PACKING GUIDE · CABO SAN LUCAS
What to pack for Cabo — complete packing list
Cabo is a desert destination at sea level. The packing logic is different from a Caribbean beach trip — the sun is more intense, the evenings can be cooler in winter, and reef-safe sunscreen matters more than anywhere. Here's exactly what to bring.
Cabo weather by season
Dec – Feb
78–82°F
60–65°F
Rare
Light layer for evenings. Perfect beach weather.
Mar – Apr
80–86°F
65–70°F
Very Rare
Warming up. Still ideal beach conditions.
May – Jun
86–92°F
70–76°F
Low
Hot but manageable. Mornings are best for outdoor activities.
Jul – Sep
90–94°F
76–80°F
Moderate
Hurricane season. Pack light breathable clothing.
Oct – Nov
84–88°F
68–73°F
Low
Transitioning to ideal season. October is excellent.
Sun & Water
ESSENTIALReef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen
Required at Chileno Bay. Bring from home — resort shops charge 2–3x.
Rashguard or UPF 50+ shirt
The desert sun at sea level is relentless. Essential for snorkeling and beach days.
Polarized sunglasses
Sea glare is intense. Polarized lenses make a real difference on the water.
Wide-brim hat
For beach walks, markets, and any time you're not in the water.
Snorkel mask and fins
Rentals available at Chileno Bay ($10–15) but your own gear is more comfortable.
Dry bag or waterproof phone case
For water taxis, snorkeling trips, and boat excursions.
Clothing
Lightweight linen or cotton tops
Synthetics are hot in Cabo heat. Natural fibers breathe far better.
Swimsuits (pack 2–3)
One is always drying. Two or three means you're always ready.
Sundresses or linen shirts
Doubles as beach cover-up and casual evening wear. Versatile.
One nicer outfit for fine dining
El Farallón, Sunset Monalisa, and Don Manuel's are smart casual.
Light jacket or cardigan
For Dec–Feb evenings (60–65°F) and heavily air-conditioned restaurants.
Comfortable sandals
You will walk the marina in sandals more than any other shoe.
Closed shoes for ATV or hiking tours
Required by most ATV operators. One pair is enough.
Health & Practical
ESSENTIALReusable water bottle
Hydration is critical in the desert heat. Fill from hotel filtered water.
Prescription medications (extra supply)
Pharmacies in Cabo are good but may not carry your specific medication.
Antidiarrheal medication
Even careful eaters sometimes have stomach adjustments. Better to have it.
Motion sickness medication
For whale watching, sportfishing, and sunset cruises — the Sea of Cortez has chop.
Insect repellent
Cabo has fewer mosquitoes than jungle destinations, but evenings near mangroves warrant it.
After-sun lotion or aloe
Even careful sunscreen users end up with some sun exposure. Aloe is available locally.
Documents & Money
ESSENTIALValid U.S. passport
Required for all travelers including children. Check expiration — Mexico requires 6 months validity.
Mexican pesos (cash)
Taco stands, market vendors, and local taxis are cash-only. ATMs available in Cabo; use hotel ATMs to avoid fees.
Credit card with no foreign fees
Most resort restaurants and larger shops accept cards. Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture recommended.
Travel insurance documents
Medical care in Cabo is generally good, but medical evacuation coverage is worth having.
Hotel and tour confirmations (screenshots)
Cellular data can be spotty. Offline screenshots of reservations prevent problems.
Leave at Home
Heavy clothing or layers
It is warm. A pile of sweaters and jeans will sit in your room.
Expensive jewelry
Wear simple pieces. Fine jewelry at beach clubs and on boats is a risk.
Hair dryers and curling irons
All resorts provide them. Dead weight in your bag.
Regular sunscreen (non-reef-safe)
Banned at Chileno Bay and Santa María Bay marine reserves.
Large amounts of cash
Petty theft risk increases with visible cash. Use ATMs as needed throughout the trip.
Common questions
What should I pack for Cabo San Lucas?
Essential items for Cabo: high-SPF sunscreen (the desert sun is intense year-round), a rashguard or UPF shirt for water activities, reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to snorkel, lightweight clothing (linen, cotton — heat and humidity), one nicer outfit for fine dining, good sandals for marina walking, a light jacket or wrap for air-conditioned restaurants and December–February evenings, and a reusable water bottle. Leave the heavy items at home — Cabo is warm, casual, and outdoors-focused.
What is the dress code in Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo is casual. The marina strip and beach clubs have no dress code. Fine dining restaurants like El Farallón and Sunset Monalisa prefer smart casual — a nice shirt and clean pants or dress for men, a sundress or similar for women. No ties required anywhere. Most Cabo evenings are warm enough that a light dress or linen shirt works for any occasion. Resort flip-flops are acceptable almost everywhere except the most upscale restaurants.
What is the weather like in Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo has a desert climate modified by the Sea of Cortez. Peak season (November–April) brings days of 74–84°F with low humidity and near-zero rain. May through June is warm (85–92°F) with building humidity. July through September is hot (88–94°F) and humid with occasional tropical storms. The weather is relatively consistent during peak season — the main variable is wind, which can pick up in the afternoons on the Corridor beaches.
Do I need a jacket in Cabo?
In December through February, evenings in Cabo can drop to 60–65°F, and indoor restaurants and resort common areas are often heavily air-conditioned. A light jacket, cardigan, or wrap is useful for evenings during these months. From March through November, evenings stay warm enough that a light layer is plenty. You do not need a heavy coat at any time of year.
Can I buy sunscreen in Cabo San Lucas?
Yes, sunscreen is widely available in Cabo at OXXO convenience stores, pharmacies, and resort shops. However, it is significantly more expensive than at home — often 2–3x the U.S. price at resort shops. Bring an adequate supply from home, especially reef-safe sunscreen (required for snorkeling at protected marine areas like Chileno Bay). Familiar U.S. brands are available but selectively stocked.
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