What To Pack For Cabo: 59 Essential Things To Bring With You

Packing time for the tropical regions of Baja California Sur, Mexico! Got a spring break vacation or an all-inclusive trip coming up but don’t know where to start when it comes to packing?

Welcome to the only Cabo packing guide you’ll ever need. For a trip like this where bulky items are not needed and shorts/bathing suits will be worn almost 24/7, you’ve got a lot more flexibility (and free luggage room)!

This post contains my top Cabo packing essentials to ensure you have everything you’ll need to bring with you to Baja California Sur, Mexico, and any other beach destinations, really! You’ll be packing like a vacation pro after reading through this post.

Many of the items in this packing list are considered essentials, which means they can be used on many other future trips, too. So if you find yourself needing to buy a lot of new things for your Cabo San Lucas vacation, I assure you, you’ll be setting yourself up for success on future trips!

The goal with this packing guide is to make sure you’re ultra prepared for your vacation in Cabo so you can spend your money and time worrying about the things that matter—having fun doing the things you love!

So without further ado, let’s dive into everything you need to pack for Cabo, Mexico!

*All of the products listed in this post are my personal tried and true recommendations and may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running. Thanks!

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Where is Cabo San Lucas, Mexico?

Cabo San Lucas, or simply known as Cabo, is a resort city at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur.

On the west side of the peninsula, you have the Pacific Ocean and on the east side, you have the Sea of Cortez. This is also known as the Gulf of California, the world’s youngest and most biologically diverse sea.

Because of Cabo’s proximity to so many major metropolitan cities in the USA/Mexico, it’s become a very popular spot to vacation for travelers looking for a quick weekend escape.

Here are some sample flight times to Cabo from various cities:

• San Diego, CA – 1.5 hours
• Mexico City, MX – 1.5 hours
• Phoenix – 2 hours
• Los Angeles, CA – 2.5 hours
• Dallas, TX – 2.5 hours
• San Francisco, CA – 3 hours
• New York, NY – 5 hours
• Chicago, IL – 5 hours
• Vancouver, Canada – 5 hours

You’ll likely be flying into the Los Cabos International Airport, about 8 miles from San Jose Del Cabo and 23 miles from Los Cabos.

From there, you’ll either rent a car or have some sort of airport transportation company bring you to your hotel/resort!

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a good, trustworthy rental car company to go with, I’d recommend Los Cabos Family Rental Cars or Cactus Rent A Car. The price you’re quoted is what you’ll pay–no surprises (unlike the American car rental companies).

I’ve rented twice with Los Cabos Family Rental Cars — love them!

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Fashion / Style: What To Expect In Cabo, Mexico

Cabo is all about the laidback, beachy lifestyle.

Due to the warm and tropical weather here, shorts, t-shirts, light linen shirts, sundresses, and sandals are all the norm in this part of Mexico. You can easily get away with walking into town just wearing swimsuits and a coverup.

In some instances, your hotel or all-inclusive resort will require more formal clothing in order to dine in some of their restaurants. They may even have evening entertainment or dancing to end the night. If that’s the case, you’ll want to save some room in your luggage for those fancier outfits.

If you do plan on having a fancier meal or two, a collared shirt and pants (for men) or sundress (for the ladies) is all you’ll really need for almost any restaurant.

And if you’re heading to Cabo for some rowdy partying, you will need to factor in some nightlife outfits! The downtown tourist district is the heart of Cabo’s vibrant nightlife scene. There is a two-block stretch of restaurants, dive bars, music lounges, and dance clubs, that surround Plaza Bonita next to the marina boardwalk.

If you are heading into town at night, either for dinner or bar hopping, I would definitely consider bringing comfortable walking shoes as opposed to a flimsy pair of flip-flops. I would also make sure to bring your belongings in an anti-theft bag!

While, yes, Cabo is safer than some other Mexican cities, it’s still something you should STILL watch out for as a traveler no matter where you go.

Here’s an example of something casual and comfortable I wore during my time in San Jose del Cabo!

Aside from that, you can expect to be in bathing suits, beach cover-ups, and sundresses (shorts and tees for the guys) almost 24/7 when you’re at the resorts.

Now that we’ve set the stage on what to expect in Cabo, let’s get on to the packing details.

