The Ultimate Packing List For Your Cancun Getaway

If you're planning a trip to Cancun, you'll want to make sure you've packed the essentials. From clothing to medicines and electronics, there's a lot to consider. Here's a comprehensive list of what to take when travelling to Cancun:

Clothing and Accessories:

- Swimsuits

- Cover-ups

- Daytime outfits (denim shorts, tops, rompers, maxi dresses)

- Sun hats and sun protection gear (reef-friendly sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)

- Dinner outfits (dresses, skirts, dress pants/shorts, dress sandals)

- Underwear and bras

- Hiking/walking shoes or sneakers

- Sandals

- Sun dresses

- Casual daytime outfits

- Light sweater or jacket

- Rain jacket

- Insect repellent clothing

Toiletries and Medicines:

- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc.)

- First aid kit

- Anti-diarrhea medicine

- Lip balm with SPF

- Insect repellent

- Sunscreen (reef-safe and biodegradable)

- Moisturising conditioner

- Anti-chafing stick

- Lip balm with SPF

- Probiotics

Electronics and Other Essentials:

- Waterproof phone case

- Power bank

- Travel insurance documents

- Passport and visa

- Local currency (Mexican Pesos)

- Credit cards

- Charging cables

- Curling/flat iron

- Contact lens solution

- Bug spray

- Water bottles/water purification tablets

- Backpack or beach tote bag

- Map

- Pen

Insect repellent

Look for insect repellent with DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide). Products containing this compound are the most effective at preventing mosquito bites and are available in concentrations ranging from 5% to 100%. The higher the concentration, the longer the protection lasts—from 90 minutes with a lower concentration to up to 10 hours with a higher one.

You can also treat your clothing with Permethrin or purchase clothing pre-treated with this insect repellent. A single application of Permethrin lasts for six washes or 42 days of sun exposure.

In addition to insect repellent, there are several other measures you can take to protect yourself from mosquitoes:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during the day when mosquitoes are most active. Light-coloured clothing is best.
• Stay in a hotel room on the fifth floor or higher. Mosquitoes tend to fly at knee level or below, so being on a higher floor will reduce your chances of encountering them.
• Choose accommodation with air conditioning and screens on the windows and doors.
• Eliminate standing water, such as in buckets or flower pots, as this is where mosquitoes lay their eggs.
• Be prepared for mosquitoes that bite during the day. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue, chikungunya, and zika viruses, is a day-biting, urban-dwelling mosquito.
• Purchase a plug-in insect repellent like Raid Laminitas when you arrive in Cancun. This will help get rid of mosquitoes in your room.
• Use a mosquito net while sleeping.
• Take vitamin B supplements, which some people find helpful in reducing mosquito bites. However, there is conflicting evidence about their effectiveness.

First aid kit

When travelling to Cancun, it's important to be prepared for any minor accidents or injuries. Here is a list of essentials for your first aid kit:

Basic First-Aid Items:

• Antibacterial wipes and hand sanitiser (containing at least 60% alcohol)
• Instant cold pack
• Pain relievers (e.g. acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin)
• Scissors (rounded tips)
• Self-adhesive wrap
• Thermometer (no mercury or glass)
• Tweezers

Essentials for Skin Problems:

• Aloe vera gel
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic spray or wipes
• Bandages (small, medium and large)
• Calamine lotion
• Gauze (pads and roll)
• Medical tape

Medicine for Stomach Troubles:

• Antacids
• Anti-diarrhoea medication (e.g. loperamide tablets)
• Laxatives or stool softeners
• Motion sickness medication

First Aid for Respiratory Problems:

• Antihistamines (e.g. loratadine, diphenhydramine)
• Cold relief medication (daytime and nighttime formulas)
• Cough suppressant
• Saline nasal spray

COVID-19-Related Items:

• Hand sanitiser
• Face masks

Other Essentials:

• Prescription medications (enough for the trip plus extra)
• Insect repellent
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF)
• Water purification tablets/filter

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is an essential item to take with you when travelling to Cancun. Not only will it protect your phone from water damage, but it will also allow you to take photos and videos while enjoying water-based activities. Here are some things to consider when choosing and using a waterproof phone case:

Choosing a Waterproof Phone Case

When selecting a waterproof phone case, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with your phone model. Some cases are designed specifically for certain iPhone or Samsung models, while others are universal and will fit multiple phone sizes. It is also a good idea to check the buoyancy and depth capabilities of the case. If you plan on swimming, snorkelling, or engaging in water sports, look for a case with built-in floatation or a lanyard to prevent your phone from sinking. Additionally, consider the level of protection offered by the case. Opt for a case with drop protection and a high IP rating, which indicates greater resistance to water and dust.

Using a Waterproof Phone Case

Before using your waterproof phone case, it is crucial to test its waterproofing capabilities. Some cases are only designed to protect against rain or splashes, while others can withstand full water submersion. Familiarise yourself with the case's limitations and test it at home before taking it on your trip. When using the case, ensure that all openings and plugs are properly sealed to prevent leaks. While most cases allow touchscreen access, certain functions, such as fingerprint locks, may not work. Keep in mind that the protective screen may affect the quality of your photos, especially selfies. Finally, remember to bring any necessary accessories, such as a lanyard or carabiner, to secure your phone during your activities.

Sun protection

• Use a high SPF sunscreen: Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply it frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Choose a reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreen: Some areas in Cancun and the surrounding Riviera Maya region have regulations requiring the use of biodegradable sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs. Look for sunscreens that are labelled as "reef-safe" and "biodegradable", and avoid those that contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and homosalate.
• Wear protective clothing: Cover up with lightweight, breathable clothing that blocks UV rays. This can include long-sleeved shirts, rash guards, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Seek shade: Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Bring an umbrella or find shade under a tree or canopy.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body hydrated and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
• Lip balm: Don't forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that has an SPF of at least 30.
• Avoid the sun during peak hours: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so try to plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
• Be cautious with reflective surfaces: Water, sand, and other reflective surfaces can intensify the sun's rays, so be especially careful when spending time near the ocean or on the beach.
• After-sun care: If you do end up with a sunburn, use after-sun care products such as aloe vera gel or lotion to soothe and moisturize your skin.

Travel documents

When travelling to Cancun, it is important to have all the necessary documents to enter Mexico. Here is a list of the essential travel documents you need to carry:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. It is mandatory to have a valid passport to visit Mexico by air. If your passport expires before or during your stay in Mexico, you must renew it before your trip.
• Visa: Citizens of certain countries, such as the EU, the United States, and Canada, can enter Mexico without a visa and stay for up to 180 days. However, if you plan to stay longer or engage in non-tourism activities, you will need to apply for a visa.
• Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) or Mexican Tourist Card: All foreign visitors to Cancun must complete the FMM, also known as the Mexican Tourist Card. This can be done online before travelling to Mexico, and you must print and carry it with you. The FMM is required for stays of up to 180 days for tourism, business, and other purposes.
• Return Flight Ticket: It is advisable to have a return or onward ticket to show that your stay in Mexico is temporary.
• Documentation of Purpose of Visit: You may need to provide documentation proving the purpose of your visit, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter if staying at someone's home.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: It is recommended to carry proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Mexico.
• Other Documents for Minors: If travelling with minors, additional documentation is required. Mexican law requires that any non-Mexican minor departing Mexico must carry notarised written permission from any parent or guardian not travelling with the child. This permission must include specific information such as the names of the child and parents, the name of any accompanying adults, and the reason for the trip.

Frequently asked questions