MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Progreso

What to Pack for Progreso

Progreso Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico Travel Guide

Seasonal Clothing Recommendations

Prioritize lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics. These materials handle heat and humidity well.

Dry Season November to May

  • Daytime: Shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, skirts, Swimsuits/board shorts.
  • Evenings (Dec-Feb): Light jacket, cardigan, or long-sleeved shirt for comfort.
  • The weather is comfortable for beach time and outdoor activities.

Wet Season & Cultural Dress

Progreso is a relaxed beach town, and its dress code reflects this casual atmosphere. General respect for local culture is always valued.

Wet Season June to October

Footwear Recommendations

Everyday / Sightseeing

Comfortable sandals, flip-flops, or breathable Sneakers are ideal for walking around town and the Malecón.

Comfort for exploring.

Beach / Water Activities

Flip-flops are essential for the beach. Water shoes are useful for cenotes and rocky areas, giving grip and protection.

Protection and grip.

Ruins / Hiking

Closed-toe walking shoes or Light hiking shoes with good grip are needed for exploring archaeological sites. Paths can be uneven, rocky, or slippery.

Support for uneven terrain.

Essential Documents

Useful Travel Documents

Keep your documents organized and secure. Both physical and digital copies are helpful.

  • Valid Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure.
  • Visa Documentation: Bring all related paperwork if your nationality needs a visa.
  • Electronic FMM (e-FMM) or Passport Stamp: Keep any documentation immigration provided upon entry.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Carry physical and digital copies of policy details and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Recommended if renting a car, for translation of your license.
  • Vaccination Records & Health Documents: Proof of recommended vaccinations and doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of accommodation, flights, car rentals, and tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Physical list for family, embassy/consulate, and local services.

Technology & Electronics

Power and Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right tech.

Power Adapter & Voltage

  • Voltage: Mexico uses 127V, 60Hz (same as US/Canada).
  • Plug Type: Type A (two flat pins) and Type B (two flat pins with round grounding pin).
  • Adapter: From outside North America, bring a Universal travel adapter. No Voltage converter for dual voltage devices.

Mobile & Photography Gear

Capture moments and stay connected with appropriate devices.

Mobile Phone & Camera

Digital Safety & Useful Apps

Recommended Apps

Google Maps/Waze for navigation (download offline maps). Google Translate/ITranslate for translation. Uber/Didi for ride-sharing. WhatsApp for local communication. Banking apps for accounts. Booking.com/Airbnb for lodging.

Backup Solutions

Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) for photos and scanned documents. Physical backup with an External hard drive or USB stick if carrying a laptop.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are options.

Health & Wellness Items

Travel First Aid Kit

A well-stocked health kit manages minor issues effectively.

Essential Contents

Medications and Hydration

Ensure your personal health needs are met with these items.

Personal Health Essentials

  • Prescription medications in original containers with doctor's note.
  • Over-the-counter for cold/flu, motion sickness, eye drops.
  • Rehydration salts or Electrolyte packets for hydration.

Sun & Insect Protection

Insect Repellent

Sun Protection

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling / Swimming

Gear for comfortable and hygienic water experiences.

Hiking / Exploring Ruins

Essentials for comfortable exploration of varied terrain.

Rent vs. Bring Items

Consider renting certain items based on quality and availability.

  • Snorkel Gear: Available for rent, but personal gear is often better.
  • Bicycles: Available for rent along the Malecón for casual rides.
  • Cars: Renting a car at Mérida Airport is common. Insurance requirements apply.
  • No uniquely specific specialty items for Progreso.

Security & Reusable Items

Security Essentials

Reusable Items

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Region-Specific Essentials

Small items that contribute to comfort and security.

Progreso-Specific Considerations

  • Sun protection remains most important due to the strong Yucatán sun.
  • This includes sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light cover-ups.
  • Cash in small denominations (MXN 20, 50, 100 notes) is useful for small vendors, street food, and tips.
  • Many places do not accept large bills for small purchases.

Items Hard to Find Locally

Plan ahead for specific needs that might be difficult or expensive to purchase locally.

Traveler's Niche Needs

  • Specific prescription medications or specialized medical supplies. Ensure sufficient supply.
  • High-quality brand-name outdoor gear (though Decathlon stores are in Mérida for some items).
  • Your specific brand of insect repellent or sunscreen, if allergies or strong preferences exist.
  • High-quality contact lens solution or specific toiletries.

General Useful Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Stays hydrated, cuts plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For market and grocery purchases.

Reusable Utensils

A hygienic option for street food.

Offline Maps

For navigation without data.

Clothing & Gear Resources

Online Retailers

  • Amazon: Main consumer retail platform.
  • Nordace: Modern travel bag and accessory store.
  • B&H Photo: Camera and electronics retailer.

VPN Services

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light for ease of movement. Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization.

Consider a capsule wardrobe to mix and match outfits. Always pack essentials in your carry-on bag.