Belize is the best of many worlds – Central American culture, Mayan history, luscious rainforests, delicious food, and relaxing turquoise beaches.
English is an official language and with only a short flight from the U.S., this paradise is basically in America’s backyard, perfectly harmonizing beauty and adventure.
I’ve put together a list of the top items I needed on my trip, including what to wear in Belize, what NOT to bring, and important FAQs.
Belize is home to world-class water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming – so you’re going to need a reliable towel. Packing a normal towel will take up too much room, they take a long time to dry, and let’s not forget how bad they smell when you forget to hang them to dry. A travel towel on the other hand is super compact, dries 10x quicker than cotton, and does a great job at repelling odors and sand.
In many towns and areas of Belize, the tap water is considered questionable or unsafe to drink. It’s incredibly important to stay hydrated in such a warm climate and while engaging in activities in the sun, so having a water bottle with a built-in filter is a smart idea. It will protect your family by filtering out harmful bacteria, viruses, microplastics, chlorine, sediment, and more. You don’t want to gamble with pathogens like hepatitis and E. Coli!
Until recently, I thought VPNs were just a way to increase or free one’s own personal access to the internet. They certainly are, but it turns out they do a lot more than that, especially where security is concerned.
A good VPN like NordVPN provides an additional level of security that could mean the difference between safely going online at cafes, airports, BnBs, etc., and having your private information like credit card numbers and passwords hacked or stolen. It’s a scary prospect, but this inexpensive and easy-to-use service can keep you safe with one touch of a button.
When you’re traveling, you want your belongings to be organized, easily accessible, and compact. These fantastic packing cubes save a lot of trouble by accomplishing all those goals. They’re easy to move from one bag to another, each comes with a set of multiple sizes, and they’re easily washable. You can label each cube (tops, pants, essentials, etc.) so you never have to rummage through your suitcase again! Anything that makes your travel life easier is worth having, and these certainly do.
Our phones are our links to the world, and if you’re anything like me, you carry yours everywhere. Since Belize is a place filled with adventure and water sports, you’ll want to keep your phone protected. This case shields your phone from dust and dirt, scratches, and water damage, all for an affordable price tag. And it still allows for photo and video use, even underwater.
Misfortune while traveling is always a possibility and we believe it’s essential to always travel internationally with travel insurance. If you have a medical emergency and need to get home fast or to recoup your losses after a theft or loss of luggage, travel insurance plans can help with these and other similar expenses.
We recommend checking out Faye, which makes it effortless to find the best insurance plan for your unique trip. These plans are typically very inexpensive compared to your total trip cost and will give you comfort in knowing you’re protected should something happen.
In addition to the waterproof phone case, I also highly recommend bringing a flotation strap to help keep your device safe and avoid it sinking should it fall into the water! This is a must if you bring your phone on a boat, paddleboard, while snorkeling, etc.
With travel often comes stomach upset, whether caused by the traveling itself or by eating something that doesn’t agree with you. Either way, activated charcoal is an absolute must-have. The charcoal absorbs toxins in your system and helps you enjoy the many fun parts of traveling while speeding up the tummy ‘reset period’ as your stomach adjusts to the local cuisine.
It’s not wise to leave valuables in your room, and you may need to keep your passport and small amounts of cash on hand while exploring Belize. It can be hard to keep one’s wallet completely safe when doing so many activities, so it’s better to use something like this anti-theft neck wallet to keep your personal items out of sight. This one is made with RFID-Blocking material to prevent e-thieves from stealing your financial information from afar.
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Some of the best things to do in Belize include snorkeling in Caye Caulker (the second-largest barrier reef in the world), trekking through the Mayan temples, canoeing through the ancient caves, and floating down the river on Safari.
There are awesome day trips from San Ignacio and Belize City, and our kids’ favorite excursion was visiting one of the oldest marine reserves in the country, Hol Chan.
This portable, lipstick-sized charger is one of my favorite travel accessories because it makes keeping my phone charged so much simpler. You can even continue your activities because it powers devices on-the-go with a simple USB output (stored in a purse or backpack). It’s saved us on more than one occasion when we needed to call a taxi or look up our hotel address and our phone’s battery was ready to call it quits.
Mosquitos need fresh water to breed, so when the rains come in Belize – the mosquitos and sand flies follow! While the risk of malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses is low, precaution is still needed. We use these insect-repelling wristbands that are deet-free and non-toxic. They’re safer for our kids and just feel more natural to us than respraying toxic chemicals all day.
