Costa Rica Packing Tips: What We Actually Used

Packing for Costa Rica doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re visiting the beach, rainforest, volcanoes, or cloud forest, this Costa Rica packing list covers the essentials we actually used — no over-packing, no unnecessary gear.

This list works for families, teens, couples, and first-time travelers. 

Having the right gear helps, but choosing the right activities matters just as much - my Costa Rica Dos and Don’ts page covers what to prioritize and what to skip. 

---

Lightweight Rain Jacket (Essential for Costa Rica Weather)

Rain jackets are one of the most important items on any Costa Rica packing list, even in dry season.

Costa Rica weather can change quickly. A light rain jacket keeps you comfortable during short tropical showers, windy boat rides, and cooler evenings.

What to look for

          👍Lightweight and breathable

👍Packs small

👍Waterproof (not just water-resistant)

We used REI's waterproof rain jacket and it met our needs perfectly. 

---

Refillable Water Bottle (You’ll Use This Every Day)

Staying hydrated is critical in Costa Rica’s heat and humidity. A refillable water bottle is a must-pack item.

We used Owalla water bottles and loved them for travel because they:

👍Keep water cold all day

👍Don’t leak in backpack

👍Are easy to carry on hikes and tours

Costa Rica can get HOT, even in the rainy season and the winter. Be prepared! 

---

Best Shoes for Costa Rica Travel

You don’t a lot of shoes in Costa Rica - just the right shoes.

         👍You need one pair of water proof shoes that you can also hike in like Tevas or Keens. 

         👍One pair of tennis shoes.

         👍Flip flops or pool shoes. 

 

The ground can be hilly, uneven, and/or slippery. Comfort and safety is key! 

---

Swimsuits (Pack More Than One)

Between beaches, hot springs, waterfalls, and hotel pools, swimsuits are a daily staple in Costa Rica.

Packing tip

👍Bring 2–3 swimsuits per person
👍Choose quick-dry fabrics
👍One suit that can handle walking or light hiking

You’ll often swim, change, and swim again later in the day.

---

Bug Spray or Lotion (Much cheaper to bring than to purchase on arrival)

Bug spray deserves its own spot on any Costa Rica packing list, especially if you’re visiting rain forests, cloud forests, or anywhere near water.

After trying a few options, I strongly prefer Picaridin-based bug lotion. It worked well, didn’t smell terrible, and didn’t feel sticky or greasy. Plus it gets through TSA. 

Why Picaridin works better for travel

👍Effective against mosquitoes for many hours
👍Gentler on skin than DEET
👍Doesn’t damage clothing or gear

We applied it mainly in the mornings and evenings and were totally fine.

---

Additional Must Have Costa Rica Packing Items

👍Lightweight daypack

👍Hat and sunglasses

👍Lightweight binoculars

👍Sunscreen (reef-safe is best) (ALL sunscreen is VERY expensive in Costa Rica)

👍Small dry bag for boats and beaches

👍Lightweight long-sleeve shirt & one heavier sweatshirt for colder nights

---

What NOT to Pack for Costa Rica

Avoid over packing & leave these at home: 

👍Heavy jackets 

👍Fancy clothes or Jewelry (You do not want to draw attention to yourself)

👍More than 2-3 pairs of shoes

👍Trade out jeans for light weight pants or shorts 

Costa Rica is casual, practical, and active.

---

Final Costa Rica Packing Tip

Pack light. Costa Rica is about experiences, not outfits. The less you bring, the more room you’ll have for coffee, chocolate, and souvenirs.

Want more money for clothes and tours? Check out how to get 5 free hotel nights with the Marriott Bonvoy Card. 

---