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Consider The Weather in Cabo Before Packing

Typically, the weather in Cabo and the Baja California Peninsula doesn’t fluctuate a whole lot throughout the year. There might be seasons where there’s more humidity or more rain, and there might be seasons where nights are colder than others, and there might be seasons where hurricanes and tropical storms are more prevalent.

But for the most part, it will be warm and humid.

Regardless of when you visit, you should aim to have all your bases covered.

Below is an example of what weather is like in Cabo San Lucas throughout the year.

WET SEASON: The wet season runs from July to September and tends to be actually hotter than the dry season. Hurricane season starts around August, with a higher likelihood of storms from August to September. Actual hurricanes are rare though, so it’s still a decent time to visit if you don’t mind periodic rain showers here and there throughout the day.

DRY SEASON: The dry season is from December to May. Travelers will find cooler, more pleasant temperatures. Days can be hot and perfect for sunbathing, but nights can get chilly.

The takeaway: Along with your warm-weather clothing, bring additional clothing to cover your bases. Bring something for the rain (if traveling during the wet season) and bring something light for those cooler nights.

So what are the travel seasons in Cabo? 

High Season (December – April): Expect lots of sunny days and mild temperatures with highs hovering in the mid-70s and mid-80s. This is a popular time to go whale watching as humpback whale babies are calving, and gray whales are also migrating through the area.

March and April typically bring in the party crowd as the college kids are off for Spring Break. Expect larger crowds and more expensive everything–flights, hotels, and tours–during these months.

Low Season (July – September): Weather during these months, though, is the hottest, rainiest, and muggiest of the year. It’s also technically hurricane season, but the chances of a hurricane actually happening are slim. About 20% of the days will have some rain, especially in August and September.

Summer is usually a quiet time to visit, and because of this, you’ll be able to find excellent flight/hotel deals, perfect for budget travelers!

Shoulder Season (May, June, October, November): The best times for good weather, fewer crowds, and decent hotel rates are during these months. Fishing tournaments and the arrival of the first whales Oct/Nov a busier time than May or June, but it’s still not as busy as the coming winter months. Early bookers will be treated to some of the best discounts during the shoulder season!

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Consider Your Cabo Activities Before Packing

What activities are you going to be doing in Cabo? Will you be doing adrenaline-pumping activities outside of your resort? Will you be getting onto a watercraft? Snorkeling? Swimming with whale sharks? Or perhaps staying by the pool and lounging on the beach is all you plan on doing, which is perfectly fine, too!

Your planned activities will influence your Cabo packing list.

If you’re going to be doing water activities or hiking activities, there’s a lot of stuff you need to consider bringing, like water shoes, snorkeling and scuba equipment, hiking shoes, etc.

Case in point–on our last trip, we ended up doing more excursions than we had originally planned for. We hadn’t thought of bringing closed-toe water shoes for our zipline/ATVing tour in the rainforest, so we had to buy some during our trip.

We recommend thinking through your prebooked or even potential tours/excursions, reading through tour requirements, and adding those things to your packing list.

If beach lounging and eating around town is what your main objective is, you won’t need much other than beachwear and light, casual clothing.

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Packing Gear: How To Carry Your Stuff To Cabo

Before you pack anything, it’s important to start with the skin and bones of packing. Having the right bags to put your belongings in is extremely important. The last thing you want is to toss everything for your trip into a bag with no method of organization.

Why? Because you’ll find yourself spending a lot of extra time later on packing and repacking once you’re actually on your trip. Trust me, your life will be so much easier when you actually apply a strategy to how you pack.

You’ve got two options here. Do you want to go with a wheeled case or a travel backpack?

Wheeled carry-ons are awesome in that they are pretty much weightless on your body, you just roll and go.

The other option is a backpack. Travel packs are so convenient when it comes to hands-free commuting. As you’ll likely be needing a taxi, car, or car service to get around Cabo and not lugging your bags around on foot, you could really go with either option.

1. Wheeled carry-on

If I can, I’ll always go with carry-on luggage before opting for a checked bag. Why? You can just get through the airport so much faster without a checked bag!

Personally, I love Monos Travel luggage. Their pieces meet all the important criteria when looking for luggage — design, quality, and sustainability!

If you’re looking for premium, minimalist luggage built with only the finest quality materials and components, I’d recommend you invest in these bags!

I use my Monos Carry-On Pro whenever I want something sturdier than a travel backpack. This carry-on is roomy and super sleek-looking. The built-in TSA locks help to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling.