Since most of your belongings will stay back in your room while you’re out during the day, you’ll want to bring a small to mid-sized daypack with which to hold your gear and water. Something durable and comfortable but not heavy is key – this one is highly rated for its comfort and ease of use!
When traveling internationally, it’s always a good idea to secure your luggage with luggage locks. You never know who’s coming in contact with your bags, especially when they’re checked. I like this set because they are TSA-approved and are made by a reputable travel accessories brand so I know they’ll hold up. They’re also 10x harder to crack than a typical 3-digit lock.
Believe it or not, toilets are not quite as modern (or even as easy to find) in many parts of Belize. With this in mind, I recommend bringing this female urination device to help ensure that when you have to go, you can. It is an extremely handy item to have with you in so many world regions and is a hygienic way to pee outside without having to squat awkwardly.
Belize’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid. For jungle hikes and afternoon excursions, be sure to have a cooling towel handy. As soon as you add water, the towel becomes 20-30 degrees cooler than the outside air temperature for up to an hour. Simply re-wet the towels for more sweet, cooling relief! It will extend your days by ensuring you can spend more time outside comfortably.
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. This reef-safe sunscreen allows you to protect yourself from the harsher Belizean sun while still respecting and protecting the aquatic environment and its inhabitants – no toxic chemicals harming the coral and fish means a healthier reef for everyone to enjoy.
If you plan on visiting Belize in the summer or fall, then you should expect some rain due to the wet season. Usually, they are short, predictable rain showers, but it’s always helpful to be prepared. Bringing a travel umbrella will make braving the rain easy so you can stay dry and keep exploring!
Belize is all about the water, and even when you’re not in the water you’ll want to be sure your camera isn’t susceptible to water damage. Capturing those unBelizeable memories is easy when you have a handy little camera like this one. It’s waterproof, sturdy, and lightweight, which means it’ll go wherever you do so that you don’t have to miss a moment. It’s also a more accessible and less expensive option for those who don’t want to spend more on a GoPro or a DSLR camera.
Belize is a balmy, beachy paradise. While glistening sun and long nature walks are good for the soul, they can also result in some serious body odor! Travel deodorant wipes will become your new best friend because they come in single-use packets (easy to throw in your purse or backpack) and naturally clean the skin using prebiotics to reduce smells. It’s like a refreshing mini-cleanse spa moment, perfect for long days in the sun.
Between trekking Mayan ruins like Xunantunich and getting around the bustling cities, a network of caves, and numerous national parks – many of the activities in Belize involve walking or hiking. It’s important to bring a reliable pair of shoes that will provide support and not hurt your feet. These are even water-resistant in case your jungle hike is a little muddy or rainy.
Belize is diverse in landscapes. The coastline is flat and swampy with many lagoons, while the inland marks the grassland with mangroves, mountains, and rainforests. We bring these water-resistant shoe bags to add a much-needed barrier between our dirty shoes and clean items. The last thing you need on excursion days is to be stuck with shoes covered in sand, water, mud, and city-street-funk… with nowhere to put them!
My wife will never travel without a sarong. We have found so many uses for it – pillow case, privacy screen, beach wrap, picnic blanket, travel towel, packing cushion, etc. It’s one of the first things I recommend that any traveler brings with them to almost any destination since it’s small, lightweight, and is certain to come in very handy.
If you are prone to motion or seasickness at all, Belize isn’t where I would test my luck. There are winding roads and rolling hills, along with bouncy ferry boats for island hopping. Don’t risk turning green on an afternoon at sea, these patches are holistic and fast-acting. I put one behind my ear and within 10 minutes, the nausea always subsides. We feel it’s a better solution for our family than taking pills like Dramamine, which makes you super drowsy.
Not all souvenirs are created equal, but Belize really delivers on authentic, handmade goods like Mayan baskets, natural soaps, local carvings and jewelry, Belizean hot sauce, and more! We recommend toting this “just in case” bag that takes up virtually no space on the flight in, but can be filled with treats for the trip home. Plus, it counts as your personal item on the plane, so you don’t have to worry about another checked bag fee.
Rains are common in Belize and can soak you to the core if you’re not prepared. Being chilly and soggy is not an enjoyable feeling, so bringing a packable and lightweight jacket is always a good idea. This one will fit inside your daybag so you can take it with you everywhere and you’ll never be caught unprepared.
