PackingGear5 min read
What to Pack for Belize
This isn't a generic tropical packing list. These are the things that our guides and boat captains tell their guests every day — because they watch people struggle without them, and watch others overpack and lug bags they never open.
Must-bringRecommendedOptional / If relevant
☀️ Sun & Water Essentials
Must-bring
Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Critical — oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned near the marine reserve. Bring enough for the whole trip.
Must-bring
Rash guard / UV shirt
More sun protection than sunscreen alone, and you'll want it for long days on the water.
Must-bring
Polarized sunglasses
The reef glare is intense. Cheap ones aren't enough.
Must-bring
Dry bag (10–20L)
For phones, cameras, and wallets on every boat trip. A $15 dry bag will save you a $700 phone.
Recommended
Waterproof phone case
As backup to the dry bag. Phone cameras have improved dramatically — you may not need a separate camera.
Optional
GoPro or underwater camera
Optional but you'll want it for the reef. Renting locally costs $40–60/day.
👕 Clothing
Must-bring
Lightweight linen or quick-dry shirts (4–6)
Cotton gets damp and stays damp. Pack light fabrics that dry overnight.
Must-bring
Swimwear (2–3 pairs)
You'll be in the water more than you expect. Two suits means one is always dry.
Recommended
Light rain jacket
Rainy season guests especially — afternoon showers are short but heavy. A packable jacket earns its space.
Recommended
One light layer / hoodie
Air conditioning in restaurants and some hotels is aggressively cold.
Must-bring
Casual shorts (3–4 pairs)
That's 90% of what you'll wear. Leave jeans at home.
Must-bring
Light sandals (e.g., Tevas or Chacos)
For the reef, beach, and town. Flip flops work but sandals with straps are more secure on boats.
If relevant
Closed-toe shoes for mainland tours
Required for ATM Cave and Mayan ruins. One pair is fine.
Optional
One nicer outfit
For dinner at a proper restaurant. Not formal — just not a wet rash guard.
💊 Health & Medical
Must-bring
Insect repellent (DEET or Picaridin)
The reef itself has no mosquitoes, but inland Belize and mangrove areas do. Essential if you're doing mainland tours.
If relevant
Motion sickness medication
The water taxi crossing can be rough. Take it 30 minutes before boarding if you're sensitive.
Must-bring
Prescribed medications + extras
Hard to replace locally. Bring a full supply plus a few extra days.
Recommended
Antihistamines
For unexpected allergic reactions. Good to have.
Recommended
After-sun lotion / aloe
Even with reef-safe sunscreen, you will burn. Aloe is available locally.
Recommended
Antidiarrheal medication
Belize City tap water isn't recommended for visitors. San Pedro water is fine for brushing teeth but drink bottled or filtered.
📱 Tech & Documents
Must-bring
Passport (valid 6+ months)
Required. No exceptions.
Must-bring
Printed/offline copy of accommodation info
Customs sometimes asks. Also useful if your phone dies.
Must-bring
Power bank (20,000+ mAh)
Long boat days drain batteries fast. One large bank beats multiple small ones.
If relevant
Universal adapter
Belize uses US-style plugs (Type A/B) — if you're coming from the US or Canada, you don't need one.
Recommended
Offline maps (Google Maps area download)
Cell service in some areas of the island is spotty. Download the map before you arrive.
Recommended
Local SIM or international plan
Digicel and Smart are the local networks. Buying a local SIM at BZE airport is easy and cheap.
What You Can Buy in San Pedro
San Pedro has more amenities than many visitors expect. You don't need to pack like you're going to a remote island:
✓Reef-safe sunscreen (several brands, higher prices)
✓Aloe vera and after-sun lotion
✓Bottled water and electrolyte drinks
✓Basic snorkel gear (or rent from operators)
✓Insect repellent
✓Basic medications at the pharmacy
✓Casual clothing and swimwear
✓SIM cards (Digicel/Smart at BZE or in town)
Note: prices in San Pedro are higher than mainland Belize and higher than US big-box stores. Pack the essentials and top up what you need locally.
Planning specific activities?
Tell Maya what you're hoping to do — snorkeling, cave tubing, ruins — and she'll tell you exactly what to bring for each experience.
Ask Maya on WhatsApp