The Ultimate Packing List for Cabo San Lucas Mexico
WONDERING WHAT TO pack for cabo?
You’re in the right place, as this is the only packing list for Cabo San Lucas Mexico that you need! In it, you’ll learn what to bring to Cabo, and what to leave at home.
As I’ve been living in Mexico and traveling all over the country since 2018, you might say I know a thing or two (or 22!) about packing for Mexico.
With countless trips using just a single suitcase, I’ve become a packing pro for all Mexican destinations, including the stunning beach town of Cabo San Lucas.
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Grab your FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico here so that you have all the best Mexico packing tips in one place.
As packing in general for any trip is stressful enough, let alone packing to visit another country, you might be overwhelmed (and rightfully so).
But don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! From lounging on the beach to exploring Cabo’s nightlife, let’s explore this Ultimate What to Bring to Cabo Packing List.
Your Ultimate Cabo Packing List
1. Mexico SIM Card
📲 TELCEL Prepaid SIM Card
While in some countries, you can get away with just using WiFi — for now, Mexico simply isn’t there, and you’ll want a TELCEL SIM card.
For those who won’t have free cell phone service in Mexico, the easiest and most inexpensive way for your phone to work is to buy a prepaid SIM card.
TELCEL is the largest cell service provider in Mexico, so using this brand ensures you have the best reception in Cabo and the entire Baja Peninsula.
📲 What size Mexico SIM Card to buy
This will depend on how much data you plan to use. For those who plan to be on their phone minimally, go for this 2gb size or this 3gb card.
If you’re someone who would rather be safe rather than sorry, this 8gb size has more than enough, even if you’re watching videos and other high-data activities.
2. Reusable Water Bottle with a Built-In Filter
I personally use and trust these bottles — and I’ve partnered with the company to get you a discount on your bottles and filters.
Enjoy 15% OFF your entire Water-To-Go purchase with code SOLO15!
Wondering, Can you drink the water in Mexico? Or, Can you drink the water in Cabo specifically?
The answer is NO. Unfiltered Mexico tap water isn’t safe for human consumption, not for locals and not for visitors, and not anywhere in the country.
One of my Mexico travel essentials is this Water-To-Go Bottle, an amazing, reusable water bottle that I carry with me everywhere — and have for years!
Here’s all the reasons you’ll want to get a water bottle with built-in filter for Mexico:
- 🤑 You’ll save money not having to keep buying bottled water.
- ♻️ It eliminates single-use plastic waste from all those water bottles you won’t need to buy.
- 🥵 Cabo is hot year-round, and humid for about half the year, so you’ll need to drink lots of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- 🤢 This reusable water bottle provides an added layer of Mexico water filtration — so you don’t get sick in Mexico.
- 🦠 The three-stage filter removes 99.999999% of bacteria, parasites, viruses, toxins, microplastics and more, according to their website.
3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Do your part to practice responsible travel in Cabo San Lucas by using only eco-friendly sunscreen, like SunBum.
This Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Bug Spray Insect Repellent + Sunscreen (SPF 50) is also great because it has both sun protection and mosquito protection — from one of the best sustainable sunscreen brands for Mexico.
🩱 Alternative Option: Long-Sleeve Bathing Suit
If you want to go even more green, the best way to do that is to not use any sunscreen at all — and instead, opt for a long-sleeve swimsuit (rash guard).
4. Hangover Meds
There are all kinds of yummy adult beverages and Mexico drinks you’re probably planning to sip poolside on your Cabo San Lucas trip.
If you’re planning to go hard on the Margaritas, strawberry daiquiris, and piña coladas — DO NOT forget to pack hangover meds.
⭐️ This Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier has more than 100,000 positive reviews on Amazon, and is a best seller.
The antioxidants and homeopathic ingredients in Liquid I.V. make sure you’re not hungover the next day, and not missing out on a single second of your precious travel time.
5. Mexico Travel Insurance
Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times?
Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health on a trip.
After years of solo travel, I can say with certainty: Something will go wrong!
For this reason, I have a whole article dedicated to travel insurance, because it’s just that important.
If Cabo travel safety is on your mind, use the links below to get your FREE quote from two of the biggest names in travel insurance.
- World Nomads: Ideal for general travel and adventure travelers
- SafetyWing: Ideal for Mexico digital nomads and long-term travelers. I have been using this insurance myself since 2022.
