The perfect packing list for Mexico: accessories + outfits for Mexico cities and beaches

Wondering what to pack for your trip to Mexico? Whether you are traveling to one of the charming Mexican cities, exploring the pristine Mexico beaches, road tripping, or hiking, in this post I will share the perfect packing list for Mexico.

I have lived in Mexico for 12 years and have traveled to all the major destinations in Mexico including the less touristy from the overcrowded beaches of the Riviera Maya to the spectacular mountains of the Copper Canyons, walked around the most charming cities in the permanent heat of Merida to the cold winter in Mexico City, just to name a few places.

I have the habit to carry a giant suitcase with me (or two) all the time, just because I don’t have a home as a base, so I always carry with my winter and summer clothing and all the electronics and tools I need and my motto is “just in case”.

Having said that I do know what to leave behind and what to pack for Mexico depending on the kind of trip you are going to have and in this post I will break it down in different chapters so you just check the Mexico packing list you need for your needs.

PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

3 Top things to know about the packing list for Mexico

1. Mexico is huge

Although when we think of Mexico only Mexico’s spectacular beaches come to our minds, the truth is there is much more than that and a packing list for Mexico becomes a giant guide that includes different packing lists for different destinations, cities, beaches, and mountains, you name it.

Also, different beach destinations in Mexico may need different kinds of attire if you like to follow the fashion trends or simply because you do specific activities.

Worry not because we will cover all of it.

I will tell you everything you need to know about packing for a beach destination be it Cancun or Puerto Vallarta or any other beach destination, including the most useful beach accessories and fancy beachwear, but also cities and mountain destinations. Yes, in Mexico there are also mountains to hike, such as the spectacular Nevado de Toluca.

2. Always carry a water bottle with you

It doesn’t matter if you are walking around a city or on a beautiful beach in the summer heat, or in the winter cold in Mexico City. It’s always practical to have a refillable water bottle with you to stay hydrated all the time.

The majority of hotels and restaurants will be happy to refill your bottle for you so that you be sure you carry your water with you and you don’t use plastic bottles.

Also, keep in mind that the water in Mexico is not drinkable, which is probably one of the most important Mexico travel tips that you should know.

3. Always carry a copy of your documents

Especially if you are on a road trip in Mexico or traveling around by bus make sure you have all your documentation in order and even better a copy of them for your own peace of mind.

The authorities always do random checks along the roads.

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What you should not wear in Mexico

There is not a specific dress code in Mexico but there are a couple of things that you may want to keep in mind:

► Mexicans are generally a bit conservative with clothing but you may notice some contradictions. So you may see women swimming in their t-shirts and shorts, but then wearing very tight jeans and shirts with a very revealing neckline.

► You don’t need your design pieces of clothing in Mexico, especially if you are road tripping and exploring around. Just wear comfortable and light shoes. However, if you are in Tulum or Sayulita, you may find a more upscale style as those two destinations attract influencers and Instagrammers and therefore more glamour. But feel free to just ignore that if that’s not your style.

► In the cities, you may see girls wearing shorts, especially if it’s very hot, but I would avoid drawing even more attention than you already do just by being a tourist. Long linen pants and a tank top will just do the job.

► Having said that you will be noticed regardless.

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

Packing for Mexico: travel documents and money

Let’s start with the practical stuff which is also the most essential and we tend to forget.

1. Passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date you travel. They have these rules because the maximum time you are allowed to stay in Mexico is  6 months.

Make a photocopy to take with you when you explore around while leaving your original in your safety box, just in case.

Consider getting a Passport holder to keep it safe and intact.

2. Driving Licence

Driving in Mexico is easier than you might think. I have written a few travel itineraries that you can follow and a guide on driving in Mexico.

Even if you are not intending to rent a car in Mexico, I would suggest you bring your driving license. You never know, you might get inspired and change your mind. 

Especially if you are traveling around the Yucatan Peninsula

3. Cash

If you are staying in an all-inclusive with everything already paid for you won’t need so much cash, but it’s always advisable to take some with you for markets or Mexico souvenirs or even if it was just water and snacks or a taxi.

In case you are up for an adventure and you are planning to travel around Mexico, and you want to bring more cash I would suggest you should invest a few bucks and grab this money belt so that you can safely keep your money around your waist.

It is one of the first safety tips for traveling to Mexico.

