San Pedro Packing List

San Pedro, Belize is a tropical paradise, and you'll want to pack accordingly. The weather is hot, and the activities are largely based around the beach and water sports, so bring lightweight, breathable clothing, and don't forget your swimwear!

If you plan on hiking in the jungle, be sure to bring long pants and sleeves, as well as sturdy shoes or boots. It can get cooler at night, so a light jacket or raincoat is also recommended. Don't forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent, and consider bringing a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

If you're staying in a hostel, you'll need a few extra things, like flip-flops for the shower, a towel, and a lock for your belongings.

As for electronics, bring whatever you think you'll need, but don't forget your camera to capture those memorable shots! You may also want to bring a waterproof bag or case to protect your devices from the elements.

Lastly, don't forget your passport and other important documents, as well as any necessary visas or vaccinations.

Clothing: lightweight, breathable items, hats, sunglasses, and hiking shoes

When packing for San Pedro, Belize, it's important to consider the local climate and activities you plan to do. Here are some recommendations for clothing items to bring:

Lightweight and Breathable Items

Bring lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the tropical climate of San Pedro, Belize. Cotton and linen fabrics are ideal as they allow your skin to breathe and keep you cool. Pack regular lightweight cotton t-shirts, shorts or skirts, and beachwear/swimsuits. A sarong is a versatile and handy item for women. You may also want to bring one or two dress shirts or blouses for dining at nice restaurants.

Hats and Sunglasses

Protect yourself from the sun with a sun hat or baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses. The sun can be intense, especially if you plan to spend time at the beach or outdoors, so don't forget to pack these essential items.

Hiking Shoes

If you plan to explore the jungle or go on hikes, a pair of sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots is a must. Waterproof hiking boots are ideal if you expect to encounter wet conditions.

Other Recommendations

While not clothing, don't forget to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small traveller's first aid kit. Belize has seasons, so check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. It's generally best to dress casually and comfortably, as you'll likely be doing a lot of hiking and beach activities.

Toiletries: sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and other essentials

San Pedro, Belize is a great place to visit, with plenty of outdoor activities and a vibrant culture. When packing toiletries for your trip, there are some essentials you should definitely bring along.

First and foremost, sunscreen is a must. The tropical climate in Belize can be intense, so it's important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant and reef-friendly, as you'll likely be spending time in the ocean or by the pool. It is also a good idea to bring sun protection in the form of clothing, such as a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, a sun hat, or a baseball cap.

Another essential item to pack is insect repellent. If you plan on hiking through the jungle or spending time outdoors, you'll want to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects. Be sure to bring enough repellent for your entire trip, as you'll need to apply it liberally and frequently.

In addition to these essentials, there are other toiletries you may want to consider bringing. These include:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and body soap (unless you plan to use the provided amenities at your accommodation)
• Deodorant and antiperspirant
• Beach towels (although these can also be purchased in Belize if needed)
• Cosmetics and other personal care items, such as body lotion and antibacterial wipes
• Prescription glasses or contact lenses, along with cleaning solutions
• Any important medications or vitamins you regularly take

It's also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit, which can be useful in case of minor injuries or accidents. This might include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, insect sting relief pads, and any other items you feel are necessary.

Lastly, don't forget to bring any other personal care items that are specific to your needs and preferences. This could include items like feminine hygiene products, shaving supplies, or specialty skincare products.

By packing these essential toiletries, you'll be well-prepared for your trip to San Pedro, Belize, and can focus on enjoying your vacation.

Travel documents: passport, driver's license, and travel insurance

When travelling to San Pedro, Belize, it is important to carry the correct travel documents. Here is some information on the documents you will need:

Passport

You must have a valid passport to enter Belize, with at least six months before its expiration date. Your passport should also be valid for the length of your stay. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Belize, but you must have proof of an onward or return ticket. Visitors are usually granted a one-month stay, after which an extension can be applied for. It is recommended to have photocopies of your passport (both paper and digital) and to keep your passport secure at all times.

