What To Wear In Cancun – Men's Outfits For Cancun & Packing List - Natural Selection London (2024)

Are you packing your bags for a trip to Cancun and wondering what the heck to wear? Well, you’re in luck because I’m here to help.

First things first, let’s get one thing straight: you’re going to a tropical paradise, not a fashion show. So forget about impressing anyone with your trendy outfits and just focus on staying comfortable and cool.

Nobody is really going to care if you’re wearing the latest designer threads when you’re soaking up the sun on the beach (except you perhaps).

There are a few key things you’ll want to consider when choosing your Cancun wardrobe. The weather, for starters. It’s hot and humid in Cancun, so you’ll want to wear clothes that are lightweight and breathable.

Natural fibers like cotton and linen are your best bet. And don’t forget the sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – trust me, you don’t want to get burnt to a crisp on your vacation as it takes a great vacay and turns it miserable real fast.

You’ll also want to be mindful of local customs and culture. Cancun is a diverse and welcoming place, but it’s always a good idea to dress appropriately and respect local traditions. No need to show up in a sombrero and a poncho, but it’s probably best to avoid anything offensive.

So, what should you pack? Well, that’s where I come in. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some outfit ideas and packing tips to help you plan the perfect Cancun wardrobe.

I’ll cover everything from beach attire to formal wear, and I’ll even throw in a few dos and don’ts to help you avoid any fashion faux pas.

So grab your suitcase and let’s get packing – we’ve got a tropical vacation to plan!

The Importance of Dressing for the Weather in Cancun

Okay, let’s get real for a minute. It’s hot in Cancun. Like, really hot. And humid. And sticky. And basically everything you don’t want your clothes to be.

So if you want to survive your vacation without melting into a puddle of sweat, you’ll need to dress accordingly.

The first thing that you will want to do is choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. I’m talking about natural fibers like cotton and linen that will help keep you cool and comfortable in the heat.

You’re going to want to steer clear of heavy fabrics like denim or wool as much as possible – they’ll just trap the heat and make you miserable.

But it’s not just about staying cool – you’ll also want to protect yourself from the sun. Cancun gets plenty of sunshine, so you’ll want to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.

And don’t forget to reapply the sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you are at the beach or lounging by the pool all day.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But I want to look fashionable on my vacation! Can’t I just wear my designer clothes and suffer through the heat?”

Well, sure, you could do that. But let me ask you this: do you really want to be the guy who’s sweating profusely and constantly adjusting his clothes because he’s so uncomfortable? No, I didn’t think so.

You’ll be much happier (and probably more fashionable) if you choose comfortable, practical clothing that’s appropriate for the weather.

So, when in doubt, go for lightweight, breathable fabrics, and don’t forget the sunscreen.

Tips for Choosing Breathable, Lightweight Fabrics

So, you want to stay cool and comfortable in Cancun’s hot and humid weather, huh? Well, the first step is choosing the right fabrics. You’ll want to make sure to steer clear of heavy, synthetic materials like polyester or nylon.

They might be cheap and easy to find, but they’ll just trap the heat and make you sweat like crazy.

Instead, go for natural fibers like cotton and linen. They’re lightweight, breathable, and will help keep you cool in the heat. Plus, they’re durable and easy to care for, so you won’t have to worry about them falling apart on your vacation.

But here’s the thing: not all cotton and linen are created equal.

Some fabrics are heavier and less breathable than others, so it’s important to choose wisely. Look for lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from high-quality fabrics that will help keep you cool and comfortable.

Avoid anything too tight or restrictive – you’ll just end up feeling hot and sticky. And don’t forget about the details!

Look for clothes with features like mesh linings or ventilation holes that will help increase airflow and keep you cool. And if you’re really looking to stay comfortable, opt for clothes with moisture-wicking technology that will help keep you dry and sweat-free.

How to Protect Yourself from the Sun in Cancun

Ah, the sun. It’s one of the main reasons people flock to Cancun for a vacation. But let’s be real: too much sun can be a bad thing.

Sunburns, heat exhaustion, and even hospitalization are all real risks if you’re not careful. So if you want to enjoy the sunshine without turning into a lobster, you’ll need to take a few precautions.