You can still withdraw almost anywhere in Mexico. However, just consider that if you withdraw USD it’s going to cost you a fortune in commissions.

So just get what you need in Mexican Pesos and pay by card when you can.

4. Travel Insurance

✔ Do I need travel insurance to travel to Mexico? – Yes, you do!
Among all the multiple reasons why you should get travel insurance, is the peace of mind it gives you! Knowing that whatever happens, from medical emergencies to lost bags, canceled flights, theft, and more, your bills are taken care of. I have been using two different ones, SafetyWing and World Nomads depending on the kind of traveling I was doing. For the more adventurous ones, which included hiking and scuba-diving, World nomads has got you covered, for a more tranquil trip SafetyWing would do the job and it’s cheaper. But don’t just take my words. Make sure you read all the included coverage and policy details to find out what’s the right policy for you.

Read also: How to choose the best travel insurance

5. Check the luggage policy of the airline you are traveling with

Don’t make my mistakes. Once, a long time ago, before becoming smarter, I booked an extremely cheap flight without checking the airline policy and I didn’t see that the price was for carry-on only. Once at the airport I had to pay an outrageous amount just to check the bag in.

So, make sure you browse through your airline site and check the baggage policy. Also, make sure to check also the handbags’ accepted weight and size and that your bags match.

Here are some lovely options if you are in need to purchase a new  carry-on.

And a very useful and cheap weight scale for bags will help you to make sure your bags are not overweight as airlines are getting more strict nowadays.

If you want to use your normal scale, you will need to weigh yourself (Oh well…I wouldn’t  ) and then do it again while holding your bag.

Then it’s just simple math.

6. Be ready for TSA Check

The TSA is very strict. So, it is less of a hassle to be prepared and know what you can carry and what not through security.

Instead, on the official TSA page for you to read and make sure you have everything in order.

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to pack for Mexico: Travel Essentials and Electronics

1. Bring your own medicine and the prescription itself

This is just for those who are under prescription drugs, it’s safer to include them in your Mexico packing list and consider some extra ones in case your return flight gets delayed.

It’s important to bring the prescription itself along when you are traveling to Mexico, in case customs asks.

Especially when you arrive at Cancun international airport the authorities have become quite inquisitive.

2. If you wear prescription glasses, bring a second pair with you

Oh, this one is too important, I broke my favorite glasses while I was traveling in Mexico and if I didn’t have an extra pair I am not sure what I could have done.

Remember to include an extra pair when you are packing for Mexico.

3. Suitcase locks

4. Life straw bottle

Anywhere in Mexico and mostly all over South America water is not drinkable, and even where they say it is, it’s still not recommendable for foreigners who are not accustomed to local bacteria.

I know by experience. There are many water purifier bottles around. Life straw is not the most complete you cannot drink water from the lakes after having been filtered with a life straw. 

But it will do with tap water.

👉 Or you can simply buy a water bottle to refill in the “garrafon” which is a 20 lt water tank available in almost every hotel or restaurant for a free refill.

5. Infinitive scarves

The perfect solution for the airport’s outrageously low temperatures but also to hide your travel essentials like your phone and passport.

6. Mexico Sim Card

There are at least 5 reasons why you should buy a Mexico Sim Card and the most important one is safety. You can check out my post to find out what I mean and what are the other 4 reasons.

That is if you have a phone that works in Mexico and if you want to save money from roaming which is usually very expensive.

The other good news is that it’s very cheap to switch your SIM card and these video tutorials will guide you through it.

How to switch to Mexico Prepaid SIM card on an iPhone

How to switch to Mexico Prepaid SIM card on other different phones

7. Portable charger

Traveling to Mexico will make you want to take photos of everything, from the spectacular Mayan ruins to the fascinating cenotes and the pristine beaches.

So a portable charger cannot miss on your packing list for Mexico.

I bought the Anker Portable Charger during my trip to New York and I am very pleased. It lasts forever.

8. iPhone Battery Charger

9. Android And Kindle Battery charger long cable

10. Travel organizer

11. Flexible phone tripod

If you are passionate about photography and you only have your phone a flexible phone tripod will help you take an amazing selfie no matter where you are.

12. Headphones

Well, if you love to hear your own music or podcast on the beach or on the plane or anywhere you want, it’s nice not to bother your neighbors, who might not be interested. 

