What to pack for a road trip through the Bajío

The Bajío is the perfect route for a short road trip: the alleys of Guanajuato, the aqueduct in Querétaro and sunsets in San Miguel de Allende, all within a couple of hours' drive of each other. But the weather shifts more than you'd expect — cold mornings, sunny afternoons and chilly nights again, especially from November to February.

Comfortable shoes are rule number one: the cobblestones of Guanajuato and San Miguel are no place for sandals. Bring a light jacket for the evenings, sunscreen (the highland sun burns more than it feels like) and a power bank — you'll take a lot of photos and your phone won't forgive you.

If you travel in the rainy season (June to September), add a packable windbreaker. And one thing almost nobody brings but everyone ends up wanting: a small notebook to jot down the mezcals, wines and dishes you discover along the way — you'll forget them if you don't write them down.

On a private road trip there's no hauling big suitcases or catching connections — we drive straight from town to town. Still, pack light: the simpler your luggage, the easier it is to enjoy every stop without thinking about logistics.