EVERYTHING You Need to Pack for Tulum: A Wellness Paradise 🌿
Tulum is nestled along the stunning Caribbean coastline of Mexico, on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s part of the Riviera Maya, which is famous for its natural beauty, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant wellness and eco-tourism scene.
In Tulum, you can expect pristine beaches with powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and postcard-worthy settings made for relaxation. But, Tulum is more than just a beach paradise; it’s often referred to as the ”yoga capital of the world” and has endless wholesome activities to enjoy 🧘🪷
Whether you’re seeking to rejuvenate your body, nourish your soul, or simply relax in a breathtaking natural setting, Tulum’s commitment to wellness, spirituality, and sustainable living makes it the perfect place for well-being and self-discovery.
A Tulum packing list is a little different than just packing for any old beach vacation because of the incredible range activities to enjoy here. From its bohemian-chic areas in town, to its epic restaurants offering farm-to-table cuisine, and even the wild jungle, Tulum has it all! 🇲🇽
So, if you are heading to Tulum and wondering exactly what to pack, you’ve come to the right place! I spent a couple of blissful weeks here recently, so I’ve put together the ultimate Tulum packing list for you, including all my insider tips.
While this packing list is created for a Tulum trip, it can also be used if you are visiting Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Isla Holbox, which are all part of the Mayan Riviera. We did each of these wonderful locations on our Mexican adventure and I highly recommend ticking as many of these awesome destinations off as possible (a blog post on each is pending!)
Tulum is one of the most stylish beach destinations in the world, so if you want to look the part you’ve got to be equipped with a bit of insider info! So, read on to discover exactly what to pack for Tulum and get ready to explore, unwind, and immerse yourself in its ✨ undeniable magic ✨
Whatever you do, don’t show up to your Tulum vacation unprepared, as this will almost certainly be the trip of a lifetime! This Tulum packing list will guide you on everything to bring to Mexico and What ✖️NOT✖️ to Bring to Mexico too.
But FIRST, Some Important Tulum Travel Tips ✈️
🟩 Packing cubes
Do you use packing cubes? If not, I recommend using them for your Tulum trip, as they’ll seriously help organise your packing and even compress your clothes so you have more room in your suitcase. And trust me, you WILL want more room as the shopping in Tulum is incredible!
🛃 Travel Documents
Before you start packing for Tulum, make sure you have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining. Also check if you need a visa for Tulum (this will depend on your nationality). Be sure to keep digital and physical copies of all your important documents!
🪪 International Driving License
Don’t forget to bring this if you plan to rent a car in Tulum.
🏦 Banking
Many banks have yet to fully adapt to the fact that people travel more frequently, and require easy access to their finances abroad! So you may need to contact them to inform them about any upcoming travels, including where you might use your cards (just to ensure they’re not blocked in Tulum, as has happened to me several times!)
📱E-SIM
Forget plastic sim cards – they are sooo 2009! Get an e-SIM (digital SIM Card) from Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store. Since you’ll need a strong Wi-Fi (or data) connection to complete the e-SIM installation, I recommend installing your eSIM on your phone 1-2 days before you get to Mexico.
💧Water Eject App
Another amazing app to download is ‘Water eject – Speaker Cleaner‘, which will help you to clean the speaker from dust and water if necessary – it’s been a lifesaver for me. Forget putting your iPhone in rice, as this app will save you tons of money if you accidentally drop your phone in the sea or pool! The app uses a combination of sounds and haptic patterns to help get rid of any water and dust from your speaker, it’s amazing!
🗺️ How do you get to Tulum?
There are multiple ways from Cancun Airport to Tulum.
The cheapest option is to get the ADO Bus. But the best option is to book a private transfer or rent a car.
Tip: It’s better to book in advance to avoid paying double at the airport!
🚍🚏 Methods of Transportation in Tulum
Most tourists walk or bike when visiting Tulum. However, we always rent a car as then you have so much freedom and can go wherever you like on your own schedule. Although, I will admit parking in parts of Tulum can be a bit tricky as it’s a super popular place!
Tulum Tours: If you are going on excursions in Tulum you can easily use taxis or public transportation such as the bus or Colectivos (shared vans). This is perfect if you are trying to travel to Tulum on a budget. If you book day trips online or with your hotel your guide will often meet you in the hotel lobby with a small van.
We ALWAYS book our excursions online with Viator, because booking online in advance helps us plan the trip and means we don’t need to spend previous vacation days shopping around for tours and negotiating prices!
