What to Pack for Mexico: Our Personal Packing List

Trying to figure out exactly what to pack for your trip to Mexico? You’ve come to the experts. 

Packing can be a bit overwhelming, especially for a diverse place like Mexico. Whether you’re setting off on a beach day, pounding the pavement exploring cities, or taking off on an epic day trip, you’ll experience a lot in one trip.

Lucky for you, we’ve spent a lot of time in Mexico and travel back whenever we can! Throughout our travels, we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) what’s actually worth bringing—and what you can leave at home.

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it contains some of the items that we believe are true “must-haves”. We built this from real experience to help you feel prepared, organized, and ready to fully enjoy your trip without overpacking or unnecessary stress.

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What to Pack for Your Mexico Trip

1. Filter Water Bottle

This LARQ PureVis 2 water bottle is high on the list for many reasons! It has a built-in filter, allowing you to drink water from any source with its high-quality purification system.

Normally, you won’t want to drink tap water in Mexico, but this water filter makes it safe to drink! Instead of buying a new plastic water bottle every day, you can simply reuse this one. It’s easy if you’re out exploring and want to make sure your water is safe!

It also self-cleans every 2 hours, which is great if you’re traveling for a few weeks and don’t have time to clean it yourself. I was so impressed when I started using this water bottle – it’s seriously ahead of its time! I picked up replacement filters when I purchased my bottle, since you’ll need to replace them every 2 months. 

Another excellent filter bottle is the LifeStraw Water Bottle. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that the LARQ Bottle has, it does its main job well and is a more affordable option. We like how it’s lightweight and compact, so if you throw it in your backpack or carry it on a hike, it isn’t too heavy or bulky. It filters out parasites, microplastics, bacteria, and even sand, dirt, or unknown cloudiness in water.

It’s a convenient travel item that gives you peace of mind while you travel to foreign places. Don’t forget to pick up a replacement filter as well, so you’re never without filtered water.

2. Reef Safe Sunscreen

One thing I never skip packing for Mexico is reef-safe sunscreen, and this one is my go-to. If you’re planning a trip to the Yucatan to snorkel in the reefs of a cenote, getting reef-safe sunscreen is essential! In fact, it’s enforced in certain areas, such as the Riviera Maya and eco-parks (where most of the cenotes are).

We love that Mexico is taking conservation seriously, and we want to do our part! Using a mineral sunscreen really matters when you’re swimming, snorkeling, or even just rinsing off after the beach around the coral reefs and marine life.

While you might be able to find reef-safe sunscreen once you get to Mexico, any that we’ve seen have been much more expensive! After trying a few different brands, this one is my personal favorite because it holds up against the intense sun and humidity of Mexico. It also stays on even after a few dips in the ocean, so you’re not reapplying all the time.

3. Microfiber Towel

Microfiber towels are another one of those “must-pack” items that all seasoned travelers will swear by. This is especially true in Mexico, where you might be using it at the beach, on a waterfall hike, or on a snorkeling tour. Since microfiber towels are so small and lightweight, they are really easy to pack and come in handy frequently!

While there are a lot of options out there, I prefer this microfiber towel! It comes in a variety of sizes, so you can choose what is best for you. It’s quick drying and packable, and high-quality microfiber – I’ve used the same towel for years, and it’s held up!

4. Bug Balm Repellent

Mexico has a diverse climate, but one thing that never wavers is the bugs. Whether you’re in the jungle, the mountains, or the desert, the bugs will be there. Dengue is prevalent in Mexico, and after having it myself, I am persistent about insect repellent!

My friend told me about this repellent balm, and now I totally swear by it! It’s made with natural products, so it’s eco-friendly and feels light and clean on your skin. Best of all, it actually works really well at repelling mosquitoes and other unfavorable flying creatures. I also really like that it’s a balm, so it doesn’t leak if I toss it in my bag, and it’s small, so I take it everywhere with me. 

Small, packable, TSA-approved, and a lifesaver! You don’t want to leave without it.

