snorklesue

FINALLY getting ready for our first trip to PV! Leaving next weekend for three weeks. I was wondering if we need to bring a rain jacket? I have a couple sweaters and long sleeved shirts for cooler evenings. We will be on pangas a few times-once for Rhythms of the Night-and wonder if the rain jacket would be needed as a wind jacket also. We are wimps and don't like to be cold (ie.getting out of NY for Mexico!) As ever, trying not to take too much-not often successful. Thanks.

suze

Nope, definitely no rain jacket! Even if it rains (which is unlikely this time of year) it's too hot to wear a jacket. If you get caught in a shower, you just get wet, then you get dry.

You don't need "a couple" of sweaters or Long sleeved shirts either. One of each will be plenty, and likely you will not use them. Maybe a lightweight windbreaker or a cardigan sweater for the night you are out on a boat.

I go to PV often. I've never packed anything beyond summer clothes except for what I wear down on the plane (since I'm usually leaving Seattle in cold winter). So I have one each of sneakers, pants, long sleeve top or lightweight jacket. I rarely (like twice in 20+ trips) wear them again, until I'm at my transfer airport heading back home.

suze

I'm happy to post my packing list if you want me to. Doesn't matter how long I go for, I pack in one 24" rolling duffle bag plus a carry-on tote than can be used as a beach bag after arrival.

snorklesue

Thanks Suze-you are the reason we are going to PV! Yes, I'd appreciate your packing list-maybe I can scrap a few other items. Sue

suze

OK then, here goes ;-)

3 bathing suits (i hate to shimmy into damp ones)
2 pareo/sarongs (for cover up, you can buy them there)

flip flops
1-2 sturdy walking sandals
athletic sneakers (i do a lot of walking)

10-12 cotton tops (mix of tshirts, sleeveless, tank tops)
3 pair shorts
2 pair capris
2 short cotton knit skirts

of course undies, bras, socks for sneakers
something to lounge/sleep in

i buy a straw hat for the sun at the start of each trip. a baseball cap or visor is good for keeping sun out of your eyes in the pool or walking around town.

As long as you're staying in town there are loads of friendly places (lavenderia) to have laundry done, if it's not available right where you are staying. You drop off in the morning and usually pick up late afternoon. It's not expensive. Some places charge by weight, some by number of pieces.

i've been staying at apartments lately that provide towels and beach towels. but if you don't have that, you might want to add one beach towel, or buy one the first day along with your straw hat!

feel free to ask if you have any other specific questions about what you need to take, what's easily available there, etc.

happy to help!!

suze

Some women like a couple sundresses for wearing out to dinner. I'm not a dress wearing person myself, but thought I'd mention it.

snorklesue

Thanks again-sounds like a right amount of clothes. I will bring a sweater and long sleeve t-shirt tho and one dress. We are also planning to bring our own snorkels and masks (not fins)and are filling a suitcase with stuff like that-binoculars to watch whales, shoes for two people, etc. So we'll have one check in and two small carry-ons. I once went to China for a month with just one carry-on, but I do tend to think I need MORE.

garyrbeck

No rain jacket will be necessary. As you seem aware, once you are out on the water, temps drop and you may wish a heavier shirt or light sweater or a nylon wind breaker. Seas have been a bit rough with full moon and high tide but calm now. Took a ride down from Boca to Playa Colomitos, past Las Caletas where you will go on the Rhythm. I was in tee and shorts...with full blue sun and gorgeous reflecting water! Bring something light and easily crumpled into your suitcase. Worst off, you can always buy a memento here to keep the chill off. Days have been in town around 74-80F and nights dipping to 66-71F. Come on Down!
grb

suze

I do check thru my 24" rolling duffle. I could probably get it on the plane but it's not worth it to me having to limit liquids and drag it thru my connection airport. I happily pay the $25 to US Air.

I know it's hard to imagine when the place you live is in the middle of a freezing winter but it's warm to hot in PV. Even slightly heavier-weight cotton tshirts can feel like a "sweater" -ha!

snorklesue

We were lucky to escape the NY snowstorm and got to PV a day early. I can see why so many love it here, we have had a wonderful week! I have to say though I am glad I brought a sweater. The mornings and nights are a bit chilly, especially if it's windy. I even saw a waiter at a beachside restaurant put on a sweatshirt one windy and cloudy afternoon.

suze

Glad you had a good trip!!! Welcome to the PV travel club -lol!

Yes residents often dress warmer. There's times I see locals wearing a wool sweater and jeans, when I'm in a tank top & shorts!