Ultimate Cancun Packing List for 2024
Heading to Cancun for a vacation? As a Black woman, packing for Mexico comes with unique needs for hair care, skin protection, and more.
When the Mexican sun and humidity hits, you’ll want to ensure you’re prepared so your tropical getaway doesn’t become a bad hair day.
Start by thinking about protective hairstyles that shield your hair from the elements. Goddess braids, faux locs, and twist-outs are significant options that look fabulous and don’t require much upkeep while soaking up some fun in the sun.
Bring extra hair ties, bobby pins, leave-in conditioner, oils, and moisturizers to nourish your locks in that salty, humid air.
I’ve also put together some tips for what to wear in Cancún, plus must-have items to pack and what NOT to bring for your vacation to Cancun.
On my first trip to Mexico, I packed everything that wasn’t glued down. Although you might want to pack three pairs of cute wedges, I guarantee you they will never see the light of day!
This Cancun packing list will have everything you need, whether traveling to Cancun for spring break or simply looking for unique things to do in Cancun.
The only thing that matters when packing for Cancun is how many bathing suits you need.
I have traveled to Mexico City, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and Oaxaca, to name a few, and my Mexico packing list can be adapted to any of the Caribbean or Latin American destinations.
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I have created a list of all the things you need to bring on vacation – organized by category so you will not miss a thing.
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Packing List for Cancun
Generally speaking, when in Mexico, most of your days will be spent drinking cocktails at your resort’s swim-up bar!
I will provide helpful tips for packing for Cancun, examples of what to wear depending on the time of the year, day or night activities, and the weather in Cancun for your travel dates.
Now, let’s talk about the rest of that Cancun packing list. Here are some must-have items to include in your suitcase:
- Sunscreen is a must to protect your skin, especially formulas for darker skin tones.
- Light, breezy maxi dresses or kaftans to keep cool
- Swimsuits – don’t forget cute coverups
- Sandals – pack an extra comfortable pair for full days of walking around.
- Hat or visor to shield your face from the sun
- After-sun moisturizing lotion or aloe vera gel
- Lightweight sweater or cover-up for air-conditioned rooms or restaurants
- Travel insurance paperwork, valid passport, and medical cards
- Mosquito repellent
- Extra large beach bag to carry all your pool/beach gear
- Small crossbody bag for carrying daily essentials
- Travel-size toiletries – deodorant, face wash, etc.
- Makeup and jewelry – don’t forget waterproof mascara!
In addition to the Mexico packing list, I will provide safety tips to help you feel safer while traveling to Mexico.
Checklist for traveling to Cancun
I have broken this Cancun packing list into categories: Travel documents/cash, luggage, inflight essentials, clothes, shoes, toiletries, makeup, bags, gadgets, and accessories.
You must consider these four significant things when considering your packing list for Cancun.
- The time of year you are visiting and the weather
- How much walking you will do
- How much luggage do you need to take
- Your style
“MUST-PACK” ESSENTIALS BEFORE YOU DEPART FOR MEXICO
These items are the ones you absolutely must pack for your trip to Mexico
Passport – It is an excellent practice to have at least six months of validity on your passport. Make sure you make copies of your passport, take a picture of your passport, and store the image on your phone.
Visa(s) – Ensure you have read and understood the visa requirements for your nationality. 3-month (90 days) visitor visas are issued on arrival to nationals of the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Insurance – do not forget to organize insurance for your trip. It’s one of those things you probably won’t use but is essential if something goes wrong on your travels, like when I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic, which was the one time I didn’t purchase insurance. Lesson learned!
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Money — I recommend bringing two credit cards (one to use, and one to keep as a backup), and your debit card.
Make sure you use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees. I personally use American Express because of the points and no transaction fees. For the life of GAWD, do not exchange money at the airport.
I suggest withdrawing money from an ATM once you get there, or you can purchase Pesos at your bank if it makes you feel more comfortable.
Best Luggage Brands
With so many choices today, deciding between the best luggage brands can be challenging. Identifying the best luggage depends on your taste and style.
When deciding which luggage brands best suit your needs – interior space, size, and airlines’ requirements are just a few things you should look for in a piece of luggage.
