In the past, I’ve felt like a pro with packing but this was my first international trip since South Africa in 2019, so I felt rusty! Like in Guatemala, I went carry on only, which was pretty easy to manage. I also spent most of my time in the water, not touring the ruins of the mainland, so this Belize packing list reflects that. Also, I didn’t include it in the list, but I purchased rum from duty-free to drink during my trip, which I highly recommend doing! Alcohol is expensive in the cayes.
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Belize Packing List
Clothing and Accessories
When it came to clothing, I tried to pack things that would be comfortable and I also didn’t mind getting dirty. Thankfully that is most of my wardrobe! If you’re planning a similar trip, don’t worry about dressing up. It’s not uncommon to see people walking around town in swimsuits.
4 tank tops
2 t-shirts
2 pairs of shorts, one denim and one athletic
1 skirt
1 dress
3 pairs of shoes: Birkenstock rubber sandals, Tevas, Birkenstock sneakers
1 hat
2 swimsuits
Buff– I didn’t end up using it, but was glad to bring it in case.
Assorted bras, undies, socks, Jockey Skimmies (a must for curvy folks!)
Sun shirt– This is essential to avoid getting sunburned on snorkeling tours.
Jewelry- I packed two pairs of earrings that I wore, but just barely.
Turkish towel– Most places I stayed didn’t offer towels.
Masks- Locals wore them so I did too.
2 pairs of sunglasses
Rain jacket- Mine is Eddie Bauer but this is a good alternative for those sporadic storms.
Gear and Electronics
Outdoor Products backpack– I’ve had a lot of backpacks over the years and this is still my favorite.
Herschel fanny pack– I used this as my purse and saw a lot of other people with similar bags!
Fold up tote bag- Perfect for shopping.
Dry bag- Mine was from a gift bag but I recommend this Osprey one.
Eagle Creek packing cubes- Lifelong loyal packing cube fan here!
Headphones
iPhone and assorted chargers
Kindle Fire– I downloaded a few shows and books to keep me entertained.
Waterproof camera- I got one in a gift bag but it didn’t have film so I didn’t end up using it!
USB plug– I have a Belkin surge protector with USB and standard plugs that I’ve had since Australia.
Sound machine– Call me old, but I loved this as a way to drown out the noise from other hostel guests and barking dogs.
Puzzles and fryjacks 
Backpack ready
Toiletries
Sunscreen– I ended up buying more because what I had wasn’t enough, along with aloe. I recommend reef safe!
Contacts and glasses
Various medicines: Pepto Bismol, rehydration salts, Ambien, ibuprofen, antihistamines, bandaids, etc.
1 travel hairbrush and hair ties
Small amount of makeup- I barely wore it. I wouldn’t bother.
Razor
Deodorant
Nail clippers
Epic Wipes– I didn’t end up using it but thought about it instead of the cold showers at one of my hostels.
Megababe thigh chafing stick and sweat powder– Self-explanatory! Can’t recommend enough.
Etc.
Travel insurance– I didn’t need to claim, thankfully! I had to book travel insurance from the country but also had yearlong Allianz insurance through my travel writers organization. I’ve also used World Nomads in the past.
Headlamp- I’ve had my Petzl Tikkina for years and it was great for going to the campsite bathroom at night.
Lock- I had a combination lock that I ended up using for my backpack since I had private rooms.
Platypus collapsible bottle– I was glad to have it when there were places to fill up! I also bought this filtered bottle, which lets you clean water to drink straight from the bottle or squeeze into another.
Passport, dive license, credit cards, and vaccine card
Journal- This little notebook was equal parts diary, itinerary, and budget management.
Snacks and tea
Earplugs and eye mask– I was so glad to have them both during one of my stays in particular.
Meow Defense ring– For safety but I didn’t need it!
Paperclip for SIM card
Door stopper- For peace of mind! Bought at the dollar store.
Puzzle- Because why not?
Duty free booze- I bought a cheap bottle of rum to drink in my room!
Float– If you’re hanging at the Split, bring your own float!
Did I miss anything? What would you pack?
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