Cigarette Costs In Belize: A Traveler's Guide

The price of cigarettes in Belize varies depending on the brand and the quantity purchased. A pack of 20 Marlboro cigarettes costs around BZ$9 in Belize City, while a single cigarette can be bought for about BZ$0.25 at small grocery stores. Belize allows travellers from non-European Union countries to bring in 200 cigarettes duty-free upon arrival. Cigarettes in Belize are considered some of the most expensive in Central America.

Marlboro cigarettes cost BZ$9 per pack in Belize City

The price of a pack of Marlboro cigarettes in Belize City is BZ$9. This is significantly cheaper than in other cities around the world, such as Barrie, Nassau, Miami, and Abbotsford, where prices are over 100% more expensive. In fact, Belize is known for having some of the most expensive cigarettes in Central America. For example, a pack of 20 local cigarettes in Belize costs $6.50 USD, which is almost double the price of Marlboro cigarettes in Belize City.

It is worth noting that the cost of cigarettes in Belize can vary depending on the brand and the location. For instance, cigarette prices in Belize City may be different from those in Ambergris Caye. Additionally, it is common to see people buying single cigarettes for a fraction of the price of a full pack at small grocery stores.

When entering Belize, travelers from non-European Union countries are allowed to bring in a limited quantity of duty-free cigarettes. According to customs regulations, passengers can bring up to 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 250 grams of tobacco, and 50 cigars into the country without having to pay any additional taxes or duties.

In addition to the cost of cigarettes, it is important to be mindful of the smoking regulations in Belize. Smoking is prohibited in certain public places, including government buildings, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and public transportation. Violators may be subject to fines or other penalties.

Overall, while Marlboro cigarettes are relatively affordable in Belize City at BZ$9 per pack, it is important to be aware of the local regulations and restrictions on tobacco products when traveling to Belize.

Cigarettes are some of the most expensive in Central America

Cigarettes in Belize are some of the most expensive in Central America. A pack of 20 local cigarettes costs around $6.50 (£1.90/$3.25), which is significantly more than in other countries in the region.

For example, in Belize City, a package of Marlboro cigarettes costs BZ$9, while in Johannesburg, South Africa, the price is 38% cheaper. In Kolkata, India, it is 41% cheaper.

The high cost of cigarettes in Belize may be due in part to the country's economy being artificially linked to the USD. Additionally, as the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize may have higher costs for certain goods, especially on islands such as Caye Caulker.

It is worth noting that travellers to Belize are allowed to bring in up to 200 cigarettes duty-free when entering the country. However, it is important to declare these on the customs form before arrival and present the proper documentation to customs officers.

Single cigarettes can be bought for 25 cents at small grocery stores

If you are travelling to Belize, it is worth noting that you can bring up to 200 cigarettes into the country duty-free. This is a generous allowance, and it is important to declare these on your customs form when you arrive.

If you are looking to save money on cigarettes in Belize, it may be worth buying single cigarettes from small grocery stores, rather than purchasing a full pack. This option is especially useful if you are trying to cut down on your smoking, as it can help you smoke less throughout the day.

In addition, if you are a smoker travelling to Belize, it is important to be mindful of the local smoking laws and regulations. Make sure to dispose of your cigarettes safely and respectfully, and always ask before smoking in indoor spaces.

Cigarettes can be purchased at duty-free shops in the Belize International Airport

Cigarettes at the Belize International Airport

Duty-Free Shops

Duty & Tax Free Ltd. is a duty-free retailer with multiple stores in the airport. They have one duty-free retail store in the departures gate and two in the arrivals gate, as well as a Cuban Cigars & More store in the arrivals gate. They offer a range of duty-free products, including leading international brands of cigarettes.

Cigarette Prices

The price of a package of Marlboro cigarettes in Belize City is BZ$9. It is recommended to check whether the prices are in US or BZD when shopping at the airport, as it can vary.

Additional Information

If you are transferring flights, keep in mind that any cigarettes purchased will need to be placed in your checked luggage for the next leg of your journey. If you do not have checked luggage, be sure to buy smaller packs that comply with carry-on liquid restrictions.

Up to 200 cigarettes can be brought into Belize duty-free

Bringing Cigarettes into Belize

If you're travelling to Belize, you can bring up to 200 cigarettes into the country duty-free. This is in line with the country's allowance for other tobacco products, which includes 100 cigarillos, 250g of tobacco, and 50 cigars.

It's worth noting that bringing beer into Belize is illegal, but travellers are permitted to bring up to 1 litre of spirits with an alcohol content above 22%, 2 litres of dessert wine (with alcohol content no higher than 22%), and 2 litres of wine.

If you're travelling from the United States, you won't need a visa for the first 30 days of your stay in Belize. However, you must have a U.S. passport, an onward or return air ticket, and proof that you can financially support yourself during your stay. After 30 days, you'll need to obtain a visa for a cost of $25.00 USD, which can be extended for $50 USD per month.

When leaving Belize, all tourists are required to pay a $35.00 exit fee. It's also important to remember that bringing firearms, ammunition, and drones into Belize is prohibited and that prescription drugs must be kept in their original packaging.

Frequently asked questions