Traveling to Cancun sounds excellent, doesn’t it? We’re talking about a beautiful destination in Mexico that attracts millions of tourists each year for all it has to offer.
However, to get the most out of your vacation, it’s not enough to plan just a few aspects of the trip; there are several to consider, and they must be done right to avoid costly mistakes.
Buying your ticket a few days before
One of the biggest mistakes when planning a trip to Cancun is waiting until the last minute to buy plane tickets because flight prices tend to be much higher when purchased with little advance notice.
Additionally, you may not find available seats on the most convenient flights, which can result in inconvenient schedules or long layovers.
It’s always a good idea to buy your tickets at least three months in advance, and if you do so through applications or platforms that allow you to compare prices, even better, because, in the end, you won’t have to pay hundreds of extra dollars.
Booking Budget Accommodation
It is tempting to save money by choosing the cheapest accommodation, but this can ruin your experience in Cancun. Cheap hotels are usually far from the main attractions, offer poor services, or are unsafe.
Sometimes spending a little more on a good hotel makes a big difference in your travel experience, which you want to be positive and not the opposite.
Going during peak season
The high peak travelling season in Cancun, which runs from December to April, can be expensive and crowded. The beaches, restaurants, and tourist attractions will be full of tourists, making the experience less enjoyable.
It is more appropriate to go in months like May, or perhaps between September and October, when you won’t encounter as many people. The great thing is that this affects prices because they are considerably lower.
Not planning your activities in advance
Cancun offers a wide variety of activities, from tours of Mayan ruins to water sports and nightlife. If you don’t plan, you could miss out on some of the best experiences.
Research and book your activities and tours in advance, so you have a secure spot and can easily find better prices and options.
Not knowing how to get around
Depending on where you stay, transportation can sometimes be a challenge because not all areas are well connected by public transport, and relying solely on taxis can be expensive.
Consider renting a car or using shared transport services, or better yet, take tours with transportation included. Even look into renting a bike to reach those less accessible but worthwhile sites.
Not protecting yourself from the sun adequately
The sun in Cancun can be very strong, and it’s easy to get sunburned if you don’t take proper precautions. Not applying enough sunscreen or not using it regularly can result in painful sunburns that ruin your trip.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it generously every two hours. Don’t forget to wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing to minimize sun exposure.
Not trying the local food
Many will agree that one of the greatest pleasures of traveling is eating, especially local dishes. However, many tourists limit themselves to eating at international or chain restaurants for fear of getting sick.
Venture out to try local food at places recommended by locals or well-reviewed restaurants. Mexican cuisine is rich and varied, and you’ll miss out on a big part of the experience if you don’t enjoy it.
Not carrying enough cash
Although Cancun is a modern city, not all places accept credit or debit cards. Additionally, ATM withdrawal fees can be high. Carry enough cash to cover daily expenses and small purchases. Exchange your money at places with good rates or use your card at ATMs to get local currency at a good price.
Not respecting local customs
Although Cancun is a tourist destination, it’s important to remember that it’s also part of Mexico, a country with its customs and traditions. Not respecting local norms can cause misunderstandings or even problems. Learn about local customs and traditions before your trip to be respectful of the local people and their culture, and always show consideration.
Not purchasing travel insurance
Traveling without travel insurance is a risk you shouldn’t take because from unforeseen illnesses to flight cancellations, many things can go wrong and be costly. Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and losses. This way, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you’ll be covered in case of any unforeseen events.