The Yucatan peninsula of Mexico is a great place to visit, especially if you are looking for some winter sun. Here is my guide to packing light for a week in the Yucatan!
My trip was in early January, with temperatures ranging from 20-30C with a few rain showers. It gets warmer during the summer months, but not by too much. However, always remember to check the weather a day or two before you leave, in case of unexpected temperature swings.
Dresses:
I swear by dresses in hot weather, and this trip was no exception. Dresses are an outfit by themselves with no need to agonise about matching pieces. They are also easy to dress up or down with your choice of shoes and accessories.
- Maxi dresses are perfect for dressing up for dinner, and they also cover your legs to protect from mosquito bites!
- A little black dress is great for exploring ruins and also multi tasks as a cover up at the pool.
- Lightweight summer dresses are breezy and perfect for the more humid days.
Outfits:
Unless you just want to pack 7 dresses and be done with it (I don’t blame you), you probably also want a few tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.
- A statement maxi skirt is comfortable, protects your legs from sunburn and is stylish to boot.
- Pack 1-2 basic t-shirts that pair with your skirt. I like to pack an extra in case I get sweaty from exploring and want to change halfway through the day.
- A dressy top or two rolls up small and has you covered for a fancy dinner reservation.
Swimwear:
I like to stick to one piece bathing suits, but pack whatever you feel the most comfortable in. You probably won’t need more than 1 or 2 sets.
Shoes:
I took two pairs on this trip, and that worked out perfectly. It was a big moment for me, since I almost always end up with the wrong pair of shoes for the occasion. (I once tried to walk through a muddy forest in cheap ballet flats. Not a fun experience!)
- A pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes will serve you well, especially if you plan on exploring the ruins of Tulum, Coba or Chichen Itza.
- A pair of flip flops for the beach. I used these ones, which offered a little more support and protection than the usual flips flops and they were amazing!
Other essentials:
- A straw hat, since a sun-burnt nose isn’t a good look on anyone.
- Biodegradable sunscreen. Protect yourself and the fragile environment of corals.
- A crossbody bag that will hold all your essentials, but still leave your hands free.
- An underwater camera, because the waters in the cenotes are crystal clear and beautiful.
- Your passport, wallet and any essential medications. You didn’t think you could leave without double checking these, did you?
All of this, along with my laptop and camera stuff fit with room to spare in my brand new 36L cabin zero backpack!
Visiting Mexico for the first time? Check out my tips for first time visitors here.
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