What to Pack for Mexico in March: Your All Region Guide

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By
Wesley
November 29, 2023
6 min read

Get ready for a dreamy adventure in Mexico this March! We’ve put together this guide to help you pack smartly to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. 

In this article we will consider the weather and activities in different regions to help you prepare for your trip. Let's guide you through the art of packing for Mexico in March.

Learn about the must-haves to keep cool during the days and warm in the evenings during your holiday by visiting our what to pack for Mexico in spring guide.

Coastal Regions

Cancun and Riviera Maya

When heading to Cancun and Riviera Maya in March, pack lightweight and breathable clothing like cotton or linen. Bring shorts, skirts, t-shirts, and dresses for beach strolls and exploring. Don't forget your swimwear, cover-ups, beach towel, and a beach bag with sunscreen, sunglasses, a book, and a hat for sun protection. 

Los Cabos and Baja California Sur

Pack light layers for your trip to Los Cabos and Baja California Sur. Bring thin sweaters or jackets that you can easily take off as the day warms up. Choose comfortable shoes like comfortable sneakers or hiking boots for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. 

Don't miss the opportunity to snorkel and explore the rich marine life. Remember to bring snorkeling gear and an underwater bag to keep your belongings safe and dry. 

Mexico City

Layered clothing due to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day

When packing for your trip to Mexico City in March, remember to prepare for unpredictable weather. Opt for a lightweight and breathable cotton t-shirt or blouse as your base layer. 

Pack long-sleeve shirts made of cotton or wool for sun protection and insulation. Include a few sweaters or cardigans that you can easily layer on and off depending on the temperature. This way, you'll be ready for any weather changes throughout the day.

Comfortable walking shoes 

Pack comfortable walking shoes like sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes with good support and cushioning. You'll be doing a lot of walking as you explore historical sites like Zocalo square, visit museums like Frida Kahlo Museum, and stroll through neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma. Consider bringing blister-preventing products like moleskin patches or gel inserts just in case. 

Umbrella or raincoat for occasional showers

In March, Mexico City goes from dry to rainy season, but there may still be occasional showers. To stay dry, pack an umbrella or a compact raincoat in your bag. This way, you can keep exploring attractions like Chapultepec Park and Coyoacán without getting drenched and make the most of your visit to this incredible city. Be prepared for rain, even if it's just a light drizzle. 

Guadalajara and Central States

Lightweight clothing for warm weather during the day

When you're packing for Guadalajara and other parts of Jalisco State in March, remember that it will be warm during the day. Choose lightweight and breathable clothes like cotton or linen shirts, shorts, skirts, or dresses. Don't forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun while visiting attractions like Teatro Degollado or exploring Mercado Libertad. Also, make sure to pack enough sunscreen with a high SPF to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays.

Warmer layers for cooler nights in higher elevations

When you visit Guadalajara and its nearby places in March, the days can be warm and pleasant. However, evenings, especially in higher areas, can get cooler. So, it's a good idea to pack some lightweight sweaters or jackets that you can easily wear when needed. This will keep you comfortable during your evening activities like strolling along Avenida Chapultepec or trying out delicious street food at Tlaquepaque's night markets.

Traditional Mexican attire like a sombrero or poncho to embrace local culture

Immerse yourself in Mexican culture during your visit to Guadalajara and Jalisco State by packing traditional attire like a sombrero (wide-brimmed hat) or a poncho. These items add flair to your outfits and help you connect with local customs and traditions. Embrace the vibrant Mexican heritage as you explore historic sites, enjoy music and dance performances, and savor the famous tequila. 

Hot Northern Mexico

Embracing the Desert Vibe

When traveling to northern Mexico, specifically Monterrey and Nuevo Leon State, pack for the hot desert climate in March. Wear lightweight, breathable clothes like modal, cotton or linen shirts and shorts.

 Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong sun. Bring sturdy hiking boots with good traction and ankle support for exploring national parks and trails. Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack for longer hikes. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and nature wonders with these essentials.

Chihuahua and Copper Canyon

Layers for Cool Nights Under Starry Skies

As you head north into Chihuahua and Copper Canyon, pack wisely for temperature changes between day and night. In March, it gets chilly after sunset, so bring warm sweaters or jackets. I would suggest a warm wool jumper for the night time.

Hiking enthusiasts will love the many trails and canyons to explore, so don't forget sturdy boots and a durable backpack. If you plan to camp, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking utensils. Also, consider binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. 

