Dress appropriately for your travels in Mexico - here's what to wear (2024)

Part of planning your trip to Mexico will involve deciding what you need to pack and take with you. You want to be comfortable, look stylish and appropriate for the places you're visiting. A bit of thought beforehand about what clothing will be most appropriate for the destination, time of year, and activities you have planned will allow you to enjoy your trip without the discomfort of being inappropriately attired.

Mexicans may dress more formally, and in some cases, more modestly than people north of the border may be accustomed. Of course, you're free to dress as you wish, but if you choose to dress very differently from the majority of local people you may be singling yourself out as a tourist, and worse, you may be seen as being disrespectful to the host country.

Here are a few general guidelines about what to wear depending on your destination, the type of activities you plan to participate in, and the weather.

Depending on Your Destination

Inland, for example in Mexico City and in Mexico's colonial cities, people generally dress more modestly than they do along the coast and in beach destinations. Although it's changing a bit over time, women in Mexico's interior destinations seldom wear shorts, and men almost never do. Women who don't want to attract excessive attention from men would be well advised to avoid short skirts and shorts and revealing clothes in general, but especially when traveling alone. Lightweight pants and long skirts are good options, as are blouses and tops that cover your cleavage. Sleeveless tops are acceptable, tank tops less so.

For coastal cities and towns, casual clothes and shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable on the street. If you're going to the beach or pool, take something to cover up on your way there and back—wearing swimsuits away from the beach or pool is generally considered inappropriate.A traditional shawl, called a rebozo, is a practical and stylish item of clothing that comes in handy in a variety of situations. If you don't have one to bring with you, it's something you can easily purchase in Mexico.

Evenings Out

For restaurants or nightclubs, it is customary to dress a bit more formally. Some restaurants require men to wear long pants and closed shoes. The old adage "Men, wear pants. Women, look beautiful," still applies in some establishments. For men, guayaberas are generally a good option—you'll be cool and will be dressed appropriately even for formal occasions.

Depending on Your Activities

If you're visiting churches, short shorts, short skirts, and tank tops are frowned on, but longer, Bermuda type shorts and t-shirts are generally fine.

For visiting archaeological sites, comfort is key. Wear comfortable walking shoes. A closed toe is best for climbing pyramids and walking on sometimes treacherous surfaces. Although the weather may be hot, it's best to cover up to avoid excessive sun exposure and mosquito bites.

When it comes to adventure activities, of course it will depend on the type of adventure you have planned.For zip-lining, wear shoes that attach firmly to your feet so you don't risk losing them. Shorts that are long enough so that the harness does not chafe your skin is a good idea.If you have a white water raftingadventure planned,water shoes are the best, and quick drying clothes. You may want to wear a bathing suit under your clothes.

Check the Weather

A lot of people assume that the weather in Mexico is always hot, but that's not the case. Be sure to check the forecast for your destination before you leave so that you will be well prepared with a sweater or jacket and/or a raincoat if necessary. In southern Mexico, rainy season usually falls from spring through early fall.High altitude destinations such as Mexico City, Toluca and San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas can get quite cold, especially in the winter months, so be sure to pack extra layers.

In general you can't go wrong if you bring light layers in natural fabrics(cotton, silk or linen) that are comfortable, cover you appropriately and are breatheable in case it's hot or humid. These types of fabrics also wash and dry easily, so you don't have to bring too many pieces and can mix and match. If you need to buy some extra clothing, you can find department stores or other shopping opportunities in any larger town or city.

Dress appropriately for your travels in Mexico - here's what to wear (2024)

FAQs

What type of clothes do you wear in Mexico? ›

Mexican style includes everything from traditional dresses to fashionable jeans and stylish tops. Most Mexicans dress more modestly, including wearing jeans and pants even in the warmest months. Packing dresses, lightweight long pants, and capris will help you blend in more, especially outside of coastal areas.

What to wear in Mexico and not look like a tourist? ›

A lightweight linen long sleeve shirt is my favorite thing to protect my skin from the sun. Cool and Loose Items: Think of a cotton dress or a pair of lightweight linen pants. These breathable materials are perfect for hot and humid weather at the beach. You can dress them up or down depending on the situation.

What to wear on a flight to Mexico? ›

Wear lots of layers!!!

I like to wear clothes with lots of layers so that I can easily adjust what I'm wearing if it's hot or cold. I usually wear both a scarf and jacket to the airport with a light T-shirt or dress underneath, so that I can take both of them off once I arrive.

