Tulum Packing List: What to Pack for Tulum

Whether you’re headed for Tulum’s pristine beaches, splendid cenotes, or historic Mayan ruins, here’s our guide on what to pack for Tulum.

If you’re wondering what to pack for Tulum, you’ve come to the right place. I moved to Mexico in 2021 and lived in the Riviera Maya for 2.5 years. I’ve needed to be just as prepared for underwater fun in the Caribbean Sea as well as jungle adventures and outdoorsy pursuits in the Mayan ruins and Tulum cenotes.

This Tulum packing list is ideal for any time of the year. As with the rest of the Riviera Maya, Tulum is a year-round destination and the weather hardly changes. Whether you’re headed to Tulum for a weekend or a few months, here’s what to pack for Mexico.

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Weather in Tulum

Tulum experiences a tropical climate with hot temperatures year round. The best time to visit Tulum is during the dry season between December and April, when there is virtually no rain. It’s the coolest time of the year with temperatures averaging around 21 to 25°C (70 to 77°F). This is a wonderful time to visit if you’re not used to the heat.

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast is also affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Try to avoid visiting during Mexican holidays as prices go up and crowds pour in during Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

The hottest season in Tulum is from May to July, when temperatures average around 26°C (79°F). This is also the rainy season, and you’ll have an increased chance of having a rainy day in Tulum. The good news is that it only rains for a couple hours at a time.

However, another important issue to consider when visiting Tulum is the ongoing seaweed problem, as sargassum has been washing up in large amounts, affecting tourism and the environment — check out my guide on how to avoid the Tulum seaweed problem.

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Dressing for the Weather in Tulum

Tulum experiences hot and humid weather most of the year, which makes climate-conscious dressing a must. Make sure to include light, breathable clothing to explore the town comfortably. Loose-fitting fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for staying cool, while a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses help protect against the strong sun.

Since sudden rain showers are common, especially during the wet season (May to October), a light rain jacket or poncho can come in handy. At night, the temperature remains warm, so airy outfits work well, but carry a light sweater for those breezy evenings near the coast.

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Tulum Packing List

My motto is simple: the less you pack, the happier you’ll be. Traveling with minimal stuff can make getting around and hopping on colectivos (shared taxis) far easier. And in Mexico, incidents of getting your suitcase broken into at an airport is not uncommon.

As you pack for your trip, try to keep these items on top of your list. Here is a packing list for Tulum:

What to Pack for Tulum: Beach Accessories

Sunscreen Lotion

With its idyllic shores and azure waters, Tulum is a beautiful destination all year. But the sun’s rays can be particularly potent, making sunscreen an indispensable companion for any beach excursion.

Always opt for reef-safe sunscreen as that’ll help protect the reef off the coast of Mexico. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen Lotion. With its potent UVA and UVB protection, it shields the skin from harmful rays while nourishing it with vitamin E.

Swimsuit

Tulum has some of the most stunning beaches in the world, from the stunning sands of Playa Paraiso to the serene Soliman Bay. I have several swimsuits but my favorite is the Aviva One-Piece swimsuit. The one-piece boasts a stylish knot detail adorning both the top and bottom, accentuated by a sophisticated cutout at the center.

Beach Cover-Ups

Beach cover-ups are not just a practical choice but also a stylish one. I absolutely love La Blanca Pareo Wrap. It is one of the first items I pack when going to Tulum’s beaches. Embracing vibrant colors and exotic prints, the beach cover-up exudes Mexico’s vibrant culture and tropical charm.

A Sun Hat

With the sun blazing down relentlessly, a wide-brimmed hat offers vital protection against the intense UV rays. We recommend Columbia Global Adventure Packable Hat II. Crafted for the jet-setter in mind, this versatile hat is the ultimate travel companion.

A Beach Bag

Whether you’re lounging on the powdery white sands of Tulum Beach, seeing nesting turtles on Akumal Beach, a beach bag ensures you have everything you need for the day, like sunscreen, a sarong and beach towel. Over the years, I have used the Drop Tracy Straw Tote for my beach escapades.

Waterproof Phone Case

If you’re planning to go snorkeling or swimming in the cenotes, a phone case is essential to safeguard against accidental splashes, sand ingress, and even potential submersion.

Since 2021, I have been using the Pelican 2 Pack Marine for my trips to the beach. And this simple accessory has helped me enjoy my trips to the beach without worrying for my phone.

A Pair of Sunglasses

Sunglasses provide essential protection against the intense UV rays, allowing you to soak in the stunning vistas without squinting or discomfort.

