Belize Packing List: 10 Days

Belize is a tropical country with a hot and humid climate, so it's important to pack light and breathable clothing. The weather is generally warm and sunny, but it can get cooler at night, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater. Here is a list of essentials to pack for 10 days in Belize:

- Light and breathable clothing, such as t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, skirts, and dresses.

- Sun protection items like sunglasses, a sun hat or baseball cap, and sunscreen.

- Insect repellent—mosquitoes are common in Belize, especially during the rainy season.

- Water bottle with a built-in filter—tap water is not safe to drink in Belize.

- Raincoat or lightweight waterproof jacket.

- Sturdy walking shoes and hiking boots if you plan to visit the jungle.

- Beachwear and swimwear.

- Toiletries, including shampoo, body soap, deodorant, and toothpaste.

- Basic medications such as painkillers, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills.

- Travel documents like your passport, identification, and travel insurance.

- Electronics and their chargers, such as a phone, camera, and portable charger.

- A small amount of cash in USD or BZD, as well as credit cards.

Clothing

Belize is hot and humid, so lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. The country is very casual, so you won't need any formal wear. Here is a suggested packing list for 10 days in Belize:

• 3-5 lightweight summer dresses, preferably above mid-thigh.
• 5+ t-shirts or tank tops.
• 1-2 sarongs, which can be used as beach cover-ups or lightweight beach towels.
• 1 pair of jeans, for cooler days or evenings.
• 2 pairs of shorts, including one pair of loose-fitting linen shorts.
• 1-2 skirts, including a midi-length skirt.
• 1 sun hat.
• 1 pair of sneakers, especially if you plan to visit the jungle.
• 1 pair of sandals, such as Birkenstocks.
• 1 rain jacket.
• 1 cardigan or light sweater.
• 1-2 bras.
• 7+ pairs of underwear.
• 2 bathing suits.
• 1 pair of long pants for hiking.
• 1 long-sleeve shirt for sun protection and hiking.
• 1-2 dress shirts or blouses for dining at nice restaurants.
• Shorts or skirts, preferably cotton.
• Beachwear/swimsuits.

It's worth noting that Belize has two seasons: a wet season from June to December, and a dry season from January to May. If you're travelling in the wet season, be sure to pack a raincoat or lightweight waterproof jacket. Conversely, if you're travelling in the dry season, be prepared for hot temperatures by packing extra lightweight clothing.

Toiletries

Belize is a tropical country with a hot and humid climate, so you'll need to pack toiletries that will help you stay fresh and comfortable in the heat. Here is a detailed list of recommended toiletries to pack for your 10-day trip to Belize:

Sun Protection

• Sunscreen: Bring reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreen to protect your skin from the intense UV rays.
• Lip balm with SPF: Don't forget to protect your lips as well.
• Sun hat or baseball cap: A wide-brimmed hat will provide extra protection for your face.
• Sunglasses: Choose a pair that offers adequate UV protection.
• Rash guard: If you plan to snorkel, consider bringing a rash guard to protect your skin from the sun.

Insect Repellent

• Mosquito repellent: Due to the tropical climate, mosquitoes are prevalent, especially during the rainy season. Bring enough mosquito repellent to last your entire trip, as it can be expensive in Belize.
• Insect repellent wipes: These are handy for reapplying on the go.
• Antibacterial wipes: These will come in handy when you need to freshen up, especially after outdoor activities.

Personal Care

• Hand sanitizer: Carry a small bottle with you, as some public restrooms may not have adequate soap and towels/driers.
• Kleenex packets: Public restrooms may not always have toilet paper, so it's good to have portable tissue packs.
• Shampoo and conditioner: Consider bringing solid shampoo and conditioner bars to save space and reduce plastic waste.
• Dry shampoo: If you're trying to make your hair washes last, dry shampoo will be a lifesaver.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Deodorant: Stay fresh in the tropical heat with a travel-size deodorant.
• Feminine hygiene products: Pack these according to your personal needs.
• Hair ties and bobby pins: Keep your hair off your face and neck to stay cool.
• Makeup: If you plan to wear makeup, bring lightweight and sweat-proof products.

Skincare

• Face sunscreen: If your skin is sensitive, opt for a gentle formula designed for facial skin.
• Body lotion: The tropical climate can be drying, so a lightweight, non-greasy lotion can help keep your skin hydrated.
• Aloe vera gel: In case you get sunburnt, aloe vera gel will provide soothing relief.

