The following guest packing list is brought to you by Melissa Shearer. See all packing list posts here.
When most hear the words “Cabo San Lucas” their mind generally conjures up images of Laguna Beach or paparazzi outtakes from the latest celebrity gossip magazine.
Cabo San Lucas, at the very tip of Mexico’s Baja peninsula, has been an increasingly popular hotspot for vacationers – especially those looking for an all-inclusive resort to spend a week at to enjoy some fun and sun. It’s safe to say the majority of your days will be spent in a bikini (or other bathing attire) while you relax at your hotel’s pool or on the beach.
Some days, however, you may choose to do partake in some fun activities such as town tours, quad biking, horseback riding, and the like. Regardless of whether you spend evenings at your resort, or partying it up at many of the clubs in the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas – you’ll want to look nice.
The following packing list is what I brought with me on my two trips to Cabo San Lucas.
Daytime
Generally speaking, when in Cabo San Lucas, days are spent lounging by the beach or at your resort’s pool (or swim up bar!). While there are activities and tours that you can take, most people go to Cabo for some relaxation. Most of your days will likely be spent maxin’ and relaxin’ – so here’s what you may need.
2-3 bikinis – one would suffice, but really – variety is nice on holiday.
2 skirts
2 pairs of shorts
4-5 tank tops/t-shirts
1 bathing suit cover up
1 sarong
1 sunhat
1 pair of sunglasses
1 pair of flip flops
1 pair of running shoes – in the event that you do go out and do some sort of adventure activity.
Sunscreen – don’t underestimate the Mexican sun – on my first trip to Mexico I got 2nd degree sunburn! {Editor’s note: Never forget the beach/sun safety packing list!}
Beach bag – to bring what you need down to the pool or beach. {Editor’s note: A stuffable bag is great for this. So is a Baggu shopping bag!}
Nighttime
From my experience, my evenings were spent going to dinner at my resort, watching the night show and then heading out into the town to go to some of the many amazing clubs and bars that the city has to offer.
1 pair of dressy shorts
2-3 nice tops
1 pair of comfortable shoes – neutral-coloured heels or wedges.
2-3 ‘going out’ dresses {Editor’s note: The Chrysalis Cardi is a great multi-functional dress that can be worn many ways.}
1 pair of flats – {Editor’s note: A pair of spare soles might work.}
A small clutch
Electronics
You likely wont be needing much in terms of electronics, since you’re probably here on vacation, hoping to get away from the stresses of your job and every day life. However there are a few that you may want to consider bringing.
iPod
Small point and shoot camera
{Editor’s note: Investing in an iPhone or iPad can cover many of these electronics needs.}
Toiletries
Moisturizer
Deodorant – I like Secret Clinical Protection Waterproof – it lasts for 24hrs and is WATERPROOF!
Aloe Vera gel/ After-sun cream
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Shampoo & Conditioner – although many resorts provide some.
Body Wash – again, the resort will likely provide soap – but in case you just want your own.
Editor’s note: Check out the best toiletries for carry-on travel.
Birth Control – whether it’s pills or condoms – always play safe!
Diva Cup – if you are so lucky to have a visit from Aunt Flo during your beach vacation.
Baby Powder – in case you get a bit of chub rub between your thighs like me – we can’t all be skinny goddesses.
Lip gloss, mascara, eyeshadow – just the basics.
Razor – the last thing you want is to look like sasquatch at the beach!
Hair ties and/or clips – {Editor’s note: Headbands are also great for travelers!}
Other
7 pairs of underwear – I always take 1 for each day – because I’m on vacation and don’t want to wash my knickers in the sink!
2-3 pairs of socks
A few pieces of inexpensive jewelry – to dress up your outfits at night.
I know it probably sounds like a lot – but it really isn’t. Most things will fold up really small and shouldn’t take up much room. Cabo San Lucas is a great city – be sure that you make it off the resort’s property and have a good look around!
Book a Viator Tour for Your Trip to Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas Downtown Food and Tacos Tasting Experience ↗
With a professional guide from Juan More Taco food tours, discover local foodie hotspots and traditional dishes while exploring the vibrant downtown district of Cabo San Lucas.
Luxury Catamaran Whale Watching Cabo San Lucas ↗
Increase your chances of humpback whales in the wild during a luxury whale-watching tour by catamaran from Cabo San Lucas.
About the author: Melissa Shearer was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. She was bitten by the travel bug at a young age, thanks to annual family vacations to Disney World. Since then she has been to nearly twenty countries and is currently on a round-the-world adventure. As a 20-something with a penchant for adventure, Melissa doesn’t shy away from anything – she’s skydived, bungee jumped, and gone on culinary conquests – eating random delicacies from around the world including kangaroo, jellyfish and crickets. Melissa shares her adventures and love of travel over at The Mellyboo Project where she hopes to infect others with the travel bug.
Book a Viator Tour Before You Go
Cabo San Lucas Marine Park Snorkeling tour – $45.00*
Enjoy a snorkeling and sightseeing tour around Cabo San Lucas’ Land’s End area.
Book Your Accommodation Before You Go
- Baja Cactus Hostel– Cabo San Lucas
- See more hotels and resorts available in Cabo San Lucas.
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I have been to Cabo several times and have appreciated having one sweatshirt for sometimes cooler evenings.
This info was great! I have already planned on bringing most of the items listed except for a couple awesome ideas haha, the bag to take down to the beach, the clutch purse, and flats. Thanks,
Making your lists downloadable or exportable into Excel would be amazing!
Thanks. This is helpful.
Hi – few things missing off this list:
– a cardigan or scarf for evening/if it gets cool or windy
– something to sleep in!