6. Waterproof Fanny Pack Pouch
I’m obsessed with these waterproof pouch fanny packs for visiting all the best beaches in Cabo and the beaches near Cabo, like Playa Balandra Beach.
💦 Alternative Option: Waterproof Phone Holder
These waterproof phone holders are also great if you only plan to carry your phone, ID and some cash around while in Cabo Mexico.
7. Water Shoes
Having these water shoes in Cabo is a game-changer. Think of them as your trusty sidekicks, guarding you against everything from seaweed to rocky terrain.
Not only do they protect your feet from cuts and scrapes, but they also offer much-needed grip on slippery surfaces when you walk indoors with them.
8. Facial Oil Blotting Tissue
Located in the coast of Mexico, Cabo and the entire Baja Peninsula are a hot year-round 😥
Some locals even joke that Cabo has two climates: Hot and hotter, so you can expect to sweat (a lot).
These All-Natural Face Blotting Sheets with Bamboo are a quick way to dry sweat, make you feel refreshed, and look shine-free in an instant.
As someone who tends to sweat, I swear by these on any Cabo vacation.
9. Eco-Friendly Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are only an issue during the Cabo rainy season in summer when you’ll definitely want mosquito repellent.
This Cutter Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent 🍋
For DEET-Free Mosquito Repellent, this one spells pretty good — and I even got a compliment on the small once when I was wearing it.
🚫🦟 Alternative Option: Anti-Mosquito Bracelets
Not into the idea of using an insect spray (or any aerosol, for that matter)? Just want an added layer of protection against Cabo mosquitoes?
Opt for these mosquito-repelling bracelets to keep those pesky critters away without any scented sprays or creams.
10. External Battery (Power Bank)
When traveling to Cabo, you’ll need high battery-use apps, like a map app, to get help you get around safely.
Since you won’t always have access to an outlet to recharge it, don’t forget your external battery (AKA power bank, portable battery charger or portable charger).
11. Multi-Plug Outlet Extender
You never know how many outlets your accommodation will have — and you never know how far the nearest outlets will be.
For this reason, you’ll want to bring this PowerPort Cube with USB & 5-foot Extension Cord.
🔌 If you’re wondering, Mexico uses the same plugs as the U.S. and Canada. Coming from another country? You need Type A and Type B plugs for Mexico.
12. Noise-Canceling Ear Plugs
Mexico is a festive country — but this also makes it a loud country, especially in party towns like Cabo San Lucas Mexico.
If you’re a light sleeper, or even a medium sleeper, you’ll want to pack these noise-cancelling ear plugs so you get a peaceful night’s sleep.
🎧 These noise canceling earbuds also work, and if you don’t already have wireless headphones, traveling is the perfect time to upgrade.
13. Your Passport
This one goes without saying, but don’t forget your valid passport or you won’t be able to travel to Mexico at all.
Legally, your passport must be valid for another six months after the date you land in Mexico — so if you’re traveling on January 1, your passport must be valid until July 1.
🎫 Optional: Copies of Your Passport
For many travelers, losing a passport is one of their worst travel fears — and as Cabo is a party town, you’ll want to be prepared in the event of that.
According to the U.S. State Department, about 300,000 Americans report a lost or stolen passport each year 😳 so here’s what you can do to prepare:
- Take a photo of page 2 (the page of your passport with your photo and info on it), email it to yourself and save it as a photo on your phone.
- Have a few copies of your passport made; bring one of those with you and leave another with a trusted family member or friend back home.
14. Your Medications
You can easily get in meds at farmacias (Cabo pharmacies), so don’t pack the whole medicine cabinet — but don’t forget to take anything prescribed that you need.
Beyond prescriptions, you might want to bring headache, cramps, antidiarrheal, and stomach meds, like Tums or Pepto.
15. Your Debit Card
It’s smart to have two cards — one credit card and one debit card — but you will want to bring a card that gives you access to cash.
In Mexico, cash is king, and many places don’t even take credit cards, like taxis, street taco stands, mercado vendors at local markets, and more.
16. No-Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card
Did you know that many credit cards charge you to use them while outside of your home country?
This is called a foreign transaction fee, and it’s typically 2-3% of each transaction’s cost in U.S. dollars — and these can add up fast!
