Guadalajara is a beautiful, lively city located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. While visiting Guadalajara, it is important to be prepared for the different weather patterns that occur throughout the year.
The city has a subtropical highland climate and experiences hot summers and mild winters. In this article, we will discuss what clothing items and accessories are essential to pack for all seasons in Guadalajara.
In Guadalajara, the climate remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with an average temperature of 22° C (72° F). However, during the spring and summer months from May to August, it can get quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40° C (102° F).
.Summer (starting in June) is also when the rainy season begins, lasting until September or October, with occasional storms that bring heavy rainfall and much cooler temps. Just be aware that May is the hottest month and you should be prepared for nothing but heat and sun.
As we move into fall (September - November), the temperatures cool down slightly, creating perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring cultural sites. The winter months (December - February) are mild, but occasional cold fronts bring chilly temperatures around 10° C (50° F) at night, so it's important to layer your clothing during these months. Normally temperatures are around 15° C.
Now that we have an understanding of Guadalajara's weather patterns, let's discuss some essential clothing items you should pack.
Read up on our Guadalajara city guide for all the top things to do, best places to stay, and must eat foods.
When it comes to packing for Guadalajara, it's important to keep in mind the city's varying climates throughout the year. While summers can get hot and somewhat humid, winters tend to be cooler and rainier. Here are some clothing essentials to consider bringing no matter what season you're visiting in:
During the summer months of June through August, temperatures can reach upwards of 100°F (38°C) during the day. It's important to pack lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibers such as modal, cotton, or linen that will keep you cool and comfortable in the heat. Consider packing loose-fitting tops and shorts, as well as sundresses or skirts.
If you're planning a trip to Guadalajara during the fall or winter months (September through February), temperatures can fluctuate between 50-70°F (10-21°C). It's essential to pack layers that you can easily add or remove depending on the temperature.
You should pack items like light jackets, cardigans, and long-sleeved tops that can be layered over a blouse or polo. I typically bring a cotton sweater, a rain jacket and a wool sweater for the cool nights.
The rainy season in Guadalajara typically runs from June through early October. If you're visiting during this time, it's important to pack rain gear such as an umbrella or lightweight rain jacket that will keep you dry during sudden downpours.
Additionally, pack some waterproof shoes and you may want to bring boots. I always pack leather shoes for the rainy season. I must warn you, these streets can become rivers when it rains due to poor drainage in the city. So be prepared to have to cross a lot of standing water.
When deciding what to bring to Guadalajara, make sure to take into account the weather and time of year. Pack a mix of light clothes, layering pieces, and rain gear so you're ready for whatever the weather in Guadalajara has in store for you.
Whether you're planning to explore the city's historic center or venture into the surrounding countryside, comfortable footwear is a must. Here are some footwear options to consider when packing for all seasons in Guadalajara:
What I love about Guadalajara is that it is a very walkable city with plenty of opportunities to explore on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are essential if you plan to spend time wandering through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and colorful buildings. Go for sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes that offer good support and cushioning.
During the hot summer months, temperatures can soar in Guadalajara. Sandals or flip flops are a great option for staying cool and comfortable while still looking stylish. Look for sandals with good arch support and straps that won't rub or chafe your feet.
Guadalajara is usually pretty dry, but it does have a rainy season from June to September. If you're visiting during this time, make sure to wear waterproof boots or shoes because the streets can easily flood during heavy rainstorms. Look for boots with good traction soles to stay steady on wet pavement.
When packing for Guadalajara, it's important to remember that the city is located in a region with high altitude and intense sun exposure. So it's essential to pack sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher.
Make sure to apply it generously and frequently throughout the day, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. I usually sweat mine off, so I carry some in my bag to reapply if I’m out all day
You'll also want to bring a good pair of sunglasses that offer UV protection. Not only will they protect your eyes from harmful rays, but they'll also keep you looking fashionable.
You'll definitely want to have a hat or cap with you while you're in Guadalajara. It's crucial to shield your face and head from the sun, especially if you'll be outside during the hottest parts of the day. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap is a game-changer for avoiding sunburns and staying comfortable.
While Guadalajara is known for its warm climate, temperatures can drop significantly during certain times of the year, particularly in the evenings and early mornings. That's why it's always a good idea to bring along a scarf or shawl that you can wrap around yourself when it gets chilly.
Springtime in Guadalajara can be a bit unpredictable with temperatures ranging from cool to down right sweltering towards the end. It's important to bring light jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings when the temperature drops. It's also still the rainy season, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or rain jacket just in case. Bring your sun protection and lightweight clothing too.
When you're in Guadalajara during the summer, it gets really hot and sticky. That's why it's super important to pack clothes that are light and made from natural materials like cotton, modal, or linen. These fabrics will let your skin breathe and keep you feeling cool in the scorching weather. Oh, and don't forget to bring a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the intense UV rays.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Guadalajara when the weather becomes cooler and more pleasant. I believe it is my favorite. It's a good idea to bring layering options such as light jackets, cardigans, and scarves for those chilly mornings and evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are also important as this is a great time of year for exploring the city on foot.
When packing for Guadalajara in the winter, make sure to include long-sleeve shirts, pants, or jeans for the daytime. You might also want to bring sweaters or jackets for cooler evenings. Don't forget a light scarf or shawl for that extra warmth when needed. Additionally, don't leave behind articles for sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Remember to check the weather forecast as temperatures can really vary during this time.
In Mexico, the hurricane season can change every year, including how it might affect Guadalajara. Usually, the hurricane season in the eastern Pacific Ocean, which affects the western coast of Mexico, goes from May 15 to November 30.
It's worth mentioning that Guadalajara is located inland, about 350 kilometers (220 miles) away from the Pacific coast. Because of this, it doesn't get hit by hurricanes as often as coastal areas do. Since Guadalajara is an inland city, it doesn't face the full force of hurricanes.
However, it can still get some effects like heavy rain, strong winds, and storms from tropical systems that come ashore or pass nearby. These effects usually happen when weakened remnants or outer bands of hurricanes reach the area.
Just be mindful of this when you are traveling through Jalisco in general or planning a visit to the city. So you will definitely want to bring some rain protection during this time.
Whenever you choose to visit Guadalajara, make sure you bring a variety of clothes suitable for any weather conditions. With our packing tips, you can fully enjoy everything Guadalajara has to offer without concerns of being unprepared or uncomfortable.
I won't come home till after I shaken hands with native lands and kissed the old friends back there - Swim, Ambulance Ltd
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