pwwtravel

Packing

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:25:00 GMT

Packing

Tips on what and what not to bring

First, list out the days you will be there including travel days like this:

DATE CLOTHES

11/7/2025 TRAVEL DAY

11/7/2025 1ST NIGHT - NEED DINNER OUTFIT

11/8/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/9/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/10/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/11/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/12/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/13/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/14/2025 DINNER DRESS

11/15/2025 TRAVEL HOME DAY

If you are doing excursions, add those in so you have daytime outfits. Otherwise, you just need swimwear, coverups (for women) and dinner outfits.

Men – check the dress code at your resort. Don’t get caught off guard needing a pair of long pants for dinner or even some resorts require men to wear closed toe shoes to dinner.

Secondly, determine undergarments and pajamas.

I then list out item I need to get ready / hygiene, and this is best done by going through your routine at home. For example, at home I use eye drops when waking, then take my medications and the list builds from there. Do not think you need a 10-step skincare routine if you aren’t realistically doing that every day at home or could skip it for a few days to reduce your packing.

Sunscreen – if you have a carry on only, you can buy travel size sunscreen to bring or wait until you arrive to purchase at the resort, but you will pay more at the resort. In Cancun there is a general store right outside the airport that has sunscreen available, and the prices are very reasonable where you could purchase but Cabo, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica will need to be bought at the resort gift shop.

All resorts have a store where you can purchase anything you forgot! Toothbrush, deodorant, etc.

I am not much of a shoe packer. I wear tennis shoes on the plane, bring one pair of flip flops and a pair of sandals in black & another pair of sandals in brown. You do not need a different pair of heels for every outfit if shoes aren’t your thing. If they are, go ahead.

Resorts will also provide you with some toiletries such as shower gel and lotion, etc.

If we are checking a bag, I then go through the list and note where each item will be packed between carry on / luggage / husband’s bag.

If I need to buy things on the list, I will highlight that item and then remove the color once I’ve bought. That way I can see at a quick glance what I need.

Quick items to add to your own list:

Cash – the resort may say all-inclusive but you still need to tip your staff. Bring $1s, $5s, $10s and maybe a few $20s. Tipping guidelines are usually $1 drinks at the pool / beach, a few dollars at the breakfast buffet, $5 for lunch and $10 - $20 for dinner depending on your experience. For example, if you do a hibachi table you want to tip the server as well.

Pants, men only – as listed above, check your resort’s dress code prior to travelling to determine if men need to bring long pants. You can always bring one pair for several dinners and just change once you leave the restaurant

Tumbler, 20 – 24 oz. – if the trip is a week, bring 2 so you can rinse them out to dry each evening

Metal straws – resorts are no longer giving straws with drinks to protect the ocean life and to be environmental. If they do give you a straw on request, it will be paper. Ever try drinking a frozen drink with a paper straw in 100% humidity?

Waterproof beach bag – you can bring a cute bag for your pics, but it will likely rain at least one day so having a waterproof beach bag that zips is great to protect all your belongings if that downpour happens while you are away from your seat. Let me know if you need a recommendation.

Waterproof cell phone carriers – this helps to get great pictures and videos while in the pool and the ocean without fear of destroying it. I use a Casemate.

Chargers – be sure you have one for each of your items as needed. Kindles, phones, laptops, iPad, apple watches, etc. I have a large makeup bag that I put all mine in for one go to way to find them when I need them and not searching for cords in my bags.

Pool floatie – obviously you want to bring this deflated, preferably new so it lays flat in your suitcase. You can buy a cheap tool to blow them up once you are poolside or ask a pool concierge to do that for you. (It’s a good idea to tip them if they do this service for you)

Cooler, soft side / collapsible – if you are a beer drinker you will find that some resorts have trouble keeping their canned beer cold enough on the really hot days. A cooler that will lay flat in your suitcase will save you as you can ask for several beers at the bar and the staff will fill it with ice as well.

Poopourri – if you know, you know. This will make sharing a bathroom, especially if you are accustomed to having separate bathrooms at home, manageable. I NEVER go on a trip without this and if you are doing carry on only, it is sold in 2 oz. options.

