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Cancun is a great place to visit anytime of the year, that’s why our Cancun packing list breaks down what to pack in the Wet, and the Dry Season. We’ve got you covered with our comprensive guide on what to bring to Cancun, including ideas on how much to take, and any special items needed for certain months.
Cancun is a well known getaway destination for Americans, with vibrant blue water, cenotes and themed water parks. Its popular with couples looking for a romantic trip, spring breakers, and everyone in between. And its not just Americans, people from all around the world flock to Cancun and the rest of the Yucatan to catch a break from the 9 to 5.
We’ve written our guide on what to pack for Cancun with a 1-2 week trip in mind, with the understanding that item numbers can be reduced for shorter trips. As I recommend in all my packing lists, if you’re visiting for longer than 2 weeks, you are still probably best off using this packing list. Adding too many extra items will cause overweight luggage and a sore back (or arm). Handwashing is free and with the hot weather, it wont take items long to dry.
Read on to see what to take to Cancun, from someone who lived in Mexico for 8 months.
In a hurry? Here are my 3 must haves for what to pack:
Why?: (#1) A light rain jacket doesn’t take up too much room, but helps you from getting caught out when it rains.
Why?: (#2) There are many different brands available but a set of wireless headphones are amazing for long bus or train journeys.
Why?: (#3) Having a lens cloth is so important yet its often left off packing lists. They’re cheap to buy and can save your photos from random smudges.
What to Pack for Cancun: Clothing
1 light rain jacket or plastic poncho: if visiting during the wet season (see notes in next section)
1 light cardigan
1-2 Hats
1 cover up for the beach: something to throw over your swimwear when you’re near the beach or on a boat
1-2 pairs of sunglasses
1-3 swimsuits: you can wear any style in cancun as it is a known tourist hotspot
2-3 bras: as most activities are water based in Cancun, you’ll be fine wearing your bathers most of the time
5-14 pairs of underwear: I recommend taking one pair for each day on your trip, or one for every two days if you’re comfortable handwashing in the sink or shower
2-3 pairs of shorts: if visiting in the wet season, opt for more breathable material
1-2 skirts
4-9 tops
2-4 dresses: or more if you’re more of a dress person that a shorts person, then lower the amount of tops and bottoms you’ll bring
1 pair of lightweight pants: if visiting in the dry season
1-2 pairs of pyjamas: opt for something suited for warmer temperatures
1-3 pairs of shoes: sandals or flats
Evening wear: if going out to nightclubs or fancy dinners, pack a couple of dresses or dressier tops if nothing you’ve packed so far can be multi-tasked.
Packing for Cancun in the Wet Season
It can help to know what to expect weather wise when packing for Cancun, to ensure you have all your bases covered. In saying that, Cancun really only has two seasons, the wet and the dry. The names are pretty self explanatory.
What to pack for Cancun in May: The start of the wet season, May can be a bit of a mixed bag. Depending on the year, you may see little rain, or you may experience a lot. A light rain jacket or poncho will keep you prepared, but apart from that, enjoy the summer temperatures before the humidity cranks up.
Jean shorts are still comfortable in may, as are dresses and sandals. You may want to bring one pair of enclosed shoes though for rainy afternoons or mornings.
What to pack for Cancun in June, July and August: June is when the rainy season really seems to start in. The three months will see a bit of rain, but the rain never lasts for too long so you wont be stuck inside all day. However, humidity can be around 80% at this time.
During these months in Cancun its best to bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho that you can keep in your day bag. You wont want anything too heavy, due to the humidity, but it’ll come in handy if you’re stuck outside in a shower.
In addition to this, consider getting a waterproof cover for your backpack. As it can get quite hot, I’d recommend lightweight clothing such as flowy dresses, tops in light colours and lightweight shorts. Sandals will help keep your feet cool, and a hat will be your best protection from the sun while walking around.
What to pack for Cancun in September & October: With sea temperature at its highest during these two months, its also the time most at risk for hurricanes or tropical storms. A rain jacket is a must during September and October, as is some diligence in checking the weather report.
While not every year has a hurricane, its something you should check the weather report for before you leave for your trip. Shoe wise, wearing enclosed shoes will be more comfortable when the rain hits, bonus points if they’re water proof.
Packing for Cancun in the Dry Season
What to pack for Cancun in November: In November the wet season has drawn to a close, but the rain doesn’t switch off just like that. Expect that you may encounter short showers on a day or two during your trip when visiting in November.
