If you’ve spent any time around frequent Cozumel travelers you’ve probably heard the phrase “we did the bag drag.” It sounds like either an Olympic event or a mild medical condition, but it’s actually the time-honored journey from the Cancun Airport to Cozumel . But, before deciding on this course of action consider your goal - time or cost savings. We opted for cost so we  started pricing round-trip United flights to and from the island. After researching the total cost, we quickly began wondering if flying into Cancun might be the smarter option for your dollar. The data showed that flights from Denver International Airport direct to Cancun are usually much cheaper than flights from Denver to Cozumel. Hmmm we thought; maybe we should look deeper into this.

For  a couple booking a round trip United economy plus flight one month in advance (note: I didn't find a direct United flights available) with a layover in Houston, the total travel time is estimated at 6 hours and the cost was $1762.14. Conversely to fly United direct into Cancun on the same dates the travel time is reduced to 4 hours and the the total cost was $1067.98. That's a significant savings of $694.16. Okay, looking good from a savings point of view but now how to complete the trip?

Public and private transportation from Cancun to the Playa ferry pier is readily available via a host of local companies with a travel time of just under 2 hours advertised. We at Cozumello.com chose the private route recommend Leo Chavez with MeetPlaya. They have always been punctual and hassle free when we've used them. The round trip costs $140 USD for 2 adults.  If you choose public transportation the ADO bus is a great low cost option at around $17 bucks per person..  

Once aboard the MeetPlaya shuttle to Playa del Carmen, things calm down considerably. The air conditioning works, the seats are comfy, and for a brief moment you think, “This is easy. I’ve mastered international travel.”

That confidence lasts right up until you begin dragging two rolling suitcases, a backpack, and possibly dive gear through Playa del Carmen in 90-degree humidity while dodging scooters, tourists, and the occasional street taco distraction but, if you've packed light it's not that bad! You can hire a porter to wheel all your bags to the ferry for you and the cost for that is minimal. 

Then comes the ferry.

On calm days, the crossing to Cozumel is lovely. Beautiful blue water, sea breeze and tropical vibes. Grab yourself a cool drink and enjoy the ride! On rough days, however, the ferry transforms into what can  be described as a tequila-free pirate ride. Experienced bag draggers know to sit outside, stare at the horizon, and avoid eye contact with anyone turning slightly green. The cost of the Xcaret ferry crossing is approx. $15.00 per adult with discount. FYI - Xcaret is offering that price using the promo code FERRYWEB until December 31st, 2026. You can book your ticket at: https://www.xailing.com/en/ferry-cozumel/

Eventually, the ferry docks, the island appears, and suddenly all is forgiven. You step onto Cozumel soil feeling victorious, slightly sweaty, and oddly proud of yourself for saving enough money (in the neighborhood of $500) to justify a beachfront margarita. And the arrival time? Pretty darn close to the arrival time of flying Denver to Cozumel with the layover. 

And honestly, that’s the magic of the bag drag. It’s not for everyone but honestly there are some real savings to be had.