If you have a card that gives you travel points and rewards, that one likely offers no foreign transaction fees as a perk, but other cards might have associated fees.
Before you travel to Cabo, verify what fees (if any) your different cards have, and make sure to use the card(s) with the lowest fees while in Cabo.
17. Your Driver’s License
Planning on renting a car in Cabo? Then you’ll need your U.S. driver’s license to drive in Mexico, and also rent a car.
You can also use it as a valid ID anywhere you go in Mexico, so you can leave your passport back at your Cabo hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or all-inclusive resort.
Cabo San Lucas Packing List All-Inclusive Resort
When packing for an all-inclusive resort in Cabo San Lucas, consider bringing your own snorkel gear to ensure a comfortable fit and save on rental fees.
Personal entertainment like a Kindle, books, playing cards, or a music player will enhance your relaxation time by the pool or beach.
A reusable travel cup is necessary to reduce plastic waste and enjoy your favorite beverages — plus, they float!
While some resorts provide pool inflatables, packing your own can add a personal touch and extra fun to your poolside experience.
Don’t forget other essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to fully enjoy your all-inclusive Cabo San Lucas vacation.
Cabo Weather & Seasons
While predicting weather is difficult, we know that it’s HOT in Cabo all year-long. There’s also two temperatures: The number in degrees, and the real feel.
Since Cabo is also humid all year-long (especially in summer), add an extra 5-10°F onto the degrees numbers — because 87°F usually feels like 97°F.
Cabo Rainy Season: July to October
The rainy season in Cabo San Lucas spans from about June to October, but the worst months are usually August and September.
During this period, temperatures and humidity are significantly higher than in winter.
Due to Cabo San Lucas’s coastal location, weather can change quickly. While you might experience rain or storms, these don’t usually last all day.
Cabo Hurricane Season: June 1 to November 30
The term “hurricane season” might sound daunting, but the chances of a hurricane disrupting your vacation in Cabo San Lucas are relatively low.
However, the area has experienced significant hurricanes in the past few decades — Hurricane Norma in 2023, Hurricane Odile in 2014, and Hurricane Jimena in 2009.
Even if there’s not a full hurricane, you might encounter occasional thunderstorms, bursts of strong winds, and intermittent rain in the summer months.
To stay comfortable during these brief weather changes, here are some essential items to pack:
- Compact Umbrella for Travel: Easy to carry and perfect for sudden rain showers.
- Lightweight Rain Jacket or Poncho: Keeps you dry without overheating.
- Light Scarf: A comfortable alternative to a jacket in the hot, wet season.
- Waterproof Footwear
Best Cabo Outfits
Above, you’ve seen some Cabo outfit ideas that will help solidify your Cabo packing list. 👉 You can click on any image above to shop.
These will give you a mental image of what people mean when they refer to Cabo style clothes — but know you should dress how you feel most comfortable.
Mexico beach towns tend to be less conservative than cities, and in places like Tulum, Sayulita, Zihuatanejo, and Cabo, anything goes.
As some of the most Instagram worthy Mexico travel destinations, these places attract fashionistas who dress to the nines — but also have a comfy vibe.
🥵 Cabo Travel Tips: Besides those stylish Cabo clothes seen above, don’t forget your Water-To-Go Bottle.
This will help keep you hydrated under the hot Mexican sun, and filters your water so you don’t get sick in Cabo San Lucas.
Best Luggage for Cabo Mexico
Wondering, What luggage should you bring to Cabo, Mexico?
This depends on your travel style, but I always recommend traveling light to Mexico with carry-on luggage or a travel backpack so you can move around easily.
🤑 Bonus: You’ll also save money by not checking luggage.
Be aware that you may have to walk down sandy paths to get to your room at Cabo beach hotels. Even in Downtown Cabo, some streets have uneven paving.
With all that in mind, here are my picks for Cabo packing luggage:
Best Suitcase Set for Cabo Mexico
- 2-piece set of hardside spinner luggage (20- and 28-inch sizes; one carry-on and one checked bag)
- Reliable strength with extra-thick ABS hard shell, scratch resistant finish, and fully lined interior
- Easy to move with 4 double spinner wheels, telescoping handle, and short handle
- Expandable for up to 15% more packing space; interior organizer with divider, plus 3 zippered pockets for smaller items
As a professional travel blogger who’s traveled A LOT, I only buy hard suitcases that have spinner wheels — like this Amazon Basics two-piece set.