5. Travel Medications

It’s always good to be prepared, especially when you’re traveling in a foreign country. After getting sick one too many times, we’ve learned how important it is to pack a solid travel med kit—and this particular one truly has it all.

While you can find pharmacies all over Mexico, it can be tricky navigating a language barrier or ending up with an unfamiliar off-brand (I know this from experience!). From food poisoning and allergies to cuts or basic pain relief, having everything you need in one place is a huge relief.

6. On-the-go hygiene

We love traveling to more remote destinations, and Mexico’s stunning beauty is best found off the beaten path! But you know what’s not often included when you go rogue? Proper bathrooms.

Another easy, small packing tip that can make a big difference is to keep a little on-the-go hygiene kit in your day bag. There will be many times when you stop at a bathroom that lacks toilet paper and soap, so skip the middleman and bring your own!

I love this Mrs. Meyers’ hand sanitizer – honestly, anything from this brand! It’s small and packable, smells amazing, and is antibacterial. Keep it in your bag and spray it on before you eat, after using the toilet, or after visiting a busy market.

Additionally, packing some travel-sized toilet wipes is a game-changer. Especially if you get hit with some sort of food poisoning or your stomach is adjusting to travel. Having some wipes on hand just gives me peace of mind!

7. Sun Shirt

One of my newest additions to my tropical climate packing list is a sun shirt! These are lightweight, long-sleeved shirts with UV protection, ideal for protecting your skin if you’re out in the sun for a long time. 

I like using these for any sort of boat trip, beach day, or any time I’m planning on being outside all day. It offers more protection than sunscreen, and you don’t have to reapply all the time. The Mexican sun is more intense because you’re so much closer to the equator, so don’t underestimate it!

For women, I recommend this specific sun shirt. It’s the one I’ve had for years, and it’s kept me cool in the hot weather and safe from sunburns. This men’s sun shirt is of the same quality and one of the top-rated options out there!

8. Anti-theft bag

Unfortunately, petty theft and pickpocketing are problems in Mexico. Especially in heavily tourist areas like Cancun or Mexico City, you really want to exercise caution and use street smarts so you don’t lose your valuables.

We’ve been pick-pocketed while traveling before, and as frustrating as losing personal belongings or money is, it’s more of the violating feeling that stays with you. 

So to combat any chance of that, we picked up an anti-theft crossbody bag. I was skeptical at first, but we haven’t had any pickpocketing or issues since! It’s small enough to be packable and great for a day bag, and it fits a surprising amount of things. Best of all, it keeps your passport, wallet, keys, and other belongings safe!

9. Neck Pillow

If you haven’t started traveling with a neck pillow yet, you’re missing out. 

I was against them for a while, simply for the space they take up, but once I started flying with this neck pillow, I was hooked. Now I can’t travel without it! One of the reasons I love this one is that it’s super packable and can roll up into a small ball. Once I’m off the flight, I can ball it up and put it in my backpack, and I don’t have to worry about it anymore. 

10. Comfortable walking sandals

One of my biggest stressors when packing is figuring out the exact right items to bring, especially when we’re talking shoes! Not only are the bulky items limiting you to how many pairs you can bring, but they also need to check all of the boxes. For me, comfort is key, but I also like functionality and a bit of fashionability, if possible. 

Both Dan and I love Tevas for comfort, durability, and they still look good! I have a pair of these Teva Hydraktrek sandals, and they are perfect whether we are hiking to a waterfall, exploring a city, or walking on the beach. Another one of my favorite travel sandals is these EVA Birkenstocks. They are made with a durable foam, making them super lightweight and ideal for a hostel shower or a cute summer dress.

Dan swears by his Teva Hurricanes for the men. They have padding around the toes and heels so they don’t rub while you’re breaking them in. Luckily, Tevas are considered “cool” (trust me), so they work no matter where you travel!

11. Daypack

Another essential on my Mexico packing list is a lightweight day pack, and this REI Flash 22 is the one I always reach for. 

You’ll be out exploring most days during your Mexico trip, wandering through ancient sites, shopping in the market, relaxing on the beach, or taking off on a day trip. Having a versatile backpack that fits everything you need for the day is key.

