Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
During the dry season (November to April), pack lightweight, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, or quick-drying synthetics are comfortable choices for daytime. Evenings can be cooler, especially from December to February, so a light sweater, cardigan, or a Light jacket is advisable.
The wet season (May to October) brings high heat and humidity with daily afternoon showers. Focus on very lightweight, loose-fitting, and quick-drying materials. A Compact umbrella or a Lightweight rain jacket is useful for sudden downpours.
Comfortable walking sandals, breathable Sneakers, or Walking shoes are necessary for Merida's uneven cobblestone streets. Break in new shoes before your trip.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals with good grip are highly recommended for rocky or slippery cenote entrances and wet surfaces. They protect your feet and offer traction.
Dressier sandals or closed-toe shoes are appropriate for dining at upscale venues or attending evening events. Choose options that maintain some comfort for city walks.
Maintaining proper documentation throughout your trip is critical for smooth travel.
Mexico uses 127V at 60Hz with Type A and B plugs. Travelers from the U.S. and Canada typically do not need a Power adapter. Others will need a Universal travel adapter. If your devices are not dual voltage (check for "100-240V"), a Voltage converter is necessary.
A Compact digital camera or a Smartphone with a good camera is usually sufficient. A Waterproof action camera (e.g., GoPro) is ideal for cenotes. Consider an extra battery. B&H Photo is a resource for camera gear.
Use cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox) to back up photos and digital documents. This protects memories and information if devices are lost or stolen.
Consider a small USB drive or external hard drive for additional backups, kept separate from your main devices.
Password-protect all devices. Enable remote wipe features for smartphones and tablets.
Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with clear labels. A copy of your prescription and, if possible, a doctor's note explaining your medical condition and the need for the medication, is valuable. Pack them in your carry-on bag.
A Quick-dry towel is useful. If you prefer your own, a compact Snorkeling mask and snorkel set provides convenience. Gear is typically available for rent at cenotes.
A Lightweight daypack is valuable for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, and your camera during excursions to archaeological sites or longer city walks.
A Spanish phrasebook or a reliable Translation app (like Google Translate with offline pack) is invaluable for communicating with locals and navigating daily interactions.
Sometimes the smallest items contribute most to travel comfort and security.
These items contribute to both your safety and environmental responsibility.
Reduce waste from disposable cups.
Solar chargers for smaller electronics.
Consider clothes made from sustainable materials.
Shampoo/conditioner bars to avoid plastic bottles.
Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize items and compress clothing. Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase for stability.
Wear your heaviest shoes and outerwear on travel days. Distribute weight evenly across your luggage to prevent imbalances. Keep liquids in clear, sealed bags to prevent leaks.