To play it safe, pack a rainproof poncho or rain jacket but only bring it out of your hotel when the weather forecast prompts you. A light cardigan could be brough during this time, especially if visiting closer to the end of November.
What to pack for Cancun in December & January: The cooler temperatures during these months make pants an option, but most tourists still stick with dresses and shorts. A cute pair of flats will work well during this time.
A light cardigan or sweater should be packed during December and January, even if just for colder evenings.
What to pack for Cancun in February, March & April: These three months are the driest of the year, so since there is only a small chance of rain, you can skip packing your rain jacket, but may want a light cardigan.
March in particular, is the month with the lowest rainfall. In addition, humidity levels are quite low in March and April, and there can be a nice breeze.
What to Bring to Cancun: Toiletries, Cosmetics & Medicine
Shampoo & Conditioner: I recommend either taking a travel sized version of your normal brand, or trying out some solid shampoo.
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Deodorant
Prescription medication and a small first aid kit: pack some medicine to help with stomach aches, food poisoning and dehydration. You can also get medicine in pharmacies in Cancun, so its up to you if you want to bring your own or not. I prefer to have a small amount of medicine in my bag so I don’t have to go out wandering straight away.
Tissues: just a small pack for if you catch a cold, back up toilet paper, or to wipe away sweat.
Reef friendly sunscreen
Insect repellent: because mosquitos also go on holiday (but not from drinking your blood).
Pads or tampons: in case that comes-a-knocking.
What Electronics to Take to Cancun
Camera: You will want to pack your camera.
Camera charger and accessories: Most important, don’t forget your charger. In addition consider taking 1-2 spare batteries. Accessory wise, an ND filter can come in handy in Cancun.
2-3 x 16 or 32gb memory cards
Lenses: if you have an SLR I would recommend a wide angle and a 50mm (or 35mm) lens in Cancun.
Lens cleaner and cloth: a cheap kit will do to fight back against dust and fingerprints.
Waterproof camera: So much of the fun in Cancun is water based, so if you have the funds, you should bring a waterproof camera to Cancun. Some options include taking a Go Pro or getting underwater housing for your regular camera.
Dome Accessory: This is highly optional but if you have a Go Pro you can buy an accessory that lets you take half over, half under pictures. One iteration of this type of plastic dome is called the Go Dome, but there are a few different brands offering 6 or 8 inch domes. Alternatively if you have underwater housing for your SLR you can also get a 8 inch dome that will attach to your set up for the same results.
Mobile + Charger
International adapter
Power bank: In case your phone dies while you’re outside.
Other Things to Bring to Cancun
If you are unsure what other things to pack for Cancun, we’ve got you covered.
Waterproof bag for belongings when at the beach or on boat rides.
A small day bag – whether this be a handbag or a backpack.
A small clutch – if you plan on going out at night to the night clubs, you may like to bring something small to carry your phone and money in.
Snorkeling set – you can rent these very cheaply in Cancun, but if you have your own and plan to snorkel from the shore, you can definitely bring your own set.
Digital scan or photocopy of your passport
2+ bank cards – so you have a backup in case you loose one.
A compact paper fan or electronic fan – for those of us who are perennially lost, wandering around in the heat can be stressful, pack a small fan if you have the room.
FAQ on What to Pack for Cancun
What should I pack for 3 nights in Cancun? – Packing for 3 nights in Cancun is easy. With only 3 days you can easily pack an outfit for each day. Add in some pajamas, and something dressier for clubbing and you’re all set.
The only thing that is a bit trickier is shoes, as they can take up a bit of space. Stick to 1-2 pairs of shoes – something comfortable for sightseeing, and a second pair that looks dressier for the evenings.
What to pack for a week in Cancun, all inclusive? – Our Cancun packing list will work well for a Cancun, all inclusive holiday. You may need to alter the numbers a little to have it work out to one outfit a day. Beyond that, if going to fancier restaurants or out to clubs, take 3 evening outfits and a nice pair of shoes. In colder seasons also pick a light jacket or cardigan to take with you.
Should I Bring Towels to Cancun? – I recommend bringing a lightweight microfibre towel to Cancun. This will be easy to pack in your bag and won’t take up too much space.
Should I bring cash to Cancun? – Its recommended to always bring a small amount of currency to a currency, to tide you over until you get to an ATM. I would recommend bring 2-3 days worth of food and drink expenses in pesos. Don’t bring a ton of cash with you, you can easily use the ATMs / bank machines on arrival.
Should I bring water shoes to Cancun? – Water shoes are not a necessity in Cancun, but can be brought if you’re more comfortable wearing them.