I recommend Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses for your next beach vacation. These sunglasses present an updated rendition with a smaller frame and softer eye shape, ensuring a comfortable fit.

Snorkeling Mask

There are plenty of amazing snorkeling sites in and around Tulum, such as the cenotes (Cenote Jardin del Eden is especially great for snorkeling), as well as the turtle reserve in Akumal and whale shark snorkeling trips you can take.

I recently bought the Panto-180 Mask Snorkel Combo on Amazon and it’s been serving me really well. Best money ever spent. Its tempered single glass lens design and seamless side windows offer an expansive field of view.

GoPro Camera

With durable design and compact size, GoPro cameras are the perfect companion for capturing spontaneous moments of joy and excitement.

I love my GoPro HERO9 Camera. With the power to take 5K video, 20MP photo capability, coupled with SuperPhoto technology, the new GoPro works so incredibly well underwater that you no longer need hefty photography equipment for quality images.

Quick Dry Microfiber Towel

Perfect for Tulum’s sun-drenched beaches, a quick dry towel is a game-changer for any beach bum. Having such a towel in your beach arsenal means, you can easily dry off after a swim.

I have used a couple over the years but the GEAR AID’s Quick Dry Microfiber towel has been the most durable. Its high-density microfiber weave not only absorbs five times its weight in water but also dries rapidly, ensuring you stay fresh and dry.

Waterproof Flip Flops

A good pair of waterproof flip-flops will keep your feet dry and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors. Many cenotes have slippery grounds and uneven surfaces that are best navigated with a sturdy pair of waterproof footwear.

I use the LightFeet Arch Support Flip Flops and I always carry them with me when going to the beach or other water activities.

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What to Pack for Tulum: Dresses and Outfits

Beach Cover-up Dresses

A beach dress is versatile and perfect for days on the beach or evening strolls in town. In Tulum’s heat, I always pack dresses made of breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon.

I really like my Cupshe’s Sleeveless Swimsuit Coverup Waffle Knit, which is unbelievably comfortable and helps me blend in with the Tulum crowd.

Flowy Dresses

Given Tulum’s warm temperatures and humid conditions, flowy dresses have been my go-to fashion item. Their relaxed fit allows for easy movement, making them ideal for all kinds of activity.

We recommend Kinstell’s Summer Boho Spaghetti Strap Flowy Dress for a seamless transition from the beach to the ruins.

Embroidered Mexican Dresses

Embroidered dresses are a beautiful outfit for those afternoon or evening walks around the town. You can find them in the market as well as souvenir stores lined up along the main road in Tulum pueblo. They’re usually quite affordable and are lightweight and perfect for Tulum’s weather.

I absolutely love my Melliflo Mexican Embroidered Dress. It’s one of the first outfirts I bought when we moved to Riviera Maya.

Lightweight Shorts

You’ll need shorts for more outdoorsy activities like visiting the Tulum ruins, ATV rides in the eco adventure parks or strolling the streets of Tulum.

I bought YOCUR Lightweight Casual Shorts and they have served me well over the years. You can pair these with flowy or crotchet tops, making them a go-to choice for day-to-night wear.

Embroidered Tops

If you not up for long dresses, make sure to pack a few embroidered tops for your trip to Tulum. With their intricate designs, embroidered tops are the perfect outfit to tackle Tulum’s warm, coastal climate.

These tops can also easily transition from a day at the beach to a night out at a club. I love this PRETTYGARDEN Hollow Out Lace Embroidered Blouse. It’s unbelievably comfortable on the skin and easy to accessorize with jewelry.

Light Cardigan

It doesn’t usually get cold at night, but bring a light cardigan for the flight or long bus rides just in case the airconditioning is too strong. I bought Mafulus Crotchet Cardigan and always carry it if I plan on staying out late.

Beach Shirts

For the men, a beach shirt is an absolute wardrobe essential when visiting Tulum. Given the sweltering conditions of the town, a lightweight, breathable beach shirt offers the perfect balance of sun protection and comfort.

They also provide a relaxed yet polished look that transitions effortlessly from day to night, making them a versatile wardrobe item. You’ll love Hestenve’s Short Sleeve Cuban Camp Guayabera Shirt. It’s super-light and extremely comfortable.

Beach Shorts

For beach shorts, we recommend Tyhengta’s Swim Trunks Quick Dry Beach Shorts. My husband loves these because they’re super-comfortable and breathable.

T-Shirts

T-shirts are an essential wardrobe staple for your trip to Tulum. Make sure to bring t-shirts which are breathable and lightweight to enable you get around comfortably in Tulum’s sweltering weather.

