Our trip to Cancun was incredible, but we made some mistakes along the way that cost us time, money, and sanity.
Underestimating the sun
We thought we could cheat and only use one layer of sunscreen. That was a big mistake. Day two, my husband was bright red like a lobster, and I was close behind. We spent the following two days doused in aloe. So here’s a tip. Re-apply sunscreen once every hour or so, and remember your ears and feet.
Drinking tap water
Believe it or not, this is a beginner mistake. I mistakenly brushed my teeth with tap water the first night and my stomach rebelled the next day. Use bottled water for everything. This includes drinking, brushing your teeth, and even washing fruit.
Booking tours without research
We booked a snorkeling tour on a whim one day because a guy randomly came up to us on the beach. It was fun, but really just a glorified party boat with pricey rental equipment. We wish we had checked beforehand! Do your research and only book tours with reputable companies. You really do get what you pay for.
Overpacking
We took way too many clothes as we assumed we’d want outfits for every situation. Fact: we lived mostly in swimsuits, flip-flops and baggy shorts. Save yourself the trouble and travel light. Casual vibes are the norm in Cancun.
Ignoring the exchange rate
We overtipped someone $50 when we only should have tipped $10 for lunch because we didn’t want to look up what $10 USD was in local currency again. They were very happy with themselves. Our budget was not. Download a currency converter app and keep it on you at all times.
Skipping the bug spray
We thought mosquitoes wouldn’t be too much of a problem near the beach areas. But after spending an evening exploring the mangroves, our legs were covered in bites. Bug spray would’ve saved us from becoming a mosquito feeding frenzy.
Not planning for rain
Cancun is tropical and there’s rain. We had no umbrellas or waterproof shoes to wear and, when it suddenly started to rain, we were drenched and sliding around in flip-flops. There’s nothing better than a small travel umbrella and quick-dry shoes.
Arriving late to Playa Delfines
We really wanted that photo op at the famous Cancun sign but showed up around lunchtime when there was a huge line and the sun was beating down on us. If you want that post for Instagram, get there super early when it’sthat much cooler.
Forgetting about the strong currents
We got carried away swimming at Playa Delfines and didn’t pay attention to all the red flag warnings. The current was stronger than we thought and my husband ended up rolling over while trying bodysurfing. We luckily didn’t get hurt, but learned our lesson to heed the warnings and stay on safer beaches when the rip currents are present.
Not using public transportation
We thought taxis were the most affordable option for travel to Cancun, but the prices add up very quickly. It wasn’t until midway through that we came across the local buses, which are not only super cheap (a dollar or less) but a good way to meet locals. We’d never take those costly cabs again and ride the R1 or R2 bus next time.
Leaving without trying local spots
We ended up eating at tourist restaurants our first couple days because we just went with what we thought was easiest. Finally breaking away and eating at a hole-in-the-wall taco spot made our vacation. The food wasn’t just cheaper and fresher, but it felt more real. Don’t leave without trying some of the local spots. Trust us.
