JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa: Your Packing Checklist

The Cancun sun is intense, even on cloudy days. Bring a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen, and crucially, ensure it is reef-safe. Many local tours and parks, including Xcaret Park and Xel-Há, strictly enforce the use of biodegradable products to protect the marine ecosystem.

Pack at least two swimsuits so one can dry while you wear the other, as you will likely spend significant time by the pools or on the beach at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are non-negotiable for sun protection. While the resort maintains its grounds meticulously, mosquitos can appear, especially around dusk or after rain.

A small bottle of insect repellent, preferably with DEET or picaridin, will ensure comfortable evenings on your balcony or during outdoor dining.

Before you leave for the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, confirm your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Mexico. While an immigration form is typically provided on the plane, you can often fill it out online beforehand to save time upon arrival.

Keep the small, stamped portion of this form with your passport; you will need it to exit the country. Mexico also charges a tourist tax, which can be paid online prior to your trip or at the airport before your departure. Having these documents in order will smooth your arrival and ensure a hassle-free start to your stay at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa.

While US dollars are widely accepted in the Hotel Zone, particularly at properties like the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, using Mexican pesos often results in a better exchange rate for smaller purchases. ATMs are available at the resort and in shopping centers like Plaza Las Americas, but be aware of transaction fees and potential skimming.

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid holds on your cards. Tipping is customary in Mexico, generally around 15% for good service in restaurants and for bellhops, housekeepers, and tour guides. Having small denominations of pesos or US dollars on hand for tips is always a good idea, as it is not always easy to break larger bills.

For the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa itself, think resort casual during the day: sundresses, shorts, polo shirts, and sandals. Evenings at the resort's restaurants typically call for smart casual attire; slacks or tailored shorts for men, and dresses or dressier separates for women.

For excursions to archaeological sites like Chichén Itzá or Tulum, lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and a hat are essential. If you plan a night out in the party district, more fashionable attire is common, but remember comfort for walking. When visiting local markets like Mercado 28, comfortable shoes are key, and a cross-body bag can be more secure than a backpack.

Tap water in Cancun is generally not safe for drinking. Stick to bottled water, which the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa provides in rooms, and use it even for brushing your teeth. Over-the-counter medications for common ailments like headaches, stomach upset, and allergies are readily available in local pharmacies, often at lower prices than in your home country.

However, if you rely on specific prescription medications, bring an ample supply, along with a copy of your prescription. Consider a small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is also a wise investment, providing peace of mind for unexpected situations.