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I’m heading to Cabo with the girls in November, and I’ve already started thinking about what to pack. For some reason, my travel outfit is getting more attention than anything else. I want to be comfortable on the plane, but I still want to look put together—and leaving BC in November means whatever I wear needs to work through a temperature change.
Then there’s the rest of the suitcase. Pool clothes, something for dinner, shoes that work with more than one outfit… suddenly a beach holiday requires more thought than I expected.
I’m trying to start with pieces I already own and figure out what I’ll actually wear before buying anything else. This is where I’m pulling together my Cabo packing list, from comfortable airport outfit ideas to easy resort looks and the little travel essentials I don’t want to forget.
If you enjoy simple, relaxed travel spaces, you might also like my article on creating a peaceful tiny retreat lifestyle, where I share ideas for slowing down and enjoying beautiful spaces.
Tiny Retreat Living article
How I’m Planning My Cabo Outfits This Time
In the past, my packing method was basically to open the suitcase a week before leaving and keep adding things.
Denim shorts, linen shorts, tanks, four or five bathing suits, a couple of cover-ups, a couple of hats, and far too many flip-flops. Then I’d start thinking about dinner. Another stylish top, white or beige pants, something else to go with those pants… you can see where this is going.
I was usually away for a week but packed like I was leaving for a month. And every time, I came home with about half the wardrobe unworn. Including that dress I apparently thought vacation me would suddenly want to wear.
Some outfits looked lovely when I packed them but didn’t appeal to me once I was there. Even lightweight pants sometimes felt too hot after a long day in the sun. On trips when I’d caught too much sun, the last thing I wanted was clothing rubbing against hot, uncomfortable skin. Keeping my hat on is also something I need to get better at.
This year, I’m determined to give outfit planning a proper try. I’ve seen the idea of trying everything on before packing and taking a photo of each outfit. Brilliant. I’m going to try it—with the shoes and accessories included—so I can see whether I actually like the whole look.
Here’s my plan:
- Start with what I already own. Try it on before deciding I need something new.
- Photograph the outfits I’d happily wear. Save them in an album on my phone so I have ideas ready when I’m getting dressed.
- Repeat the pieces that work. A pair of linen shorts can go with several tops, and I don’t need different shoes for every outfit.
- Leave out the “maybe” clothes. If I’m already unsure at home, there’s a good chance they’ll stay in the suitcase.
- Keep a few easy favourites. A simple tank or fun top, linen shorts, a chunky necklace and a bracelet will probably still be my go-to.
I want options, but I also want to be realistic about how I dress. Coordinating my outfits doesn’t mean becoming a completely different person once I land in Cabo.
Will another pair of shorts sneak into the suitcase at the last minute? Quite possibly. But I’m giving this my best shot.
If you love versatile fashion pieces that look expensive but aren’t, I also shared some of my favorite. Summer Fashion Finds That Look Designer But Aren’t
What I’m Planning to Wear to the Airport for Cabo
For some reason, my airport outfit is getting almost as much thought as everything going into my suitcase. I want to be comfortable for the flight, warm enough leaving BC in November, and still feel put together when we arrive in Cabo.
My first choice is a matching two-piece lounge set. I already have a lovely one that could work, but the pants have a tummy panel that gets uncomfortable when I’m sitting for long periods. The hem also has a split, and the bottoms can touch the floor when I use the restroom.
Airport bathroom floors? Airplane bathroom floors? Makes me cringe just thinking about it.
So I’m on the hunt for a comfortable lounge set or wide-leg pants with a toggle or drawcord that lets me cinch them at the ankle. I love the relaxed shape of a wide leg, but being able to pull the hem up when needed would be a very welcome detail. I’ve been looking for a pair for quite some time!
An Easy Layer for the Flight
I love the look of a long-sleeve striped or solid sweater or sweatshirt over a simple tank or tee. Something easy to throw on when the plane gets chilly, then wrap around my shoulders when we land.
Stylish and practical—and hopefully something I’ll wear again during the trip.
Before I settle on the outfit, I’m going to try it on and sit in it for a while. A waistband that feels fine standing in front of the mirror can feel very different a couple of hours into a flight.
Sneakers Now, Flip-Flops Later
I’ll wear sneakers and socks for the airport and flight. Comfortable for walking, and my feet won’t be cold on the plane.
Of course, there will be a pair of flip-flops in my bag. Once we arrive, I’ll be ready to make the switch.
