What to Pack for Cozumel: The Ultimate Local Packing Guide (2024)

Packing for Cozumel is about more than just swimsuits and sunscreen. As locals and tour experts, we know the island's unique mix of beaches, reefs, jungle, and vibrant culture means your suitcase should be as versatile as your itinerary. This guide blends practical advice with insider tips from our Go Experiences team—so you're ready for every adventure, from snorkeling the world's second-largest reef to exploring hidden cenotes or savoring street tacos on a food tour.

Understanding Cozumel's Climate (and Why It Matters for Packing)

Cozumel is warm year-round, with highs of 82–90°F (28–32°C) and water temps of 77–84°F (25–29°C). Dry season (Dec–Apr) is breezy and pleasant; rainy season (May–Nov) brings humidity and short showers. Why it matters: Lightweight, quick-dry clothing and sun protection are musts for all activities, especially outdoor tours.

Packing by Experience: What to Bring for Every Cozumel Adventure

Beach Days & Snorkeling

Most visitors spend time on Cozumel's famous beaches or join a guided snorkeling tour in Cozumel. Essentials include:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (required on all Go Experiences water tours)
• Rash guard or UPF swim shirt (prevents sunburn and is great for snorkeling)
• Water shoes (helpful for rocky entries and boat tours)
• Dry bag for valuables (especially on boat or beach-hopping tours)
• Swimsuits (2–3 so you always have a dry one)

Insider tip: All our snorkeling and diving tours provide high-quality gear, but bringing your own mask or rash guard can make your experience even more comfortable.

Adventure & Nature Tours

Planning to explore the wild side? For a Jeep adventure in Cozumel or jungle hike, pack:

• Closed-toe shoes (for off-road and jungle terrain)
• Light scarf or bandana (protects from dust on open vehicles)
• Hat and sunglasses (sun is strong, even in the shade)
• Light rain jacket (especially May–Nov or for Jeep tours)
• Refillable water bottle (all Go Experiences tours encourage sustainable travel)

Local tip: A packable backpack is perfect for carrying snacks, water, and a camera on day trips.

Cultural & Food Experiences

Cozumel's food and culture tours mean lots of walking, sampling, and exploring. We recommend:

• Lightweight, casual clothing (breathable fabrics are best)
• Comfortable sandals or walking shoes
• Small bag for souvenirs
• Hat for sun protection

Pro tip: Many local markets and food stops are cash-only—bring small bills in pesos for easy purchases.

Essential Documents & Money

Don't forget:

• Passport (valid 6+ months)
• Printed or digital confirmations for flights, hotels, and tours
• Travel insurance info
• Driver's license (if renting a car or joining a self-drive tour)
• Credit/debit cards and some cash (pesos preferred for local vendors)

Expert tip: Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues. For Go Experiences tours, digital confirmations are accepted, but a screenshot is handy if you're offline.

Clothing Essentials (Mix & Match for Every Activity)

• T-shirts/tank tops (4–6)
• Shorts (3–4 pairs)
• Lightweight pants (1–2 pairs for evenings or jungle tours)
• Light jacket or sweater (for cool evenings or A/C restaurants)
• Comfortable sandals and casual shoes
• Rain jacket or poncho (especially in rainy season or for adventure tours)
• Wide-brim hat and sunglasses

Why it matters: Most tours and restaurants are casual—no need for fancy clothes. Choose items that layer well and dry quickly.

Beach & Snorkeling Gear: What's Provided vs. What to Bring

For snorkeling tours, we provide gear, but you may want your own mask or rash guard. For beach days:

• Quick-dry towel (some hotels provide, but not all)
• Insulated water bottle
• Waterproof phone case
• Portable beach blanket (optional)

Insider tip: A dry bag is invaluable for keeping electronics safe on boat tours or rainy days.

Sun Protection & Personal Care

• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+; required on all water tours)
• Lip balm with SPF
• After-sun lotion or aloe gel
• UPF-rated clothing for extended water activities
• Insect repellent (especially for jungle or evening tours)
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes (handy for day trips)

Local tip: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best for the reef and your skin.

Technology & Electronics

• Smartphone (navigation, translation, photos)
• Camera (waterproof or with case for underwater shots)
• Charging cables and power bank (for full-day tours)
• Travel adapter (Type A/B plugs, same as US)
• Waterproof case or dry bag for electronics

Pro tip: For consistent internet, consider a local SIM card—many providers offer tourist plans.

Medications & Health Items

• Prescription meds (in original containers)
• Copy of prescriptions
• Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal, motion sickness meds)
• Insect bite relief
• Health insurance info

Expert tip: Bring all needed meds for the day—some tours visit remote areas with limited access to pharmacies.

