I use my dry bag to hold my dirty laundry while traveling (if I don’t need it for belongings, I’ll always clean it well afterward). It’s a great way to keep dirty clothes separate and not have to stress about any smell.
What To Wear In Mexico
Let’s now look at the things to bring to Mexico that you should not miss from your suitcase or backpack.
Beach cover-up
Your packing list for Mexico should definitely include some beach-friendly items. After all, nothing says “beach” like Mexico, but if you’re going to spend time at any one of Mexico’s beautiful beaches, you’re going to need a beach cover-up.
Choose a flowing kaftan or sarong that you can fold up and stash in your bag and quickly throw on when you head for lunch at a beachside cafe.
I always travel with a sarong because it’s multi-purpose. Not only is it a great beach cover-up, but it can be used as a light blanket or pillow on long bus rides and even as a makeshift towel in a pinch.
I love the prAna Stellium Sarong. It’s a good fit, very stylish, and good for any beachy occasion.
Bathing suit
One of the most essential things to bring to Mexico that you definitely won’t want to leave behind is a bathing suit. If you’re traveling light, then just one bathing suit should do.
But if you’re booking into a swanky resort, then you may want to bring a selection of swimwear options with you – why not?
The type of swimsuit is totally up to you. Most beaches in Mexico, especially the tourist beaches, don’t have too many rules for what’s acceptable. You’ll find many people in one piece, small bikinis, and everything in between.
I personally prefer a good, sporty bathing suit for when I’m snorkeling, paddle boarding, or kayaking.
In general, I am a fan of super-minimal bikinis – that’s what we like here in Italy. However, for something more classic, check out what’s on sale from the REI swimsuits section! There’s something for everyone there.
Rash Guard
A bathing suit will definitely come in handy, and so will a rash guard if you’re spending time in the water.
They don’t take up much room, and they can do a lot for you. First, they’ll protect your skin from unnecessary irritation. Second, they’ll protect your skin from the sun!
Sunscreen can help a lot, but if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun, it might not be enough.
Rash guards are great for snorkeling when you’ll be mostly in the water with your back exposed. And they’re also good for sunny activities where you’re body is exposed, like paddle boarding.
I spent the entire day at the beach on my first day in Huatulco, Mexico. I got really bad sun poisoning that put me down for the count for the next four days. It was terrible, and I’m positive a rash guard would’ve made the world of difference.
The O’Neill Women’s Long Sleeve Rash Guard is of great quality and very comfortable. And this might make all the difference in whether you enjoy your time in the sun or regret it later.
Summer dresses
Pack a handful of colorful summer dresses that you can wear anytime on your trip. Easy to fold up to a compact size and perfect for when you don’t know what to wear, a dress means you have a whole outfit ready to go at any time.
Loose, breezy dresses are a good idea for the scorching summer temperatures. It’s also nice to have something a little nicer than shorts and a tank top in case you want to go out in the evenings or have a nice dinner.
I am absolutely in love with the Lucie Dress on Kuhl – in fact, I have it in various colors. You can browse Kuhl dresses and jumpsuits for something that catches your eye.
Shorts
Consider taking a couple of pairs of shorts with you. These will be good for when you go to the beach. When visiting sites or exploring cities, I recommend wearing a longer skirt or dress or light pants. People in Mexico tend to be a bit more conservative in their style when they are in a city, and you should be too.
My favorite shorts are Kuhl’s Haven Short – they are easy to wear and very comfortable. Kuhl’s shorts section has some great styles, complete with comfort, practicality, and a large variety. You’ll likely find something that fits your style there.
Long skirt
Speaking of dressing in a more conservative way, in some parts of the country, a long skirt is a good idea. You will feel protected from the heat and also feel covered up when exploring cities and religious buildings, such as cathedrals.
The NASHALYL Chiffon Maxi Skirts are perfect for city exploring and other events. There’s a variety of colors, so you can easily find something to match your other outfits.
Pants or jeans
Jeans are a good idea if you’re traveling to chillier parts of Mexico, and they also work well for days when you may be traveling. However, if your trip is taking you to warm, coastal regions, a pair of cotton or linen trousers will feel much cooler and are lighter to pack, too.
Kontour Flex by Kuhl are actually great jeans – soft and incredibly comfortable. I also love their Freeflex pants.
