I don’t know about you, but packing for trips is always challenging. What comes down to it is getting the motivation to pack and making sure I bring everything I need. In preparation for my visit, I was determined to pack everything for Mexico City in a carry-on and small backpack.
That’s right, the over-packer that I am added another obstacle to my already complicated packing dilemma. With several epic fails to fit everything, I realized I needed to be efficient and create a packing list.
I’m happy to share that with some careful planning and embracing the buy it there (BIT) manta from Tim Ferris, the author of the 4-Hour Work Week, I packed like a rock star with a little bit of space to spare!
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pack for a week in Mexico City using a carry-on.
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Helpful tips: What to pack for one week in Mexico City using a carry-on
Before you start packing, below are a few essential tips to remember. The goal of packing in a carry-on is to fit everything in the most efficient way possible.
1. Check the weather forecast
Before you start packing, check the weather forecast for Mexico City during the dates of your trip. This will give you an idea of the temperatures and weather conditions you can expect during your stay. I visited Mexico City in September, and the temperature was in the mid-70s during the day, but temperatures dropped significantly at night.
2. Make a packing list
Create a packing list based on the activities you plan to do and the weather conditions. Consider what you’ll need for daytime sightseeing, evening outings, and specific events or occasions. Making packing lists beforehand has seriously become a game-changer for me!
3. Choose neutral colors
Opt for a color scheme that allows for easy mix-and-match. Neutral colors like black, white, gray, and earth tones work well for this purpose, as they can be combined in various ways to create different outfits.
4. Pack lightweight clothing
Since Mexico City tends to have mild weather in the fall, pack lightweight and breathable clothing items such as t-shirts, blouses, shorts, skirts, dresses, and light pants.
5. Bring layers
Bring a few lightweight layering pieces like cardigans, scarves, and a light jacket or hoodie for cooler evenings or unexpected temperature drops.
6. Toiletries and medications
Remember to pack your essential toiletries in travel-sized containers and any necessary makeup and prescriptions.
7. Travel documents
Keep all your essential travel documents, such as your passport, ID/driver’s license if you plan on renting a car, travel insurance, flight tickets, and hotel reservations, in a secure travel wallet or organizer.
8. Electronics
Bring only the necessary electronics, such as your smartphone, charger, camera, and other devices. If you plan on working remotely while you’re away, Solis is my go-to international mobile hotspot. I’ve used this hotspot in Europe and the Caribbean without any issues. I also recommend a SIM card to stay connected, as the connectivity in CDMX isn’t always reliable.
9. Roll your clothes
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimize wrinkles. This is a hack I’ve been using for years!
10. Use packing cubes
Invest in packing cubes or compression bags to help keep your items organized and maximize the available space in your carry-on.
11. Wear bulky items on the plane
If you plan to bring bulky items like a sweater, jacket, or shoes, wear them on the plane to save space in your luggage.
12. Leave room for souvenirs
If you plan to do some shopping or bring back souvenirs, leave some extra space in your carry-on for these items.
What to bring for a week in Mexico City in a carry-on: A packing list for women
Luggage
You’re better off using a carry-on with wheels and, for additional items, a small backpack for a week-long visit to Mexico City. I recently invested in a new backpack that I absolutely love and swear by! It’s the perfect addition to my luggage collection, not to mention I can fit my laptop, and it’s super helpful as an overnight/weekend bag.
Clothing
Mexico City in the fall is relatively warm during the day, mid-70s, and cooler at night, with temperatures ranging in the mid-60s. I mostly packed neutral colors and a few bright tops for a pop of color. I stick out most places I visit, but I am always intentional about not calling too much attention to myself by wearing flashy clothing.
So here’s the list:
- 2 pairs of pants: 1 pair of jeans and a pair of black jeans
- 2 pairs of shorts: 1 jean shorts and 1 cotton pair
- 2 dresses: 1 dressy and 1 casual
- 4 short-sleeve tops
- 1 long-sleeve jean shirt: It was perfect for layering during the day and night!
- 2 bathing suits: They came in handy for our day trip to Grutas Tolantongo and Bacalar
- 1 cover-up
- 1 pj set
- 1 set of packing cubes: Ever since I discovered packing cubes, packing has become oh-so-easy. I love the feeling of having my clothes organized! It makes finding things so much easier, too!
Shoes and accessories
- 1 pair of comfortable sneakers: You will do a lot of walking in Mexico City, so you want to make sure you’re comfortable!
- 2 pairs of sandals/flip-flops: 1 casual pair of sandals perfect for day and night time and 1 pair
- 1 pair of water shoes: These babies will come in handy if you plan to take a day trip to Grutas Tolantongo, Bacalar, or other parts of Mexico.
A few other accessories:
- 2 pairs of sunglasses: I’ve recently purchased these and absolutely love them!
- A Beach hat or baseball hat will come in handy if you plan to visit the Teotihuacán Pyramids or be out and about.
- Costume jewelry: My motto when it comes to jewelry is if I would be upset if it got lost or damaged, then leave it at home.
- 1 small purse or fanny pack: Big enough to carry my phone, portable charger, mints, lip gloss, sanitizer, and tissues. I bring tissues everywhere I go in case toilet paper isn’t available.
- Reusable bags: I’m a big fan of using more sustainable items to help reduce the usage of plastic bags. Our wildlife friends suffer the most from all the plastic we humans overuse.
- 1 washcloth: I always bring one in case none are available.
- 1 satin pillowcase: My tresses are still protected if my bonnet falls off at night.
- 1 satin bonnet
- 1 bandana: I use it mainly to pat my face whenever I feel sweaty.
- A waterproof phone case: This one is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or any water activity!
- Laundry bag: Plastic bags also work, but cloth bags are more sustainable.
- Diaper bag: This is a sustainable alternative to plastic bags and will come in handy for your wet clothing!
- 1 Towel: I usually leave my towels at home, but again, if you plan a day trip with water, this small, lightweight, fast-drying towel works great!
Miscellaneous Items
- First aid kit: Safety first!
- Sunscreen
- A key or combination lock: This will come in handy and is very necessary!
- Water bottle: I would avoid drinking tap water in Mexico City and stick to bottled water. Life Straw is a great usable bottle with a built-in filter that works perfectly!
Conclusion: Lady Chin’s Two Cents
Packing in a carry-on for a week-long visit to Mexico City is achievable and can save you time and stress lugging around items you’ll never wear. Also, if you do happen to forget something, don’t worry too much; you can always buy it there!
Have a great time in Mexico City!
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