What to pack for a trip to Cancun Mexico

Last Updated on August 22, 2020 by Megan

Cancun Packing Essentials

Pack smart to get your vacation off to a great start. We’re sure you’ve got the packing thing down by now, but just in case, here are some Cancun-specific packing items you’ll want to bring along.

More than one swimsuit

If you're anywhere near the beach or if your hotel has a pool, chances are, you're going to be in the water a lot. Cancun's humidity (particularly in the summer months) packs a punch, especially if you'll be close to the waterfront. It might take a lot longer for wet fabric to dry than you're used to, so if you don't like getting into an already-wet swimsuit, pack extras.

Biodegradable Sunscreen

Cancun is sunny, and you should apply sunscreen frequently to avoid burning. Some resorts will provide sunscreen along with other room amenities, but if not, convenience stores and hotel stores stock sunscreen in abundance. Make sure that your sunscreen is biodegradable, as non-biodegradable sunscreens (typically found in US markets) contain chemicals harmful to coral and other marine life.

Wide-brimmed Hat and Sunglasses

Again—Cancun is SUNNY, and the white sand and water multiply those dangerous UV rays when you're at the beach. For your skin and for your sight, bring a hat and sunglasses.

Plastic Bags

Not only a good idea for keeping yourself organized, plastic bags can be lifesavers when repacking all your swim stuff that's still wet and sandy into a suitcase.

Ear Plugs

A vacation isn't really a vacation if you're stressed about getting enough sleep. In Cancun, you never know what event, party, or late-night pool chat will be happening right outside your window—or when it will end. Keep the sun out of your eyes with heavy drapes, and keep the sound out of your ears with plugs.

Tums

It's always a good idea to be prepared! While the food in the Hotel Zone and at the resorts is prepared with foreign palates in mind, a local café's burrito or taco shop salsa could deliver more heat than you bargained for.

Battery-powered phone charger.

If you're out and about all day using your phone to make calls, navigate the streets, and take photos, your battery will lose juice quickly. Don't get stuck in the middle of your journey—bring some back-up power.

Medication

Pack extra prescription medication so you don’t run out during the trip. While there are many local pharmacies that operate under looser prescription regulations, it’s better to trust the medication you bring with you.

International SIM Card

If you'll be using a phone at all, make sure you know what's included in your phone and data plan . Many cell phone plans now offer International roaming, but be aware of the charges for calls, and especially data roaming! If international data (or roaming) isn't available, or is expensive, consider buying a pre-loaded SIM card to switch out during your trip. These can be purchased before your trip, or even at the airport or around town when you arrive.

Smart Clothing

Bring summer clothes like shorts and tank-tops, or breathable garments made of cotton and linens. Another thing to keep in mind: if you're booking a stay at an all-inclusive resort, some higher-end restaurants on the property may require you follow a semi-formal dress code to dine (e.g. "men must wear close-toed shoes and slacks, no jeans allowed," etc). So bring some nicer clothes and make sure you'll be able to enjoy all you've paid for.

Comfortable Shoes

If you’re planning on visiting ruins or taking any other type of water, jungle, or cave ***excursion, you’ll be doing a decent amount of walking. Along with flip-flops, bring a pair of shoes that won't come off your feet (or give you bad blisters) after a day of exploring.