What to Pack For a Vacation in Cancun, From Swimwear to a High-Tech Fanny Pack

Get the Full StoryAs a New York City resident, I'm highly accustomed to life on the go. My days are filled with appointments, events, meet-ups, and more. I like to vacation in this same fashion, jam-packing my itineraries with thrilling activities and local adventures. I rode an elephant in Bangkok and went ATV-riding through the desert in Cabo. Horseback-riding along a glacier made the list on my Iceland visit and zip-lining is at the top of my agenda when in Hawaii. I always travel to experience the culture, and booking adrenaline-boosting excursions is one of my favorite ways to see a city.

Recently, a friend was praising the time she had at an all-inclusive hotel in the Caribbean. She explained that the accommodations, food, and activities were all included in the cost of stay. When I doubted that you could get a local experience from staying at only one property, she challenged it with a whole host of cultural experiences that she'd had at the hotel.

Interested to see if I could enjoy the same local flavors at a single property, I flew to Cancun where I stayed at the Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort, the megabrand's first all-inclusive property. Over my four nights at the resort, I discovered the similarities between vacationing at an Airbnb or boutique hotel and having the all-inclusive experience. Now, as a seasoned traveler to Cancun with five trips under my belt or fanny pack, as the case may be , I've become pretty familiar with how to pack for this Mexican getaway.

Best Packing Tips For Cancun

Thanks to the year-round tropical climate in Cancun the average temperature is 80-100 degrees Fahrenheit , you don't have to worry about bulky coats or winter wear. Instead, use your luggage real estate for multiple bathing suits, breathable outfits, and plenty of sunscreen.

Your days will be spent poolside or on the beach, sipping colorful drinks and eating your weight in tacos and ceviche. The Mexican island is filled with grab-and-go spots I highly recommend indulging in the street food, specifically the taco trucks , along with fancier eateries where more formal clothing and nice shoes will be required I bring two pairs of heels, one kitten and one high .

If you're in the mood for nightlife, Cancun has a great scene downtown where you can find hole-in-the-wall bars, speciality lounges, and tons of clubs. For those who favor a more tranquil holiday, there is also a great spa scene on the island.

Whatever brings you to this sun-kissed hotspot, find out what to include in your suitcase in my list of packing tips for Cancun.

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