There are some opportunistic posts out there of things that you should pack for Mexico City. Let me tell you, don’t trust those greedy bloggers. As a local, I’m going to expose those posts and tell you what you should really pack for.
If you’re in a rush, here is a quick list of essentials:
- Portable charger (don’t run out of battery.)
- Sunblock (the sun can be intense.)
- Travel pouch with passport holder. (To keep your documents safe.)
- Filtered water bottle (In case you don’t want to buy bottled water.)
- Ear plugs (Mexico City can be very noisy. Dogs barking at night, parties and loud vehicles can keep you awake at night).
What to pack for Mexico City:
Mexico City is not some kind of lost city in the middle of nowhere, quite the opposite. It’s a huge city, (and it would be impossible to see everything it has to offer in one day). To clarify, it’s the largest city in terms of population in North America, and there are even more people than in New York City! So, it’s no wonder that there’s a considerable amount of convenience stores spread around the city. Therefore, you don’t really need to overly worry about what you pack. In case you forget something, you can always go to the nearest store.
Anyway, for your own amusement, here’s our debunk list of essentials according to other web pages.
Gatorade chews:
According to an article, they’re necessary because Mexico’s high altitude might make you feel dizzy. Well, in the case that you aren’t used to high altitudes and feel underpowered, you don’t need to pack Gatorade chews. Just drink lots of water and watch your alcohol intake. You may want to get yourself a bottle of Gatorade.
Electrolytes:
Granted, you might need them. But what you don’t need is to take up extra space in your luggage with bottles. In Mexico City, you can find electrolytes in any convenience store, and there are plenty of brands to choose from. Electrolit is a good one.
Lipstick-Size portable charger:
Let’s not be so specific. Any portable charger will do! Chargers are essential for any trip, not just for Mexico City, though.
Windproof Umbrella:
This one is expendable. The truth is that it doesn’t rain that often in Mexico City. Only consider bringing one in the summer. And only if it’s small enough to fit in a backpack.
Packing Cubes:
Is Mexico City such a mess that you need your stuff to be extra neat so that when you get back to your hotel you feel at peace? Just kidding. Packing cubes might come in handy, but not just for when you’re visiting Mexico City.
Filtered water bottle:
It’s said that it isn’t safe to drink tap water in Mexico City. Nothing has ever happened to me, nor have I heard it’s made somebody sick. However, I have to agree with what other blogs say. Drink bottled water. Just in case. A filtered water bottle might actually be a good idea to protect the environment.
Cooling Towel:
Common! Mexico City can get hot at midday, but do you really want to be carrying around so many things? This is not necessary. Man up! or Girl up!
Deodorant Wipes for Stinky Sweat:
Are those bloggers for real?! Don’t waste your money. Mexico City is not going to make your sweat stinkier. Just make sure to wear deodorant, or if you sweat a lot, bring your deodorant around. And, by the end of the day, please take a shower. Yes, there’s water in hotels, or wherever you’re staying. Case in point: you don’t need to clutter your bag with deodorant wipes.
Protein bars:
You’re visiting Mexico City, not a gym. Nuff said.
Virtual Private Network (VPN):
Not necessary! Don’t let them scare you. If you’re afraid someone might steal your information, this is what you can do: don’t join random wifi networks. Even in the case, you had to, it’d be very rare if someone stole your information.
A local sim card (Telcel, AT&T, etc.):
I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re staying for a long period. Otherwise, while it might sound like a good idea, it will only be a hassle. You’d have to change your WhatsApp number and all your contacts would get a notification. Besides, there’s free internet almost anywhere you see these signs:
Mexico City Power Adapter:
First of all, there’s not such a thing. Any international power adapter will do. You won’t need a power adapter if you come from North and Central America, China, and Japan.
Hanging toiletry kit:
Don’t waste bag space. Chances are you’ll find somewhere you can hang your towels.
Spanish Phrasebook:
Again, don’t waste space carrying around a long book. Just print the pages that you think are useful to you or use google translate.
Afterthoughts:
Of course, this is only my opinion. You might find that you need all of the items I listed here, and that’s ok. After all, what to pack for Mexico City is up to you. All I’m saying is that they’re not first-necessity items. Let us know if there’s anything in this list you think is useful or if there are any other useless items we’re missing.
You can also check out this guide on what to wear in Mexico City here.
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