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What to Pack for Ixtapa

What to Pack for Ixtapa

Ixtapa Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide

Climate Clothing

Ixtapa's tropical climate means warm weather throughout the year. Pack light and breathable clothing.

Seasonal Guidance

  • Dry Season (Nov-May): Lightweight fabrics (cotton, linen), shorts, t-shirts, Swimwear. Light cover-up for evenings.
  • Wet Season (Jun-Oct): Quick-drying fabrics, Lightweight rain jacket or Poncho.
  • Cultural Note: Beachwear near hotels. More conservative dress (covered shoulders/knees) for Zihuatanejo town, markets, churches.

Activity Attire

Dress for your planned adventures.

What to Wear

Footwear Guide

Beach & Pool

Flip-flops or Water sandals are practical choices.

Easy on/off

Walking & Sightseeing

Comfortable walking sandals or breathable Sneakers work well.

All-day comfort

Water Activities

Water shoes help on rocky beaches or boat trips.

Protection & grip

Essential Documents

Document Checklist

Carry physical and digital copies of your most important papers. Store copies separately from originals.

  • Passport and visa documentation (FMM).
  • Travel insurance policy information.
  • International driving permit (if renting car).
  • Vaccination records and health documents (prescription list, doctor's note for meds).
  • Printed/digital copies of reservations (hotel, flight, tour).
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy).
  • Student/senior/press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Digital backup of all important data (cloud storage).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Phones

Stay connected and charge your devices.

Connectivity Basics

  • Power: Mexico uses 127V, 60Hz. Plug types A/B (same as US/Canada). Universal travel adapter for other regions.
  • Mobile Phone: Most smartphones compatible. Check if unlocked.
  • SIM Cards: Local SIM (Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar) cost-effective for data. Buy at airport, OXXO, or stores. Airalo for eSIM.

Cameras & Apps

Capture memories and move around easily with apps.

Digital Tools

Digital Safety

Back Up Everything

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an external hard drive for photos and documents.

Device Security

Lock your devices. Use strong passwords. Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks unless using a VPN.

Cyber Protection

Consider a VPN for secure browsing on public networks. Update software before travel.

Health & Wellness Items

Your Health Kit

Pack a personal health kit for common travel ailments and sun exposure.

First Aid Basics

Meds & Sun Care

Bring what you need, protect from the sun.

Special Needs

  • Prescription medications: Original packaging, pharmacy labels. Doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Over-the-counter for colds, flu, motion sickness, eye drops, antiseptic cream.
  • Sun protection: High SPF Sunscreen (Reef-safe), hats, UV sunglasses, After-sun.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern in Ixtapa (sea level).
  • No specific remedies are for altitude here.
  • Focus on general health and hydration.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness happens on boat tours.
  • Consider medication if you are prone to seasickness.
  • Stay hydrated during boat trips.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Underwater Fun

Gear for exploring the underwater world. Rent or bring your own.

  • Gear for rent locally.
  • Bring your own Snorkel set for fit and hygiene.
  • Mask, snorkel, fins are the core items.
  • Waterproof phone pouch or camera a good idea.

Sporting Gear

Equipment for popular local sports.

  • Fishing: Charters give equipment.
  • Bring preferred rods or lures if you like.
  • Golf: Clubs rent at courses.
  • Personal clubs an option for avid golfers.

Hiking & Cycling

Outfit yourself for land adventures.

  • Comfortable Hiking shoes.
  • Light, moisture-wicking clothes.
  • Bike rentals available along Ciclovía.
  • Helmet for cycling safety.

Rent vs. Bring

Rent These

  • Surfboards, SUP, jet skis.
  • Most fishing equipment.
  • Golf clubs.
  • Saves luggage space.

Bring These

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

Small items that make a big difference.

Essentials List

Sustainable Choices

Do your part for eco-friendly travel.

Eco-Friendly Pack

Sustainable Travel

Water Bottle

Cut plastic waste.

Shopping Bag

For markets.

Utensil Set

Street food.

Reef Sunscreen

Protect marine life.

Local Specifics

Ixtapa Must-Haves

Zihuatanejo Experience

  • Small notebook and pen.
  • Small flashlight for evenings in less lit areas.
  • Small bills for local markets.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to keep space and lessen wrinkles. Use packing cubes for more orderly packing.

Spread heavy items evenly in your luggage. Wear your heaviest shoes on travel days.