It has high ratings, and is a great value set that will last for years. The set comes in a variety of colors, so yours stand out in a sea of black suitcases.
Best Travel Backpack for Cabo Mexico
- Adjustable torso fit
- External Gear Attachment loops
- Padded top and side handles
When it comes to travel backpacks, there’s Osprey Backpacks — and everyone else!
Osprey is the #1 most recommended brand for backpackers and those who travel light because they last forever and have an AMAZING warranty if anything breaks (which is very rare).
While they aren’t cheap, even with heavy use you won’t need a new Osprey for about a decade (or longer).
Cabo Packing List Must-Have: Space Saver Packing Cubes
These Space Saver Packing Cubes are the travel packing game changers you need in your life!
The double zipper design shrinks everything down to its smallest possible size, so you save a little space to bring back all those colorful Mexico souvenirs you pick up while shopping in Cabo.
Essential Cabo Packing Checklist
Below, you will find the essential items that need to be on your Cabo San Lucas packing list for Mexico.
- Bathing suits
- Sarong (Cover-up)
- Rompers
- Sundresses
- Shorts
- Tank tops
- Yoga pants/Leggings
- Undergarments
- Cardigan
- Strappy sandals
- Wedges (Not heels!)
- Sneakers
- Sun hat
- Beach bag
- Evening purse
- PJs
- Sunglasses
- Toothbrush/Toothpaste
- Body wash
- Deodorant
- Razors
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Anti-frizz hair product
- Hairbrush
- Eco-friendly sunscreen
- Eco-friendly bug repellent
- Face & Body lotion
- Lip balm or Chapstick
- Headband/Hair wrap
- Hair ties for long hair
- Perfume/Body spray
- Phone charger
- Books/Kindle
- Headphones
What NOT to Bring to Cabo Mexico
Now that you know what to take to Cabo, equally as important is knowing what NOT to pack for Cabo San Lucas Mexico.
Below is a list of six items you can skip on your Cabo packing list.
1. U.S. Dollars
While some places in Cabocanc will take dollars, they do it at lower rates than the actual conversion, since they have to then pay to convert the dollars into pesos.
The best thing to do is take out pesos in the Cabo Airport when you land, but if you forget, there will be plenty of ATMs in Cabo.
2. Your Laptop (If you don’t need it)
This goes for any electronic gadgets, but definitely high dollar items like your laptop and expensive DSLR camera.
Unless you know exactly what you’re bringing it for, don’t bring something you only might use.
3. Designer Clothing
A Cabo vacation is great and amazing and all that, but travel is also hectic and things get easily lost and accidentally left behind.
Designer labels, sadly, do make you a bit of a target for thieves, and can attract the wrong kind of attention.
4. Expensive Jewelry
I highly recommend you leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewelry at home while you travel, so you don’t risk never seeing them again.
Also, Cabo is quite hot, so you might not even want to wear jewelry when you arrive, so you might skip bringing it at all.
5. High Heels
If there’s one thing you can leave off you packing list for Cabo, it’s high heels 👠
Even at the nicer restaurants, you’d still see dressy sandals and flats before you see heels in Cabo.
6. Your Whole Medicine Cabinet
Do bring your prescriptions, and anything you take regularly, but for the most part, you can buy the same over the counter medicine in Cabo you can in the U.S.
There are farmacias (pharmacies) all over town, so don’t over-pack meds or a first aid kit when you’re traveling to Cabo Mexico.
Cabo Packing List: Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to Cabo San Lucas?
When packing for Cabo San Lucas, bring lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather.
Include swimwear, beach cover-ups, and casual outfits for daytime activities. Don’t forget sun protection like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops are essential. Pack travel-sized toiletries, any necessary medications, and a reusable water bottle.
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and a waterproof phone case for beach days are also recommended.
What to wear out in Cabo?
When going out in Cabo, opt for casual, comfortable clothing during the day. Lightweight dresses, shorts, and T-shirts are ideal.
Consider slightly dressier outfits like sundresses, nice tops with skirts or pants, and comfortable sandals for evenings.
