What to Pack for Costa Rica: The Ultimate Packing List

If you’re craving lush rainforests, epic adventures, dreamy white-sand beaches, and a side of vibrant culture, Costa Rica is calling your name! This place is a total gem and easily one of my all-time favorite destinations plus, it’s one of the most visited spots in the world for a reason, welcoming almost 3 million tourists each year.

The vibes here? So chill. Costa Ricans (aka Ticos) are super welcoming and English is widely spoken, making it a breeze to get around and fully relax.

But here’s the thing: Costa Rica is super diverse, with tons of landscapes and even 27 microclimates! That means you’ve gotta pack smart and be ready for whatever nature throws your way.

No worries, though, I’ve got you! I put together a complete packing list for Costa Rica (yep, even broken down by season) so you can spend less time stressing about what to bring to Costa Rica and more time planning those bucket-list-worthy adventures. 

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What to Pack for Costa Rica: The Ultimate Packing List

What to Pack for Costa RicA Year-Round

No matter when you’re planning your trip to Costa Rica rainy season, dry season, or somewhere in between there are a few essentials you’re definitely going to want to pack. These are your ride-or-die travel items that will come in handy no matter the time of year.

Lightweight, Breathable Clothing

Costa Rica is hot and humid with a tropical climate, so you’ll definitely want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfy. Think long sleeve shirts, tees, shorts, flowy dresses, skirts, or pants made from fabrics like merino wool, linen, rayon, nylon, poly blends, or lightweight cotton.

The goal? Stay cool and dry while looking cute for all those rainforest hikes and beach days! 

Swimsuits

You’re absolutely going to want to pack 2-3 swimsuits trust me! Between swimming in the ocean, soaking in hot springs, or chasing waterfalls in the rainforest, you’ll be living in your swimwear. Having extras means you won’t have to slip into a damp suit the next day (because, let’s be real, nothing dries fast in that tropical humidity!)

Waterproof Sandals 

For beach town strolls or boat tours, waterproof sandals like Tevas or Chacos will seriously be your new BFF. They dry fast, have awesome grip for slippery or rocky spots, and are crazy comfy for all-day exploring. 

Comfortable Sneakers or Hiking Boots

Costa Rica is packed with epic hiking trails from cloud forests and jungle to volcanoes and misty mountain ranges so you’ll definitely want to pack a pair of comfy sneakers or hiking boots for your adventures. Look for ones with good grip and a sturdy sole to handle all the rocky, uneven trails you’ll be exploring. Your feet will thank you! 

Water Shoes

If you’re planning to splash around in rivers, waterfalls, or rocky beaches, water shoes or water socks are a total game-changer! They’ll protect your feet from sharp rocks, shells, or slippery spots so you can focus on the fun without worrying about what’s under the water.

Flip Flops

For those lazy beach days, you have to pack a pair of flip-flops. They’re the ultimate throw-on-and-go shoes, perfect for sandy toes, and super easy to rinse off when you head back to your hotel.

Rain Jacket 

No matter when you visit Costa Rica, a lightweight rain jacket is a must! Sudden downpours are just part of the adventure especially up in mountain spots like Monteverde, where the weather loves to keep you on your toes. 

Sunscreen

The tropical sun in Costa Rica is no joke. It’s way stronger than you’re probably used to, so don’t forget to pack some reef-safe SPF 30 (minimum!) sunscreen and apply it every single day, even when it’s cloudy. 

Insect Repellent with DEET

Mosquitoes are everywhere in Costa Rica, especially when you’re deep in those lush rainforests. Trust me, you’ll want to pack bug spray with DEET and reapply it throughout the day to avoid becoming a walking buffet. Bonus: it also helps protect you from things like dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses.

Microfiber Towel

A quick-dry microfiber towel is seriously a lifesaver during Costa Rica travel adventures. It’s super compact, dries in no time, and comes in clutch for beach days, sweaty hikes, or those surprise rain showers.

Sunglasses

The Costa Rican sun is no joke, especially along the coast or up in the mountains. Don’t forget to toss a pair of sunglasses in your bag, they’ll save your eyes from that intense tropical glare and have you looking extra cute while you’re out adventuring.

Sun Hat

For a little extra sun protection (and style!), pack a sun hat or a baseball cap. It’s perfect for hikes, boat days, or anytime you’re out under that strong tropical sun.

Reusable Water Bottle

Do yourself (and the planet) a favor and pack a reusable water bottle. You’ll save cash, stay hydrated in that tropical heat, and keep single-use plastics out of paradise. Just be sure to check with your hotel, restaurant, or tour guide for the best water source.

