With a trip to Costa Rica always in the future, I thought I’d compile a list of things the girls should consider when packing for Costa Rica. Packing for any destination is less stressful if you keep things simple. You’ll be much happier you did, and you’ll have more room in your suitcase for souvenirs!
First, it’s always a good idea to take some time to educate yourself on the area(s) you’re visiting. Not all parts of Costa Rica are created equally!
For example, if you’re planning on staying exclusively in the capital city of San José, you might want to skip the flip flops. If you’re staying exclusively in the beach areas, you might want to forget about the sweater. And if you’re traveling to Cartago, always take the sweater!
Traveling to Costa Rica for over 35 years has provided me with plenty of trial and error. Here’s my go-to list:
- A backpack. Leave the fancy designer bag at home. This has to be the one item I can’t be without. A stylish, lightweight pack for everyday use is worth every penny. A backpack is meant to leave your hands free to discover. It also provides room for any treasures you find along the way. And that’s good news since it could be hours before you return to your room. I suggest it as a secure alternative to fumbling with a pocketbook.
- An umbrella. If you don’t take an umbrella, I almost guarantee you’ll be buying one. When it starts to rain, wherever you are, it’s relentless. A rain jacket just doesn’t provide the same coverage. Sometimes it only rains hard for a few minutes and stops. Then you can shake that umbrella off and stow it in the backpack you brought!
- A sweater or jacket. Especially if you’re traveling to Cartago. Cartago can get downright chilly in the evening no matter what time of year. Pack a sweater, a hoodie, or even a light fleece-lined jacket. This will definitely be a must if you plan on going to Irazú Volcano–it’s COLD up there!
- Febreze travel size spray. Did I mention it rains in Costa Rica? And sometimes it’s not the ordinary ho-hum rain either. It’s serious rain. Seriously. I found that out last fall when tropical storm Nate decided to make landfall. No boots, or clothing stood a chance. And when these items start to dry out, with the humidity, let’s just say they might not smell all that great. Step in Febreze spray. There, isn’t that better?
- Sunscreen. You knew this was coming. Throwing caution to the wind regarding sunscreen is a really bad idea. Due to the intensity of the sun in Costa Rica, combined with the altitude, you’ll get seared. Especially if you’re fair-skinned like me. Take the highest SPF you can find, and reapply often especially if you’re on the beach.
- Makeup remover towelettes or Seabreeze. These are so convenient at the end of an exhausting day. And speaking of exhaust, sometimes there’s a lot of that in more urban areas as well, and it will seep into your skin. And remember Seabreeze? A good astringent is a good idea if you have room in your suitcase.
- Contact lens solution/spare lenses. Yes, you can probably find your contact lens solution in Costa Rica. They sell most major brands, including Opti-Free which is what I use (they sell it in Cartago’s Mas X Menos supermarket) but it’s about double the price, so pack a full bottle. I usually take one of the tiny sample sized bottles that will fit in my backpack, just in case I need to rinse my lenses on the go. Remember to bring a pair of spare contact lenses, too. Losing a contact would be a total vacation-ruiner.
- Pepto-Bismol, Immodium, and your pain-reliever weapon of choice. I find the heat frequently gives me a headache when traveling. Toss a few pain reliever tabs in your backpack so you don’t have to find a pharmacy. Costa Rica does sell Pepto, but last time I looked I only found the liquid. Tablets take up a lot less space in your bag. And, if you are in need of it, let’s just say you’ll be glad to not make the extra trip. Enough said.
- Plenty of undies/socks and a sports bra. You’ll be doing plenty of activities and you’ll be sweating. Consider packing a good breathable sports bra for vigorous activity. Depending on your accommodations, you may or may not have laundry facilities. Stay ahead of the game with back-ups. After all, who wants to spend their vacation doing laundry?
- Lightweight skirts. A lightweight skirt is an easy way to stay cooler and look great. They pair well with sandals, sneakers and even heels, perfect for the beach or walking anywhere. If you’re staying in the larger cities, please don’t do short shorts. It’s just not cool. Save the shorts for the beach.
- Outfits that match. Picking out outfits is frustrating enough. You’re limited on space, and you want to be prepared for every occasion. Stick with neutral colors that make everything interchangeable. For example, black, gray and white tees and tanks, blouses and a pair of joggers. Take sneakers that go with anything, even a skirt or dress.Feminize your look with a pretty hair clip, or a beautiful shade of lipstick. Good to go!
- Aqua shoes. Some of the beaches, like Jaco, are lined with pebbles. Wearing aqua shoes can take an agonizing situation and make it truly enjoyable. Navigating over sharp stones is not my idea of a good time, and flip flops just float away. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend my time having fun in the water and not worry about where I’m stepping!
I hope this list serves as a time-saver, so you can make every second of your Costa Rica experience count. But, if you do end up forgetting something important, unless you’re out in the middle of nowhere, you should find what you need at your local supermarket.
In fact, your local Costa Rican supermarket is a place you’ll definitely want to get to before your trip ends. In my opinion, it’s one the best sources for souvenirs that are truly flavors of Costa Rica