Introduction
Understanding Costa Rican Climate
Costa Rica is a paradise that offers warm weather all year round, with temperatures ranging between 70-85°F / 22-28°C.
The country experiences two seasons:
- Wet (May-November)
- Dry (December-April)
However, be prepared for rain at any time of the year. The cloud forests can feel chilly, while the Caribbean Coast rides on a reversed weather schedule.
Differentiating Between Necessary and Non-essential Items
Defining what’s ‘necessary’ and ‘non-essential’ for your Costa Rica trip may be subjective, in large part, it depends upon your unique interests and itineraries.
- Necessary items are those that you cannot do without – like clothes, medication, and ID. They should top your packing list.
- Non-essential items are things you *want*, but don’t *need* – like a GoPro or certain toiletries. They can enrich your experience but are not lifelines.
Are you keen to learn what we found helpful to bring to Costa Rica? Let’s dive right into The Complete Costa Rica Packing List.

Clothing Must-Haves for Costa Rica
What to Wear in General
For general wear, embracing Costa Rica’s relaxed vibe is the way to go.
- Pack light with 3-4 performance fabric tees, 2-3 athletic bottoms, and a casual outfit for evening leisure.
- Consider bringing a lightweight, hooded rain jacket for rainy escapades.
- Costa Ricans are casual, donning jeans, shorts, t-shirts, and trainers.
- Dressing up isn’t essential, and you can certainly follow suit.
Special Clothes for Hiking and Adventures
Adventure seekers, focus on comfort and utility. The Columbia Sandy River Shorts, with their breathable fabric and ideal length, are perfect for hiking or zip-lining.
Alternatively, you might prefer Nike Dry Fit shorts, though they’re a bit shorter.
Other necessities include:
- moisture-wicking shirts,
- a lightweight jacket for trekking,
- and durable, quick-dry pants.
Suitable Beach Attire

When at Costa Rica’s sun-kissed beaches, comfort should be your mantra.
Ladies may opt for modest one-pieces or minimal bikinis, whichever they’re at ease in, while men can choose between swim trunks and board shorts.
Beach cover-ups are must-haves; the shirt-style ones are chic yet comfortable.
Don’t forget your rash guards if you plan to surf – they’re more snug and protective than swimwear alone.
Related Article: The Best Beaches in Costa Rica.
Footwear Essentials for Costa Rica
Best Walking Shoes for Comfortable Travels
The right shoes make the journey! For long walks, choose cushioned running shoes, like the Adidas Cloudfoam; they’re light and soft.
For men, you can use a pair of soft flip-flops, but soft sports shoes would work best. Something like the Vessi Everyday Classic is ideal – both waterproof and breathable.
Keep in mind, Costa Rica isn’t a place for fresh white kicks as they’ll dirty swiftly.
Water Shoes for Costa Rican Water Activities
Water shoes are a lifesaver in Costa Rica’s often slippery waterfalls and while doing water sports like rafting or kayaking.
For the men, Consider the Aleader Aqua Water Shoes. They’re comfy and quick to dry.
For women, Speedo Water Shoe offers a breathable mesh and is ideal.
A word of advice – do test and wear them beforehand to ensure they’re a perfect fit.
Related Article: Top Vacation Places in the Caribbean.
Hair Tools Travel Bag
Accessory Essentials for Costa Rica
Essential Headgear - Sun Hats and Headlamps
Protecting your head in Costa Rica is non-negotiable. Consider the Columbia Bora Bora sun hat; it provides maximum sun protection and keeps you cool.
Ladies, a chic, wide-brim beach hat doubles as a style statement.
For those sunrise hikes and late outings, don’t forget your headlamp.
Protective Accessories - Sunglasses and Rain Covers
Costa Rica’s bright sun and sudden showers necessitate good sunglasses and rain covers. Invest in UV-resistant shades.
We love our Smith Optics for outdoor adventures and Persol or Raybans for style.
For your backpack, a reliable rain cover is a must to shield your belongings from unexpected showers.
Health and Hygiene Preparation

Insect Repellent and Bite Treatment Essentials
The tropical climate of Costa Rica beckons insects. Protecting yourself is primary. Bug sprays with DEET, like Ben’s 30% Deet Insect Repellent Spray, are effective for up to 12 hours and should be included in your Costa Rica Packing List.
For a family-friendly and eco-conscious choice, Natrapel offers a picaridin-based repellent that’s even suitable for those with sensitive skin, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Energized by the power of pepper plants, it’s safe to use.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good bug bite ointment. After Bite and hydrocortisone creams can come in handy.
Here is my Complete List of Things to Do in Costa Rica.
Staying Healthy in Costa Rica - Medications and Travel Insurance
Long before you land in Costa Rica, make sure to pack any prescribed medications you need – it may be tricky to find them there.
Consider carrying Imodium for diarrhea, Dramamine for motion sickness, and pain relievers.
If you’re a lens wearer, keep spare lenses and solution handy.
Make sure you stay healthy. Carry your vitamins and Sunscreen (SPF 20 minimum).
More importantly, embrace a good travel insurance policy. In Costa Rica, travel insurance that covers medical and emergency expenses is mandatory, making SafetyWing a popular choice among travelers due to its broad-range coverage, including adventure sports.
Adventure Gear for Costa Rica

