What to pack for Mexico isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. Unlike destinations with consistent weather, Mexico’s coastal regions tend to be warmer and sunnier than inland areas. Still, wherever you go, there’s always a chance of rain showers or cooler evenings after dusk.
Whether exploring ancient Mayan ruins, lounging on the beach, or immersing yourself in Mexico’s local culture and cuisine, being prepared for a variety of weather conditions will help you make the most of your trip.
Mexico Packing List: Clothing
From swimsuits to rain jackets, here are a few essentials to pack for your trip to Mexico.
Swimsuit and cover-up
Swimsuit
Whether you’re snorkeling over Cozumel’s coral reefs or relaxing on Mahahual Beach, a trip to Mexico definitely calls for swimwear. Bring at least two swimsuits so you’ll always have a dry one ready. It’s also a good idea to pack a quick-dry towel or lightweight cover-up that you can easily throw on when walking to and from the beach or stopping for lunch at a local restaurant.
Rain jacket or poncho
Rain jacket
From May to October, rain showers are common in most of Mexico, even when the weather is sunny, so it’s best to be prepared for any and all weather conditions. Choose a breathable rain jacket or poncho that you can easily scrunch up and tuck into your backpack.
A jacket with ventilation is ideal, as it helps you stay cooler and reduces sweat. If you’re planning to be out all day exploring the Mayan ruins and other beautiful attractions in Mexico, having something waterproof on hand is a smart move.
Light sweater
Light sweater
Overall, the weather throughout Mexico is warm year-round; however, it’s always a good idea to pack a sweater or light jacket in case you get cold. Evenings can be chilly, especially from November through February.
Even during the peak of summer, many places are air-conditioned and may feel cooler than necessary. It’s best to bring something thin yet comfortable, such as a cotton cardigan or hoodie.
Sun hat or wide-brimmed hat
Sun hat
The sun in Mexico is intense and a good hat can help prevent painful sunburn. Wide-brim hats are your best bet, as they provide shade for your face and neck. If you’re worried about fitting one into your luggage, go for a straw or fabric hat—both are flexible and easier to pack among your other clothing.
Alternatively, you can always pick one up while exploring the town. Walking around sporting a sombrero will immediately make you stand out as a tourist, though.
Casual evening outfit
Casual evening outfit
Most towns in Mexico, like Mahahual and San Miguel in Cozumel, are pretty casual. Still, it doesn’t hurt to pack one or two stylish evening outfits in case you want to dress up a bit for dinner.
For women, sundresses, maxi skirts, or jumpsuits are versatile and transition well from day to night. Men might opt for a short-sleeve button-down paired with tailored shorts.
Mexico Packing List: Beach & Adventure Gear
Adventure awaits in Mexico, and here’s the beach and adventure gear to help you make the most of your trip.
Dry bag
Dry bag
A dry bag is exactly what it sounds like: a travel-sized bag that keeps your valuables safe from water, sand, and humidity. At a minimum, you’ll want to store your phone, wallet, and camera inside. You may also want to pack extra items, such as a rain jacket or snacks, to enjoy while exploring.
Dry bags come in various sizes, depending on your needs. For Mexico, the best options are those that are both lightweight and fully waterproof.
Refillable water bottle
Refillable water bottle
Mexico basks in year-round warm weather, bringing endless opportunities for adventure, so staying hydrated is a must. While plastic water bottles are sold at nearly any shop you pass by, a refillable water bottle is better for the environment.
Many bars, restaurants, and tourist sites offer filtered water stations, making it easy to refill as you go; it’s better to avoid tap water, though. Insulated bottles are handy for keeping your water cool on extremely hot days.
Backpack or beach bag
Mayan ruins in Mexico
Whether you’re hitting the beaches or exploring Mayan ruins near Cozumel, you’ll need a bag to carry your essentials. A beach bag is ideal for long days on the sand or exploring local markets.
For water or land-based activities in Mexico, a sturdy backpack is a better choice. This could be a dry bag, as mentioned earlier, or a lightweight shoulder bag large enough to hold sunscreen, snacks, towels, and any camera gear you bring.
Quick-dry towel
Quick-dry towel
All-day excursions take you from the beach to the trails, and having a quick-dry towel on hand makes the transition much smoother. Unlike traditional towels that soak up moisture, take a long time to dry, and weigh down your backpack, quick-dry towels are made of microfiber. They are lightweight, highly absorbent, and dry quickly; perfect after a cooling dip in a cenote.
Mexico Packing List: Personal items
Whether you’re heading to Mexico for a week or just a few days, here are some personal items to toss in your suitcase.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen
When you’re checking off your list of what to pack for Mexico, sunscreen is a must, year-round. When possible, choose a broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen that won’t harm the coral reefs. Even if your sunscreen is labeled waterproof, it’s best to reapply every two hours or whenever you come out of the water or start sweating.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to hard-to-reach areas, such as your back, as well as commonly missed spots like your ears, the tops of your feet, and the back of your neck.
After sun lotion
After sun lotion
Hopefully, you won’t get sunburned while in Mexico. Still, it’s a good idea to pack after-sun lotion or aloe vera gel, just in case. These products help cool the skin after a burn and reduce redness and dryness.
Aloe vera is also soothing after any outdoor adventure, whether it’s snorkeling in the coral reefs off Cozumel or hiking the jungle trails near Costa Maya.
