Ultimate roundup of Amazon travel essentials for Mexico. Here are the most useful travel accessories you can buy on Amazon!
Packing for a trip to a destination you’ve never been to can feel overwhelming. Nearly as overwhelming as staring at pages and pages of Amazon search results for an item you *think* you need, but WAIT, which product is actually THE BEST?!
After reading this post, you will know the most useful products you can buy on Amazon for your trip to Mexico. I’ve done the work & combed through the top-rated travel accessories on Amazon so all you have to do is click “add to cart.”
From luggage and electronics to organization and safety, Amazon is a treasure trove of affordable travel accessories. But, just because something is a “good deal” doesn’t mean you need it for you trip. I included each item on this list because it will genuinely help to make travel in Mexico safer, smoother & more enjoyable.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Please see my full disclosure policy for details.
Amazon Travel Luggage & Organization
The Amazon travel items in this section all have to do with luggage and how to keep that luggage organized. I’ve included suggestions for bags that will come in handy for popular tourist activities in Mexico such as snorkeling and hiking.
Keep reading for the best Amazon travel luggage products for your trip to Mexico!
Osprey Sojourn Porter 30L Travel Backpack
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but that rolling suitcase isn’t going to cut it in Mexico.
I’ve witnessed firsthand travel companions struggling to wheel their luggage over cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks. Other reasons big rolling suitcases aren’t the vibe in Mexico:
- Buildings without elevators
- Limited trunk space in small taxis & economy Ubers
- Baggage delays in busy airports like Mexico City
Carrying a backpack is the more convenient option as long as its the right backpack. I’ve traveled exclusively with Osprey backpacks for the past decade, and it is hands down one of the most useful travel products you can buy on Amazon.
While the Osprey travel backpacks come in a variety of different sizes, my bag of choice is the Sojourn Porter 30L because it meets the carry-on requirements for Mexican budget airlines like Volaris and VivaAerobus which means I can save on luggage fees and skip baggage claim.
I love that this backpack has an easy-to-access laptop sleeve on the back panel so I don’t need to bring a second bag for my computer. When you’re traveling in Mexico, the more bags you have the greater chance there is that someone will walk off with one of them 😬
I’ve also owned the 46L version of this same backpack, but it’s much more space than I need for a single-climate trip. Even if it’s packed to capacity, the 30L version doesn’t get too heavy and is easy to maneuver. The padded hip belt goes a long way in helping to distribute the weight of the bag—my 65-year-old mom also uses the Osprey Sojourn Porter 30L Travel Backpack when traveling in Mexico.
Click here to see the Osprey Sojourn 30L Travel Backpack on Amazon
Digital Luggage Scale
Budget airlines in Mexico like Volaris and VivaAerobus have strict size and weight limits for luggage. A few years back, I was traveling from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido and thought my carry-on bag was probably underweight…
When I got to the gate, there was an airline employee weighing each and every bag before letting the passenger board the flight. Spoiler alert: My bag was too heavy & I had to pay something like $800 MXN right there at the gate just so I could get on my flight.
I like this digital luggage scale because it gives the readout in both pounds and kilograms (Mexico uses the latter). You can just focus on packing efficiently instead of worrying about calculating the conversion.
Click here to see the Etekcity Luggage Scale on Amazon
Packing Cubes
While we’re on the subject of packing efficiently, these packing cubes are a total game changer. They help keep my bag organized—no more misplacing items or completely unpacking my bag every time I need something. Use these packing cubes for one trip, and the only regret you’ll have is that you didn’t start using them sooner.
Packing cubes are especially helpful for travel in Mexico because they help keep your clothes wrinkle-free. If your destination in Mexico is hot like so many of the popular ones are, the last thing you want to be doing is standing over a hot iron or steamer to get rid of pesky wrinkles.
These packing cubes also help to ensure that you’re making the most of the space in your luggage so you can keep the bags you bring to Mexico to a minimum. If you wish to travel fast and far, travel light!
Click here to shop the Bagail Compression Packing Cubes on Amazon
Hanging Toiletry Bag
Much like packing cubes, a quality toiletry bag makes all the difference for staying organized while traveling. This foldable one by Bagsmart has four individual compartments with transparent pockets so you can find exactly what you need exactly when you need it.
