What Should You Pack for Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is tropical, so light and breathable clothing is key. Pack light fabrics for hot days and include a rain jacket or poncho for rainy afternoons. Swimsuits are essential for beaches and hot springs, and comfortable hiking clothes are great for jungle treks. Be sure to bring sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring rainforests, relaxing on beaches, zip-lining, visiting waterfalls, and hot springs.
Dress Code
Costa Rica is relaxed, but stylish. You’ll see casual wear like shorts and tank tops for beach days, while outdoor activities call for activewear. For dinners or evenings out, you can opt for a casual dress or light slacks with sandals. Costa Rica’s nature-focused vibe means function is just as important as style.
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Spring
70 – 90°F
(21 – 32°C
)
Summer
75 – 95°F
(24 – 35°C
)
Fall
70 – 88°F
(21 – 31°C
)
Winter
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Spring: Warm, with occasional rain.
Summer: Hot, with brief tropical showers.
Fall: Rainy, with warm temperatures.
Winter: Dry and pleasant.
Spring
4.5 inches of rain
Summer
7.2 inches of rain
Fall
10.1 inches of rain
Winter
1.2 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Lightweight and perfect for casual outings and beach days—I loved having these for sunny afternoons!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for hiking in the jungle to protect your arms from insects.
3. Tank Tops: Great for hot days, especially while relaxing by the beach or pool.
4. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is great for cooler evenings in the mountains.
5. Rain Jacket: A must-have for tropical downpours, especially if you visit during the rainy season.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
2. Leggings: Comfortable and great for layering during cooler evenings.
3. Shorts: A go-to for beach days and casual outings—I really liked wearing these in Tamarindo!
4. Dresses: Ideal for casual dinners or beachside drinks.
5. Skirt: A stylish option for relaxed beach days or city exploration.
6. Jumpsuit: Easy and versatile for day-to-night wear.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for jungle hikes and city tours—I always bring mine for treks to the waterfalls.
2. Flats: A good choice for evenings out or strolling through towns.
3. Swimsuit: For beach days and hot springs—my favorite style for this is a sporty bikini that’s great for swimming!
4. Beach Coverup: Perfect for transitioning from the beach to a casual lunch spot.
5. Sarong: Ideal for lounging on the sand or using as a coverup.
6. Sunglasses: Crucial for protecting your eyes during hikes and beach days.
7. Flip Flops: Great for quick trips to the beach or walking around your hotel.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips or keeping your essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Great for hikes, beach trips, and jungle tours.
3. Purse: Perfect for evenings out and keeping things light while exploring.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying beach essentials or shopping finds along the way.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Lightweight clothes: The tropical climate is warm and humid, so pack light clothes that breathe easily.
- Rain gear: The rainy season can bring heavy showers, so be prepared with waterproof jackets or ponchos.
- Water shoes: Many activities involve water, from beaches to waterfalls, so pack shoes that can get wet.
- Hiking clothes: Costa Rica’s jungles are a must-visit, so bring long pants and hiking shoes for treks.
Costa Rica Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT COSTA RICA?
December to April is the best time to visit Costa Rica, as it’s the dry season. This period is great because the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and beach trips. It’s also less rainy, which makes it ideal for exploring national parks and volcanoes!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN COSTA RICA?
Envision Festival (February): A music and eco-living festival on the Pacific Coast, perfect for couples and solo travelers interested in music, yoga, and sustainable living.
Palmares Festival (January): A large tourist attraction with music, dancing, and bullfighting, ideal for families and groups.
Día de la Independencia (September 15): A national celebration with parades and fireworks, great for families and experiencing local culture.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN COSTA RICA?
Costa Rica is full of natural wonders and wildlife. One of my favorite places is Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can hike, spot monkeys, and relax on white-sand beaches. Arenal Volcano and its hot springs are a must-see, especially for those who love adventure and relaxation. Don’t miss Monteverde Cloud Forest for stunning biodiversity and zip-lining through the treetops!
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT COSTA RICA?
You need at least 7-10 days to fully experience Costa Rica, including its beaches, national parks, and volcanoes.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore San José and visit the National Museum and Central Market. On day two, head to Arenal Volcano for a day of hiking and relaxing in the hot springs.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit Manuel Antonio National Park for wildlife spotting and beach time. On day four, explore Monteverde Cloud Forest and go zip-lining. On day five, relax on the beaches of Guanacaste or visit a coffee plantation.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six exploring Tortuguero National Park and its canals. On day seven, visit Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean coast for more wildlife and snorkeling.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore the Nicoya Peninsula beaches. Spend day nine in the Osa Peninsula for off-the-beaten-path wildlife adventures. On day ten, relax at Tamarindo Beach or visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore the remote Corcovado National Park. Spend days twelve through fourteen relaxing at various beaches along the Pacific Coast, such as Playa Conchal or Playa Flamingo.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Swimsuits
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Swimsuits
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR COSTA RICA?
Heavy winter coat: The tropical climate makes this unnecessary.
Expensive jewelry: Best to leave valuable items at home for safety.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO COSTA RICA ?
Airfare: $400-$900 depending on the season and departure location. Prices increase during high season (December-April).
Accommodation: $50-$300 per night depending on whether you choose a budget hotel or eco-lodge. Prices rise in high season.
Transportation: $50-$150 for car rentals or bus fare. Public transportation is affordable, but car rentals give you more freedom to explore.
Meals: $20-$60 per day depending on dining choices. Street food is inexpensive, while restaurants can be pricier.
Activities: $30-$100 per day depending on tours, national park entrance fees, and adventure activities like zip-lining.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN COSTA RICA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is common in Costa Rica. It’s typical to tip 10% in restaurants, but many already include it in the bill. $1-2 per bag for porters, and $1-3 per drink is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT COSTA RICA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use colones: Though US dollars are accepted, it’s better to have Costa Rican colones for small purchases.
- Protect against mosquitoes: Costa Rica’s tropical environment means mosquitoes are common, so pack bug spray.
- Respect nature: Costa Rica values its environment, so always follow eco-friendly practices, especially in national parks.
- Public transport: Buses are cheap and reliable, but renting a car can give you more flexibility.