Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary. You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable field clothes are suitable for most activities and visits. You may also wish to bring slightly nicer, but still casual, outfits for your time in Mexico City.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Average temperatures in Mexico City in March range from the mid 40°F to the high 70°F. At Teotihuacán, it will likely be 80 to 90°F and in full sun, so versatility is key.

• A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts suitable for layering
• A combination of light- and medium-weight long pants (such as jeans, khakis, or field pants)
• Undergarments
• Sleepwear
• Jacket or other outerwear
• Socks – Bring extra pairs.
• Shoes – You'll likely want a pair of comfortable, well-worn, closed-toe shoes with rubber soles suitable for walking on cobblestone streets, gravel paths, and uneven surfaces. In addition, you may want a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals.
• Rain gear – Rain is infrequent, but a lightweight rain jacket or hooded poncho comes in handy should a slight drizzle or snow flurry occur. It also makes a great layer for added warmth.
• Cap or hat
• Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter – These can be helpful on dusty trails.

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

• Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – All hotels provide shampoo and soap, but you may wish to bring your own from home if you prefer. If possible, avoid strong fragrances in consideration of your fellow travelers.
• Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – These items are not always standard in hotels outside the US, so you may wish to bring them with you.
• Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Razor
• Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
• Personal hygiene products
• Insect repellent with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – There is a chance for sunburn when at Teotihuacán, where temperatures may be as high as 80 to 90 °F.
• A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed, as it may not be available at all stops

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever (may be helpful for altitude headaches), motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

• Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
• Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
• Money – ATM/credit card and cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
• Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
• Sunglasses with strap
• Small day pack for carrying water, camera gear, rain gear, etc.
• Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
• A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
• Binoculars with lens cleaner
• Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards – Be prepared to pay an extra park fee for use of a video camera (anything that looks professional-level) while in the parks.
• Reusable water bottle – Plan to buy bottled water, but you may wish to bring an extra container for refilling
• Non-perishable snacks
• Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage
• Notepad or travel journal and pen
• Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
• Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
• Money belt
• Chargers for electronics