Grab your headphones on  Amazon.com

13. Kindle & Kindle Cover

I don’t go anywhere without my kindle. I know what you are thinking, I love books and I prefer to read a “real” book a thousand times more.

But when I travel I just can’t bring my library with me.

Therefore the Kindle is my perfect option.

Besides, I love the fact that I can highlight parts of the book and then have them sent to my email altogether.

And that I can read at night without the need to turn the light on. See? there are some perks to using the Kindle as well.  Oh, I was forgetting, the new version is even waterproof.

I suggest you bring yours during your trip to Mexico as you may love to read while you are relaxing in one of the beautiful beaches or if you are traveling by bus it will help you kill time.

Purchase yours on Amazon.com

Purchase your Kindle Cover as well on Amazon.com

14. Deet-free Mosquito repellent bracelets

If you travel to Mexico you most likely need a mosquito repellent. Just remember you can’t use it in the Yucatan Cenotes.

Mosquito bites are an issue in tropical countries.  I wrote a post on safety in Mexico where I talk more extensively about the health and Zika situation in Mexico and other related topics.

In general, protecting you from mosquito bites is always a good move.

Purchase your deet-free spray and bracelets on Amazon.com

15. Small backpack or day bag

I am sure, and I hope, you won’t stay all the time in your beautiful hotel, if you are going to take day trips, a nice small day bag is what you need, even better if it’s foldable.

This lovely portable backpack is similar to the one I have purchased on Amazon, just a little more stylish and it comes in different colors.

16. Plug adaptor

If you are traveling to Mexico from the US you won’t need this, but if you are coming from Europe or anywhere else with a different outlet system you don’t want to forget this precious little tool.

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17. Earplugs

Well, that depends on where you are staying and if hearing noises that are different from your own would annoy you.

If that’s the case you can purchase yours on Amazon.com

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18. Eye Masks

If you have difficulties sleeping in the light, you should think about including some eye masks when you pack for Mexico so that you can sleep comfortably.

Here is a very cute, fancy, and very girly one I have found on Amazon.com

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19. Journal

I realized I love to journal and I have started writing in a little notebook that a friend of mine gave me when my journey across South America began. However, I love the Moleskine, although you can really just grab any book note and start scribbling. That’s what matters.

Grab your Moleskine on Amazon.com

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to pack for Mexico for Personal Care

1. Toothbrush cover

Your favorite toothbrush, better if made of bamboo, needs to be protected from external agents, during transport.

Get your toothbrush cover on Amazon.com.

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2. Contact lens case and solution

If you are wearing contact lenses, a portable case and solution would really be a nice comfortable gadget to bring with you. It’s tiny and light and it occupies little space.

I found this cute one on Amazon.com

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3. Eco-friendly Sunscreen

When it comes to choosing the best sunscreen for Mexico you have a lot of options. This is my main choice for my favorite eco-friendly sunscreen in Mexico.

You will find it in some organic products shops but I am sure you don’t want to waste your time during your trip to Mexico looking for sunscreen. So it’s best if you buy it before as you can easily find it on Amazon.

If you are not going to the beach you may want to opt for lighter sunscreen

Sunscreen for the beach

Sunscreen for the city

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to bring to Mexico Beach

I mentioned above that Mexico is not only a beach and we’ll get to what to take to Mexico City and other cities in a moment.

Here below I am going to share the most important things to pack for your trip to Mexico in any of the most popular beach destinations be it Tulum, Cancun, Sayulita, La Paz, or Puerto Vallarta.

Packing wise you need pretty much the same items.

Mexico Beach Accessories

1. Waterproof phone case

Always useful either if you don’t have a go pro and you like to take pictures under the water or just to protect your phone from water sprinkles during a boat tour of the sand.

Purchase yours on Amazon.com 

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2. Sarong

I always travel with one or two pareos or sarongs, I find them super practical and multifunctional. I can use it as a cover-up on the beach, or if I am chilly at a restaurant or on the plane, and more.

I would really suggest you should get one or two as well that combine with your swimsuit or your general outfit. I mean, choose the patterns or colors that resonate with you the most.

Here are some shopping ideas on Amazon.com

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3. Sunscreen

You cannot go to Mexico without carrying sunscreen!

I cannot stress enough how important is to use sunscreen, pick your favorite brand, and put it on your face, shoulder, and body.

