How to pack for Costa Rica…

With the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea separated by just over 100km of what National Geographic described as ‘the most biologically intense place on Earth’, Costa Rica is the perfect luxury holiday destination for those in search of adventure and wildlife in a laidback setting.

A veritable paradise for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and sun worshippers alike, this vibrant country boasts lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and pristine beaches that beckon travellers from all over the globe.

As an operator that takes sustainable tourism seriously, trips should be taken mindfully, maintaining utmost respect for the environment: Costa Rica leads the world in eco-tourism, making it imperative to be conscious of waste, disturbing wildlife, and veering from marked trails. To find out more about how we are doing our bit to further responsible travel, head on over to our Be There page!

Ensuring you are well-prepared before trekking into this biodiverse haven is paramount. Costa Rica makes for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, so thoughtful planning is necessary to make the most out of your experience! Luckily, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the requisite knowledge to buy you some peace of mind as you explore the land of Pura Vida…

Packing Essentials

Clothing: The tropical days are hot and humid so we recommend light, comfortable cotton shirts. Casual wear is acceptable for most occasions in the city. For most trips, bring swimwear, as there are chances to slake off the tropical heat with a swim in a river or dip at a waterfall. Light rainwear is a must as invariably there will be encounters with rain. Don’t forget thin towels and sun hats (to protect against the tropical sun). Thin or lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect you from mosquitos in the evenings.

Footwear: For trips to the interior that require a great deal of hiking through primary rainforest or rugged terrain, comfortable hiking or walking shoes that can handle jungle streams or muddy trails are recommended. For shorter trips that do not require a great deal of walking, a good pair of trainers will do. A pair of flip-flops, slippers, sandals or tevas should be included.

Backpacks: A lightweight, waterproof backpack is incredibly handy to keep with you. It can hold your essentials like water, snacks, camera, and rain jacket, and keep your hands free for hiking or wildlife spotting. It’s important to pack light as if you’re traveling to the remote areas on light aircraft, your luggage limit might be no more than 15kg. It’s also advisable to bring along some dry bags, they can be useful for separating your accessories from wet clothes, or keeping your camera dry on boat trips.

 

Camera Equipment: With its unique landscapes, vibrant sunsets, and exotic wildlife, Costa Rica is a photographer’s dream! While it’s unlikely you’ll forget it (especially as every phone doubles as one), providing you have a dedicated camera, don’t forget spare batteries and SD cards, as you won’t want to get stuck with a full memory card at the height of a gorgeous sunset.

Travel Adapters and Chargers: It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to overlook. During a jam-packed itinerary, you may not spend much time near plug sockets and charging stations, so packing a portable power bank is a wise choice for on-the-go charging. Costa Rica primarily uses Type A and B electrical outlets, so ensure you bring appropriate travel adapters.

Torches: A torch light, or better yet, a head torch is always useful and a must if you wish to go caving. Year round, the daylight length in Costa Rica doesn’t vary significantly – sunset is always around 5 – 6 PM and sunrise is around 5 – 6 AM, therefore a torch will be useful for any night time excursions. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries, or even an extra bulb!

Medicines/toiletries: In addition to personal toiletries bring insect repellent. A basic first aid kit should include plasters, mild antiseptic cream for insect bites or light scratches, cotton swabs, tissues, bandages and painkillers. You can buy most medicines in local pharmacies. Prices are often cheaper than in Western countries.

Sun cream: Given Costa Rica’s proximity to the equator, sun cream is an absolute necessity. Ensure you pack a wholesome quantity of reef-safe lotion with an SPF of at least 30, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun beams.

Reusable Water Bottle and Snack: In Costa Rica’s intense tropical climate, staying hydrated is a must. Bringing a reusable water bottle is both practical and good for the environment. Snacks such as energy bars, dried fruit, or nuts can provide a much needed boost during the height of adventure.

Climate

When travelling to Costa Rica, you can anticipate a tropical climate with varying temperatures based on the region and elevation. Coastal areas generally experience temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius (75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the year. Inland regions with higher elevations might have slightly cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.

Generally, the dry season, spanning from December to April, is considered the best time to visit. During this period, you can enjoy sunnier skies and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach vacations, and exploring national parks. If you’re keen on lush landscapes and don’t mind occasional showers, the wet season from May to November might suit you. This period offers vibrant greenery, smaller crowds, and is perfect for those interested in rainforest adventures.

Currency, Credit Cards & Banking

The local currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón, abbreviated as CRC. As of March 2024, 1 British Pound (GBP) is equivalent to approximately 649.65 CRC. It’s advisable to carry a mix of local currency and major credit cards for convenience.

You can use local ATMs to withdraw cash providing you’ve checked with your bank beforehand to inform them about your travel plans to ensure that your debit or credit card will work internationally. Additionally, be aware of any potential fees associated with foreign transactions or currency conversion. Using ATMs in well-traveled areas or reliable banks is generally a secure method for obtaining cash while in Costa Rica.

Credit and debit cards are generally widely accepted in Costa Rica, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, and larger establishments. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard. However, in more remote areas or smaller establishments, it’s recommended to carry some local currency for transactions, as card acceptance may be less common.

Costa Rica offers an unmatched variety of wildlife, fauna and scenic beauty, undoubtedly making it a nature lover’s paradise. If you want to find out more information about our Costa Rican itineraries, visit our destination page or contact us directly, either via email or phone (+44 117 313 7070)!