Essential Equipment for Hikers
You’re in for a treat if you’re planning to hike in beautiful Costa Rica.
Here’s what you should consider packing:
- A sturdy, comfortable pair of hiking shoes.
- A reusable water bottle like the Lifestraw Waterbottle, for safe drinking water anywhere.
- Pocket binoculars for memorable wildlife spotting.
- Waterproof pouch/ziplock bags for protecting important items.
- A lightweight, packable rain cover for your pack.
- A basic medical kit for treating minor injuries.
Water Activity Gear
Costa Rica’s waters invite you to snorkel, kayak, surf, and float.
Proper gear would enhance your water adventures:
- Swimsuits: Pack what suits you best.
- A dry bag protects your stuff from splashes.
- You’ll need good water shoes for rocky beaches or riverbeds.
- Tempted to capture underwater beauty? A Go Pro or a waterproof phone case might be your best bet.
Electronic Necessities for Costa Rica

Tech Gadgets to Facilitate Your Experience
A handful of tech gadgets can majorly up your travel game:
- Start with your trusty smartphone, loaded with useful travel and language apps.
- Don’t forget your camera, like the Canon 90D or GoPro, to capture all your precious memories.
- The Kindle Paperwhite e-ink is light and perfect for relaxed reading time.
- Lastly, a pocket adapter ensures that your tech keeps running wherever you go.
Handy Devices to Maintain Safety and Security
It’s prudent to be prepared for unexpected situations.
Here are our top picks for safety gear:
- Durable flashlight or headlamp with rechargeable batteries. They’ve saved us more times than we can count!
- A portable charger or battery power bank keeps your devices juiced up.
- If planning night hikes, consider carrying the sturdy and super bright Cygolite – perfect for navigating darker trails.
- Jump into oceanic adventures with proper gear. Make sure to carry a waterproof camera or Go Pro to capture beautiful underwater scenes.
- A waterproof pouch or dry bag to keep your essentials dry.
Miscellany - Other Essential Items
Essential Documentation and Paperwork

Sorting documents correctly can save you a lot of grief.
Here are the essential documents you should carry:
- Passport: Proof of identity and vital for entry and exit.
- Driver’s License: Valid for driving and handy as a backup ID. Keep this separate from your main ID.
- Travel insurance documents: Mandatory in Costa Rica, it covers your emergency expenses.
- Emergency contacts: Always have a list of emergency numbers mobile-tucked.
- Booking confirmations for flights, accommodations, and activities.
Important Stuff to Pack for Transportation Convenience
A seamless travel experience requires a few ‘transport-friendly’ items.
Keep in mind the following for your Costa Rica Packing List:
- An inflatable pillow offers great comfort on long journeys.
- Have a light blanket, for warmth during chilly flights.
- Noise-canceling headphones are great for plane rides.
- Finally, keep some resealable bags handy for leftovers or storing damp clothing.
Here are my Best Costa Rica Travel Tips.
The Don't Pack List - Things NOT to Bring

Unnecessary Items Better Left at Home
Some items don’t earn space in your suitcase for Costa Rica.
Leave these at home:
- High heels or dress shoes: This isn’t a ceremonious place. Keep the fancy footwear at home.
- Expensive jewelry or accessories: Theft could be a concern. Better safe than sorry.
- Heavy books and guides: Opt for Kindle or ebook versions instead.
- Bulky bath towels: Opt for lightweight, quick-drying travel towels.
- Anything you’re not willing to lose!
Packing according to the Destination - Region-Specific Checklists
Packing for Guanacaste (Coco, Tamarindo, Conchal, Samara) and Nicoya Peninsula
Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula are famous for their heat and extensive dry season.
Here’s what to pack:
- SPF 50+ Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the scorching sun.
- Ample clothing: Lightweight and quick-drying clothes work best.
- Mosquito repellent: Keep those pesky bugs at bay.
- Dust cover: Opt for Buff Headwear to shield from dust, especially if using an ATV.
- Insulated water bottle: Stay hydrated with cold water.
Remember to follow the climate and tailor your packing accordingly.
Packing for Monteverde, Jaco, and Manuel Antonio

