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Last updated 1 month ago
Cancun is one of the world’s most popular beach resort destinations, attracting millions of tourists each year.
Due to its immense popularity, holiday costs in this destination are quite high, more so than many other similar destinations.
If you’re planning a vacation to a tropical paradise soon, check out these five tips to save money.

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Conde Nast has published a British Post Office report based on research into the most affordable and most expensive holiday destinations around the world.
Cancun ranked in the top 10 most expensive travel destinations, alongside cities such as New York, Downtown Dubai and Punta Cana.
However, with the right planning, you can save money at any vacation destination.
Tip 1 – Choose your dates wisely
When it comes to a popular vacation destination like Cancun, the dates you travel are important.
Prices for everything from plane tickets to hotels are usually higher during peak seasons and lower during off-seasons.
For example, a round-trip flight from Miami to Cancun between July 6 and July 13 will cost at least $314.
Changing the dates from the 9th to the 17th will cost you $260. It’s not a huge difference, but it can add up if you’re traveling with a group.
Check it out on Google Flights here.
Cancun’s high season is winter and spring break, so unless you’re trying to escape the cold or taking a spring break vacation, we recommend traveling in late spring, summer, or early fall.




Tip #1 continued – The day of the week matters too
Airfare and accommodation costs will vary depending on which day of the week you choose.
Both are almost always cheaper during the week, and the difference can be significant.
Another advantage of taking your vacation on a weekday is that there are fewer crowds.




Tip 2 – Compare hotels
Nightly hotel rates can vary widely from hotel to hotel, even within the same category, so it’s important to shop around.
First, decide the area where you want to stay, then choose the type of hotel you prefer, and then compare options from there.
For example, the difference in price for an all-inclusive in Cancun can be more than $1,500.




Tip 3 – Book your transportation in advance
One thing that visitors to Cancun don’t know, especially first-time visitors, is that booking your airport transfer in advance can sometimes be cheaper than booking it upon arrival.
Taxi fares from Cancun Airport to the Hotel Zone start at around $25 if you book online, but the starting price rises to $45 if you book directly.
The final price will vary depending on your destination, but booking in advance or waiting can make a big difference in price.




Tip 4 – Look for free or low-cost activities
Cancun is a pricey vacation destination, but there are a surprising number of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in the area.
Visiting the beach, the best thing to do in Cancun, is completely free.
Plus, you can explore Cancun’s Mayan ruins and museums, visit the Kayoc Planetarium for just a few dollars per person, catch live music at Plaza La Isla Cancun, and explore Palapas Park for free.




Tip 5 – Consider all-inclusive
All-inclusives can be pricey, but you might be surprised at how much money you can actually save by choosing an all-inclusive for your Cancun vacation.
All meals, snacks and drinks are included in the price, which could otherwise take a significant chunk out of your holiday budget.
Most all-inclusive resorts also include entertainment and a range of activities.




Report
Conde Nast has published a British Post Office report based on research into the most affordable and most expensive holiday destinations around the world.
Cancun ranked in the top 10 most expensive travel destinations, alongside cities such as New York, Downtown Dubai and Punta Cana.
However, with the right planning, you can save money at any vacation destination.
Plan your next trip to Cancun:
Alert to travelers: don’t forget your travel insurance on your next trip!
Choose from thousands of hotels, resorts & hostels in Cancun & Riviera Maya with free cancellation on most accommodations.
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