22 Things to Bring to an All-Inclusive Resort
Take your all-inclusive vacation to the next level by packing these essentials and a few good-to-have items we swear by.
My husband and I enjoy staying at all-inclusive resorts when we really need to unplug and escape. We don't have to worry about cooking, picking out restaurants or even trekking around the city we're in (if we don't want to). A lot of these things can be the best part of a vacation, I know, but when you want to do absolutely nothing, all-inclusives can be just what you need.
On our most recent trip to Mexico, we stayed at a budget-friendly yet highly-rated all-inclusive resort on Cancun's Hotel Zone strip. Hotel Riu Caribe, a short ride from Cancun International Airport, hit all the marks we were looking for in a don't-lift-a-finger vacation. After a week of eating and napping way more than I usually do, I found myself wishing I had packed a few luxury items to make our trip even more comfortable. Here are a few items to consider packing for your next all-inclusive beach vacation.
Must-Bring Items
I consider these 'must-bring' items. Sunscreen, insect repellant, a protective hat and a foldable bag are pretty standard for a beach trip. A few other things to consider are a portable charging station, an insulated tumbler and a travel first-aid kit. An insulated tumbler will keep your morning coffee piping hot and those margaritas ice-cold during the day. This means fewer trips to the pool bar for a refill and more time lounging.
Good-to-Have Items
These six items are optional but will make your trip even easier. A packable backpack and lightweight wet bags are perfect for day trips and excursions. Bring only the essential cards you'll need and carry them in a slim wallet that's also light enough to keep in your front pocket. Keep healthy snacks handy throughout the day by filling up some reusable food bags at breakfast. Think fruit, crackers, cheese and nuts. If you plan on trying out some water sports, a waterproof fanny pack will keep your phone, passport, cash and room key safe and dry.
You'll Wish You Brought These
These are certainly not must-packs, but they'll definitely take your already worry-free vacation to a new level of relaxation. An inflatable pillow is not only perfect for your flight, but it will make napping in those (traditionally uncomfortable) pool loungers much more comfortable. You can even use an inflatable pool lounger as a cushion in your beach chair. If your in a pool lounger, you'll want some colorful clips to keep your towel from slipping (and to mark your chair). If you plan on being right in the sand most days, consider bringing a packable sand-free blanket, a mini Bluetooth speaker and collapsible beach buckets for kids.