Is it your first time traveling to a New Mexico Destination? Prepare to be enthralled with its hidden and unexpected treasures. New Mexico boasts of a fantastic natural scenery, and within a few hours of driving you can go from hot springs to sunny dunes.
Make sure you make the most out of your trip by packing smartly. Here’s what you need to pack in your luggage to maximize what the beautiful region has to offer.
If you’d like a printable packing list plus so much more, grab our Ultimate Travel Journal here!
How to Pack for Your New Mexico Destination
Tees & cardigans
As the climate is variable in New Mexico, be prepared for weather changes as you drive across the state and change altitudes. The trick is to bring clothes you can easily layer. Bring cotton tees and cardigans that you can easily put on top of each other or remove when it gets too warm.
Outerwear
Many of the most popular destinations in the region are located on top of the mountains. New Mexico generally has a desert climate too, so overnight temperatures can really drop considerably. As such, you’d definitely need a warm jacket to brave the cold nights and crisp days even during the summer season. Also, if you travel during July or August, you’ll also encounter a couple of drizzle spells and short bursts of heavy rain, so a warm and waterproof jacket would definitely be of great help.
Footwear
If you’re planning on visiting national parks and exploring scenic trails, it is a very good idea to bring a decent pair of comfy trainers or hiking boots. This will help you endure long hours of walking minus the discomfort and nasty blisters. If your plan is to go sightseeing, enjoy good food and visit museums in New Mexico’s cities, flip-flops or sandals will serve you just fine!
Swimwear
As New Mexico is blessed with clean lakes, pristine rivers and an extensive selection of hot springs, bringing a swimsuit with you is always a good idea. Don’t forget to pack a coverup or robe, and sunscreen.
Accessories
A wide brimmed visor or hat is a must-have in New Mexico, especially if you plan to go all out on sightseeing during the daytime. Bringing refillable water bottles with you is also a good idea, as well, because of New Mexico’s arid climate.
Gear for Special Activities
New Mexico is known for its natural beauty and that’s what makes it an incredibly great place for outdoor activities such as rafting, biking, snorkeling, skiing and camping. If you’re planning to do any of these activities, it will definitely save you a lot of time and money if you bring some of your own gear. Better yet, if you are traveling by car, you can even bring bigger items with you such as a tent or a kayak.
Medicines
You’ll never know what will happen during your trip, so it’s best to be prepared with medicines for any kind of emergency. A lot of shops in New Mexico sell over-the-counter drugs for headaches and stomachaches, but you don’t want to spend your holiday looking for a pharmacy while you can be out sunbathing or enjoying mimosas.
Camera & Photo Equipment
New Mexico is not called the Land of Enchantment for nothing. Aside from its natural beauty, it also boasts of a significant fine arts scene centered around Santa Fe, and a distinct regional cuisine that is both gastronomic and visually appealing. You’ll definitely want to look back on photos to remember your trip by, so make sure to bring a camera with you. Don’t forget to bring an extra memory card and a battery charger, so you don’t miss out on capturing the moments.
Guidebooks
New Mexico is best explored with a local, or better yet ~ a private guide, but it also helps to bring a guidebook that comes with detailed town maps and a number of recommendations for restaurants and bars. This will definitely come in handy when you’re driving through a town or just looking for a snack, meal or nightcap nearby.
Join Us on a New Mexico Destination Exclusive Inner Circle Experience
Experiencing fun, travel and education in another culture is even more memorable when it’s shared in a group. Imagine all the wonderful memories you will make! Our goal is to have each Exclusive Experience be the trip of a lifetime for you!
Learn more about our Santa Fe Trip here!
