WONDERING WHAT TO pack for resorts in Mexico?
You’re in the right place, as this is the only Mexico resort packing list you need! In it, you’ll learn what to bring to Mexico resorts, 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 Mexico beach towns like Cancun, Cabo, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, and more.
🧳 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 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 the outdoors and local nightlife, you’re about to discover what to bring to Mexico resorts.
Your Ultimate Mexico Resort 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 Mexico.
📲 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 prefers to be safe rather than sorry, this 8gb size should have more than enough data for a month, even if you’re watching videos and doing 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?
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.
🥵 Mexico beaches are 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 Mexico 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
If you want to go even more green, the best way to do that is to not use any sunscreen at all — and instead, opt for a long-sleeve swimsuit (rash guard).
Also, if you’re planning to visit the cenotes, know that sunscreen of any kind is prohibited because the oils ruin this natural ecosystem (even eco sunscreens).
4. Hangover Meds
There are all kinds of yummy adult beverages and Mexico drinks you’re probably planning to sip poolside on your Mexico all-inclusive resort 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 Mexico 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 in Mexico, as well as all the best beaches in Mexico.
💦 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 Mexico.
7. Water Shoes
Having these water shoes 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 on the coast and close to the Equator, Mexico beaches are a hot year-round 😥 (yes, even in winter).
Some locals even joke that Mexico beach towns have two climates: Hot and hotter, so you can expect to sweat at least a little (but probably a lot in summer).
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 Mexico beach vacation.
9. Eco-Friendly Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are an issue in Mexico beaches throughout the year, so you’ll definitely want (likely even need) mosquito repellent.
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 Mexico 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 venturing off-resort, 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 Tulum, Cancun, Cabo, and more.
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 Mexico has a lot of party towns, 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 (Mexican 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 Mexico, verify what fees (if any) your different cards have, and make sure to use the card(s) with the lowest fees (or no fees at all).
17. Your Driver’s License
Planning on renting a car in Mexico? 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 hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or all-inclusive resort.
What to Wear in Mexico
The weather on Mexico beaches 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.
Mexico Beaches Weather
While predicting weather is difficult, we know that it’s HOT on the coast of Mexico all year-long, even in winter.
There are also two temperatures you need to be aware of: The number in degrees, and the real feel.
Since Mexican beaches are also humid year-round (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 Mexico 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.
🥵 Mexico Travel Tips: Besides those stylish Mexico vacation outfits 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 Mexico.
Best Luggage for Mexico
Wondering, What luggage should you bring to 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 beachfront room, and even downtown areas have streets with uneven paving.
With all that in mind, here are my picks for the best Mexico packing luggage:
Best Suitcase Set for 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 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).
Mexico Resort 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 Mexico.
Essential Mexico Resort Packing Checklist
Below, you will find the essential items that need to be on your packing list for resorts in Mexico.
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
What NOT to Bring to Mexico
Now that you know what to take to Mexico resorts, equally as important is knowing what NOT to pack for Mexico.
Below is a list of six items you can skip on your Mexico packing list.
1. U.S. Dollars
While some places 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 airport when you land, but if you forget, there will be plenty of ATMs in town.
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 Mexico 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, Mexico beaches are 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 Mexico beaches, it’s high heels 👠
Even at the nicer restaurants, you’d still see dressy sandals and flats before you see heels in most beach towns where comfort is the name of the game.
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 Mexico 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 Mexico.
What to Pack for Cabo San Lucas
Prepare for beach days and upscale nights when packing for Cabo San Lucas.
Bring plenty of swimsuits, lightweight clothing, and sun-protective gear like hats and sunscreen.
Pack comfortable sandals, a beach bag, and a reusable water bottle for daytime activities and excursions.
Cabo’s elevated restaurant scene calls for fancier options in the evening, so include a few dressy outfits and stylish shoes.
Sunglasses, a good book, and a portable charger are great for lounging by the pool or beach.
If you plan to explore beyond the resort, pack comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and a waterproof phone case.
A basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and after-sun lotion are essential for health and safety.
What to Pack for Puerto Vallarta
Packing for Puerto Vallarta means being ready for beach relaxation and cultural exploration.
Start with plenty of swimsuits, lightweight clothing, and sun-protective gear like hats and sunscreen.
Pack comfortable sandals, a reusable water bottle, and a sturdy beach bag for daytime adventures.
Puerto Vallarta’s charming town and vibrant art scene invite you to explore, so include comfortable walking shoes, casual outfits, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Don’t forget essentials like sunglasses, a good book, and a portable charger for beach or poolside lounging.
For health and safety, pack a basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and after-sun lotion.
If you plan to enjoy water activities, bring water shoes, a waterproof phone case, and a dry bag.
