Belize's San Pedro: Packing For Paradise

San Pedro, Belize is a tropical destination, so it's important to pack light and casual clothing. The weather is reliably warm all year round, with a dry season from December to May and a green season from June to November. During the dry season, expect little to no rainfall, with temperatures in the 60s or 70s overnight and sunny days. As spring approaches, the weather heats up, with temperatures reaching the 90s and sometimes triple digits from March to May. During the green season, there will be some rain, but also plenty of sunshine. Temperatures are hot and muggy, and it's important to be prepared for both rain and shine.

- Lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton t-shirts, tank tops, skirts, sundresses, and khaki shorts.

- Bathing suits and cover-ups.

- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and chapstick with SPF.

- Rain gear: a small umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket or poncho.

- Insect repellent.

- Sturdy closed-toed shoes for activities like hiking and cave tubing.

- Reusable water bottle.

- Basic toiletries, including travel-sized shampoo and conditioner, hairbrush, hair dryer, and sunscreen.

- Mosquito repellent is critical, and it is also recommended to bring baby oil for sand flies.

- First aid kit with bandaids, travel-sized hand sanitizer, and any personal medications or prescriptions.

- Electronics and chargers, including a phone, camera, and headlamp (if doing cave tours).

- Passport and other important documentation, such as driver's license, travel insurance policy, and scuba certification (if applicable).

- Credit and ATM cards.

- Snorkeling or diving equipment (optional).

Clothing essentials

San Pedro, Belize is a casual and laid-back destination, so you won't need to pack any formal wear. The weather is reliably warm, so packing for warm weather is essential. Here are the clothing essentials you should consider when packing for San Pedro, Belize:

• Loose-fitting, lightweight, and breathable clothing: The tropical climate in Belize calls for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or quick-drying cotton/synthetic blends. Pack items such as t-shirts, tank tops, flowy tops, and linen shirts.
• Swimwear: Bring at least two swimsuits, including one that is sturdy and comfortable for activities like snorkelling or diving.
• Cover-ups: Pack cover-ups such as sarongs, beachwear, or lightweight pants and shirts to wear around the pool or resort.
• Sun protection: The sun can be intense in Belize, so it is crucial to protect yourself. Bring a sun hat with a wide brim, sunglasses (regular or prescription), and reef-safe sunscreen with a high SPF.
• Light layers for evenings: While the days are warm, the temperatures can drop slightly in the evenings, especially during the cooler months. Pack a lightweight jacket, cardigan, sweater, or kimono to layer up when needed.
• Rain gear: Depending on the season, you may experience rain showers. Pack a lightweight raincoat, poncho, or travel umbrella to stay dry.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking sandals are ideal for most activities. Additionally, consider packing hiking shoes or boots if you plan to explore the jungle or engage in hiking activities. Flip-flops are also useful for the beach and hostel showers.
• Undergarments: Pack comfortable underwear, socks, and sleepwear. Sports bras are recommended if you plan to engage in active pursuits.
• Bottoms: Lightweight trousers, such as jeans or hiking pants, are suitable for travel and outdoor activities. Shorts or skirts can be worn in most places, except for towns, where you may prefer to dress more conservatively.
• Nightlife attire: While nightlife in San Pedro is still casual, you may want to dress up a little. Men can opt for khaki shorts and short-sleeved shirts, while women can choose from dresses, skirts, or nice blouses.
• Belize Jungle Tours: If you plan to join a jungle tour, consider packing long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from vegetation and insects.
• Belize Island Tours: For island tours, a rash guard or a shirt to cover up from the sun is recommended.
• Accessories: Don't forget to pack jewellery, hair accessories, and hats to complete your outfits.

Toiletries and extras

When packing toiletries and extras for your trip to San Pedro, Belize, it's important to consider the climate, activities, and availability of certain products on the island. Here's a detailed guide to help you pack:

Toiletry Essentials:

• Sun protection is crucial. Pack a high-SPF, reef-friendly sunscreen to protect yourself from the powerful tropical sun. Don't forget to reapply often, especially after swimming.
• Lip balm with SPF is a must-have to protect your lips from sunburn. Sun Bum offers tasty flavors like key lime with SPF 30.
• Bug spray or insect repellent is essential. Look for products containing picaridan, which is effective, non-greasy, and gentle on the skin.
• After-sun care is important to soothe and moisturize your skin. Consider bringing Eucerin Calming Body Wash, Cerave Moisturizing Lotion for Itch Relief, and aloe vera gel for sunburn relief.
• Basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and personal hygiene products. Remember that you can buy most of these in Belize if needed, but they may be more expensive.
• Feminine hygiene products, such as tampons or pads, are necessary if applicable.
• Any prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements you regularly take.
• Motion sickness medication or sea-sick pills if you're prone to motion sickness, as boat rides and snorkelling can trigger it.
• Pain relievers like Advil or similar painkillers, and antihistamines for bug bites and allergies.
• Eye care: If you wear contact lenses, bring extra pairs, contact lens solution, and a case. Glasses are also useful, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Personal care items such as hair products, styling tools (if needed), and cosmetics.

