Getting ready for your Mexican Caribbean trip? Check out my Tulum packing list to make sure you have everything you need!
A trip to Tulum offers an idyllic escape on the Yucatan Peninsula. This coastal town boasts lush jungle landscapes, must-see Mayan ruins, and an array of exotic wildlife species.

Tulum is also home to some of the best beaches in Mexico. So you can have a relaxing time on the serene shoreline with a good book or drink in hand. But imagine arriving at this dreamy destination and realizing you’ve forgotten your favorite bathing suit.
That said, it’s best to plan your Tulum attire and essentials ahead of time to ensure that you don’t miss out on any adventures.
Let’s take a look at the things that you should add to your Tulum packing list, as well as some outfit inspiration for your time in this trendy, laid-back town.
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What to Wear in Tulum – Outfit Ideas, Clothes & Accessories

Are you wondering what to wear to Tulum’s restaurants, beaches, archeological sites, and other points of interest? The town features a relaxed and casual vibe, so think summer dresses, linen shorts, and sunnies.
Here are a few essential clothing items to pack when planning your outfits for Tulum.
Swimsuits & Cover-Ups
As you’re likely to spend plenty of time soaking up the sun and splashing in the Caribbean Sea, be sure to pack two to three bathing suits.
You’ll also want to bring along two beach cover-ups, so add in a summery kaftan or casual kimono.

Casual Tops & T-Shirts
When planning your Tulum vacation outfits, you’ll want to pick versatile clothing items so you can mix and match them.
Depending on the duration of your trip, you’ll want to bring around three to four stylish tops, t-shirts, or tank tops.
A simple t-shirt paired with a skirt or shorts is a great sightseeing outfit.
Bottoms
While there is no strict Tulum dress code, formal pants and tops might stand out.
So pack one or two breezy shorts or summer skirts instead. You could also bring along a pair of linen pants for an evening event or dinner date.

Sundresses
If you’re looking for an easy outfit, you should pack a few dresses for Tulum.
You can wear a flowy dress to breakfast or add some accessories when exploring the town at night. You should pack about four to seven sundresses, jumpsuits, or rompers.
Lightweight Jacket or Jersey
As the town has a tropical climate, the weather in Tulum is generally quite pleasant. But for those cooler evenings, you’ll want to have a light jacket, cardigan, wrap, or jersey on hand. A lightweight jacket is also great if you’re planning a rainforest hike.

Sleepwear, Underwear & Socks
You might be so focused on your Tulum party outfits and exploring attire when packing that pajamas and undergarments may get overlooked.
So be sure to add in a breezy pajama set, perhaps a simple tank top and shorts, or a sleep dress.
You should also pack enough underwear – at least one item per day, depending on the laundry services at your chosen accommodation.
Remember to add in one or two pairs of light socks if you plan to wear sneakers.
Comfortable Shoes
When traveling to Mexico’s coastal towns, you’ll probably spend hours relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
Pack a pair of flip-flops for those scenic walks on the beach and some comfortable sandals for daytime wear.
If you’re planning to participate in thrilling outdoor activities or visit the stunning Mayan ruins, a comfortable sneaker is a great item to include.

Sunglasses & Hats
Now that we’ve looked at the essential Tulum clothes, it’s time to accessorize.
Grab a pair of UV-protective sunnies and a wide-brimmed sun hat. A peaked cap or visor is an excellent option if you want to save space in your bag.
Backpack & Beach Bag
When exploring the town, you’ll want to have a small backpack or a cross-body bag to keep your items together.
A waterproof dry bag is also a great option if you’re heading to the cenotes in Tulum.
You can also pack in a beach tote to hold your towel, reusable water bottle, and other essentials. Pack in a cute straw clutch for evening outings to complement your Tulum-style clothing.

What to Pack for Tulum – Essentials & Electronics
In Tulum, fashion is chic but still laid-back, like the town’s ambiance. After picking your clothing items, you’ll want to decide which essentials to bring along. Here are a few basic things to pack for Tulum.
Travel Documents & Emergency Cash
When packing for Tulum, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents, including your passport and a valid ID.
It’s also good to have some cash on hand as you might find yourself in a cash-only situation. You can keep all these items organized in a travel document organizer.

Smartphone & Accessories
Although a vacation is a great time for a digital detox, you’ll want to make sure you have a few essential electronics and accessories.
This includes your smartphone, charger, and laptop if you still have some business to take care of on your trip.
Other handy accessories include a waterproof phone case, selfie stick, headphones, power bank, and a phone stand or tripod. You can also bring an underwater camera and waterproof binoculars along on those exhilarating adventures.

Toiletries, Reef-Safe Sunscreen & After-Sun Lotion
When it comes to your toiletry packing list for Tulum, you won’t have to take all the items in your bathroom cabinet.
Simply pack what you use daily. You’ll also want to add in a reef-safe sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and after-sun lotion to keep your skin safe and hydrated.
You can also purchase travel-size bottles and dual-purpose items to save on luggage space. Here are a few items that you’ll need during your trip:
- Shampoo, conditioner, and hair styling products
- A small hairbrush
- Toothpaste, toothbrush, and dental floss
- Facial cleanser and moisturizer
- Deodorant and body spray
- Make-up and make-up removal products
- Feminine hygiene products
- Medication
- Bug spray and antibacterial wipes
- First-aid kit
Keep in mind that some of these items can be purchased in Tulum or are provided by hotels.

A Footnote on What to Bring to Tulum
Hopefully, the packing process will be less daunting now that you have some Tulum outfit ideas and know which essentials to bring along.
With this comprehensive packing list, you’ll be prepared for a fun-filled adventure. So get ready to embrace the stress-free lifestyle on this beautiful coastal island.
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