Costa Rica Travel Kit
Everything on Glen's Costa Rica list in one place, grouped by what the day throws at you: rain, river, sun, bugs and trail.
Costa Rica packs differently from a city trip. You can get sun, a downpour and a muddy trail in the same afternoon, especially in the green season (roughly May to November). This kit covers those days. Buy only what your itinerary needs.
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Rain and river days
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry BagKeeps a phone, passport and camera dry on boat tours, river floats and sudden storms.
RANDY SUN Waterproof SocksFor river crossings and wet trails when you do not want to change shoes.
- Packable rain jacket
Green season rain usually comes in the afternoon. A jacket that folds into its own pocket earns its space.
- Quick-dry water shoes
Rocky beaches, waterfalls and river entries are easier on your feet with these.
Sun, bugs and heat
Women’s UPF 50 Long Sleeve UV Sun Protection Safari Shirts Outdoor Quick Dry...Long sleeves with UPF 50 cover you from sun and bugs at the same time.
- Reef-safe mineral sunscreen
Bring more than you think. Sunscreen costs much more in beach towns.
- Insect repellent (picaridin)
For dusk on the coast and any rainforest walk.
- Quick-dry travel towel
Light, dries fast in humid air, and doubles as a beach blanket.
Trails and wildlife
- Lightweight waterproof hiking boots
Arenal, Monteverde and Rincón de la Vieja trails get muddy. Break them in before the trip.
- Compact binoculars
Sloths, toucans and monkeys are often high in the canopy. A small pair makes the guided walks far better.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for HikingSafe water on long hikes and in remote spots, and less plastic.
Protect Life First Aid Kit for Home/BusinessBlisters, cuts and scrapes on the trail. Pack it in your daypack, not your suitcase.
- Rechargeable headlamp
Night walks are one of the best wildlife experiences in the country.
Pack and power
Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for SuitcasesSeparates wet, dirty and clean clothes, which matters in the humidity.
Travel Bottles for ToiletriesTSA-size bottles for a carry-on only trip.
INIU Portable ChargerLong days of photos and maps drain a phone fast.
Passport Holder Cover Wallet Travel Essentials RFID Blocking Leather Card...Keeps your passport, cards and boarding passes in one place.
Read before you go
Frommer’s Costa Rica (Complete Guide)Full country guide for planning regions and routes.
By GlenBargain Traveler’s Handbook The Ultimate Guide to Traveling on a Budget...Glen's own book on traveling well for less.
- A plug adapter. Costa Rica uses the same Type A/B outlets and 120V power as the US.
- Heavy jeans and dress clothes. Quick-dry layers work better almost everywhere outside San José.
- Full-size toiletries. Pharmacies and supermarkets are easy to find in towns.