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Home » Mexico & Caribbean » Mexico

What to Pack for Cancun

Updated Jun 2, 2022 · This post may contain affiliate links.

cancun packing list
cancun packing list
cancun packing list

Cancun is a vibrant city in southeast Mexico and a significant tourist attraction. With a ton of beaches, water sports, shops, restaurants, and nightlife, Cancun is amazing! However, to have the maximum fun and enjoyment, there are a few things you need to make sure to pack for Cancun.

Cancun is full of sunshine, heat, water, and exploration. These are all factors to think of while you're packing. If you're planning on exploring the shops and markets, you will need to pack clothing and good walking shoes. If you're planning on hanging out at the beach, you will need to pack swimsuits and water shoes.

Packing for Cancun can seem overwhelming, but following this list will make sure you've thought of everything. Here are the top 11 things you need to pack for Cancun.

What to Pack for Cancun

Sunglasses

The sun is hot and shines bright in Cancun, so packing sunglasses is a must!

Image for Costa Del Mar Women's Waterwoman 2 Round Sunglasses, Shiny Wahoo/Grey Polarized 580G, 58 mm

Costa Del Mar Women's Waterwoman 2 Round Sunglasses, Shiny Wahoo/Grey Polarized 580G, 58 mm

Bring some sunglasses that will be comfortable for long wearing and that you feel great in.

Image for Ray-Ban Women's RB4171 Erika Round Sunglasses, Rubber Blue/Grey Gradient, 54 mm

Ray-Ban Women's RB4171 Erika Round Sunglasses, Rubber Blue/Grey Gradient, 54 mm

Invest in some durable sunglasses that won’t break if you drop them here and there. Also, make sure to get the right size for the bridge of your nose.

Image for Flexible Polarized Kids Sunglasses for Boys Girls 3-8 Years 100% UV Protection (Pink)

Flexible Polarized Kids Sunglasses for Boys Girls 3-8 Years 100% UV Protection (Pink)

Everyone's eyes should be protected. Don’t forget to grab some sunglasses for your littles as well!

Water Bottle

Carrying a water bottle with you almost guarantees that you’ll drink more. Staying hydrated is key to maintaining good health.

Image for Philips Water GoZero Active Bottle with One Fitness Filter, Squeeze Hydration Bottle, Filtering Water Bottle, Reducing Chlorine, BPA-Free, 20 oz, Red

Philips Water GoZero Active Bottle with One Fitness Filter, Squeeze Hydration Bottle, Filtering Water Bottle, Reducing Chlorine, BPA-Free, 20 oz, Red

Opt for a waterbottle that is made from a durable material and that you like the design of.

Image for LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle with 2-Stage Integrated Filter Straw for Hiking, Backpacking, and Travel, Blue (LSGOV2CR45)

LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle with 2-Stage Integrated Filter Straw for Hiking, Backpacking, and Travel, Blue (LSGOV2CR45)

A water bottle with a filter can help eliminate some toxins that may be in water.

Sun Hat

You’re going to want a hat that offers SPF protection for your head.

Image for Womens Sun Straw Hat Wide Brim UPF 50 Summer Hat Foldable Roll up Floppy Beach Hats for Women

Womens Sun Straw Hat Wide Brim UPF 50 Summer Hat Foldable Roll up Floppy Beach Hats for Women

Opt for something that gives shade to your face, as well.

Image for Roxy Womens Beautiful Morning Trucker Hat, Mood Indigo Happy Day YW, One Size US

Roxy Womens Beautiful Morning Trucker Hat, Mood Indigo Happy Day YW, One Size US

If a sun hat isn’t for you, look at baseball caps or trucker caps. You’re going to want a hat that you love and feel great in, because that’s how you know you’ll wear it.

Travel Toiletries

Make travel easier on yourself and pack your own hygeine products. Travel-sized products are cute and will make your life much easier.

Image for Convenience Kits International Women’s Premium 21-Piece Kit with Travel Size TSA Compliant Essentials, Featuring: L'Oreal Paris Hair Products in Stylish Cosmetic Bag

Convenience Kits International Women’s Premium 21-Piece Kit with Travel Size TSA Compliant Essentials, Featuring: L'Oreal Paris Hair Products in Stylish Cosmetic Bag

You could also opt for bringing a large pack of travel toiletries—then you don’t have to pack anything else. 

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses are a must any time it’s hot and sunny! They are a staple for your wardrobe in order to keep cool and comfortable.