Feilario Aluminium Frame Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Bric’s X Travel Carry-on Spinner, Laptop Backpack, Tory Burch Backpack: These items are perfect for a trip to Mexico thanks to their size and material.
You can also pack a few souvenirs without feeling like your luggage is about to burst at the seams.
The Personal Items
If you’re wondering what to pack for Cancun for hanging out at the beach, I suggest these sturdy daypacks and beach bags for going to the beach, taking day trips, and hiking.
You should be able to fit everything you need in one water-resistant and sturdy backpack.
In-Flight Essentials
- Bang & Olufsen Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones and Airplane Adapter: These are a great pair of affordable yet durable headphones for the airplane.
- Travel Pillow.
- Sleeping Mask.
- A pair of socks.
- Ipad
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
Clothing Essentials
When packing for Cancun, lightweight clothing should be a top priority. The weather in the area is tropical, so make sure to opt for breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen.
Choose items you can mix and match, such as loose-fitting shorts and tanks, to ensure you have a variety of outfits to wear throughout your trip.
If you’re going out at night, bring a few dressier items, like light sundresses or maxi dresses, that you can pair with sandals. Remember, layering is critical when planning an outfit for the hot and humid temperatures.
Sarongs are a great addition to any packing list for Cancun. They are lightweight, easy to pack, and versatile.
Sarongs can be used in various ways, such as a dress, skirt, shawl, wrap, or beach towel. They can also be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
For a night out, you can use a sarong as a stylish evening wrap, or for a day at the beach, you can use it as a beach towel. Sarongs are also perfect for covering up from the beach to town.
Shorts are a must-have for any packing list for Cancun. Not only will they keep you cool in the hot weather, but they’re also perfect for swimming, sightseeing, and any other activities you may find yourself doing while on vacation.
Be sure to pack a few pairs of comfortable and stylish shorts. Choose various colors, patterns, and lengths to mix and match throughout your trip.
A tank top is an essential item for your packing list for Cancun. Tank tops are comfortable, stylish, and perfect for the hot weather.
They can be paired with shorts, skirts, or jeans, depending on your preference. Look for lightweight cotton or linen fabrics to keep you cool and look fashionable.
A few colorful tank tops can add a pop of color to any outfit and make it easy to accessorize. Bring several different colors and patterns to ensure you always have something new to wear!
I suggest wearing shorts, tank tops, long sundresses, and maybe a cute skirt:
- 3 Basic Tank Tops
- 3 Basic T-Shirts
- 2 Maxi Dress
- 3 Blouses Nice Dress up blouses for dinner
- 4 Pairs of Panties — You can wash out easily.
- 2 Yoga Pants — hiking or lounging around.
- 3 Swimsuit — Every girl needs multiple bathing suits
- 1 travel wrap — Double as a wrap for restaurants because it’s always cool
What To Pack For Cancun: Shoes
A good pair of sneakers is a must for a Cancun packing list. With plenty of activities available around the area, having a solid pair of shoes that provide good support and comfort will ensure you have the energy to take on all the city’s adventures.
Whether exploring the Mayan ruins or at the beach, your sneakers will get you through it all.
Don’t forget to bring water shoes in case you get caught in the rain or go snorkeling!
Flip flops are a must-have item for your packing list for Cancun. They are essential for any beach vacation, and you’ll be glad you have them when you’re walking on the hot sand or need something to slip on quickly to go out.
Look for a comfortable pair of flip-flops that lasts your entire trip.
Avoid the cheap ones that may break after a few wears. Also, pack a backup pair in case your main ones break.
I also suggest leaving your heels and wedges at home because they will be brutal to your feet.
- Tory Burch Napa Leather Sandal: Great for dinner or casually strolling through Mexican towns
- Women’s Gazelle sneakers: Comfortable sneakers are a must if you’re packing for a trip to Mexico. Between snorkeling and hiking, you’ll need a sturdy and comfortable pair.
- Calvin Klein Ballet Flats: These casual yet stylish ballet flats will do the trick for dinner or a night out on the town.
- Tory Burch Espadrilles: Pack your favorite pair of flip-flops for the beach.