In my experience, Viator has the best prices and tours to offer.
Click below for discounted tours ↓
🗣️ Language in Mexico
In Mexico, the main language is Spanish, so it can be helpful to know a few phrases or questions in Spanish, like “Where is the bathroom?” (Dónde está el baño?) or “How much?” (Cuanta?)
🏥 Tulum Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential in Mexico due to the abundance of outdoor activities and risk of hurricanes. Getting the right insurance will save you thousands if something goes wrong in Tulum.
Nomad Insurance with SafetyWing is ideal, as it covers emergency medical evacuation and bedside visits, starting at just $42 per 4 weeks.
You can use it as a subscription service, meaning you don’t have to pay for the whole year upfront. Instead, you’re charged every 28 days, until you cancel, giving you the ultimate level of flexibility.
There’s also no limit on travel duration either, so you don’t need a return date (and a return ticket) in order to activate your insurance, making it the perfect safety net for anyone on the move.
When traveling with children, note that SafetyWing will cover up to 2 children under 10 years old free of charge!
Check SafetyWing Insurance out for yourself here:
🤔 Some Tulum Travel FAQs:
1. Is there a Dress Code in Tulum?
Tulum generally has a relaxed and informal vibe, although specific dress codes may apply at some venues. If I am being 100% honest, Tulum tends to attract a particular crowd. Like any destination you can find backpackers here, but by the beach the crowd is quite upscale and stylish!
During the day, anything goes – it’s best to opt for lightweight clothing, including sundresses, shorts, tank tops, and swimwear. I recommend embracing the tropical climate by packing clothes made from natural materials like cotton and linen to stay cool. And, of course, comfortable shoes and sandals are essential for exploring the gorgeous town and its attractions.
As the evenings in Tulum can bring cooler temperatures and if you plan to visit more upscale restaurants, having a few slightly dressier choices, such as sundresses, lightweight trousers, or a dress shirt, is best because people do get a bit more dressed up at night. In terms of Tulum outfit ideas, I also suggest brining a cute clutch bag, a denim jacket, and some statement earrings to dress things up a bit.
In essence, the dress code in Tulum encourages you to embrace the laid-back and carefree spirit while enjoying the fabulous beaches, the vibrant local culture, and the epic nightlife.
2. What is the Weather Like in Tulum?
The weather in Tulum is warm and humid year-round. The average temperatures are approximately 28 degrees Celsius, with highs reaching 34 degrees Celsius during summer months. When planning your Tulum trip, be sure to pack light and airy clothing that will keep you cool.
3. What is the Best Time to Visit Tulum?
I would say that the best time to visit Tulum is from December to April. This is considered the high season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. However, the weather is also much cooler during these winter months.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Tulum is from May to November. This is considered the low season, so prices are generally lower and there are fewer tourists. LOW SEASON = GO SEASON (for me anyway!) However, it’s important to note that this is also hurricane season in Tulum, so be sure to plan accordingly.
4. What Kind of Luggage to Bring to Tulum?
Although you can get away with bringing rolled luggage in Tulum, depending on where you’re staying this might not be the best idea. Tulum beach hotels usually don’t have elevators or flat paths for you to roll your luggage.
You might be trekking your belongings over the sand, so if you bring a traditional suitcase, make sure it’s light enough to carry (or just bring a strong man with you 😉). You can also go with a backpack or convertible wheeled luggage as a more convenient option.
However, if you stay in town you will most likely be okay with any type of luggage.
Packing List: Exactly what you NEED to Pack for Tulum 🧳
☑️ Some Obvious Things to Pack
Tip: When packing for Tulum, you will want to consider what activities and excursions you plan to do, the weather expected for when you choose to visit, and what clothing you are comfortable wearing.
Let’s start with the OBVIOUS things to pack for Tulum first. Someone somewhere is bound to forget one of these essential items:
🟠 Passport! Believe it or not my boyfriend almost forgot to pack this for our Mexico trip – it’s not even the first time we’ve had this near epic fail happen 😂
🟠Prescription Medications – bring any essential medications you need. However, it’s worth noting that pharmacies are easily accessible in Tulum, so don’t feel you need to pack your whole medicine cabinet! I usually bring Dramamine for boat rides (helps with motion sickness) and find that Antihistamines are always a good idea to bring on any adventure.
🟠 Pens – ideal for international flights and the paperwork. I never travel without a couple of biros in my bag. To me this is an obvious thing to pack for Tulum but judging by the amount of people I’ve seen queuing for pens in airports maybe not!
