Surfing in Mexico sounds dreamy, until you’re sitting on a beach towel in Sayulita realizing you forgot board wax and rash cream. Been there. On my last trip, I thought I had it all together…until I didn’t. So, here’s your no-BS guide to packing for a surf trip to Mexico, built on personal wipeouts.
Pack More Than One Swimsuit. Trust Me.
Saltwater, sunscreen, and sand will destroy your swimwear by day two.
Ladies: avoid anything with metal rings, bows, or cute-but-useless details. Surf rash is real, and you don’t want it across your chest. Think sleek and seamless.
Rash Guards Are Not Optional
Mexico’s sun doesn’t play.
You need at least one good rash guard to save your skin from UV rays and the sandpaper effect of your board.
Go for:
- Crew neck
- Flat seams
- Zero zippers
Bonus tip: Save the trendy zippered styles for poolside posing, not paddling out.
Mineral Paste (Because You’ll Fry Without It)
Look, nobody wants to look like a mime on the beach, but zinc paste is a rite of passage. A thick smear on your nose and cheeks means you’ll return home with skin, not a burn blister.
Brands I swear by:
The Other Gear You’ll Regret Not Bringing
Here’s everything else that saved me, or I wished I had:
- Wetsuit or surf suit depending on the season
- Surf wax rentals don’t always come with it; Sticky Bumps is solid
- Extra board leash they snap, and surf shops overcharge
- Reef-safe sunscreen not optional
- Surfboard fins double-check yours and have an extra pair
- Quick-dry towel so you’re not air-drying like a lizard)
- Surf poncho changing on the beach made easy
- Water bottle hydration is not a personality trait, it’s a survival need
- Reef booties for rocky entries
- Adjustable bucket hat for sun protection, style optional
- Sunglasses polarized is best
- First aid kit reef rash is no joke
- Repair kit dings happen
- Dry bag for your phone, not your hopes and dreams
- Sandals your feet will thank you
- Helmet if you’re going hardcore reef break. Yes, it’s a thing
Downtime Stuff You’ll Be Glad You Brought
Let’s be honest, even if you’re a wave-chasing machine, there’s still chill time. Consider:
- Earplugs wind and water make a chaotic combo
- Thermos because hot tea hits different after a cold morning surf
- Book or Kindle beach naps in the shade + reading = bliss
You don’t need to pack your entire apartment, but skipping the essentials will ruin your flow (and maybe your face). Make a list, check it twice, and remember: it’s better to look ridiculous in zinc than to look like a lobster on day two.
If you’ve got questions or favorite surf gear I didn’t include, drop a comment. And if you forget something… well, that’s what overpriced beach town surf shops are for.
More Surf & Travel Guides You’ll Love:
Best Beach Towns in Mexico for Non-Resort Vibes (coming soon)
Skip the all-inclusive, here’s where to find sun, surf, and soul.
What to Pack for a Hot Weather Adventure Trip (coming soon)
Because sweating through your clothes and forgetting electrolytes is a rookie move.
Gluten-Free Guide to Sayulita, Mexico: What to Eat & What to Avoid (coming soon)
Yes, you can travel Mexico without wrecking your gut. Here’s how.