T-shirts
Consider taking with you three to five T-shirts so that you can have the option of changing if they get dirty and have one to wear while you do laundry.
T-shirts can work well as a cover-up from the sunshine but also something that is quickly thrown on for a trip to a cenote. Men may also want to pack some loose-fit smart shirts for the evening or for days exploring cities.
Kuhl makes the best t-shirts, with options for sun-proof shirts, sporty ones, and even dressier ones you can wear for a nice evening out. Check out the Kuhl shirts section for some stylish options for your holiday. My favorite? I love the Solstice Shirt as it’s so colorful and comfortable.
Sweaters and a light jacket
It can get cold in Mexico, so if you are planning a trip that will take you across the country, you may want to include a few sweaters and outer layers in your packing list for Mexico.
Make sure to also bring a light rain jacket, as depending on the season and the region, there are higher chances of rain – it was warm and sunny the first time I went there, but it certainly rained a lot when I visited Agua Azul the second time!
My favorite sweater is the Stria Pullover Hoodie by Kuhl.
For something a bit more heavy-duty, for example, if you are visiting Chiapas in the winter, you should consider Ascendyr by Kuhl.
Finally, Deflektr Hybrid Shell is by far the best rain and wind-proof jacket around.
Underwear
Obviously, you do not want to forget your underwear on your packing list for Mexico!
Bring enough pants for a week (you should be able to easily wash them on the go), and keep a pair of two in your hand luggage in case your suitcase goes missing in transit. Packing a few different bras is also a good idea, as well as a couple of sports bras for hikes and yoga classes.
Mexico Packing List – Best Shoes For Mexico
Having the right shoes for your trip to Mexico – and for any trip – is important. You don’t want to walk around in something uncomfortable and have your feet, legs, and even back hurt at the end of the day!
Here are the shoes you should include in your packing list for Mexico.
Flip flops
A pair of flip-flops are lightweight and easy to slip into your suitcase or backpack. Essential for days at the beach, chilling out at a cenote, or hanging out around the pool, they are also a must-have, in case you are staying at a hostel, to get into the common showers. Definitely add a pair to your packing list for Mexico.
The most popular brand for flip-flops is Havaianas because they are comfortable and affordable. However, I have recently switched to Crocs Kadee, as I find them way more comfortable and lighter – even inside my backpack.
Sandals or walking shoes
Bring along a pair of comfortable but stylish sandals, and you can wear them for day trips in your rental car and also pair them with a smart outfit for evenings out. If you are traveling to colder climates, you will, however, need a pair of good walking shoes.
REI sandals have a large selection of sandals and walking shoes – they have anything for any style and price range. I really like the Tevas and Chacos.
Hiking shoes
If you want to get out and do some hiking during your Mexico trip, then hiking shoes are what to wear in Mexico. The best option is a pair of lightweight walking shoes that have a good grip.
You will be able to wear them when hiking in remote mountains, discovering ancient Mayan ruins in the jungle, and even on a plane.
Salomon hiking shoes are great quality, and lightweight hiking shoes. They have several different styles, so surely one will be perfect for your preferences and style.
Water shoes
These aren’t necessary for everyone, but they might be useful, depending on where in Mexico you go.
Water shoes protect your feet while in the water. They are useful at some beaches, where the break is rocky or dangerous for other reasons (Cozumel beaches have spiky sea urchins that can really hurt if you step on them, but the water shoes provide a small layer of protection).
I also like water shoes for waterfalls if I’m swimming, as the bottom can sometimes be rocky or uncomfortable.
These ANLUKE Water Shoes are very comfortable, sleek, and easy to pack.
Mexico Packing List – Toiletries
Toothpaste/toothbrush
This should be something you never forget to pack anywhere! You may want to invest in a dedicated travel toothbrush. An electric toothbrush may just take up too much room in your suitcase, and you may not always have access to an easy way to keep it charged.
If you feel like purchasing something eco-friendly, then you could opt to get some bamboo toothbrushes. This is the perfect travel option as they’re light and not as bad for the environment!
Shampoo/conditioner
Save space and opt for solid shampoo and conditioner. These last longer and are better for the environment than buying plastic bottles of shampoo and conditioner. Plus, they slide into your bag really easily (and without the worry of them leaking or exploding in transit). And guess what? You can also pack them in your hand luggage!