Bug spray - My husband never gets bit, but the mosquitoes LOVE me. I bring a small size of repellant, or you can purchase wipes as well to reduce the amount of liquids in your luggage. Avon Skin So Soft is still around and a great option to not smell like chemicals.

OTC medications – hopefully you won’t need them, but they are cheaper and more accessible if you bring the minimal amount. This includes Ibuprofen, Tums, Benadryl, Immodium. The language barrier was amusing in hindsight as I tried to explain once that my husband needed Immodium by acting it out in the store.

Firestick – we do not bring one but our friends, especially those with children will bring one to be sure to find television shows they enjoy in English and resorts all have Smart TVs that can accommodate this. Some resorts will even allow you to sign into your streaming accounts on their TV's but the firestick is the safest option with your information.

Don’t be a rookie:

Hairdryer – one is provided in your room

Towels – bathroom and beach, resorts will provide them

MBJ - Montego Bay Airport

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:09:35 GMT

Information regarding flying in and out of Montego Bay, Jamaica

Terminals

MBJ has only one terminal

Immigration

You are required to complete an online immigration form prior to arrival. There is no cost. A confirmation will be sent to your email. Have this ready on your phone when you arrive. The first step after arriving is entering you information at the immigration kiosks. Once completed, it will print out your visa which you will need to keep with you.

Link: https://www.enterjamaica.gov.jm/

Customs

After you pick up your bags from luggage claim, you will head to the customs area.

Once in the customs area, you may or not be inspected by the officers.

Arrivals Area

Once you exit customs you will be in the main arrivals area of the airport. Most transportation companies have a counter who will then take you to your driver. Your trip documents will specify which company you will be traveling with.

Once outside and you are waiting for your driver, there are bars and vendors available. Most transportation companies we use will have a complimentary beer on board, but many resorts are a long drive if you want to stock up!

Club Mobay

MBJ offers a VIP arrival and/or departure service. Someone will meet you at the plane to help you through the arrival process. They will handle getting your bags and will expedite you through immigration and customs. You will then have access to their lounge before meeting your transportation. For departure, you will have access to the lounge for complimentary beverages and snacks.

This is not included with your trip. See link below for more info.

https://booking.vipattractions.com/

Resort Stay

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 22:43:28 GMT

Tips while staying at the resort.

Arrival

Resort check-in times are usually 3pm so your room may not be ready when you arrive. You will however have full access to the amenities. Grab some lunch, hit a bar, or explore the resort. We suggest putting swimsuits in your carry-on to change into after check-in to get your vacation started.

Drinking the water

This is still somewhat true. While we wouldn't recommend drinking large amounts from the sink, it's usually safe to brush your teeth in. They will have plenty of bottled water available and it's filtered in restaurants. Remember, STAY HYDRATED!

Phone Apps

Some resort brands have mobile apps you can download to your phone to get dining menus, activity schedules, and a schedule of nightly entertainment.

Security

The most common thing we hear "is it safe there". Yes. Any country or city has crime problems, but they differ from the US. Resort destinations rely on tourism and do everything they can to keep visitors safe. While you may see news stories about a crime in a destination it usually doesn't involve random tourists. Reports of visitors being drugged or given tainted alcohol are usually a result of someone drinking way too much. We do not send our clients to shady resorts!

Shopping

Resorts have various shops for toiletries, souvenirs, jewelry, and apparel. The prices are high so please remember to bring everything with you. A bottle of sunscreen can cost as much as $40. Many resorts also have vendor nights where they bring in outside people to sell various souvenirs. It's just like being in town, prepare to bargain! Some of them may have some type of credit card processing but we strongly suggest using cash.

Timeshare Sales

Many resort brands have some sort of timeshare program they will try to sell you. It might be called a vacation club or unlimited travel. Steer clear of these salespeople. They will try to trick into a presentation by offering resort coupons, free romantic dinners, spa packages, etc.

"The towel game"

This is the most unfortunate part of all-inclusive travel. Other guests who come out early to reserve pool/beach chairs and leave, not to be seen until later in the day. Most resorts have policies against this, but they rarely enforce them. It varies by resort and occupancy. Be prepared to get up early for a prime spot!

Weather

Most destinations don't have accurate meteorology services like the U.S. does and it's hard to predict the weather in the tropics. We have found most locals use the app Windy and it seems to be the most accurate.

