Expert Vacation Advice for Cancun Trip: Packing, Money, and Safety Tips

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around personal experiences and advice regarding travel to Cancun, particularly focusing on packing, safety, and money management for a vacation. Participants share their insights and tips based on their own travels.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a traveler, expresses uncertainty about whether to bring a purse or a wallet for carrying essentials like cash and a passport.
  • Another participant mentions that full-sized sunblock cannot be carried on the plane and suggests using a wallet-type carrier for convenience.
  • Several users highlight the importance of keeping wallets in front pockets to avoid pickpockets, sharing personal experiences of precaution while traveling.
  • One participant shares extensive experience traveling to Cancun, noting the ease of money exchange and the availability of US currency in many places.
  • Another participant mentions the safety of Cancun, emphasizing that the area is aware of its reliance on tourism.
  • One user discusses the importance of using hotel safes for valuables and suggests bringing Imodium for potential stomach issues.
  • Another participant shares excitement about their upcoming trip and mentions plans to buy sunblock upon arrival.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on specific packing strategies and safety measures, with no clear consensus on the best approach to carrying personal items or managing money while traveling.

Contextual Notes

Participants share their individual travel experiences and preferences, reflecting a variety of approaches to vacationing in Cancun.

Who May Find This Useful

Travelers planning a trip to Cancun, particularly those who may be less experienced with international travel, could find the shared insights valuable.

itsjustCarla
itsjustCarla
Messages
648
The hubby and I are going to Cancun in a few weeks for our 20th wedding anniversary and I am NOT a seasoned traveler. I knew that here would be a great place to get H-E-L-P !!

We are going with another couple & we've all decided to just take carry-ons. My questions start with....should I take my purse or just a wallet-type thing to carry cash, credit card, passport, etc?? Will they let me take sun-block on the plane with me? (I do NOT tan and I've been warned about sunburns). Any advice what to do or not to do down there??

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
No, you will not be able to carry a full-sized sunblock with you.

I'd opt for the wallet type thing to carry your cards. It's easier to keep close to you, and takes up less space in your carry on.
 
Also (and, this is true no matter where you travel), keep that wallet in your front pocket (guys, too!). That way, you don't have to worry about pickpockets.
 
sarah is right about keeping your wallets in your front pocket. something i use to do going to lots of theme parks and touristy type places in cali, i use to make sure that i never kept all of my cash in said wallet just in case. even if your wallet doesn't get stolen, you could always misplace it. i always like to have at least a small stash for emergencies on me or with my things. i never had any problems with lost or stolen wallets, but i was always glad i had the back up.
 
Hi Carla. We have vacationed in Mexico over 20 times and have been to Cancun about 8 times. Check if your hotel/timeshare has airport pick up, if so take it. Leaving the airport upon arrival is your most expensive ride (some sort of union run thing). Money exchange is easy -- ATMs are readily available. US currency can be used in most places.Make sure you visit one of the ruins (one is close, and one is farther away). You can buy sunblock down there and will need a hat. There are big grocery stores and even a Walmart in town. I can give oodles of info if you like. It is a great place but has gotten very commercial. You should also visit Xelha (?sp) a natural reserve park. Be sure to go on the underground waterfalls ride through the current there. Take a day trip to the very nearby island of Isle Mujueres and rent mopheads there to take a tour around the island.I love Mexico, it is so totally relaxing!!! Bus service to and from most places is very readily available and inexpensive. Taxi's aren't too bad there, either.Have a blast!!
Gail
 
Carla looks like you got great advice. Happy 20th wedding anniversary and have a great trip! DH and I will be celebrating our 27th on November 8th.
 
I usually carry a large bag (along with luggage) to keep a book, magazine, CD player, etc. in on the plane. I do bring my purse, but don't tend to take it anywhere once we are there. Most hotels have room safes so be sure to keep any extra money you won't need that day in the safe along with your tickets, passports, etc. in. I sometimes take a fanny pack when we venture out somewhere. Otherwise my husband brings some money in his pocket. Things are very safe in Cancun. They certainly realize that most of their income comes from tourism.Bottled water is readily available (be sure to stay hydrated) and I can attest to the wonderful bottled beer! Ask at the restaurants if their water is purified, and they'll tell you. Almost all of them are. If you're worried, order bottled water. As brochures will tell you, don't be tempted by the street food vendors. We do take Imodium with us. They also have bottled soda everywhere.Are you aware of all the timeshare people that are going to approach you? They will, starting at the airport -- if you want to go on one, make sure you get at least $200 worth of goodies, cash or excursions, for your time.
 
Harriet, congrats on your 27th! We just celebrated 25 in April.
 
gailz2 said:
Harriet, congrats on your 27th! We just celebrated 25 in April.
Click to expand...

Thanks, Gail! Congratulations to you too on your 25th! :sing::thumbup:
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Thank you all for your well wishes and advice - it is all truly appreciated. We have one week to go before we leave and I am soooo excited. I hit a few great sales today for some summer clothes.

I am planning on taking a carry-on and an additional bag...not going to mess with checking luggage in. I went on the airlines' website, and it says that all my carry-on liquids have to be 3.4 oz or less and everything must fit in a quart size bag. Am I understanding it correctly? Is there a limit to how many things can go in the bag as long as they are less than 3.4 oz. and all fit in the bag & the bag closes?

I am going to fry down there, so I'm just going to have to buy a mondo-sized bottle of sunblock when I get there. I will take a small one with me to start out with. Augh!! So many decisions!!
 
I didn't know you could get canned coon. I usually have to scrape it up off the highway.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
The_Kitchen_Guy said:
I didn't know you could get canned coon. I usually have to scrape it up off the highway.
Click to expand...

:yuck: Ewwwwwwwwww. LOL!!!!!!!!!!!:yuck:
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack for a trip to Cancun?

When packing for Cancun, consider lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather, such as shorts, tank tops, and swimsuits. Don't forget a light jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable sandals, and a hat for sun protection. Additionally, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. If you plan on visiting any religious sites, include modest clothing as well.

How much money should I bring for a week in Cancun?

The amount of money you should bring depends on your planned activities and dining preferences. On average, budget travelers can manage with $50-$100 per day, while those looking for a more luxurious experience may want to budget $150-$300 per day. It's advisable to have a mix of cash and credit/debit cards, as some places may not accept cards.

Is it safe to travel to Cancun?

Yes, Cancun is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in the hotel zone and popular tourist areas. However, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep your belongings secure. Always follow local advice and stay informed about any travel advisories.

What are the best ways to carry money while in Cancun?

It's best to carry a combination of cash and cards. Use a money belt or a secure bag to keep your cash and cards safe. Limit the amount of cash you carry and use ATMs located in secure areas or bank branches. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.

What safety tips should I keep in mind while in Cancun?

To stay safe in Cancun, avoid displaying expensive items, stay in well-lit and populated areas at night, and use reputable transportation services. Always keep your hotel information handy and consider using hotel safes for valuables. Be cautious when consuming alcohol and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

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