I personally own the Monos Carry-On Pro, Monos Metro Backpack, Monos Metro Duffel, and their compressible packing cubes — and have been loving every minute I get to travel with them! Am I obsessed? Just a little bit.

You may also like: 10 Best Carry-On Travel Bags For Your Next Trip

2. Travel backpack

For more adventurous trips (or trips where I’ll be on the move a lot), I’m a travel backpack kind of person; I love my Osprey Aura 65 so much.

If you plan to be doing a lot of moving around in the Baja California Sur area, this might be the better option for you compared to wheeled luggage.

This bag is incredibly comfortable to have on your back for prolonged periods of time because of its super intense hip belt (if you get it, you’ll see what I mean). Not to mention, it’s perfect for those warm travel days due to the back’s ventilation technology.

I actually went backpacking with this pack and can attest to its greatness. Totally worth the investment. If you’re looking for a new travel bag or backpacking bag, GET THIS BAG! You won’t regret it.

3. Packing cubes

You need to get these packing cubes, they are amazing at creating space in your luggage that you never thought you had. However you want to organize your clothes— by day, by outfit, by type—these will be the most useful thing you have in your packing artillery.

Gone are the days where you need to dig through your entire suitcase for that one thing you’re looking for, because you’ll know exactly where it’s at.

4. Everyday bag

A mini backpack that can fit a water bottle, phone, camera, sunglasses and sunscreen is a great option. Another good option for days where you’re not feeling the backpack look is a medium-sized, cross-body bag.

And if you’re able to find a bag that folds flat so that you’re able to stow it in your carry-on, even better! I like the Fjallraven Kanken Mini Backpack or my trusty Bellroy Sling for something simple and compressible, so when I’m not using it, I can flatten it and store it in my luggage.

For the guys (and gals too), crossbody shoulder sling bags work really well for traveling! My boyfriend is absolutely obsessed with his Bellroy Sling Bag.

Worried about bag theft? Check out this post: 10 Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags For Your Next Vacation

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Clothing: What To Wear In Cabo

5. Tops

You really don’t need that many shirts, especially if you choose versatile pieces, allowing them to be multifunctional. You can go with a mix of sleeveless and sleeved for the most part, with one caveat.

Depending on where your hotel/resort is located and what season you visit, mosquitos may be a problem. If mosquitos could be a problem, pack 1-2 lightweight long sleeves (or bring some bug repellent spray with you).

6. Pants

Bring 1 pair of long pants just in case there happens to be a chill at night or if you plan to attend a more formal event. Pants are also great for protecting against mosquitos at night. For summers, in the face of humidity, go with loose and light materials like cotton or linen.

Jeans can be way too hot for summer travel. Trust me, I’ve experienced my fair share of sweaty legs trapped in jeans. It’s pretty uncomfortable, to say the least.

7. Shorts/skirts

2-3 pairs will do. If you plan on wearing more dresses, you can definitely cut out some tops and bottoms and substitute them with dresses.

In terms of shorts, I love the shorts that prAna makes–they’re good for traveling, hiking, exploring, and downright lounging.

• Halle Short II (for women)
• Hybridizer Short (for men)

8. Leggings

Leggings are very useful if you plan on working out at the resort, hiking, or want something comfortable to lounge in on the plane ride. I love traveling with leggings and can’t really go on any trip without at least 1 pair!

A pair of lightweight leggings like Lululemon’s Fast and Free Tight is a great option if you’re looking for breathability while getting that protection from bugs and the sun’s UV rays. The best part? These have pockets large enough to fit your phone in!

9. Dresses

Plan to pack ~3 long dresses for your trip to Cabo. Long or flowy dresses/skirts are really great options if you want to save space in your luggage.

If you plan on going out at night, aim for one of the dresses to be appropriate for both daytime and evening looks. Add a nice cardigan (or even a shawl), swap out the flip-flops for your nicer sandals, and be on your merry way! It’s all about versatility!

My rule of thumb: To save room for things I plan to buy on vacation, I’ll always bring ~2 outfits less than the number of days I plan on traveling. I know historically I tend to not wear everything I pack, so I’ve adjusted for this in the packing process. Plus, everything you bring is washable and re-wearable. You should evaluate your situation and adjust for it as well!

