Moving to Belize is a dream—stunning beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, and an affordable cost of living. But if you’re thinking about making the move, there’s one reality you should prepare for: shopping isn’t as simple as it is in the U.S. or Canada.
Belize doesn’t have Walmarts, Targets, or giant shopping malls, and that means you’ll need to get creative when it comes to getting the things you need. Whether it’s household essentials, electronics, or your favorite snack brands, expats have figured out smart ways to shop—and you can, too!
That’s why we created "How Expats in Belize Get What They Need: Amazon Shipping, Border Shopping & More," a must-have resource that breaks down all the best methods expats use to shop efficiently in Belize. But before you grab the full report, let’s go over some key strategies that make life easier for expats.
Amazon Shipping to Belize: Does It Work?
Amazon is a lifesaver for many expats, but it doesn’t always ship directly to Belize. That doesn’t mean you can’t get what you need—it just means you’ll need a workaround.
One of the most popular solutions is using freight forwarders. Here’s how it works:
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Order from Amazon and ship to a U.S. freight forwarding address.
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Your package is forwarded to Belize, typically arriving in 2-4 weeks.
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You pay for shipping and customs fees, which vary based on size and value.
For example, shipping a medium-sized package can cost around $40 USD plus customs fees. While it’s not as instant as Prime delivery, it’s a reliable way to get electronics, kitchen gadgets, and specialty items.
Want to see which freight forwarders get the best reviews? Get recommendations in the report!
Border Shopping in Mexico: Is It Worth the Trip?
If you’re living in northern Belize, a quick trip to Chetumal, Mexico might be your best shopping hack. Just across the border, you’ll find large supermarkets like Chedraui and Soriana, stocked with a wider variety of groceries, household goods, and even electronics—often at cheaper prices than in Belize.
One expat shared that they save up to 30% on groceries just by making a monthly shopping trip to Mexico.
However, there are things to keep in mind:
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You need a passport to cross the border.
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There are customs limits on what you can bring back.
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Travel time varies depending on where you live in Belize.
Want some tips on making the best of your shopping trip to Mexico? It’s all in the report!
Exploring Guatemala: An Alternative for Western Belize
Expats in San Ignacio and the Cayo District often find it easier to cross the border into Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala for shopping. Guatemala offers cheaper clothing, electronics, and fresh produce, making it a great alternative if Mexico is too far.
One common reason expats shop in Guatemala? More affordable furniture options. If you’re setting up a new home, shopping across the border can save you hundreds of dollars.
Curious about what else you can buy in Guatemala? The full report breaks it all down!
Group Buying & Bulk Orders: A Smart Expat Strategy
If you’re craving hard-to-find U.S. products, teaming up with fellow expats for group bulk orders is a great solution. Many expat communities place large orders together from the U.S., splitting shipping and customs fees to make it more affordable.
For example, one group of expats in Ambergris Caye regularly orders bulk health supplements and organic foods, cutting down individual costs significantly.
Need tips on finding expat shopping groups? We’ve included the best resources in the report!
The Best Shopping Strategy? Combining Multiple Methods
Most expats don’t rely on just one method—they mix and match strategies depending on what they need. You might use:
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Amazon for specialty items
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Border shopping for groceries
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Local markets for fresh produce
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Group buys for bulk orders
The key is to plan ahead and know your options so you never feel stuck without essentials.
Want the Full Report? Get “Get What You Need” Now!
Download "How Expats in Belize Get What They Need: Amazon Shipping, Border Shopping & More" to get:
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A complete list of trusted freight forwarders for Amazon & online orders
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Step-by-step guides to shopping in Mexico & Guatemala
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Cost breakdowns for shipping vs. border shopping
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Pro tips from real expats on saving money & avoiding common mistakes
Click here to get the full report now!
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Written by Cedric Williams
I was born and raised in Belize, and now living in the U.S., I’ve seen firsthand what it’s like to live between these two worlds. My personal experience, paired with insights from others who have made the transition, inspired me to write helpful reports for those considering Belize for expat living.
I have also written books about Belize that are now available on Amazon. You can find them with this link, click here.