First and foremost: sunscreen. I cannot stress this enough. Cancun gets plenty of sunshine, and even if it’s cloudy, the UV rays can still be strong.

So slather on the sunscreen, and make sure it’s at least SPF 30. And don’t just apply it once and forget about it – you’ll need to reapply every few hours to make sure you’re protected.

But sunscreen isn’t the only way to protect yourself from the sun. You’ll also want to bring a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun’s rays. And if you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the beach, consider bringing (or finding) a beach umbrella or beach tent to give yourself some extra shade.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But I don’t want to look like a dork with all this sun protection gear!”

Well, here’s the thing: you might look a little silly, but you’ll be much happier (and healthier) if you’re not burnt to a crisp. And hey, there are plenty of stylish options out there – you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function.

Local Customs and Culture: Dressing Respectfully in Cancun

Okay, so we’ve covered how to stay cool and protect yourself from the sun. But what about respecting local customs and culture? After all, you’re a guest in someone else’s country, and it’s important to show respect and appreciation for their traditions and ways of life.

Now, I’m not saying you need to completely overhaul your wardrobe or adopt a whole new culture. But there are a few things you’ll want to consider when it comes to dressing respectfully in Cancun.

First and foremost, be mindful of how you’re presenting yourself. Avoid clothing that’s inappropriate, and steer clear of anything with offensive graphics or messages. You don’t want to offend anyone or cause any misunderstandings.

It’s also a good idea to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or more traditional areas of the city. This might mean wearing more conservative clothing like khaki pants instead of shorts or jeans. Again, the goal is to show respect and appreciation for local customs and traditions.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to sacrifice your personal style or comfort to dress respectfully in Cancun. There are plenty of stylish and practical options out there that will allow you to express yourself while also being mindful of local customs and culture.

Essential Items to Pack for Cancun

Okay, so you’ve got your lightweight, breathable clothes and your sun protection gear all packed up. But what about everything else you’ll need for your trip to Cancun? Here are a few essential items you’ll want to make sure you don’t forget:

• A swimsuit: I mean, come on. You’re going to a tropical paradise – of course, you’ll want to hit the beach and take a dip in the ocean. So don’t forget to pack a swimsuit (or two, if you’re feeling fancy). And if you’re planning on doing any water sports or activities, you might want to bring a rash guard or wetsuit for extra protection.

• Sandals: Again, beach vacation. You’ll want to bring a pair of sandals (or flip-flops, if you prefer) for the beach and for general sightseeing and exploring. Just make sure they’re comfortable and won’t fall apart on you – you don’t want to be stranded with sore feet on your vacation.

• Comfortable shoes: In addition to sandals, you’ll want to bring a pair of comfortable shoes for sightseeing and exploring the city. Look for something lightweight and breathable that will keep your feet cool and comfortable.

• A backpack: You’ll want to bring a backpack to carry all your essentials (like sunscreen, water, and snacks) when you’re out and about. Look for something lightweight and durable that will hold up in the heat.

• A first aid kit: Accidents happen, and it’s always a good idea to be prepared. A small first aid kit with basics like band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes can come in handy in a pinch.

• Insect repellent: Cancun is home to a variety of insects, including mosquitoes. To avoid getting bitten (and potentially sick), bring insect repellent with you and use it as needed.

• Travel documents: Don’t forget to bring your passport (if you’re traveling internationally), travel insurance documents, and any other important documents you’ll need for your trip. Keep them safe and secure in a travel wallet or passport holder.

• Cash and credit cards: You’ll need money to pay for things like meals, souvenirs, and activities while you’re in Cancun. So make sure to bring enough cash and credit cards to cover your expenses. Don’t forget to notify your bank and credit card companies that you’ll be traveling to avoid any issues with fraud or declined transactions.

• A phone charger: Don’t let your phone die on you while you’re on vacation! Bring a phone charger and make sure to keep it handy so you can stay connected and capture all those amazing vacation photos.

• A beach bag: If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the beach, you’ll want to bring a beach bag to carry all your essentials (like sunscreen, towels, and snacks). Look for something lightweight and durable that will hold up in the sand and sun.

