When it comes to a tropical location, Cancún has it all! Beaches, reefs, hiking, caves, ancient ruins, nightlife, shopping, and the best tacos of your life! It’s impossible to get bored here.
With so many things to do, you’ll need to be careful about how you pack. I’ve put together some tips for what to wear in Cancún, plus must-have items to pack, what NOT to bring, and some FAQs for your convenience.
Secondly – you can access the internet freely without any country-specific censorship or restrictions. Certain countries block the use of Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, PayPal, etc., due to regional conflicts with your IP address. But a VPN like NordVPN will allow you to stream whatever you like and have a fully secure network with nearly unlimited servers. It’s affordable and 100% necessary for global travel.
We use Faye because they custom create a travel plan for each trip. They’re modernizing insurance by making the claims process super approachable. It’s all handled on their mobile app, and you’ll even find the option to “cancel for any reason,” which is rarely offered by most affordable providers.
Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.
Not to mention, the key to a good toiletry bag is stain-resistant material, since stains will inevitably appear from makeup and hair products. This one by Eco Sun really shows careful design and planning. You can visibly see the quality of craftsmanship and it’s backed by a lifetime happiness guarantee, so you can always swap it for a new one if something goes wrong.
If you’re cruising, the brightly-colored straps will be a perfect identifier for your belongings – even if you have to find them in a retrieval room at disembarkation (where all the similar-looking cases get grouped together! Ahh!) These are an epic addition to your packing list and will serve you well in all future travel.
We use Get Your Guide for the lowest prices and best-rated tours and excursions. Save some time for day trips to the lagoon sinkholes known as cenotes and archeological sites in Cancún’s neighboring cities, Tulum and Coba.
A ‘just in case bag’ is a thoughtful precaution for any shopping you may do. When empty, it’s more lightweight than a feather, but it expands to hold anything you need for day trips, souvenirs, or gift shopping. Bonus points: It counts as your carry-on item for the return flight home!
Related read: What to Pack for Mexico + What to Wear ➜
It’s no secret that Cancún is a beach lover’s paradise, but there is much more to it than that! When you’re not soaking up the sun, you could be dining in 5-star restaurants, eating from taco stands, scaling Mayan ruins, snorkeling with whale sharks, or partying the night away.
Needless to say, you’ll probably want to pack more than just swimwear for your trip. Of course, casual dress is suitable almost anywhere in Cancún, but you’ll also want to pack some slightly dressier pieces. The weather is reliably warm year-round, but the temperature can sometimes dip down a little in the winter, so it’s worth bringing a light jacket just in case of emergency.
When visiting Cancún, women will feel most comfortable in clothing made from lightweight, breathable fabrics. Mexican women typically wear linen or cotton dresses or pants. High heels and makeup are commonly worn by local women day to day. Additionally, local Mexicans tend to dress on the conservative side, if only to protect their skin from the sun. However, visitors shouldn’t feel out of place in shorts and tank tops. Classic resort wear like maxi dresses with sandals or espadrilles are perfect for a “dressed up” look, but visitors will feel right at home in shorts and flip-flops as well! Sandals are essential for any trip to Cancún, but be sure to pack sneakers for active days.
Mexican men tend to dress in clean-cut, casual clothing that errs on the dressy side. Like the women of Cancún, they too favor lightweight, breathable fabrics, such as linen and cotton. The most common ensemble of a man in Cancún would be jeans or khakis, paired with a guayabera shirt (a linen button shirt featuring rows of pleats sewn on either side of the buttons), along with leather shoes, sneakers, or sandals. Swim trunks and a tee shirt are acceptable attire, but the day to day look in Cancún tends to be a little bit more elevated than some of the more casual seaside towns (like Playa del Carmen or Tulum) on the Yucatán peninsula. Visiting men will feel most comfortable in chino shorts, sandals, and a t-shirt. Casual, yet well-composed outfits are ideal for Cancún.
Seasons in Cancún are fairly mild, though as mentioned above, winter can bring a little bit of a chill. Prep for heavy sun exposure and plenty of activity!
The wet season in Cancún is basically summer and fall combined, since temperatures don’t dip down much at all in what we normally think of as the fall months.
Temperatures are high, rain is frequent (between 10 and 15 rainy days per month), and the air tends to be a bit humid.