What to Pack for All Regions in Mexico

Insect Repellent to Ward Off Mosquitoes

Exploring the natural landscapes of Oaxaca and Chiapas may be beautiful, but it's also home to an array of pesky insects, including mosquitoes. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is essential not only for comfort but also to avoid potential health risks. 

Pack a reliable insect repellent with DEET or other recommended active ingredients. Apply it generously on exposed skin and clothing before heading out for your trekking adventures. Additionally, consider packing lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants made from breathable fabric as an extra barrier against these persistent insects.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated And Help The Environment

To stay hydrated during your summer trip to Mexico, bring a reusable water bottle with you. This way, you can fill it up throughout the day and avoid the need to buy disposable plastic bottles. If you're concerned about tap water quality, consider getting a water bottle with a built-in filter. It's a convenient and eco-friendly way to ensure you have access to clean drinking water wherever you go.

Electronics

Adapters for Charging Devices

When planning a trip to Mexico, it's important to note that the country uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets. These outlets are different from the ones used in other parts of the world, so it's important to bring the right adapter for your electronics. If you’re traveling from the US or Canada, then you won’t need these. Adapters can easily be purchased at most electronics stores or online retailers. Make sure to pack one for every device you plan on bringing, including your phone, tablet, and camera.

Portable Charger for Long Days

When you're exploring the stunning landscapes and engaging in outdoor activities in Mexico, it's important to be mindful of your phone's battery life. With all the photo-taking, navigation, and capturing memories, your phone can easily run out of power. I always travel with a portable charger for those just-in-case moments.

Medications and Toiletries

Prescriptions and Medications

If you need to take any prescription medications, it is crucial that you bring enough for the entire trip. It's also a good idea to bring copies of the prescriptions in case you lose your medication or need to get a refill while on vacation. Remember, medication regulations can vary from country to country, so it's best to be prepared.

Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes

It’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being when in Mexico. One way to protect yourself from germs and bacteria is by having hand sanitizer or wet wipes easily accessible. Whether you're on public transportation or visiting crowded tourist attractions, these items will help you maintain proper hygiene and prevent illness.

Important Items

Access to Money

If you're traveling to Mexico, it's smart to carry some cash, especially in rural places. Some small shops and sellers might not take credit cards or foreign money, so having Mexican pesos will be useful. You can swap your cash at banks or currency exchange spots, but make sure to check and compare rates first for the best bang for your buck. If your bank offers ATM rebates, then I would just wait and get money from any of the main banking ATMs.

Travel Insurance Documents

When you're planning your trip to Mexico, it's highly recommended to have travel insurance for added peace of mind. While it's not mandatory, having coverage can protect you in case of unforeseen events like accidents, illnesses, or natural disasters. Make sure your travel insurance policy includes coverage for medical expenses and trip cancellations or interruptions. It's important to bring your policy documents with you and keep them in a safe place during your travels.

Waterproof Bag

Pack smart when planning a beach vacay in Mexico! Whether it's snorkeling or riding the waves in a water taxi, make sure you keep your precious possessions safe from the waters—a waterproof bag is indispensable. These are also handy during the rainy season when the skies open up.

You can find these handy bags online and in outdoor stores.. With one of these by your side, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your aquatic adventures without worrying about any unfortunate water-related disasters.

Conclusion

As you get ready for your trip to Mexico in March, remember that each region has its own unique climate and characteristics. Pack wisely by considering the weather and activities you'll be doing. 

For coastal areas like Cancun, bring lightweight clothes. If you're visiting places like Chihuahua's Copper Canyon, pack warm layers for cooler nights. Don't forget durable footwear, hydration essentials, and any hiking gear you'll need.

Remember to prioritize protection against mosquitoes with reliable insect repellent, stay hydrated and eco-conscious with a reusable water bottle, and ensure your electronics are charged with the right adapters and a portable charger. Additionally, don't forget essential medications, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes for maintaining hygiene, as well as having access to local currency and travel insurance for peace of mind. 

With these planning tips, you'll have an amazing time exploring Mexico's diverse landscapes and enjoying unforgettable experiences. Get ready for sunny beach days and/or thrilling canyon hikes—Mexico is waiting for you!

If are looking to arrive a month before, make sure to read up on our article what to pack for February. If you want to compare to the following month, check out our guide on what to pack for Mexico in April.

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Written by:

Wesley
I consider myself a world-travelling nomad and a foodie at heart. Born in Germany and raised in East Tennessee, my passion for exploration has taken me all over the planet - exploring unfamiliar lands and cultures is what truly inspires my soul!
Sidra
I live outside of Doha and consider myself an inside expert on all things Qatar. I love exploring all the country has to offer and look forward to giving you valuable insights of where I call home!
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