Backpack travel in Mexico offers a unique and enriching travel experience for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking natural landscapes of this diverse country. From the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, to the pristine beaches of Tulum, to exploring Mexico City, to the colonial streets of Oaxaca, Mexico's vast affordable transportation options provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Budget-Friendly Adventure:

Backpack travel in Mexico is a budget-friendly way to experience all the country has to offer. Hostels, inexpensive hotels, and public transportation make it possible to explore Mexico without breaking the bank, allowing you to extend your stay and make the most of your travel budget. We often eat at the local markets (featured on the GEM map: Google Maps - Web-based map) to experience local dishes and to save money. Watch were the locals choose to eat and eat there. If it’s empty, there is a reason.

• We use carry-on style travel backpacks to avoid airport check-in lines & checked bags. Often we are exploring during the day between transport and overnights, so a travel backpack is key. Roller-wheel style luggage does not work in Mexico for this style of travel. Sidewalks and walkways are often narrow, not complete, nor standardized. We tend to stay places 2-3 nights then move on. If we like a place we stay longer.

• Packing cubes are essential and we roll up our clothes. We choose fabrics that can be washed in the sink. We bring a pair of hiking shoes and sandals. A pair of long travel pants / long skirt are a must for more conservative Colonial cities.

• We will use laundry services (lavanderia). You pay by the weight. Supply your own bag & count the # of items & say that number so nothing comes up short. Pay when you pick back up. Coin-ops are far and few between.

• Brings the travel standards: Hostel supplies, 3oz sunscreen, small pack towel , sun hat, feminine hygiene products and over the counter medications. These items are expensive to purchase in Mexico.

• We now bring an additional packable-style ultra light backpack for our day trips (when we have multiple overnights).

• Tap water is often not safe to drink, so a double-wall water bottle is key. Bottled water is sold everywhere, but 5 gallon filtered water containers is often available to refill your bottle for free.

• Facebook Mexico Travel Community is a great online resource.