Driver's License

You can drive in Belize with a valid Canadian or U.S. driver's license for up to three months. An international driving permit is also recommended. If you are driving in Belize, it is important to familiarize yourself with your route before starting your trip and to always keep your windows and doors locked.

Travel Insurance

Although not legally required, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance before travelling to Belize. This will help protect you in case of unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost/stolen items. Basic travel insurance plans are available, as well as more comprehensive plans that include add-ons such as gear theft protection, rental car protection, and medical emergency insurance. It is important to research what your existing insurance covers and to choose a travel insurance plan that fills in any gaps.

Electronics: phone, camera, and chargers

When packing your electronics for a trip to San Pedro, Belize, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the types of power plugs and sockets used in Belize are Type A, Type B, and Type G. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin, and Type G plugs have three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. If you're coming from the US, you won't need a power plug adapter for Type A sockets, as these are the same as in the US. However, you will need an adapter for Type G sockets, and possibly for Type B sockets as well, as these may not always be available locally. It's a good idea to pack a 3-to-2 prong adapter to fit your Type B plugs into Type A sockets. Alternatively, you can buy a power plug adapter before your trip or once you arrive in Belize.

In addition to a power plug adapter, you may also need a voltage converter for your electronic devices. Belize has two voltage levels: 110V and 220V. If you're coming from the US, your electronic devices typically operate at 120V. Before using your devices in Belize, check the local voltage to make sure it's compatible with your devices. If the local voltage is 220V, you will need a voltage converter to avoid damaging your devices. Most personal electronics like mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and cameras are dual voltage and won't require a converter. However, high-powered electronics like blow dryers, curling irons, rotating fans, and boilers may need a converter. Check the label on your device; if it states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz', it will work in Belize without a converter.

To keep your phone charged on the go, consider investing in a portable charger. This can be a lifesaver when you're out exploring San Pedro or hiking through the rainforest. A portable charger that's small and lightweight, such as a lipstick-sized charger, can easily fit in your pocket or on your keychain. Don't forget to bring charging cables for your devices, and make sure to pack your chargers too!

Another electronic device to consider bringing is a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Belize is known for cybercrime, and you don't want to risk your personal information being hacked when connecting to public Wi-Fi. A VPN will allow you to safely access the internet and protect your data.

Lastly, don't forget to bring any other essential electronics and their corresponding chargers. This may include items like headphones, a Kindle or tablet, or any other devices you typically use when travelling.

Miscellaneous: cash, credit cards, and a water bottle

When travelling to San Pedro, Belize, it is important to bring a mix of cash, credit cards, and a water bottle.

Cash

Belize's official currency is the Belize dollar (BZ$), which is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of BZ$2 to US$1. US dollars are widely accepted across the country, especially in tourist destinations, but you will often receive change in Belize dollars. It is recommended to bring smaller US dollar bills ($1, $5, $10, and $20) as larger bills may be hard to cash in smaller villages or shops. It is also important to ensure that your bills are in good condition, as banks in Belize may refuse to accept marked or torn bills.

ATMs can be found in major tourist towns and urban centres, including San Pedro, but they may charge a fee for withdrawals. Additionally, your card may work at some banks but not others, so it is always good to have a backup plan for payment. It is recommended to bring more than one card and to notify your credit card company of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your charges being refused.

Credit Cards

Most major credit cards are accepted in Belize, although Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express, especially by smaller businesses. Credit cards are a safe and convenient way to carry money, providing a record of your expenses and generally offering good exchange rates. However, many businesses in Belize, especially local shops and restaurants, prefer cash payments, so it is important to have a mix of both.

Water Bottle

It is not safe to drink tap water in Belize, so it is recommended to bring a water bottle that you can fill with purified water purchased from stores or hotels.

In addition to the above, it is always a good idea to bring a valid passport, identification, and other essential documents when travelling to a foreign country.

Frequently asked questions