What I Want in My Personal-Item Bag
I’m also looking for a new personal-item bag that looks stylish but holds what I actually need. A comfortable shoulder strap, a zip closure, and a few useful pockets are high on my list.
Along with my travel documents and everyday essentials, I want room for:
- A swimsuit, shorts and a tank
- My contacts and a few toiletries
- Phone cords and a charger
- A few other small travel essentials
If our checked luggage gets delayed, at least I’ll have something to change into and can get on with enjoying the holiday. Better safe than sorry!
If you’ve found a comfortable matching lounge set, wide-leg pants that cinch at the ankle, or a personal-item bag you love, I’d love to hear what worked for you. Bonus points if the pants keep themselves off the bathroom floor.
The Swimsuits I’m Packing—and the Cover-Ups Coming With Them
I haven’t felt quite like myself in a swimsuit these last couple of years. I still wear a bikini, but my confidence has definitely shifted as I’ve gotten older.
I used to walk over to grab a drink or head to the bathroom in my bathing suit without giving it much thought. These days, I’m reaching for a cover-up just to get from my lounger to the edge of the pool. I’m kidding, of course—but that’s sometimes how it feels in my head.
From conversations with my girlfriends, I know I’m not the only one. If I could spend the whole pool day in cutoffs and a tank, some days I probably would.
Giving My Black One-Piece Another Chance
I’ll still pack a few bikini options for Cabo, although I know there will be moments when I’ll feel more comfortable with a towel across my lap.
I also have a basic black strapless one-piece that I bought for our cruise last year and never ended up wearing. This time, I’m actually a little excited to style it. With a cover-up, naturally. Apparently, that’s where I’m putting all my fashion energy!
I have a feeling I might reach for it a couple of times, especially if I try it on with a few different options before we leave.
A Little Swimwear Refresh
I recently bought a bikini top that will work with the bottoms I already own, which gives me another option without buying a whole new suit.
I’m also considering one colourful bikini or a new cover-up. Most of mine have been around for a few years, so a little refresh would be nice. But I want something I feel comfortable wearing—not something that only looks lovely on the model.
If I order it and it doesn’t feel right, back it goes, provided it meets the return policy. I’m trying not to pack another “maybe.”
And yes, I’ll probably be scrolling through far too many influencer recommendations while I look. The real test will be how it feels on me.
Shopping My Closet for Scarves and Cover-Ups
I’m loving the idea of oversized scarves that can be tied around your waist, worn over your shoulders, or styled around your head. I think I already have a few in my closet that could work.
Before buying more, I’m going to try them with my swimsuits and practise a couple of ways to tie them. I’d rather figure that out at home than wrestle with a scarf beside the pool.
A sarong with my black one-piece, sunglasses and a few accessories could be such an easy look. And if a scarf works with more than one swimsuit, even better.
I still want to enjoy choosing my pool outfits, even if my confidence looks a little different these days. A swimsuit I like and a cover-up I feel good in seem like a pretty good place to start.
Has your swimsuit confidence changed over the years—and have you found a suit or cover-up that you love wearing?
If you’re putting together your own poolside look, here are a few options to browse: a black one-piece swimsuit, an easy sarong, an oversized scarf to try tying a few different ways, and a wide-brimmed hat. Start with what you already own and add whatever would make it feel more like you.
These are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
My Go-To Daytime Cabo Outfit: Shorts, a Tank & Flip-Flops
This is probably my favourite outfit for the trip. Simple, comfortable, quick to throw on—and still stylish with a couple of accessories.
I live in shorts and tanks all summer long, so I know I’ll reach for them in Cabo too. Linen shorts, a tank or fun top, and flip-flops. Add a chunky necklace and a bracelet, and I feel put together without having to think too hard about it.
And honestly, who doesn’t love flip-flops when it’s hot? Day or night, I’m happy wearing them whenever they work for what we’re doing.
Rather than packing every pair of shorts and tank I own, I’m going to choose a few favourites that work together:
- Linen shorts I feel comfortable sitting and walking in
- Tanks and a couple of fun tops that go with more than one bottom
- Flip-flops or flat sandals that work with several outfits
- A necklace, bracelet or earrings to change things up
- A roomy bag for whatever I’m bringing down to the pool or out for a wander
I might try one of my scarves in my hair or tied to my bag, too. A little change without adding another whole outfit to the suitcase.
