Mexico City Packing List: What to Pack (Based on All Our Trips!)

Mexico City is one of my FAVORITE cities in the world, and I’ve been there at all different times of year. This typically-dry, always vibrant and moderately-temperatured city requires some thought in packing, but after looking at this list, I think you’ll be pretty relaxed and “tranquilo.”

With its hottest month in the spring, and its coolest months in winter, Mexico City never requires any EXTREME type of apparel or considerations, but you do want to be prepared specifically for when you go. For example, who would’ve ever known that May is the hottest month, that December can go into the 40s at night and that August has a 5pm rainstorm… every day?

With the packing checklist below, we’ve got you covered. Plus, use the trip selection tool right here to add how many days you’ll be staying.

For more on what to see and do in Mexico City, check out our Mexico City travel guide.

Essentials

Mexico City is an urban trip, so of course you can find lots of essentials in local stores. However, the items below are the ones you will want to have brought already from home, so don’t overlook this list and check your boxes twice!

Packing organization

I’m always glad I organized my packing well, and on a fast-paced trip like one to Mexico City where I want to do as much as I can with my vacation days, I’ve been satisfied if my clothes are separated into packing cubes by type, and my bags are ready to go.

Clothing for high altitude

Surprisingly for its high altitude, Mexico City enjoys moderate temperatures year-round. Don’t be fooled though, because the sun can be intense and it is totally possible to burn. You’ll want layers for temperature changes, protection from the sun if you plan to walk outside in Centro where there’s very few trees and a hat and sunblock for day trips out to Teotihuacan.

Shoes and footwear

Mexico City involves a lot of walking (we’ve sometimes averaged 7 miles a day!) on uneven streets, and some sidewalks that canonly be described as “surprising.” There are cobblestone paths in the city center, and while exploring neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma and Centro Histórico, strong shoes will do you well if you plan to explore completely by foot.

Toiletries and health

We’ve always been fond of the availability of pharmacies in Mexico City, and we’ve even shopped at them for last-minute needs. If you have brands or must-have things that come from home, pack those, especially if you have any cures for altitude sickenss.

Electronics and tech

Power up your tech, because there are so many photo opportunities in Mexico City, and we also find that Google Maps works REALLY well for navigating! If you plan to be out all day long, having backup battery power is an amazing idea.

Just be careful about using your phone, and always have an eye on your pockets so that you don’t have your expensive things grabbed from your bag. Use our Mexico City safety guide and read it before going.

Sightseeing essentials

For exploring Mexico City’s historic downtown, museums, markets and neighborhoods, have the below things at your fingertips, like we always do.

For us, sightseeing is all about experiencing, so grab a bag that keeps your things secure and keep an open mind for adventure. As a tip, remember that popular sites like Frida Kahlo Museum require advance ticket bookings. Check our CDMX city guide for all our info.

Safety essentials

Mexico City is generally safe when you take basic precautions. We have never experienced crime, but we know people who have, so we suggest keeping your valuables secure, especially in touristy areas, cafes with outdoor seating and on public transit like the Metro.

Day trip essentials

If you plan to take day trips to Teotihuacán, Xochimilco or other destinations outside the city like Pueba, have your daypack full of these recommendations so that you don’t have to go hunt down a store for something you missed!

Going out and nightlife

Mexico City has some totally casual bars, and some with dress codes or dress suggestions that really take things up a notch. Restaurants expect more than just casual sightseeing clothes at night, and lots of bars might even have suggested dress codes on holidays or popular weekends. Plan for smart casual at minimum, and some light layers for breezy rooftops at night, if you plan to go to any of the recommended bars in Mexico City.