Rains don’t tend to last long when they do come – it may rain for a couple of hours and then clear up for the rest of your day.
This is the wet season, so of course you’ll need a rain jacket, and it should absolutely be the kind that allows vapor to escape from inside the jacket to prevent you from steaming inside it (like the one we’ve linked). There’s nothing worse than having to wear a jacket when it’s hot out and feeling like you’re wrapped in plastic wrap. You should also bring a travel umbrella to carry with you just in case. Shorts, tank tops, sundresses, and good sandals are perfect for this season. Water-resistant active shoes are a good idea if you’ll be doing anything active at all. Don’t forget a swimsuit cover-up and a fun sunhat and shades! Temperatures average between 85°F to 95°F (29°C to 35°C).
The dry season in Cancún is essentially a combination of winter and spring. Dry, windy, but plenty warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
Rain still happens this time of year, but it’s much less frequent. Still, a rain jacket is a good idea.
Tourist high-season is from January through April, so expect higher prices and more crowds during this time.
We recommend bringing a pair of pants in case of a chill, but there’s really no need to bring more than that. Even the evenings don’t cool off too much. Active shoes, walking sandals, sundresses, and shorts are still a great idea. Don’t forget to bring a stylish swimsuit cover-up for days on the beach or poolside! A sunhat, cute shades, and quality sunscreen are a must. Temperatures average between 80°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C) but can occasionally dip to as low as 65°F (18°C).
Aquatic Activities – The options for aquatic activities in Cancún are practically endless. You can do anything from snorkeling, jet skiing, scuba diving, parasailing, swimming in cenotes, and more! For days like this, where you’re bound to be in and out of the water regularly, you’ll be most comfortable wearing quick-dry clothing over your swimsuit. Bring a backpack to easily carry any extra items you may need – snacks, sunscreen, a mask and snorkel, and even a change of clothes, will likely come in handy. Sandals are the best footwear for days on the water because you won’t care if they get wet. Remember, the glare of the sun is amplified on the water; you won’t regret splurging for polarized sunnies.
Exploring the hotel zone – Cancún’s hotel zone is Mexico’s answer to the Las Vegas strip. You could spend hours wandering in and out of shops, restaurants, and hotel lobbies. If you plan to tackle the entire 15-mile stretch in one go, comfortable walking shoes are essential. If you’re just going for a quick stroll, sandals are just fine as the whole area is flat. Wear a comfortable sundress, or stylish shorts and a top for exploring to avoid feeling underdressed in the event you decide to pop into Cartier or another high-end boutique to browse!
Archaeological Sites – Chichén Itzá is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico and lies just a couple of hours from Cancún. If you plan to explore this ancient Mayan site, you’re best to go prepared. There is no shade to be found at Chichén Itzá, so it is crucial to prepare for sun exposure. Wear lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders to avoid burning. Bringing a sunhat, sunglasses, and a water bottle will help you stay protected and hydrated as well. Comfortable (and lightweight) running shoes will keep your feet cool and supported as you explore the site. Because you’ll be doing a lot of walking, avoid carrying a heavy purse or backpack; a crossbody bag with room for a water bottle and a small camera is a sensible option.
Nightlife – Cancún’s nightlife is composed of everything from beach bars to nightclubs, such as the infamous Coco Bongo. If you’re headed to an actual nightclub formal attire is preferred, though the rules tend to be somewhat forgiving for women. A dress and heels are ideal for women, while men should plan to wear a collared shirt, slacks, and dress shoes.
Because Cancún offers such a wide range of visitor experiences, it’s hard to go wrong when it comes to clothing. However, because locals tend to be a little on the dressy-side, you will fit in best when your outfits look composed, rather than thrown together. Cancún’s weather is consistently hot and humid, so it’s best to avoid heavy clothing and synthetic fabrics which will only make you sweat more. If your footwear requires socks, make sure they are breathable, cotton, or athletic socks that wick sweat and don’t trap odor; your friends and neighbors will thank you. Mexican women are notorious for wearing high heels at all times, but for the sake of your feet, save them just for nights out.
Books take up a lot of luggage space and are usually heavy. Consider how much you are going to read and if it justifies the space. Better yet, opt for a Kindle that will take up much less space, and can be protected with a waterproof case.