I love looking at beautifully styled resort outfits, but this is what I actually enjoy wearing. For lunch, a walk around the resort or a casual afternoon drink, shorts and a tank will probably win most days.
What I’ll Actually Wear to Dinner in Cabo
This is where I usually get carried away. I start picturing all these lovely evening outfits, and before I know it, I’ve packed enough options for several weeks. This time, I’m trying to choose pieces I’m excited to wear and can style more than one way.
I’ll bring a simple casual cotton dress for daytime, but at night I’ll probably reach for a skirt with a tank or a fancy top. That feels more like me.
The Brown Polka-Dot Skirt Coming With Me
I recently bought a brown skirt with white polka dots specifically to change up my evening outfits on this girls’ trip. But I’ve already had a chance to wear it.
We had a gala wine social at the ranch, and I styled it with denim boots and a cropped jean jacket. It was perfect for the evening, and now I’m even more excited to bring it to Cabo.
I can wear it with a simple tank during the day or a dressier top for dinner. And whichever way I wear it, there’s a very good chance it will be with flip-flops. Of course.
Linen Trousers and Flowy Pants
I also love how stylish a pair of long linen trousers can look with a nice top, kitten heels and my hair up. Such a simple outfit, but it feels a little special for dinner.
Then there’s a flowy pair of wide-leg pants with a tank. That is totally me. And you already know what shoes I’m picturing with those.
Flip-flops.
There are so many options, and trust me, I’ve been searching for all of them. The challenge is choosing a few I’ll actually wear instead of putting every possible combination in my suitcase.
Yes, the Flip-Flops Will Be Stylish
When I say flip-flops for dinner, I’m not talking about an old ratty pair that has seen too many summers. I want them to look good with the outfit—something simple, in good condition, and a colour that works with what I’m packing.
I don’t have chocolate brown ones… yet. I can already picture them with my new skirt.
As much as I love my flip-flops, I also love a unique or stylish pair of sandals. Something with an interesting detail that makes a simple skirt and tank feel a little more dressed up. Comfortable, of course—I still want to enjoy walking around in them!
I’ll check our resort’s restaurant dress codes before deciding which shoes to bring for dinner. But wherever flip-flops work, you know they’ll be my first choice.
A Few Accessories to Finish the Look
A chunky necklace, a bracelet or a pair of statement earrings can be enough to make my usual tank feel ready for the evening. I’ll try them with my outfits before packing so I bring the pieces that actually work.
That’s the plan: a few comfortable outfits, some accessories to change things up, and shoes I’m happy wearing. Now I just have to resist adding five more tops before we leave.
Accessories take up very little space in your suitcase but instantly make vacation outfits look more styled. A simple silk scarf, statement earrings, or oversized sunglasses can completely change a basic outfit.
Practical Travel Essentials for My Cabo Packing List
I’ve spent plenty of time thinking about outfits, but I also want to get the practical things organised. Finding a necklace tangled around three others or digging through my bag for a phone cord isn’t how I want to spend my holiday.
These are the kinds of travel extras worth considering. I don’t need every gadget I see while scrolling, but if something solves a problem and I’ll use it again, it deserves a look.
Packing Cubes to Keep My Outfits Together
Since I’m trying to coordinate my outfits this time, packing cubes make sense. I can group my tops, bottoms and swimwear instead of rummaging through the whole suitcase for one tank.
Compression cubes are another option for reducing bulk. Although knowing me, I’ll need to resist treating that extra space as permission to add more clothes.
A Hanging Toiletry Bag
With a girls’ trip, there could be quite a few bottles and beauty products competing for bathroom space.
A toiletry bag with a hanging hook and separate compartments would help keep my things together without spreading everything across the counter. I’d look for one that opens wide enough to see what’s inside and has an easy-to-clean lining.
A Small Travel Jewellery Case
You know I’ll be bringing necklaces and bracelets to change up my outfits. What I don’t want is a tangled handful when I’m getting ready for dinner.
A small case with separate sections and necklace straps would be useful. I’ll choose my jewellery first, then make sure the case has room for it—especially my chunkier pieces.
A Portable Charger and Cord Organiser
My phone cords are already on my personal-item packing list. A little zip pouch would keep them together with the charging plug instead of loose at the bottom of my bag.
A compact portable charger is also worth considering for a long travel day. I’d check that it works with my phone and look up my airline’s current battery rules before packing it.