Another feature that I love is that the two main pockets have elastic straps to keep bottles upright—there are few things more frustrating that opening up your toiletry bag after travel to discover that your shampoo or face wash leaked everywhere.
Because this bag is water-resistant, you don’t need to worry about putting it down on a wet bathroom countertop which is a common occurrence in Mexico’s more rustic accommodation where the faucet flow can be a bit erratic.
The Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag comes in two sizes. If you travel with mostly “travel-size” items, the medium size is perfect for you. For travelers who need to pack full-size products, the large is the better option.
Click here to shop the Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag on Amazon
Foldable Lightweight Backpack
Across Mexico, many states have banned the distribution of plastic bags. You can pack a reusable shopping bag or purchase one from the store, but I prefer a foldable backpack like this one.
It’s ultra lightweight and easily folds up into a neat little rectangle when not in use. You have an extra bag when you need it but don’t have to pay additional luggage fees.
I was grateful to have a foldable lightweight backpack when we did this awesome jungle hike near Puerto Vallarta.
Click here to shop the Zomake Ultra Lightweight Daypack on Amazon
Waterproof Dry Bag
Some of the most popular tourist activities in Mexico involve the water. But, it’s tough to fully enjoy a day of whale watching in Los Cabos or snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta if you’re worried about your phone and other important items getting wet.
This roll top waterproof sack from Earth Pak keeps your stuff dry and protected. It’s lightweight and easy to fold so you can pack it away in your luggage for travel. When your valuables our inside, you can sling it over your should thanks to the handy strap.
These bags are high quality and made to last. Even if the whole thing falls into the water, your stuff will stay dry. If you only need it for your keys, wallet & phone, the 5L size should suffice.
Click here to shop the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag on Amazon
Amazon Travel Accessories For Electronics
This section includes the best Amazon travel essentials for your electronics.
Remember, if you’re coming to Mexico from the US, the outlets are the same as what you’re used to back home. But if you’re traveling to Mexico from Europe, you will likely need to bring an adaptor.
Airfly Bluetooth Audio Transmitter
This handy little device allows you to use your Airpods or other wireless headphones with media players that ordinarily don’t have bluetooth capabilities. Say adíos to bad audio and annoying cords!
The Airfly Bluetooth Audio Transmitter has a super long better life (more than 25 hours), so as long as it’s charged up before your journey, you can watch movies and shows with quality audio until you arrive at your destination.
Your first thought was probably to use this useful Amazon travel accessory for your in-flight entertainment, but it will also be great to have for long haul bus rides.
Traveling by bus is one of my favorite ways to travel in Mexico because it’s safe, affordable, convenient & comfortable. First-class buses in Mexico have screens on the back of every seat, and if you have the Airfly, you can tune into whichever movie or show piques your interest without sacrificing audio quality.
Click here to shop the Airfly Bluetooth Audio Transmitter on Amazon
Portable Charger
There’s no worse feeling than settling in for your 13-hour bus ride from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido only to realize that your phone is on 2% battery (true story).
Having a fully charged phone isn’t just important for keeping yourself entertained, it’s also essential for safety. Especially if you don’t speak Spanish, you need access to Google Maps and Google Translate to get around in Mexico with confidence.
Whether I’m waiting for a flight at the chaotic CDMX airport or working remotely from a cafe in Guadalajara, there never seems to be an outlet around when I need it. Of all the Amazon travel essentials in this roundup, you could make the argument that this portable travel charger is the most useful.
This portable charger from Anker is super durable without sacrificing slimness. One of the lightest designs on the market, it only weighs 7.5 ounces but has enough juice to fully charge your smartphone multiple times.
Click here to shop the Anker Portable Charger on Amazon
Power Strip Surge Protector
The morning that I planned to start writing this very post, the power at our apartment in Guadalajara went out—it was the second time this month. Depending on where you are in Mexico, power outages are common & when the electricity returns, spikes and surges can occur.
This travel power strip protects against over-voltage, over-current & short-circuiting. Other surge protectors on the market have stiff cords, but this one has an extra long, flexible cord that coils easily for travel.