Lush and HiBar make the best solid shampoo. I love this HiBar Moisturize Shampoo Bar. In terms of conditioner, it’s really a difficult choice – I never really found a solid one that works on my thick, long hair, so I can’t easily recommend one.
Deodorant
It’s obvious why you’d want to pack this for your trip to Mexico, let’s be honest. The best kind of deodorant is either roll-on or, better yet, a more eco-friendly deodorant bar (plus, you won’t have to worry about how much liquid is in your carry-on luggage).
Spray-on deodorant can be tricky to travel on planes with, and it’s not good for the planet.
Face wash
It’s best to opt for something eco-friendly, and whatever you do, definitely avoid buying an exfoliating face wash that features beads and microplastics: these are terrible for the environment.
The issue with most face wash sold in pharmacies is that they come in huge bottles, but you can get yourself an empty travel-size one and pack the amount necessary just for the trip.
La Roche Posay makes some excellent, delicate face wash. The La Roche Posay Gentle Cleanser is one of the best options.
This travel bottle set is perfect for portioning and traveling.
Toiletries bag and cosmetics bag
A toiletry bag is what you’ll need to keep all your shampoo, moisturizer, and other personal hygiene products in place.
Get one with multiple pockets that you can hang easily in the bathroom, such as the BAGSMART Toiletry Bag. It can definitely fit everything you need and fold down when not in use.
For the girls reading this: if you plan on taking any makeup with you, you won’t want it rolling around inside your toiletries bag – it can damage your products and just make them plain hard to find. In this instance, having a dedicated cosmetics bag is the best way to go.
It doesn’t need to be some huge make-up artist affair – just something small that holds everything you need will do. For example, this makeup bag will definitely get the job done!
Other Travel Essentials For Mexico
Finally, these are some more items that you should pack for Mexico.
Sunglasses/sunhat
Keep your head and neck protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Not only you will need a good pair of sunglasses, but a hat is also a must when exploring the Mayan ruins in Mexico.
Think about packing a sun hat that folds down and can be stashed in your daypack. This North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat might be a good option!
Reusable water bottle
Help save the planet and keep yourself hydrated too. A reusable water bottle is definitely something to keep in your backpack at all times, especially on hot days.
Remember that you shouldn’t drink tap water in Mexico. So, you’ll definitely want a reusable water bottle to fill up whenever you have the chance. You can also get one with a built-in filter, just in case.
To make sure the water you’re drinking is totally safe, purchase a reusable bottle with a built-in filter, such as the Lifestraw Go Series.
Hand sanitizer
More essential than ever before, hand sanitizer has become something that most of us now use daily, and it can’t be missing from your packing list for Mexico.
Many public bathrooms are often missing soap and sometimes even running water. So, hand sanitizer will definitely come in handy.
Pack up a small tube of hand sanitizer and keep it in your bag so you can keep your hands germ-free before you eat, on a bus journey, or after you use the bathroom.
Insect repellent
There’s a whole lot of nature in Mexico and with that comes a lot of insects.
Keep those pesky mosquitos at bay by protecting your skin with insect repellent. You will need this if you’re staying close to mangroves and lakeside destinations, as well as when you’re spending the day at Maya sites such as Coba.
I highly recommend Murphy’s Naturals Repellant Spray; it’s good enough to work on most occasions around Mexico unless you’re going miles into the deserted jungle where mosquitos swarm in the thousands.
Sunscreen
Make sure you have a trusted brand of sunscreen in your bag and that the SPF is higher than 30. For a number of places in Mexico, swimmers are required to use reef-safe sunscreen including some of the beaches and cenetoes.
It’s best to purchase a brand that is certified as environmentally friendly. Sun Bum sunscreen is an excellent choice that’s reef-friendly and vegan.
First aid kit
You never know when you might need a band-aid or a bandage, so it’s a good idea to keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in your bag. Think about bringing along some painkillers, diarrhea medicine, and rehydration sachets, too.
You’ll only need to bring the basics, however. You can usually find everything you need at a good price in one of the local pharmacies in case you get sick in Mexico. Some major chains even have an on-site doctor available.
But you’ll definitely still want all the essentials in case you’re far from the pharmacy or in a hurry.
This First Aid Kit has almost everything you need, and it’s surprisingly compact for traveling.
Microfiber towel
These are amazing. No doubt your accommodation will have towels to use, but even if they do, having a microfiber towel is perfect for a day trip to a beach or cenote in Mexico.
