Mexico packing is more nuanced than most destinations. In a single two-week trip you might move from Mexico City at 2,240m (bring layers) to Caribbean beach (pack reef-safe sunscreen) to Oaxacan highlands (cool nights). Here is the complete breakdown.
Power and Plugs
Type A/B, 127V — same as the United States. American devices work without any adapter. Europeans and Australians need a Type A/B adapter (inexpensive, get one before you leave — airport adapters are overpriced).
127V is slightly lower than the US standard 120V — no issue for any modern electronic. All modern phone chargers, laptops, and cameras handle 110-240V automatically.
Sun Protection — The Non-Negotiable
Mexico has extreme UV levels, especially on the Yucatan Peninsula. SPF 50+ is the minimum — reapply every 90 minutes regardless of what the bottle says.
Critical for cenotes and ocean swimming: Conventional sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate is banned at cenotes and increasingly in Cancun and Tulum marine areas — rangers will turn you away. Pack biodegradable/mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) for any water activities.
Our recommendations are on the packing list page.
Clothing
For Beach Destinations (Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco)
- Lightweight clothing — linen, cotton, moisture-wicking synthetics
- At least 2 swimsuits (drying time in humidity can be slow)
- Rash guard for snorkeling — also protects from sun
- Reef shoes or water sandals
- Light jacket or long sleeves for over-air-conditioned restaurants and transport
- Sundress or light pants for evening dining
For Highland/Colonial Cities (Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Miguel, Guanajuato)
- Layers are essential — nights at elevation can be 10-15C even in summer
- At least one warmer layer (fleece or light jacket)
- Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support — cobblestones are uneven
- Light rain jacket (June-September afternoon showers in CDMX and Oaxaca)
For Ruins and Archaeological Sites
- Long pants or lightweight convertible pants for climbing — knees appreciate the padding
- Hat with brim — mandatory at Chichen Itza, Teotihuacan, Monte Alban
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes — ruins have uneven stone, sharp edges
- Extra socks — you will sweat more than expected
Health Essentials
Water: Never drink tap water in Mexico. Buy bottled water at every destination — it is cheap and available everywhere. Use bottled water to brush your teeth if you want to be cautious.
Stomach: Mexico City and smaller towns can cause traveler’s diarrhea. Common remedies to pack: Imodium, oral rehydration salts, Pepto-Bismol tablets. Probiotics taken daily starting 1 week before departure significantly reduce risk.
Altitude: For Mexico City and Oaxaca — altitude sickness medication (acetazolamide/Diamox) is prescription. Ask your doctor if you have concerns. Most people manage with hydration and rest.
Mosquitoes: Dengue fever is present in tropical coastal areas. Pack DEET-based repellent (30%+) for evenings in Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Oaxacan coast. The Yucatan and coast have year-round mosquito activity.
Documents
- Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
- Travel insurance documents (printed)
- Copies of passport separate from original
- Yellow fever certificate if arriving from South America or Africa
- Emergency contacts and insurance hotline numbers
Money
- MXN pesos — have cash for markets, street food, small towns, cenotes
- US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas but at unfavorable exchange rates
- ATMs: Use airport or bank ATMs rather than tourist-area machines. Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card locks
- Carry some cash always — many cenotes and rural markets are cash-only
What to Leave Home
- Adapters from US: Not needed — same plug as USA
- Heavy guide books: Everything is on your phone
- Hair dryer: Every decent hotel provides one
- Towels: All accommodation provides them
- Denim jeans: Too hot for most of Mexico, too heavy, slow to dry
Packing for Our Mexico Itinerary (12 Days, 3 Regions)
For the Mexico City → Oaxaca → Yucatan trip, Scott packs in a 40L carry-on only. The key to making this work: do laundry in Oaxaca. Most hotels offer same-day laundry service for MXN 100-150 per load. Rolling clothes instead of folding saves significant space.
For the full curated gear list with Amazon links, visit our dedicated Mexico Packing List page.