Belize In September: Packing Essentials

Belize is a beach and jungle destination, so your packing list for September will be activity-oriented. The weather will be hot and humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Here's what to pack for your trip to Belize in September:

- Water shoes or water-resistant hiking shoes

- Rash guard for water activities

- Reef-safe sunscreen

- Lightweight waterproof hooded rain jacket or rain poncho

- Packable sun hat

- Tank tops and t-shirts

- Lightweight shorts and skirts

- Long-sleeve shirt for sun protection and jungle hiking

- Dress shirts or blouses for dining at nice restaurants

- Long pants for the jungle

- Sweater or hoodie for cooler evenings

- Hiking boots if visiting the jungle

- Sturdy walking shoes

- Basic toiletries

- Insect repellent

- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, etc.)

- Quick-dry travel towel

- Water bottle with a built-in filter

- Daypack for daily activities

- Dry bag to protect belongings from water

- Camera gear

- Motion sickness medication or patches

- Portable charger

- Travel insurance

Clothing essentials

Belize is a beach and jungle destination, so most of your packing will be activity-oriented, with lightweight clothes and swimsuits. The weather in Belize in September is hot and humid, so it is recommended to wear loose, light, breathable clothing. Here is a clothing essentials packing list for Belize in September:

• T-shirts, tank tops, and other lightweight tops: Pack at least 4-5 tank tops and t-shirts. Go for loose-fitting tops and lightweight, breathable fabrics.
• Shorts: Pack at least 2 pairs of shorts. Lightweight cotton or denim shorts are a good option.
• Skirts: 1-2 skirts are recommended. A black skirt and a printed skirt will give you flexibility.
• Pants: Bring one pair of jeans for cooler nights or for blending in with the locals. Also, pack hiking pants for jungle hikes or horseback riding.
• Dresses: 3-5 lightweight, summer dresses that are preferably past mid-thigh. Maxi dresses are also a good option.
• Sun hat: A sun hat will provide extra protection from the sun and keep the rays off your face.
• Sneakers: If you plan to visit the jungle or do any hiking, a pair of comfortable sneakers is recommended.
• Sandals: Sandals are the ideal footwear for Belize. Flip-flops are also a good option for the beach.
• Rain jacket: A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket will come in handy during the rainy season.
• Sweater or cardigan: For cooler nights or air-conditioned spaces, pack a sweater or cardigan.
• Underwear: Pack at least 7 pairs of underwear.
• Swimsuits: Bring at least 2 swimsuits so you don't have to put on a wet swimsuit.
• Socks: Bring a few pairs of socks for hiking and other activities.
• Sleepwear: Pack something comfortable to sleep in.

It is recommended to only pack the essentials and save space in your luggage. Belize will have stores where you can buy things that you may need. It is also a good idea to wear clothes that can be layered to adjust to the varying temperatures in Belize.

Toiletries and medications

Belize is a beach and jungle destination, so most of your packing will be activity-oriented, with lightweight clothes and swimsuits. Belize is increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism practices and prefers that visitors bring non-toxic toiletries and personal items that have a minimal impact on the environment.

• Basic medication: Pepto-Bismol for standard stomach troubles, Imodium, some sort of painkiller like ibuprofen for headaches and minor aches, and some sort of motion sickness medication.
• Mosquito repellent: Due to its tropical climate, Belize has tons of mosquitoes, especially in the rainy season and just after it. Mosquito repellent is very expensive in Belize and you can’t always get the brands you like there.
• Water bottle with a built-in filter: You can’t drink tap water anywhere in Belize, so try to bring something to eliminate your plastic bottle usage.
• Sunscreen: Belize is sunny almost all year round, and even if you have a rare cloudy day, the UV will still be really high.
• Reef-safe sunscreen: Belize is known for its reefs, and once you see them, you’ll know why – they’re gorgeous! Reefs are delicate ecosystems though, which is very important to remember when you’re selecting sunscreen and other lotions and oils.
• Lip balm with SPF: Don't forget to protect your lips from the sun!
• Hand sanitiser: Many public restrooms don’t have adequate soap and towels/driers, so having some hand sanitiser is always good.
• Kleenex packets: Like above, public restrooms may be lacking in the toilet paper department, so having some Kleenex in a portable sleeve is always good to have.
• Solid shampoo: Life-changing. Just trust me.
• Travel medications: Any prescription medication you take, plus a note from your doctor to avoid any mix-ups.
• Eye drops: They're expensive in Belize!
• Hydrocortisone cream: To stop the itching if you do get bug bites.
• Anti-malaria tablets: Malaria is present in the country, but it is very low risk.
• First aid kit: Plasters, antiseptic cream, gauze, tweezers, scissors, etc.
• Feminine hygiene products: Tampons and pads can be hard to find in Belize.

What NOT to Bring

Valuables: It’s better to be safe than sorry, so pack only the essentials and keep valuables at home. This includes jewellery, electronics, and any keepsakes that you wouldn’t want to lose or have stolen.

Sun protection

Belize is known for its balmy temperatures and ample sunshine, so sun protection is a must when packing for your trip. Here are some essential items to include for sun protection during your September visit:

Clothing

• Loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing: Opt for clothes made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.
• Long-sleeved shirts: Consider packing long-sleeved shirts or blouses, especially for hiking in the jungle. These provide additional protection from the sun while also offering some defence against insects.
• Sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face and neck from the sun. Alternatively, a baseball cap can shield your eyes and face.
• Sunglasses: Invest in a good pair of UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun's harmful rays.
• Swimwear with sun protection: Consider swimwear that offers some level of sun protection, such as rash guards or swim shirts with built-in UV protection.

Sunscreen and Skincare

• Sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and consider a higher SPF if you have very fair skin. Look for waterproof and reef-friendly options, especially if you plan to spend time in the water. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Lip balm with SPF: Don't forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that has SPF 30 or higher.
• Moisturiser: The sun and salt water can dry out your skin, so be sure to pack a moisturising lotion to keep your skin hydrated.
• Aloe vera gel: In case you do get sunburnt, having some aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion will help soothe and moisturise your skin.

Other Sun Protection Items

• Parasol or portable sunshade: Consider bringing a small parasol or portable sunshade that you can easily carry with you. This can provide shade when you're at the beach or exploring outdoor attractions.
• Portable fan: A small, battery-operated fan can provide some relief from the heat and help you stay cool.
• Water bottle: It's crucial to stay hydrated in the Belize sun, so carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times.
• Snorkelling gear: If you plan to go snorkelling, bring your own snorkel gear to ensure a proper fit and avoid sharing communal equipment.

Electronics

• Smartphone and charger
• Portable power banks
• Adapter and converter
• Tablet
• Laptop
• IPad
• E-reader
• Headphones
• Camera and GoPro/video camera, memory card, and chargers
• Electrical converters and adapters
• Electronics organiser
• Portable hard drive
• Streaming device
• USB thumb drive
• Professional camera
• Drone
• Portable door lock or door alarm

Travel documents

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 30 days after your arrival date. It is also recommended to have a paper and digital copy of your passport.
• Visas: Visas are not required for stays of 30 days or less for citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, the EU, and Caribbean and Central American countries. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a visa from the Immigration Department.
• Travel with children: Children under 18 must have a valid passport and a letter of parental consent. If travelling with one parent, a notarized letter of authority from the other parent is required.
• Travel with pets: An import permit from the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), a recent veterinary certificate, and a valid rabies certificate are required.
• Prescription medication: Bring any prescription medication you may need, in their original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription.
• Other documents: It is recommended to carry photocopies of your identification card (driver's license) and insurance card.

Frequently asked questions