I can easily pack sunscreen, water, snacks, a rain jacket (because those rain showers can come out of nowhere during the rainy season), and my camera gear. What I love most is how compact it is. It fits easily in my luggage or works perfectly as a personal item on the plane, but once you’re there, it still holds everything you need for a full day of adventures.

If you’re looking to travel with a large backpack instead of a suitcase, we highly recommend this Cotopaxi Allpa. This is the backpack we’ve used for a few years now, and it’s my all-time favorite. It opens up like a suitcase, so it’s easy to stay organized, and at 42 liters, you can actually pack so many things in here – trust me, we live out of these backpacks! They are also very comfortable to wear if you’re carrying them through the airport or on the trail.

12. Women’s Clothing

Throughout my years of travel, I’ve learned that buying higher-quality items lasts much longer, and you usually don’t have to do laundry as often because these fabrics don’t hold on to smells. It’s ideal if you’re traveling for an extended period of time or don’t have access to laundry for your entire trip. 

For tops, I love this moisture-wicking t-shirt and this tank top! Not only do they go with a lot of outfits, but they are also breathable, ideal for hot temperatures. 

And for something a little fashion-forward that can withstand hot climates, I love these flowy pants! They are lightweight and packable, yet super cute, and they can go over a swimsuit or be worn for walking around town. I also love this maxi dress, which is stylish yet conservative, great for day trips, visiting historic sites, or again, after the beach!

Finally, socks. I never really thought about buying good quality socks vs. cheap socks – but it actually makes a difference! Especially if you’re traveling and can’t pack 20 pairs of socks. These merino wool ankle socks can actually be worn multiple times without a wash, and they don’t get stinky. For hiking, I prefer these crew socks. 

13. Men’s Clothing

As far as men’s clothing goes, there are some great items that will make your pack lighter but are just as efficient! 

Dan has had this merino wool t-shirt for years and loves to wear it in hot or cold climates. It’s breathable and actually keeps you cooler, so it’s great for a hike or exploring the city, but still has wool properties that keep you warm when temperatures drop. This athletic shirt is another option that’s frequently packed, at a slightly more affordable rate. 

These Vuori pants have a similar appeal because the fabric is so lightweight! But they are nicer-looking than average athletic pants, so you can wear them out exploring, then sit down to a fancy dinner without having to change.

And we can’t forget about the socks! As I said earlier, the quality makes a difference. We’ve both had this brand of merino socks for years, and they last forever and keep your feet cool in the heat and warm in the winter. 

14. Rain Jacket

Mexico’s rainy season is from May to October, and during this season, you might have a bright, beautiful morning, followed by torrential downpours in the afternoon. It varies by region, but is more prevalent in the coastal regions. Watch out for hurricanes towards the end of the season as well.

That being said, packing a rain jacket is essential! I love REI’s Trailmaid rain jacket because they are lightweight, breathable, and waterproof, not just water-resistant. It’s great in a hot, humid climate because it keeps you cool and dry, and the coat itself dries quickly as well.

You can get this jacket in men’s or women’s, and don’t worry, they have multiple colors, so you don’t have to match your partner. Check out the men’s REI Trailmade rain jacket or the women’s Trailmade jacket here! 

15. Portable Charger

A portable charger quickly became one of my must-haves when traveling, no matter where I’m going! 

There are many days when we would leave in the morning and be out for the entire day. So while I started with a full charge, by the time we spent a few hours exploring a city, looking up lunch restaurants, and getting directions to the meeting point for an afternoon tour, my phone would be nearly dead. 

We love this portable charger specifically because it holds a charge forever – I usually don’t even have to charge it on a trip! It also has multiple types of cords, so we can charge Dan’s Android, my iPhone, and even our GoPro while we’re out and about. Plus, it’s not ultra-heavy or bulky, so it doesn’t take up too much space in a bag. 

16. Travel Adapter

A travel adapter is one of those items that is easily overlooked, but can be essential depending on where you’re from! Mexico uses typical North American electrical outlets – type A and B.

