MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Cabo San Lucas

What to Pack for Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Clothing Recommendations

Cabo San Lucas enjoys warm weather year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics. Multiple Swimsuits are a good choice.

Seasonal Attire

  • Nov-May (Dry): Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses for day; light Long-sleeved shirts or a light jacket for evenings.
  • Jun-Oct (Wet): Very light, loose clothing. A Light rain jacket or Compact umbrella for sudden downpours.
  • Hiking/Outdoor: Comfortable athletic wear, closed-toe shoes.

Cultural & Activity Dress

Cabo is a resort town, allowing beachwear in appropriate areas. For local towns or religious sites, a more modest dress code (shoulders and knees covered) shows respect.

Activity Specifics

  • Swimming/Beach: Cover-ups for resorts, Rash guard for sun protection.
  • Outdoor Activities: Light hiking shoes or sneakers, long pants for protection.
  • Dining: Casual resort wear; smart casual for upscale restaurants.

Footwear Recommendations

Everyday Wear

Pack Comfortable sandals or flip-flops for casual wear around the resort, beach, and marina.

Beach & Resort

Walking & Sightseeing

Bring Comfortable walking shoes or Athletic sneakers for exploring towns, the marina, or for longer strolls.

City Exploration

Beach & Outdoor Activities

Water shoes or sturdy sandals for rocky beach areas or poolside. Closed-toe shoes are required for activities like ATV riding or zip-lining.

Water & Adventure

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your trip. Prepare both physical and digital copies of important papers.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Valid passport (6+ months validity) and stamped FMM (tourist card).
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Policy number and emergency contact details.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Supplementary document for car rental.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Copy of records, allergy list, current medications.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flights, hotels, and tour confirmations.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Family, embassy/consulate, travel insurance hotline.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): May offer minor discounts.
  • Travel wallet or document organizer to keep papers secure.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up simplifies travel. Mexico uses 120V, 60 Hz, with Type A and B plugs (same as U.S./Canada). No Power adapter needed for U.S./Canada travelers.

Mobile & SIMs

  • Most modern smartphones are compatible. Ensure phone is unlocked for international SIM cards.
  • Local SIM cards (Airalo eSIMs also work well) from Telcel provide affordable connectivity. Requires passport to register.
  • Consider a VPN service (ExpressVPN) for secure public Wi-Fi.

Camera & Charging

Capture memories with the right gear. A GoPro or similar Action camera is great for water activities. A good Smartphone camera is often sufficient for most travelers.

Power & Protection

Data Backup & App Essentials

Essential Apps

Google Maps (offline), Uber/DiDi, Google Translate (offline Spanish), WhatsApp, and a reliable weather app are useful.

Data Backup

Regularly back up important photos and documents using cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an External hard drive.

Security Accessories

Consider an RFID-blocking wallet for credit card protection.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit prevents minor issues. Tailor your First aid kit to the Cabo environment.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

The sun in Baja is very strong. Protection is necessary even in arid areas where mosquitoes can appear, especially during humid months.

Protection Essentials

Motion Sickness & Water Safety

Remedies

  • Cabo is at sea level, so altitude sickness is not an issue.
  • Motion sickness medication (e.g., Dramamine) is relevant for boat tours or winding roads.
  • Oral rehydration salts combat dehydration from heat or illness.

Water Safety

  • Do not drink tap water. Stick to sealed bottled water or purified water for brushing teeth.
  • Confirm with restaurants that ice is made from purified water.
  • A Travel water filter bottle is a good addition for remote areas.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling/Diving

Consider bringing a Personal snorkel mask and fins set or a Full face snorkel mask for comfort and hygiene.

  • Remember Reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Rental options are widely available.
  • Personal gear offers better fit.

Hiking/Outdoor

Pack light hiking shoes, comfortable athletic wear, a small Daypack for water and snacks, and a Reusable water bottle.

  • A fishing hat and long-sleeve sun shirt for fishing.
  • Bring a large Beach towel.
  • A Dry bag for electronics.

Specialty Items

Binoculars are useful for whale watching (seasonal, Dec-April). An Underwater camera or Waterproof phone case is good for marine life photography.

  • Surfboards/Paddleboards are rentable locally.
  • Golf clubs are rentable at courses.
  • Bringing your own is for serious enthusiasts.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Advantages of Bringing Your Own

  • Assured fit and comfort for personal gear.
  • Known quality and reliability of your own equipment.
  • Potential cost savings over multiple rentals for long trips.
  • Sanitary benefits for items like snorkel masks.

Advantages of Renting Locally

  • Avoids airline baggage fees and hassle of transport.
  • Convenient for infrequent use or one-off activities.
  • Access to local knowledge on best equipment for conditions.
  • Ideal for specialty items like surfboards where transporting is difficult.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items improve comfort, security, and convenience, making your trip smoother.

Personal Comfort & Safety

Reusable Items & Local Considerations

Embrace sustainable travel by minimizing waste. Some items are easier or less expensive to bring from home.

Sustainable & Practical Additions

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Coffee Cup

Reduces single-use plastic/paper waste.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Biodegradable options for sensitive ecosystems.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Great for markets and grocery runs.

Rechargeable Batteries

Reduces waste from disposable batteries.

Region-Specific Essentials

General Considerations

  • Hand sanitizer for hygiene, especially with street food.
  • Headphones for entertainment on long journeys or at the beach.
  • A good book or e-reader for relaxation by the pool or beach.

Outdoor & Water-focused

  • Extra pair of Sunglasses; they are easily lost or broken on adventures.
  • Swim goggles for casual pool swimming or added comfort during snorkeling.
  • A travel-sized surge protector to safeguard electronics, if many devices are brought.

Packing Pro Tip

Consider packing cubes to organize your clothes and optimize space in your luggage.

Roll clothes instead of folding to minimize wrinkles and save space.