Mexico Packing

Pack lightly: Lay out only what you think you absolutely need, then take half the clothes and twice the money. The Travelite FAQ (www.travelite.org) is a good resource for tips on traveling light. The online Universal Packing List (http://upl.codeq.info) will generate a customized list of suggested items based on your trip length, the expected climate, your planned activities, and other factors. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, also consult The Great Outdoors.

• Luggage: If you plan to cover most of your itinerary by foot, a sturdy frame backpack is unbeatable. (For the basics on buying a pack,) Toting a suitcase or trunk is fine if you plan to live in one or two cities and explore from there, but not a great idea if you plan to move around frequently. In addition to your main piece of luggage, a daypack (a small backpack or courier bag) is useful.
• Clothing: No matter when you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to bring a warm jacket or wool sweater, a rain jacket (Gore-Tex® is both waterproof and breathable), sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and thick socks. Flip-flops or waterproof sandals are must-haves for grubby hostel showers, and extra socks are always a good idea. You may also want one outfit for going out, and maybe a nicer pair of shoes. If you plan to visit religious or cultural sites, remember that you will need modest and respectful dress. Mexican culture values neat and clean appearances, and visitors are recommended to do likewise, especially when dealing with officials at border crossings or military roadblocks. Shorts are rarely worn outside of beach towns and touristy ruins, and bathing suits are only appropriate on the beach.
• Sleepsack: Some hostels require that you either provide your own linen or rent sheets from them. Save cash by making your own sleepsack: fold a full-size sheet in half the long way, then sew it closed along the long side and one of the short sides.
• Converters and Adapters: In Mexico, electricity is 127 volts AC. 220/240V electrical appliances won’t work with a 120/127V current, which will work for any 120V North American appliance; additionally, the electrical outlets in Mexico are shaped the same as those in Canada and the US. Visitors from the UK, Australia and New Zealand should buy an adapter (which changes the shape of the plug; US$5) and a converter (which changes the voltage; US$10-30). Don’t make the mistake of using only an adapter (unless appliance instructions explicitly state otherwise). Australians and New Zealanders (who use 230V at home) will need a converter and a set of adapters to use anything electrical. For more on all things adaptable, check out http://kropla.com/electric.htm.
• Toiletries: Condoms, deodorant, razors, tampons, and toothbrushes are often available, but it may be difficult to find your preferred brand; bring extras. Contact lenses are likely to be expensive and difficult to find, so bring enough extra pairs and solution for your entire trip. Also bring your glasses and a copy of your prescription in case you need emergency replacements. If you use heat-disinfection, either switch temporarily to a chemical disinfection system (check first to make sure it’s safe with your brand of lenses), or buy a 120/127V converter.
• First-Aid Kit: For a basic first-aid kit, pack bandages, a pain reliever, antibiotic cream, a thermometer, a multifunction pocketknife, tweezers, moleskin, decongestant, motion-sickness remedy, diarrhea or upset-stomach medication (Pepto Bismol® or Imodium®), an antihistamine, sunscreen, insect repellent, burn ointment, an Epipen® for severe allergies, and a syringe for emergencies (get an explanatory letter from your doctor).
• Film: Film and developing in Mexico are expensive, so consider bringing along enough film for your entire trip and developing it at home. If you don’t want to bother with film, consider using a digital camera. Although it requires a steep initial investment, a digital camera means you never have to buy film again. Just be sure to bring along a large enough memory card and extra (or rechargeable) batteries. For more info on digital cameras, visit www.shortcourses.com/choosing/contents.htm. Less serious photographers may want to bring a disposable camera or two. Despite disclaimers, airport security X-rays can fog film, so buy a lead-lined pouch at a camera store or ask security to hand-inspect it. Always pack film in your carry-on luggage, since higher-intensity X-rays are used on checked luggage.
• Other Useful Items: For safety purposes, you should bring a money belt and a small padlock. Basic outdoors equipment (plastic water bottle, compass, waterproof matches, pocketknife, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat) may also prove useful. Quick repairs of torn garments can be done on the road with a needle and thread; also consider bringing electrical tape for patching tears. If you want to do laundry by hand, bring detergent, a small rubber ball to stop up the sink, and string for a makeshift clothes line. Other things you’re liable to forget include: an umbrella, sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, soap, food, shampoo, and other spillables), an alarm clock, safety pins, rubber bands, a flashlight, earplugs, garbage bags, and a small calculator. A cell phone can be a lifesaver (literally) on the road; see for information on acquiring one that will work in Mexico.
• Important Documents: Don’t forget your passport, traveler’s checks, ATM and/or credit cards, adequate ID, and photocopies of all of the aforementioned in case these documents are lost or stolen . Also check that you have any of the following that might apply to you: a hosteling membership card ; driver’s license ; travel insurance forms ; ISIC , and bus pass .