🟠 Credit Card – Tulum is not cheap, so I’d bring your credit card! You will also need a credit card if you plan to hire a car in Tulum.
🟠 Cash – the currency in Mexico is pesos but US Dollars are widely accepted and can usually be exchanged at your hotel. Almost all stores and restaurants in Tulum accept US Dollars, but they also determine the exchange rate offered. Often, the rate they offer is a peso or two less than the actual exchange rate. So, I would add some pesos to your Tulum packing list. Ideally small bills, as these are ideal for taxi rides and tips etc.
Unless you’re Scrooge McDuck, avoid airport currency exchanges! Their shocking exchange rates prey on desperation and inadequate planning – you’ll end up losing far more money than anticipated.
🟠 Sunscreen (factor 50+) – Packing sunscreen for Tulum is essential as it is quite expensive to buy in most shops here. My personal recommendation is always going to be SunBum as it doesn’t stain your clothes, is super easily absorbed, and the face mist smells like a banana milkshake!
🟠 Sunglasses – pack at least two pairs of sunglasses for your for your Tulum trip. Over the years, I’ve lost more sunglasses than I can count on holiday and you won’t find many stylish (but affordable) sunglasses in Tulum!
🟠 Swimwear – unless you plan to spend the entire Tulum holiday in your room I suggest packing several bathing suits for your Mexican trip! I also recommend bringing a cover up if you plan on walking through the lobbies of your resort after going swimming.
🟠 Toiletries – you’ll of course need to pack essential toiletries like deodorant, Feminine hygiene products, and toothpaste to save you any hassle once you get to Tulum (unless you plan to spend the first day hunting down some Colgate).
🟠 Socks, pants, PJs – some of the most OBVIOUS things to pack for Tulum (but easily left behind!)
🟠 Adaptor – for your electronics, unless you’re planning on doing a digital detox in Tulum! The Mexico plug type is a two-pin flat adapter. Mexico also uses Type A and Type B plugs.
☑️ Tulum Packing List: Essential Items
🟠 Water Shoes – if you plan on doing adventurous things in Tulum like visiting caves and the cenotes, you will need close-toed shoes.
🟠 Flip Flops – I personally pack about 5 pairs of Havaianas with me on every vacay as they are stylish, tend to last for ages, and are pretty affordable. So for these reasons 🩴 are one of the most essential things to pack to Tulum IMO.
🟠 Insect Repellant – This is an essential item for your Tulum packing list as Mexico is a tropical location and the mosquitos are fierce (especially in Summer). Don’t forget to apply it every evening if you’re a person that bugs L-O-V-E! 🦟🦟🦟
🟠 Hand Sanitiser – this is important for everyday life to be honest, especially if you’re a germaphobe like me! Tulum is a busy place so it’s always a good idea to have some on you. Who wants to get the big C on holiday? I always try to buy sanitiser with vitamin E in it as using sanitiser regularly can make your hands seriously dry.
🟠 Power Bank – I take one on all my travels as I never want to miss out on getting some awesome Instagram content! When it comes to your Tulum packing list, if you plan on posting your Mexico travels all over social media, powerbanks are as important as your passport!
🟠 Beach Bag – so you can store your suncream, snacks, towels etc! Did you know that you can even get beach bags with locks nowadays? These are ideal to secure your belongings while you’re doing water activities etc. I also recommend bringing a travel backpack if you plan on biking around Tulum.
Travel Hack: If you aren’t sure about how to organise your cash safely, you might want to add this genius fake suncream bottle to your Tulum packing list!
🟠 Sun Hat – one of the most important things to pack for Tulum is a hat due to the intense tropical sun and epic outdoor activities here. Although you could wait until you get to Tulum, as there are tons of bohemian shops here that sell a range of stylish hats.
🟠 Gorgeous Outfits – Tulum is such a chic place, with pretty swanky fine dining options, so you might want to dress up. Obviously normal clothes will be needed too! I recommend packing lots of maxi dresses as these are easy to pack for Tulum and can look super cute for outings during your beach vacation.
Tulum packing tip: Pack light and versatile items that can be easily mixed and matched. This will help you save space in your luggage and will give you more outfit options. Also, packing items that can serve multiple purposes is a great idea. For instance, a sarong can be used as a beach towel, headscarf, or even a blanket! And maxi dresses can be worn as a beach cover-up during the day and as an elegant evening gown at night.