Aim for ones made with cotton, rayon, linen, and polyester. We love Cotrasen Ribbed Polo Shirt for its comfort and exceptional versatility.

Chino Pants

When the sun dips in the Caribbean, you’ve have to ditch shorts for chino pants. These essentially cover your legs, keeping pesky mosquitoes at bay and also keeping you warm. But they work just as fine on an afternoon adventure in the cooler months (December to April). My husband uses the Volcom’s Monty Chino Pants.

Sandals

For sandals, we recommend FITORY Mens Sandals. They are extremely sturdy and have great arch support for those long walks.

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What to Pack for Tulum: Suitcases

Hardshell Suitcase

One of the most stressful times when traveling is waiting for your luggage at the baggage claim after a flight. You’re faced with countless thoughts on the state of your luggage. Using a hardshell suitcase is essential when traveling due to its durability, security, and ability to withstand the rigors of travel.

There have also been incidents where suitcases have been broken into at several airports in Mexico. So, ensure to get a hardshell suitcase with a TSA-approved lock to deter theft and protect your belongings. We recommend SHOWKOO 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Suitcase. It’s unbelievably sturdy and reliable.

Travel Organizers

Regardless of where I travel, I always use packing cubes to maximize the space I have. These nifty little organizers not only keep my things organized, but they also help to compress items. While I’ve experimented with various brands over the years, I always come back to my trusty BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes I bought on Amazon.

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What to Pack for Tulum: Travel Gadgets

Power Bank

Bringing a power bank ensures that you stay connected and powered up throughout your travels. As you scour the bustling streets, you’ll find yourself relying heavily on your phone for activities like using map apps to get around. So having a reliable power backup is a great way to enjoy uninterrupted travels.

With its innovative 2-in-1 design, the GaNPrime Power Bank is both a 65W wall charger and a 10,000mAh portable charger. Its two USB-C ports and one USB-A port allow you to charge up to three devices simultaneously.

Charging Cable

You’ll need a charging cable to charge your smartphone, tablet, and/or laptop. Mexico uses type A and type B socket outlets, with a standard voltage of 127 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. To avoid any inconvenience, make sure to pack a power plug compatible with these specifications.

This small but essential accessory can make a big difference in staying connected and capturing unforgettable moments throughout the journey. If you want to charge different devices with varying ports, I recommend the Belkin 3-in-1 Universal USB-A Cable.

Power Strip

Bringing a power strip to Tulum is a savvy move for travelers seeking convenience and efficiency. Some Tulum hotels might not offer many power outlets so this is a must-have to help keep your gadgets powered up.

Mexico shares the same plug types as the U.S., so you can effortlessly power up your devices using its comprehensive features. I always carry my Anker 20W USB C power strip to either country. With its High-Speed 65W Charging capability, the strip ensures lightning-fast power delivery to a wide array of gadgets, from smartphones to laptops.

Wireless Earbuds

When packing for a trip to Tulum, don’t forget to toss in a pair of earbuds. Earbuds are the perfect travel companion, offering a tangle-free solution to your audio needs. These have been my lifesavers on those long day trips from Tulum. I have bought a couple over the years but I often lean towards Jabra Elite 10 for my trips.

With Jabra Elite 10’s noise-isolating design, you can immerse yourself in your favorite tunes without disturbing those around you. Despite their snug fit, the buds maintain a discreet profile, ensuring you blend seamlessly into your surroundings.

Travel Pillow

Bringing a neck pillow will definitely make long bus rides, bumpy road trips, or even car travels so much more enjoyable. It is one of the first things I pack before leaving for any trip across the country.

The roads in Tulum and Mexico generally aren’t always smooth sailing, but with a comfy neck pillow, you’ll hardly feel a bump. I have been using the Ultimate 3.0 for a few years now.

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What to Pack for Tulum: Toiletries

Menstrual Cup

Bringing a menstrual cup to Tulum is a savvy move. Not only does it revolutionize the way you manage your period on the go, but it also aligns with eco-conscious principles. A menstrual cup ensures safe and comfortable wear on your journey.

While there may be a learning curve for some, a bit of practice before your trip ensures a seamless experience. I recommend the Lunette Menstrual Cup for confidence and comfort!

Water Bottle

With tap water in Mexico being unsafe to drink, a water bottle becomes your ultimate companion, providing you with cleaner, fresher-tasting water on the go.

Good water bottles offer functionality and not just storage. My ultimate partner is the Philips Filtered Water Bottle.

Mosquito Repellent

Tulum faces a problem of pesky mosquitoes. They are everywhere and you can even hear them buzzing as you sleep. The mosquito season in Tulum usually runs co-currently with the rainy months (June to November). I always use Babyganics Mosquito Repellent Lotion. Packed with a blend of plant and essential oils, the repellent is like an invisible force field against those pesky critters.