Belize offers top-tier outdoor activities. You’ll be hiking through Elijio Panti, the Crystal Cave Trail, and Blue Hole National Park, with lots of strenuous climbs. So pack a pair of convertible, quick-dry hiking pants that are made for a moist rainforest environment like Belize. With a silver fiber lining, it will disperse heat to keep you cool, but you can easily zip off the pant legs if you get too hot or they get muddy.
You’ll see flip-flops, beach cover-ups worn all day, casual dresses and linen pants. You’ll also see great sunglasses and hats to protect wearers from the sun, so make sure you bring yours.
Plan to bring easy, casual outfits that you feel comfortable in and which can transition from daywear during activities and beach time to evening wear for dinner and lounging. Avoid jewelry and items you wouldn’t want to get wet or dirty, and of course bring at least one (if not several) swimsuits!
Shorts, sundresses, sarongs, and tank tops are perfect for women here. Local women wear shorts, dresses, and skirts, which help them stay comfortable in the climate.
Sometimes locals will wear pants; keep in mind, they’re likely more acclimated to the heat than you are as a visitor. Loose clothing is ideal because it will keep you feeling cool in the humidity. To shield yourself from the sun, bring a pair of loose-fitting linen pants, a maxi dress, and a sunhat. Sandals are the ideal footwear for Belize, but pack a pair of hiking sandals or shoes for active days. If you visit during the dry season, it can be chilly at night; pack a sweater and a pair of pants in case of emergency.
Casual clothing is the norm in Belize. The local uniform favored by men and women in Belize consists of shorts and t-shirts (sometimes with a collar), and visiting men can plan to dress the same. Shorts accompanied by a loose-fitting shirt and sandals will keep you feeling fresh and comfortable during your stay. For active days, synthetic exercise clothing does well to wick sweat and often offers extra UV protection that’s built into the fabric. A straw hat and polarized sunglasses will give you additional protection and relief from the strong Belizean sun.
Belize is so far south it only really has two seasons: wet and dry. Temperatures stay fairly stable year-round, though humidity in the wet season will amplify it, and breezes in the dry season will give some relief. This paradise is all about relaxed, beachy vibes, so keep your outfits breezy and your colors vibrant and fun!
The dry season is considered the “cool season” because the daily average is just a touch lower than that of the wet season, and because the dryness makes the heat feel a little less intense.
You’ll be most comfortable in shorts and t-shirts, but bring a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt just in case the wind picks up in the evening.
A pashmina (or a sarong) makes for a handy extra layer for women.
As you approach the wet season (early to mid-May), sporadic rain showers are more common. You can pack a rain jacket to keep you dry in case of a downpour, and a travel umbrella is also a wise thing to have on-hand. Temperatures average between 80°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C) much like the rest of the year, but it’s drier and breezier during this season.
The wet season in Belize starts in June and usually goes through December, though it can vary by a couple of weeks give or take. The hurricane season also falls within these months. During this time, rain showers are frequent. Though they don’t tend to last more than a few hours, they are very intense and can occur fairly suddenly.
Humidity during this season intensifies the heat, so the temperature will feel hotter than it really is.
Carry a rain jacket and a travel umbrella with you at all times, and wear waterproof active shoes when you’re out and about. Hiking sandals are perfect for Belize, and will dry quickly. Don’t forget quick-dry fabrics – linen pants and shirts are your best friends, as are activewear materials. Try these moisture-wicking scarves to keep you comfortable and dry – they’re like magic and can be used as headbands or head/neck scarves. Temperatures average between 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C) like the rest of the year, but with plenty of humidity and rain.
Visiting Mayan Ruins – Once part of the Mayan empire, Belize has many ancient ruins to be explored. Plan to wear comfortable footwear because extensive walking is in order. Light, loose-fitting clothing will be most comfortable in the heat and humidity, and of course, a sun hat and sunglasses are essential. A crossbody purse or small backpack comes in handy for carrying snacks and water.
Cave tours – Cave tours involve jungle trekking, swimming, and clamoring over slippery rocky surfaces. Wear a swimsuit and synthetic clothing that will dry quickly when wet, because you’ll be in and out of the water. This type of outing calls for sensible shoes; wear sandals with secure straps, or water shoes with good grip. A dry bag will protect your belongings along the way.
Lounging by the water – There’s no doubt that you’re going to spend much of your time lounging by the ocean or pool during your visit to Belize. Swimwear is essential, as well as a swimsuit cover-up to offer your skin relief from the sun. Take a beach bag or small backpack to carry your reading material and water bottle.
