MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Clothing Recommendations

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or quick-dry synthetics are good year-round. These materials circulate air and manage moisture effectively.

Seasonal & Activity Attire

  • Daytime: Shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, Swimwear, and cover-ups. Loose-fitting clothes support coolness.
  • Evenings: A light long-sleeved shirt or thin jacket for cooler air and mosquito deterring.
  • Rainy Season (May-Oct): A Lightweight rain jacket or compact Poncho for sudden, heavy showers.

Specialized Attire

Holbox is a casual beach destination. There are no strict cultural dress codes for tourists beyond common courtesy. Cover up swimwear when walking through the village or dining.

Activity Specifics

  • Swimming/Snorkeling: Swimsuits. A rash guard with UPF 50+ protection for excellent Sun protection and minor irritations.
  • Walking/Cycling: Comfortable shorts, t-shirts, light tops for sandy roads.
  • Evening: Casual dresses, shorts, or light pants. The vibe remains relaxed.

Footwear Focus

Daily Comfort

Sandals or flip-flops are necessary for daily wear, beach outings, and casual walking. Closed-toe shoes quickly fill with sand.

Open-toe is best for sandy paths.

Water Activities

Water shoes are useful for rocky beach areas, protection from shells or stones, and for cenotes. Teva Water Sandals or similar styles grip well and drain water.

Protects from sharp objects.

Optional Support

While not strictly necessary due to sandy terrain, Comfortable walking shoes (Sneakers) are an option for longer strolls if you prefer support. Prepare for sand inside them.

Good for mainland excursions.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and secure is a core part of stress-free travel. Be sure to have both original and copies of all important papers.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Original valid passport, printout of FMM (Migration Form), and any necessary visa documentation.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Copy of policy details, emergency contact numbers, policy number, and coverage summary.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Not for Holbox, but for mainland car rentals, an IDP along with your domestic license is recommended.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Copies of vaccination record and doctor's letters for prescription medications.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Copies of flight itineraries, hotel bookings, ferry tickets, and tour confirmations. Store digitally and physically.
  • Emergency Contact Information: List of family members, bank's international fraud line, and your country's embassy or consulate in Mexico. Share this with a trusted person at home.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): Rarely for Holbox tours, but useful on the mainland.
  • Security Reminders: Keep original documents separate from copies. Use a secure bag or money belt for valuables.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Thoughtful packing of electronics supports you in staying connected, capturing memories, and powering devices efficiently while traveling.

Adapters & SIMs

  • Power Adapter & Voltage: Mexico uses Type A/B outlets (same as US/Canada), 127V/60Hz. Most modern electronics are dual voltage. A Voltage converter is rarely needed. A Universal travel adapter is useful for global travel.
  • Mobile Phone & SIM Cards: Unlocked GSM phones generally work. Local SIMs from Telcel or Movistar are cheaper for data. Purchase on mainland for easier activation.
  • Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing. For eSIMs, check Airalo.

Capture & Organize

Ensure you have the right tools to capture and protect your memories.

Cameras & Backup

Apps for Travel

Navigation

Download offline Google Maps for Holbox before your trip. This enables navigation without an internet connection.

Communication

WhatsApp is widely used in Mexico for communication with locals, tour operators, and hotels.

Translation & Currency

Download the offline Spanish pack for Google Translate. A Currency converter app helps with prices.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Meds

A well-stocked personal health and wellness kit prepares you for common travel ailments and provides access to specific items you might need.

Kit Contents

Protection & Hygiene

Shield yourself from the elements and maintain comfort with personal care items.

Sun, Bugs & Water

  • Insect Repellent: Repel 100 Insect Repellent or products with DEET/picaridin for effective protection, particularly in evenings.
  • Sun Protection: High-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen (30+). Choose Reef-safe sunscreen. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses offer valuable protection.
  • Water Purification (optional): A LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle provides an extra safety layer and plastic waste minimization.

Personal Care

Hygiene Essentials

  • While most standard toiletries are available, specific brands or specialty items might be difficult to find.
  • Bring enough of your preferred shampoo, conditioner, soap, body lotion.
  • Include feminine hygiene products for the duration of your trip.

Comfort Enhancers

  • Consider packing a small, travel-size dry shampoo or body wipes for quick refreshes.
  • For coffee lovers, instant coffee packs can provide a familiar morning ritual if your accommodation lacks amenities.
  • A few pairs of moisture-wicking socks for comfort, even if mostly wearing sandals.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkel Gear

If you prefer using your own equipment, bring a Full-face snorkel mask or a traditional Mask and snorkel set. Tour operators usually provide basic gear, but personal equipment offers a better fit and hygiene.

  • Provided on tours but personal gear is more comfortable.
  • Consider quality and fit for longer excursions.
  • Easy to pack if full-face mask is collapsible.

Kayaking/Paddleboarding

A Dry bag is useful for keeping valuables (phone, camera, wallet) safe and dry while on the water. A small waterproof dry bag proves practical for these excursions, protecting electronics from splashes.

  • Protects electronics and documents.
  • Available in various sizes.
  • Essential for mangrove tours.

Specialty Items

Binoculars are ideal for birdwatching, observing flamingos at Punta Mosquito or migratory birds. For bioluminescence photography, a Portable tripod is helpful for long exposure shots.

  • Enhances wildlife viewing.
  • Stability for night photography.
  • Compact designs available.

Rent vs. Bring

Good to Rent Locally

  • Snorkel Gear: Generally available for rent or included in tour prices. Renting minimizes luggage.
  • Bicycles: Widely available for rent throughout the village from numerous shops and hotels.
  • Golf Carts: Widely available for rent from various shops, for independent island exploration.

Consider Bringing

  • Personal Snorkel Gear: If you prioritize fit, comfort, or hygiene over convenience of renting.
  • Specialized Camera Gear: For unique photography needs (e.g., specific lenses, underwater housing).
  • Unique Medications: Any specific prescription or over-the-counter drugs not readily available in Mexico.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These additional items contribute to comfort, security, and convenience, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. They address practical needs often overlooked.

Travel Comfort

Island Specifics

Certain items are especially useful for the unique conditions and activities on Isla Holbox.

Must-Haves for Holbox

  • A Quick-dry towel or Microfiber travel towel is practical, as everything can stay damp in the island's humidity.
  • A small Backpack or Daypack is ideal for day trips, carrying water, sunscreen, a towel, and other essentials.
  • A Headlamp is advisable if cycling at night, as many rental bicycles lack good lighting.
  • Specific prescription medications, high-quality sunscreens (especially reef-safe varieties), and particular brands of insect repellent might be harder or more expensive to find locally.

Sustainable Choices

Reusable Bottle

Minimize plastic waste on the island.

Reusable Bag

For groceries and souvenirs.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect marine ecosystems.

Reusable Utensils

Reduce single-use plastic from food stalls.

Holbox Specifics

Island Comfort

  • Quick-dry towel or microfiber travel towel for humid conditions.
  • Small backpack or daypack for daily explorations and tours.
  • Headlamp for night cycling or walking on dimly lit paths.

Local Purchase Considerations

  • High-quality sunscreens are harder to find and more expensive.
  • Specific insect repellent brands might not be available.
  • Any personal prescription medications for the entire trip duration.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles.

Use packing cubes to organize your belongings and compress items.