Are you planning a Puerto Vallarta trip with no idea what belongs on a Mexico vacation packing list? Do you always over or under pack? Are you a fashion-lover trying to plan the best looks for your trip? If any of these apply to you, this guide to what to wear in Puerto Vallarta is for you.
I’ve visited Puerto Vallarta with family multiple times, and it’s one of my favorite vacation destinations. Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
A PV vacation typically consists of pool days, adventure activities, nights on the town, and relaxing at your resort. Packing for so many different activities can be difficult, especially if you aren’t familiar with the dress code and customs of an area.
Keep reading for my ultimate Mexico vacation packing list that will make your packing for Puerto Vallarta easy and fun.
If you’re interested in more outfit ideas, check out my packing list for men or guide to what to wear to a Mexico all inclusive.
Contents hide
How to Dress in Puerto Vallarta
What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta During the Day
What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta at Night
Poolside Outfits in Mexico
Mexico Vacation Activewear
Non-Clothing Mexico Vacation Packing List
Packing for Puerto Vallarta for Every Season
One Week Puerto Vallarta Packing List
Summary of this Mexico Vacation Packing List
FAQ – What to Pack for Puerto Vallarta
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How to Dress in Puerto Vallarta
After considering weather, I always consider the vibe of a destination when packing for a vacation. The vibe may be laid back, chic, athletic, or something else.
In my opinion, the best way to feel appropriately dressed for a destination is to match the vibe of others. I hate feeling over or under dressed!
The vibe of Puerto Vallarta is relaxed and casual. Resort wear is appropriate everywhere you visit in hotels or downtown. I don’t know of anywhere that has a dress code, so wear what makes you feel comfortable.
For me, that means casual sundresses and sandals for most occasions. Keep reading for more examples and shoppable outfit ideas.
What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta During the Day
During the day, if you aren’t at the beach or pool (see below for the cutest swimwear), you will likely be exploring the local towns, taking a food tour, or other casual activities.
During the day, I love a sundress, jean shorts with a blouse, or a simple romper. For shoes, a pair of comfortable, but cute sandals can be paired with different outfits and take up minimal space in your luggage.
Shop what to wear to Puerto Vallarta during the day
What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta at Night
Night time activities in Puerto Vallarta Mexico often include going out to dinner, bars, or clubs. As I mentioned, Puerto Vallarta is casual, so anything goes. If you prefer, you can get away with shorts and a t-shirt at most places. I prefer to dress up a bit, so I usually go for a midi dress with sandals to look put together but still comfortable. As a rule-of-thumb, I always pack one nicer outfit in case I want to go out to a fancy dinner or event. The below image includes my top picks!
Shop these Puerto Vallarta outfits for dinner and nightlife
Poolside Outfits in Mexico
One of the main reasons to visit Puerto Vallarta is to relax poolside with a co*cktail in hand. At least, that is where you will find me for most of my vacation. The below graphic includes my must-have items for the pool.
Swimsuits– pack at least two swimsuits so you never have to put on a wet one. When packing swimsuits for Mexico, I like to bring a one piece to wear with shorts like a body suit, a fuller coverage option for water activities, and a bikini for optimal tanning.
Swimsuit Cover Up– I like bringing a cute cover up that I can easily throw on over a swimsuit to wear to the bathroom, bar, or poolside restaurant. This is appropriate attire at most Mexico pools, beaches, and casual restaurants.
Flip-flops– A pair of waterproof sandals is great for the pool area where they are guaranteed to get wet and can easily be slipped on and off.
Shop these Mexico swimsuits and cover ups
Mexico Vacation Activewear
Above, I mentioned that I’m often poolside in Puerto Vallarta. When I’m not, I’m enjoying adventure activities in the jungle such as ziplining or ATVing. Pack some athletic clothes for outdoor activities or hitting the gym (if you do that on vacation).
Matching Sets– For a cuter take on athletic wear, get a cute matching set in bright colors. It will stand out in photos and make you feel super-confident.
Biker Shorts– In high-humidity destinations such as Mexico, I highly recommend biker shorts to prevent chafing. They are also super cute and comfortable.
Tennis Shoes– While you will spend most of your time in sandals, wear a pair of sneakers on the plane so you are prepared for activities.
Shop these Puerto Vallarta athetic outfits
Non-Clothing Mexico Vacation Packing List
In addition to all the clothes mentioned above, don’t forget to include these items on your Mexico vacation packing list.
- Sunscreen– The sun is intense, so protect yourself. Supergoop is my favorite for a lightweight formula and high SPF.
- Portable charger– There’s nothing worse than running out of battery when you are relying on your phone for navigation and photos. This portable charger with built in cords will help with that!
- Hat– A hat is another great way to protect yourself from the sun or hide crazy beach hair.
- Bug spray– While you don’t need bug spray in your resort, bring some for any jungle activities.
- Good book– Don’t forget a book for the plane and poolside. People You Meet on Vacation is one of my favorite travel-inspired books that is an easy-read.
- Imodium– In case you have any stomach issues, you will thank yourself for having this on hand.
- Reusable water bottle– Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated but remember to only refill it from filtered sources.
- Waterproof phone case– Pack a waterproof phone case so you can safely take photos on or in the water.
