Belize Packing List: Everything You Need For Your Vacation
Planning your trip and wondering what belongs on the perfect Belize packing list? After visiting Belize a few times—including both the islands and the jungles of San Ignacio—I’ve learned exactly what to bring (and what to leave behind).
Whether you’re cave tubing through ancient Mayan sites, snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef, or just relaxing at a beachfront restaurant, packing smart makes all the difference. And yes, I’ve managed it all with just a carry-on—even during rainy season, when extra layers and gear are a must.
Belize is a destination of extremes. One day you might be hiking through dense, humid rainforest, and the next you’re out on a boat under the blazing sun. That’s why this packing guide for Belize breaks down what you’ll need by region and activity, from lightweight clothing and adventure-ready shoes to beach essentials and the best travel accessories to keep you comfortable in the heat. With the right plan, you won’t just pack light—you’ll pack smart.
So whether you’re heading to San Pedro, Caye Caulker, or deep into the jungle, this Belize packing list has you covered for any adventure.
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Weather in Belize
Belize has two main seasons: dry and wet. The dry season runs from December to May, with minimal rain, lower humidity, and plenty of sunshine, making it the most popular (and most expensive) time to visit.
The wet season, from June to November, brings more frequent rainfall, especially between June and October, with September being the wettest month. While showers can be heavy, they’re often short-lived, leaving time to explore between downpours.
Weather impacts both pricing and packing. High season (December to April) means higher prices and bigger crowds, while low season (June to September) offers cheaper stays and fewer tourists, as long as you don’t mind the occasional storm.
Should I visit Belize during rainy Season?
Visiting Belize during rainy season (June to November) has its pros and cons, depending on where you go. On the coast and islands, rain usually comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of sunshine between showers.
Inland, especially in the jungle, storms can last longer, and heavy rains may flood trails, make caves impassable, or cancel adventure tours. That said, prices are at their lowest, and you’ll find great deals on hotels and excursions.
If you don’t mind a little unpredictability, rainy season can be a budget-friendly way to experience Belize—just be flexible with your plans!
Island Weather
Belize’s islands, like San Pedro and Caye Caulker, stay warm year-round, with daily highs in the mid to high 80s°F and nights rarely cooler than the mid-60s°F.
The dry season (December to May) brings sunshine, lower humidity, and almost no rain, making it the busiest time to visit. The rainy season (June to November) brings more showers, especially from July to October, though they’re usually short with plenty of sun in between.
Light, breathable clothes are essential, plus a rain jacket during wetter months. Expect perfect swimming weather year-round, though seas can get choppy during hurricane season.
San Ignacio Weather
San Ignacio, set in the Belizean jungle, sees more seasonal temperature changes than the coast. During the dry season (December to May), highs stay in the low to mid-80s°F, with cooler nights in the mid-60s°F. In the rainy season (June to November), expect hotter, more humid days in the 90s°F and warm nights in the low 70s°F.
Rain is heaviest from June to September, with over half the month bringing showers. Unlike the coast, jungle rains are stronger and last longer, making trails muddy and rivers rise quickly.
With high humidity and big swings between day and night temps, pack adventure-ready clothes for activities like ATV tours, cave explorations, and Mayan ruins, plus a light sweater for cooler evenings.
What to Pack for Belize
Packing for Belize can feel tricky, especially on your first visit—even more so if you’re traveling with just a carry-on.With different landscapes, activities, and weather patterns between the rainforest jungle and the coastal beaches, it’s important to pack strategically.
>> Visit my complete one week Belize itinerary for helpful travel tips, recommendations, and more!
First, consider how much time you’ll spend in each location. San Ignacio’s jungle is all about adventure tourism, so chances are you’ll be cave tubing, hiking to Mayan ruins, or even horseback riding. These eco-tourism experiences call for moisture-wicking athleisure and durable outdoor wear.
By contrast, the beach is all about water activities and relaxation. You’ll want a snorkeling sun shirt, breathable clothing, and a few options for evening dinners or drinks.
Once you’ve decided how many days you’ll spend in each location, you can pack accordingly. I’ve put together a comprehensive Belize packing list that covers essentials for both the jungle and the islands, making sure you’re prepared no matter where your adventure takes you!
Packing Essentials
First, let’s go over the must-have items you’ll need no matter where you’re visiting in Belize. Whether you’re exploring the jungle, relaxing on the beach, or hopping between islands, these essentials will keep you comfortable and prepared. From weather-ready clothing to everyday travel gear, these are the nonnegotiables that belong in every suitcase.
