This post will tell you exactly what you need to pack for your trip to Hotel Xcaret Arte. If you're wondering what to bring to Xcaret Arte, this post will sum it up for you, as well as pointing out what is essential and what isn't!
Are you excited for your trip to Xcaret Arte? The Mexican resort is an incredible holiday destination, but now you're wondering what you need to pack for Xcaret. This simple packing guide will let you know everything you need to bring to Hotel Xcaret Arte - what's already provided by the resort, what's recommended to bring, and what's nice to have.
This post is broken up into sections to make it easier for you to scroll through.
If you're still deciding whether you actually want to go to Xcaret Arte, check out this honest Xcaret Arte review.
Exactly what you need to pack for your trip to Xcaret Arte will vary from person to person - are you going on an adventure holiday, planning to do all the action-packed excursions? Or are you planning to take it easy, and relax by the pool?
Keep that in mind while looking through this packing guide.
Clothing
When talking about clothing, I'm referring to kinds the things you might want to bring to wear, your style is up to you! (And please remember to bring your standard essentials - you don't need me to remind you to pack your socks or underwear. Or if you do, let me know in the comments and I can add that.)
Swimsuits. Lots of them. Not only is swimming one of the main activities at the hotel, water features in many of the Xcaret parks.
Water shoes. You can technically survive without water shoes at Xcaret, but you're not going there to survive. To really enjoy your experience pack a basic pair of water shoes (you don't need anything super fancy). You'll be spending time wading and swimming through natural water formations (river and cenotes), and there will often be rocks or jagged ground to contend with.
Rash guards. A rash guard is nice to have, not only will it protect your skin from the sun, it adds a very light layer of warmth when you're in the colder cenote waters.
Wet suit. Generally speaking, you don't need a wet suit if you're just visiting the Xcaret Arte resort. However, if you choose to do the Xenotes excursion, a wet suit (or wetsuit top) will be something you appreciate. The cenote waters are generally cooler all year round. If you opt to go without, I'd recommend at least taking a rash guard (Xcaret actually sell rash guards out of a van during the excursion because so many people regret not bringing their own).
Casual shorts & shirts. Simple light clothing for you to wear while walking around the resort. Xcaret Arte is more of a luxury experience so most guests tend to have separate "pool wear" and "resort wear".
Dinner outfits. These don't need to be too fancy (though you will occasionally see suits, cocktail dresses, and formal gowns at the restaurants) - just something to wear to the dinner restaurants that isn't obviously for the beach (shorts are still fine but swim shorts and bikini bottoms aren't). The only exception being Xaak, which asks you to dress up a bit.
Comfortable shoes or sandals.
A light sweater or cardigan as it gets mildly cooler during some evenings.
A hat or cap. I don't know if anyone's mentioned this to you, but Mexico can be sunny.
Sunglasses. See above.
Quick Note: You've probably realised this by now, but this packing guide is specifically for items you need to take to Xcaret Arte (or even Xcaret Mexico). This is not packing list so please do not forget to pack your clothes and passport.
Accessories
Most of these accessories are just nice-to-have items, but some of them can really make your visit to Xcaret much more memorable.
Waterproof phone case. These are much more effective than I thought they would be. A waterproof phone cover allows you to keep your phone with you during all your activities, as well as to take some really great photos! Make sure to test them using tissue paper before risking your phone.
GoPro Hero 11. A GoPro action camera is great for exciting holidays like this one. The cameras are waterproof, great quality, and can be mounted to your body in a variety of ways. I take mine on most trips!
Insta360 X3. The Insta360 x3 is currently my favorite camera. It takes 360 degrees video. I used it to get some great shots while at Xcaret Arte. Use this Insta360 link to get a some free accessories!
Travel adapters. This may be the only truly essential item in the accessories section. The wall plugs in Mexico may not be the same as where you're coming from. It's important to bring at least one travel adapter so you're able to charge your phone or any other electronics you have.
Water bottle. Drink your water, friend!
A small backpack or daypack. A small backpack or fanny pack is handy for carrying things (like your camera). Ideally you'll want a waterproof one that you can take into the water with you...but a regular small one is fine since you'd be able to carry your phone (you did bring that waterproof phone pouch, right?) and waterproof cameras on your person. Do expect the backpack to get wet if you ask the Xcaret staff to transport it down the river for you.
Cash. While tipping isn't expected or required at Xcaret Arte (except at excursions, where they are expected), some small tips for any staff members helping you out will go a long way.
Toiletries & health supplies
Xcaret Arte provides you with a selection of honey-scented toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion. The standard oral hygiene products, and a loofah are also provided.
However, I'd always recommend bringing your own preferred toiletries, especially if you have any sensitivities and aren't sure how your body may react to the provided toiletries.
The gift shop at Xcaret Arte does also include a limited selection of medical supplies. However, I'd recommend you bring the following in addition to any regular prescriptions that you need (and hopefully you won't need to use any of it):
Reef-friendly sunblock. The highest SPF you can find. I like Hawaiian Tropic, but any good sunscreen will work. Make sure it's reef-friendly though!
Insect-repellent. The resort burns torches to keep away mosquitoes so it's not a terrible issue. However, if you're outside of the main resort areas in the evening, you might find some insect-repellent to be very handy!
Pro tip! If you're at the main infinity pool of Xcaret Arte, the hotel will provide sunblock for you to use once you're done swimming.
Over the counter medications. It's always prudent to carry some over the counter medications with you. Personally, I keep antihistamine, ibuprofen and Tylenol on hand as I have a history of migraines. And because I have every seasonal allergy under the sun (or at least, that's what it feels like some days!). If you suffer from stomach issues, you may also consider Tums!
These packing suggestions should have you ready for just about everything on your trip to Hotel Xcaret Arte. If you're still unsure about what to pack for Hotel Xcaret Arte, drop me a comment, and I'll do my best to help you.
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