McAllen, Texas, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for McAllen, Texas, United States of America? If you're planning to go to McAllen, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to McAllen
- Important essentials for McAllen
- Activities for McAllen
- McAllen in January: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in February: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in March: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in April: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in May: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in June: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in July: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in August: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in September: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in October: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in November: weather and what to pack
- McAllen in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to McAllen, Texas, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in McAllen, Texas, United States of America, the best time to go is November. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for McAllen, Texas, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in McAllen, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for McAllen, Texas, United States of America by month
January
If you visit McAllen during January, you will probably find that it is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light skirts
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
February
If you go to McAllen in February, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Light skirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
March
Traveling to McAllen in March, you will notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
April
April in this region is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
May
If you visit McAllen during May, you are likely to notice that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
June
June for McAllen is unbearably hot. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to cool you and offer UV protection.
Sun protecting pants
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
- this
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed to help you stay cool:
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget pack extra, since these get wet or dirty.
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
July
Traveling to McAllen in July, you will notice that it is scorchingly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should pack extra, since these get wet or dirty.
Insulated water bottle
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Skirts
- this
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to cool you and offer UV protection.
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
August
If you go to McAllen in August, you will notice that it is sweltering. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (high 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered for cooling:
UV protecting pants
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should bring extra, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Insulated water bottle
- this
Skirts
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to help you stay cool and include UV protection.
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
September
September in this region can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget pack additional, since these easily get wet or dirty.
- this
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered for cooling and include UV protection.
Skirts
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed for cooling:
Sunglasses
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
October
October in this region is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Skirts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
November
If you visit McAllen during November, you are likely to find that it is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
December
If you vacation in McAllen during December, you might find that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in McAllen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
If you visit the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
What to do in McAllen, Texas, United States of America
McAllen, Texas is a city that won’t disappoint with its diverse range of tourist attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in art, history, nature or simply enjoying some outdoor activities, McAllen has something for everyone. Here are some must-see tourist attractions worth visiting in McAllen, Texas:
1. International Museum of Art & Science
The International Museum of Art & Science is a unique and fascinating museum that provides visitors with an immersive experience of science, art, and culture. It features over 50,000 square feet of exhibition space that houses a science and technology exhibit, a fine arts gallery, and a replica of a prehistoric cave. Visitors can also enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden, picnic area, and various interactive learning opportunities for kids.
2. Quinta Mazatlan
If you enjoy the great outdoors, don’t miss out on visiting Quinta Mazatlan. This urban sanctuary features over 15 acres of bird-watching trails and native vegetation. It’s home to over 240 bird species of which the most famous is the Green Jay. There are also guided tours as well as educational programs offered here.
3. The Museum of South Texas History
The Museum of South Texas History is a must-see for history buffs. This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, with exhibits that include prehistoric fossils, Native American, and colonial artifacts, as well as historic photographs and maps. It’s a great place for the whole family to learn about the intriguing past of South Texas.
4. McAllen Nature Center
The McAllen Nature Center is another standout nature preserve that’s situated on 33-acres and offers miles of trails to hike and explore. You can walk along the trails that pass through the palm forest, butterfly garden, and resaca, which is a natural branch of the Rio Grande River. The center also hosts educational programs throughout the year for both adults and children.
5. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
For more outdoor adventure, Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is a great place to escape the city and experience nature at its best. The park is a birdwatchers' paradise with more than 340 bird species seen, as well as a haven for other wildlife like butterflies, lizards, and rabbits. There is also camping, hiking, and cycling trails within the park.
6. McAllen Performing Arts Center
The McAllen Performing Arts Center showcases some of the best local, national, and international talent from the world of theatre, dance, and music. It’s a great venue to catch a concert, live performance or a play. The center also offers educational programming and youth shows for families and children.
7. South Texas College Mid-Valley Campus Art Gallery
Art lovers should check out the South Texas College Mid-Valley Campus Art Gallery. It features an eclectic mix of exhibits that include painting, sculpture, and photography from local artists as well as art professors and students from the campus. Admission to the gallery is free, making it accessible to everyone.
In conclusion, McAllen, Texas is home to some of the most fascinating and diverse tourist attractions in the United States. Visitors can enjoy a blend of history, science, nature, and art, and indulge in some of the best outdoor activities. Although, these are just a handful of the many places to visit in McAllen, Texas as there are more museums, parks, and attractions that await any traveler willing to plunge into this city’s many charms.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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