Dry Bag

If there’s one thing I highly recommend for Costa Rica, it’s a dry bag. Between rainforest humidity, boat rides, and those random downpours, you’ll be so glad you have one. It’s a total game-changer for keeping your valuables like your phone, credit card, and passport safe and dry while you’re out exploring, and it’s big enough to also store all your essentials like your water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks.

Flashlight

Power outages happen more often than you’d think in Costa Rica, especially if you’re off-the-grid in more rural areas. Packing a flashlight or headlamp is one of those little things that’ll make a huge difference, helping you stay safe (and stress-free) when the lights unexpectedly go out.

Travel Umbrella

A small, packable umbrella is seriously a must for Costa Rica’s wildcard weather. One minute it’s sunny, the next downpour! 

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What to Pack for Costa Rica in Dry Season (December to April)

Light Cotton or Linen Clothing

Dry season = hot, sunny, and super dusty. Pack plenty of lightweight, breathable clothes; cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking tech gear will keep you cool and comfy in that tropical heat.

Bandana

ATV rides down dusty dirt roads? You’re gonna want a bandana to cover your face. It’ll help block dust and even give you a little bonus sun protection!

Aloe Vera Gel

Let’s be real; if you didn’t catch at least a tiny sunburn, did you even go to Costa Rica? Aloe vera or after-sun gel is a must for soothing the skin and fast healing, so you’re ready for more adventure the next day. 

Hydration Salts

The heat is no joke this time of year! Electrolyte packets or hydration salts will keep you feeling energized and help you bounce back from all that sweat.

Swim Shirt or Rash Guard

Whether you’re surfing, snorkeling, or jet skiing, throw on a rash guard or swim shirt to protect your skin from sunburn and irritation.

Lip Balm with SPF

Your lips need love, too! The tropical sun can dry them out fast, so grab a lip balm with SPF to keep them soft and sun-safe all trip long.

What to Pack for Costa Rica During Rainy Season (May to November)

Waterproof Shoes

Wet feet are an instant mood killer, and trust me, in Costa Rica’s rainy season, it’s bound to happen. Pack some waterproof sneakers or hiking shoes so you’re ready to trek through muddy trails or even splashy city streets without soggy feet slowing you down.

Full Rain Jacket

A little drizzle? More like full-on tropical downpours! A proper rain jacket (not just a flimsy poncho) will be your bestie for staying dry, whether you’re jungle hiking or wandering through town. 

Extra Socks

Even with waterproof shoes, having extra socks on deck is a must. There’s nothing’s worse than walking around in wet socks all day hello, blisters!

Mosquito Net

Staying somewhere rustic or deep in the jungle? Pack your own mosquito net just in case your lodging doesn’t have one. No one wants a surprise midnight bug party.

Packable Sweater

The rain can cool things down fast, especially at night in places like Monteverde or San Gerardo de Dota. Bring a light sweater or sweatshirt to stay warm and cozy.

Quick-Dry Pants

For rainforest hikes or humid areas, quick-dry pants will keep your legs protected without turning into heavy, soaked fabric. So worth it!

Play Cards and a Book

You’ll likely have some chill, rainy afternoons perfect for a good book or card game. Pack something fun to keep you entertained when you’re cozied up indoors.

What to Pack for Costa Rica During the Shoulder Months (April/May and November/December)

Dry and Rainy Season Gear

The shoulder season is a total mixed bag sunny mornings and rainy afternoons are super common! Pack a combo of both worlds: rain jacket and waterproof shoes for those surprise showers and reef-safe sunscreen, sunnies, and breezy clothes for when the sun’s out.

Sturdy Shoes with Grip

The trails can get a little slick as the rainy season kicks in or winds down, so bring waterproof shoes with solid grip so you can keep up (and stay upright) on all your adventures!

Layered Clothing

With weather flip-flopping between hot and humid to cool and breezy (especially after a rainstorm), layers will save you! Be ready to shed or add pieces as the day changes.

Light Fleece

If you’re heading up into the highlands or staying in spots with blasting A/C, you’ll be glad you packed a light fleece or sweater to keep cozy. Trust me you’ll thank yourself later! 

Costa Rica Packing List

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Prepare for your trip to Costa Rica and have the time of your life!

Getting ready for a trip to a new place is so exciting but I totally get it, it can feel a little overwhelming, too. Like, what do you even pack? What’s a must-do? And where’s the best food hiding?! If you’re heading to Costa Rica, don’t worry I’ve got your back! Whether you’re renting a car or living it up at a luxury resort, you’re gonna have an epic time, especially when you roll in feeling prepped and ready to go.

If you’re interested in more resources to help you plan your trip, check out my blog, where you’ll find posts like “Top Tips for Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park” and my review of the Amor Arenal Rainforest Resort in Costa Rica, or my packing list for Europe. For even more inspo, be sure to follow me on Instagram at @sierrainthecity!