Cabo’s nightlife can be a little classy and higher-end, so you might pack some stylish Cab vacation outfits for dinners or outings.
Should I wear my jewelry to Cabo?
No — It’s best to avoid wearing expensive or valuable jewelry in Cabo.
Instead, opt for simple, minimalist pieces that won’t attract attention. This minimizes the risk of loss or theft, and keeps your valuables safe.
Leave irreplaceable items at home and bring only what you need for a relaxed, worry-free trip.
What shoes to wear in Cabo?
Comfortable shoes like flip-flops or sandals are perfect for the beach and casual outings on your trip to Cabo.
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are ideal for exploring the area and participating in outdoor activities, like hiking or riding dune buggies.
Pack a pair of dressy sandals or flats if you plan to dine out or enjoy nightlife.
Is Cabo dressy or casual?
Cabo San Lucas style is casual during the day, with tourists often wearing beachwear, shorts, and casual tops.
However, evenings tend to be dressier, especially for dining out or enjoying the nightlife.
Women often wear sundresses or casual-cute outfits, while men might opt for collared shirts and nice shorts or pants.
Some upscale restaurants and clubs might require a more refined dress code, so it’s good to be prepared with a few dressier items.
What is the dress code for a Cabo resort?
Most Cabo resorts have a casual dress code during the day, with swimwear, cover-ups, and casual attire being common.
The dress code can be a bit more upscale in the evenings, with resort casual being the norm in restaurants.
This includes sundresses, nice tops with skirts or pants, and dressy sandals or flats.
Always check with your specific resort for dress code guidelines and pack your Cabo outfits accordingly.
What to wear in Cabo at night?
For women, a light maxi dress or a stylish jumpsuit with wedge heels is ideal for evenings in Cabo, with a light sweater or wrap on cooler nights.
Men’s packing list for Cabo should include a casual linen shirt paired with lightweight trousers or chinos.
Venues in the most upscale areas of the Marina District may have a smart casual dress code, while downtown areas are more relaxed.
Always check specific dress codes for upscale restaurants and clubs to avoid issues.
If you are wondering how to dress in Cabo San Lucas at night, I recommend something a little more dressier.
Can you drink the water in Cabo hotels?
No — It’s generally advisable to drink bottled water in Cabo hotels and restaurants.
Alternatively, you can use this Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick in Mexico and helps keep you hydrated.
While some upscale hotels and resorts provide filtered water, sticking to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth is safer to avoid potential stomach issues.
Bottled water is readily available, and ensures a worry-free stay — but of course, single-use plastics are not great for the planet, so be mindful.
What to stay away from in Cabo?
Avoid drinking tap water and consuming ice made from tap water to prevent stomach issues when in Cabo.
Steer clear of unregulated street food vendors and opt for reputable restaurants.
Be cautious in unfamiliar areas and avoid isolated places, especially at night. Also, refrain from displaying valuables to reduce the risk of theft.
Should I exchange money before I travel to Cabo San Lucas?
Exchanging money before traveling to Cabo San Lucas for small purchases and tips is a good idea — but you don’t have to.
Having some Mexican pesos is convenient, but you can easily withdraw cash from local ATMs as needed.
Be sure to notify your bank and credit card companies of your Cabo travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Your FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico
Need more Mexico packing tips and suggestions for things to bring to Mexico (as well as things to leave behind)?
Everything covered in this article, and more, is on this 10-page Mexico packing checklist. Just enter your email above, and grab the FREE packing list for Mexico pdf.
This checklist for traveling to Mexico covers everything you’ll want to bring, from clothing and accessories, to toiletries and travel documents.
There is a travel checklist for Mexico, so you can check things off as you go to make sure you’re not forgetting anything when packing for Mexico.
My Final Thoughts on Your Packing List for Cabo San Lucas
When planning what to pack for Cabo, focus on versatile and comfortable items. Essentials include lightweight clothing, swimwear, and sun protection.
Remember to include a mix of swimsuits, casual and dressier outfits for evening activities.
Knowing what to pack to Cabo can enhance your travel experience, ensuring you’re well-prepared. From Cabo vacation outfits to practical items, this list covers all bases.
By understanding what to pack for Cabo San Lucas, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy your visit to Cabo and any Cabo adventures you’re planning for.