TQO - Tulum Airport

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 21:08:48 GMT

I nformation regarding flying in and out of Tulum

Terminals

There is only one terminal at TQO.

Immigration

There are no forms to fill out when you arrive. Simply present your passport and boarding pass to the officer.

Customs

After you pick up your bags from luggage claim, you will exit to the customs area. You will place your bags into an X-Ray machine. An officer will let you know if any further inspection is required.

Transportation

When you exit the customs area into the arrivals area you will find many representatives with transportation companies. Find the one with the company we provide you. If you do not see them, turn right and exit through gate 5 to the transportation departure area.

Other Items to note

The Tulum airport is still very new and extremely remote. Dining is limited and even the restrooms forbid flushing toilet paper. The airport is a little over an hour from Tulum due to how the road connects to the main highway. On the plus side, it's not crowded so you can navigate through it quickly. Just things to consider when deciding to fly into TQO.

PUJ - Punta Cana Airport

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 22:00:42 GMT

Information regarding traveling in and out of Punta Cana

Terminals

PUJ has two terminals.

Terminal A - Completely open air. You will exit your plane to the tarmac.

Terminal B - Conventional inside terminal with jetways.

Immigration

You are required to complete an eTicket prior to arrival. There is no cost. You will need to have this handy on your phone when you present your passport to the officer.

Link: eTicket

C ustoms

After you pick up your bags from luggage claim, you will head to the customs area. We highly recommend getting a porter to carry your luggage. Just be sure to throw them a tip.

Once in the customs area, you may or not be inspected by the officers.

There will be restaurants, bars, and shopping on the way to the arrivals area. We advise to steer clear of these as you need to meet with your driver as soon as possible. One exception would be for buying items that you did not bring. Sunscreen and other items will be cheaper here than at the resort.

Arrivals Area

The initial arrival area is for the large-scale tour operators and taxi providers. We typically do not book our clients with them. You will need to walk outside, and your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it. You trip documents will specify which company you will be traveling with.

VIP Service

PUJ offers VIP arrival and/or departure service. On arrival, someone will meet you at the plane and take you to the VIP lounge where complimentary beverages and snacks are available. They will handle getting your bags and will expedite you through immigration and customs. For departure, you will have access to the lounge for complimentary beverages and snacks. There's even a pool overlooking the tarmac.

This is not included with your trip. See link below for more info.

https://www.puntacanainternationalairport.com/en/vip-services

SJD - Cabo San Lucas Airport

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 21:00:20 GMT

Information regarding flying in and out of Cabo San Lucas

Terminals

The Cabo San Lucas airport has only one terminal.

Immigration

There are no forms to fill out when you arrive. Simply present your passport and boarding pass to the officer.

Customs

After you pick up your bags from luggage claim, you will exit to the customs area. You are required to fill out a customs declaration form. They have them available at the line entrance. When you approach the officer, they will have you press a button. If you get the green light, you may proceed. If you get the red, then you will be taken back for additional screening.

Arrivals Area

Once outside you will need to cross the street to the transportation pick up area. Your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it.

There is a bar and vendors selling drinks in the arrivals area. We're not ones to discourage anyone as it's refreshing to have a cold one after a long flight. However, keep in mind that they are expensive and your transportation will have drinks on board to the resort.

Welcome Bar

Transportation Pick Up Area

CUN - Cancun Airport

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 20:53:15 GMT

Information regarding flying in and out of Cancun International Airport.

Terminals

Most US airlines fly into terminals 3 and 4.

- Terminal 3 - American, United, Delta, Spirit

- Terminal 4 - Frontier, Southwest, Jet Blue

Immigration

There are no forms to fill out when you arrive. Simply present your passport and boarding pass to the officer. There are also some automated lanes that use facial recognition and passport scanning.

Customs

After you pick up your bags from luggage claim, you will exit through the customs area. They have officers standing throughout who will randomly select passengers. If you are chosen, they will take you to another area where they will search all of your bags.

Timeshare Sales, a.k.a. "The shark tank"

Once through customs you will head towards the exit. To get there you will have to walk through a barrage of timeshare salespeople. They will tell you anything to get you to stop including they are your transportation provider. DO NOT STOP UNTIL YOU ARE OUTDOORS! Simply walk, look straight forward, and say no gracias.