10. Underwear and socks

Bring 1 pair of underwear for as many days as you’re going to be traveling. Sometimes, I even bring extra for changing out of bathing suits after a visit to the beach.

I also tend to bring fewer socks than the number of days I’m visiting because I find that I wear sandals more than shoes in Mexico!

These items are light enough where overpacking is not a problem.

11. Bras

Depending on your activity level, 2-3 will do. Because I’m pretty active and tend to do a lot of tropical hiking, I typically bring more sports bras than regular bras. (Plus, your swimming suit tops can function as bras too.)

In order to save on luggage space, bring less and just throw them in the wash as needed.

12. Comfortable Walking Shoes

You should at least bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes with good support and traction.

My all-time favorite travel shoes these days are the tried and true Ecco Soft 7 (they’re stylish, comfortable, and have been raved about for decades since they were first created)! The best part is that they have them for both men and women.

13. Sandals

When traveling to tropical destinations, sandals or flip-flops are a must. For sandals, I alternate between my Birkenstocks and Oofos Recovery Slides— both allow you to walk miles and miles.

We recently discovered the Oofos slide at our REI store and boy were we sold on it. From the moment we slid them on our feet, maximum comfort! It was like walking on clouds. Not only were they perfect for our vacation in Mexico, but we also now plan on gifting this to everyone we know!

For something more waterproof, going with something like the Oofos or these Nike flip-flops will allow you to hit the beach, enjoy eco-parks with water activities, and walk with comfort as well.

14. Water Shoes

If I know I’ll be going on water adventures, I always make sure to bring a pair of water shoes that will allow me to take sure-footed steps while still being able to keep my toes free. These work great for strolling through nature reserves, going on kayaking tours, or going to eco-parks.

I love bringing along my Chaco’s Z1 Classic sandals because they serve as both sandals and water shoes. Be sure to break them in before your trip!

Want something more enclosed? Sometimes, you’re going to need closed-toed water shoes, such as in the case of going on an ATV combo tour or ziplining combo tour. In these cases, go with a simple quick-drying aqua shoe.

Pro Tip: If you plan on partying in Cabo, you may very well need to pack high heels or dress shoes too. In this case, you’ll need to think a bit harder about how to pack all these shoes. If you’re checking a bag, bringing too many shoes may not be an issue. If you’re going with carry-on only, try to prioritize your ‘must-have’ shoes versus the ‘nice-to-have’ shoes.

15. Cardigan or lightweight jacket

For those unsuspecting chilly/windy nights, it’s best to have a light cardigan with you. Especially if you run cold and plan to be outside after the sun falls! That way, you won’t need to buy anything in case of an emergency.

These also come in handy at indoor establishments that tend to blast the air conditioning.

I last visited the Cabo area in March and found that while days were nice and warm (in the 80s, no jacket needed), nighttime temperatures did drop to the low 60s. Having a jacket definitely made hanging around at night more comfortable.

16. Rain jacket

Despite its warm weather, Cabo tends to get quite a bit of rain depending on the season. Rain is most likely to fall during the months of August to September.

Consider packing along a light rain jacket or poncho if there’s any potential of rain in the forecast.

This one by North Face comes in so many colors and is ultra-packable, taking up virtually no space in your travel bag at all!

17. Shawl / scarf

One of my must-haves! I’ll always have a medium-sized thin scarf or shawl in my bag.

Not only can you use them for warmth or style, but you can also use them as a coverup after beaching, as a towel, as a mat on grass/sand/dirt, as a quick rain shield, or as an emergency skirt if your bottoms get stained or soaked somehow.

And if you tend to run cold, a shawl will come in handy at the lobby, bars, restaurants in your resort/hotel. Resorts and hotels tend to have the air conditioning on, so while it may be warm outdoors, it can get chilly indoors.

18. Swimsuit

2-3 depending on how much you plan on swimming and beaching. It’s okay to pack extra, in case you need to hit the beach or pool and the ones you wore previously haven’t had a chance to fully dry yet.

19. Sleepwear / loungewear

Yoga pants and a t-shirt or workout clothes are all you need. You can really save luggage space here by choosing clothes that are multi-purpose. These items can be used as pajamas, loungewear, and airplane/road trip outfits.