Digital nomads traveling in Mexico will love the three-side design of this power strip that allows it to support up to nine devices using just one wall charging unit.
Click here to shop the One Beat Power Strip Surge Protector on Amazon
Amazon Travel Must-Haves for Safety in Mexico
It’s no secret that safety is a worry for many travelers considering a trip to Mexico. Given the way the country is portrayed in the international media, it’s understandable if you’re a little freaked out.
The Amazon travel products in this section address common safety concerns for Mexico including theft and illness.
Security Doorstop Alarm
To give yourself (and any concerned but well-meaning loved ones) piece of mind, this doorstopper security alarm is simple to use and perfect for travel. To set the alarm, just wedge it under the door and flip the switch to on. If someone tries to open the door, the 120 dB alarm will sound.
Just remember to take the batteries out while you’re traveling so it doesn’t accidentally go off during your flight.
Click here to shop the ZZRUI Door Stopper Security Alarm on Amazon
Soap Sheets
Travelers often complain that the street food in Mexico made them sick, but usually, it’s the germs they brought with them to the food stand that does them in. Think about it: You touched handrails, turnstiles, doors, pesos, etc. and THEN your taco?! What did you think was going to happen?
Fomin makes paper soap sheets for hand washing on the go so you never have to settle for gel antibacterial when you really want to lather up. Keeping your hands clean is essential for staying healthy while traveling in Mexico.
The soap sheets come in a portable little box that you can carry with you in your purse or backpack. To use, all you do is remove one from the pack, get it wet & start to lather as the sheet begins to dissolve.
Unlike unsatisfying and ultra-drying hand sanitizer, these soaps sheets work into a foaming, moisturizing lather. Available scents include tea tree oil, sweet orange & lavender. Just be sure to remove the sheet from the pack before you get your hands wet or risk turning the whole package into a soapy mess!
Click here to shop the Fomin Antibacterial Paper Soap Sheets on Amazon
Cable Luggage Lock
Remember, opportunity makes the thief—inconvenience them even a little and they’ll move on in search of an easier mark. So even though a combination padlock isn’t 100% anti-theft, it’s a deterrent which is enough to do the trick in most cases.
This cable luggage lock lets you set your own combination & has an inspection indicator so you know if airport security opened your bag.
I like having a luggage lock when I’m staying in hotels and Airbnbs in Mexico where there isn’t a safe in the room. It also gives me piece of mind when I hand off my backpack to the luggage attendant to load under the bus.
Click here to shop the Sure Lock TSA Compatible Track Luggage Locks on Amazon
Scarf with Hidden Zipper Pocket
Pickpocketing does happen in Mexico, and backpacks & purses are easy targets. This infinity scarf has a hidden zipper pocket where you can store valuables like your passport and credit cards. Since the material isn’t super thick, it would probably be a little uncomfortable to carry your phone—although the pocket is deep enough.
I mostly use this scarf when I’m traveling on a plane or bus. It’s a lot easier for me to fall asleep when I know my belongings are safe, and the comfortable jersey knit keeps me nice and cozy even is the A/C is blasting.
Click here to shop the elzama Scarf with Hidden Zipper Pocket
Bug Spray Wipes
Especially if you’re traveling to Mexico during rainy season, mosquitos can be a real issue. While the odds of contracting a disease from a mosquito bite is relatively low, it’s still a possibility. A friend of mine got dengue fever from a mosquito bite in Mexico & said it was one of the most miserable experiences of her life…
Since carrying around a bottle of bug spray can be inconvenient (who wants another liquid in their toiletry bag??), toss a pack of these bug spray wipes in your bag. I always have one in the side pocket of my backpack in case a destination is unexpectedly buggy.
Click here to shop OFF! Insect Repellent Wipes on Amazon
Insulated Water Bottle
Most places in Mexico, it’s not safe to drink the tap water. In some states like Chiapas, the water treatment facilities are notoriously poor so it’s extra important to always have potable water for not just drinking but also brushing your teeth.
