A good and well-summarized packing list for Costa Rica is an indispensable tool to have. As the country is so varied and there are different sorts of climates and adventures, it’s important to explore and be well-prepared. This guide will help you create the perfect packing list for a vacation in a Costa Rica.
Essentials for a Costa Rica Packing List
Button Shirts: Think lightweight, UPF protection, quick-drying, antimicrobial, and airflow venting openings. Convertible sleeves are a plus. Ideal for hiking in forests but less so for adventures like rafting or ziplining. Bring two, four, or six, depending on your activities.
To include in your packing list for Costa Rica a couple or more shirts in “Columbia” style is always a good idea.
T-Shirts: Short and long-sleeved ones, preferably sportswear. Neutral colors are best—not too bright. In rainforests, bright colors may attract bees, wasps, and birds, making you less likely to see wildlife.
Long Pants: Convertible pants are the best—light, quick-drying, with UV protection. Leggings are also a good idea. Avoid jeans as they get soaked, are hard to dry, and can be uncomfortable in warm weather.
Shorts: For women, ensure they are long enough for activities requiring harnesses, like ziplining or rappelling. Small shorts can be uncomfortable for these sorts of activities.
Socks: Think disposable. Especially in the rainy season, bring at least two pairs per day. There is no such thing as too many socks for a Costa Rican vacation.
Underwear: Opt for easy-to-dry, comfortable, and waterproof options. Think elasticity, impermeability, and breathability.
PJs: comfortable, light, and easy. Lodges in rainforests often only have ceiling fans, and although at times it may get chilly, mostly everywhere (except for the mountain regions and the Central Valley) is pretty warm.
Bandanas: Always useful. They can clean sunglasses, be dipped in water to cool off, and more. Bring several and keep one with you daily.
It’s one of those understated items from the packing list for Costa Rica, but you will be thankful to have them around.
Dry Bag: Get a small one for your phone and electronic devices. Available in adventure stores or big supermarkets.
Light Jacket (or Windbreaker): Even in warmer places, it can feel chilly at times, especially on boats or in open cars.
Sweater or Warm Jacket: necessary for mountain regions where temperatures can drop significantly. This happens if you are going to the mountains, and it’s particularly important if your visit is in December, January, and February.
Swimsuit: Women should opt for sports swimsuits for activities like surfing, kayaking, or rappelling. Regular swimsuits are fine for hotel pools. Men can stick to the usual shorts.
Raingear: A durable poncho is better than an umbrella in the forest. Ensure it’s big enough to cover all your belongings.
Shoes: Hiking boots to the ankle, tennis shoes, and strapped sandals are essential. Strapped sandals are crucial for activities like rafting or ziplining. Avoid sandals in rainforests due to the possibility of encountering ants, spiders, worms, and small vipers.
And of course this could not be a real packing list for a Costa Rica vacation unless we said: Yes! Flip Flops! And well! Regular tennis shoes may be a good idea.
Haircare: For long hair, bring plenty of ponytail holders. Loose hair can be hazardous in activities like ziplining.
Repellent and Sunscreen: Both cream and spray are necessary. In rainforests, apply cream first and then spray over clothes.
First Aid Kit: While available in hotels and with tour guides, bring your own kit tailored to your needs. Include items for stomach issues, allergies, headaches, and pain relief.
AVOID:
If you are in rainforest areas, avoid perfume and any strong aromatic creams, shampoos, or hair conditioners.
You don’t want to learn this the hard way.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what to pack for Costa Rica ensures a more enjoyable trip. Tailor your packing list based on your itinerary and the regions you plan to visit. Being prepared with the right gear will enhance your experience and keep you comfortable across Costa Rica’s diverse climates.
Contact Information
If you need more information on this or any other subject, please do not hesitate to contact me at writer@olgasaenz.com.
While I do not operate tours or handle itineraries, I can point you to the best experts to make your dreams come true in Costa Rica. Depending on what you like to do, I know the guide and the operator for you. If I don’t know it, I know who knows. 😉
Author Note
Olga Saenz writes for several fantastic tour operators. This post first appeared on Amazing Costa Rica: amazingcostaricacr.com. https://www.amazingcostaricacr.com/2024/06/13/the-amazing-costa-rica-packing-list/
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