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Cancun packing list: Essentials and ultimate travel tips
Ready to trade in your winter coat for a swimsuit? Cancun is calling, and it’s time to start packing for your trip. Get a complete overview of what you need to pack from our Cancun travel ambassador, Olly Keell.
Cancun is one of my favorite vacation destinations. I spent an entire summer there a few years ago and fell in love with everything it has to offer. Since then, I’ve made it a point to visit at least once a year.
Below, I’ll go over what to pack for Cancun to help you prepare for one of the most exciting places to visit on this side of the globe. I’ll also share tips and lessons I’ve learned along the way.
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Cancun trip checklist
In a hurry? Grab this printable packing checklist and get packing for Cancun.
What to know before going to Cancun
Most people visit the northeastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula for its hot Mexican sun, postcard pools, and stunning white-sand beaches with turquoise waters that’ll rival postcards.
However, there is a world of other things to do in Cancun, from museum hopping to day trips visiting ancient Mayan archaeological sites to getting lost in an open-air market full of jewelry and craft stalls. Of course, you’ll need to ensure you’re packing appropriately for it all!
Without further ado, let’s get into what you should know when putting together your Cancun trip checklist.
Important documents to fill out
There are a few important documents you’ll need to fill out for your upcoming trip to Mexico.
This will look different depending on which part of the world you’re flying from and your nationality, however, here are some common important documents to consider.
- Customs declaration form
Before arriving in Mexico, you’ll need to complete a customs declaration form.
This form collects information about the items you’re bringing into the country. It’s essential to be honest and accurate to avoid any issues upon arrival.
You can typically fill out the form online or at the airport. Be prepared to declare any valuable items too.
- FMM
The FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple or Multiple Migratory Form) is essentially a tourist card required for most visitors to Mexico. It allows you to stay in the country for a maximum of 180 days.
You have two options to obtain your FMM:
- Online: Complete the electronic FMM (FMME Aérea) before your trip on the Mexican government website. This option is faster and more convenient.
- Upon arrival: Fill out a paper FMM at the immigration counter when you land in Mexico. This option can be time-consuming — especially during peak travel periods — but allows you to ask an official any questions you may have about the length of your stay.
Mexican currency
Mexican Peso is the official currency of Mexico, and your spending companion on this trip. To avoid any surprises, I’ve found it wise to exchange some cash before your trip.
While many places, especially tourist hotspots, accept US dollars, having pesos on hand is more convenient and will help you skip unfair exchange rates.
Olly’s top tip: Check if your home bank partners with any Mexican banks, as this may mean lower withdrawal fees.
Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $20 and $190 MXN ($1 to $9.50 USD) to withdraw cash from an ATM.
Official language
Spanish is the official language of Mexico. It’s widely spoken throughout the country and is the language you’ll primarily encounter, although many people speak English as a second language.
While there are other indigenous languages recognized by the government, Spanish remains the dominant language in business, tourism, and everyday life.
A little Spanish will go a long way, so get on that Duolingo app if you haven’t already.
Safety measures
Cancun is generally considered to be a safe travel destination. You don’t need to do anything out of the ordinary to stay safe, other than staying up-to-date with travel health regulations, choosing well-known safe-to-visit areas, and not being reckless with your belongings.
That’s everything you need to know before you start packing, let’s get into what you actually need to pack for your trip.
What to pack for Cancun
Now that we’ve done our due diligence on what we needed to know before hitting the Cancun sands, it’s time to focus on packing for your trip.
Let’s dive into what to bring to Cancun for a perfect beach getaway.
Travel documents
Before you start packing your suitcase, ensure you have all the necessary documents.
- Your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your return date) is essential.
- Don’t forget the FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple), a required entry permit.
- Travel insurance to be protected in case of an emergency.
While travel insurance isn’t obligatory, it’s definitely recommended and can provide peace of mind during your travels. Also, check whether you require a visa to enter Mexico.
While there are 68 countries that don’t require a visa, there are a whole lot of countries that do.
Make sure you’ve got all the right documentation to avoid being turned away at the door.
Clothing
Ah, paradise. Sand between your toes, the sound of the waves, and that feeling of baking in the hot Mexican sun. Now you’ll need a wardrobe to match.
You’ll want to pack:
- Breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, rayon)
- Bathing suit
- Other swimwear pieces
- Lightweight cover-ups
- Sun hat
- Tee shirts
- Tank tops
- Shorts
- Sundresses
- Sandals and trainers
Olly’s packing tip: If you aren’t using packing cubes to travel, buy them and thank me later! They are essential to keeping your carry on or suitcase from turning into complete chaos halfway through your trip.
Electronics
You’ll want to capture every moment of your Cancun adventure with your camera or smartphone.
You’ll also want to keep your devices juiced up with a power bank and enjoy your favorite tunes with headphones or a small travel speaker.
Don’t forget to pack the right adapters to keep your tech running smoothly. Mexico uses primarily two plug types:
- Type A (two flat parallel pins)
- Type B (two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin). While Type A is more common, having an adapter that fits both types is a safe bet.
If you’re planning to go full-on selfie mode (who isn’t in Cancun?), make sure you’re connected with a Mexican eSIM for uninterrupted Instagrammable moments.
