Planning a successful trip means coming prepared and making a Costa Rica packing list. This isn’t a country you want to just “wing it” in. With the insects, rainy seasons, humidity, and UV rays, make the most of your time by adding these Costa Rica essentials to your list.
Here’s everything you need to know about things to pack for Costa Rica in Central America.
Table of Contents
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What is the weather like in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry season (December to April) and rainy season (May to November, including the shoulder months) outside the Caribbean Coast.
The Caribbean Coast is generally rainier, but a lot less in September and October.
During the dry season, you can expect sunny, humid days with minimal rainfall, and this is the peak tourist season. Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (24-35°C), depending on the region.
On the other hand, the rainy season brings more frequent rainfall (surprise, surprise). However, mornings often remain sunny, and afternoon showers are common. Temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (24-32°C).
Keep in mind that Costa Rica’s climate largely depends on the region. This is all thanks to its diverse geography, including coastal plains, rainforests, mountains, and cloud forests.
For a small country, Costa Rica offers A LOT in terms of ecotourism, diverse landscapes, and biodiversity.
Costa Rica Essentials - The Basics
These are the items you shouldn’t skip out on when considering things to bring to Costa Rica. Let’s get into it.
Travel insurance
This is a big one. I’ve been lazy with travel insurance in the past, and it was a mistake. I fell off a motorbike, got bit by a cat, drank from the wrong tap, and got TONS of mosquito bites when I spent 2 months in Costa Rica.
And I’m not even an adrenaline junkie – travel health insurance is a must.
I recommend Safety Wing. They have a global policy that covers 180+ countries, obviously including Costa Rica. You can visit any doctor, cancel anytime, and you’re even covered for a few weeks after returning to your home country.
It’s also affordable and a great pick for traveling through Costa Rica.
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Natural insect repellent
I can’t emphasize enough how incredibly handy this natural innsect repellent will be. You don’t want to end up like me with dozens upon dozens of mosquito bites all over my legs. Definitely the most mosquito bites I’ve ever had in my life.
Even if your accommodation in Costa Rica has a mosquito net over the bed, you’re still susceptible to bites outside the room.
Keep a natural, free of harsh chemicals insect repellent within your day bag and apply it a couple of times a day. This is a must-have for your Costa Rica packing list.
Just spent 5 minutes scrolling through my phone to find the photo I sent my mom of ALL the mosquito bites all over my legs… decided you guys didn’t need to send it… Almost included it.
Reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll be able to find sunscreen at pharmacies in Costa Rica, but I am particular about using eco-friendly sunscreen that is certified reef safe.
I recommend Raw Elements. I wear it on my face every single day, whether I’m traveling or not.
For Costa Rica, you’ll want to wear SPF 30+ and reapply multiple times a day.
Rain jacket
A light rain jacket is going to be very handy when packing for Costa Rica. The seasons can vary by region, but in general, there are two seasons in Costa Rica – the rainy season and the dry season.
However, the Caribbean Coast is different from the rest of the country. When you visit destinations like my beloved Puerto Viejo or Tortuguero, you’ll see less rain if you travel there from September to October.
But keep in mind that the dry season on the Caribbean Coast is the OPPOSITE of the rest of the country. That means you’ll get more rain elsewhere through September and October.
Either way, just bring a light rain jacket for your trip to Costa Rica, no matter what part of the country you’re visiting.
Costa Rica Packing List - What to Wear + Outfit Ideas
Follow along with this guide to find out what to clothes to pack + Costa Rica outfit ideas, whether you’re visiting for the dry or rainy season.
Quick-drying pants
I wear these lightweight hiking pants and they’re one of my favorite pairs of pants EVER. You’ll want to have these for rainforest hikes, bike rides, or whenever you want to cover your legs and still feel cool.
They also have UPF 50+ sun protection and adjustable cords around the cuffs that can help prevent mosquito bites on your legs.
These will be great to have in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, for example.
2 swimsuits
With the high humidity, your swimsuit is unlikely to dry overnight, so having 2 that you can switch out will be best when making your Costa Rica packing list.
Rash guard
The UV index (which tells you how strong the sun’s rays are on a given day) often range from 7-12 in Costa Rica. This means the UV index generally ranges from high (6-7), very high (8-10), to extreme (11+).
You do not want to be swimming in the ocean all day when the index is that high. But if you do, wear a rashguard to help prevent severe sunburns.
Hiking boots
If you plan to do a lot of hiking, you’ll definitely want to bring a pair of hiking shoes for Costa Rica. There are a lot of bugs and critters running around Costa Rica and you don’t want to be trekking in open-toed shoes.
My go-to hiking shoes for Costa Rica are these Columbia boots. They are waterproof, affordable, and great for trekking.
Sun hat
Speaking of, bring two pairs of sun hats to Costa Rica. One cuter one and one that’s more functional for exploration. Just make sure they have a good UPF number and not a lot of holes (like woven hats) that provide less protection.
Light cardigan
It can cool off in the evening, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season. So, consider bringing a light cardigan or sweatshirt.
Linen/cotton cover up
I wore 2 different button up shirts nearly every day in Costa Rica. These were to protect against the sun and provided a nice breeze when biking around Puerto Viejo.
Comfortable walking shoes
Something durable and preferably water resistant. They can be running shoes, hiking shoes, etc.
