What to pack for your trip to Mexico

Loose and breathable clothes.The climate in Mexico varies depending where you plan to go. Along the coast (on both sides of the country) it is hot and humid, almost unbearably so in the summer. At higher altitudes in the inland it is much more temperate and dry and it can reach freezing temperatures in the winter. Along the coasts, wear loose and breathable clothes that are comfortable in the humid heat and dry quickly when wet from either sweat or rain. Ideal are lightweight hoodies like the highly weatherproof Arc'teryx Squamish jacket, which is breathable, too – handy for when the weather clears up again.

Lightweight shoes for hiking. Pack a not-too-bulky pair of trail runners that can handle both streets and trails in dry and wet conditions, such as Saucony’s Peregrine 7 for men or women, that hold up well on wet and dry ground.

Mosquito and sun protection. Along with an effective bug repellent and great sunscreen, bring a wide-brimmed hat – when the sun is out along Mexico's coast it's strong year-round. Tilley's LTM6 AirFlo Hat is stylish enough to wear in the city, but also keep you cool and provide a convenient perch for a personal mosquito net, quite handy in the rainforest and jungle areas of Yucatan, like this one from Outdoor Research.

Don't forget your swimwear! You’ll also want a comfortable, easily adjusted pair of goggles, like Aqua Sphere goggles and a space-saving microfiber towel like the Sea to Summit DryLite towel. A pair of sandals, like Chaco's Z/VOLV or Ecotread, will give you better traction on wet surfaces than a standard pair of flip-flops.

Power adapter and charger. In Mexico the power sockets are of type A and B – if you travel from the U.S. then your plugs will fit. The standard voltage is 127 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. Type A and B power adapters are included in this world adapter set from Bestek, and a multiport charger, like Anker’s compact Powerport 4.

Packing cubes. They not only keep your suitcase organized, but also compact your clothes to save space. One of frequent travellers'favorites are Eagle Creek‘s Pack-It cubes, which come in different sizes so you can tailor your setup to your needs.

The Lonely Planet's Mexico guide provides great advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Gather all your senses and dive head-first into the ancient Maya world at exquisite Palenque; sample the freshest local specialities from street food stalls and innovative restaurants; and soak in the colours of Oaxaca City’s fiestas, architecture, and arts scene.

You'll also find lots of useful information on the Visit Mexico tourism website.