Extras:

• A lightweight, waterproof bag to protect your phone and other electronics from water damage, especially if you plan to engage in water activities.
• Reusable shopping bags or totes, such as the BIG Baggu, are great for packing, shopping, and even as a beach bag.
• A small, portable first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic cream, blister pads, and any other items you deem necessary.
• A lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season (June to November).
• A lightweight hat with a brim to protect your face and neck from the sun.
• Kleenex mini packs, wet wipes, or disposable towelettes for personal hygiene and removing makeup.
• A small Swiss Army knife can come in handy for various tasks.
• A lightweight, quick-drying beach towel. Microfiber towels are highly recommended and pack easily.
• A deck of cards, a book, or other indoor entertainment for rainy days.
• Snorkelling equipment, such as a mask, snorkel, and fins. However, consider renting if you don't want to carry your own.
• Diving equipment if you plan to scuba dive, but some gear can also be rented. Check with your diving company first.
• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated. Remember, it's not safe to drink tap water in Belize, so always carry your own water.
• A headlamp if you plan to explore caves or go cave tubing.
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
• Electronics and their chargers: phone, camera, Kindle, laptop, etc.
• Addresses or postcards to send to family and friends, or for emergency contacts.
• A small amount of local currency (Belizean dollars) for small purchases, tipping, and bus/taxi fares.

Sun protection

Clothing

The type of clothing you wear can provide significant protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. When packing for San Pedro, opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin. Long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and skirts made from lightweight, natural fabrics such as cotton will help keep you cool while providing a barrier against the sun. Dark-coloured clothing has a higher sun protection factor (SPF) than light-coloured clothing, so consider packing black or dark-coloured shirts and trousers. If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, consider wearing a wetsuit for maximum coverage.

Hats and Sunglasses

A wide-brimmed hat is essential for protecting your face and neck from the sun. Whether you're walking around San Pedro or spending time on the beach, a hat will provide necessary shade and reduce your risk of sunburn. Additionally, sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun's rays and reduce glare. Look for sunglasses that block at least 70% of UV rays, and ideally fit tightly to block UV rays from the sides, with large lenses that cover the entire eye area, including eyelids.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a crucial part of sun protection, especially in a tropical climate like Belize. Choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant, has a high sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and is reef-safe. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin, and reapply frequently, especially if you're swimming or sweating. Don't forget to protect your lips with chapstick that contains SPF.

Timing

The sun's rays are strongest between 10 am and 3 pm, so try to plan your outdoor activities for earlier or later in the day. If you must be outside during these peak hours, be sure to take extra sun protection measures, such as wearing a hat, seeking shade, and reapplying sunscreen frequently.

Hydration

In addition to sun protection, it's important to stay hydrated in the tropical climate of Belize. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration, and consider using moisturising lotion to prevent dry skin.

Insect repellent

In addition to insect repellent, there are several other measures you can take to protect yourself from insect bites. When venturing outdoors, it is advisable to expose as little skin as possible by wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts, particularly if you plan to go hiking or engage in nighttime activities. Mosquito coils, fans, screens, and mosquito nets can also provide additional protection from insects while indoors.

It is also important to be aware of the various insects you may encounter in San Pedro, Belize, and the potential risks associated with their bites. Mosquitoes, for instance, can carry diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, so it is crucial to protect yourself at all times. Sand flies, also known as sand fleas or no-see-ums, are tiny insects that breed in wet, sandy areas and can cause intense itching and red bumps if you scratch their bites. To prevent sand fly bites, applying a thick oil like baby oil or lavender oil can create a barrier on your skin that keeps them from biting.

Lastly, it is always a good idea to be prepared for the possibility of insect bites by packing anti-itch lotions, sprays, or oils, such as natural tea tree oil, which has been recommended by locals. Additionally, bringing along Benadryl or another antihistamine can help manage any allergic reactions or itching caused by bites.

Travel documents

When packing for your trip to San Pedro, Belize, don't forget to bring along the necessary travel documents. Here's a detailed list of what you'll need:

Passport:

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 30 days after your arrival in Belize, and make sure it has several months of validity remaining. It's also a good idea to have photocopies of your passport—both paper and digital copies. Keep these copies in a secure place, such as an encrypted folder or a cloud service.

Visa:

Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, and CARICOM countries, do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days. However, if you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa. Check the official Belize Immigration website or consult your nearest Belizean embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Return or Onward Ticket:

As part of the proof of intent to depart Belize, you will need to provide a return or onward ticket. This can be in the form of an airline ticket, a pre-purchased bus ticket, or proof of passage on a cruise ship.

Proof of Accommodation:

Have the address and contact information for your accommodation in Belize. This can include hotel reservations, an invitation from friends or family, or details of a tour organizer if applicable.

Proof of Financial Means:

You may be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds for your stay. This can be demonstrated through a credit card with a valid ID, bank statements, or other similar documentation.

Health and Vaccination Documents:

Check for any specific health requirements or advisories before your trip, especially in light of the ongoing global pandemic. Depending on the global health situation, you may need to provide proof of vaccination or negative PCR tests. Additionally, if you are travelling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required.

Notarized Letter of Authorization for Minors:

If you are travelling with minors under 18 years of age who are not your own children, a notarized letter of authorization from their parents will likely be necessary. Similarly, if a minor is travelling with only one parent, a notarized letter from the non-travelling parent is usually required.

Other Documents:

Don't forget to bring your driver's license or other identification cards, insurance cards, and emergency contact information. Again, it's a good idea to have photocopies of these documents, both paper and digital, stored securely.

Frequently asked questions