Traveling to Playa del Carmen, Mexico with kids can really be fun but there a few things you should that could make or break your trip! I recently got back from a solo trip to Playa del Carmen with my 2-year old and I so wish I would have known what I know now.
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended – at no extra cost to you, of course. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my disclosure here.
Playa del Carmen is such a beautiful place and there’s so much to do! We were only there for a few nights but that really wasn’t enough time to explore as much as I would have liked to. If you want to know how to get to Playa del Carmen, click here.
Pack light
When traveling with kids, packing as light as possible will make a huge difference for you.
I know packing light may sound a little overwhelming to you – especially if you’re used to traveling with lots of luggage (you know who you are?). It’s definitely more challenging when you are traveling with kids. As a mommy, we tend to pack “just in case” items – which means we usually overpack. ? I highly suggest you start packing early and only pack what you will actually need.
My carry-on bag w/ my packing cubes 
My carry-on bag w/ my packing cubes 
My carry-on bag w/ my packing cubes 
My carry-on bag w/ my Eagle Creek packing cubes
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended – at no extra cost to you, of course. Read my disclosure here.
How to pack?
Use packing cubes to help organize your suitcase. Ziplock bags are a good alternative if you don’t have packing cubes. Try to stick to one carry-on bag and 1 personal item per person. I waited until the last minute and packed little more than I needed.
Pack your travel essentials
Be sure to pack a medicine kit for you and your little one. My medicine kit is with me anytime that I travel. I’ve learned (the hard way) how important it is to travel with the travel essentials. Be sure to grab your FREE copy of essential tips to pack your carry-on like a PRO!
Pack everything that you may need (ex. Tylenol, Motrin, a thermometer, diaper cream, vaseline, q-tips, etc). Traveling with kids can be very unpredictable so you want to be sure you are prepared. Take any medicine that you may need or are currently taking – especially when traveling abroad. So, now you’re all packed . . .
Where will you stay?
You will need to put a lot of thought into where you will actually be staying while traveling with kids in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
Where you will be staying will give you an idea of what food options you will have for your little one. If you have a picky eater and/or you are very particular with food choices you may want to consider an all-inclusive resort and/or pack lots of food and snacks.
Related: Playa Del Carmen Mexico . . . How to get there?
You could also order room service so check out the hotel/resort menu options. I have a really picky eater so I always travel with her own food and snacks. Since we didn’t stay at an all-inclusive resort, I made sure that I had lots of food choices for her (Ex. oatmeal, cereal bars, veggie/fruit pouches, crackers, juice, etc).
How to get around?
Once you have an idea of what you will want to do while you’re in Playa del Carmen, you’ll want to decide how to get around since you are traveling with kids. Staying at an all-inclusive resort is what many families do since its the easiest option.
You may not venture off too far if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort so you may not need or want to take a stroller. If you are not staying at an all-inclusive resort and/or you plan of venturing out (away from the resort/hotel), you DEFINITELY will want to take a stroller.
Waiting to go through customs at the CUN airport. 
Haley taking a nap in the stroller at the CUN airport the morning we were headed back to MIA. 
In front of Fiesta Inn. About to walk to the beach. 
In front of Fiesta Inn. About to walk to the beach.
Taking a stroller?
I had a love/hate relationship with my stroller while in Playa del Carmen.? We did a lot of walking so a stroller is highly recommended however the city is not accessible for strollers. Most of the sidewalks throughout Playa del Carmen don’t have a ramp (that leads you from the sidewalk onto the street). It’s usually a high step which means you have to pick the stroller up and place it down several times as you are walking through the city. The other option is to avoid sidewalks all together and just walk along the street but it’s not recommended.
Using a stroller did really come in handy! It was really warm outside and who wants to be carrying their little one around all day? . . . I know I didn’t! It helped me keep her cool and out of the direct sun. She also was able to nap in the stroller when we spent the day at the beach and throughout our trip (ex. at the airport, out to lunch or dinner, etc).
Haley taking a nap when we spent the day at the beach. 
Haley taking a nap when we spent the day at the beach. 
Haley taking a nap when we spent the day at the beach. 
Haley taking a nap when we spent the day at the beach. 
Haley being dramatic ?
Just know when you’re traveling to Playa del Carmen, Mexico with a toddler it can be a little challenging when walking through the city, the beach and catching a taxi. For the most part, I’m happy I had my stroller! ?
Happy Travels!
Like what you’ve read? Click here to stay in the loop! Get travel tips, updates, and giveaways.