Miscellaneous Items for a Smooth Trip

• Reusable shopping bag (plastic bags are banned in Mexico)
• Spanish-English dictionary or translation app
• Travel guidebook or downloaded info
• Ziplock bags (for snacks, wet clothes, or electronics)
• Small flashlight or headlamp (for night walks or power outages)
• Packable backpack (for day tours)
• Ear plugs and sleep mask (for light sleepers)
• Travel pillow (for flights or long tours)

Insider tip: Carabiners are handy for attaching water bottles or wet gear to your backpack during tours.

What NOT to Bring to Cozumel

• Valuable jewelry (leave at home)
• Non-reef-safe sunscreen (harmful to reefs and not allowed on tours)
• Excessive cash (ATMs are widely available)
• Hair dryers (most hotels provide them)
• Beach towels (usually provided by hotels or on tours)
• Heavy books (bring an e-reader instead)
• Expensive clothing (island life is casual)

Why: Most tours provide what you need, so you can pack lighter and travel easier.

Packing Lists by Trip Type

For a Cruise Ship Stop

• Passport/ID and cruise card
• Lightweight day bag
• Swimsuit (worn under clothes for quick beach/tour access)
• Change of clothes (if planning water activities)
• Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
• Biodegradable wet wipes
• Water bottle
• Small bills for tips and purchases
• Camera or phone
• Waterproof phone case
• Tour confirmations (printed or digital)

For a Week-Long Resort Stay

• Multiple swimsuits (3–4)
• Variety of cover-ups or beach outfits
• Light jacket for evenings
• Workout clothes (if using the gym)
• Insulated cup (keeps drinks cold by the pool)
• Beach bag
• Nicer outfits for specialty restaurants
• Entertainment (e-reader, tablet, cards)
• Small medical kit

For a Diving-Focused Trip

• Dive certification card
• Dive log book
• Personal dive gear (if preferred)
• Dive computer
• Underwater camera with housing
• Extra hair ties and defog solution
• Ear drops for divers
• Dive insurance documentation
• Dry bag for boat trips
• Extra towel for diving days

Seasonal Packing Considerations

Rainy Season (June–November)

• Light rain jacket or poncho
• Quick-dry clothing
• Extra shoes (so you have dry ones)
• Insect repellent (mosquitoes are more prevalent)
• Waterproof phone case/bags
• Indoor activity options (book, cards, games)
• Travel umbrella

Tip: Rain is usually brief—plan flexible activities and be ready to adjust your schedule.

Dry Season (December–May)

• Extra sun protection (sun is intense)
• Light sweater or jacket (occasional cool fronts, especially Dec–Feb)
• Hydration pack or larger water bottle

Sustainable Packing Tips

• Reef-safe sunscreen (free of oxybenzone and octinoxate)
• Reusable water bottle (safe tap water at most resorts)
• Reusable shopping bag
• Reusable straws (many places are reducing plastic)
• Digital documents instead of printed when possible
• Biodegradable soap and shampoo for eco-conscious travelers

Why it matters: Cozumel's reefs and jungles are fragile—packing sustainably helps protect them for future visitors.

FAQ: Packing for Cozumel & Tours

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear to Cozumel?

No—our guided snorkeling tours provide high-quality gear. You're welcome to bring your own mask or rash guard for comfort.

What should I pack for a full-day tour?

Essentials: refillable water bottle, sun protection, comfortable shoes, light layers, dry bag for valuables, and a camera. For water-based tours, bring a swimsuit and towel.

Is reef-safe sunscreen required on tours?

Yes—reef-safe sunscreen is required on all Go Experiences water tours to protect Cozumel's marine life.

Are towels provided on Go Experiences tours?

Yes—towels are provided on most water-based tours. Check your tour confirmation for details.

Can I store valuables during tours?

We recommend bringing a dry bag for valuables. Some tours offer secure storage—ask your guide for options.

What's the best way to stay connected in Cozumel?

Consider a local SIM card for your unlocked phone. Many resorts and cafes offer Wi-Fi, but coverage can be spotty in remote areas.

Final Packing Tips from Local Experts

• Roll, don't fold, clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles
• Use packing cubes to organize and compress clothing
• Wear your bulkiest items (like sneakers) during travel
• Pack multi-purpose items (sarongs double as beach blankets or cover-ups)
• Decant toiletries into smaller travel containers

Before you leave, double-check: passport, medications, phone and charger, confirmations for accommodations and tours, sunglasses, and house keys.

Packing thoughtfully means you'll be ready for every adventure Cozumel offers—whether you're snorkeling vibrant reefs, exploring by Jeep, or sampling local cuisine. For personalized advice, contact our local team—we're happy to help you plan and pack for your perfect trip.