We have this universal travel adapter, which is really handy because you only need this one, no matter where you travel. It also has multiple charging ports, which can be helpful as hotels often have a shortage of plugs. This is a must-pack for any international trip, in my opinion. I keep it in my bag all the time, that way I don’t forget it, as this is often overlooked!

17. E-SIM

You’ve probably used SIM cards while traveling, but have you converted to an eSIM yet? Dan and I have recently been won over by the ease of eSIMs – instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. 

We’ve tried out a handful of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve decided that Airalo is our favorite! It is really easy to set up (even my mom figured it out on her own!), and still very affordable. You can choose the amount of data and the length of the plan, and your phone will easily connect to a local network. 

Plus, you won’t have to try and get a SIM card at the airport, or be worried about being overcharged by a vendor (which happens a lot!). This is definitely the most straightforward way to go!

New users can get 15% off by using the code DTRAVEL15, and returning users can get 10% off their next eSIM by using DTRAVEL10 when you follow our link below!

18. Packing Cubes

Staying organized while packing is a game-changer, especially if you plan on visiting multiple destinations in Mexico. If you’re looking for a way to keep everything neat and tidy, TSA-friendly, and stress-free so you can focus on your adventure (and not laundry day), packing cubes are one of my favorite organizational tools.  

These packing cubes are a lifesaver for keeping everything organized—clean clothes, swimwear, leisure outfits, and even a separate cube for laundry after sweaty days. They make unpacking and repacking so much easier, especially if you’re changing locations often. If you’ve never used packing cubes before, they will change your perspective on packing altogether! 

19. Dry Bags

A dry bag is one of those items that you think twice about packing, but then are so thankful you have it! Between boat rides, beach days, cenote swims, and sudden tropical downpours, your essentials are constantly at risk for water damage! 

We use these lightweight dry bags because they don’t take up much space but are perfect for protecting clothes, cameras, or snacks on excursions. They are especially useful for rafting or whale watching trips where splashes are unavoidable. 

20. Kindle

My Kindle e-book is another non-negotiable when packing! It’s the perfect on-the-go entertainment and a great alternative to doom-scrolling, or to use when you’re out of service.

I know, many people prefer a real book over an e-book, but I actually started reading more when I got my Kindle. It’s easier to hold than a book, and it stores my entire library on the device, so I’m never without my next read. Honestly, for travel, it’s the way to go!

21. Walking Shoe

We’ve spent a lot of time in Mexico, and always find ourselves getting a lot of steps in! Packing a pair of decent walking shoes is essential, and you’ll need something versatile to handle plenty of walking and a bit of adventuring. If you’re planning on doing any ATV tours, horseback rides, or ziplines, closed-toe shoes are required. We also prefer wearing good shoes when exploring sites like Chichen Itza!

For women, you’ll love this pair of On Cloud 6 shoes. They are comfortable and durable, without being too bulky when packing. I also like that they have mesh, so they are breathable in Mexico’s heat. Lastly, they look good with almost any outfit!

For men, you can’t go wrong with these Brooks Ghost 17 shoes. Brooks makes really good shoes that are comfortable for walking and lightweight for packing. They are really popular, so don’t wait to get your pair!

Extra Travel Items We Love

Renting a Car in Mexico

Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car. 

I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically. 

I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too. 

Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit. 

Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper! 

Thanks for reading!

Mexico is one of those places where it pays to be prepared. From personal experience, nothing can make your trip less than amazing by packing incorrectly! But don’t worry, we’ve traveled all over the country, and these items are always in my bag. So stick to our recommendations, and you will be ready for any adventure!

Before you take off, check out our other Mexico travel blogs. Besides packing, we love sharing our favorite travel tips and tricks to make your vacation as memorable as possible. I’ll leave a few blogs below to inspire your next destination and help you plan the perfect trip to Mexico – cheers!

​​22 Things to Know BEFORE Renting a Car in Mexico

Where to Stay in Mexico City, Mexico: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Cancun, Mexico: The Best 5-Day Itinerary