travel right. pack light : Oaxaca
The atmosphere is pretty casual and there is no need to bring any formal dress. It can be hot and dry during the day while cooler at night. The key to maintaining your comfort is to bring ample layers and protection from sun, wind and insects. Less is more and leave valuables at home!
Your passport (be sure it’s up to date!)
1-2 paper copies of your passport
Copy of your COVID vaccination record
Any prescriptions or medications you need- I like to bring a small personal med kit filled with the essentials I use.
Motion sickness pills or sea bands if you get motion sick!!
Ibuprofen, Advil, Excedrin, Ginger, Charcoal, Electrolyte tablets, anti-diarrheal, antibiotics, anti-itch cream, aloe
Bandaids, alcohol wipes, ace bandage, tape, Bacitracin, Neosporin
Variety of face masks
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Sunglasses
Small backpack or day bag
Phone
Chargers
Wallet/money
APPROVED at-home Covid tests for re-entry to the USA. Abbot’s BinaxNOW Antigen tests.
Hat-for sun and cold
Assortment of t-shirts and tanks tops
2-3 pairs fo shorts/skirts
Light weight flowy pants
Windbreaker or light weight rain jacket
Sweatshirt or sweater for the mountains
Light sweater
Sandals
Long pants and socks for optional hiking/exploring
Sneakers
Comfortable walking shoes
Sundress for dinner out
Personal toiletries
Sleep mask/ear plugs
Headlight
Camera
Extra batteries
Personal first aid kit
Tampons/pads
Book/journal/pen
Games like cards, bananagrams, Dominos etc
Currency
The currency in Oaxaca is the Mexican Peso. If you are bringing cash please do so in smaller bills (20's are fine) as larger ones are harder to change.
ATM’s and Casa de Cambios (money exchange offices) are widely available throughout the country.
Credit cards aren't always accepted so please don't depend on them as your only means of buying something.
You will need money for the meals that are on your own, any souvenir shopping you want to do, any alcohol you consume, extra snacks and any additional activities.
A fantastic app to download to your phone to make conversions easier is XE CURRENCY.
Tipping
There will not be many situations where you will need to tip but as always if you feel a service given to you deserves it, then it is up to your discretion i.e. driver, hotel staff, instructor....If you do an optional tour or experience generally a 10% tip is appreciated.
Typically the tip for our local guide and driver is not included and is handled by the group by the end of the trip either on an individual basis or on a group basis. This will be discussed with your Purposeful Nomad guide. It is completely up to your discretion but general ranges run between $5-$10 per day for the guide and for the driver- $3-$5 per day.
Wondering what’s in my suitcase? Here are some of my fav packing essentials. From skin care to gear and everything in between. Plus-all selections are from some of my favorite women owned, sustainable stores. Happy packing! ~Caitlin