Cancún has many ATMs, so don’t risk taking lots of cash with you. There is no need to risk losing a large amount of money. Many shops, restaurants, and bars also take credit cards so you will be fine with smaller quantities of cash.
Expensive jewelry can make you a target for pickpockets and scammers. It can also very easily get lost, damaged, or broken. Leave these items at home so you won’t need to worry about them while you are on your trip.
The majority of the time in Cancún it’s hot. Even when it’s wet, it’s still warm. Pack for hot weather with a chance of rain – leave the cold weather gear at home! Go for lighter, quick-dry items instead.
It is illegal to bring many types of fruits into Mexico. If you are going to pack food for the flight, make sure you do not have any fruits when entering Mexico as you could face a large fine from customs. Besides, fresh fruit is pretty yummy in Cancún!
In this hot, humid climate, you don’t want to bring anything that won’t dry quickly or that will become burdensome once it’s wet. Leave heavy cotton items especially – think jeans, towels, sweaters – at home.
Many of the local people working in hotels, tour agencies, bars, and restaurants in the tourist area of Cancún will speak English.
It’s still very likely that you’ll run into people who do not speak English, so be prepared to use a Spanish/English dictionary and your patience. People are friendly and willing to help.
Also, many taxi drivers will only know basic English so knowing a little Spanish may help.
Many hotels or businesses will accept USD in Cancún, although it is not recommended to spend in USD. You will almost always get an unfavorable rate or simply be ripped off. Try to always deal in the local currency if you can help it, and familiarize yourself with the appropriate prices before making big purchases.
Tips are expected in Mexico, similar to the US. 15% is a good standard tip.
Many places add on the tip automatically so it’s best to check your bill – the Spanish word for tip is “propina.” If a tip has already been added, it is certainly not necessary to add more.
Baggers in supermarkets expect a small change tip, and musicians in bars usually walk around with a jar expecting a few pesos.
Most visitors to Cancún cannot handle the local water very well. It’s advised that you drink only bottled or filtered water. Bottled water can be purchased inexpensively, or you can bring your own filtered water bottle that can remove microbes and bacteria so you always have a safe supply of water on-hand. (Many filtered bottles do not remove certain contaminants – this one is a good option for Cancún)
Many people travel to Cancún and are unsure about leaving the resort. The tourist area is more than safe for visitors, although you should always be vigilant for pickpockets.
Cancún outside the tourist area is also relatively safe, though there’s not too much to see for tourists in the immediate vicinity – you have to travel a little to get to the attractions. If you are the more independent traveler type, you can save money on tours by going to places like Chichen Itza yourself from the bus station.
You can easily verify current travel warnings for your trip by visiting the US Department of State website (if you’re based in the US).
No specific vaccinations are typically required for Cancún, but check the CDC website to be sure. It is always a good idea to be up to date with all the standard travel vaccinations anyway. (MMR, Typhoid, tetanus and hepatitis A)
You won’t need an adapter for US two-pronged cords, but any electronics which have a grounding wire (US three-pronged cords) may need an adapter. Many outlets in Mexico are two-prong only, and an adapter is the only way to plug in, say, your laptop if you’re bringing it.
Travel to Cancún should be planned using many factors, but the two most important to most travelers are weather and prices. Prices peak during the winter months – December through March – and they fall again on the off- and shoulder-seasons.
Weather affects this drastically. May through November tends to be the off-season when prices are lowest, but that’s because it’s the rainiest time of year. Shoulder-seasons – the times when prices and weather balance out a bit – are early December and April.
There have been some recent crimes in Cancún which have sparked media coverage. These issues are nerve-wracking for any traveler. The best way to make an informed decision when traveling is to read up on government travel warnings for any destination you travel to. Otherwise, if you follow basic safety precautions and are cautious with your after-dark whereabouts, you’ll likely never run into any trouble.
Yes. You will need a passport of some sort – if you’re flying in, it’ll need to be a book-style passport (the standard option).
However, if you’re arriving from the US by boat or driving you can use a PASS passport card, which is a sophisticated wallet card that’s the size of your Driver’s License or ID.
Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months – the period that a US citizen can stay without a Visa.
