Belize's Garifuna Robes

Belize is a country of many cultures, and its clothing options reflect this. The first residents of Belize were the Mayans, but the country has been home to several other civilisations since then. The designs and colours of their garments pay tribute to the traditions of the area.

Belize is a very casual place when it comes to clothing. In fact, it's not uncommon to see people barefoot in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. The weather is hot and humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is best. If you're spending time in the jungle, long-sleeve lightweight shirts and nylon quick-dry pants will protect you from bugs and branches. If you're on the beach, you'll want to wear flip-flops and swimwear.

If you plan on dining at nice restaurants, you might want to bring one or two dress shirts or blouses. But generally, Belize is a t-shirts-and-shorts kind of place.

Lightweight cotton T-shirts

• They are breathable, allowing air circulation and keeping you cool.
• They are comfortable and soft, perfect for the hot Belizean weather.
• They can be dressed up or down, suitable for various activities in Belize.
• They are easy to pack as they are usually thin and lightweight.

What to Look for in Lightweight Cotton T-shirts:

• Look for T-shirts made from 100% cotton for the best breathability and comfort.
• Opt for loose-fitting or relaxed-fit T-shirts to allow for better air circulation and comfort in the hot climate.
• Consider T-shirts with moisture-wicking properties to help keep you dry and comfortable.
• Go for T-shirts with odour control features, especially if you plan to be active during your trip.

Recommended Lightweight Cotton T-shirts for Men:

• J.Crew Broken-in Short-Sleeve T-shirt—A lightweight, breathable option that comes in a variety of fits and sizes.
• Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt—A durable and affordable lightweight T-shirt made from Supima cotton, offering a relaxed fit.
• Men's Eversoft Cotton T-Shirts—Breathable and moisture-wicking with odour control, available in sizes S-4X.
• Men's Lightweight Pima Cotton Short Sleeve Athletic T-shirts—Quick-dry and loose-fit T-shirts, perfect for workouts or active days in Belize.

Recommended Lightweight Cotton T-shirts for Women:

• Women's Casual V-Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirts—Loose-fit cotton T-shirts, perfect for layering or wearing on their own.
• 3 Pack Womens V Neck T Shirts Short Sleeve Tees—Lightweight summer tops with pockets, a great option for Belize's hot weather.
• Women's Perfect-T Short Sleeve Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt—A soft and comfortable T-shirt, perfect for layering or wearing on its own.
• Women's Ultra-Soft Bamboo Viscose V-Neck T-Shirt—A trendy and casual short-sleeve T-shirt made from bamboo viscose.

Packing Tips for Belize:

• Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, including T-shirts, shorts, and skirts/pants.
• Avoid bringing nice or fancy clothing as the hot and humid weather may make you uncomfortable.
• Bring quick-dry clothing and swimwear for water activities and snorkelling.
• Don't forget insect repellent, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Bring a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella if you're visiting during the rainy season.
• Pack comfortable and sturdy shoes, such as hiking shoes/sandals, flip-flops, and water shoes for various activities.

Long-sleeve shirts

The dress code in Belize is very casual, with the climate being hot all year round. As such, long-sleeve shirts are not the most common item of clothing, but they can be worn for work or a night out. For example, in the professional sector, it is uncommon but not unheard of to see someone wearing a dress shirt and tie, or a dress and heels.

The dress code in Belize is dependent on the occasion and location. For example, in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, a beach town, it is normal to see people barefoot. However, in more formal settings, such as weddings, men wear tuxedos and women wear dresses.

The climate in Belize means that light, breathable fabrics are the most comfortable option. Linen is a good choice for long-sleeve shirts, as it is a lightweight fabric that is suitable for hot weather. Cotton is another good option, and it is often used to make blouses in Belize.

Dress shirts/blouses

When packing for Belize, it's important to consider the subtropical climate and the variety of conditions you may encounter. If you plan to spend time in the jungle or on the beach, it's recommended to bring long-sleeve lightweight shirts and quick-dry pants to protect yourself from bugs and branches. For women, a good option is a loose-fitting white tunic called a huipil, which is commonly worn by Mestizo women in Central America. It can be cut to a shorter length and worn as a shirt, or made longer to reach the knees. Huipils are often embroidered with vibrant colours and ribbons, making them a stylish and comfortable choice for hot and humid weather.

For footwear, sturdy closed shoes such as boots or trail shoes are ideal for jungle treks, while a rugged pair of sport/water sandals are essential for walking on rocky riverbeds and swimming in caves. If you'll be spending more time on beaches and islands, bring flip-flops or sandals. It's important to always wear footwear, even when on the beach, to protect your feet from wood splinters and rusted nails.

In terms of specific dress shirts/blouses, it's best to opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. For a more formal look, men can wear a button-down shirt and slacks, while women can choose from a variety of styles, including long gowns with lace frills, skirts with embroidered details, or blouses with lace or embroidery. Bright colours and floral patterns are common in Belize, so don't be afraid to pack some colourful outfits.

If you want to blend in with the locals, you can consider purchasing traditional Belizean clothing from local vendors. The Garifuna people, for example, traditionally wear yellow, black, and white as their primary colours. Men typically wear baseball caps, jeans, and shirts with a unique design called a "Dashiki", while women wear colourful long skirts, kerchiefs, and shell-trimmed dresses.

Cotton skirts/shorts

When packing for Belize, it is important to consider the subtropical climate and the variety of conditions. If your itinerary includes jungle treks or beach time, it is recommended that you bring lightweight, long-sleeve shirts and quick-dry pants or shorts to protect yourself from bugs and branches. For women, cotton skirts or shorts are a comfortable and practical option.

For a more traditional look, women in Belize often wear long skirts with patterns and cotton tops. Cotton is a breathable fabric that is well-suited to the warm and humid climate of the country. When packing for Belize, it is advisable to choose lightweight and quick-drying clothing, and to prioritise functionality over fashion.

If you are planning to spend time in the jungle, it is recommended that you bring sturdy shoes or boots, as well as a pair of rugged sport or water sandals. On the other hand, if you will be spending most of your time on beaches, flip-flops or sandals may be more suitable.

In general, the dress code in Belize is casual, and you will rarely need to dress up or wear high heels. A sarong or a lightweight cotton skirt can be worn as a skirt, a casual dress, a bathrobe, or even a beach towel, offering both versatility and comfort.

Beachwear/swimsuits

Belize is a country located in the northeastern part of Central America, and its climate is subtropical with an annual average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather in Belize can be extremely hot and humid, so it is important to wear light, breezy, and quick-drying clothing.

If you plan on spending time at the beach or snorkelling, which is a major activity in Belize, it is recommended to bring multiple swimsuits. It is also important to bring a rash guard to protect your skin from the sun while snorkelling. In addition, a dry bag can be useful for keeping your things away from water, dirt, sun, and other elements.

For men, a pair of sturdy trail shoes or boots are recommended for jungle treks, along with long sleeve lightweight shirts and nylon quick-dry pants. Pants that zip off into shorts can also be useful to pack light and have more variety. A rugged pair of sport/water sandals such as Keens, Columbias, or Tevas are also essential for walking on rocky riverbeds and swimming in caves.

For women, a sarong can be a versatile item to pack as it can be used as a skirt, a casual dress, a bathrobe, and a beach towel. Similar to men, women should also wear lightweight and quick-drying clothing, such as loose-fitting tank tops and shorts.

Overall, it is important to pack minimally and think multi-purpose when visiting Belize. The focus should be on functionality over fashion, especially when participating in outdoor activities.

Frequently asked questions