Cameras & Films: By now most people have digital cameras but if you don't, specific kinds of film may be hard to find. Bring extra batteries for your camera along with plenty of film. It's less of an expense and more convenient to bring your own. Upscale gift shops sell pocket-type cameras. Keep film in a cool place.

 

Clothing:  Climate is subtropical with annual average temperature of 80 degrees F. Dress accordingly. You'll mostly wear casual, lightweight clothing, shorts and t-shirts, jeans,  and short-sleeved shirts. Bring a sun hat to protect your face and skin. Include a sweater, lightweight waterproof jacket, long-sleeved shirt and long pants. They may be needed on boat trips as well as at night and early morning in higher, cooler elevations, or unexpected cool days during winter.  Be sure to bring a change of clothing in your carry-on luggage in case your luggage is temporarily lost or misplaced in transit.

   

Currency: $1US = $2BZ. U.S. currency is accepted everywhere. Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) and travelers checks are accepted at most places. Leave your American Express card at home. You can also get a cash advance on your credit card at the Belize Bank, Atlantic Bank and Scotia Bank in Placencia. It is a good idea to bring small bills with you because you may have a hard time using $50's and $100's .

 

Diving, snorkeling & fishing equipment:   Snorkeling equipment is usually provided by the tour operators.  Many divers will want to bring their own BC, regulator, wet suit, and mask, leave your weights at home. They can be rented. Although most fishing trips include bait and tackle, serious fly rod and spin casting anglers will probably want to bring their own gear and equipment.

 

Documents: Photocopy important documents such as passport, driver's license, credit cards, prescription medication forms, airline ticket and other important information and keep in an area separate from the original documents.

Flashlight:  A small flashlight & extra batteries are a great idea! It is dark here by 6:30 PM and a pocket flashlight is convenient.  (And occasionally there is a power outage.)

Footwear: Sandals are perfect most of the time except when you head into the Rainforest – then running shoes or hiking boots (be sure to bring socks too) are necessary for foot protection and support.

Passports: Passports are required. No visas are required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.

 

Sunscreen, lotions, repellents & pharmaceuticals: It’s necessary to protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Pack plenty of sunscreen. By now, you probably know that Belize is subtropical and includes jungles and bugs live in jungles, so bring along insect repellent. (Bahia Laguna usually has a pleasant breeze from the sea so we are not bothered by insects.)  If you are sensitive to bug bites bring along anti-itch cream and anti-histamines. (These things are now available at Wallens's Pharmacy in Placencia.)