Hey there, fellow explorers! Planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering what to pack? You’re in the right place! Here’s your ultimate Costa Rica packing guide for an unforgettable adventure!
Important Documents
- Always first on my list to anywhere!
- Your original passport (not a copy), valid for your entire stay.
- Valid driver’s license if you plan to rent a car (not a temporary or expired one).
- A credit card with no foreign transaction fees (like Chase Sapphire Preferred).
- Travel insurance, especially in uncertain times.
- Copies of hotel, tour, car rental, and flight reservations.
Essential Items
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (think shorts, tank tops, t-shirts).
- Comfortable sandals and flip-flops.
- Swimwear for those beautiful beaches and hot springs.
- Mosquito repellent for year-round protection. (We love the hello bello from Walmart for both us and our kiddos.)
- Sunscreen (at least SPF 30) and after-sun care.
- Sunglasses and a hat.
- A basic medical kit.
- A waterproof phone case.
- A good camera to capture your memories.
- A day pack for outings.
- A rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
- An insulated water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Hiking poles if necessary
Clothing Tips
- Costa Rica’s dress code is casual, so pack comfy clothes.
- For the beach, think shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops.
- In cities, opt for closed-toed shoes, long pants, and a light jacket.
- If you plan to explore higher elevations, pack warm layers.
Footwear Tips
- Bring hiking shoes/sandals, sneakers, or trail running shoes.
- Don’t forget flip-flops for beach days.
- Closed-toed hiking sandals are versatile and dry fast.
- Waterproof shoes are great for rainy days.
Toiletries and Medications
- Most toiletries are available locally. (If you prefer specific feminine hygiene products, diapers, diaper cream, etc, pack those. We did have to buy diaper cream in a pinch, and thankfully our hotel gift shop carried it.)
- Pack face wash, hair detangler spray, wet wipes, and tissues.
- For contact lens wearers, bring extra lenses and solution.
- If you take medications, carry a list with active ingredients.
Staying Dry
- A Rain Jacket is essential during the rainy season (May to December). Opt for a waterproof one. Even in the dry season, bring a lightweight rain jacket for certain areas.
- Day Bag (or backpack carrier with kids) that also has a rain cover. A sturdy, 20-25L backpack is great for day trips. Especially if it has a water reservoir.
- Microfiber Towel – quick dry towel is useful for jumping in waterfalls and to wipe sweat, keep cool, or use as a beach blanket.
- Dry Bag
Fun in the Sun
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swimwear
Cameras and Technology
- Consider an action cam like a DJI Action (LOVE) or a GoPro for adventure shots.
- For photographers, wide-angle and telephoto lenses are handy.
- Don’t forget extra SD cards, tripod, selfie stick
I hope this covers your ultimate packing list for Costa Rica! Check out my blog on how to do La Fortuna with Toddlers!
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