The Ultimate Mexico Packing List (Separate List If Have Kids)

I love Mexico. The food, the culture, the people- it’s all amazing. I always have such a great time when I’m there. I’ve learned from my travels that packing for a trip can be tricky. So, here’s my packing list for a trip to Mexico.

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1. Swimsuits

This essentially is a given—but it’s a bit more. If you plan to spend a lot of time on the beach, bring more than one swimsuit so you can always have a dry one. And don’t forget your sunscreen! I always have three suits, and my husband always has two pairs of trucks.

2. Lightweight Clothing

The temperatures in Mexico can be pretty warm, so you’ll want to pack light and airy clothing. I like to bring a mix of short sleeves and tank tops for myself and a few sundresses that are easy to throw on. For my husband, we pack a variety of shorts and short-sleeved button-downs.

3. Comfortable Shoes

When you’re doing a lot of walking around, you want to make sure your shoes are comfortable. I like to bring a pair of sandals that I can slip on and off easily, and a pair of sneakers in case I want to go for a run or do something more active. My husband always brings his flip-flops and sneakers.

4. Water Shoes

If you’re planning on doing any activities in the water, like snorkeling or swimming, you’ll want to bring a pair of water shoes. They’ll protect your feet from any sharp objects or rocks. I love my Reef travel shoes.

5. Pants and a Light Jacket

I like to have something I can throw on if the weather gets cooler in the evening or if I’m going to be in air-conditioning. Even though it’s warm in Mexico, I always pack a pair of pants and a light jacket. I’m not the only one. My husband has his chinos and jacket too.

6. Beach Cover-Up

I always bring a cover-up to wear over my swimsuit. It’s nice to have something to throw on when you’re going from the beach to the restaurant. I like to bring a couple of different options to mix and match.

7. Evening Wear

If you’re planning to go out at night, you’ll want to pack something nice to wear. I like to bring a dress or skirt and a cute top. My husband usually brings a collared shirt and dress pants.

I don’t bring expensive jewelry. But I get inexpensive jewelry that I don’t mind losing. Most restaurants have a loose dress code, so you don’t have to worry about being too dressed or underdressed. I’ve also learned my husband can leave the tie at home.

8. Hat and Sunglasses

Again, the sun in Mexico can be quite intense, so you’ll want to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your face. I like to get a straw sunhat that can roll up quickly, so it doesn’t take up too much space in my suitcase. I lose my sunglasses, so I always bring a few pairs.

9. Flexible Beach Bag

You’ll want to bring a bag carrying all your beach essentials like sunscreen, towels, and water. I like to get a lightweight bag that can fold up small. Mine is excellent to travel with. I also have a beach blanket that folds up tiny for easy storage.

10. Passport and Documents

Of course, you’ll need your passport and any other documents you need for travel. I like to keep my passport in a safe place, like a money belt, so I don’t have to worry about losing it. I also make copies of my passport and other important documents, just in case I lose them while on vacation.

11. Toiletries

This is where you can save some space in your suitcase. I only pack the essentials—toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and body lotion. I also like to bring a small first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and antacids.

12. Dry Bag

I like to pack a dry bag to protect my electronics and other valuables from the elements. I use it for activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

13. Multi-Plug Outlet Extender

This is a must if you’re traveling with more than one person. You can plug in all your devices at once without worrying about fighting over outlets. Choose a reliable brand, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your devices.

14. Phone Charger

Make sure you pack your phone charger! I also like to bring a portable charger, just in case my phone runs out of battery. I also add an extra-long charging cable so that I can charge my phone from anywhere.

15. Noise-Canceling Headphones

I like to travel with noise-canceling headphones to block out the noise of the plane or the hotel. They’re also great to use in public places, like airports and coffee shops. I’ve been known to put them on while lying on the beach and feeling like I have the whole place to myself.

16. Travel Pillow

This is a personal preference, but I like to travel with a small pillow. It’s great for long flights or car rides. I can also use it as a pillow for my hotel room.

17. Microfiber Towels

I always pack a couple of microfiber towels. They’re lightweight and take up less space than traditional towels. They’re also quick-drying, so they’re perfect for travel.

18. Waterproof Phone Pouch

I like to pack a waterproof phone pouch, so I can take my phone with me when I go swimming or snorkeling. Protecting your phone from the sand and the sun is also great.

19. Travel Umbrella

I always pack a small travel umbrella. I’ve found that Mexico’s torrential rain can ruin the day. But if you’re prepared with an umbrella, you can still enjoy your time without getting drenched.

20. TSA Approved Padlock

I always pack a small TSA-approved padlock to lock my suitcase. It’s great for security and peace of mind.

Traveling With Children

Now, if you’re traveling with children, you’ll need to pack a few extra things. First, you have the same things as you had for adults:

Clothing for Kids in Mexico

1. Pants and Light Jacket

Even though it’s warm, kids need a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

2. Hat and Sunglasses

The sun is intense in Mexico, so protect your child’s skin with a hat and sunglasses. My toddler has a bucket-style hat, and my teens have baseball caps.

