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What We Packed—and What We Didn’t Need



We thought we needed everything.

Two backpacks, three duffels, one rolling suitcase, and a camera bag.Packing cubes for everyone. Zip-off pants. Refillable water bottles. Travel games. Electrolyte packets. Three kinds of bug spray.

Traveling to Belize as a family—especially with a grandparent and a teenager in the mix—felt like prepping for a wilderness expedition. And yes, we were trying to be ready for anything: rain, heat, jungle, beach, boats, buses, bugs, and downtime.

But now that we’re back?We know exactly what mattered. And what didn’t.


What We Used Constantly

1. A lightweight daypack per personFrom rainforest hikes to reef days, having a small, comfortable daypack was key. Each of us could carry water, a snack, a rain layer, and a personal item without needing to dig through the main luggage.

2. Quick-dry clothingHumidity is real in Belize. So are spontaneous swims and afternoon rains. Quick-dry shorts, rash guards, and breathable fabrics were essential—especially when you’re hopping between jungle trails and snorkeling boats.

3. Comfortable walking shoes + simple sandalsWe didn’t need hiking boots. Just broken-in walking shoes that worked for uneven paths and some light mud. And flip-flops or sandals with straps for beach days and village strolls.

4. A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen (reef-safe)The Caribbean sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Everyone—from the teenager to Grandpa—was glad they had a good hat and SPF that didn’t harm the reef.

5. CuriosityThis one’s not in your suitcase, but it matters more than anything else. The kids asked questions. The grandparents shared stories. And everyone leaned into learning together.


What We Brought But Rarely Used

1. Fancy outfitsWe packed a “just in case” dress and collared shirt for nicer dinners. We wore them once, maybe twice. Belize is relaxed. Even in the nicest jungle lodges or beachfront restaurants, casual and clean is more than fine.

2. Extra tech gearTripods. GoPro attachments. Chargers for devices we didn’t end up using. We thought we’d be documenting everything—but honestly, we didn’t want to be behind a screen. A phone or single camera was enough.

3. “Travel activities”Books. Games. Card decks. We used them… but far less than expected. Turns out, floating in the pool, stargazing, or just talking at dinner beat screen-free entertainment every time.

4. Heavy outerwear Even when it rained, it was warm. A light rain shell was perfect. Anything heavier never left the bag.

5. Too many “just in case” itemsWe overpacked toiletries and snacks. Belizean shops had what we needed. And the local food? Way better than protein bars.


What Surprised Us

Less was more.The best part of the trip wasn’t what we had—it was what we let go of. Schedules. Screens. The pressure to entertain every moment.

We had room to explore ancient Maya ruins at our own pace. To sit quietly in a cacao grove. To listen to our guide explain how leafcutter ants shape the forest floor.

Belize slowed us down.



Family Tips We’d Share With Other Travelers

  • Pack one carry-on laundry kit — detergent sheets, a sink stopper, and a stretchy line. It let us re-wear favorites instead of overpacking.

  • Assign one “team photographer” per day — that way, everyone else can stay present and you still get the shots.

  • Bring one flexible outfit for each activity type — jungle, reef, dining, lounging.

  • Don’t stress about matching or stylish gear — your favorite photo will be the one with messy hair and muddy smiles.


What We’ll Pack Next Time

Truthfully? Less.

We’ll still bring the basics—sun protection, good shoes, reusable water bottles. But more than anything, we’ll bring the intention to notice. To connect. To keep our eyes open and our hands mostly free.

Because that’s what made the trip unforgettable—not what we wore or carried, but what we experienced side by side.



Travel light. Experience deeply. Let us handle the planning—so your family can focus on what really matters.



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