🟠 First Aid Kit – it’s always a good idea to pack a first aid kit for Tulum and also on any trip in case you get some cuts, scapes, insect bites etc. I always carry some plasters in my bag, which have truly been a life saver when out and about.
🟠 Microfibre towels – this is one of the best things to pack for your Tulum trip and is always a great option for any tropical vacation. Hotel towels simply don’t do it for me!
🟠 Tech products – pack all your important tech products for Tulum, such as your Laptop, Camera/ GoPro and their chargers.
🟠 Deep Conditioner + Hair sunscreen – pool water, salt water and tropical weather will damage your hair. I’ve only recently started investing in hair sunscreen and there’s been a huge difference already to its condition, so I HIGHLY recommend this beauty hack. Plus, a good conditioner will help your hair look luscious in any Tulum Instagram snaps!
🟠 Trainers – closed toed shoes are important items for any Tulum packing list to avoid scratches and stubbed toes when doing activities like checking out the Mayan ruins.
🟠 Granola Bars – always good to pack a few snacks in your bag for early morning starts or day trips etc.
🟠 Lip-balm (with an SPF) – you will thank me later! Pack this for Tulum and any trip involving even a little sun.
🟠 Hurricane season Essentials – If you are travelling to Tulum between June and November (hurricane season), add a rain jacket and a travel-sized umbrella to your Tulum packing list.
☑️ Tulum Packing List: Things I Forgot and Regretted
Below is a list of everything I forgot to pack for Tulum and instantly regretted!
🟠 Snorkelling Gear – I wish I packed my own, as on one of the day trips we did, my snorkel was damaged, which was a bit of a shame as the marine life here is awesome!
🟠 A Good Book – if you plan to read for fun on your Tulum trip then pack at least one book for a pool day.
🟠 Waterproof Phone Case – get one with a lanyard so you can wear it in the sea – thankfully these are making a fashion comeback!
🟠 Bumbag (or ”fanny pack”) – ideal when doing active outdoor adventures like riding a bike or hiking.
☑️ Tulum Packing List: Optional Extras
🟠 Insulated Mugs – not an obvious thing to pack for Tulum, but it will keep your drinks icy cold for hours while you relax by the pool or on the beach.
🟠 Workout Clothes – Tulum is a hotspot for fitness and wellness enthusiasts. The town’s stunning natural surroundings provide an ideal backdrop for a wide range of activities like beachfront yoga sessions, meditation retreats, cycling, and outdoor fitness classes.
🟠 Dry Bag – to protect your things from water damage when doing water-based activities, which are some of the top things to do in Tulum.
🟠 Silk Products – don’t forget to pack a few items that will make your trip more comfortable. A silk travel pillow and eye mask are perfect for a long flight or bus ride. They’re also great on your hair/skin. For me these are ESSENTIAL things to pack for Tulum!
🟠 A Headlamp – if you plan on biking at night (the area by the beach can get VERY dark at night).
What NOT to Pack for Tulum 🚫
Now that you’ve read what to pack for Tulum, I wanted to give you a couple of pointers of what items to leave at home to save room in your luggage.
Below is a list of what not to Pack for Tulum, as these items are simply not practical.
✖️ Hair Dryer / Hair Straightener – The humidity makes it impossible to keep your hair looking straight in Tulum, and you will likely keep getting it wet in the sea/pool so I recommend leaving straighteners at home and enjoying the bohemian look! Plus, Hotels almost always provide a hair dryer in the rooms anyway.
✖️ Expensive Jewellery – the heat can cause swelling, which makes wearing jewellery, especially rings, not practical. Jewellery is also at an increased risk of being stolen, so if I were you, I would leave expensive and sentimental jewellery at home. I usually always pack cheaper costume jewllery for my travels instead.
✖️ High Heels – everyone in Mexico lives in sandals so why not give your feet a break and leave the heels at home! There is sand everywhere in Mexico, so sandals make a lot more sense and are far more comfortable than heels. Even in fancy Tulum restaurants, you will find most guests in sandals or barefoot!
✖️ Mosquito Repellent with DEET: DEET-based repellents can be harsh on the skin. Consider packing natural or eco-friendly mosquito repellents to protect yourself from the insects.
✖️ Plastic Products: Tulum has a strong eco-conscious culture, and single-use plastics are discouraged. Consider using reusable bags and reusable water bottles. You could also opt for biodegradable and reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin without harming the marine ecosystems.
