Are you planning a trip to Tulum and wondering what to wear? You’ve come to the perfect place!
Tulum is a beautiful beach destination in Mexico, known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins.
It’s a great place to visit all year round since it’s always warm but it’s important to pack carefully since it can get very hot, especially if you go to the ruins.
Packing light, breathable clothing is key, but don’t forget to bring stylish pieces for dining out or exploring the local scene.
It’s also important to pack some more practical pieces of clothing since you might want to go explore the surroundings and the ancient ruins.
In this article, I tell you exactly what to wear in Tulum and how to pack in the most efficient way.
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What is the weather like in Tulum, Mexico?
Tulum has a warm, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures in the 24°C to 35°C (75°F to 95°F) range.
December through April is the dry season, while May through October brings more rain, higher humidity and more heat.
Evenings can be slightly cooler but they are still warm so you never need layers. Also, the sun is strong, so be prepared for heat during the day and make sure to use sunscreen all day long.
Essential Packing List for Tulum, Mexico
Now that you know what to expect weather-wise, here’s your ultimate packing list for Tulum.
Clothing
- Tops:
- Lightweight, breathable tops: Opt for cotton t-shirts, tank tops, flowy tops and blouses that keep you cool in the tropical heat. Try to avoid polyester because it will make you sweat a lot more.
- Flowy blouses: Great for relaxed beach days or casual dinners.
- Bottoms:
- Shorts: Linen or cotton shorts for daytime walks are ideal. If you decide to get a bike as well (which is very practical in Tulum), shorts will come in handy.
- Surfing shorts: this can sound a bit weird if you’re not into surfing but I find them incredibly practical. Surfing shorts are quick dry shorts and they are perfect for beach days or if you want to visit the nearby cenotes. You can wear them during the day, go for a swim and they dry very quickly.
- Flowy skirts: Maxi or midi skirts are the ideal stylish look. During the day, midi skirts are better because it’s easier to walk in them but the maxi skirts are great in the evening. If you tend to get sunburnt easily, they will also be very practical.
- Shorter skirts: Short skirts are also a great option, especially during the day when it’s hot.
- Dresses:
- Sundresses or maxi dresses: Perfect for the beach or going out in the evening, dresses are the best piece of clothing in Tulum. Choose flowy, breathable fabrics since it will be hot. I recommend taking a mix of shorter ones and longer ones since you’ll have the opportunity to wear them all.
- Cover-ups: A light beach cover-up for wearing over your swimsuit is a great item to have.
- Swimwear:
- Swimsuits: Bring a couple of bikinis or one-pieces for beach and pool days.
- Rash guard: If you plan to snorkel or do water sports, a rash guard will provide extra sun protection.
- Shoes:
- Flip-flops: Essential for the beach and use as slippers at the hotel
- Sandals: They are particularly practical during the day when you go and explore as well as in the evening since they look quite stylish and can be paired with a dress as well as shorts.
- Comfortable walking sandals: For exploring ruins or cenotes, pack sturdy sandals like Tevas or Birkenstocks, they are very practical.
- Light sneakers: If you plan to do more adventurous activities like hiking, pack a pair of comfortable trainers.
- Water Shoes. These will come in handy on many occasions since you can use them in cenotes, at the beach and for a variety of activities such as snorkeling or kayaking.
Bags
- A day backpack, Beach bag or tote: Perfect for carrying your towel, sunscreen, and beach essentials.
- A waterproof bag: If you have a waterproof bag, I would also recommend taking it since it will come in handy at the beach and cenotes.
- Money belt: Ideal to carry your money, bank card and passport. I know it’s not super pretty but it’s safe and practical.
- A suitcase or travel backpack for all your clothes and belongings.
Accessories
- Sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the intense tropical sun.
- Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses are great for protecting your eyes from the bright sun.
Swim & Beach Essentials
- Quick-dry towel: A lightweight, fast-drying towel is perfect for the beach or cenotes.
- Sunscreen (reef-safe): Make sure it’s eco-friendly since it won’t be allowed in the cenotes otherwise.
- Aloe vera or after-sun lotion: For soothing your skin after a day in the sun. Even with all the sunscreen in the world, it’s not impossible to get sunburnt anyway so better to be prepared.
- Snorkel gear: If you plan on doing some snorkeling in the cenotes or by the beach, bring your own gear. Snorkeling gear is quite cheap to buy and very often rental places charge you as much as it would cost you to buy it yourself so it’s worth having a kit with you.
- A quick dry poncho: this is my favorite accessory when I travel to tropical destinations! It’s perfect to dry after a swim but you can also kind of wear it as a dress until you get home. It’s very practical
Electronics
- Phone & charger:
- Power Bank
- Camera: A waterproof camera or GoPro is great for underwater shots at cenotes or snorkeling.
- Travel adapter (Type A/B plugs): Mexico uses the same plug type as the US so if you are coming from anywhere else in the world, you may want to consider buying an adapter.
Paperwork
- Passport & copies
- Travel insurance: Ensure it covers any adventurous activities you plan on doing (e.g., snorkeling or diving).
- Hotel reservation & itinerary: Keep printed or digital copies of your accommodations and activities.
- Credit or debit card:
- Cash is also important in Tulum for smaller local vendors.
What to Wear in Tulum, Mexico Depending on the Activity
Here are outfit ideas for Tulum that you can get inspired by.
☀️ For the Beach or Pool ☀️
- Outfit: A breezy cover-up over a bikini or one-piece.
- Footwear: Flip-flops or slip-on sandals.
- Accessories: A wide-brimmed sun hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry poncho and microfiber towel.
🏝️ For Exploring the Ruins or Cenotes 🏝️
- Outfit: A tank top or breathable t-shirt with lightweight shorts.
- Footwear: Sturdy walking sandals or sneakers.
- Accessories: A hat, sunglasses, and a small backpack for water and eco-friendly sunscreen.
🌇 For a Night Out in Tulum 🌇
- Outfit: A flowy sundress or maxi dress in a vibrant color or print.
- Footwear: Leather sandals or espadrilles.
- Accessories: Stylish crossbody bag and boho earrings
🧘♀️ For Yoga or Wellness Retreats 🧘♀️
- Outfit: Breathable yoga leggings or shorts with a comfortable sports bra or tank top.
- Footwear: Barefoot for yoga, but bring slip-on sandals for before and after your session.
- Accessories: A lightweight towel or mat if not provided by your retreat center.
I hope this packing list has helped you understand what you can wear in Tulum Mexico and how to pack efficiently.
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