Monteverde’s cloud forest reserve, Jaco’s vibrant beaches, and Manuel Antonio’s national park each require specific packing considerations:
- Clothes: Pack for humidity with breathable, quick-drying fabrics. Include a light jacket for cooler evenings in Monteverde.
- Footwear: Hiking shoes are essential for exploring jungle paths and observing wildlife.
- Binoculars/Camera gear: Capture the pristine forest and its diverse wildlife.
- Beach essentials: Don’t forget swimwear and beach towels for Jaco and Manuel Antonio.
- Bug spray: Protect against forest mosquitoes.
Packing for Arenal and La Fortuna
Visiting Arenal and La Fortuna, renowned for their hot springs and volcano?
Here’s your packing checklist:
- Clothes: Bring quick-dry tank tops, hiking pants or shorts, and a lightweight rain jacket.
- Swimwear: A must for soaking in hot springs.
- Footwear: Comfortable hiking shoes for trails and flip-flops for relaxation afterward.
- Waterproof Case: Protect your phone and other essentials from splashes in the hot springs.
- Water bottle: Hydrate with a filter bottle like Lifestraw.
Packing for Osa Peninsula (Corcovado National Park, Puerto Jimenez, Drake Bay) and Costa Ballena (Uvita, Dominical, Ojochal)
Packing for the biodiverse Osa Peninsula and the spouting whales of Costa Ballena needs thought.
Here’s your checklist:
- Clothes: Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothes. Keep a light rain jacket handy.
- Hiking essentials: A seasoned hiker? Pack hiking boots, comfortable socks, and lightweight, long-sleeve shirts for hiking trails.
- Footwear: Pack sandals for beach walks. For hiking, waterproof shoes work best.
- Bug spray: Essential in this vibrant ecosystem.
- Swimwear: For the inviting beaches of Costa Ballena.
Hair Tools Travel Bag
Important Tips for Easy Packing
How to Choose the Right Luggage
Choosing the right luggage for Costa Rica boils down to trip duration, planned activities, and travel style.
Backpacks like the Osprey Travel Backpack or suitcases like the Away carry-on luggage are great, depending upon your preferences.
A waterproof backpack ensures everything inside stays dry, which is critical for Costa Rica’s varied weather!
Ideal Way to Organize Your Backpack
Organization is key! Use packing cubes and compression bags to categorize items by type.
Clothes in one, electronics in another, and so on. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space.
Waterproof pouches can house important documents and cash. Travel-sized toiletries go in a separate bag to avoid unfortunate spills.
A designated laundry bag keeps worn clothes separate.
Related Article: My Favorite Destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Hiking Boot while Travelling in Costa Rica?
Yes, hiking boots are recommended. Whether you plan on exploring rainforests or conquering mountaintops, sturdy footwear is crucial for your safety and comfort.
Opt for waterproofed, well-fitted boots with good ankle support to navigate slippery terrain without worry.
How Many Swimwear Should I Pack?
Ideally, you should pack two swimsuits for Costa Rica.
Given the country’s sibling seasons and water-centric activities, there’s a fair chance you’ll spend a good portion of your trip immersed in water, be it in a waterfall, beach, hot spring or accommodation pool.
With two swimsuits, one can always be drying while you wear the other one.
Men might want to pack an extra pair of board shorts since they can double as everyday wear.
For women, mix-and-match bikini tops and bottoms could add variety with minimal packing.
Essential Items I Cannot Forget to Bring?
Don’t forget the must-haves!
- Your passport, travel insurance details, driver’s license, phones, and chargers are crucial.
- Health essentials like insect repellent, first aid kit, medicines, sunscreen, and prescribed medication can’t be overlooked.
- For convenience, carry copies of your documents, a waterproof bag, and a reusable water bottle.
- Finally, remember your bathing suit, it’s Costa Rica!
Should I bring jeans to Costa Rica?
Jeans are popular amongst locals but might not be the best choice for tourists.
Costa Rica’s tropical climate can make jeans feel too hot and uncomfortable, especially for outdoor or active endeavors.
Moreover, once wet, jeans take ages to dry, which could be a predicament given the country’s unpredictable showers.
Instead, opt for lightweight, quick-drying pants for comfort and practicality.
Made by travelers, for travelers, check out the Barefoot Caribou Products below!
Conclusion: Costa Rica Packing List
Making the most of your Costa Rican adventure means being well-equipped for its versatile offerings.
We’ve covered essentials across clothing, footwear, accessories, health, tech, and safety to serve as your comprehensive packing guide.
Focus on simplicity and practicality, keeping comfort as your primary benchmark.
Costa Rica is about going with the flow and embracing the Pura Vida way of life – make this principle reflect in your packing strategy too!
Enjoy your amazing trip, and don’t hesitate to share your own packing secrets and experiences with us in the comments below!