So you’re heading to Mexico, eh? LUCKY YOU! I’d love to help you with your Mexico packing list. The great news is Mexico has absolutely perfect weather so no matter what time of year you will be visiting you’re sure to have great weather. This also makes packing for a trip to Mexico a little easier.
Let’s Talk About the Weather
The climate in Mexico is tropical meaning that there is a wet season and a dry season. The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April. During these months, there is virtually no rain. On the other hand, the wet season lasts from May until October.
The temperature in all areas of Mexico ranges between 50°F and 90°F throughout the year.
The Nitty Gritty
If you happen to accidentally leave something at home, you can always head into the large cities to do some shopping. However, items are typically more expensive in Mexico, and you may not find the particular brand that you would at home.
Mexico Packing List Essentials
When you’re getting ready for Mexico, there are some things that you absolutely must have with you. All of these items should be in your suitcase, purse, and/or carry-on.
Passport
You absolutely must have your passport to travel to Mexico. If you are visiting as a tourist, you do not require a visa. Visitors planning to stay more than 6 months get a visa.
Driver’s License
Visitors planning to drive in Mexico will need to be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license or international driving permit in order to rent a car and/or drive around legally. If you have a US driver’s license do not worry, it is a valid driver’s license in Mexico.
Although the legal driving age is 18, some rental companies require you to be 25 years or older and you must have a drivers license for a minimum of 2 years.
Portable and Plug-in Chargers
Obviously, you’re going to be taking a ton of pictures on your trip. You most definitely are going to want to pack a portable power bank for your phone. While you’re thinking about chargers you better grab all of the chargers for your electronics: phone charger, laptop charger, tablet charger, smartwatch charger, and maybe even an electric toothbrush charger!
The Anker PowerPort Cube Power Strip has 3 outlets, 3 USB ports, and includes a 5-foot extension cord.
I use the Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger for charging things on the go.
Mexico uses 127volts, 60 cycle electricity, which is similar to the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. Outlets rarely have 3 holes so if your device has a third prong, bring an adapter.
Camera & SD Card
Sure, you could just bring your phone along for photos but you’ll probably want to bring a legit camera along as well. I suggest a Nikon D5600 for high-quality photos. While you’re grabbing your camera, don’t forget our SD card! I travel with a 64 GB memory SD card. If you’re feeling wild, you can go for a 128 GB SD memory card.
If you’re planning on spending time at the beach, cenotes, or anywhere else on the coast you’ll probably want to have an underwater camera, as well. Those of you who will be using a phone as a camera, make sure you get a waterproof phone case. I take one of these with me on all of my trips to Central America and the Caribbean.
Cash $
It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. I would be careful about carrying around large amounts of money. I would suggest only having an equivalent of $100 (broken into small bills) on your person.
Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN). Some resort areas may accept USD however, you will most likely be charged extra if you are paying in USD.
Credit Cards
You will most likely be able to use your debit cards in Mexico. In fact, an easy way to access money while traveling is to use your debit or credit card in an ATM or cash machine in Mexico: you will receive Mexican currency, and your bank will withdraw the equivalent funds from your account plus a fee for the transaction.
Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops will typically be able to accept Visa and MasterCard. You could also use a credit card to obtain cash advances at major banks. I use a travel wallet to keep my passport, cards, and money safe in one place.
Travel Umbrella
If you’re traveling to Mexico during the wet season, you’ll definitely want to pack an umbrella. May through October are the wet seasons. I pack an EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella.
Sun Care
Trust me, there’s nothing worse than getting sunburned on a vacation. Plan on using a strong sunscreen to protect your skin. If you are hitting the reefs, you’ll want to pack coral reef-safe sunscreen. While you’re at it toss some Chapstick with SPF into your bag. You may also want to consider a hat and a sun shirt, as well. I always pack a bit of aloe with me on vacation- just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?
Mosquito Repellent
Mexico has a tropical climate so there are mosquitoes, bugs and other insects buzz around mostly in the early mornings and late evening. However, in most areas, most time of the year they are that not annoying.
If you’re spending time in the jungle or rainforest, you’ll want to pack some insect repellent. As Floridians (aka people used to mosquitos) we travel with Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets everywhere we go. Bullfrog always makes a Mosquito Coast 2 in 1 Sunscreen and Insect Repellent that is water-resistant. I always toss it in my day bag when I’m in the jungle and rainforest.
Medications
You should always pack your necessary prescription medications in your carry-on bag. Make sure they are in their original containers.
What to Wear on the Plane to Mexico
Although you’ll be traveling to a tropical destination, you may want to dress a little more warmly on your flight. Since airplanes are typically cool, you’ll want to dress in layers. Consider wearing a tank top with a light sweater, a light hoodie, or a long sleeve shirt. I also usually don’t wear shorts on a plane because my legs tend to get cold.
Make sure you wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off and consider leaving your belt in your suitcase. If you plan on packing a large floppy sun hat, you may want to bring it on the plane so that it doesn’t get squished in your suitcase.
FUN FACT:
These adorable little cocktail sets are perfect for a drink on the go. Believe it or not, they are TSA compliant! They are great for travel days but also would be handy on an impromptu picnic!
What to Wear During the Day
Keep in mind that the average temperature in Mexico is 84 degrees. It’s also typically super humid. Consider packing clothing that will be comfortable in this climate.
You’ll also want to consider what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re spending most of your time on the coast you’ll want to focus on coverups, bathing suits, and sandals. If you’re heading to the jungle and rainforest to zip-line or going to the ruins like Tulum or Chicken Itza you’ll want to pack activewear. I usually wear breathable yoga pants, a t-shirt, comfortable tennis shoes, sunglasses, and a hat when I hit the ruins.
The dress code in Mexico is super laid back. It’s cool if you stick with casual outfits.
Misc. Electronics
Kindle
If you don’t want to lug a guide book around, you may want to invest in a Kindle. These are a great alternative to packing physical books. They take up way less space! The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof making it a great option for travel.
AirPods
These headphones are MADE for travel. They are compact, lightweight, and recharge themselves when they are in the case. AirPods are great to have on the plane, train, or when relaxing by the pool or on the beach!
Other Items for Your Mexico Packing List
Scanned Copies of Important Items
It is always smart to carry a scanned copy of the information page of your passport. That way, if you misplace it it’s easier for you to get a replacement. Make sure you pack it in a different place than you keep your physical passport. You can also take a photo of it and store it on your phone.
Packing Cubes
Guys! Packing cubes are LIFE! They are the perfect way to keep your suitcase neat and organized. They have been a total game changer for me!
First Aid Kit
Raise your hand if you’re a klutz like me! Anybody? If you’re anything like me then you totally need to pack a first aid kit. I take one with me when I travel.
Guide Books
If you are a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you may want to pack along a guide book. I’m a Lonely Planet fan.
While You’re in Mexico
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