Clothing To Pack For Cabo: For Men

T-shirts, tanks, button-up shirts, linen shirts, linen pants, shorts, 1 pair of nice pants (good for if you plan on going to a nicer restaurant), 2 pairs of boardshorts, 1 lightweight jacket for the chillier nights.

Consider a light rain jacket if there’s any chance of rain in the forecast. If you plan on going out, don’t forget those dress shoes!

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What To Pack For Cabo: Accessories

20. Sunglasses

Because it can get really bright during those summer afternoons.

While you’re at it, why not accessorize your accessories? Bringing a pair of sunglasses straps can also be convenient for putting them on/taking them off in a jiffy. And making sure they don’t get lost!

21. Hat / Baseball Cap

Hats are so necessary for sun protection, don’t forget it! You most definitely should have one if you’re going to be spending any prolonged time outdoors.

Baseball caps are great for more active days where you plan on hiking or getting out on the water.

Straw sun hats are better for those casual days by the pool or beach. I’d recommend getting a sunhat with a string so that you won’t need to worry about it flying off every few seconds on a breezy day.

Whenever I want to do my hair and protect my face from the harsh sun rays, I go with my trust roll-up sun hat. This hat is my favorite because it gives me the best of both worlds, a cute hairdo, and sun protection!

22. Jewelry / Jewelry Box Organizer

If you plan on bringing jewelry on your travels, you’re first going to need something to store your jewelry and keep them from becoming a tangly mess. This is where the jewelry box organizer comes in handy!

Unless there is a special event or a fancy dinner I plan to attend, I tend to skip jewelry on most days (even if I’ve packed it) because either it’s too hot/humid to want to deal with something sticking all over my neck, or I just forget to wear it.

If you do plan on going out at night, you may want to bring more jewelry to complete those going-out looks.

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What To Pack For Cabo: Toiletries

23. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is absolutely necessary. Even if it’s overcast or cloudy, the UV index can be very high, so be sure to apply whenever you’re outdoors. Whenever we head to tropical destinations with ample marine life, we always go with a coral reef-safe brand, as traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that harm our environment as well as the natural balance of marine ecosystems.

In fact, you may even encounter tour companies and eco-parks asking you to only use sunscreen and sunblock that are biodegradable, containing titanium oxide and zinc oxide only.

And honestly, it’s not enough to just buy any old bottle that has a “reef-friendly” label on it. It turns out many sunscreens claiming to be “reef-friendly” or “reef-safe” actually aren’t!

Products containing the following ingredients are technically NOT reef safe: oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene or nanoparticles. Always review the active ingredients on the bottle to be sure you’re really getting something reef-safe.

Here are a few travel-sized biodegradable sunscreens you can easily buy on Amazon:

• Badger Reef Safe Sunscreen – SPF 40 Kids Clear Sport 
• Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
• Babo Botanicals Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
• All Good Sport Face & Body Sunscreen Lotion

And on days where we are just out and about (not getting into the water)–for the face, we are absolutely obsessed with the magical Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen. No white-cast, no greasy film!

24. Bug spray

Depending on the season you go to Cabo, mosquitoes may be prevalent and you’ll want to protect yourself against bites. Typically the closer you are to trees and jungles, the more prevalent mosquitos are.

If you plan to go hiking, ziplining, or ATV-ing in the jungle, I would definitely recommend packing an effective insect / mosquito repellent. We recommend the following travel-size options:

• Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent 
• Another good option is Sawyer Jungle Juice Pump Spray Insect Repellent–because we love tropical destinations and summer camping/hiking, we always have a bottle of this at home and ready to go!

If you’re looking for more natural options, we recommend the following travel-friendly options:

• Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray
• OFF! Botanicals Insect Repellent

25. Squeeze bottles

GoToob travel bottles are my favorite thing ever. Made of high-quality silicone, they are extremely durable, have never leaked on me, and are super easy to squeeze.

26. Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer gel or hand sanitizing wipes are a must any time you’re going to be in contact with surfaces many other people have touched.

Never leave your hotel room without it! And if you do happen to forget it, remember to wash your hands often, especially before eating or touching your face.

27. Body Wipes / Feminine Wipes

Feeling a bit gross after a hike, swim, or bike ride but don’t have the time to shower right in that instant? Just whip out one of these large body wipes for a quick refresher.

And for the ladies specifically, it’s always good to carry around feminine wipes, especially for those post-beach or post-swimming scenarios. The ones I like are both very affordable and take up no space at all.

