Exploring Baja California by road is one of the most rewarding adventures you can have —remote beaches, cacti covered deserts, incredible wildlife, starry skies, and untouched trails. But it also comes with a few logistical challenges, especially when you’re off-grid for long stretches.
To help you hit the road with confidence, I’ve put together this post that every Baja traveler needs. Baja’s remote terrain is beautiful—but services are sparse. You’ll want to pack like you’re going off the grid … because you are!
Here’s the essentials I carry for a smooth, safe trip:
☐ Water: At least 1 gallon per person per day. I travel with THIS 7 gallons water container, and a duplicate one during hotter months (June to October)
☐ Non-perishable food: tostadas, tortillas, tuna, trail mix, instant mashed potatoes, pasta, etc.
☐ First aid kit: Very important in case of an injury in the middle of nowhere! It also includes electrolytes, sunscreen, meds, etc.
☐ Trash bags: Please remember to always Leave No Trace. Sadly, Baja is already full of trash left behind by unresponsible travelers – in many places – even in remote areas.
☐ Cash: Many small towns are cash-only and often struggle with change, so bring small denominations. Some places don’t even have a bank or ATM.
CAR GEAR:
☐ Spare tire: in good condition. In Baja it is not a matter of “if” you are going to get a flat tire, but “when”. Trust me, it’ll happen!
☐ Tire repair kit + inflator: I have used THIS inflator more times than I can count, not just for my car, but to also help other travelers.
☐ Fluids: oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission, etc.
☐ Recovery Gear: tow strap, jack, jumper cables. I use THIS tow strap, and THIS battery jumper.
☐ Basic tools: screwdrivers, duct tape, zip ties, wrench, hammer, etc.
☐ Safety: Fire extinguisher
TECH & NAVIGATON
☐ Offline maps (I use downloaded Google Maps)
☐ Paper maps
☐ Compass
☐ Power bank. I use THIS Jackery Explorer 1000.
☐ Extra USB cables, cigarette lighter adapters, an inverter, etc.
MUST HAVES
☐ Toilet paper & wet wipes
☐ Camp stove
☐ Flashlight/headlamp
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
☐ Passport or Green Card
☐ Driver’s License
☐ Mexican auto insurance. I insure mine with Baja Bound (not sponsored, I just like their service)
☐ Vehicle registration card
☐ FMM tourist card
☐ Written list of Emergency contacts
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
I am fully bilingual, but if you don’t speak Spanish, I would highly recommend that you at least learn basic Spanish phrases.
Here’s a good YouTube Video to get you started!
Vehicle Prep Guide for Baja Adventures
Your car or van is your lifeline in Baja. Whether you’re traveling along the coast or heading deep inland, it needs to be road—and dirt-road—ready.
Here’s what I check before every trip:
☐ Tire pressure + tread (including the spare tire!)
☐ Brake pads + fluid level
☐ Coolant & transmission fluid
☐ Check for leaks under the car
☐ Check the 4WD system (in case you have one which is by the way, highly recommended if you’re going to go deep into remmote places)
☐ Check battery health
NOTE:
If you want to see a full list of all the gear I carry, head on to my PRODUCTS PAGE. I personally purchased and tested every item mentioned below—none were gifted or sponsored. I am not an Amazon Associate and do not earn commissions from any links.
Happy and Safe Travels!
