Happy Shuttle Cancun: What to Pack and Bring

Cancun's sun is intense, even on cloudy days. Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and at least SPF 30 reef-safe sunscreen. Mexico has banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect its coral reefs, so check labels carefully before you pack or buy locally.

A rash guard offers excellent sun protection for swimming and snorkeling, reducing the need for constant reapplication. Swimsuits, of course, are a given, but consider a quick-drying cover-up for moving between the beach or pool and restaurants. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings or near mangroves.

A repellent with DEET or picaridin is effective. If you plan on excursions beyond your resort, comfortable walking sandals or closed-toe shoes are essential. Happy Shuttle Cancun drivers will get you to your destination, but exploring Mayan ruins or cenotes requires sturdy footwear.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Mexico. This is a strict requirement for entry. Upon arrival, you will receive an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) tourist card, which you must keep safe as it is required for departure.

Losing it means extra time and a fee at the airport. While Mexico has implemented a tourist tax, it is often collected digitally or through airlines, so check your specific flight details. Always carry physical copies of your passport, flight itinerary, and accommodation bookings, in addition to digital versions on your phone.

Having these readily accessible will streamline your check-in with Happy Shuttle Cancun and at your hotel.

While US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, carrying Mexican pesos for smaller purchases, tips, and transactions outside major resorts often yields a better exchange rate. ATMs are available, but use those inside banks or reputable stores to minimize fraud risk. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card freezes.

Tipping is customary in Mexico, typically 10-15% for services like meals, and a few dollars for porters or Happy Shuttle Cancun drivers. It's helpful to have small denominations of pesos for these instances. Many establishments now accept credit cards, but cash remains king for street vendors and smaller shops, including those at Mercado 28.

Pack versatile, lightweight clothing suitable for warm, humid weather. For resort wear, think swimsuits, cover-ups, and casual shorts and tops. Evenings at upscale restaurants or clubs in the Hotel Zone might call for slightly dressier attire, such as linen shirts or sundresses.

When visiting archaeological sites like Chichén Itzá or Tulum, comfortable walking shoes are essential, as is clothing that protects from the sun. For water parks like Xcaret Park or Xel-Há, bring a second swimsuit and quick-dry clothing. If you plan to explore downtown Cancun or Mercado 28, comfortable sandals or sneakers are best for navigating crowded streets and uneven sidewalks.

Staying hydrated is key in Cancun's heat and humidity. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing teeth, unless your resort explicitly states its tap water is purified for drinking. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, antacids, and motion sickness pills are readily available in pharmacies, but brand names and formulations might differ from what you're used to.

If you rely on specific brands, bring them from home. Pharmacies, marked by a green cross, are common in tourist areas and larger towns. Many resorts also have a small shop with basic health supplies.

For anything beyond minor ailments, seek advice from your resort's concierge or a local medical clinic; Happy Shuttle Cancun can provide transportation if needed.