Trust me, you will feel and smell so much better. It’s always good to have a few handy in your travel backpack when you’re out on a day of excursions!

28. Shower supplies

These are usually provided by hotels. If you are particular about using your own products and brands, then don’t forget to pack them.

29. Dental supplies

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash. If you happen to forget to bring anything, you can simply ask the front desk or concierge for some.

Pro Tip: If you’ve got a lot of toiletries and plan to be moving around a lot, it may be best to keep everything in a hanging toiletry bag. These things are so darn convenient, and they’ll save you a ton of space–especially if you’re rooming with others or are dealing with a tight bathroom.

30. Deodorant

You’re going to be in the hot sun most of the time, so bring deodorant if you tend to sweat or omit body odor.

31. Makeup (Optional)

Makeup, optional?? Yes, you read that right.

Some women bring a huge collection of makeup wherever they go. I also love to wear makeup on vacations! But it’ll be hot, humid, and your face will be sweaty and oily from the sun exposure. Or, you’ll be beaching and snorkeling so much that you won’t need to wear makeup.

I find that at hotels and resorts in Cabo, one of the only appropriate times for makeup is when you’re not doing any water activities such as during dinner, at nightly entertainment shows/events, or if you plan to go out for the night.

Try to pack lighter here and bring only what you need.

32. Dry shampoo (Optional)

I try not to wash my hair every day, but at the same time, Mexico can get pretty hot and humid. A travel-size dry shampoo like this one by amika can come in handy very frequently.

33. DIY survival kit

Make a little bag of the following: ibuprofen, allergy pills, Immodium, ciprofloxacin (or whatever your doctor prescribes for traveler’s diarrhea), bandaids, floss, hand sanitizer, eye drops, lip balm, a sharpie, tape, and extra contact lenses (if applicable).

Think about the ailments you typically suffer from and have to deal with on a regular basis and adjust the contents of the bag as needed!

Pro Tip: Definitely pack some Immodium, Pepto-Bismol, and/or ciprofloxacin just in case. While the food will likely be clean, a lot of travelers’ stomachs are not used to the differences in food (especially if you’re going to be trying street food during your trip). Your stomach is probably also not used to unlimited food either! Both of these can cause upset stomachs.

Don’t feel like making your own? Buy a premade first aid kit instead–we like the simple ones by Welly.

34. Extra plastic baggies

Because you never know, but they always come in handy.

35. Tissue / antibacterial wipes

Sometimes, your hands get dirty. Sometimes, there’s no toilet paper in the public bathrooms.

36. Laundry soap (Optional)

Bring a super-concentrated soap and a handy-dandy travel clothesline so you can do your own laundry. We usually wash our swimsuits and swim trunks after hitting the pool or beach to prevent them from smelling funky.

By doing your own laundry, you can save on those insane drycleaning fees hotels charge! What’s even worse–some of them charge per article of clothing!

If you’d rather save money, simply use the soap or body wash gel provided by your hotel to wash your clothes.

37. Quick-drying towel

Travel towels are probably one of the best inventions for efficient travelers. They are light, super packable, and quick-drying. Definitely very useful if you plan on going on water-related excursions or having beach days but don’t have access to a beach towel!

This one is a great option if you’re in the market for one.

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What To Pack For Cabo: Electronics

38. Waterproof Phone Case

While most new phones are waterproof to some extent these days, they aren’t meant to stay submerged for prolonged periods of time without protection. With an actual heavy-duty waterproof phone case, you’ll have peace of mind bringing your phone with you when participating in water activities.

On our last trip to Cabo, we forgot to bring our waterproof phone cases and our GoPro camera. We totally missed out on a bunch of awesome underwater photo ops during two snorkeling trips!

These phone cases provide excellent waterproof performance housing for underwater photos and videos. They’ve been tested more than a thousand times, and the case enables you to dive to 50ft/15m of depth in water for 60 minutes without leaks.

Pro Tip: The reefs in Mexico are teeming with life, so you’re guaranteed to see something cool underwater. The very best place to snorkel is Cabo Pulmo, the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

39. Camera (DSLR or GoPro)

iPhones are typically good enough, but some higher-quality pictures definitely wouldn’t hurt. For longer vacations, I’ve typically gone with my Nikon D5500, which produces great photos that I’ll cherish forever.

