What to Pack For the Riviera Maya in Mexico
What to Pack For the Riviera Maya, According to a Frequent Flyer
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As a frequent traveler, I love visiting beautiful beachside properties that are only a short flight from Atlanta, where I currently live. Luckily, since I fly out of the world's busiest airport, I have access to many stunning destinations via nonstop service — all of which are reachable in about three hours or less. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Riviera Maya, Mexico, for my friend's birthday. We stayed at the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya, a newly remodeled oceanfront resort that offers up luxury and relaxation.
Located about 35 minutes from Cancun's airport, the resort provided roundtrip transportation to and from the property through their partner Amstar. Nestled on 1.5 acres of white sand beach, the resort had breathtaking ocean, resort, and tropical views. We stayed in an ocean-view private pool room, which was the perfect place for us to enjoy the Mexican sun while relaxing by the dipping pool with our music.
The resort's amenities were equally impressive. I spent hours lounging by the sprawling pool and adjacent hot tub, showing off my newest swimwear. This resort offered everything I needed for an unforgettable stay, including a butler who provided plenty of champagne so we could pop bottles and celebrate. Whether hanging out by the pool or enjoying dinner outdoors, the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya was a paradise that delivered both indulgence and tranquility.
Ahead, find out what I recommend packing for a luxurious Mexican getaway.
What to Do in Riviera Maya: Book a Boat Ride
There's nothing like being on the water in a beautiful destination overlooking the Caribbean coastline like the Riviera Maya. We booked a luxury snorkeling cruise on Viator and the experience was dreamy from swimming with sea turtles to enjoying lunch and an open bar on the boat. My one tip would be to book this experience early as it can fill up quickly depending on when you travel.
A Portable Charger
Mophie Juice Pack Mini Portable Charger ($20)
There's nothing worse than watching a movie on the plane when your phone dies, or getting ready to take pics at the resort and your battery runs out at that exact moment. The horror! I always pack at least two portable chargers when going on vacation (a friend will always need one). I like the Mophie brand, which has several options and great reviews.
Makeup Primer That Stands Up to Humidity
Milk Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer ($38)
If you want a flawless face that doesn't melt, you'll need the Milk Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide. When you put this makeup primer on, your beauty look will stay put — even in the Mexican humidity. I personally tested out this product while on vacation and it got the job done.
Glowing Sun Protection
Golden Amber Sun Shield Body Glow Sunscreen ($42)
I've been obsessed with Kopari ever since I started using their natural deodorant years ago after hearing an ad on my favorite podcast. By now, I've tried most of their line and am a huge fan of their Golden Amber Sun Shield Body Glow Sunscreen SPF 30. It feels good knowing I can protect my skin from the sun, all while having a sun-kissed hue.
A Fun Outfit For Dinner
Champagne Romper by Amanda Uprichard ($143, originally $238)
As an '80s baby who grew up in the '90s, I love that skorts are making a comeback. This romper by Amanda Uprichard is the perfect choice for an evening out and about. I've had my eye on this romper for months; it pairs nicely with espadrilles or sandals for an outdoor dinner or date night.
Travel Tip: Dining was a delight at the resort, with unlimited food and beverages at nine themed restaurants and bars. Lola Beach Restaurant stood out with its modern Mexican and Latin Caribbean cuisine.
A Swimsuit For the Spa
Andrea Iyamah Rora Swimsuit in Aloe ($147, originally $210)
Pack a chic one-piece bathing suit like the Andrea Iyamah Rora swimsuit. This is perfect for enjoying the amenities of the spa, thanks to its '70s-inspired high cut and adjustable tie back.
Travel Tip: The Zen Spa at Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya was exquisite, featuring 10 spa suites that provided the most tranquil setting for restorative treatments. The decor and services were beautifully infused with Mayan culture, and I enjoyed the hydrotherapy pools before indulging in a relaxing massage.
A Practical and Stylish Carry-On
Calpak Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage ($265)
When traveling, I always reach for the Calpak Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage which is my essential roller bag. My laptop and charger go in the front and stay secure and protected, while the main opening contains all of my vacation necessities.
A Vibrant Bar-Crawl Outfit
Retrofête Brietta Silk Dress ($274, originally $548)
A girls trip to Mexico is incomplete without a bar crawl in Playa Del Carmen. The Retrofête Brietta Silk Dress with its flowy fit-and-flare style will help you dance the night away. The bright colors are right on theme for the tropical climate, too. Take it from me: in this dress, all eyes will be on you.
Eyewear Essentials
Krewe Breton sunglasses ($375)
I don't go anywhere without a pair of sunnies from New Orleans-based Krewe. I purchased my first pair when they were sold at a few boutiques in New Orleans and now they're available nationwide. The quality of these sunglasses is superb thanks to the brand's process of hand-crafting the frames. Some of their glasses are 24K-gold-plated: my favorites are the Breton in matte oyster 24K polarized.
A Versatile Bumbag
Louis Vuitton Mini Bumbag ($2,030)
I like to be hands-free on vacation so I have a plethora of bumbags ranging from affordable to luxurious. You want a bag that can carry all of your mini essentials so you'll be squared away while relaxing in paradise. The hot Louis Vuitton Mini Bumbag that was sold out is now back in stock. It's the ideal size and it easily transitions from day to night.
A Pair of Slides
Fendi FF Jacquard Dual Buckle Slides ($995)
I've tried many slides and sandals and it's safe to say my favorite pair for wearing around the resort are the Fendi FF Jacquard Dual Buckle Slides. They are practically made for hanging poolside, shopping, or simply lounging on the beach in your new swimsuit.
Alexis Felder, widely known as LexiWithTheCurls, is a geriatric millennial and lifestyle influencer based in Atlanta. A trailblazing beauty blogger turned freelance writer, Alexis has contributed to publications such as The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ebony, Essence, MadameNoire, and more. As an avid traveler, she enjoys exploring new destinations and sharing her adventures with her audience.