A Luggage Tracker
After planning what to keep with me in case our luggage gets delayed, a tracker is another item I’m considering.
An AirTag or another tracker compatible with my phone could help me locate my suitcase. It won’t stop luggage from getting delayed, but having another way to check where it is would be reassuring.
Separate Bags for Laundry and Wet Swimwear
A lightweight laundry bag would keep worn clothes apart from the clean outfits I’m still planning to wear.
For a swimsuit that hasn’t dried before we leave, I’d use a separate leak-resistant wet bag or a sturdy zip bag. I definitely don’t want it making the rest of my clothes damp. Once I’m home, it can come straight out to dry.
A Refillable Water Bottle
A bottle that closes securely and fits in my bag would be handy for the travel day and around the resort.
I’d choose something I’m comfortable carrying rather than the biggest bottle available. It still has to fit alongside everything else!
Something for Wrinkled Clothes
Linen shorts and flowy trousers are lovely, but they don’t always emerge from a suitcase looking their best.
Before adding a mini steamer, I’ll check what our resort provides. A small wrinkle-release spray is another option, provided it’s suitable for the fabric. I’m trying to make packing easier, so this doesn’t need to become another bulky thing to squeeze in.
Shop My Cabo Packing List
If you’re planning a warm-weather getaway too, you can browse my Cabo packing list below for outfit ideas and practical travel finds.
Start with what you already have, then see whether there’s anything that would solve a packing problem for you. I’m reminding myself of that while I shop, too!
These are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Keeping My Cabo Beauty Bag Simple
After putting all this thought into outfits, I don’t want my beauty bag becoming another thing I overpack.
I’m planning to separate what I use every day from the extras I might want when we’re getting ready for dinner. That should make it easier to see what deserves suitcase space.
Makeup for Daytime and Dinner
A lighter base, mascara, a little colour on my cheeks and a lip colour could be enough for a simple holiday look. For dinner, I can add whatever makes me feel a little more dressed up without bringing every option in my makeup drawer.
Some things to consider include:
- Tinted moisturiser or a skin tint
- Concealer
- Mascara, waterproof if that’s your preference
- Strip Lashes, I wear on the daily
- Blush or bronzer
- A brow product
- A favourite lip colour
- Setting spray, if it’s already part of your routine
I’d start with products I know I like. Something that’s been sitting untouched at home probably doesn’t need to come on holiday hoping for its big moment.
Sun Care Deserves Its Own Space
After mentioning how uncomfortable I’ve been when I’ve caught too much sun, sunscreen and my hat deserve more attention than another lipstick.
I’ll make room for sunscreen for my face and body, SPF lip balm and a moisturiser. And the hat needs to stay on my head rather than spend the afternoon beside my lounger.
A Few Easy Hair Options
I like the idea of having a few simple ways to put my hair up, especially with the scarves I’m planning to try.
A brush or comb, hair ties and a claw clip are useful starting points. Then I can choose any styling products or tools based on the hairstyles I actually plan to wear.
Before packing more, I’ll check what our resort provides. No point using up suitcase space on something that’s already waiting in the room.
A fun girls-trip idea: the Cabo vacation scavenger list
This part just makes me smile because it turns a normal trip into something more memorable without requiring much effort. We did this on girl’s cruise vacation in 2024.
If you’re traveling with friends, one fun tradition to try is a vacation scavenger list. Not a serious one. Just a playful list of things to spot, photograph, or experience during the trip.
It’s a fun excuse to take photos, notice little moments, and laugh at the things that always happen on a group getaway.
Here’s a Cabo version that feels light and fun:
| Find or Capture | Bonus Fun |
|---|---|
| Your first margarita of the trip | Salt rim required |
| A sunset photo that looks fake | Cabo sunsets really are that pretty |
| Someone wearing a giant floppy sun hat | Bigger is better |
| The brightest cocktail you can find | Neon colors encouraged |
| A ridiculously oversized pool float | Flamingos count |
| A random beach dog living its best life | Vacation icon |
| A dessert you didn’t plan to order | Worth it |
| A group photo in matching sunglasses | Very girls trip |
| Someone attempting terrible Spanish | It happens |
| A drink with an umbrella in it | Classic |
| The best taco of the trip | Everyone votes |
| A dramatic wind-blown hair photo | Resort-ad energy |
| A colorful mural or pretty tile moment | Photo-worthy always |
| A poolside cheers photo at golden hour | Mandatory, basically |
| A stranger photobombing a picture | Bonus points |
| A late-night snack run | Every trip has one |
What I like about this idea is that it gives the trip its own little theme. It’s simple, low-pressure, and something friends can actually remember later.