It’s better to be safe than sorry, so pack only the essentials and keep valuables at home. This includes jewelry, electronics, and any keepsakes that you wouldn’t want to lose or have stolen.
It stays warm year-around in Belize, so you’ll likely never need more than a light long-sleeve — and that’s only if you’re there during the winter. Most of the time it’s warm and humid, even at night. Leave these extra items at home and save space in your suitcase for things you’ll really need.
Unless it’s completely vital, keep that screen at home. If you do feel the need to bring your computer, a lightweight one is best, but I still don’t recommend it because it’s an incredibly valuable piece of equipment. Enjoy the time to “unplug” and escape the daily grind.
Honestly, a hot and humid climate like that in Belize is not the place for thick materials like denim – especially white denim. It looks great, but you’ll regret wearing it. Opt for lighter, fast-drying materials like linen or moisture-wicking athletic and active fabrics.
The dress code is casual, regardless of the activity. Unless you’re staying at a higher-end resort or feel the need to splurge, you’ll often find yourself eating outdoors or at an open-air restaurant with your feet in the sand, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. At most, pack one nicer outfit if you plan on having a fancy date night or something, but keep it fun and light.
You may find time to read in this gorgeous locale, but you certainly won’t want to bring actual books. They’re heavy, they’re bulky, and they run the risk of being ruined in the humid atmosphere or on the beach. Bring a Kindle instead, and load all of your desired reads onto it. Seal it into a protective, waterproof cover if you’re worried about it around water.
Drinking water varies in the country, with mixed information on its safety. To err on the side of caution, most accommodations provide drinking water, either via bottle or large filtered gallon jugs. It’s best to pack a water bottle with a built-in filter if you want to be absolutely sure you always have a supply of drinkable water.
Typical high season is from December to April, with cooler temperatures and less chance of rain. The rainy season is June through November. Belize is in the path known for hurricanes – hurricane seasons are in August and October.
The low season, while with a higher chance of rain, can still be a great time to visit since it boasts fewer tourists and lower prices. I traveled there in June and rain was never a problem.
Ambergris Caye is one of the most popular, with many shops and restaurants, but it’s also one of the most crowded. This may dissuade you if you’re looking more for a peaceful escape without a lot of other tourists.
My choice was Caye Caulker because it was laid back with a handful of delicious restaurants — but nice and quiet. As for how to spend your time, you have a variety of choices based on your interests and location, including:
The CDC typically recommends Hepatitis A and Typhoid, alongside routine shots like MMR, chickenpox, and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis. Additional vaccinations may be recommended depending on location and long-term travel itinerary. Travel recommendations can certainly change – make sure you check the CDC Belize recommendations page for updated information.
While healthcare is not as high-quality as other countries in the region, most minor issues should be able to be taken care of at clinics in more populated areas. However, for serious issues, make sure that you have an insurance policy that will cover you — or look into getting additional Travel Insurance to cover the gap in coverage.
As mentioned, many of the cayes — or islands — require a ferry to get to. Upon landing in Belize City, you’ll head to the port and take off from there. Also, several cayes don’t allow cars, so once you reach your island, a golf cart will carry you the final stretch. Check with your accommodation, which can help coordinate. Otherwise, walking is a pleasurable and easy way to venture around. On my trip, one of the best parts of walking back from dinner was scoping out the street food vendors for dessert. My favorite: the cake lady (yes, that is what she called herself).
Electrical outlets in Belize take the same voltage as the U.S., 110 volt, 60 cycle. However, it would be wise to bring an adapter if you plan to visit or pass through any other countries on your trip.
No visas are required for U.S. citizens for up to 30 days, but you must have a valid passport for the duration of your stay and proof of departure. Visas are required for those wishing to stay longer than 30 days.
With an eclectic mix of the flavors of the region, seafood is the highlight here. If you wish, you can catch your own dinner if you’re taking a fishing trip, and ask a local restaurant to fry it up for you for dinner. Not into the DIY seafood? Many restaurants will simply line the day’s catch on ice trays out front. You can point to exactly what you want. Otherwise, a dish of rice and beans is a mainstay. Additionally, expat-owned spots cater to western palates with pizza joints and bars. Belize is also known for its cashews, and if you take a day trip away from the coast you’ll likely spot stalls selling cashew wine along the side of the road. Be sure to sample some — it can be great to sip as you’re floating down a river while cave tubing. Otherwise, Belikin Beer is the drink of choice for many.