You will be in the Caribbean or, if you are heading to the Pacific coast, it’s still the tropics and THE SUN BURNS! and it ain’t funny when your skin is so red it hurts. Trust me, I know.

So here I found an organic sunscreen on Amazon that has become my favorite one. I actually found it in El Cuyo, Mexico but it’s also sold on Amazon.

I have used it and although it’s a little sticky, it’s completely natural and it protects from sunburnt, most of all. Even if you are not on the beach, but you are exploring, the sun is still there.

Oh, even when it’s cloudy, that’s the best way to get burned.

And even if you are traveling to the areas of Mexico that don’t include a beach, you need to pack sunscreen anyway!

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4. Get a fancy hat

Wear a hat. I love hats they can give you such a  fancy look and at the same time, they will protect you from the sun.

Straw hats are the most fashionable and yet practical. You can check out the original Panama Hats, or you can shop some cheap fancy ones on Amazon.

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5. Beach Bag

As I have suggested above a foldable backpack for the beach or a day tour would be more practical but as a woman, I understand that like be fancier than more practical.

And therefore here we go! Some lovely options to keep a girly look when you hit the beach. I love straw bags as they have such a rustic boho chic feeling.

Or I also love multicolored big soft bags like the ones you can find in crafts markets in Guatemala or Mexico but also on Amazon.com.

These practical and colorful bags can be used either on the beach or as a cool piece of accessory in the city.

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6. Sunglasses

Important! You will especially need some that are fancy but with dark shades to better protect your eyes from the strong rays like this one.

7. Snorkel and Masks

You will always find a mask and snorkel for rent but I have to be honest I am a little picky on this. You never know if they have been washed properly after use. When I can I would rather use my own.

You can certainly buy one in one of the closest diving shops. However, if you wish to go prepared, here is one of my favorite brands, Cressi. It’s a little expensive but you are sure you have good quality.

If you are not into snorkeling and you don’t want to splurge, I have found this cheaper version that includes also a Carry bag, very convenient.

8. Beach Towel

If you are staying in a fancy hotel probably they provide you with a top-quality beach towel that you can carry with you on a tour, or if you visit a nearby beach.

However, it’s not very convenient to carry around a 3-kilos towel, no matter how fancy it is.

I find these microfiber beach towels very convenient, cute, and super light. And you can use them on many different occasions.

Or you can just get the fancy one in original Turkish raw cotton (see below)

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

Mexico Beach Outfit – Swimsuits

I was desperate to find good quality swimsuits that were not too expensive. Thanks to a fellow blogger I found this amazing brand and I bought 3 pieces, just because with the first purchase that it’s above 50 USD you get a 15% discount. So why not.

I was surprised to receive them in less than a week and each swimsuit in its own nice bag. The material is very good quality and has robust and elegant finishings.

They also fit very well. I am sorry I am not posting pictures of me in a bathing suit, rest assured it’s not a nice sight. Just take my word 🙂

Cupshe one piece

Cupshe bikini

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2. Mexico beach wear – Maxidresses

A beach vacation requires stylish and comfortable beachwear. If you feel like getting a couple of new outfits for your upcoming vacation, I am here to help you find some cute sexy, and stylish pieces.

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3. Midi dress

You may want to dress up for the night, whether you are in a Mexico All Inclusive hotel or going out at night you may want to add these casually elegant midi dresses.

Click on the picture to check prices and details.

4. Top

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5. Shorts

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6. Beach sandals

Whether is the comfortable Birkenstocks or the classic Havaiana flipflops or another cute model it’s always a good idea to include one pair in your Mexico packing list.

Click on the image to select the item you want to check out.

7. Elegant sandals for a night out

8. Beach cover-up

Whether you are in a beachfront hotel or in town, in any beach destination in Mexico you can easily go out very casually with a simple beach cover-up over your swimsuit.

Here are some cute cover-ups I found on my favorite sites for a beach outfit.

9. Mexico all-inclusive packing list

Now, if you are planning to stay in an all-inclusive or any of the high-end resorts either on the Mexican Caribbean coast or on the Pacific side here are a couple of tips.

Although I am living in Mexico I have also stayed in some of them and visited many others and I can tell you that the majority of them are quite informal with the exception of some specific gourmet restaurants that require evening attire.

Besides, as a woman, I know that we love to dress up when we have the occasion whether we are traveling alone or with friends or to impress our partner.