Sunscreen
The Belize sun is intense year-round, whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring Mayan ruins, or out on the water. Bringing sunscreen is essential to avoid painful sunburns that could sideline your trip.
I love using a sunscreen stick for my face and neck—it’s easy to apply on the go, mess-free, and TSA-friendly. A reef-safe sunscreen is also a great choice, especially if you’ll be snorkeling or diving, as it helps protect Belize’s delicate marine ecosystems and is required.
Sun Hat
A good sun hat is a must for any trip to Belize. The sun is strong, and many activities—like hiking Mayan ruins or taking a boat ride to the barrier reef—leave you fully exposed.
I personally love a wide-brim, packable hat that shields both my face and neck, offering all-day sun protection without taking up too much space in my bag.
Electronics
Phones, cameras, and headphones are must-have travel essentials, and Belize is no exception. Whether you’re capturing the turquoise waters, filming jungle adventures, or just staying connected, the right electronics make all the difference.
Personally, I love bringing my Instax camera to snap organic, instant polaroids during my trip. There’s something special about having tangible travel memories without the pressure of taking the “perfect” digital shot. If you plan to be out on the water, consider a waterproof phone pouch to keep your phone safe while still capturing every moment.
Reusable water bottle
Belize’s tap water isn’t always safe to drink, and even locals are cautious about where they fill up. Resorts and hotels often provide filtered water refill stations, making a reusable water bottle an essential packing item. I prefer an insulated bottle to keep my water cooler for longer in Belize’s heat, especially when spending time outdoors.
For even more convenience, a filtering water bottle is a great option to make any water potable—no second-guessing needed. The LifeStraw bottle uses advanced filtration technology to remove bacteria and contaminants, ensuring safe drinking water anywhere on your trip.
Sunglasses
The Belize sun is no joke, especially when you’re out on the water or spending full days exploring. Sunglasses are the best option to reduce glare and protect your eyes while boating, snorkeling, or walking through ancient ruins.
Daypack (preferably waterproof)
A daypack is a must-have for any trip to Belize. Since rain showers can be unpredictable—especially during the rainy season—I highly recommend bringing a waterproof dry bag to protect your gear from sudden downpours.
I’ve been using the Earth Pak backpack for years, and it’s been a game-changer for travel in rainy destinations. In Belize, we got caught in a thunderstorm at a Mayan ruin, and my camera gear stayed completely dry!
Portable Charger
With so much time spent exploring away from your hotel, a portable charger is a must to keep your devices powered up. Whether you’re navigating with Google Maps, capturing photos, or booking last-minute tours, the last thing you want is a dead phone.
I’ve been using an Anker portable charger for years, and what I love most is that it can recharge my devices multiple times on a single charge—perfect for long travel days.
Portable Washing Bag
A portable washing bag is a game-changer for keeping clothes fresh while traveling light. Whether you’re backpacking through Belize or just trying to stretch your wardrobe on a longer trip, having a way to wash your clothes on the go is incredibly useful.
The Scrubba portable wash bag has become my go-to for laundry while traveling. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to use—just add water, a little detergent, and scrub. It’s perfect for rinsing out sweaty hiking clothes, underwear, or light layers without relying on hotel laundry services.
Quick Dry Towel
While some resorts and eco-lodges provide towels, it’s a good idea to bring your own for day trips and excursions. I love packing a Turkish towel because it’s lightweight, packs small, and dries quickly. Plus, it’s versatile—use it as a blanket, wrap, or even a makeshift beach cover-up.
Bathing Suits
No matter where you’re headed in Belize, a bathing suit is a must-have in your suitcase. Even in the jungle, most eco-lodges and resorts have pools, perfect for a refreshing soak after a long day of exploring. But beyond just relaxing, many jungle adventures require a swimsuit too—from cave tubing to swimming in jungle waterfalls.
First Aid Kit
Personally, I’m not big on packing more than I need, and that applies to my first aid kit as well. I keep a small Welly first aid kit for minor bumps, blisters, and scrapes, which is usually all I need while traveling.
Belize is an adventure-filled destination, so having a few basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can be a lifesaver.
Jungle Essentials
San Ignacio is all about adventure, which means your packing list needs a few extras to keep you comfortable. From humid hikes to cave tubing and buggy trails, these essentials will help you stay dry, protected, and ready for whatever the jungle throws your way.
