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What to pack

As you’ve probably noticed, Costa Rica’s climate is about as diverse as its topography. There are steep mountains, lowland jungles, tons of beautiful beaches, cloud and rainforests, dry and hot grasslands, and even live volcanoes with bubbling mud pools and hot springs. 

So what on earth should you pack for a visit to Costa Rica when your planning on combining experiences and locations? The following list of 15 essential should cover all the bases and ensure you’ve got just the right gear and necessities to get the most out of every minute in the land of Pura Vida.

Things you need

  • Your medications, eyeglasses (and a spare), and basic first aid like antibiotic ointment, elastic bandage for sprains, band aids.
  • Your essential documents (passport, driver’s license, ID), a list of important passwords (e-banking, credit cards, email, etc), cash (never rely on plastic alone, you never know when you might encounter a cash-only scenario).
  • Sun Screen (sweat and waterproof, high coverage), SPF lip balm, good hat, insect repellent (a must!)
  • Water bottle (with a filter if you’ve got it).
  • Cell phone, camera, binoculars.
  • Spanish language dictionary or popular phrase book, travel/field guide (like Frommers or Lonely Planet, a waterproof map.
  • Flashlight or headlamp.
  • Good walking shoes, reef runners (water shoes for rocky beaches), secure walking sandals, flip flops, one pair of something dressy.
  • Sun hat (again), sun glasses, bandana.
  • Waterproof jacket or poncho, plastic zip lock bags to transport wet clothing (of varying sizes)
  • Toiletries (yes, everything you use at home if you think it might not be available here).
  • Extra socks, plenty of underwear, and quick drying lightweight clothing that can get wet and be layered depending on the temperature or weather conditions.
  • Bathing suits (at least 2), sarong, beach towel.
  • Something pretty (or handsome) for those romantic dinners.
  • Warm jacket, extra warm socks, warm hat ( if your visiting extreme elevations bring thermal long sleeve shirts and leggings).
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