If you love that relaxed, resort-style atmosphere in the evenings, these cordless lighting ideas are an easy way to bring that same feeling home.👉 [cordless lighting ideas]
The best packing tip of all: leave room
This might be the least glamorous advice in the article, but it’s still one of the best.
Leave some space in your suitcase.
Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s nice not to come home with a bag that barely closes because you packed for ten versions of yourself. A little room makes the whole trip easier.
It also forces you to be more thoughtful before you leave. If something doesn’t work with at least two or three other pieces, it probably doesn’t need to come.
Quick Cabo Packing Checklist (So You Don’t Forget Anything)
If you’re anything like me, packing often starts with good intentions and ends with a suitcase full of random things that seemed important at the time.
Before you zip up your bag, here’s a simple Cabo packing checklist to make sure you’ve covered the essentials without overpacking. Think of it as a quick sanity check before heading to the airport.
Clothing Essentials
For a typical 4–7 day Cabo getaway, this is usually more than enough:
- 2–3 swimsuits
- 2 lightweight daytime dresses
- linen shorts or breathable pants
- 2–3 casual tops or tanks
- 2–3 dinner outfits (midi dress, maxi dress, or wide-leg pants)
- 1 light layer for breezy evenings
- comfortable travel outfit for the plane
Warm-weather destinations like Cabo are all about breathable fabrics and versatile pieces. Items that mix and match easily will make getting dressed each day effortless.
Accessories
Accessories take up very little space but instantly make vacation outfits look more polished.
- wide-brim straw hat or sun hat
- oversized sunglasses
- beach tote or woven bag
- small evening clutch or crossbody bag
- simple jewelry (hoops, necklace, anklet)
- silk scarf or lightweight wrap
- hair clips or ties for beach days
A scarf is especially handy. It can be worn in your hair, around your neck, tied to a bag, or even used as a light wrap at dinner.
Beach & Pool Must-Haves
These are the things that usually end up in your resort bag every day.
- sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- SPF lip balm
- reusable water bottle
- sunglasses
- room key holder or small wallet
- portable phone charger
- hair clip or scrunchie
- small cosmetic pouch
Most all-inclusive resorts provide towels, but having your own essentials nearby keeps the day relaxed and easy.
Travel Essentials That Make Packing Easier
A few small travel items can make the entire trip smoother.
- packing cubes to organize outfits
- cosmetic or toiletry organizer
- travel jewelry case
- wrinkle-release spray or mini steamer
- laundry pouch for worn clothes
- zip bags for wet swimsuits
- portable charger
- travel-size skincare and makeup
These little things aren’t glamorous, but they can make the difference between a suitcase that feels chaotic and one that actually works.
To keep everything organized, I also recommend using packing cubes, which make it much easier to find outfits without unpacking your entire suitcase.
Beauty & Sun Care
Warm destinations call for a lighter beauty routine.
- tinted moisturizer or skin tint
- waterproof mascara
- bronzer or cream blush
- lip balm with SPF
- after-sun lotion or aloe
- hair oil or smoothing serum
- dry shampoo for quick refreshes
Cabo’s sunshine is beautiful but strong, so good sun protection and hydrating skincare are always worth packing.
Now to Get the Suitcase Closed
I have good intentions for this Cabo trip: coordinated outfits, fewer shoes and a suitcase full of things I’ll actually wear. Whether another three tanks and a pair of chocolate brown flip-flops sneak in before we leave remains to be seen.
One tip I’m trying this time: leave the suitcase open, but make a separate pile for last-minute additions. Before anything goes in, I’ll ask which outfit it belongs to. If I can’t answer, it stays home.
I’ll report back after the trip on what I wore and what enjoyed a lovely holiday without ever leaving my suitcase.
Are you an outfit planner, or do you also pack for a month when you’re only going for a week?
You Might Also Like to Read
Still planning your holiday outfits or deciding where to stay? Here are a couple of other posts you might enjoy:
- All-Inclusive Resorts in Cabo — If you’re still exploring options for your Cabo getaway.
- Casual Summer Dresses on Amazon — More dress ideas if you’re considering an easy daytime option for your suitcase.
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