Packing for Costa Rica trips people up because one trip can span steamy rainforest, a cool misty cloud forest, and a hot beach — sometimes in the same week. The good news: you need less than you think, as long as it's the right less.
Here's what actually earns its place in the bag, from people who live in it.
Clothes: light, quick-dry, layered
It's warm and humid most places, and it will rain, so cotton that stays soaked is the enemy. Think light, quick-drying layers you can rinse and re-wear.
- Quick-dry t-shirts, shorts and a couple of light long-sleeves (sun + bug protection)
- One warm layer — a fleece or light sweater for the cool cloud forest and early mornings
- A packable rain jacket (non-negotiable in any season)
- Swimsuit (you'll want it more than you expect), plus a quick-dry towel
- A sun hat and sunglasses
Footwear
Two pairs cover almost everything: closed shoes with grip for muddy trails, canyons and waterfalls, and sandals you don't mind getting wet for the beach and town. Hiking boots are overkill for most trips; trail runners or sturdy walking shoes are plenty.
The things people forget
- A dry bag (or zip bags) — for phones and cameras on boats and wet trails
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a strong insect repellent
- A reusable water bottle — tap water is safe in most of the country
- A small daypack for day trips
- Binoculars — the difference between hearing wildlife and seeing it
- Any personal medication; pharmacies are good but bring what you rely on
Tech and odds and ends
Costa Rica uses the same plugs and voltage as North America (type A/B, 120V), so travelers from the US and Canada need no adapter; visitors from Europe, the UK and elsewhere do. Bring a power bank for long days out, and a headlamp or small torch — handy for night walks and the occasional power blip.
What to leave home
Skip the heavy hiking boots, the formal clothes (nowhere needs them), the giant first-aid kit, and most of the 'just in case' pile. Costa Rica is casual, well-stocked, and easygoing — pack light and leave room to move.
Common questions
- What should I wear in Costa Rica?
- Light, quick-drying layers: t-shirts, shorts, a couple of light long-sleeves for sun and bugs, a warm layer for the cool cloud forest, and a packable rain jacket. Closed shoes with grip for trails plus sandals for the beach cover most days.
- Do I need a power adapter for Costa Rica?
- Costa Rica uses the same outlets and voltage as North America (type A/B, 120V), so US and Canadian travelers don't need an adapter. Visitors from Europe, the UK and most other regions will.
- Can you drink the tap water in Costa Rica?
- Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country, so bring a reusable bottle. In a few remote areas bottled or filtered water is wiser — your guide or lodge will tell you.