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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Mexico

Chronological Planning Timeline

Plan ahead for a smooth journey.

Your Trip Timeline

steps for your Cancun visit.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visas

Confirm passport validity for your stay.

Book Flights & Stay

Book flights and main accommodation.

Health & Safety

Research travel insurance (World Nomads) and vaccinations.

2

Month Before

Finalize Itinerary

Book tours (Chichen Itza, eco-parks) and airport transfers.

Financial & Documents

Notify banks; make document copies.

Health Preparations

Get necessary vaccinations; consult your doctor.

3

Week Before

Confirm Reservations

Confirm all flights, hotels, tours, and transfers.

Pack & Withdraw

Pack appropriately; withdraw local currency or small USD.

Tech & Home Prep

Download offline maps; charge electronics; secure your home.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these for your trip.

Reservations

  • Flights (book early for best rates).
  • Accommodation (hotel, resort, vacation rental).
  • Airport Transfers (pre-book for convenience).
  • Popular Day Trips/Tours (Chichen Itza, Xcaret).

Home Preparation

Prepare your home for your absence.

Before You Depart

  • Secure your home: lock windows and doors.
  • Suspend mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
  • Arrange for plant watering or pet care.
  • Pay bills in advance or set up automatic payments.

Pre-Trip Research

Gather information for a better experience.

Travel Advisories

  • Read government travel advisories.
  • Understand local customs and phrases.
  • Familiarize with currency and tipping.
  • Research health and safety guidelines.

Cultural Awareness

  • Read about Mexican history.
  • Practice basic Spanish greetings.
  • Explore regional traditions.
  • Discover local cuisine.

Practical Knowledge

  • Review local transportation options.
  • Identify shopping areas.
  • Plan photography spots.
  • Check weather forecasts.

Confirm All Details

Double-check all reservations and essential documents before you depart.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth arrival in Cancun.

Arrival Procedures

  • Immigration:

    Present passport, verify duration of stay.

  • Baggage Claim:

    Collect your luggage from the carousel.

  • Customs:

    Proceed through the traffic light system.

Orientation & Essentials

  • Locate Your Hotel

    Understand its immediate surroundings.

  • Identify Nearby Services

    Nearest bus stops, ATMs, convenience stores.

  • Currency Familiarization

    Mexican Pesos and current exchange rates.

Airport Experience & Transport

Currency Exchange

Withdraw pesos from an ATM at the airport or exchange a small amount.

Avoid exchanging large amounts at the airport as rates are often poor.

Local Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card for your phone to ensure connectivity.

Stay connected throughout your stay for navigation and communication.

Airport Transfers

Utilize your pre-booked transfer, ADO bus, or official airport taxi.

Confirm pricing beforehand to avoid any surprises.

Plan Your Arrival

A well-planned arrival brings a relaxed start to your Cancun trip.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth exit from Cancun.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Leave space and weight in luggage for souvenirs.
  • For large/fragile items, arrange shipping through a courier.
  • Be aware of customs restrictions for items to your home country.
  • Consider Eagle Creek for travel organization.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Mexico has a VAT refund program for foreign tourists.
  • Applies to purchases over 1,200 MXN at participating stores.
  • Present passport, FMM, receipts, and purchased items at airport.
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs when shopping.

Pre-Departure Timing

Plan your airport arrival and final steps.

Airport Arrival & Traffic

  • Arrive at Cancun International Airport:3 hours before international flight.
  • Allow extra time for:Potential traffic to the airport.
  • Especially during:Peak hours or high season.
  • Account for:Any outstanding local taxes (e.g., VISITAX).

Return Trip Preparation

  • Check your flight status the day before departure.
  • Confirm your airport transfer arrangements.
  • Pack liquids (over 100ml) in checked luggage.
  • Ensure all necessary travel documents are accessible.

Smooth Departure

Confirm your airport transfer and flight status.

Allow ample time for airport procedures.