Which of these you need to bring and which you can leave at home really depends on where you are staying when you are going to Cancun. If you are staying at a resort on the beach you can probably skip the first aid kit and insect repellant (as the resort will have these available). But if you are staying locally then you might need to bring these and other similar items (like beach towels) from home.

And don’t forget to bring any personal items that are important to you, like medications, travel-sized toiletries, and your favorite vacation reads. With these essentials packed and ready to go, you’ll be all set for an amazing trip to Cancun.

Packing Tips for Minimizing Luggage

Okay, so you’ve got all your essential items picked out and ready to go. But how do you fit everything into a single suitcase without going over the weight limit?

It can be a bit of a challenge, but with a little planning and organization, you can minimize your luggage and make the most of your packing space.

First and foremost: be strategic about what you pack. Don’t bring everything you own – just bring the essentials. And if you’re unsure about something, ask yourself: “Do I really need this on my vacation?” If the answer is no, leave it behind.

You’ll also want to make use of packing cubes or compression bags to help organize and compress your clothes. This will help save space and keep your suitcase from becoming a jumbled mess. And if you’re really short on space, consider wearing your bulkier items on the plane to save room in your suitcase.

But here’s the thing: don’t forget about weight limits! Airlines have strict weight limits for luggage, and you don’t want to get hit with an overweight baggage fee. So make sure to weigh your suitcase before you leave to make sure you’re within the limit.

And if you’re really struggling to fit everything in your suitcase, consider leaving some things behind. Do you really need to bring beach towels? Are they provided by the place you are staying?

Will you really want to wear a suit while on vacation? Can you pack one dress shirt and wash it a couple of times instead of packing three shirts?

Thinking about things like this can help you save a good amount of room in your suitcase.

Outfit Ideas for the Beach

First and foremost: don’t forget your swimsuit! You’ll want to bring a few different options so you can mix and match and switch things up.

Look for swimsuits that are made from lightweight, quick-drying fabrics and that offer good coverage and support. In terms of beachwear, there are a few key pieces you’ll want to pack:

• Shorts: Opt for lightweight, breathable shorts that will keep you cool and comfortable in the heat. Look for styles made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, and avoid anything too tight or restrictive.

• T-shirts: Just like with shorts, you’ll want to choose lightweight, breathable t-shirts that will keep you cool and comfortable on the beach. Look for styles made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, and avoid anything too tight or restrictive.

• A hat: A hat is a beach essential – it will protect your face and eyes from the sun’s rays and help keep you cool. Look for a style that’s lightweight and breathable, and that offers good coverage for your head and face.

• Sunglasses: Just like with a hat, sunglasses are a must-have on the beach. They’ll protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and help prevent sunburned eyelids (trust me, it’s not fun). Look for a pair that fits well and offers good UV protection.

Some excellent outfits that you can pack and wear to the beach (whether you are swimming or just enjoying the beach) are:

• Swim shorts and a t-shirt: A classic beach look, this outfit is simple and stylish. Choose a pair of swim shorts in a bold color or print, and pair it with a plain or patterned t-shirt in a coordinating color. Add a hat and sunglasses for added sun protection.

• Linen shirt and shorts: Linen is a great fabric for beach wear because it’s lightweight, breathable, and looks effortlessly stylish. Pair a linen shirt in a neutral color with a pair of linen shorts for a chic and sophisticated beach look.

• Rash guard and swim trunks: If you’re planning on doing any water sports or activities, a rash guard is a great option. Choose a rash guard in a bold color or print, and pair it with a pair of swim trunks in a coordinating color. Add a pair of sandals and a beach bag for a functional and fashionable beach outfit.

• Linen suit: For a more formal beach look, consider a linen suit. Choose a lightweight, breathable linen suit in a neutral color, and pair it with a pair of sandals and a sun hat for added sun protection.

Remember, the key to looking fashionable on the beach is to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable in the heat. Mix and match pieces to create a beach look that’s stylish and personal to you.

Outfit Ideas for Sightseeing and Exploring the City

Okay, so you’ve packed your beach outfits and you’re ready to hit the sand. But what about when you’re sightseeing and exploring the city?