First Aid Kit

Accidents, cuts, and bruising are unfortunately common occurrences, especially when traveling. However, being prepared can make all the difference. A first aid kit can help you tackle unexpected mishaps on the go.

Stocked with adhesive strip bandages, gauze swabs, and even an emergency blanket, it’s equipped to address a range of injuries. And with the addition of extras like a few painkillers or antiseptic wipes, it becomes the ultimate companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

Antidiarrheal Chewables

When navigating the culinary delights of Tulum, it’s not uncommon for your stomach to encounter a few unexpected twists and turns. I have had a couple of bad experiences of food poisoning. So before I go out for any trip, I make sure to pack antidiarrheal chewables.

Pepto Bismol Chewables have been my trusty sidekick in the battle against tummy troubles. Whether it’s a bout of nausea, heartburn, indigestion, or traveler’s diarrhea, Pepto’s soothing coating action provides fast relief.

Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wristband

Whether it’s enduring turbulent flights, winding mountain roads, or adjusting to high altitudes, anti-nausea acupressure wristbands are a reliable solution. Acupressure wristbands utilize the principles of acupressure, targeting the Nei-Kuan pressure point on each wrist with precision.

By applying gentle pressure with a discreet plastic stud, the bands work to rebalance the body and alleviate motion sickness and altitude-induced nausea. I have been using Sea-Band Wristbands on my hiking trips and these have been super helpful.

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What to Pack for Tulum: Travel Documents

Passport & Copy

Before you start dreaming of tacos and tequila, there’s one essential item you absolutely cannot leave home without – your passport. Your passport should be valid at the time of entry and during the period of your stay in Mexico.  It is no longer required to fill up the FMM when arriving by air.

Make sure to have a copy of your passport, especially if you’re planning to rent a car in Tulum. There are always random checks along the roads, especially the busy months. Leave your original passport in a hotel safety box, just in case.

Driver’s Licence

If you plan to explore beyond Tulum, then I recommend renting a car, as it’s the best way to get around and yet it is really affordable. Also, it’s far easier than you’d think. Roads are well-signposted (although potholed in some parts).

Search for car rentals in Tulum here!

Travel Insurance

I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID-19 coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

Credit Cards

Major cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in most parts of Tulum, particularly at restaurants, hotels, and adventure parks. As of May 2024, Tulum Ruins also accepts credit cards.

Before jetting off, check whether your credit card provider imposes international transaction fees and factor these costs into your budget. Having at least two credit cards should offer peace of mind just in case you are frozen out of your account.

Mexican Pesos

Credit cards are mostly accepted in Tulum, but some street food stalls and vegetable stands will only take cash. Most Tulum taxis also only accept cash. If you’re driving, you’ll also need cash for the tolls (and corrupt police officers!).

Avoid using US dollars as the exchange rate will not be in your favor. When withdrawing cash, always use an ATM in a bank or at the airport – these are your safest options.

Mexico SIM Card

Having a Mexico SIM card will allow you to have internet data on the move, that means access to Google Maps, Whatsapp, and apps to access your hotel bookings. You’ll be able to communicate with locals, call an Uber or taxi, and stay connected with friends and family back home.

I highly recommend getting eSIMs as they are SO much more convenient and affordable. With a Mexico eSIM (digital SIM card), you can toss out your physical cards and simply activate it on your phone through an app!

Check out Airalo’s Mexican eSIMs here. 

Boarding Pass

Gone are the days of having to print out your boarding pass and flight itinerary. Tulum Airport now allows digital boarding passes. You just need to check-in online up to 24 hours before your flight and download the boarding pass on your phone.

While you’re checking in, make sure to check if how much luggage is allowed. Most airlines in Mexico now only allows you to bring a small carry-on backpack; if you have a suitcase to carry on or check in, you will need to pay for it in advance on the airline’s website. Search for flights to Tulum here.

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Further Reading On Tulum

I hope you’ve found this Tulum packing list useful! I’ve tried to include everything you might need so you can be fully prepared for your trip and know exactly what to pack for Tulum.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments—I’d be happy to help!

Read more of our articles on Tulum below:

• How to Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
• How to Spend 3 to 7 Days in Tulum
• How to Avoid the Tulum Seaweed Problem
• 15 Free Things to Do in Tulum
• Is Tulum Safe to Visit
• My Guide to Punta Allen
• How to Visit Tulum Mayan Ruins
• Best Time to Visit Tulum
• Where to Stay in Tulum
• 30 Cool Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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