Packing light as a digital nomad is an art—and a necessity if you want to move efficiently and avoid baggage fees. When traveling to Mexico with only a carry-on, you’ll need to prioritize essentials, maximize versatility, and ensure you have everything you need to work and explore comfortably. Here’s my guide to traveling light while staying prepared.

Why Traveling Carry-On Only is the Best Choice

Choosing to travel with only a carry-on comes with many benefits. You avoid the long wait at baggage claim after a tiring flight, eliminate the risk of lost luggage, and save on checked baggage fees. Plus, carrying a lighter bag means greater mobility—you won’t struggle lugging a heavy suitcase up stairs, onto buses, or through cobblestone streets. With carry-on only, you can breeze through airports, stay organized, and enjoy a hassle-free travel experience.

1. Choose the Right Carry-On Bag

The key to successful minimalist packing is selecting the perfect carry-on bag. Look for a durable, lightweight bag that meets airline size restrictions. Here are my top recommendations:

Beis Mini Weekender or Convertible Mini Weekender – The perfect size to stow under the seat onboard the plane, these bags are incredibly roomy and feature a bottom compartment for shoes, a curling iron, or other essentials. Plus, the back pocket unzips to securely attach the bag to your suitcase. Available in many colors! Get $20 off using my referral link.
Quince Carry-On Plus Polycarbonate Suitcase – This is what my husband and kids use! It’s a sleek, durable, and lightweight suitcase with ample packing space. Check it out here. Not sponsored, we just use this personally.
Delsey Chatelet Air 20” Carry-On Spinner – My personal go-to! This suitcase combines style with functionality, featuring smooth rolling wheels and an elegant design. Check it out here. Not sponsored, I just use this personally.

2. Stick to Versatile Clothing

Packing for Mexico’s climate means focusing on breathable, lightweight fabrics. Choose neutral and mix-and-match pieces that can be dressed up or down. Here’s a basic clothing list:

3–4 tops (mix of tank tops, T-shirts, and one nicer blouse/shirt)
2–3 bottoms (shorts, lightweight pants)
1 dress or jumpsuit (for versatile wear)
1 lightweight jacket or sweater (for cooler evenings) When I am in Yucatan or Quintana Roo, I don't bring a jacket. But if you are in CDMX or somewhere cooler you will need one. If you are leaving from a colder climate, just wear this on travel day. Save the room in your bags. I usually leave from JFK airport and in the winter it's cold, but I don't wear a heavy coat. You will just have to carry it around the airport anyway. A sweatshirt or light jacket is enough.
1 swimsuit
Comfortable walking shoes (wear these on travel day) + sandals (pack these)
Sunglasses
Buy a hat for sun protection when you get there. Save the room in your suitcase.

3. Minimalist Toiletries

Toiletries take up valuable space, so opt for solid versions of your essentials and buy the rest when you get there. Here’s what I bring:

Solid shampoo and conditioner bars from The Earthling Co, You should be using these already. Even when not traveling. Your hair will love them! Get 30% off with my link ⬆️
Minimal makeup (foundation, moisture cream, mascara, lip balm) You can buy the best moisturizer in Mexico. I always buy 2 extra when I'm there.
A small reusable razor
Pack the toothbrush, buy toothpaste when you get there. It's cheaper anyway
Buy soap and sunscreen when you get there.

4. Essential Tech Gear for Digital Nomads

As a digital nomad, staying connected and productive is essential. Here’s my tech must-haves:

Laptop
Compact wireless mouse
Noise-canceling headphones (great for flights & co-working spaces)
Power bank (I personally don't bring one and have never needed one, but if you will use this bring it!

5. Important Documents & Money Management

Keep digital and physical copies of your important documents easily accessible. Here’s what to bring:

Passport & digital copies (stored in cloud storage)
Travel insurance details
Debit/credit cards (consider a travel-friendly bank like Schwab, Wise or Revolut)
A small amount of cash in USD and pesos. I buy pesos from my local bank 2 weeks before I travel. Great for paying for transportation from the airport and anything you need between airport and ATM.

6. Packing Tips to Maximize Space

Use packing cubes to keep clothes organized and compressed.
Wear your bulkiest items (like a jacket or sneakers) on travel days.
Limit “just in case” items. If you can buy it in Mexico, don’t pack it!
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles.

7. Laundry Options While Traveling

One of the best ways to travel light is by doing laundry on the go. Many Airbnbs in Mexico come equipped with a washing machine, making it easy to refresh your wardrobe without overpacking. If your accommodation doesn’t have one, lavanderías (local laundromats) are incredibly convenient. You can simply drop off your clothes, and they will be washed, dried, and folded—often within just a few hours—for an affordable price. This hassle-free option allows you to pack fewer outfits while always having fresh clothes for your adventures.

Final Thoughts

Traveling light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style—it’s about being intentional with what you bring. By focusing on versatile clothing, compact tech gear, and minimalist toiletries, you can travel carry-on only with ease. Plus, Mexico’s laid-back lifestyle makes it the perfect place to embrace a minimalist approach.

How to Travel Carry-On Only to Mexico