Arrivals Area

Once outside you will look for your transportation provider who will be holding a sign with their company name and your name. Your trip info will have the company specified.

Visitax

This is a very controversial topic in Cancun travel. Visitax is a fee charged by the state of Quintana Roo for anyone flying into Cancun Airport. This is not included in your trip price. It's roughly $14 US and is paid online. As a travel agent I have to advise you that it is required. As a fellow traveler, I will tell you we only paid it one time and our credit card was hacked a week after. We have flown in and out of Cancun several times since and never had an issue. They do have people roaming the departure area of the terminal to see if people paid. Just ignore them and say no thank you. You do not have to show proof when you check in for your flight or to go through security.

If you wish to pay, we recommend using Travelkore as it seems to be more secure than the government site. They do charge about $4 more.

https://www.travelkore.com/visitax-explained

Baggage Porters

When your driver drops you off at the airport for departure, there are baggage porters waiting to take your bags. Many people turn them away; however we have found them very helpful. They will carry your bags, check you in, print your baggage tags and escort you to the counter. Just be sure to give them 5 or 10 bucks.

Why we don't prefer Frontier Airlines

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 20:08:08 GMT

Frontier Airlines - Fees and possible issues

Frontier operates most of the non-stop exclusive vacation flights to Mexico and the D.R. This page is to make our clients aware of the extra charges and possible issues with flying Frontier. As a disclaimer this is being written as our experiences flying out of St. Louis. Flight times and fees will vary by departure city.

Bags - While most airlines charge baggage fees, Frontier is definitely more expensive and comes with a 40lb weight limit. Most airlines do allow a free carry-on, not Frontier. While bag fees vary by flight, they are typically $60-$70 per bag (carry-on or checked). Compare that to average of $30-$40 on other airlines. Add another $25 if you want to check in your bag with an agent at the airport.
Seats - The upfront cost of a Frontier flight does not include seat selection. Want to pick your seat, add another $15 or more each person, each way. While this may not be a necessity for some, most people traveling with a family want to be able to sit together.
Flight times - The Frontier exclusive vacation flights usually leave early in the morning getting you to your destination in time for a quick lunch before hitting the beach. However, sometimes it may be a late morning or afternoon departure with a late afternoon or evening arrival. Yes, you flew non-stop, but you also wasted a half day of your vacation. The other issue that comes with a later departure is that you are depending on your plane arriving to your city on-time. If you're flight is delayed or cancelled, it's almost impossible to get on another flight. We personally would rather stop in Dallas or Charlotte and avoid these issues.
In-flight - After years of flying Frontier we tried an American flight. Even sitting in coach felt like first class compared to Frontier. Frontier does not offer Wi-Fi, power outlets, in-flight entertainment, or complimentary beverages and snacks. Again, this may not be a big deal to most, we just prefer a higher level of service.

We don't completely discourage people from flying Frontier, we just want to make you aware of these details. All airlines and flights can experience issues and delays. Typically, Frontier is cheaper than other airlines, but this may not be the case when you add all the extras. Be prepared to add at least $300 a couple and $600 for a family of four to your total vacation price. We strongly encourage travelers to purchase a bundled package that includes seats and bags. As always, we will work with you to get the best flight option for your needs.

Resort Dining

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 20:04:15 GMT

Resort Dining

All resorts differ in options, but most have a common lineup. Also, most brands post their menus online so you can research them prior to booking and departure. Remember it's all-inclusive so get whatever you want and no need to wait for the check! *Premium options are the only exception to the all-inclusive package. You may see certain restaurants have an upcharge for foods like Wagyu steak or lobster. They may also have premium wines or spirits.