What to Pack for Tulum
For a trip to Tulum, pack with a focus on beach relaxation and eco-friendly exploration.
Bring several swimsuits, lightweight clothing, and sun-protective gear like hats and high-SPF sunscreen.
Pack comfortable sandals, a reusable water bottle, and a sturdy beach bag for daytime activities.
Tulum’s eco-chic vibe means you’ll want to include casual, bohemian-style outfits and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the Mayan ruins and cenotes.
Evenings can be cooler, so pack a light jacket or wrap. Sunglasses, a good book, and a portable charger are perfect for downtime by the beach or pool.
Don’t forget a basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and after-sun lotion for health and safety.
Bring water shoes, a waterproof phone case, and a dry bag for water activities.
What to Pack for Cancun
When packing for Cancun, balance beach relaxation with vibrant nightlife and adventure activities.
Start with plenty of swimsuits, lightweight clothing, and sun-protective gear like hats and sunscreen.
Pack comfortable sandals, a reusable water bottle, and a sturdy beach bag for daytime excursions.
Cancun’s lively nightlife and upscale dining call for dressy outfits and stylish shoes for evenings out.
Sunglasses, a good book, and a portable charger are essentials for lounging by the pool or beach.
If you plan to explore beyond the resort, include comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and a waterproof phone case.
For water activities, pack water shoes, a dry bag, and a snorkel set if you plan to explore the underwater world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Include comfortable sandals for daytime, and a pair of dressy shoes for nights out.
Remember essentials like toiletries, medications, a reusable water bottle, and a beach bag.
Also, pack comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for excursions on cooler evenings.
For your one week in Mexico packing list, bring accessories like sunglasses, a book, and a portable charger are also useful.
Lastly, a basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and after-sun lotion will help keep you comfortable and safe.
What to look for in an all inclusive resort in Mexico?
When choosing an all-inclusive resort in Mexico, consider the resort’s amenities, such as pools, restaurants, entertainment options and activities, as well as cost, and reviews.
Check if the resort offers family-friendly, adults-only, or luxury accommodations based on your travel group.
Location is important; ensure it’s close to the attractions or beaches you want to visit. Read reviews about the quality of food, service, and overall experience.
Also, look into the resort’s policies on tipping, dress code, and included services like airport transfers and excursions.
Is there a dress code for all-inclusive resorts?
Most all-inclusive resorts in Mexico have a casual dress code during the day, where swimsuits, shorts, and flip-flops are acceptable.
However, many resorts enforce a smart-casual dress code for evening dining and entertainment.
This means men might need to wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes, while women might opt for dresses, skirts, or nice pants.
It’s best to check the specific resort’s guidelines to ensure you pack appropriately for all occasions.
Do I need to bring shampoo to an all-inclusive resort?
Most all-inclusive resorts in Mexico provide basic toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
However, you might want to bring your own if you have specific preferences or sensitivities.
It’s always a good idea to check with the resort beforehand to see what is included in your room amenities so you can pack accordingly and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
Are you supposed to tip at an all-inclusive in Mexico?
While tips are often included in the cost of an all-inclusive resort in Mexico, it’s common practice to tip for exceptional service.
Staff members like bartenders, waitstaff, housekeeping, and bellboys appreciate tips.
Bringing small denominations of local currency (Mexican pesos) or U.S. dollars can be handy for this purpose.
Tipping a few dollars per service or daily for housekeeping can enhance your experience and show appreciation for the staff’s hard work.
Can you drink water in Mexico all-inclusive?
It depends — While some resorts filter and purify their tap water so guests can drink it, not all do.
Instead, most all-inclusive resorts in Mexico provide bottled drinking water to ensure guest safety — but don’t assume the tap water in your room is safe to drink.
If you have concerns, the best thing to do is ask the resort staff for clarification.
🪥 Mexico Resorts Pro Tip: Using bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth is a good practice to avoid any potential stomach issues on your trip.
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 Your Mexico Resort Packing List
When planning your Mexico vacation, it’s important to consider all the essentials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Your ultimate Mexico packing list should include lightweight clothing, swimwear, and sun protection to handle the warm climate.
Remember the key things to take on vacation to Mexico: comfortable shoes for exploring, a reusable water bottle, and a beach bag.
For an all-inclusive packing list, don’t forget to pack your favorite toiletries, entertainment, and any special items like snorkel gear or a travel mug.
Always make sure to get travel insurance for peace of mind.
Knowing what to take to Mexico will help you feel prepared, whether lounging by the pool or exploring local attractions.
Prioritize sun protection to stay safe and healthy throughout your stay. With these tips, you can be sure your packing is thorough and efficient, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ultimate Mexico vacation.
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