You’ll want to dress for comfort and practicality, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look stylish too. Here are a few outfit ideas for sightseeing and exploring Cancun:

• Comfortable jeans and a t-shirt: A classic, casual look, this outfit is perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. Choose a pair of comfortable jeans that fit well and aren’t too tight or restrictive, and pair them with a t-shirt in a bold color or print. Add a pair of comfortable shoes and a backpack to carry all your essentials, and you’re all set.

• Shorts and a polo shirt: For a more put-together look, opt for shorts and a polo shirt. Choose a pair of lightweight, breathable shorts in a neutral color, and pair them with a polo shirt in a coordinating color. Add a pair of comfortable shoes and a hat for added sun protection, and you’re ready to hit the streets.

• Linen pants and a linen shirt: Linen is a great fabric for sightseeing and exploring because it’s lightweight, breathable, and looks effortlessly stylish. Pair a pair of linen pants in a neutral color with a linen shirt in a coordinating color for a chic and sophisticated sightseeing outfit. Add a pair of comfortable shoes and a hat for added sun protection, and you’re ready to go.

• Comfortable sneakers and a tracksuit: If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking or exploring, you might want to opt for a comfortable and practical outfit. Consider wearing a tracksuit (or joggers and a hoodie) with a pair of comfortable sneakers. This outfit is great for sightseeing because it’s comfortable, practical, and easy to move in.

Outfit Ideas for Dining Out and Attending Special Events

Okay, so you’ve packed your beach outfits and your sightseeing outfits, and now it’s time to dress up for a special occasion. Whether you’re dining out at a fancy restaurant or attending a formal event, you’ll want to look your best.

Here are a few outfit ideas for dressing up in Cancun:

• Suit and tie: For a formal occasion, a suit and tie is always a safe bet. Choose a lightweight, breathable suit in a neutral color, and pair it with a coordinating tie and dress shoes. Add a pocket square for an extra touch of style.

• Linen suit and open-collar shirt: For a more casual, tropical twist on the traditional suit, consider a linen suit. Choose a lightweight, breathable linen suit in a neutral color, and pair it with an open-collar shirt in a coordinating color. Add a pair of loafers or sandals and a hat for added sun protection, and you’re ready to dress up in style.

• Button-down shirt and chinos: For a more casual, dressed-up look, consider a button-down shirt and a pair of chinos. Choose a lightweight, breathable shirt in a neutral color, and pair it with a pair of chinos in a coordinating color. Add a pair of dress shoes and a belt, and you’re good to go.

• Sport coat and jeans: For a smart-casual look, consider pairing a sport coat with a pair of jeans. Choose a lightweight, breathable sport coat in a neutral color, and pair it with a pair of comfortable jeans in a coordinating color. Add a pair of dress shoes and a belt, and you’re ready to dress up in style.

A Few Dos and Don’ts for Dressing in Cancun

Okay, so you’ve got your beach outfits, your sightseeing outfits, and your special occasion outfits all packed and ready to go. But before you head out into the Cancun sunshine, there are a few dos and don’ts you’ll want to keep in mind.

Here are a few tips for dressing in Cancun

DOs:

• Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics: The key to staying cool and comfortable in Cancun is to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that will allow your skin to breathe and won’t trap heat. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and bamboo are great options.

• Protect yourself from the sun: The sun in Cancun can be intense, so it’s important to protect yourself from its harmful rays. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and choose clothing that offers good coverage and sun protection.

• Dress for the occasion: Whether you’re hitting the beach, sightseeing, or attending a special event, it’s important to dress for the occasion. Make sure you have the appropriate outfits packed and ready to go.

DON’Ts:

• Overdress: Cancun is a laid-back, casual place, so there’s no need to overdress. Leave the formal suits and ties at home, and opt for more casual, laid-back outfits instead.

• Wear tight, restrictive clothing: The heat in Cancun can be intense, so you’ll want to avoid wearing tight, restrictive clothing that will trap heat and make you uncomfortable. Choose loose, lightweight, and breathable fabrics instead.

• Forget your swimsuit: Cancun is all about the beach, so don’t forget to pack a swimsuit (or two). Make sure you have a few different options so you can mix and match and switch things up.