3. Bathing Suit

There are plenty of opportunities to take a dip in Mexico, so don’t forget the bathing suit! Like parents, bring a few extra bathing suits to have a dry one on hand.

4. Toiletries for Kids

The same toiletries apply to kids as adults, but pack a few extras, like sunscreen and insect repellent. Please pay attention to the size of the items when you’re flying, so TSA doesn’t make you toss them before boarding the plane.

5. Diapers and Wipes

If you have a baby or toddler, don’t forget the diapers and wipes! I like to pack a few extra, just in case. I bring a backpack instead of a diaper bag, so I have room for other things.

6. Extra Clothes

Babies and toddlers are notorious for spills and accidents. I like to pack a few extra outfits, just in case. And don’t forget the socks!

7. Toys

Bring a few of their favorite toys if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler. It will help them feel comfortable in a new place. For older kids, please bring along a few small toys to keep them entertained on the plane or in the car.

8. Books

Kids of all ages love books! I bring our tablets with us so that we can read eBooks. But I also pack a few physical books for the plane or car.

9. Coloring Books and Crayons

This is an excellent activity for kids of all ages. And it’s easy to pack!

10. Travel Games

I like to pack travel games for the whole family. We have a few favorites, like Uno and Spot It. Travel games are great for long car rides or waiting in airports.

Packing for an Extended Stay in Mexico

If you’re staying in Mexico for an extended period, you’ll need to pack a few additional items.

1. Clothing

Skip the extra clothes. Bring some favorites, such as your favorite jeans, and mix and match them with different tops. You can also pack a few dresses for special occasions. However, everything else you can buy while you’re in Mexico and ship what you want to keep to your full-time home after your extended stay.

2. Shoes

I like to travel with two pairs of shoes: one for everyday wear and one for dressier occasions. I also pack a pair of flip-flops or sandals to wear around the pool or beach.

3. Toiletries

You can buy most of your toiletries while you’re in Mexico. However, I like to pack my favorite shampoo, conditioner, and makeup products.

4. Technology

Be sure to pack your chargers for all of your devices. I also like to bring a small power strip so that I can charge multiple devices at the same time. I also add a battery pack to my phone, so I can trust it even in the most remote destinations while I travel, such as the cenotes in Mexico.

5. Entertainment

I like to pack a few books and some travel games. I also bring my tablet so I can watch movies or TV shows when I have downtime. There are many spotty coverage areas, so I recommend downloading lots of content before traveling.

6. Facial Masks

COVID-19 restrictions are still in place in some areas, so it’s a good idea to pack a few facial masks. Also, when you’re spending an extended time in Mexico, you’re most likely leaving behind many of the tourist locations, which means you’re more likely to encounter these restrictions.

I like to bring a couple of different styles, so I have options depending on my activity. And I always pack an extra in case I lose one.

7. 800-Thread Sheets

If you’re staying in an Airbnb or rental, you’ll want to bring your own sheets. I like to pack 800-thread sheets because they’re softer and more comfortable than the average sheet. Plus, they last longer, so you don’t have to worry about them getting ruined while you’re traveling.

8. A Yoga Mat

I always travel with a yoga mat. It’s great for doing yoga in your rental or Airbnb, but it also comes in handy for other activities, like beach workouts or picnics in the park.

9. Water Filtered Water Bottle

I never travel without a water-filtered water bottle. It’s essential for staying hydrated, especially in a hot climate like Mexico. I like to pack a reusable water bottle to fill it up at the airport or my rental and have filtered water throughout my trip. It’s also vital in areas where water isn’t safe for drinking.

10. Biodegradable Body Cleaning Wipes

I like to pack biodegradable body cleaning wipes because they’re great for a quick cleanup, especially when you don’t have time for a shower. They’re perfect for days when you’re exploring ancient ruins or hiking through the jungle. And they’re eco-friendly, so you can feel good about using them.

11. Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a must for me when I travel. It’s great for days when you don’t have time to wash your hair or if you’re in an area with hard water. Dry shampoo can also help extend the life of your blowout.

12. Door Jammer

I always pack a door jammer when I travel. It’s a great way to secure your rental or Airbnb, especially if you’re staying in an unfamiliar area. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and a door jammer gives me peace of mind when traveling.

13. Portable Speaker

I like to pack a portable speaker to listen to music while on the go. It’s also great for impromptu dance parties in your rental or Airbnb. I make sure to download my music before I travel so I can access it offline.

14. Mini Sewing Kit

I always travel with a mini sewing kit. It’s great for quick fixes, like hemming a dress or repairing a tear in your clothing. I’ve also used it to make temporary repairs to luggage and backpacks.

15. First-Aid Kit

No matter where you’re traveling, it’s always a good idea to pack a first-aid kit. I like to include items like bandages, antibiotic ointment, and pain relievers. I also add a small travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer to my kit.

Hopefully, this packing list will help you plan for your Mexico vacation. Remember to pack light and bring only the essentials. And don’t forget to have fun!