On other lists of Amazon travel essentials, you’ll likely find foldable water bottles like this one on the roundup of must-haves. As someone who’s owned several different foldable water bottles, I’ll just be honest: they’re not all their cracked up to be.
Especially for traveling in Mexico, I much prefer a stainless steel water bottle that actually keeps your water cold. This insulated water bottle has a push-button lid with lock making it leak-proof. You have the option to sip through the built-in straw or tilt it back for a big gulp via the spout opening.
The key to ensuring that your insulated water bottle is just as convenient as a foldable water is a carry loop—which this one has! I think the 24 oz or 32 oz model are both solid options that will keep you hydrated without taking up too much space, but there’s also a 40 oz version for extra thirsty folks.
Click here to shop the Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle on Amazon
More Amazon Travel Essentials You’ll Need in Mexico
The final three items in this roundup of Amazon travel products are some of my most essential travel essentials for Mexico. Seriously, I never leave home without these three items:
Light Blocking Sleep Mask
Did all the Airbnb hosts of Mexico get together & collectively decide that blackout curtains are just not a thing?! I’ve slept in one too many places where the window coverings were basically tissue paper, and now I never travel without my sleep mask.
Not all sleeps masks are created equal. Design is crucial for a comfortable fit. This light blocking sleep mask has deep indents so as not to put on pressure on your eyes. It has a full adjustable strap so you can get the fit you need to ensure the truly blackout sleep you deserve.
Click here to shop the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask on Amazon
Ear Plugs
I won’t beat around the arbusto: Mexico is noisy. From barking dogs and church bells chiming to trucks with a speaker strapped to the roof blasting recordings calling for mattresses, refrigerators & stoves (¿o algo de fierro viejo que vendan?)
When I lived in the historic center of Querétaro, cohetes (bottle rockets) would pop off at all hours of the day and night for seemingly no rhyme or reason. New Yorkers who’ve moved to Mexico have told me the noise here is like nothing they’ve ever experienced—New freaking Yorkers!
The noise in Mexico is loud, and depending on where you are you, nearly constant. These ultra soft foam ear plugs block out sound and are actually really comfortable once you get used to wearing them. It’s a bit of an adjustment but so worth the effort to be able to guarantee yourself a good night’s sleep wherever you are in Mexico.
Click here to shop the Lysian Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs on Amazon
Quick-Dry Towel
Tossing a quick-dry towel into your luggage is a no-brainer. They’re lightweight, compact & always come in handy. In Mexico, I most often use mine to throw down at the beach or wipe my face during a sweaty hike.
This three-pack of quick-dry towels includes three different sizes. There’s a face towel, hair towel & body towel. In addition to being super absorbent, they’re odor-resistant so it won’t smell after it dries. I’ve had my set of quick-dry towels of years & they’re still in great shape.
After a trip, I wash the towels & once they’re dry (which as the name suggests is very quick), I roll it up & store the pouch in my backpack so it’s ready for my next adventure.
Click here to shop the OlipmiaFit Quick Dry Towel 3 Size Pack on Amazon
Must-Have Amazon Travel Essentials for Mexico (Final Thoughts)
As I put together this roundup of the best travel products you can buy on Amazon, I reflected on my own travels in Mexico and only selected products that would be of genuine use to you during your time here. This thoughtful curation is my answer to the viral TikToks telling you that you HAVE to buy something.
Before you click “add to cart,” it’s responsible to have a reason why you’re purchasing something. That’s why for every item in this post I provided a concrete why related to specifically traveling in Mexico.
If you have a question about any of the Amazon travel accessories included in this post, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments. I’d also love to hear any additional travel products from Amazon that you think deserve a spot in this guide—bonus points if you mention why it’s essential for Mexico in particular!
Looking for more guidance as you prepare for your trip to Mexico? Check out this Mexico packing list post with a free printable checklist!
Veronica Hanson says
I keep meaning to buy a luggage weight checker! It’s stressful heading to the airport not knowing if we have to reshuffle things since some airlines are 20kg and others are 50lbs.
Oh and that wedge alarm is good for parents if you’re staying at an Airbnb without locks on the door. 😉
Veronica Hanson recently posted…Latest Safety Tips for Family Travel to Turkey