Explore Belize: Camo Clothing, Safe Or Not?

Belize is a laid-back country with a Caribbean feel and a hot and humid climate. If you're planning a trip to Belize, you might be wondering what to pack. It's important to know that it is illegal to wear camouflage print in Belize—it is reserved for the military. So, when packing for Belize, skip anything with a camo print and opt for lightweight, casual clothing in natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen.

Why is camo illegal in Belize?

Camo clothing is illegal in Belize because it is reserved for the military and law enforcement. The country has strict laws prohibiting civilians from wearing or possessing any item with a camouflage print. This means that whether you are a local or a tourist, you are not allowed to wear camo print in Belize.

Belize is one of several countries in the Caribbean that prohibit civilians from wearing camouflage. Other countries with similar laws include Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. In these countries, camouflage is often considered a part of the military uniform, and civilians wearing camo can be mistaken for military personnel or law enforcement officers.

The laws prohibiting civilians from wearing camouflage in Belize and other countries are primarily centred around concerns of confusion, rebellion, or support for terrorist organizations. By reserving camo print exclusively for military or law enforcement use, these countries aim to maintain order and avoid any potential misunderstandings or security risks that could arise from civilians wearing camouflage.

It is important to respect the laws and cultural norms of the country you are visiting. If you are planning a trip to Belize, it is advisable to leave your camo clothing at home and opt for other types of clothing that are more suitable for the beach and jungle environment that the country offers.

What is the weather like in Belize?

Belize has a very comfortable tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84°F (29°C). The temperature rarely falls below 60°F (16°C) in winter and sits at around 86°F (30°C) in summer. Humidity is consistently around 85%.

Belize has two seasons: the wet and the dry. The dry season falls between January and May and is characterised by mild, short bursts of rainfall. The wet season, from June to December, sees parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain, with heavy storms occurring in the late afternoon. The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather.

The rainiest month is September, and the driest is April. Throughout the year, expect warm to hot temperatures and consistent humidity.

The current weather in Belize is characterised by scattered thunderstorms and cloudy skies, with highs of 90°F and lows of 75°F.

What should I pack for a beach vacation in Belize?

Belize is a beach and jungle destination, so your packing list will be activity-oriented, with lightweight clothes and swimsuits, as well as good footwear and items for active day trips. The weather will be hot and humid, so pack clothes that are comfortable in hot weather all day long. The rainy season in Belize is from June to November, with hurricanes likely between August and October, so be sure to bring a raincoat or lightweight waterproof jacket. Here is a suggested packing list for a beach vacation in Belize:

Clothing

• Regular lightweight cotton t-shirts
• Long-sleeve shirts for sun protection and jungle hiking
• 1-2 dress shirts/blouses for dining at nice restaurants
• Shorts or skirts, preferably cotton
• Beachwear/swimsuits (for women, a sarong is multi-purpose and very handy)
• Two pairs of long pants (something dressy and something for jungle hiking)
• Loose-fitting long pants (for extra sun and mosquito protection)
• Rash guard (great for sun protection while swimming and snorkelling)
• Flip-flops and sandals
• Water shoes (for activities like cave tubing, kayaking, etc.)
• Sturdy tennis shoes or hiking boots (if visiting the jungle, waterproof is best)
• Hats (floppy sun hat, baseball cap, or anything wide-brimmed)
• Underwear and comfortable socks
• Pajamas (loose, breezy, and cool)
• One nice outfit for a romantic dinner (nothing too fancy or heavy)

Accessories

• Sunglasses (prescription sunglasses if you wear prescription glasses)
• Silicone rings (instead of your wedding ring)
• Beach bag
• Waterproof bag or small pouch (for keeping things dry on the beach or boat)
• GoPro and attachments for underwater photos
• Books or an e-reader
• Floating wrist strap for your phone or GoPro
• Packable sun hat
• Dry bag (to protect your belongings and double as a daypack for wet excursions)
• Waterproof phone pouch (great for cave tubing)
• Backpack for daily activities and excursions

Toiletries and Medications

• Reef-safe sunscreen with a high SPF
• Aloe vera gel (in case of sunburn)
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Body wash
• Deodorant
• Antiperspirant
• Body lotion
• Antibacterial wipes
• Makeup
• Hair products
• Hair ties and clips (it can get windy on the beaches)
• Razors and shaving cream
• Prescription glasses or contact lenses and contact lens solution
• Insect repellent (DEET-based repellent is recommended)
• First aid kit (Band-Aids, blister pads, Neosporin, anti-itch cream, etc.)
• Aspirin or Ibuprofen
• Pepto-Bismol
• Motion sickness medication
• Prescription medications
• Eye drops

Electronics

• Battery packs and spare batteries
• Chargers
• Cell phone (with a good international roaming plan)

Other

• Cash (to avoid steep credit card fees; USD is widely accepted)
• Passport
• Identification card (driver's license) and insurance card with emergency contact information (make photocopies and keep digital copies)
• Hard copy of your travel insurance policy

Finally, it is illegal to wear camouflage print clothing in Belize, as it is reserved for the military.

