A Tulum packing list should have you covered for the essentials you need for all of the wonderful things to do in Tulum and the nearby east coast of Mexico. Whether you’re spending your Tulum vacation relaxing at a resort or you’re exploring the Mayan Ruins or jumping into a cenote, this complete checklist will have you covered.
Skye Gilkeson
Flowy maxi dresses and bare feet are essentials in your Tulum Packing List. © Pat Russo
The Ultimate Tulum Packing List
Whether you’re in town for a yoga retreat or hens week, there is something in Tulum to suit everyone. So, of course, your Tulum packing list should reflect exactly what you plan to do during your vacation.
We’ve created a Mexico packing list with beach essentials and anything additional you might need for any Riviera Maya excursions or day trips from Tulum too.
Never fear if you forget to pack something as there are some cute shopping in town full of Tulum outfit ideas if you are trying to curate those perfect social media fits.
The best luggage Tulum is really just whichever type of bag or case suits your style of travel. We love our Lojel suitcases as they ar super hardy with 4 wheels, a hard side shell, and flip top opening.
Read Next | Tulum Travel Tips for the First-Time Visitor
If you forget anything there are Tulum boutiques to fill the gaps. © Pat Russo
Tank tops, shorts, and sandals will be your uniform in hot Tulum. © Pat Russo
Tulum Packing List: Clothing
Contents
This Tulum packing list features essential items which will ensure you’re comfortable in the warm weather.
Bathing suit
A bathing suit is essential for a Tulum trip. With any luck, you’ll be spending a lot of time at the beach or in your hotel pool.
The style of this wrap bathing suit as it is versatile. Wear it to the beach and then slip on some jean shorts and a hat for a walk through town or to go to lunch.
Flowy dresses
Flowy dresses are the best things to wear in the Tulum humidity and will take you from the pool to lunch in comfort without having to go to your hotel room to change.
Choose a dress like this affordable maxi dress in cotton or linen. These cotton maxi dresses are also amazing if you have more of a budget.
Playsuits and Rompers
Playsuits are rompers that are ideal for Tulum as they are super comfortable to wear when walking or bike riding around downtown Tulum.
These gorgeous Spell rompers and cotton jumpsuits are beautifully made and are the bohemian style suited to Tulum.
Cover-ups
The beauty of Tulum being such a casual resort town is you can walk around Tulum Pueblo comfortably in swimmers, a cover-up, and flip-flops.
Sarong
A sarong or pareo is a really versatile travel accessory.
Wrap it around you when walking to and from the hotel pool, wear it as a wrap skirt, or use it as a light cover-up on a long flight or day trip to the local temples.
Tank tops
Tank tops in different colors are really practical for Tulum. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo so they breathe in the humidity. Buying a set will save you money.
Shorts
Linen shorts or jean shorts are my favorite for traveling.
High-waisted linen or cotton shorts are flattering, cooler in the humidity, and perfect for exploring or riding bikes around Tulum.
Light sweater
A lightweight sweater is important, especially if you are visiting Tulum between December and March when the wind can pick up and the evenings can be cool.
Pick a neutral color that you can mix and match with all your clothes and take it out in the evenings just in case the temperature drops.
Non-Iron Chinos
A pair of chinos for men who want to dine at the fancier restaurants. These good-value no iron chinos are a good option.
Light Jacket
If you are visiting Tulum in the rainy season, a light jacket may come in handy. A thin packable jacket is probably all you’ll need.
Tulum Packing List: Sunglasses, Shoes, and Hats
Polarised sunglasses
Folding sunglasses save space and reduce the risk that they’ll get crushed or scratched on the journey.
Sun hat
A sun hat is important for the tropical climate as temperatures in summer can reach 90F/32F in high summer.
A packable hat is a great idea for sun protection and saves on luggage space.
Hat clip
Don’t forget a handy hat clip too so you won’t lose track of your hat while you’re out at about. It easily clips to your beach bag so it’s out of your hands.
Strappy sandals
Ditch the high heels in Tulum for cute sandals instead. Albeit trendy, this is a laid-back beach vacation destination where bare feet are common too.
Try to avoid wearing cheap flip-flops for your whole trip and invest in some sandals that support your arches.
These sandals are made to support your feet during all of that walking.
Water shoes
Water shoes are a great option if you plan on doing a cenotes tour.
Comfortable shoes
Lightweight trainers are particularly important for any day trip from Tulum.
Whether you are visiting the C