These days I travel exclusively with my newly purchased Sony a7 IV! It takes amazing photos and shoots even more amazing videos.

If you plan on doing a bunch of adventurous activities (ziplining, skydiving, kayaking, paddling, ATV-ing) and/or want some underwater footage when surfing or snorkeling, you should definitely go with the waterproof GoPro.

GoPro’s are perfect for underwater and jungle adventures in Mexico. As I mentioned above, had we brought our GoPro, we totally would have captured some really cool ATV and snorkeling footage! Learn from our mistake–don’t forget your camera!

40. External battery

You’re probably going to be out all day, snapping away taking pictures… the last thing you want is to be on the go with no phone battery!

A portable power bank is a must-have, and Anker’s ultra-light, ultra-portable power bank is tried and true by so many travelers! I never embark on a day of exploration without it.

41. Travel adapter

Necessary for many international travelers heading to Mexico. If you’re from the USA, you won’t need a travel adapter as the outlets are the same as in the USA.

This one here is tried and trusted. It allows for a normal plug and has two additional USB ports.

42. Chargers

Bring multiple phone cords since they are light (and easy to misplace).

43. E-reader / a good book

With all the pool-lounging opportunities, you’ll have a lot of time to get through that book you’ve always wanted to start.

Go with the Kindle e-reader over actual physical books if you plan to read a lot– it eliminates a lot of potential weight (and waste) from actually carrying books. What better way to spend some time poolside or tanning at the beach?

44. Portable bluetooth speaker

We love listening to music when we’re relaxing in a hotel bed in the morning or getting ready for the day. The JBL Flip Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker is our go-to whenever we’re traveling domestically or internationally.

This speaker is always perfect for our Mexico vacations because it’s waterproof, meaning you can bring it poolside or beachside without having to worry about protecting it from the water!

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What To Pack For Cabo: Other Travel Essentials

45. Eye mask / Earplugs

There is a good chance there will be families traveling by plane with young children and/or babies. A very good chance. I would highly recommend bringing earplugs or headphones for your plane rides to drown out any potential crying babies! These earplugs by Mack’s are my absolute favorite.

If you plan on sleeping on the plane ride (or if you like your privacy whenever you sleep), don’t forget your eye mask!

46. Travel belt / money belt

A travel belt is a smart traveler’s best friend. They are the best thief-proof tool for airplane travel, public transportation travel, walking around abroad, and just about everything else in between.

I always, always use a Flip Belt to carry around identification, money, and cards that I want to keep safe and right by my side.

Another benefit of the Flip Belt? It’s supposed to be a running belt. I swear, this thing doesn’t budge or jiggle at all when I run, plus it’s super comfortable!

If you’re looking for a true travel belt that is large enough to house your important documents too, consider the Venture travel money belt.

47. Cash Money

While most resort areas in Mexico take card, it’s always good to carry around a mix of local currency and your home currency for emergencies.

Bring pesos with you just in case you need to pay with cash because not all places accept credit cards (small shopfronts, street food vendors, etc.).

Pro Tip: Pick up pesos from an ATM when you arrive in town or at the airport. I would AVOID foreign exchange kiosks as the exchange rates are usually not as good as the ones at regular ATMs.

48. Tickets and travel documents

Passport, student ID, medical card, proof of travel insurance, printed documents of your flight/hotel bookings, visas if you need them.

49. Travel cards

Don’t forget your foreign exchange fee-free credit cards, debit cards, airport lounge access cards, and visas.

50. Travel pillow

The turtl Pillow is the only one you need to consider for easy airplane sleeping! It comes highly rated because it has so much support, almost like a neck brace (there’s a chunk of flexible plastic in there to prop your head up). It’s warm and super packable too.

And if you’re looking to level up, the trtl Pillow Plus is even more high-tech than the original.

51. Reusable water bottle

The tap water in Mexico is not safe to drink. Instead of spending your money on plastic water bottles, bring a reusable water bottle and a rechargeable Steri-Pen (the way more environmentally friendly option).

Go with a collapsable bottle like this so when it’s not filled, you can easily pack it away in your travel bag.

For something more durable that keeps your water ice-cold for hours upon hours, Hydroflasks are my favorite for everyday use.

52. Foldable tote bag

Great for doing groceries or carrying your belongings in a pinch. Since a lot of countries are now charging for plastic bags, you should bring a bag of your own to save money and save the planet at the same time.

