I learned a lot about what to pack from my last trip to Mexico, when I stayed in Merida, San Miguel de Allende and Puerto Escondido for three months. Living and working remotely is challenging, and I didn’t come prepared with the right equipment. 

Upon returning home, however, I changed all that and made sure I was prepared for my next trip to Oaxaca. As a travel writer, I am always working, so having reliable technology and electronics is essential.  I’ve tried and tested all of the items listed below.  

(Please note: this article includes Amazon and other affiliate links, but we only ever recommend items we think are relevant for you and we’ve tried ourselves that will benefit you on your travels). If you decide to purchase an item through one of these links, we will receive a small commission that doesn’t add any cost to the purchase of an item.)

1. Carry-on suitcase and packing cubes

As I said in this New York Magazine article recently, I’m a fan of Gregory backpacks because they are adjustable to women’s bodies. In October, I used my 70 L Osprey backpack which held three months of clothes. But it was HEAVY – and I only wore a third of what I brought. 

I’d love to try a rolling version of this Away carry-on (dare I imagine a monogrammed version?) and Away’s packing cubes.  This brand has been highly recommended on our private Facebook group! 

I’m also using Apple’s RFI AirTag to keep track of my things if I am forced to check my bag. I put one in my computer case, a second on my daypack and a third in my carry on just in case I’m forced to check my bag. This device allows you to track missing items through the Find My iPhone app. 

3. Small Self-care kit

Travel can be stressful and having a few goodies to help me build some relaxation into my day makes for more pleasant travels.  

I love these travel-sized essential oils from Saje and am a fan of coconut lip balm which is a must-have in a hot, dry climate like Mexico. 

4. Protective sun gear and sunglasses

I am terrible at keeping hats. I love them, but have now lost three in a row, most recently on my trip to the Bahamas. Because I consider hats a packing must-have to prevent skin cancer, I look for hats that inexpensive, small, foldable and lightweight. I have my eye on a stylish bucket hat from Madewell and a pair of plastic Kate Spade square sunglasses that won’t get crushed in my bag.

In our recent article on eco-friendly packing, our expert Nora Livingstone recommended reef-safe sunscreen, so I’m keen to try Badger Balm, made by a woman-owned business. (Read more of Nora’s eco-friendly suggestions here.)

7. Undies + Pajamas

I am a huge fan of the Knix brand because of their body-positive approach.

I already have their pajamas, but have been wanting to try their multi-purpose period underwear, which looks comfortable, absorbent and leakproof. This also means I can reduce room by not packing as many tampons and pads. (I’m also keen to try one of the bras mentioned in our recent Travel Bras article.)