The Ultimate Packing List for Mexico

A quick guide to everything you may need or have forgotten on your packing list for Mexico! Use this list and download the printable packing checklist to help you in preparing for your next Mexico trip.

Overview of Mexico

How to pack for for Mexico

Mexico weather details

Mexico is a place with varied landscapes but, unless you’re in the mountains, it’s pretty dang hot and HUMID! You can just about any time of year and enjoy the perfect beach weather, although honestly, I wouldn’t recommend the Yucatan Peninsula in the summer. It really isn’t that much hotter than usual, but it is sargasso season, meaning most of the beaches will be filled with seaweed. When traveling to Mexico, you should be prepared for the heat and beach!

Need more info? Check out my guide to Solo Travel in Mexico for everything you need to know!

As you create your packing list for Mexico, let’s split into two sections: Gear/Toiletries and Clothing.

Gear and Toiletries

1. Waterproof phone case

You’re on a boat, you’re snorkeling, you’re diving, whatever! A waterproof phone case is a must-have. I also like this one because there’s a lanyard on your neck so it’s harder to lose it. These bags are a great alternative when you’re not willing to shell out so much money for a Lifeproof and they actually work super well!

2. Dry bag

A dry bag is a must as well, so you have a dry place to keep all your belongings.

3. Snorkel gear

Some places will let you rent snorkel gear, but when you’re doing it so often (like in Mexico), it’s a great idea to buy your own. You can get the basic snorkel mask (seen below), but if you’ve ever used a full face snorkel mask (above), you know how they’re so worth the extra cost!

4. Sunscreen

PROTECT YOUR SKIN. I don’t care if you never burn; it’s always important to have some kind of sunscreen to protect your skin, even if it’s SPF 15. I prefer the spray sunscreens so that my hands don’t get all sticky from the cream.

5. After-sun

If you didn’t listen to me when I said to buy sunscreen, or you just have the unfortunate gene where you burn easily, you will need some after-sun lotion. I love this one because it smells amazing (faintly like coconut!), contains aloe vera, comes in body butter or lotion, and feels great on your skin.

6. Hair texturizing mist

When you’re going straight to dinner from the beach, or don’t have time to dry your hair before heading out, this texturizing mist will save your life. Just spray it in real quick to have the beach waves of your dreams.

7. Insect repellent

I bet you almost forgot this! That’s okay, it’s what I’m here for. Mosquitoes and other bugs are crazy in Mexico so you will need insect repellent. If you’re anything like me, I absolutely hate the smell of insect repellent and will sometimes suffer just so I don’t have to smell the stuff. At least that is, until I found this repellent. It smells like a blend of lemon and eucalyptus and I’ll never go back to normal insect repellent.

8. Tinted moisturizer

I’m just going to say it now: THERE IS NO POINT WEARING MAKEUP IN MEXICO. Now, I love wearing makeup just as much as the next girl, but when you’re sweating all day, plus snorkeling in the water, any makeup you wear WILL come off. However, lately I have been a huge advocate of tinted moisturizer.

This stuff will even out your skin tone enough to wear you don’t feel as self-conscious, as well as moisturizing your skin and providing you with SPF 30 sunscreen. You know how we’re always jealous of guys for having 3-in-1 products? This is it. My favorite brand is the NARS one, but the Bare Minerals one is a cheaper alternative that I also like.

9. Waterproof mascara

If you said, “I don’t care if I sweat it off, I still want to wear makeup!” Okay, okay fine, but at least do me a favor and use some waterproof mascara. This way you won’t have to worry about looking like a raccoon all the time. I’m obsessed with this highly rated drugstore dupe mascara:

Clothes

1. Kimono/cover-up

Imagine this: You’re walking around Mexico. It’s sweltering, you’re dying to get to the beach, and it’s so unfair that guys get to walk around without shirts when it’s this hot. Technically you could just walk around in your swimsuit, but it’s a bit uncomfortable when no one else is doing it (at least for me).

That’s why kimonos will SAVE YOUR LIFE. I bought one on my last trip and it was the best purchase I could have made. You can wear it with your swimsuit, and still look much more decent, and you can add it to any outfit even after you’re returned home! Seriously a lifesaver.

2. Swimsuits

Obviously you can’t forget your swimsuit! I’m obsessed with this one-shoulder masterpiece and would love to get one in every color!

3. Summer dresses

Summer dresses are essential! Who wants to put shorts on after they’re all wet at the beach?? Dresses are just the way to go and I’m obsessed with these floral ones, although they do come in a variety of colors.

A wrap dress is also perfect for covering up that swimsuit and still looking nice for dinner.

4. Sandals

Because no one wants to wear socks and sneakers to the beach. I’m obsessed with these Steve Madden sandals that are comfortable and are a great price.

5. Sun hat

Last but not least, a sun hat is a nice touch for photos, as well as keeping your face out of the sun. This particular one is a good price, but still foldable and therefore packable!

Check out the other guides on Mexico!