- New Balance Sneaker: These breathable sneakers are great for any excursions on your itinerary and days when you’ll be walking a lot.
Packing for the Beach in Cancun
When packing for a trip to Cancun, don’t forget to bring a beach bag! This is essential for lugging around all your necessary items and returning them to your hotel from the beach.
Look for one that’s roomy enough to fit your bathing suit, sunblock, sunglasses, hat, flip-flops, and anything else you need for your day in the sun.
Make sure it has straps to be worn as a backpack and is made from water-resistant material to keep your belongings dry.
With a great beach bag, you’ll be ready to hit the beach and enjoy the beautiful Cancun sunshine.
The beaches in Mexico are very crowded, so make sure you have all of your beach needs when packing for Mexico.
Swimsuit
No packing list for Cancun is complete without a bathing suit. Whether you plan to spend your days relaxing by the pool, swimming in the ocean, or enjoying water sports, you’ll want to be sure you have the perfect swimsuit for all your activities.
Choose a style that makes you feel comfortable and confident to make the most of your vacation.
Make sure to bring several options, depending on your itinerary, so you’re prepared for any situation.
Hat
A hat is an essential part of any packing list for Cancun. The sun in Cancun is solid and relentless, so a hat is one of the best ways to protect your head and face.
Choose a lightweight hat with a wide brim that will provide plenty of coverage and ventilation.
Look for hats made from breathable materials such as linen or cotton to stay cool even on the hottest days. A fashionable straw hat is also a great way to accessorize your beach look.
Sunglasses
No Cancun packing list would be complete without sunglasses. The sun’s rays in Mexico can be intense, and wearing a pair of quality shades is essential for protecting your eyes from UV damage.
Look for sunglasses with polarized lenses blocking UV light and reducing glare, making it easier to enjoy activities like swimming and boating.
Ensure the frames are comfortable and won’t slip off while you’re having fun in the sun. You’ll be ready to explore all Cancun offers with the right pair of sunglasses.
Water Shoes
The beaches on the coast can have a ton of rocks and coral, so make sure you pack a pair of slip-on mesh beach shoes that will protect your feet if they are sensitive.
These shoes come in various fantastic colors – click here for more information.
Beach Towels
I recommend packing a light beach towel that will not take up lots of space and one that dries fast. Check out this cute and chic beach towel.
Snorkel Set
My husband loves to go snorkeling, and if you are on the coast, the Grottos are a must, so don’t forget you will need a good quality snorkel kit.
We have our own and pack our luggage perfectly. Check out these bestseller snorkel sets from Amazon here.
Floating Device
Who doesn’t want to be Instagram famous? Bring along one of these super cute gold Pegasus Float. Check out this one from Amazon here.
Beach Bag
You will need a beach bag in to put all your sunscreen, shades, beach towels, and other items. Check out the KEHO Canvas Beach Bag here.
Drone
If you’re heading to Mexico, you will want a drone to take those epic beach shots. Click here to check out the DJI 3 on Amazon.
Waterproof Phone Pouch
iPhones take excellent videos and photos; if you don’t want to spend money on a GoPro, just use your mobile phone. Check out this best-seller phone pouch here.
- Mosquito-Repellent Bracelet: Cancun has mosquitos, so you will need a repellent – Avoid chemicals and the smell of DEET bug spray by wearing a bracelet.
- Good Vibes Only Sun Kit: Sunscreen, after-sun lotion, lip balm, and face sunscreen all in one convenient, travel-sized kit. If you travel to Mexico in the summer, please remember the sun is brutal!
- Hand Sanitizer: I am not a germaphobe, but I prefer not to be sick while traveling, so please use hand sanitizer as often as possible.
Makeup Essentials For Mexico
- Moisturiser
- Foundation
- Eye Pencil
- Blush/bronzer
- Makeup brushes
- Lipstick/gloss
- Face Cleanser
- Hairstyling products
- Hairbrush/comb
- Hairbands
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste/floss
- Feminine hygiene products
- Nail file/scissors
Must Pack Gadgets
- GoPro Hero 7: This camera is excellent to take on your travels, as it’s small and durable and allows you to capture pictures and videos of your entire journey, both in the water and out.
