Belize In October: Dress For The Tropics

Belize is a laid-back country with a Caribbean feel, so the dress code is relaxed and casual. The weather in October falls within the rainy season, so expect rain and high humidity. It's also very hot, so lightweight, natural fabrics such as cotton, silk and linen are ideal.

For beachwear, you'll want t-shirts, camisoles, sarongs and shorts, and don't forget your swimwear. If you're planning on trekking, light wool is a good choice as it will help regulate your body temperature.

Evenings can be a little cooler, especially on the coast or in the jungle, so a sweater or wrap is a good idea. And don't forget your sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, as well as insect repellent.

If you're planning on visiting any Mayan sites, comfortable walking shoes are a must. And if you're heading to the beach, flat sandals or dive shoes for the coral are a good idea.

Clothing for outdoor activities

Belize is a great place for outdoor activities, with its mountainous jungles, reefs, ancient Mayan ruins and caves, and waterfalls.

For outdoor activities in Belize, it is important to wear lightweight, breathable clothing to combat the hot and humid weather. Here are some recommendations for clothing to pack for various outdoor activities:

• Caving: For caving in Belize, you will need a good pair of shoes that can get wet and provide traction on slippery surfaces. Closed-toe shoes, such as water shoes or light hiking shoes, are ideal. Wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, as you may be crawling or squeezing through tight spaces. A headlamp or flashlight is also essential, as it can get very dark inside the caves.
• Ziplining and Rappelling: For ziplining and rappelling, wear comfortable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Lightweight pants or shorts and a t-shirt or tank top are good options. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety.
• Exploring Mayan Ruins: When visiting Mayan ruins, such as Lamanai, Xunantunich, Caracol, and Altun Ha, wear lightweight and breathable clothing to stay cool in the tropical climate. A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are also recommended to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Snorkelling and Diving: For snorkelling and diving, you will need a swimsuit and a rash guard to protect your skin from the sun and sea creatures. Water shoes or dive boots can be helpful for walking on rocky shores or entering the water from a boat.
• Hiking: For hiking in Belize, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, such as shorts or lightweight pants and a t-shirt. A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are essential to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are recommended, especially if you plan to hike in the jungle.
• Other Activities: For other outdoor activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, or sailing, wear clothing that can get wet, such as swimwear or quick-drying shorts and a t-shirt. A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are also recommended.

Beachwear

Belize is hot and humid in October, with average daily highs of 85°F and lows of 75°F. The sea temperature is also warm, averaging 29°C, so you'll want to wear lightweight, breathable clothing and swimwear.

For beachwear, pack t-shirts, camisoles, shorts, and a sarong. If you plan to trek or hike, bring lightweight wool clothing to help regulate your body temperature and keep you cool. Don't forget your swimwear, and consider bringing a rash guard if you plan to snorkel, as the sun can be intense.

It's also a good idea to pack a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring the beaches and ancient Mayan sites.

Although the weather is warm, it's a good idea to bring a lightweight sweater or wrap for the cooler evenings, especially if you'll be spending time on the coast or in the jungle.

Remember to pack according to your planned activities and always be prepared for unexpected rain showers, as October is part of the rainy season in Belize.

Toiletries

When packing toiletries for a trip to Belize, it's important to consider the climate and any activities you plan to do. Here are some essential toiletries to bring:

• Sun protection: Sunscreen, sun hats, and sunglasses are a must in Belize due to the strong sun. Choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant and reef-friendly, as Belize is known for its reefs.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and sand flies are common, especially during the rainy season, so bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
• Basic medications: Pack any prescription medications, as well as basic medications such as stomach remedies, painkillers, and motion sickness pills.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, and antiperspirant are essential. You may also want to bring cosmetics and other personal care items such as body lotion and antibacterial wipes.
• Feminine hygiene products: If applicable, bring any feminine hygiene products you require, such as sanitary pads or tampons.
• First aid: Assemble a small traveller's first aid kit with items like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and any other essentials.
• Hand sanitiser: Carry hand sanitiser with you, especially when visiting places with inadequate washing facilities.
• Facial tissues: Pack some travel packs of tissues, as some public restrooms may lack toilet paper.
• Feminine hygiene: Sanitary products are not always readily available, so stock up on your preferred products.
• Hair care: The humidity in Belize can affect your hair, so bring any necessary hair care products, such as shampoo, conditioner, and styling products.
• Lip balm: Don't forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun and keep them moisturised.

Remember to pack these items in a hanging toiletry bag to stay organised and save counter space in your accommodations. It's also a good idea to bring any other personal care items that will make your trip more comfortable, such as eye drops or contact lens solution if you wear contacts.

Electronics

October is the rainy season in Belize, so you'll want to make sure your electronics are protected from the elements. Here are some tips and suggestions for electronics to bring on your trip:

• Keep your electronics safe and dry in a waterproof dry bag. Earth Pack ($32) and Sea to Summit (starting at $9) both offer good options.
• Bring a portable power bank to keep your devices charged on the go.
• Don't forget the chargers for all your electronics!
• Bring extra SD cards for your camera to capture all the beautiful sights. A 128GB SD card should be plenty of space.
• If you're bringing a camera, consider investing in a waterproof model or a waterproof case to protect it from the rain. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is a great option, as it's dust-proof, sand-proof, shock-proof, and water-resistant.
• For adventurous shots, bring a GoPro and accessories like a floating hand grip, chest mount, and head strap.
• If you plan on doing a lot of hiking or other outdoor activities, a waterproof or ruggedised phone case can provide extra protection for your device.
• If you're bringing a laptop, consider a lightweight travel model to save space and weight in your luggage.
• If you're interested in stargazing or astrophotography, October is a great time to spot the Milky Way in Belize. Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod to capture the night sky.
• For birdwatching, bring a pair of compact binoculars to spot exotic birds like toucans, macaws, egrets, and herons.
• If you're bringing a drone, be sure to familiarise yourself with local laws and regulations regarding their use.

Footwear

Belize is a beach and jungle destination, so your choice of footwear will depend on the activities you plan to do. The weather in October falls within the rainy season, so you should be prepared for wet conditions. Here is a list of footwear options to consider:

Water Shoes

Water shoes are essential if you plan to participate in water activities such as cave tours, beach outings, or swimming. Look for water shoes made of quick-drying materials with sturdy soles and good grip. They should also fit securely on your feet in various wet situations. Some recommended brands for water shoes include Merrell and Keen.

Hiking Shoes or Trail Runners

If you intend to explore jungle trails, ancient Maya ruins, or climb waterfalls, a reliable pair of hiking shoes or trail runners is crucial. Opt for shoes that provide ample support, breathability, and good traction on uneven terrain. Waterproof options are ideal if you plan to explore during the rainy season. Salomon is a trusted brand for performance-driven hiking footwear.

Flip-Flops or Sandals

For more relaxed days at the beach, leisurely walks, or casual dinners, flip-flops or comfortable sandals are perfect. Choose a durable pair that can handle getting wet if you plan to spend time near the water. Chaco is a popular brand for supportive sandals with customizable straps, ideal for long walks.

• Break in your new hiking or water shoes before your trip to avoid blisters.
• Pack versatile shoes that can serve multiple purposes to save luggage space.
• During the rainy season, opt for waterproof hiking shoes and sandals.
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent to your feet when wearing open-toed shoes or sandals.
• Embrace the local vibe and go barefoot on sandy beaches or even some casual restaurants.

Frequently asked questions