Shorts
Depending on the duration of your trip, at least 2 will be suitable. You can go for a pair of quality hiking shorts that can be worn on and off the trails and something that can be dressed up or down.
Quick dry shirt
For hikes and long days of exploring, you’ll definitely want to have something that is quick drying. The humidity is HIGH.
A couple of dresses, skirts, or rompers
Wear these when you’re out exploring the towns or going out at night. Wrap skirts are great day and night as beach cover ups and cute evening outfits. One of my favorites to have when coming up with Costa Rica outfit ideas.
2 cuter tops
Ones that will match your shorts or skirts. Also prioritize materials like cotton and linen over synthetics that tend to trap heat. Check local shops to find locally made clothing to support the economy and its citizens.
Outdoors/hiking sandals
Tevas or Chacos are my go-to picks. I wore these Tevas for most of my 2 months in Costa Rica. Something that can be used as water shoes is a good idea as well. Having your toes free will free great in the humid weather, so these are Costa Rica packing list must-have.
Other Items for Your Costa Rica Packing List
Beyond outfits and clothes for Costa Rica, here are some other essentials you’ll want to add to your suitcase.
Anti-theft crossbody bag: Petty theft can happen in Costa Rica. Be vigilant and use one of these anti-theft crossbody bags while traveling in the country.
Quick-drying travel towel: One of these thin, quick-drying towels will be very handy for Costa Rica’s humid weather and days at the beach.
Sunglasses: Choose a polarized pair that reduces glare for the sun, especially when by the water.
Small padlock, if you’re staying in hostels. See my hostels packing guide for more information.
Travel flashlight: Being so close to the equator, the sun sets pretty early in Costa Rica. The earliest sun sets happen around 5 p.m. with the latest happening just after 6 p.m. So a travel flashlight or headlamp if you plan on walking at night.
Reflector tag: Something to wear on your clothes if you’re walking in the evenings, as there aren’t a lot of sidewalks in Costa Rica and the sun sets early. I love this cat-shaped reflector.
Day pack: Something to put your water bottle and Costa Rica essentials in when you’re hiking and exploring towns.
Reusable water bottle: Bonus points if it’s insulated. It will be far more refreshing on a hot and humid day. I use this Hydroflask.
Camera: I use this lightweight and travel-friendly mirrorless camera. That’s one I used throughout my time in Costa Rica.
Extras When Packing in Costa Rica
Here are a few other items that will help maximize your trip when traveling in Costa Rica.
- Laundry detergent sheets: These are more travel-friendly and better for the planet
- Mini first-aid kit
- Binoculars: If you want to watch wildlife and birds, there are more than 900 species of birds in Costa Rica
- Waterproof Kindle: For downtime. As the sunsets are so early, having evenings of downtime often means Kindle reading in a hammock.
- Bug Shield Scarf: It’s a real thing! I used one during my time in Costa Rica. They’re lightweight and repel mosquitos and other pesky insects.
- Microfiber hair towel: I love having a hair towel to wrap my curls up in after a shower. Plus, many cheaper hotels and hostels don’t have hair dryers in the rooms.
- Waterproof phone case: Just in case!
FAQ
Here are some of the most common questions people ask when making a Costa Rica packing checklist.
How should I pack for a week in Costa Rica?
You’ll want to bring quick-drying clothes for the humid weather, 2 pairs of casual shorts for hiking or walking around towns, 2 dresses for evenings, a few shirts, at least 2 swimsuits, hiking shoes, and sandals. See the guide above for the most comprehensive guide on what to pack for Costa Rica.
Should I wear shorts in Costa Rica?
Yes, definitely. There is no problem wearing shorts in Costa Rica. However, outside of beach towns and resorts, Costa Rica can be a bit more conservative, but that does not include avoiding shorts (unless they are VERY short).
Can I wear jeans in Costa Rica?
It’s not a bad idea to bring jeans for Costa Rica if you are visiting during the rainy season or like to wear jeans in the evenings. It’s too hot in a lot of the country to wear jeans during the day, unless they are loose fitting.
However, when I was in San Jose in November, it was quite chilly and a pair of jeans would have been perfect.
Do I need a travel guide to visit Costa Rica?
It depends on your travel style. Having a travel Spanish phrase book, however, is a good choice if you don’t speak a lot of Spanish. In terms of travel guides, there are a lot of really insightful Costa Rica tips on travel blogs that are constantly updated providing you with the most accurate information, compared to printed travel guides.
Thank you for reading my Costa Rica packing list. I hope it helps you to plan an immersive and captivating trip to this STUNNING country.
Feel free to check out some of my other posts on Costa Rica, like what to know before visiting Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast.
Costa Rica Packing List: Recap
- Travel insurance
- Credit card
- Natural insect repellent
- Reef safe sunscreen
- Rain jacket
- Quick dry clothes (pants, shorts, shirt)
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Light cardigan
- Rash guard
- 2 Swimsuits
- Linen/cotton cover up
- Dress, skirt, and/or romper
- 2 cuter tops
- Hiking sandals
- Anti-theft crossbody bag
- Quick-drying towel
- Sunglasses
- Small padlock
- Travel flashlight
- Reflector tag
- Day pack
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera
- Laundry detergent sheets
- Mini-first aid kit
- Binoculars
- Waterproof Kindle
- Bug Shield Scarf
- Microfiber hair towel
- Waterproof phone case