Microfiber towels dry super quickly, and that means you won’t have to lug around a damp, heavy towel in your daypack (which will also end up smelling not so nice). And they are super light to put in your backpack.
This Microfiber Travel Towel just might become your best friend, especially if you’re hiking or find your accommodation missing a towel!
Things To Bring To Mexico: Electronics
In the third millennium, you certainly can’t go on any trip without electronics! Here’s what to bring to Mexico.
Smartphone/tablet
Most people have a smartphone, so this is a no-brainer really! You should make sure that you have a protective case for your smartphone, if you don’t already, just in case you drop it while you’re in Mexico (or anywhere else, like I do!).
The same goes for a tablet; if you’re bringing one on your trip, that is.
Camera
There are a lot of beautiful things to see in Mexico, and sometimes a smartphone just won’t cut it when it comes to doing justice to picturesque scenes. So taking along a pocket-sized digital camera, SLR, or whatever you like to use makes total sense.
You might also want an underwater camera, especially if you’re spending time in the Yucatan Peninsula. You’ll definitely want to have some photos if you’re going snorkeling, swimming with whale sharks, or scuba diving.
Make sure you don’t forget extra memory cards, lenses, a case, and any other accessories you’ll need.
Laptop
It’s not essential by any means, but if you’re a remote worker and you don’t feel like taking too much time off during your trip to Mexico, you can always put in a few days of work here and there by taking your laptop. Having a durable case or backpack for a laptop is key, of course.
Travel adapter
If you’re traveling to Mexico from the US, you won’t need a travel adapter.
But if you’re traveling from elsewhere – from the UK, for example – then you’ll need a travel adapter to actually connect your technology and charge it when necessary. (By the way, plugs in Mexico feature two flat parallel pins, sometimes with a third grounding pin).
The EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter is a must-have for any traveler. Not only does it have the right plug-in for Mexico, but almost anywhere around the world.
Chargers and a power bank
The last thing you’ll want to do is forget any of the crucial chargers you’ll need for your phone, laptop, or camera! Make sure to also take a power bank, just in case you need to charge on the go.
This Anker Portable Charger is the perfect travel companion. It has 20,000 mAh, a USB-C, and a plugin for iPhone and Samsung.
Other Things To Bring To Mexico
Books to read
Whether it’s a Lonely Planet guide for Mexico, or a novel like Jack Kerouac’s On the Road or Under the Volcano by Malcolm Lowry, having something inspiring and informative to read about Mexico while you’re actually in Mexico is a great way to add depth to your journey through the country.
For longer trips, I travel with my Kindle because I can fit a lot more books on it. But I have an electronic Kindle that’s difficult to read in the sun because of the glare, so if I’m going to be at the beach or pool, I’ll bring a physical book.
Money belt
If you want to keep your money safe when in Mexico, it’s probably a good idea to invest in a money belt.
Having a money belt means keeping your cash safely hidden on your person – out of your main bag, out of your pockets, and away from potential pickpocketing when moving from place to place.
You can place the moneybelt over or under your shirt, depending on what’s more comfortable. Although placing it under your shirt, against your skin, is probably safer.
The RFID Blocking Travel Wallet is simple but wonderful.
Headlamp
A headlamp is a good thing to include in your packing list for Mexico. If there’s a power outage, or if you just happen to find yourself in the dark at any point, then a headlamp is going to come in really handy!
I also like to have it in case I am camping or staying at a super-budget hostel where dorms have no personal light.
This LHKNL Rechargeable Headlamp is a great choice. It has a white and red light, eight different modes of light, and is water resistant, so it should be no problem in the rain.
Detergent
Depending on how long your trip is, you may want to bring along some laundry detergent.
If you’re staying in a hostel, or your accommodation happens to have laundry facilities, then you’ll probably want to wash your clothes at some point, which is easy to do.
In most areas, you can usually find a laundry mat (lavanderia), where they’ll wash and dry your laundry for you. It usually takes 24 hours until you’re able to pick up your laundry.
However, sometimes it can be more of a hassle to find these places than it is for you to do it yourself, and that’s when having a soap bar comes in handy.
A good bar of eco-friendly soap, such as the Ethique Flash Multi-Purpose Cleaner is perfect for washing your underwear in the sink.