Dining options
Breakfast - Main buffet, coffee shop, or a specific restaurant for sit-down meal service.
Lunch - Main buffet, specified restaurant, pool/beach service, and snack bars.
Dinner - The typical resort has five or more restaurants for dinner. Mexican, French, Italian, Asian, Mediterranean, steak house, and seafood are the usual themes. While the buffet is an option at family resorts, it's usually closed at adult only resorts.
Room service - Don't feel like going out? Order room service and eat a meal in the comfort of your room or balcony.
Bars - Lobby, sports bar, beach, pool swim-up, and a nightclub.
Dress codes are strictly enforced by restaurant staff. During the day your fine to wear your beach wear for lunch. However, at night somewhat formal wear is required at most restaurants. Long pants/closed toe shoes for the men and dresses for the ladies.
Tips
Reservations - Most resorts don't require dinner reservations other than the Hibachi tables. It's first come first serve. The busiest times are 7-9 so plan to wait if going during those times. If your resort does require reservations, feel free to stop by anytime to see if they can get you in. Many times, they will.
Some resorts offer food trucks, ice cream and churro carts, pizza ovens, and special theme night dinners. Keep your eye out.
It's all-inclusive, get what you want. Don't feel bad about ordering two appetizers or even two meals!

Choosing a room category

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 19:50:31 GMT

Choosing a room category

Room categories vary by name at each resort but typically fall into the following categories. Keep in mind you will not be spending the majority of your time in the room. Standard rooms have a sitting area, TV, mini fridge, safe, closet, hair dryer, balcony/patio, and coffee/expresso maker.

Room categories
Tropical/Garden View - Usually ground or second floor and not really a view of anything. Cheapest, but consider its less steps to get to.
Swim-up - Not all resorts have these, but your room will have direct access to a private pool.
Ocean View - In most cases this means you are able to see the ocean in some way. It might be just a glimpse through the trees or an adjacent building. Very deceptive and usually not worth it.
Ocean Front - If an ocean view from your room is important, then this is the best option. They are located in the buildings closest to the beach.
Family suites - These include two bedrooms and it's a good option for those traveling with children. Not all resorts have these, contact us and we can give you some recommendations.
Master and Presidential Suites - These are suites with a living room and separate bedroom. They can get pretty extravagant depending on the resort but so does the price tag.
VIP service - Most brands offer some type of VIP package. This could mean better room categories or locations, access to special lounges and restaurants, and other amenities. We will give you our honest opinion if we think it's worth it at your resort.
Tips
Let the staff know what beverages you would like to have stocked in your mini fridge.
Housekeeping will clean your room while you are out for the day.

Our guide to tipping

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 23:55:52 GMT

Most resorts state that gratuities are not required. While this is true, we always recommend tipping. The average resort employee makes less than $10 a day so you can see what a few dollars here and there can mean to them. Below is a general guide for when we tip and the general amounts.

Transfer driver - $20-40 depending on the total distance of the drive and driver courtesy. (each way)
Bellman - $5-10
Breakfast - $2-3
Lunch - $3-5
Dinner - $10-20 depending on the type of dinner and service.
Bartenders/Servers - While we don't tip on every drink, a dollar here and there is appreciated. Consider laying down a five or ten if you plan on being at a bar for a couple hours or more.
Pool attendant/concierge - Not all resorts have these but tipping them can be crucial if you want prime real estate at the pool. $10-20 on the first day may secure your chairs for the week!
Housekeeping - $2-3 per day. Be sure to leave this on the bed.
Butler/Concierge - If a resort provides this service, then tip on the service provided. If they only introduce themselves and you never see them again, don't tip at all. If they have gone all out, leave a hefty one on departure. I've never done more than $100 though.
Airport baggage porters - $5-10. At the airport you might be approached by porters wanting to take your bags. We used to think this was a scam but have recently realized it's well worth the tip. They will help you navigate your way through the airport chaos and will help you find your driver on arrival or check in to your flight faster when leaving.

Here's some other pointers regarding tipping

For a seven night trip we recommend bringing $500 in cash broken up by denomination. $150 in ones, $150 in fives, $100 in tens and $100 in twenties. We always come back with spare money but it's best to have more than not enough. ATM's come with hefty fees abroad.
Not all tips have to be money. Consider leaving items for staff if you think they would like or need them. For example, the people in the Dominican Republic are huge baseball fans. Leaving them a cup with an MLB logo on it can mean a lot to them or their children. Also mentioning by them by name in a review can get them rewarded by the resort.
Carry a cheap wallet for cash in your beach bag, leave the real one in your safe. Slipping a few dollars in your waterproof phone case is also helpful while at the swim up bar.