- Anker Portable Phone Charger: Pack a portable charger to keep your phone charged after taking all those fantastic Italy Instagramable photos.
- Selfie Stick with Tripod: For what to pack for Mexico for your phone, you should make sure you have a selfie stick with a tripod to take all those awesome selfies.
Don’t Forget Your Medications:
- Pain Relief: Do you know what works best for you? Bring your favorite products from home for headaches and joint and muscle pain.
- Constipation Relief: Traveler’s constipation is real and you don’t want to be uncomfortable while on vacation.
- Sea-Bands & Non-Drowsy Dramamine — If you’re prone to motion sickness, I strongly recommend adding Sea-Bands to your Mexico packing list, especially if you are taking excursions to see the Arch or a day trip to Tulum.
What To Leave at Home:
I cannot pack for two weeks in a carry-on, but after years of traveling, I have learned to leave some things behind.
Leave items you will probably not use will be extra heavy or can be found easily at your destination.
- Valuables: Leave anything flashy at home to avoid being a pickpocket target.
- Full-sized shampoo and conditioner – too heavy, take up too much room, and will weigh your luggage down.
- Guidebooks – You don’t need to walk around with a guidebook in your hand. Read them before you go or download the Lonely Planet Mexico Travel Guide ebook.
- Hairdryer – most hotels provide hairdryers
- Books– I am on the fence about books because I am old school and I love to hold books or magazines in my hand but some are extremely heavy so you can invest in a Kindle or download the books to your iPad or phone.
Best Travel Apps
If you are like every other person in the world your phone will be in your hand at all times so here are a few must-have travel apps while you are exploring Mexico:
- Uber (iOS | – Yes, Ubers are safe in Mexico.
- Babbel (iOS | – I suggest learning a few key phrases, but if you still need help, Babbel will help you learn Spanish words, vocabulary, and grammar.
- Google Translate (iOS | – Use Google Translate to help you understand signs, menus, and conversations you can’t quite understand.
The Weather In Cancun
Always, always check the weather forecast a week before your trip to see what is in store when planning what to pack for Mexico.
Nothing will ruin your trip quicker than not being prepared for rain or the blistering heat of Mexico.
After you have researched the weather, you can begin to focus on creating an Instagram-worthy travel wardrobe that will fit easily in your suitcase.
I suggest using packing cubes to store outfits by the day of the week.
Safety Tips While Traveling to Cancun
Ensure you take extra precautions while traveling to certain parts of Mexico because pickpockets and petty crime are high in certain regions.
Professional thieves can pick tourists out in their sleep.
I wasn’t a big fan of Fanny packs initially, but they are starting to grow on me, so fanny packs and travel scarfs are an option to keep your money and credit cards safe.
Keep important documents like passports, visas, money, and credit cards in a money belt, or try an anti-theft diversion kit.
Keep thieves at bay with hairbrushes, deodorant, coke cans, or other items that look real! Check out my entire list of diversion safety items on Amazon.
In addition to all these physical items, bring an open heart & mind, patience, a balanced sense of humor, and an adventurous spirit!
Conclusion of Cancun Packing List
Remember that bad things can happen anywhere, not just in Mexico, but I am sure crimes occur right in your neighborhood.
No matter where you go in Mexico, follow the common-sense rules listed above, like drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your expensive watches and rings at home.
Ready to plan your trip? Grab my FREE Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
ADDITIONAL ARTICLES
Best board-certified Plastic Surgeons in Mexico
Do you struggle with what to pack for Cancun? I hope my packing list for Cancun has prepared you for your next vacation. I would love to hear your thoughts, so comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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Though I’ve never been to mexico this is a good read, if ever i travel there i know what and how to what to pack. Thanks for sharing.
You have covered it all sis! I’m not traveling any time soon but when I do, this will be my go to resource!
Yes to the portable clothes line. Whenever I travel I like to wash clothes because it helps me to cut down on the things that I pack. But I never thought to take a clothesline. Thanks for the suggestion.
This is a great list! I have never been to Mexico but I would definitely use this list if I planned to! I love the Tory Burch bags!
Perfect travel packing essentials guilds for Mexico. I just got back from Mexico from a 1 1/2 month trip away and I had lots of these items on your list.