Travel washing line
It’s not exactly essential, but if you plan on doing any laundry when you’re in Mexico, having one of these would really help. You can string it up in your room or in your bathroom (maybe after doing some DIY laundry in the bath!) and save on having to use a dryer.
They don’t take up a lot of space and can be really useful. Even if you don’t do your own laundry, you may just want it for your towel or clothes after getting caught in the rain.
How To Pack For Mexico’s Different Climates
When it comes down to your clothes and other things to pack for Mexico, your final packing list for Mexico is dependent on where you’re going.
Are you going to the hot and humid beaches along the Caribbean Sea? Are you going to be running around the bustling streets of Mexico City? Or are you planning on hiking to some waterfalls near San Cristobal?
Each region in Mexico has drastically different climates, so it’s important to look at the climate and weather for your specific Mexico itinerary and go from there. Here’s a breakdown of different climates to keep in mind for popular tourist destinations in Mexico.
The Pacific and Caribbean Coasts
The Pacific coast in Mexico encompasses the Baja California Peninsula, which is the peninsula just south of California. It also includes regions further south, such as Huatulco and Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca, Zihuatanejo, Acapulco, and other beachy areas.
The Caribbean Coast, or the Yucatan Peninsula in the Riviera Maya, has a very similar climate. It tends to be more humid, and a little more rain during the wet season. But generally, you can pack similarly for all of these tourist destinations.
Baja California and the northern deserts have a very dry climate, making the weather feel slightly more pleasant (although the weather is great in all of Mexico’s beach destinations).
All of these places have hot and sunny weather year-round. You’ll want to pack light, making sure you have reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a good water bottle.
The Cancun rainy season is from May to October, and the Pacific coast rainy season is from July to October.
If you’re visiting during the rainy season, make sure to come prepared. For example, you might want a small collapsable umbrella and a rain jacket, just in case you get stuck.
Mexico City and the Central Mountains
Mexico City and other nearby high-elevation destinations like Puebla and San Miguel de Allende tend to be much cooler.
During the day, it’s usually sunny and nice. But when the sun goes down, the temperatures can drop drastically. It usually doesn’t snow or anything, so you should just make sure you bring long pants and a light jacket if you’re planning to go around at night.
Southern Mexico and Chiapas
Chiapas is the southernmost state in Mexico, near the Guatemala border. Most of Chiapas is incredibly hot and humid, with a strong jungle climate. However, San Cristobal de las Casas is the exception, with sometimes below-freezing temperatures.
San Cristobal is another high-elevation town, so the air is much cooler. You’ll definitely want to bring a jacket and warm clothes, alongside clothes for warm climates, if you plan to explore the Chiapas waterfalls.
Because of the cooler climate in San Cristobal and the hot climate surrounding it, your packing list for Mexico may be more comprehensive. But it’s definitely worth the trouble, so don’t let this deter you!
Final Tips For Your Mexico Packing List
Decide what to wear in Mexico before your trip
Telling you exactly what to wear in Mexico without knowing where you are going isn’t exactly easy – as I have said before, this is a big country with various climates. However, when putting together any packing list for Mexico, there are a few things you may want to keep in mind.
Mexicans, in general, tend to dress a bit more conservatively than in other countries, and this is certainly the case outside of coastal areas – for example, in Chiapas. You will not see many Mexican women going around in denim shorts and tight tank tops in the interior areas of Mexico.
Move to the Yucatan Peninsula, and wearing shorts is definitely more common. Tourists certainly do that – I did that myself and had no issues at all. What you wear in Mexico is ultimately your decision, and you should do whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Avoid flashy jewelry
One thing you may want to avoid bringing and wearing while in Mexico is flashy jewelry. That will easily make you stand out as a tourist, and in bigger cities, you may become a target for pickpockets, touts, and sale pitches.
Get a good travel insurance
Last, but not least, make sure to get good travel insurance for your trip to Mexico – in fact, I recommend getting one for any trip, long or short, you may be going on. Not convinced travel insurance is needed? Just read this post. Then, go ahead and get our insurance with Heymondo here – it’s super budget friendly while offering extensive coverage.
Further Readings
These posts may come in handy when planning your trip to Mexico:
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Nice packing list, Claudia. Not sure everything will fit in a 50 litre backpack though.
I forwarded your article to my daughter who will go to Mexico in July.
tell her to keep to the basics!