And finally, don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure!! Tulum is a truly unique place, and there’s no better way to experience it than by exploring everything it has to offer. So get out there and enjoy it all!
Now that you know what to pack for Tulum, all that’s left to do is actually start packing. And with my ultimate Tulum packing list, you’ll have everything you need for the perfect vacay 🍍 🥥 🍉 🧳
Grab the FREE Printable Tulum Packing List ↓
Where to Stay in Tulum? 🛎️
Booking accommodation online in advance is an essential part of your Tulum trip planning. It’s super important to book a place to stay before you arrive at a new destination, especially in popular places like the Riviera Maya.
We stayed at Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort, as it’s known as the best wellness hotel in Tulum (and it gets a 10/10 from me! 👏 )
The spa here is seriously out of this world – offering a variety of traditional mayan rituals and treatments, energy healing cleanses and detox programs, as well as tons of relaxing spa rituals designed to cleanse the body and spirit 🧖🏻♀️✨🌿.
This wonderful wellness hotel features 3 on-site restaurants, a bar, and two fantastic outdoor swimming pools. It’s in a great location too, with easy access to the Caribbean sea and lots of activities like snorkelling and fishing, or going to the nearby theme parks. You can also do Group Yoga, Breathwork and Sound Healing at this amazing hotel.
Note: Children from 13 and above are welcomed here.
But if Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort doesn’t appeal, you can always look for the best Tulum hotel deals on Hotellook, which is a great travel hack as it lets you find and compare prices.
Best Things to do in Tulum 🌿
Tulum offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests, whether you seek relaxation, adventure, culture, or nature exploration, there will be tons of things for you to enjoy here!
Here are some of the best things to do in Tulum:
- Explore the Mayan Ruins: Tulum is famous for its well-preserved Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this awesome ancient site.
- Relax on Tulum Beaches: Tulum boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the clear waters, and taking in the breathtaking views.
- Cenote Diving and Swimming: The Yucatan Peninsula is known for its cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear, freshwater. Dive, snorkel, or swim in these unique geological formations!
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: Explore the Sian Ka’an, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a boat tour to observe the diverse wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and various bird species. This was one of the best things we did in Tulum for sure.
- Water Activities: Enjoy water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing in the calm waters of Tulum.
- Yoga and Meditation: Tulum is a mecca for yoga enthusiasts. It offers a plethora of yoga studios, retreat centers, and experienced instructors who guide practitioners through sessions on the beach, in the jungle, or within serene studio spaces.
- Bike Around Tulum: Rent a bike and explore the town, beaches, and nearby attractions on two wheels. Tulum is super bike-friendly and this is one of the most popular things to do in Tulum.
- Eco-Parks: Visit eco-parks like Xel-Ha and Xcaret, where you can snorkel, swim with dolphins, and experience a variety of natural and cultural attractions.
- Taste Local Cuisine: Savor the delicious Mexican and Yucatecan cuisine at local restaurants and food stalls. Try fresh seafood, street tacos, and regional specialties like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), salbutes (fried tortillas topped with meat and veggies), and papadzules (egg-stuffed tortillas in pumpkin seed sauce).
- Shopping: Explore Tulum’s vibrant shopping scene, from boutiques offering locally-made crafts to markets selling artisanal products and souvenirs. The shopping is seriously amazing in Tulum, so leave a little room in your suitcase for some souvenirs!
- Art Galleries: Discover Tulum’s artistic side by visiting the numerous art galleries featuring works by local and international artists.
- Nightlife: Tulum offers a lively nightlife scene with lots of beachfront bars, live music, and dance clubs. Enjoy a cocktail while listening to the waves under the starry sky. I personally recommend checking out Taboo Beach club – this place is a serious vibe!
- Beachfront Massages: Unwind with a beachfront massage from one of the many wellness centers offering relaxation and rejuvenation by the sea.
- Day Trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby attractions like the town of Coba, the eco-archaeological park of Aktun Chen, or the laid-back village of Akumal, known for its sea turtles. Or, if you have more time, head to Isla Holbox, which is a beautiful car-free island north of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, in Quintana Roo State. It’s part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and is home to flamingos and pelicans, as well as incredible marine life like sea turtles and whale sharks.
Hope you have an awesome Tulum trip!✌
I hope you enjoyed this Tulum Packing List, don’t forget to share it with anyone you know heading for a tropical vacay here! 🍍 🌺 🥥
If you think I’ve missed anything, do let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to add it to the list!
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