If you’re traveling to Mexico, traveling via Air Canada and you want to make sure you got everything you need without having to pay for excess baggage fees, here’s our recommended packing list:
A Sturdy Travel Backpack
Dragging a large suitcase is no easy feat and you don’t want to have to do this for your trip to Mexico. Instead, go for a carry on-sized travel backpack. In Mexico, you’ll be wandering on the streets, taking buses, and perhaps even going from one city to another.
Make it easy for yourself by bringing a backpack instead of a large and heavy suitcase. Besides, a backpack will help you avoid checked baggage fees or even lost luggage.
Clothes
For guys, bringing two pairs of shorts and a handful of shirts should be enough for a weeklong trip to Mexico.
Women can bring a few skirts or dresses, as well as athletic shorts if planning to do outdoor activities. T-shirts and tank tops would come in handy especially when you’re traveling during summer or spring.
Sandals and Sneakers
Women should bring a pair of comfortable sandals to wear to a nice restaurant or simply when walking around town. Pack breathable flats for a day at the beach, as well as a pair of sneakers in case you plan to do some hiking or walking tours.
Swimwear
Chances are you will be visiting a beach in Mexico so be sure to pack a few swimwear including a cover up. This is especially true if you’re going to Cabo, Cancun and other places with gorgeous beaches.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
In many places and resorts, these things can be overpriced so be sure to bring a few bottles. If you don’t have any checked baggage, keep the size to less than 3.4 oz otherwise you’ll have to leave those items at the airport.
Medications
Of course you can buy OTC meds in Mexico but it would be a hassle having to go to a pharmacy when you have a headache or a tummy ache.
Be sure to pack some Ibuprofen, Dramamine, Imodium, and any other maintenance medications you’re taking.
Sarong or Travel Towel
Even if you’re staying in a hotel, bringing a small travel towel or sarong will still come in handy because you can’t really bring your hotel towel to the beach. A sarong can also double as a beach blanket or cover up.
Daypack
A daypack is convenient and will carry a few things when you’re out hiking, sightseeing, or lounging at the beach. Daypacks also don’t occupy a lot of space in your luggage when not in use.
Coin/Change Purse
In Mexico, cash is king so it’s a good idea to bring two wallets – one with your IDs, US dollars and credit cards; and another with some loose bills and small change.
If you’re in a restaurant, pull out your main wallet when paying. If you’re in a market, pull out your change purse so you can try to haggle with vendors for a lower price.
Travel Essentials
No matter where you travel to, you should always bring the following:
- Passport (also have copies of your passport)
- Toiletries (travel size shampoo, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
- Underwear
- Socks
- Electronics and chargers
- Earphones
- Kindle
- Reusable water bottle