This option is very compactable and can fit right in your carry-on.

53. Laundry bag

Keep your worn clothes separate from your clean ones, especially when traveling to high humidity climates. When it’s humid, you’ll definitely be sticky by the end of the day. All that stickiness will transfer to your clothes. And even if you don’t get sticky/sweaty, you will inevitably have dirty socks and undies to toss in here.

I have this laundry bag set, and it’s great because it includes many size options.

54. Emergen-C packets

Emergen-C packets or Liquid I.V. Hydration Packets are a must for travel. These are a great way to support your immune system and overall health on a trip. They are light, take up no space, and are very easy to pack!

Plus if you plan on doing a lot of drinking or partying in Cabo, these supplements are going to be the most necessary.

55. Sand-free beach mat

Did you know that these days there are high-tech beach mats for sale? Oh yeah, they definitely beat your average beach towel, that’s for sure!

There are actually beach mats that are quick-drying, waterproof, and sand-proof, making setting up on the beach super, super easy. This amazing beach mat is all those things, plus it has sand anchor pockets and 6 ground stakes so that your beach mat is wind-resistant even when you’re not laying on it!

56. Snorkel gear

Bringing your own snorkeling set is pretty freeing. It means you can choose to snorkel anytime you want without having to track down a rental shop to rent gear. This is important because not all beaches have rental shacks nearby.

In addition, you’ll have the comfort of knowing the snorkel and mask haven’t been used by a million other people.

Seavenger, one of the best snorkel gear makers in the game, sells a Hanalei Anti-Fog 4-Piece Snorkeling Set that’s really loved by both kids and adults.

After doing hours and hours of research, I recently upgraded to the WildHorn Outfitter’s Seaview 180° V2. Because I tend to get anxious/nervous in the water, I wanted something that would truly make my snorkeling life easier. This full-face snorkeling mask does just that. All the problems I used to face while snorkeling–water leaking into my mouth, limited google view, foggy goggles mid snorkel–completely gone!

It’s a bit pricier than other basic snorkel masks out there, but let me tell you this thing was a game-changer for me. Being able to breathe normally through my nose underwater made this mask completely worth every penny!

57. Seasickness wristbands

If you’re prone to motion sickness or seasickness and plan on doing boating/kayaking excursions or sailing trips, you’re going to want to pack a few seasickness wristbands for your trip. These babies work by applying acupressure to just the right spots on your wrist.

As Sea-Bands are totally natural, they’re a great alternative when you don’t want to take oral medications.

58. Portable Neck Fan

For travelers who, like me, do very poorly in high humidity destinations, this one is for you. If you can’t stand the feeling of stifling, breezeless air, do not forget to pack a portable neck fan!

A constant and enjoyable breeze makes all the difference and will allow you to stay comfortable being outside in the heat for hours on end. I personally own a bladeless neck fan, but there are other more affordable fans with fan blades available too.

If you know it’s going to be hot and humid and are not good with hot weather, I beg you, pack this in your travel bag!

59. Cooling towel

For something simpler than a neck fan, you can consider a Chill Pal cooling towel to stay cool. Trust me, it will save your life from the heat and make exploring the outdoors more bearable.

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Packing For Cabo: Frequently Asked Questions

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Now you’re ready for your Cabo San Lucas vacation!

If you get nothing else out of this post, at least take this with you–

When packing for Cabo:

• pack light
• be prepared for unfavorable weather (if it’s in the forecast)
• be prepared for heat, humidity, and mosquitos (during certain seasons)
• be prepared for colder nights (during certain seasons)
• try to save room for souvenirs and local snacks to bring home!

Alright, and now that we’re at the end of this post, I think you’ll have a good handle on your Cabo packing list. Now go on, you’ve got a lot to look forward to and a lot of trip to pack for!

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Looking for more Mexico travel resources? Read next:

• The Ultimate Baja California Sur Road Trip Guide
• The Perfect 3-Day Todos Santos Itinerary
• 7 Best Places To Dive And Swim With Whale Sharks
• Where To Stay In La Paz, Mexico: 10 Best Hotels For Any Budget
• Brilliant Travel Hacks That Will Make You An Expert Traveler
• Top Travel Gadgets That Will Make Your Trip So Much Better

Not what you’re looking for? Check out all of my other helpful Mexico travel guides here!