Image for PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Casual Halter Neck Sleeveless Floral Long Maxi Dress Backless Loose Ruffle Sundress with Belt Green

PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Casual Halter Neck Sleeveless Floral Long Maxi Dress Backless Loose Ruffle Sundress with Belt Green

Experiment with different styles, colors, and patterns of maxi dresses.

Image for ZESICA Women's Summer Bohemian Floral Printed Strapless Beach Party Long Maxi Dress Blue

ZESICA Women's Summer Bohemian Floral Printed Strapless Beach Party Long Maxi Dress Blue

Something strapless is perfect for the beach. Pay attention to the material, as you want to stay cool and—most importantly—comfortable. 

Packing Cubes

Maximise your packing space and stay organized with packing cubes.

Image for OEE Luggage Packing Organizers Packing Cubes Set for Travel …

OEE Luggage Packing Organizers Packing Cubes Set for Travel …

Think of how many packing cubes you require, along with other options like make-up bags, toiletry bags, and dirty laundry bags. Options like this set can help you to stay organized even during your stay.

Leave-In Hair Conditioner

WIthout proper care, the sun can dry out and damage your hair. Don’t come back from your amazing trip with dried out hair!

Image for AVEDA Sun Care Protective Hair Veil 

AVEDA Sun Care Protective Hair Veil 

You'll want to bring something to protect your hair from the sun's damaging rays, without giving it a greasy look.

Straw Tote

Whether you need a bag for exploring the local shops or a tote for the beach, opt for one made of straw.

Image for YXILEE Summer Beach bag,Handmade Large Straw Tote Bag Womens Handbag (Khaki)

YXILEE Summer Beach bag,Handmade Large Straw Tote Bag Womens Handbag (Khaki)

The neutral color of this bag helps it go with anything and stay super trendy.

Image for Handwoven Round Rattan Bag Shoulder Leather Straps Natural Chic Hand NATURAL NEO

Handwoven Round Rattan Bag Shoulder Leather Straps Natural Chic Hand NATURAL NEO

Something small and round would be great to hold your phone and wallet for going exploring.

Image for Solyinne Straw Beach Bag Large Woven Straw Bag Handbag Women's Woven Tote Bag Summer Beach Tote with Tassel for Travel

Solyinne Straw Beach Bag Large Woven Straw Bag Handbag Women's Woven Tote Bag Summer Beach Tote with Tassel for Travel

If you’re planning to spend more time on the beach, go for a bag on the larger side. This bag will fit your towel, water bottle, speaker, and snacks!

Snorkel Gear

Bring your own snorkel gear and get ready to explore the warm blue water.

Image for U.S. Divers Lux Platinum Snorkel Set Compatible with GoPro - Panoramic View Mask, Pivot Fins, Dry Top Snorkel + Gear Bag, Pink S/M

U.S. Divers Lux Platinum Snorkel Set Compatible with GoPro - Panoramic View Mask, Pivot Fins, Dry Top Snorkel + Gear Bag, Pink S/M

Look for a scuba kit with all the required gear.

Image for xdobo Snorkeling Gear for Adults Snorkel Set Scuba Snorkel Mask + Foldable Diving Snorkel Tube + Adjustable Snorkeling Fins/Swimming Flippers Comes with Carry Bag and Waterproof Phone Bag (Blue, M)

xdobo Snorkeling Gear for Adults Snorkel Set Scuba Snorkel Mask + Foldable Diving Snorkel Tube + Adjustable Snorkeling Fins/Swimming Flippers Comes with Carry Bag and Waterproof Phone Bag (Blue, M)

This set has everything you'll need!

First Aid Kit

You can’t ever be too prepared, so having a small first aid kit on hand is ideal.

Image for Small Travel First Aid Kit - 87 Piece Clean, Treat and Protect Most Injuries,Ready for Emergency at Home, Outdoors, Car, Camping, Workplace, Hiking.

Small Travel First Aid Kit - 87 Piece Clean, Treat and Protect Most Injuries,Ready for Emergency at Home, Outdoors, Car, Camping, Workplace, Hiking.

With 100 pieces, this small first aid kit is perfect for your beach bag or purse. You'll want to bring a first aid kit that is small so you are able to carry it with you.

Get ready for the best time in Cancun when you pack these essentials. Pack light and smart, and you'll be sure to have an amazing time!

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  1. Seema says

    November 17, 2021 at 6:07 am

    Great tips. Planning to go to Cancun very soon and so bookmarked

    Reply
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