Shop these Puerto Vallarta vacation essentials
Packing for Puerto Vallarta for Every Season
The first thing to consider when packing for Puerto Vallarta is what season you are visiting and what the forecast is. Year-round, expect warm temperatures and sunny skies. In the summer, plan for temperature ranging from 70-90 degrees. In the winter, expect temperatures between 60-80 degrees.
During the day, you can wear shorts and tank tops year-round. In the winter, you should pack a light sweater or jacket for colder nights.
In addition to the barely changing temperatures between seasons, check the forecast for rain or storms. The most active hurricane season in the area is in September-October, but tropical storms can occur anytime.
If there is rain in the forecast, simply add a rain jacket to your Mexico vacation packing list and you will be set. Storms tend to pass quickly so don’t change your packing list too drastically.
One Week Puerto Vallarta Packing List
Here is an idea of what items to pack for one week in Puerto Vallarta. Since the items aren’t bulky and you only need a few pairs of shoes, you could fit this all in a carryon with the help of compression packing cubes.
The basic idea of this one week packing list is to have one casual and one dinner outfit for each day. The casual outfit will either be swimwear, activewear, or a casual outfit.
If you know your itinerary ahead of time, adjust this packing list to include more active outfits or more beach outfits depending on your plans.
Packing List:
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 5 Sundresses
- 3-4 Blouses
- 3-4 Swimsuits
- 1-2 Cover Ups
- 1-2 Athletic matching sets
- Socks/underwear
- Flip Flops
- Sandals (heeled or flat)
- Sneakers
- Toiletries and other essentials
Summary of this Mexico Vacation Packing List
Overall, this Mexico vacation packing list includes everything you need to bring and plenty options of what to wear in Puerto Vallarta. Follow this list and you won’t be caught with an overweight bag or left with regret of forgetting something.
If you take anything away from this packing guide, the three things you cannot forget to pack are a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a cute cover up. This is what you will wear most of the time and the rest you can throw together. Also, be sure to leave a bit of extra room in your suitcase to bring home souvenirs.
For more Puerto Vallarta travel tips and a complete itinerary, check out my travel guide.
If you’re interested in more outfit ideas, check out my packing list for men or what to wear to a Mexico all inclusive.
FAQ – What to Pack for Puerto Vallarta
What do you wear to a resort in Puerto Vallarta?
The best resort wear for Puerto Vallarta is a swimsuit and cover up by the pool or beach, shorts and a top during the day, and a cute sundress for dinner. The best resort wear for Mexico is often in light fabrics and tropical patterns.
Can I wear jewelry in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, you can wear jewelry in Puerto Vallarta. However, I recommend leaving your fine jewelry at home so you don’t have to worry about losing it in the water or during adventure activities.
Is there a dress code for all-inclusive resorts?
There is typically not a dress code for all-inclusive resorts. Some resort restaurants may have a dress code such as no swimwear or no flip flops. Check with your specific hotel for any dress code requirements.
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- Guide To One Week In Puerto Vallarta: Everything You Need To Know
- What To Do In Puerto Vallarta With Family
- Best Restaurants In Puerto Vallarta Mexico
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
I am an avid traveler and enthusiast of Mexico vacation destinations, with a particular expertise in packing and dressing for trips to Puerto Vallarta. I have visited Puerto Vallarta multiple times and have a deep understanding of the dress code, customs, and weather considerations for this popular tourist destination. I have experienced the diverse activities that Puerto Vallarta has to offer, including pool days, adventure activities, nights on the town, and relaxing at the resort. Through my firsthand experiences, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of what to wear and pack for a trip to this beautiful city.
Concepts Related to the Article "What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta"
Puerto Vallarta Vacation Experience
- Puerto Vallarta as a popular tourist destination
- Activities such as pool days, adventure activities, nights on the town, and relaxing at the resort
- Dress code and customs of the area
- Vibe of Puerto Vallarta being relaxed and casual
- Dressing appropriately for the destination's vibe
What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta During the Day
- Sundresses, jean shorts with a blouse, or a simple romper
- Comfortable and cute sandals for daytime activities
What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta at Night
- Casual dress code for nighttime activities
- Options for dressing up, such as a midi dress with sandals
Poolside Outfits in Mexico
- Essential items for poolside relaxation, including swimsuits, cover-ups, and flip-flops
- Suitable attire for pool areas, beaches, and casual restaurants
Mexico Vacation Activewear
- Athletic clothing for outdoor activities and adventure
- Matching sets, biker shorts, and tennis shoes for comfort and style
Non-Clothing Mexico Vacation Packing List
- Essential non-clothing items such as sunscreen, portable charger, hat, bug spray, good book, Imodium, reusable water bottle, and waterproof phone case
Packing for Puerto Vallarta for Every Season
- Considerations for packing based on the season and weather forecast
- Year-round warm temperatures and dressing for different seasons
One Week Puerto Vallarta Packing List
- Packing list for a one-week trip, including casual and dinner outfits for each day
- Suggestions for versatile and compact packing
Summary of the Mexico Vacation Packing List
- Comprehensive overview of essential items and outfit options for Puerto Vallarta
- Emphasis on key items such as swimsuits, sunscreen, and cover-ups
FAQ – What to Pack for Puerto Vallarta
- Answers to common questions about resort wear, jewelry, and dress codes for all-inclusive resorts
- Related posts and travel guides for further information on Puerto Vallarta and other destinations.