Medications

• Basic medications: Pack painkillers like ibuprofen, stomach medicine (e.g., Pepto-Bismol), motion sickness pills, and any other medications you regularly take.
• Prescription medications: Ensure you have enough supply for your entire trip, and bring a copy of your prescription.

Other Toiletries

• Beach towels or sarongs: These can double as beach accessories and lightweight cover-ups.
• Quick-drying travel towel: If you're staying in hostels or plan to go hiking/camping, a quick-drying travel towel is a must.
• First-aid kit: A small, travel-sized first-aid kit will come in handy for minor injuries or accidents.

Sun protection

• Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. For very fair skin, consider using a sunscreen with an SPF of 40-60. Look for "non-nano" or "mineral-based" sunscreens that don't contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, 4-MBC, or butylparaben, as these chemicals can damage ocean reefs.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun. A baseball cap will also work, but it offers less protection.
• Wear good quality sunglasses that block at least 98% of UVA and UVB rays. Polarized sunglasses cut down glare but do not block UV rays.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants when possible. Lightweight, tightly-woven, loose-fitting clothing will help protect your skin from the sun while keeping you cool. Darker colours offer more protection than light colours.
• Consider wearing a wetsuit when swimming or scuba diving for added protection.
• Stay out of the sun between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun is at its strongest.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming.
• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
• Use moisturising lotion daily to prevent dry skin, especially if you will be participating in activities such as sea kayaking.
• Wear gloves when kayaking to protect your hands from the sun and water, as dry skin is more susceptible to blisters.

Electronics

Camera and Photography Gear

Belize is a beautiful country, and you'll want to capture your experiences. A good camera is essential, and if you're an avid photographer, consider investing in a mirrorless or DSLR camera like the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Don't forget extra SD cards and a portable hard drive to store all your photos and videos. A lightweight tripod can also be handy for capturing those perfect shots.

Phone and Accessories

Your phone is likely to be your primary device for communication, navigation, and even photography. Ensure it's unlocked so you can use a local SIM card to save on roaming charges. Set up a Google Voice number to forward calls to your phone, and download offline maps of Belize. Additionally, bring extra charging cables, a portable power bank, and a universal power adapter to keep your phone charged on the go.

Entertainment Devices

If you plan to relax with some movies or shows during downtime, consider bringing a tablet or laptop. A streaming device like an Amazon Fire TV Stick can also be useful, but keep in mind that some apps may not work overseas.

Other Essentials

Don't forget the small but crucial items like headphones for your flight, a portable power strip to charge multiple devices, and a waterproof case for your phone if you plan to snorkel or engage in water activities.

Remember to pack your electronics in your carry-on, keep them secure, and check any specific travel restrictions for your destination.

Travel documents

When travelling to Belize, it is important to carry the correct travel documents with you. Here is a detailed list of the essential documents you will need:

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after the date of your arrival in Belize. It is recommended to have at least six months' validity on your passport when travelling overseas, so ensure your passport is valid for this duration. Make photocopies of your passport (both paper and digital) and keep them safe.
• Visa: Citizens of the United States and its territories, Canada, the United Kingdom and its territories, European Union countries, and Caribbean and Central American countries do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days. If you are visiting from another country, check the visa requirements before your trip.
• Proof of onward travel: You will need to provide proof of a return or onward ticket when entering Belize.
• Sufficient funds: Ensure you have enough money to cover the costs of your stay in Belize. You may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds when entering the country.
• Travel insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
• Prescription medications: Bring any prescription medications you require, along with a note from your doctor to avoid any issues.
• Driver's licence: If you plan to drive in Belize, bring your valid driver's licence. An international driving permit is also recommended.
• Vaccination card: Although Belize does not require specific immunizations for visitors, it is advised to be up to date with your routine vaccinations and recommended travel vaccines.
• Travel health documents: Depending on your travel plans and health condition, consider bringing other relevant health documents, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test result or a recovery certificate.
• Travel itinerary and accommodation details: Keep a copy of your travel plans and accommodation bookings for reference.
• Other identification: Bring additional identification documents, such as an identification card or driver's licence.
• Credit cards: Major credit cards are widely accepted in Belize, but it is still recommended to carry some local currency (Belizean Dollar, BZD) with you.
• Photocopies of important documents: In addition to your passport, make photocopies of other essential documents, such as your driver's licence, insurance card, and travel itinerary. Leave one set of copies with a trusted contact and keep the other set with you during your trip.

It is also recommended to register with your country's embassy or consulate in Belize. This will help them contact you in case of an emergency and provide you with important updates during your stay.

Frequently asked questions