What should I wear for trekking in Belize?

When packing for a trek in Belize, it's important to keep in mind the country's hot and humid climate. Here are some essential items to consider for your trekking wardrobe:

• Lightweight and breathable fabrics: Opt for clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton, silk, or linen. These materials will help keep you cool and comfortable in the tropical climate.
• Light wool base layers: Consider packing items made from light wool, such as socks and shirts. Wool is an excellent choice for trekking as it helps regulate body temperature, keeping you warm in the cold and wicking away moisture when it's hot.
• Comfortable and sturdy footwear: Invest in a good pair of comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Make sure they provide ample support and won't hurt your feet during long treks. Additionally, consider bringing waterproof shoes or sandals for river crossings or muddy trails.
• Rain gear: The rainy season in Belize usually lasts from June to November, with short but intense rain showers. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, a travel umbrella, and a waterproof bag to protect your belongings from the rain.
• Sun protection: Don't forget to pack a sun hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. A lightweight long-sleeved shirt can also provide additional protection from the sun.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and sand flies can be a nuisance, especially during the rainy season. Pack insect repellent to keep them at bay. You may also want to consider mosquito-repellent wristbands, which are a deet-free and non-toxic option.
• Quick-dry clothing: Consider packing clothing made from quick-dry fabrics, especially if you plan to trek near water sources. This will ensure that your clothes dry quickly if they get wet.
• Layers for variable temperatures: While Belize is generally hot and humid, temperatures can drop slightly in the evenings, especially in coastal or jungle areas. Pack a lightweight sweater or wrap to layer over your clothes if needed.
• Convertible clothing: To adapt to varying temperatures and activities, consider packing convertible clothing items such as convertible hiking pants with zip-off legs. This will allow you to quickly adjust your attire according to the weather and your level of activity.
• Avoid camouflage print: It is important to note that wearing camouflage print is illegal in Belize as it is reserved for military personnel. Make sure to avoid packing any clothing with camouflage patterns.

Remember to pack according to the season you'll be visiting. The dry season, from February to May, tends to be slightly cooler, while the rainy season, from June to November, can be more humid. Additionally, consider the level of activity you plan to engage in and pack accordingly.

What are some clothing tips for women visiting Belize?

Clothing Tips for Women Visiting Belize

Belize is a balmy, beachy paradise with a hot and humid climate, so it's important to pack accordingly. Here are some clothing tips for women travelling to Belize:

• Leave valuables at home – it is better to be safe than sorry, so only pack the essentials and avoid bringing anything you wouldn't want to lose or have stolen.
• Don't pack cold-weather clothing – Belize is warm year-round, so you'll likely never need more than a light layer for cooler evenings.
• Skip the denim – denim and other heavy fabrics like white denim are not ideal in the Belizean climate. Opt for lighter, fast-drying materials like linen or moisture-wicking activewear.
• Pack casual outfits – Belizean style is typically "island casual". Plan to bring comfortable, easy outfits that can transition from daywear to evening wear.
• Bring swimwear and cover-ups – as a tropical destination, you'll likely spend a lot of time at the beach or by the pool. Pack swimwear and cover-ups such as sarongs, dresses, or loose tops.
• Choose comfortable footwear – sandals are ideal for most activities in Belize, but pack a pair of hiking sandals or shoes for more active days.
• Protect yourself from the sun – the sun can be intense in Belize, so be sure to pack a sun hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Layer up for the dry season – if you're visiting during the dry season (January to May), it can be chilly at night. Pack a sweater or light jacket and a pair of long pants in case of cooler temperatures.
• Prepare for the rain – if you're visiting during the wet season (June to November), expect short but intense rain showers. Bring a raincoat or lightweight waterproof jacket, and a travel umbrella to stay dry.
• Avoid camouflage print – wearing camouflage is illegal in Belize as it is reserved for military personnel.
• Pack light – Belize is a casual and relaxed destination, so you don't need to bring a lot of luggage. Focus on packing essentials and light, breathable clothing.

Frequently asked questions