You're headed to San Pedro, Belize in May — a lively Caribbean island town on Ambergris Caye where turquoise water, thatched palapas, and a relaxed beach rhythm set the tone. May sits at the start of the wet season and brings warm, humid days, occasional tropical showers, and excellent snorkeling and diving conditions along the Belize Barrier Reef. Expect salt air, barefoot-friendly streets, and lots of opportunities to be outdoors.

May is hot and humid with a growing chance of rain as the wet season ramps up. Days commonly sit in the high 70s–low 90s °F (25–33°C) with warm nights and frequent, short-lived tropical downpours. Ocean temperatures are delightfully warm — perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

Before I list everything, remember San Pedro is a small island — if anything is time-sensitive, pack it in your carry-on. Humidity and the occasional baggage delay make this smart.

• Passport and photocopy of passport
• Plane ticket / boarding pass and any reservation confirmations (digital + screenshots)
• Cash (small US dollars and Belize dollars) and one credit card — ATMs exist but can be limited
• Travel insurance info and emergency contact list
• Lightweight, quick-dry change of clothes (1 set) and underwear
• Reusable water bottle with a filter or purification tablets
• Prescription medications in original containers + a small first-aid kit
• Phone, charger, portable power bank, and waterproof phone pouch
• Printed list of dive/snorkel operator contact info if you booked activities

Think breathable, sun-ready pieces you can layer for a breezy evening or an air-conditioned restaurant.

• 4–6 short-sleeve shirts or tank tops (moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal)
• 2–3 pairs of shorts or skirts
• 1–2 casual sundresses or linen outfits (if you prefer)
• 1 pair of lightweight long pants (for mosquitos or cooler evenings)
• 1 light rain jacket or compact poncho (May showers are intermittent)
• Lightweight sweater or long-sleeve shirt for air-conditioned spaces
• 5–7 pairs of underwear and socks
• 1–2 swimsuits (allow one to dry while you wear the other)
• 1 rash guard or swim shirt (for sun protection while snorkeling)
• 1 wide-brim hat or cap and a packable sunhat
• Sleepwear

San Pedro is casual and often sandy — prioritize comfort and water-friendly options.

• Comfortable sandals or flip-flops for the beach and town
• Lightweight water shoes (for snorkeling launches, rocky spots, or boat decks)
• One pair of casual walking shoes or sneakers (if you plan to bicycle or explore further)

If you have personal snorkel gear you prefer, bring it — rental quality varies.

• Snorkel set (mask, snorkel, and fins) if you own one that fits well
• Snorkel vest (optional, for extra floatation and peace of mind)
• Dry bag for electronics and valuables during boat trips
• Reef-safe sunscreen (broad-spectrum SPF 30+; look for mineral options)
• After-sun balm or aloe vera
• Lightweight microfiber beach towel or quick-dry towel
• Small snorkeling bag or mesh bag for wet gear

Keep it minimal and reef-friendly where possible.

• Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, travel shampoo/conditioner)
• Small sunscreen sticks for lips and face
• Mosquito repellent (DEET or picaridin formulas are effective — use at dusk)
• Motion-sickness remedies if you’re sensitive to boat rides
• Hand sanitizer and a few disinfectant wipes
• Anti-diarrheal medicine and oral rehydration salts (just in case)

Expect slower Wi‑Fi in some spots; bring patience and backups.

• Phone, charger, and international power adapter (Belize uses 110V, plug types A/B)
• Camera or action camera (waterproof housing if you’ll be snorkeling)
• Extra memory cards and batteries or a power bank
• Copies of important documents stored separately from originals

These items elevate comfort and convenience on an island trip.

• Lightweight daypack or crossbody bag with a secure zipper
• Small travel umbrella (compact) if you prefer over a rain jacket
• Snorkeling mask anti-fog solution or baby shampoo (to prevent fogging)
• Portable fan or cooling towel for hot, sticky afternoons
• Earplugs and eye mask for lighter hotel walls and early sunrises
• Small binoculars for bird- and boat-watching
• Waterproof credit card sleeve and zip-top bags for damp items

If you’re diving, bring irreplaceable personal items in carry-on baggage.

• Dive certification card and logbook
• Personal dive computer (if you have one)
• Mask, snorkel, and fins (boats sometimes lack well-fitting rental gear)
• Spare O-rings and a small dive tool kit (if you maintain your gear)

A few quick habits to make island life easier once you arrive.

• Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles; use packing cubes to separate wet/clean items.
• Put any liquids in sealed zip-top bags to avoid leaks in hot luggage.
• Keep a small dry change of clothes in your carry-on in case checked bags are delayed.
• Leave room for market finds like local rum or woven goods (remember customs limits).

The humidity will be high and brief rain showers are common — a compact rain shell and quick-dry clothing will keep you comfortable. Sun is strong year-round, so pack reef-safe sunscreen and a hat: you’ll thank yourself after the first day on the water. If you plan to dive the Belize Barrier Reef, bring personal masks and dive computers where possible; rentals are available but sizes and quality vary.

Quick Facts

• Currency: Belize Dollar (BZD); U.S. dollars are widely accepted
• Language: English (widely spoken), Belizean Creole commonly heard
• Voltage/Plugs: 110V, plugs type A/B
• Time zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6)

Enjoy the ease of island days, the warm Caribbean water, and the friendly rhythm of San Pedro — May brings lush greenery, lively coral, and the relaxed mood that makes Ambergris Caye so easy to love.