Mexico is a popular vacation destination that offers beautiful beaches, rich culture, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and incredible food. With warm and sunny weather year-round, deciding what to pack for your trip can be tricky. Here's a complete packing guide for your next vacation in Mexico.
Swimwear
Mexico is famous for its gorgeous beaches along the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. You'll definitely want to spend time relaxing on the sand and splashing in the waves, so be sure to bring:
Bathing Suits
- Pack 2-3 bathing suits so you'll always have a dry option. Choose supportive styles if you'll be active.
- Opt for brighter colors/prints over white, which can become see-through when wet.
- Rash guards and swim shirts help prevent sunburns for extra coverage.
Beach Cover Up
- Lightweight kaftans, sarongs, or beach dresses to throw on for lunch or shopping.
- Choose airy cottons or rayon blends over thick terrycloth.
- Sheer, flowy fabrics work well as stylish cover-ups over your suit.
Lightweight Summer Clothes
With hot and humid weather ranging 80-90°F year-round in coastal resort areas, lightweight fabrics that breathe and dry quickly are key.
Tops
- Tank tops, t-shirts, halter tops, peasant blouses. Light cottons, rayon, or linen blends.
- Flowy cuts and loose silhouettes keep you cooler in the heat.
- Bring 3-4 and mix & match for variety. Stick to solids/simple prints.
Shorts & Skirts
- Casual denim shorts, skorts, skirts that hit above the knee due to heat.
- Lightweight chino shorts and casual summer dresses work well too.
- Choose breathable natural fabric blends where possible.
- Bring 2-3 pairs in neutral colors to mix & match.
Pants & Dresses
- Very lightweight pants/skirts for evenings or heavily air-conditioned restaurants
- Loose linen or rayon blend cropped pants, maxi skirts, sundresses.
- Flowy silhouette, 3/4 or long sleeves, down to ankles for bug protection.
Shoes
With so much time spent on your feet sightseeing and exploring all day long, shoes matter.
Water Shoes
- Protect feet from sharp rocks/coral when swimming at beaches.
- Quick dry materials like mesh or rubber, strap closure for active water fun.
Sandals
- Leather or sturdy rubber soles, ankle strap support on trails/stairs.
- Low wedges or flat soles best for all day wear around towns.
Sneakers
- Good to have 1 pair for hiking ruins/jungles, long days on your feet.
- Breathable mesh athletic sneakers that dry quickly if wet.
Layers & Light Jackets
The weather stays warm year-round, but lightweight layers help during if colder temps in evening, rain showers pop up, or heavily air-conditioned spaces.
Sweaters & Cardigans
- Light cotton or linen knits. Tossed over sundresses or tanks for evenings/restaurants.
- Neutrals like black, tan, navy pair well with all outfits.
Rain Jacket / Windbreaker
- Thin water/wind resistant jacket. Fold up into bag when not wearing.
- Neutral color like black, olive, gray for versatility.
Shawls & Scarves
- Rectangular cotton/viscose scarf for shoulders. Large enough to use as blanket or impromptu beach cover up too.
- Lightweight open weave fabric that fits in purse.
Accessories
Don’t forget extras that protect from sun, finish off outfits, and keep essentials handy while exploring destinations.
Hat
Wide brim fabric hat helps keep sun off face and shoulders. Solid neutral colors like tan, black, navy pair with anything.
Sunglasses
Pick large shaped frames with UV protection. Simple black is classic, or match to your personality.
Handbag / Tote
Sturdy natural fabric bag on shoulder straps. Keeps items secure while active on-the-go sightseeing days.
Sarong / Pareo
Lightweight cotton sarong packs up small. Usable as impromptu beach cover up, blanket, shade provider.
Toiletries & Medicines
Don't forget travel-sized toiletries, meds, and first aid items you may need. Key essentials include:
- Biodegradable sunscreen / aloe vera gel for sun protection
- Insect repellent spray / wipes – protection from mosquitos & bugs
- Antihistamines for allergies or reactions
- Imodium / Pepto tablets in case of stomach issues
- Bandages / antibiotic cream / pain relievers
- Hand sanitizer / sanitizing wipes
The Essential Packing List
Here’s a handy checklist of all the essential items to pack for your perfect vacation in sunny Mexico:
Clothing
- 2-3 bathing suits
- 3-4 lightweight tops
- 2 pairs shorts
- 1 pair pants / skirt
- 1-2 dresses / cover ups
- 1 sweater / cardigan
- 1 rain jacket
Shoes
- 1 pair water shoes
- 1 pair sandals
- 1 pair sneakers
Accessories
- 1 hat
- 1 pair sunglasses
- 1 handbag / tote
- 1 sarong / pareo
Toiletries
- Sun protection
- Insect repellent
- Medications
Conclusion
With this comprehensive packing guide, you'll be all set for your vacation in Mexico. Remember to pack light and choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Don't forget to leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs! Enjoy your trip to beautiful Mexico!