Bug spray or insect repellent
Insect repellent
Mosquitoes are common in Mexico, especially in tropical areas and after sunset. Choose an insect repellent with DEET or, as an alternative, one with natural ingredients, such as oil of lemon eucalyptus.
During the day, apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent. At night, consider wearing long sleeves—it might be a bit chilly anyway—or pants to help keep the bites at bay.
Basic toiletries
Basic toiletries
Personal toiletries vary from person to person, but there are a few essentials that are always worth having on hand. Be sure to pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any special hair products you use. It’s also a good idea to bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer for outdoor excursions and possibly some baby wipes for quick cleanups.
Medications
Medications
It may seem obvious, but be sure to pack any personal medications you may need during your trip to Mexico. This could include over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers or antihistamines, as well as prescription medications prescribed by your doctor back home.
Prescription medications are generally permitted in Mexico, but it’s essential to verify the rules and regulations beforehand.
Mexico Packing List: Tech essentials
To make the most of your Mexican getaway, here are a few tech essentials to bring with you.
Phone and charger
Phone
In today’s digital world, your smartphone is an essential part of everyday life. It helps you stay in touch with loved ones back home, decide where to eat and how to get there, and captures your adventures through photos and videos. Bring a portable power bank to Mexico, as some excursions can keep you out for most of the day, and you don’t want to run out of battery halfway through.
Outlet adapter with USB ports
Outlet adapter with USB ports
Your phone won’t be much use while traveling if you don’t remember to pack the necessary outlet adapter. Mexico uses Type A and B plugs, which are the same as in the U.S. and Canada, so depending on where you’re traveling from, you may or may not need to buy an adapter. If you plan to charge multiple devices simultaneously, look for an adapter with multiple USB ports.
Cell phone dry bag
Cell phone dry bag
A trip to Mexico means spending plenty of time near the water, and it’s natural to want to capture every moment with your phone. Cell phone dry bags let you paddleboard and enjoy other water sports without worrying about your phone falling in and getting damaged. For snorkeling excursions in Mexico, though, you might be better off using a waterproof camera rather than relying on a dry bag.
Portable Wi-Fi hotspot or local SIM card
Portable Wi-Fi hotspot
Depending on your cell phone provider, it might be a good idea to get a portable Wi-Fi hotspot before your trip to Mexico. This way, you’ll have reliable internet wherever you go. You won’t have to wait to connect to Wi-Fi at a nearby bar or restaurant. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card or an eSIM to avoid roaming charges.
Read: Mexico Travel Tips
What to Pack for Mexico FAQs
Here are some quick facts to know before you set off on your Mexican adventure.
What should I pack for a trip to Mexico?
As with any international trip, be sure to pack your passport, wallet, credit cards, prescription medications, and any other essentials you might need in case of an emergency. Mexico uses the same power outlets as North America, so travel adapters may or may not be necessary, depending on where you’re coming from. While toiletries are easily accessible once you arrive, bringing your favorite products can make your trip even more comfortable.
It’s a good idea to carry some cash in Mexico, where the local currency is the peso. A lot of street vendors still prefer cash, and cash is useful for tipping, too. You’ll find U.S. dollars are widely accepted but you will get a better deal, and the correct change, if you use pesos.
What should I wear in Mexico as a tourist?
When it comes to what to pack for Mexico, comfort is key. With year-round warm weather, lightweight clothing like cotton or linen is your best choice. These breathable fabrics help keep you cool in the heat and humidity. For beach days, pack one or two swimsuits, a cover-up, and flip-flops.
For evenings out, go with casual outfits that are easy to dress up—think sundresses for women and button-down shirts or polos for men. While most restaurants are laid-back, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of closed-toe shoes in case you decide to dine somewhere a bit more upscale.
Be sensitive to cultural appropriation in Mexico, which is frowned upon. Dressing in a sombrero and poncho is not especially respectful. Certain elements of Mexican culture, such as indigenous designs, are actually protected by law.
If you want to go inside churches, make sure knees and shoulders are covered and remove your hat.
What kind of shoes should I pack for Mexico?
Mayan ruins in Mexico
You’ll be doing a fair amount of walking during your trip to Mexico, so it’s a good idea to rotate between a few pairs of shoes to avoid blisters. For exploring Mayan ruins, towns, or narrow city streets, opt for breathable sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes. Flip-flops or sandals are ideal for the beach, pool, or short strolls through town.
While not essential, many travelers pack water shoes for activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, or navigating rocky terrain. These shoes are lightweight, easy to carry, and quick-drying. For dining at nicer restaurants, you may prefer to wear closed-toe shoes, such as loafers or flats.
Do I need to pack warm clothes for Mexico?
Restaurant in Cozumel
Mexico is generally a warm-weather destination, particularly in coastal areas such as Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, and Costa Maya. However, it’s a good idea to pack a few light layers in case it gets chilly at night or if it rains, or you’re eating in a restaurant with powerful air conditioning.
Usually, a lightweight sweater or cardigan is sufficient—there’s no need for anything too bulky, such as a wool coat. Keep in mind that higher elevations tend to be cooler both during the day and at night.
Cozumel
Now that you know what to pack for your trip to Mexico, it’s time to start planning your adventure. Browse Celebrity’s Mexico cruise itineraries and plan your dream vacation.