What is the best thing to wear when traveling? ›

Generally soft, stretchy, and loose-fitting clothing is best for travel, as it'll keep you comfy and won't feel restrictive on long flights or drives.

Does Mexico have a dress code? ›

Though Mexico is a country where the citizens dress in formal and modest clothes, depending on the situation, you should know how to fit in. You can definitely dress as you want, but knowing the way the locals dress is a way of getting treated like a local, instead of a tourist.

Should I dress modestly in Mexico? ›

For example, in Mexico City and other colonial cities away from the coasts, women and men dress very modestly. For example, unless the temperatures are hot, only a few people can be seen wearing shorts in these cities. You may want to avoid wearing shorts in these places, and cleavage revealing tops or tank tops.

How to not stand out in Mexico? ›

Leave your bling at home. Avoid bringing flashy watches and jewelry to Mexico. If you wear them, you'll risk standing out and becoming a target for pickpockets and scammers.

How not to dress like a tourist? ›

Watch What You Wear

Avoid bright-colored clothes and wear muted colors instead. Ditch the white sneakers, bulky cargo shorts, and yoga pants, and opt for comfortable shoes and casual pants like khakis. Forget the fanny pack and hulking backpacks. Carry only what you need.

How to dress like a Mexican? ›

Best Mexican Outfit Ideas
  1. Traditional Dress. If you're looking for the perfect traditional outfit to wear to a Mexican-themed party, look no further than the traditional dress. ...
  2. Floral Top. ...
  3. Romper or a Jumpsuit. ...
  4. Wear a Skirt. ...
  5. Add a Sombrero. ...
  6. A Colorful Poncho. ...
  7. Celebration Accessories. ...
  8. Mexican Tassels.
Feb 28, 2023

What can you not bring back from Mexico on a plane? ›

Examples of prohibited items are dangerous toys, cars that don't protect their occupants in a crash, bush meat, or illegal substances like absinthe and Rohypnol. Restricted means that special licenses or permits are required from a federal agency before the item is allowed to enter the United States.

How to pack for 7 days in Mexico? ›

A Mexico packing list for every season
  1. Lightweight clothing, such as T-shirts, shorts and sundresses.
  2. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring.
  3. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat for sun protection.
  4. Swimwear for beach visits or lounging around the hotel pool.
Aug 28, 2023

Does Mexico check your bags? ›

Gather all your luggage and proceed to customs. If you get stopped for inspection you will be asked to open your luggage and the inspector will search through it. Remember they are only looking for illegal items. This is a routine inspection and it should take no more than 10 minutes.

What pants to wear on a plane? ›

No one wants to sit through a seven-hour flight in constricting jeans or too-tight shoes — soft, stretchy, and stylish clothing is the way to go. Athleisure sets, loose-fitting pants and tops, and slip-on shoes all make for comfy and convenient plane outfits.

What is the most comfortable outfit to wear on a plane? ›

Pieces made of finely woven knits that feel as soft as a cloud, compression fabrics that prevent swelling, and buttery cashmere travel blankets that you can cocoon yourself in are among the ones we recommend for overnight or otherwise lengthy flights.

Why wear a sweatshirt on a plane? ›

“A lot of people dress for the place that they're going, not considering that the plane is also going to be a place they'll be,” she says. “Planes are cold, so I recommend layering up.” If you want to be comfortable mid-flight, trade in that slip dress for a sweatshirt.

Do you wear jeans in Mexico? ›

People in Mexico City do not wear shorts. Dress is casual, jeans and sport shirts for men, slacks and blouses or dresses for women.

What to wear in Mexico to not stand out? ›

Dresses and skirts are great options for Mexico City as long as they aren't too short or revealing. Women in Mexico are more conservative when it comes to showing their legs so I wouldn't recommend anything more than a couple of inches above the knee.

Do I need a sweatshirt in Mexico? ›

If you're in Mexico City, Puebla, or any other high-altitude areas, you'll be okay during the day with a light sweater, jeans, or even shorts, but will most likely need something warmer for the evenings as it can get cold.

What is a traditional Mexican shirt called? ›

What is a Guayabera? Men wearing guayaberas are a familiar sight in Latin America and the Caribbean. A traditional piece of menswear, the shirt is distinguished by its four front pockets and two vertical stripes of pleating and/or embroidery.

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