So besides the cute outfits suggested above that are all perfect for your all-inclusive resort as well, here below I am sharing some more nice items, accessories, and other elegant pieces that you may want to include in your Mexico packing list.

Flip flops are ok in all inclusive as well, to go to the beach, but when you go to a restaurant in the evening you may want to switch to more chic shoes.

You don’t have to be super elegant, but somewhat casual chic, if I may. Keep it in mind when you are packing the outfit to bring to Mexico.

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to wear in Mexico city and any other cities

If you are going to travel to Mexic city or any other city in Mexico you need to remember that there is a big difference between summers and winters. Winters can be really cold and you will need winter jackets as well.

While summer is very hot as if you were on the beach, (but remember you are not).

City outfits are usually more conservative although you see girls in shorts and tank tops, especially in extremely hot cities such as Merida. I would really avoid showing too much skin in the city, though.

And most of all I would avoid sandals as you will need to walk a lot if you like exploring.

Remember to visit churches it’s preferable, if not mandatory to cover your legs and your shoulders. So always include a pareo or two in your Mexico packing list for cities as well.

The information on what to wear in Mexico cities that I am going to share now applies for all the cities that are considered in central Mexico, which includes Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Queretaro, Puebla, Oaxaca, Taxco, Guadalajara, just to name the most important ones that are not located on the beach.

I didn’t include Merida, because although it’s not exactly on the beach it’s only at 30 minutes drive, so you can use as a reference the outfit suggested for Mexico beach destinations.

What to wear in Mexico city and all cities in central Mexico in summer and springs

During summer and spring, it’s hot but can be chilly at night so the best thing to do if you are planning to stay out all day is to dress in layers, also you will want to wear comfortable shoes to walk around.

Here below you will find my pick for your packing list for Mexico City.

👉 Click on the image to read the details and make the purchase

What to wear in Mexico city and all cities in central Mexico in winter and fall

Here below you can find some of my favorite pieces of outfit to pack for Mexico cities in winter and fall.

👉 Click on the image to read the details and make the purchase

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to take to Mexico in the rainy season

The rainy season in Mexico is usually from June through November, with September and October being the most humid months with the higher risk of rain and hurricane.

If you are visiting Mexico beach destinations in those months I would want to pack a rain jacket.

However, keep in mind that even if it rains it will still be hot and humid so maybe a small portable umbrella would be better.

In fact, it can also be used to repair from the strong sun rays!

Regardless of the time of the year, I would always consider packing a rain jacket or a rain poncho because it can rain regardless of the warm weather.

Click on the image to buy or check on the item you like!

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

Eco-friendly items to bring to Mexico

If you are an ecology-conscious traveler, as we all should be, here are some items that will help you travel in an eco-friendly way helping protect the fragile environment from human exploitation. Every small action helps.

The below items are almost all available in Mexico as well but since you are going on vacation you may not want to waste your time wandering around in search of them.

So here I have included the link to order them before you travel to Mexico.

1. Eco-friendly bug spray – make sure you use it, especially in the morning and evening but, remember, you are not allowed to swim in the cenote with it. So make sure you wait until you get out of the water before using it.

👉 BUY ON AMAZON NOW

2. Eco-friendly organic sun protector. There are many for every situation but Raw Elements is my favorite so far.

👉 BUY ON AMAZON NOW

3. Rush guard – Well this is the most eco-friendly sun protector you can find because it’s an acrylic t-shirt that for sure will give you 100% protection without doing any damage to the environment.

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4. Menstrual cups – There are many of them and it’s probably hard to get used to it at the beginning. You should try different sizes and shapes before finding the best one for you and not everyone can use it.

So it’s really up to you, but I wanted to include it here as an option. 👉 BUY ON AMAZON NOW

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PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to pack for Mexico for a hike

Don’t be surprised. There are incredible hikes in Mexico. Only around Mexico city and Puebla you can find some of the highest peaks from the Nevado de Toluca which is only 4000 mt to the Pico de Orizaba which goes over 6000 (18000 feet) or La Malinche besides many others.

There are quite challenging hikes but also less difficult ones for any kind of hiker. But you need to dress properly because temperatures can be quite rough!

Here below I am sharing some useful items that you will need for hiking when the temperatures go down.

The Merrel hiking boots are quite light and I also use them for moderate hikes on the coast as well with tropical climates.

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