The Ultimate Packing List for Mexico in 2023 – 51 Items to Keep In Mind!

Planning to travel to Mexico and not sure what to bring? Whether you are traveling to one of the charming Mexican cities, exploring the pristine Mexico beaches, road tripping, or hiking, this packing list for Mexico will help you figure out what to pack in your bag.

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, and walked around the most charming cities in the permanent heat of Merida to the cold winter in Mexico City and many more.

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

► Mexico is not only beaches and 80°F

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, deserts, rivers, and waterfalls. With so many different climates and landscapes, you need to be prepared.

Did you know that in winter you may need a sweater in Cancun, for example?

► 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.

►Always have 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.

That’s also valid for the immigration card, that small piece of paper they stamp when you go through immigration in Mexico. Immigration officers will look for that and the date on it to make sure you are respecting the time are allowed to travel in Mexico.

PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What you should NOT wear in Mexico in general

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.

► Leave your jewelry at home. You don’t need it and it would be a call to steal

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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, at least in some places.

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, Baja California, or the Riviera Nayarit

These passport holders are practical and multifunction since you can wear them on and keep your passport, other documents, and money safe.

⬇️ CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO SEE MONEY AND INFO ⬇️

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.

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

Never leave without your travel insurance!

Whatever it is the way you love to travel, either by car, tour, or bus, always make sure you get travel insurance.

I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens I am covered.

I usually recommend  Safety Wing but now you can also compare more travel insurance companies on the TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER platform.

Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase.

⬇️ Get your free travel insurance quote on Safety Wing ⬇️

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.

If you are a photographer, even an amateur like me you may want to check this camera bag, it passed as a cabin backpack for all the flight checks I had so far and it’s.

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

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Suitcase locks

If you want to be extra careful with your language make sure you lock them. Here a cheap and safe lock that is TSA Approved.

10. 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.

11. Infinitive scarves

The perfect solution for the airport’s outrageously low temperatures but also to hide your travel essentials like your phone and passport are these cute and soft infinitive scarves.

12. 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

13. 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 I am very pleased. It lasts forever.

14. Android And Kindle Battery charger long cable

Long cables are a great invention. There are some hotels that don’t have so many power outlets or they are far away from where you want to leave your phone. Long cables are the solution 🙂

15. Travel organizer

These are lifesavers if you want to have all your staff well organized and don’t go crazy every time you need to find something. Here I am sharing a few cute options.

⬇️ Click on one of the images to open the Amazon page ⬇️

16. 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.

⬇️ Click on one of the images to open the Amazon page ⬇️

17. Headphones

Well, if you love to hear your favorite 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. I have these ones too, as you can see in the picture!

18. 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

19. Deet-free Mosquito repellent bracelets

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

Mosquito bites are an issue in tropical countries and protecting you from mosquito bites is always a good move.

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

20. 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 purchased on Amazon, just a little more stylish and it comes in different colors.

21. Plug adapter

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.

You can read more about packing a Power outlet for Mexico in my detailed post.

22. 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 at  Walmart

23. 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

24. Journal

I realized I love to journal and I 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

PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

What to pack for Mexico for Personal Care

25. Toothbrush and its 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.

26. 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

27. 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 ⬇️

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.

Packing wise you need pretty much the same items.

Mexico Beach Accessories

28. 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 

29. 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

⬇️ Click on the image to check prices and purchase ⬇️

30. Sunscreen

You cannot go to Mexico without carrying sunscreen! I know I already included sunscreen in the section above.

But 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!

31. 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 yet practical. You can check out the original Panama Hats, or you can shop for some cheap fancy ones on Amazon.

Click on the images below to pick your favorite one!

32. 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.

⬇️ Click on the image to check prices and purchase ⬇️

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

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

33. 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.

34. 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.

35. 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)

PACKING LIST FOR MEXICO

36.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, though, just take my word 😉

⬇️ Cupshe 🩱 one piece – click on one of the images to check the price and buy!⬇️

⬇️ Cupshe bikini 👙 – click on one of the images to check the price and buy!⬇️

👙 You can purchase your favorite swimsuits and other beachwear items from the Cupshe Collection either from Amazon or from Cupshe’s official website ( watch out for special offers)! 👙

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37. 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.

Click on one of the images below to check prices and similar options.

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38. Mexico beach wear – Midi dresses

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.

39. Mexico beach wear – mini dresses

40. Mexico beach wear – Top

41. Mexico beach wear – Shorts

42. 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.

43. Elegant sandals for a night out

44. 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.

45. 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 many all-inclusive resorts 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 to 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.

46. 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 in spring and summer.

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

47. 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.

While the trousers, pants, and shoes listed above can also be used in winter, here below I will share some warm sweaters and jackets that fit well on cold winter days.

Just remember to pack some t-shirts anyway, to wear underneath in case in enclosed environments it gets hot.

Oh, on the other hand, do not be surprised to see furry coats here as in Mexico City or up in the mountains, it’s cold. So it’s always a good idea to know the temperature of the place that you are going to visit so you can pack accordingly.

👉 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.

48. Rain Jackets & mini umbrellas

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 cover 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.

✅ 49. 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

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

👉 BUY ON AMAZON NOW

✅ 51. Rash 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.

👉 BUY ON AMAZON NOW

✅ 52. Menstrual cups – There are many of them and it’s probably hard to get used to them 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

BONUS: 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 in tropical climates.

What to pack for Mexico: final thoughts

I hope this post gave you a broad idea of what you should pack for Mexico depending on when you are visiting and which Mexican destination. I will share here below specific packing lists for different destinations soon.

In the meantime, you may want to check out some useful posts about all the Mexican destinations

CANCUN – TULUM – YUCATAN – RIVIERA MAYA – OAXACA – BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR