WONDERING WHAT TO TAKE TO CANCuN Mexico?
You’re in the right place, as this is the only Cancun packing list you need! In it, you’ll learn what to bring to Cancun, and also, what to leave at home.
As I’ve been living in Mexico and traveling all over the country since 2018, you might say I know a thing or two (or 22!) about packing for Mexico.
With countless trips using just a single suitcase, I’ve become a packing pro for all Mexican destinations, including the stunning beach town of Cancun.
🧳 Want a mexico packing list pdf?
Grab your FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico here so that you have all the best Mexico packing tips in one place.
As packing in general for any trip is stressful enough, let alone packing to visit another country, you might be overwhelmed (and rightfully so).
But don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! From lounging on the beach to exploring Cancun’s nightlife, let’s explore this Ultimate What to Bring to Cancun Packing List.
Your Ultimate Cancun Packing List
1. Mexico SIM Card
📲 TELCEL Prepaid SIM Card
While in some countries, you can get away with just using WiFi — for now, Mexico simply isn’t there, and you’ll want a TELCEL SIM card.
For those who won’t havefreecell phone service in Mexico, the easiest and most inexpensive way for your phone to work is to buy a prepaid SIM card.
TELCEL is the largest cell service provider in Mexico, so using this brand ensures you have the best reception in Cancun and the entire Yucatan Peninsula.
📲 What size Mexico SIM Card to buy
This will depend on how much data you plan to use. For those who plan to be on their phone minimally, go for this 2gb size or this 3gb card.
If you’re someone who would rather be safe rather than sorry, this 8gb size has more than enough, even if you’re watching videos and other high-data activities.
2. Reusable Water Bottle with a Built-In Filter
I personally use and trust these bottles — and I’ve partnered with the company to get you a discount on your bottles and filters.
Enjoy 15% OFF your entire Water-To-Go purchase with code SOLO15!
Wondering, Can you drink the water in Mexico? Or, Can you drink the water in Cancun specifically?
The answer is NO. Unfiltered Mexico tap water isn’t safe for human consumption, not for locals and not for visitors, and not anywhere in the country.
One of my Mexico travel essentials is this Water-To-Go Bottle, an amazing, reusable water bottle that I carry with me everywhere — and have for years!
Here’s all the reasons you’ll want to get a water bottle with built-in filter for Mexico:
🤑 You’ll save money not having to keep buying bottled water.
♻️ It eliminates single-use plastic waste from all those water bottles you won’t need to buy.
🥵 Cancun is hot and humid year-round, so you’ll need to drink lots of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
🤢 This reusable water bottle provides an added layer of Mexico water filtration — so you don’t get sick in Mexico.
🦠 The three-stage filter removes 99.999999% of bacteria, parasites, viruses, toxins, microplastics and more, according to their website.
3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Do your part to practice responsible travel in Cancun by using only eco-friendly sunscreen, like SunBum.
This Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Bug Spray Insect Repellent + Sunscreen (SPF 50) is also great because it has both sun protection and mosquito protection — from one of the best sustainable sunscreen brands for Mexico.
🩱 Alternative Option: Long-Sleeve Bathing Suit
Planning to visit the Cancun cenotes? Smart choice, as these are some of the top things to do in Cancun — but there’s something you must know.
What you must know is that sunscreen of any kind is prohibited in the cenotes, as the oils ruin this natural ecosystem (even eco sunscreens).
Do your part to keep the cenotes in Cancun gorgeous by using a long-sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard).
4. Hangover Meds
There are all kinds of yummy adult beverages and Mexico drinks you’re probably planning to sip poolside on your Cancun trip.
If you’re planning to go hard on the Margaritas, strawberry daiquiris, and piña coladas — DO NOT forget to pack hangover meds.
⭐️ This Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier has more than 100,000 positive reviews on Amazon, and is a best seller.
The antioxidants and homeopathic ingredients in Liquid I.V. make sure you’re not hungover the next day, and not missing out on a single second of your precious travel time.
5. Mexico Travel Insurance
Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times?
Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health on a trip.
After years of solo travel, I can say with certainty: Something will go wrong!
For this reason, I have a whole article dedicated to travel insurance, because it’s just that important.
If Cancun travel safety is on your mind, use the links below to get your FREE quote from two of the biggest names in travel insurance.
World Nomads: Ideal for general travel and adventure travelers
SafetyWing: Ideal for Mexico digital nomads and long-term travelers. I have been using this insurance myself since 2022.
6. Waterproof Fanny Pack Pouch
I’m obsessed with these waterproof pouch fanny packs for visiting the cenotes near Cancun, as well as all the best beaches in Cancun.
💦 Alternative Option: Waterproof Phone Holder
These waterproof phone holders are also great if you only plan to carry your phone, ID and some cash around while in Cancun Mexico.
7. Water Shoes
Having these water shoes in Cancun is a game-changer. Think of them as your trusty sidekicks, guarding you against everything from seaweed to rocky terrain.
Not only do they protect your feet from cuts and scrapes, but they also offer much-needed grip on slippery surfaces when you walk indoors with them.
8. Facial Oil Blotting Tissue
Located in the tropics, Cancun and the entire Yucatan Peninsula are a hot year-round 😥
Some locals even joke that Cancun has two climates: Hot and hotter, so you can expect to sweat (a lot).
These All-Natural Face Blotting Sheets with Bamboo are a quick way to dry sweat, make you feel refreshed, and look shine-free in an instant.
As someone who tends to sweat, I swear by these on any Cancun vacation.
9. Eco-Friendly Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are an issue in Cancun throughout the year, as it’s located in the jungle. You’ll definitely want (likely even need) mosquito repellent in Cancun.
This Cutter Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent 🍋
For DEET-Free Mosquito Repellent, this one spells pretty good — and I even got a compliment on the small once when I was wearing it.
🚫🦟 Alternative Option: Anti-Mosquito Bracelets
Not into the idea of using an insect spray (or any aerosol, for that matter)? Just want an added layer of protection against Cancun mosquitoes?
Opt for these mosquito-repelling bracelets to keep those pesky critters away without any scented sprays or creams.
10. External Battery (Power Bank)
When traveling to Cancun, you’ll need high battery-use apps, like a map app, to get help you get around safely.
Since you won’t always have access to an outlet to recharge it, don’t forget your external battery (AKA power bank, portable battery charger or portable charger).
11. Multi-Plug Outlet Extender
You never know how many outlets your accommodation will have — and you never know how far the nearest outlets will be.
For this reason, you’ll want to bring this PowerPort Cube with USB & 5-foot Extension Cord.
🔌 If you’re wondering, Mexico uses the same plugs as the U.S. and Canada. Coming from another country? You need Type A and Type B plugs for Mexico.
12. Noise-Canceling Ear Plugs
Mexico is a festive country — but this also makes it a loud country, especially in party towns like Cancun.
If you’re a light sleeper, or even a medium sleeper, you’ll want to pack these noise-cancelling ear plugs so you get a peaceful night’s sleep.
🎧 These noise canceling earbuds also work, and if you don’t already have wireless headphones, traveling is the perfect time to upgrade.
13. Your Passport
This one goes without saying, but don’t forget your valid passport or you won’t be able to travel to Mexico at all.
Legally, your passport must be valid for another six months after the date you land in Mexico — so if you’re traveling on January 1, your passport must be valid until July 1.
🎫 Optional: Copies of Your Passport
For many travelers, losing a passport is one of their worst travel fears — and as Cancun is a party town, you’ll want to be prepared in the event of that.
According to the U.S. State Department, about 300,000 Americans report a lost or stolen passport each year 😳 so here’s what you can do to prepare:
Have a few copies of your passport made; bring one of those with you and leave another with a trusted family member or friend back home.
14. Your Medications
You can easily get in meds at farmacias (Cancun pharmacies), so don’t pack the whole medicine cabinet — but don’t forget to take anything prescribed that you need.
Beyond prescriptions, you might want to bring headache, cramps, antidiarrheal, and stomach meds, like Tums or Pepto.
15. Your Debit Card
It’s smart to have two cards — one credit card and one debit card — but you will want to bring a card that gives you access to cash.
In Mexico, cash is king, and many places don’t even take credit cards, like taxis, street taco stands, mercado vendors at local markets, and more.
16. No-Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card
Did you know that many credit cards charge you to use them while outside of your home country?
This is called a foreign transaction fee, and it’s typically 2-3% of each transaction’s cost in U.S. dollars — and these can add up fast!
If you have a card that gives you travel points and rewards, that one likely offers no foreign transaction fees as a perk, but other cards might have associated fees.
Before you travel to Cancun, verify what fees (if any) your different cards have, and make sure to use the card(s) with the lowest fees while in Cancun.
17. Your Driver’s License
Planning on renting a car in Cancun? Then you’ll need your U.S. driver’s license to drive in Mexico, and also rent a car.
You can also use it as a valid ID anywhere you go in Mexico, so you can leave your passport back at your Cancun hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or all-inclusive resort.
What to Wear in Cancun Mexico
As you can see below, the weather in Cancun doesn’t fluctuate much; so flowy maxi dresses, denim shorts, tank tops and flip flops work all year-long.
In the winter months, you may throw on a cardigan or light jacket at night, but other than that, it’s bathing suits and warm weather wear all year.
Cancun Weather & Seasons
While predicting tropical weather is difficult, we know that it’s HOT in Cancun all year-long. There’s also two temperatures: The number in degrees, and the real feel.
Since Cancun is also humid all year-long (especially in summer and fall), add an extra 5-10°F onto the degrees numbers — because 87°F usually feels like 97°F.
These will give you a mental image of what people mean when they refer to Cancun style clothes — but know you should dress how you feel most comfortable.
Mexico beach towns tend to be less conservative than cities, and in places like Tulum, Sayulita, Zihuatanejo, and Cancun, anything goes.
As some of the most Instagram worthy Mexico travel destinations, these places attract fashionistas who dress to the nines — but also have a comfy vibe.
🥵 Cancun Travel Tips: Besides those stylish Cancun clothes seen above, don’t forget your Water-To-Go Bottle.
This will help keep you hydrated under the hot Mexican sun, and filters your water so you don’t get sick in Cancun.
Best Luggage for Cancun Mexico
Wondering, What luggage should you bring to Cancun, Mexico?
This depends on your travel style, but I always recommend traveling light to Mexico with carry-on luggage or a travel backpack so you can move around easily.
🤑 Bonus: You’ll also save money by not checking luggage.
Be aware that you may have to walk down sandy paths to get to your room at Cancun beach hotels. Even in Downtown Cancun, some streets have uneven paving.
With all that in mind, here are my picks for Cancun packing luggage:
Best Suitcase Set for Cancun Mexico
2-piece set of hardside spinner luggage (20- and 28-inch sizes; one carry-on and one checked bag)
Reliable strength with extra-thick ABS hard shell, scratch resistant finish, and fully lined interior
Easy to move with 4 double spinner wheels, telescoping handle, and short handle
Expandable for up to 15% more packing space; interior organizer with divider, plus 3 zippered pockets for smaller items
As a professional travel blogger who’s traveled A LOT, I only buy hard suitcases that have spinner wheels — like this Amazon Basics two-piece set.
It has high ratings, and is a great value set that will last for years. The set comes in a variety of colors, so yours stand out in a sea of black suitcases.
Best Travel Backpack for Cancun Mexico
Adjustable torso fit
External Gear Attachment loops
Padded top and side handles
When it comes to travel backpacks, there’s Osprey Backpacks — and everyone else!
Osprey is the #1 most recommended brand for backpackers and those who travel light because they last forever and have an AMAZING warranty if anything breaks (which is very rare).
While they aren’t cheap, even with heavy use you won’t need a new Osprey for about a decade (or longer).
Cancun Packing List Must-Have: Space Saver Packing Cubes
These Space Saver Packing Cubes are the travel packing game changers you need in your life!
The double zipper design shrinks everything down to its smallest possible size, so you save a little space to bring back all those colorful Mexico souvenirs you pick up while shopping in Cancun.
Essential Cancun Packing Checklist
Below, you will find the essential items that need to be on your Cancun packing list for Mexico.
Under this main list, you’ll see the different things to do in Cancun, so you can add those recommended items onto your packing list for Cancun, if you’re doing those things.
Sarong (Cover-up)
Rompers
Sundresses
Shorts
Tank tops
Yoga pants/Leggings
Undergarments
Cardigan
Strappy sandals
Wedges (Not heels!)
Sneakers
Sun hat
Beach bag
Evening purse
PJs
Sunglasses
Body wash
Deodorant
Razors
Shampoo/Conditioner
Anti-frizz hair product
Hairbrush
Eco-friendly sunscreen
Eco-friendly bug repellent
Face & Body lotion
Lip balm or Chapstick
Headband/Hair wrap
Hair ties for long hair
Perfume/Body spray
Phone charger
Books/Kindle
Headphones
Cancun Packing List by Activity
With so many Cancun things to do, there’s no shortage of amazing activities to add to your Cancun itinerary.
Depending on what you plan to do in Cancun — beaches, ruins, cenotes or just eating and drinking during a long weekend in Cancun — make sure to add the items below to your Cancun packing list.
Packing for Cancun Beaches
Sarong (Beach cover ups)
Pair of sunglasses
Sandals
Beach bag
Mask & snorkel
Water bottle
Quick dry towel
Wide-brim sun hat
Eco-friendly sunscreen
Dry bag
Located on the Caribbean Sea in the Riviera Maya, Cancun’s beaches rank as some of the best beaches in Mexico.
If you’re heading to the beaches in Cancun, and I assume you are 😎, don’t forget to pack these beach essentials listed above.
Packing for Chichen Itza & Mayan Ruins
There are numerous Mayan Ruins in Cancun and near Cancun, like Coba Ruins and Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
If you’re heading to any of the Mayan Ruins in Mexico, don’t forget to pack these items:
Tank top
Sports bra
Sneakers
Socks
Eco-friendly sunscreen
Wide-brim sun hat
Eco-friendly sunscreen
Backpack
Packing for Cenotes in Cancun
Cenotes are basically natural jungle pools, and there are about 6,000 cenotes in Mexico! Many of the best Yucatan cenotes are located near Cancun.
If you’re heading to any of the best cenotes near Cancun, and want to do somesnorkeling while you’re at it, don’t forget to pack these items:
Sarong (Cover up)
Sunglasses
Water shoes
Beach bag
Mask & snorkel
Waterproof pouch
Sun hat
Eco-friendly sunscreen
Quick dry towel
Dry bag
Packing for Cancun Restaurants & Bars
Wondering, What to wear in Cancun at night?
Cancun has casual dive bars and street taco shops, but also upscale restaurants and chic bars — so you’ll want to pack according to the places you’ll be visiting.
As a Mexico beach town, “laid back” is still the official dress code, but if you’re planning a big night out, don’t forget to pack these items:
Headband for up-do’s
Wedges (not heels)
Cancun straw purse
Perfume/Body spray
Costume jewelry
Sweat-proof makeup
What NOT to Bring to Cancun Mexico
Now that you know what to take to Cancun, equally as important is knowing what NOT to pack for Cancun Mexico.
Below is a list of six items you can skip on your Cancun packing list.
1. U.S. Dollars
While some places in Cancun will take dollars, they do it at lower rates than the actual conversion, since they have to then pay to convert the dollars into pesos.
The best thing to do is take out pesos in the Cancun Airport when you land, but if you forget, there will be plenty of ATMs in Cancun.
2. Your Laptop (If you don’t need it)
This goes for any electronic gadgets, but definitely high dollar items like your laptop and expensive DSLR camera.
Unless you know exactly what you’re bringing it for, don’t bring something you only might use.
3. Designer Clothing
A Cancun vacation is great and amazing and all that, but travel is also hectic and things get easily lost and accidentally left behind.
Designer labels, sadly, do make you a bit of a target for thieves, and can attract the wrong kind of attention.
4. Expensive Jewelry
I highly recommend you leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewelry at home while you travel, so you don’t risk never seeing them again.
Also, Cancun is quite hot, so you might not even want to wear jewelry when you arrive, so you might skip bringing it at all.
5. High Heels
If there’s one thing you can leave off you packing list for Cancun, it’s high heels 👠
Even at the nicer restaurants, you’d still see dressy sandals and flats before you see heels in Cancun.
6. Your Whole Medicine Cabinet
Do bring your prescriptions, and anything you take regularly, but for the most part, you can buy the same over the counter medicine in Cancun you can in the U.S.
There are farmacias(pharmacies) all over town, so don’t over-pack meds or a first aid kit when you’re traveling to Cancun Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cancun Travel
What do I need to bring with me to Cancun?
You must bring essential travel documents, such as your passport, travel insurance, and reservation confirmations.
Pack sun protection items like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Swimwear and beachwear are a must, along with comfortable clothing for hot weather.
If you are visiting during the rainy season, bring a lightweight rain jacket and an umbrella. Also, bring necessary medications and basic first aid supplies.
A waterproof phone case and a reusable water bottle can be very useful. Don’t forget your chargers and adapters for electronic devices.
How do I pack for a week in Cancun?
Focus on lightweight, breathable clothing when packing for a week in Cancun. Include swimwear, beach cover-ups, and casual outfits for evening outings.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the strong sun.
Add a compact umbrella and a light rain jacket for rainy or hurricane season. Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops are essential.
Don’t forget your travel-sized toiletries, any necessary medications, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
A waterproof phone case can also be handy for beach and pool days.
With the right Cancun packing list for a week, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything this beautiful destination offers while staying comfortable and secure.
What NOT to Pack to Cancun
Leave expensive jewelry and valuables at home to minimize the risk of loss or theft.
Do not bring large amounts of cash with you that needs to be converted into pesos; instead use ATMs in Mexico.
Avoid packing prohibited items like illegal drugs, weapons, and certain food products.
It’s generally unnecessary to bring beach towels, as most hotels provide them.
Leave behind any non-essential gadgets to lighten your luggage, and simplify your travel experience.
Is it better to carry cash in Cancun?
It is best to carry a mix of cash and credit cards in Cancun, but always have cash on you.
While many places accept cards, having cash is convenient for small purchases, tips, and local markets.
Mexican pesos are preferred (especially for tipping in Cancun), but U.S. dollars are also accepted in some places.
To withdraw cash as needed, use ATMs located in safe, well-lit areas. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash to reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Finally, consider notifying your bank of your travel plans to prevent any issues with card usage while in Cancun.
Should I carry my passport with me in Cancun?
No — You generally do not need to carry your passport with you in Cancún but always carry an official of ID, like your driver’s license.
Instead of the actual passport, have an image of your passport on your phone, and leave the original in a secure place like your hotel safe.
This reduces the risk of losing your passport, but you’d still have necessary identification.
Do note that you may need your passport for significant transactions or certain excursions and tours that require official identification.
What can you not bring back from Cancun?
You cannot bring back certain items from Cancún, including illegal drugs, live plants, and certain food products like fresh fruits and meats.
Seeds, endangered species and products made from them are also prohibited.
Be cautious with souvenirs made from coral, sea turtles, or other protected wildlife, as they are illegal to export.
It’s best to buy souvenirs from reputable stores to ensure they’re safe and legal to bring back.
⚠️ For the most up-to-date information, check customs regulations for your home country before purchasing items in Cancun.
Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Cancun?
No — In fact, some people even recommend using filtered water or bottled water to brush your teeth in Cancún.
Most hotels provide bottled water, readily available at local stores. Using bottled water helps avoid stomach issues and ensures a more enjoyable trip.
Additionally, be mindful of using tap water to rinse fruits and vegetables and opt for bottled water instead.
Your FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico
Need more Mexico packing tips and suggestions for things to bring to Mexico (as well as things to leave behind)?
Everything covered in this article, and more, is on this 10-page Mexico packing checklist. Just enter your email above, and grab the FREE packing list for Mexico pdf.
This checklist for traveling to Mexico covers everything you’ll want to bring, from clothing and accessories, to toiletries and travel documents.
There is a travel checklist for Mexico, so you can check things off as you go to make sure you’re not forgetting anything when packing for Mexico.
My Final Thoughts on Making a Simple Cancun Packing List
Packing for Cancún requires a blend of comfort, practicality, and preparation for its tropical climate.
Prioritize lightweight, breathable clothing that can handle the warm weather and occasional rain. For said rain, this travel umbrella comes in handy.
Essentials like swimwear, beachwear, sun protection, and rain gear are key things to pack for Cancun.
Minimalist, secure accessories like this anti-theft crossbody bag and simple jewelry (even these silicone wedding rings) enhance travel safety.
Understanding how to dress for Cancun can enhance your experience, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.
Always consider your activities and dress accordingly to blend in with the locals — and in Mexico, locals tend to dress on the more conservative side.
…and that’s my list of what to pack for a trip to Cancun. With this list of things to take to Cancun, you’ll have no problems enjoying everything this destination offers.