Bug Spray
There are plenty of critters in the jungle, but mosquitoes are the real issue. Bring bug repellent wipes, which don’t count as a liquid and are easy to pack. They’re perfect for evenings, when mosquitoes are at their worst, and great for quick reapplications on the go.
Closed Toe Shoes
Some jungle excursions, like the ATM Cave Tour, require closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort. Many hiking trails, cave systems, and ruin sites have rocky, uneven terrain, muddy paths, or even areas where you’ll wade through water.
A sturdy pair of shoes will keep your feet protected while navigating slippery surfaces, river crossings, and dense jungle trails.
Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt & Pants
A lightweight long-sleeve shirt and pants are super useful for a trip to the Belize jungle. They help protect you from mosquitoes, biting insects, and scratchy plants while hiking, and breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics keep you comfortable in the heat.
A long-sleeve shirt is also helpful on cave tours like ATM, offering extra coverage while climbing over rocks and squeezing through tight spaces while also keeping you warm. They double as sun protection, making them a smart, multipurpose addition to your bag.
Beach Essentials
Belize’s islands and beaches are all about sun, sand, and water, so your packing list needs a few extras to keep you comfortable. These essentials will make sure you’re ready for long boat rides, snorkeling trips, and laid-back beach days.
Snorkeling Shirt
A long-sleeve snorkeling shirt one of my favorite beach essentials. The sun is strong, especially on the water. And snorkeling the Belize Reef requires specific sunscreen requirements, which makes a snorkeling shirt a must. This shirt will help protect you from Belize’s harsh sun while enjoying the marine life.
Sandals
You’ll want easy slip-on sandals (like flip flops) for beach life. Whether you’re hopping on a boat, walking to dinner, or heading out for a casual stroll, something quick-drying and comfortable is key.
Waterproof Phone Case
Between boat rides, beach days, and snorkeling trips, a waterproof phone case is a lifesaver. You can snap photos right from the water without worrying about ruining your phone—highly recommend for those Hol Chan or Shark Ray Alley moments.
Travel Documents
Passport – Required for entry into Belize, and make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your trip dates.
Travel Insurance – Always a smart idea to have coverage for unexpected delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies.
Travel Card Without Foreign Transaction Fees – Great for saving money on purchases and avoiding extra fees while abroad.
Bank Card for ATM Withdrawals – Belize is a cash-friendly country, so having a debit card for easy local currency withdrawals is helpful.
Belize Packing List: Clothes and Shoes
When it comes to clothing and shoes for Belize, think lightweight, breathable, and comfortable.
With warm temperatures year-round and plenty of outdoor adventures, you’ll want clothes that can handle heat, humidity, and sudden rain showers—plus a few extras for those unexpected moments.
>> And, if you plan on taking a carry-on be sure to put all your clothing in packing cubes. (I like these ones.)
Lightweight Shirts
Pack a few quick-dry, breathable shirts for both jungle tours and beach days. I love bringing a mix of cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics to stay comfortable in the heat. Avoiding polyester will help you stay cooler and less sweaty, especially in the humid jungle air.
Rain Jacket (for Rainy Season)
A light, packable rain jacket is key if you’re visiting during rainy season. Afternoon showers are common and can come on fast. Traveling with a rain jacket will ensure you’re never without the right gear in a pinch.
Lightweight Sweater
Evenings can be cooler in the jungle and the beachfront breeze, so a light sweater or long sleeve is nice to have, especially from December to February. But if you’re like me and are cold often it’s a great idea to have year round.
Linen Pants or Shorts
Cotton or linen fabrics are great choices for pants and shorts to stay cool in the Belize heat. They’re lightweight and comfortable, making them perfect for everything from jungle hikes to beachside dinners.
Dresses and Jumpsuits
I personally love to pack dresses and jumpsuits because they take up less space in your bag and are super versatile. You can wear them to the beach, around town, or out to dinner at your jungle lodge without needing to change. Plus, they’re an easy way to stay cool and comfortable while still looking put together.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You’ll want sturdy shoes for days spent exploring ruins or wandering through towns. Go for something you’ve already broken in.
More Belize Tips + Inspiration
- Check out my complete one week itinerary that brings you to the jungle and the coast
- Want to save money on your trip to Belize? This Belize on a Budget guide will help
- Traveling from San Ignacio to Caye Caulker can be easy – here’s how to do it
- Caye Caulker is my favorite Belize island to visit and I have a helpful guide with everything you can do
