What you should take to Cabo: Packing List Tips

by | Mar 23, 2024 | Central America, Mexico Travel, Travel Tips & Guides | 0 comments

Packing list for Cabo San Lucas Mexico

So you’re working on your Cabo packing list. You find yourself mentally scrambling to remember everything you need to prepare and pack for your upcoming trip to Cabo tomorrow! As the realization sinks in that you’ll be venturing outside the country, a wave of stress washes over you. What if you’ve overlooked something crucial? After all, you’ll be in a foreign land – what essentials must you remember to pack for San Lucas?

If you’re anything like me, you can almost guarantee that upon reaching your destination, you’ll utter those infamous words: “Oh no! I forgot my…!”

So long as you pack this comprehensive list of essentials in your Cabo travel bag, you’re assured of a relaxing, thrilling, and enjoyable time exploring the beautiful travel destination that is Cabo!

I have a complete breakdown of how to prepare for longer international trips that I encourage you to check out whether this is your first time or if you’re a veteran flyer. You never know what you might learn!

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Cabo San Lucas Packing List

 

I’ve enjoyed exploring the sun-drenched shores of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and have dialed in on my personal Cabo packing list to make the most of my vacation in this tropical paradise. From beach essentials to practical items for exploring the town, here are some items you shouldn’t leave home without when heading to Cabo.

 

1. Documents

 

As you prepare for your exciting journey to Cabo, remember the essential documents that will make your trip a breeze. Your passport is not just a piece of identification; it’s your golden ticket for entry into this vibrant destination. If this is your first time traveling internationally, you will also do yourself a favor by bringing a pen. Any time you travel internationally you will be required to fill out a customs and immigration form that will be due upon arrival. This form will ask some simple questions to make sure your entry is legal. Having a pen with you will allow you to fill out the form on the plane well before landing.

Picture yourself comfortably seated, filling out your Mexican Tourist card with ease, thanks to your foresight in bringing a pen. It’s a small gesture that ensures a seamless transition through customs upon arrival. But heed this warning: losing your tourist card during your stay in Cabo means navigating the bureaucratic maze of the Immigration Office for a replacement. And let’s not forget the potential sting of a $60.00 USD fine for the inconvenience. Guard your Mexican Tourist card as if it were your lifeline—it’s your ticket back home.

 

2. Sunscreen

 

Don’t overlook the importance of packing sunscreen for your Cabo adventure. With its sunny skies and beautiful beaches, Cabo demands protection from harmful UV rays. Ensure you pack a high-SPF sunscreen to safeguard your skin while you soak up the sun and explore all that Cabo has to offer. If you want to be extra awesome, look for coral-safe sunscreen to protect the cool things hiding under the water!

Wondering what the weather is in Cabo? Well, summer in Cabo can be hot, with temperatures often rising above 90°F (32°C) during the day. Humidity also increases due to the occasional summer rains, which can bring brief but intense showers, especially in July and August. Despite the heat, summer is a popular time for fishing tournaments and surfing, as the higher temperatures warm the ocean currents. Just make sure you add that sunscreen to your Cabo packing list!!

 

3. A waterproof case

 

Don’t forget to pack a waterproof case for your phone when heading to Cabo! With its stunning beaches and water activities, you’ll want to capture every moment, even underwater. Investing in a quality waterproof case, perhaps with a convenient lanyard option from Amazon, ensures your phone stays protected while you snap unforgettable photos in the water.

A few quick pieces of advice regarding those plastic waterproof lanyard cases:

1. Make sure you test it with tissue before you test it with your phone!

2. When in use and under water, I found the visual quality when I sorta squeezed the case around my phone while I swam so that the plastic was flush against the camera lense. This ensure there were no blurry spots from the case moving around!

4. Swimwear

 

No Cabo packing list would be complete without the swimwear! Whether you plan to soak up the sun on Medano Beach or take a dip in the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez, a good swimsuit is essential for enjoying Cabo’s many aquatic activities. Extra points for brining a beach towel but you can also use the towels from the hotels.

 

5. Comfortable Footwear

 

If you’re planning to explore the town and its surrounding areas, adding comfortable footwear to your list is a must. Pack a pair of sturdy sandals or walking shoes to navigate Cabo’s cobblestone streets and rugged terrain with ease. I recommend bringing boots or all terrain shoes if you intend to do any ATV or off-road excursions. We ended up completely soaked after our ATV ride! It was a blast but my shoes were completely wet!

 

6. Reusable Water Bottle

 

To stay hydrated in the hot Mexican sun, it’s important to carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Fill up with purified water to stay refreshed and avoid the risk of dehydration. This is especially important if you’re out walking the boardwalk during the day. It can get extremely hot and having some water on-hand will be a lifesaver. You’ll also be doing the planet a favor by reducing your plastic waste!

 

7. Camera

 

For those who enjoy capturing memories on camera, don’t forget to pack your GoPro or DSLR camera. With its breathtaking sunsets, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant street scenes, Cabo offers endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts to snap the perfect shot. If you don’t have one, you can check ahead with any companies you were planning on scheduling an activity with. Most of them will have GoPro packages for rent nowadays.

 

8. Daypack

 

If you plan to venture off the beaten path and explore Cabo’s rugged landscapes, a daypack is essential for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks. Look for a lightweight, water-resistant pack with plenty of pockets to keep your belongings organized.

 

9. Snorkel Gear

 

For those planning to indulge in water sports like snorkeling or diving, don’t forget to pack your gear. A snorkel mask, fins, and underwater camera such as a GoPro will allow you to explore Cabo’s vibrant marine life up close and capture unforgettable memories beneath the waves. If you don’t have your own, don’t worry. Most places will have them for rent but some places I’ve visited in Central America will even have them for FREE!

 

10. Travel Insurance

 

Last but not least, don’t leave home without travel insurance. While Cabo is a safe and welcoming destination, unexpected mishaps can happen when traveling. Having travel insurance will provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of emergencies.

 

 

Conclusion

 

With these ten essentials in your Cabo packing list set and ready to go, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all that Cabo San Lucas has to offer on your next vacation getaway. From relaxing beach days to thrilling outdoor adventures, this vibrant Mexican destination promises a memorable experience for travelers of all ages.