Beach gear
To make the most of Cancun’s stunning beaches, you’ll want to pack these beach vacation essentials:
- Shades: protect your eyes from the strong Cancun sun.
- Beach towels: most hotels provide these, but Airbnb may not.
- Bluetooth speaker: set the mood for your tanning and relaxation.
- A hat: a wide-brimmed hat provides extra sun protection and just looks fab.
- A waterproof phone case: the water is idyllic and you’ll want to capture its beauty without worrying about getting your phone wet.
- Hydration tablets and a thermal water bottle: it will be hot, so stay hydrated and consider getting some bottled water and hydration tablets at the airport.
- Snorkel gear: a mask, snorkel, fins, and a waterproof bag are your ticket to an unforgettable aquatic adventure. Some beach spots rent these if you’re looking to save space!
- Power bank: make sure you bring a portable phone charger that you can bring to the beach. This will save you from wasting your vacation time on charging your phone in your hotel room.
Toiletries
Don’t dampen your holiday vibes by forgetting what makes you feel good. Pack your skincare essentials, including sunscreen, moisturizer, and lip balm.
Hair care products like shampoo, conditioner, and your favorite brush are also must-haves. I also highly recommend some aloe vera-based face masks for after those long days in the sun.
And, of course, don’t forget your toothbrush and other bathroom basics like deodorant and body lotion.
Many hotels provide basic things like shower gel, soap, a shower cap, and everyday towels, but you might want to check with your accommodation first!
You’ve got your bathing suits, cover-ups, and even a fancy hat. With your tech essentials charged and ready, and the perfect accessories to match, you’re now well-prepared for your Cancun adventure.
Let’s dive into some packing tips to make your trip even smoother.
Top tips for your Cancun packing list
Before you zip up your suitcase and take your pre-flight selfie, here are a few keys to a smooth and worry-free Cancun getaway.
Check the weather forecast
Although Cancun is warm all year round, it’s important to check the weather forecast before getting there. Here are a few seasons to keep in mind:
- Peak Season (December to April): this is the driest and sunniest period, with average temperatures hovering around 82°F (28°C)
- Wet Season (May to June and September to November): temperatures remain warm, but the humidity increases and there’s a chance of the occasional rainy day here or there
Bring comfortable footwear!
Pack a versatile mix of footwear for your Cancun adventure. Flip-flops or sandals are perfect for the beach, but they won’t get you around on those out-of-hotel adventures.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring, and a dressier pair of sandals or flats will complete your look for nights out and ensure you’re prepared for every dress code.
Get an eSIM for unlimited internet access in Mexico
During your travels, you’ll likely want to keep your friends and family updated on your trip via social media and messaging.
To do this, you’ll need a strong, secure internet connection. Public WiFi and pocket dongles just won’t cut it — you need a surefire way to get online when you need to.
To ensure you’re always connected during your Cancun adventure, consider purchasing an eSIM. Holafly’s Cancun eSIM offers unlimited, flexible data plans without the need for a physical SIM.
You can put your eSIM to work in just three steps:
- Check if your smartphone is compatible (most newer smartphones are).
- Buy your prepaid eSIM for Cancun: Choose the number of days you need for your trip.
- Scan the QR code sent to your email and turn on data roaming from your settings on your new eSIM. You can then enjoy browsing the web as soon as you touch down in Cancun.
What not to bring to Cancun?
I want to close out by sharing some items I took on my trip that stayed in the suitcase. Don’t make the same mistake I did, maximize your luggage space, and bring back more souvenirs!
Excessive valuables
Leave your bling at home. While it’s tempting to bring your entire jewelry collection, it’s best to leave your most valuable possessions at home.
Not only will you avoid the risk of losing them, but you’ll also have less to worry about.
Heavy clothing
Cancun’s tropical climate means heavy clothing is unnecessary. Leave those bulky sweaters and jackets at home. Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics instead.
Unnecessary electronics
Unless you’re a tech wizard who needs a dozen devices to function, leave the extra gadgets at home. Your laptop, tablet, and that smart toaster oven can probably survive a week without you.
All you really need is your phone, charger, and a Bluetooth speaker or some earphones.
Restricted items
When flying to Mexico, as with any other flight, there are a few things in particular that are a no-no:
- Flammable liquids
- Food items that aren’t sealed up
- E-cigs or vapes
- Narcotics
- Live fish
- Firearms and ammunition
Plus anything else you’re not allowed to bring on a plane.
Wrapping up your ultimate Cancun packing list
While it’s tempting to pack your entire life into a suitcase (and maybe the kitchen sink for good measure), remember you’re only visiting the tropical playground, not moving in.
You’ve already nailed the wardrobe and essentials, so don’t sweat the small stuff. Just grab your passport, and a Cancun eSIM for constant connectivity and a sense of adventure.
Staying connected on your travels is about more than just keeping your social feeds up to date. It’s about reaching loved ones in a pinch, navigating through unknown cities, and ensuring you’re only ever a couple of clicks away from the information and support you need.
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Olly is a writer based in Manchester who grew up on the islands of the Bahamas on the smallest Island, Bimini. He discovered a great passion for writing while running an e-commerce store with his sister. He followed his passion and talent for writing and armed himself with a great understanding of SEO which led him to write for some amazing startups. When he’s not writing, he’ll often attend writers' meetups or travel to new places with his partner.