Stylish and Practical Accessories to Bring

Alright, so you’ve got your outfits all packed and ready to go, but what about the accessories? The right accessories can take your outfits from drab to fab, and they can also be practical and functional too.

Here are a few stylish and practical accessories to bring to Cancun.

1. A hat: A hat is a must-have accessory for any trip to Cancun. Not only does it add a touch of style to your outfits, but it also provides valuable sun protection for your face and scalp. Choose a wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap, depending on your personal style. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a panama hat or a bucket hat? The options are endless!
2. Sunglasses: Sunglasses are another essential accessory for Cancun. Not only do they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, but they also add a touch of style to your outfits. Choose a pair that fits your face shape and personal style. Whether you prefer aviators, wayfarers, or something more unique, there’s a pair of sunglasses out there for everyone.
3. A watch: A watch is a great accessory for any trip, and it’s especially useful in Cancun when you’re out and about sightseeing and exploring. Choose a watch that’s water-resistant and durable, and you’ll be able to keep track of time in style.
4. Shoes: The right shoes can make all the difference when it comes to comfort and style in Cancun. Pack a pair of comfortable sneakers for sightseeing and exploring, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops for the beach. And don’t forget a pair of dress shoes for those special occasions!
5. A belt: A belt is a stylish and practical accessory that can pull any outfit together. Choose a belt in a neutral color that will match most of your outfits, and you’ll be all set to cinch in your style.

Footwear Options for Cancun

When it comes to packing for Cancun, one thing you’ll definitely want to consider is your footwear. After all, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and the last thing you want is to be stuck in uncomfortable shoes that rub your feet raw.

Here are a few men’s footwear options to consider for your trip to Cancun:

1. Sneakers: Sneakers are a great option for sightseeing and exploring the city. Choose a pair that’s comfortable, breathable, and durable, and you’ll be all set to walk, run, and jump your way through Cancun.
2. Sandals: Sandals are a must-have for any trip to the beach, and Cancun is no exception. Choose a pair that’s comfortable, breathable, and water-resistant, and you’ll be all set to hit the sand in style.
3. Flip-flops: Flip-flops are another beach essential, and they’re also great for hanging out around the pool or at the resort. Choose a pair that’s comfortable and durable, and you’ll be all set to kick back and relax in style.
4. Dress shoes: If you’re planning on attending any special events or dining out at fancy restaurants, you’ll want to pack a pair of dress shoes. Choose a pair that’s comfortable, stylish, and versatile, and you’ll be all set to dress up in style.

Tips for Staying Comfortable and Cool in the Heat

Let’s face it: the heat in Cancun can be intense. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it in discomfort. With a few simple tips, you can stay cool, comfortable, and stylish in the heat.

Here are a few tips for staying comfortable and cool in the heat:

1. Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics: The key to staying cool and comfortable in the heat is to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that will allow your skin to breathe and won’t trap heat. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and bamboo are great options.
2. Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated in the heat, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Bring a reusable water bottle with you and refill it often, and consider packing some electrolyte tablets or powder to help you stay hydrated and replenish your electrolytes.
3. Protect yourself from the sun: The sun in Cancun can be intense, so it’s important to protect yourself from its harmful rays. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and choose clothing that offers good coverage and sun protection.
4. Stay in the shade: When the sun is at its hottest, try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Look for shady spots to sit or relax, and consider bringing an umbrella or a beach tent to provide some extra shade.
5. Wear loose-fitting clothing: Tight, restrictive clothing can trap heat and make you uncomfortable, so opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead. This will allow your skin to breathe and will help you stay cool and comfortable in the heat.

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it: everything you need to know about what to wear in Cancun. Whether you’re hitting the beach, sightseeing, or attending a special event, you now know what to wear (and what to leave at home).

Just remember to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics, protect yourself from the sun, and pack a few stylish and practical accessories, and you’ll be all set to enjoy your trip in comfort and style.

And if all else fails, just remember: when in doubt, wear a Hawaiian shirt. You can’t go wrong with a good old-fashioned Hawaiian shirt, right? (Okay, maybe you can, but at least you’ll be cool and comfortable!)

So, go forth and embrace your style. With these tips in mind, you’ll be all set to take on the city (and the beach!) in comfort and style.