Costa Rica's climate changes quickly between the hot, humid coasts, the steamy rainforests, and the cool, misty mountains. On one trip, you might surf in Tamarindo, hike a volcano, and wear a fleece in the Monteverde cloud forest. This Costa Rica packing list covers the essentials, clothes for every region and season, rain and outdoor gear, and the tech you need to stay connected.
Travel Essentials
- Passport: Valid for your whole stay, and check the entry rules for your nationality. You may be asked for proof of onward travel.
- Driving license: If you plan to rent a car, bring your license and a credit card in the driver's name.
- Payment methods: Cards are widely accepted, and US dollars are common in tourist areas, but carry some colones for buses, small shops, and rural areas.
- Travel insurance: Make sure it covers adventure activities such as ziplining, rafting, and surfing.
- A small first-aid kit: Plasters, antiseptic, pain relief, rehydration salts, and something for an upset stomach.
Clothing
Costa Rica sits about 10 degrees north of the equator, so pack for the tropics, with a few warmer layers for the highlands.
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothes: T-shirts, shorts, and light trousers that dry fast in the humidity.
- Long sleeves and long trousers: Useful for sun and mosquito protection on jungle hikes.
- A fleece or light jacket: Monteverde, the Poás and Irazú volcanoes, and early mornings can be cool.
- A casual outfit for dinner: Costa Rica is relaxed, and you rarely need anything formal.
Beachwear
- Swimsuits and a cover-up.
- A rash guard for surfing and snorkeling, which also protects against the sun.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- A quick-dry towel for beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs.
Footwear
- Hiking shoes or boots with good grip: Rainforest trails are often muddy and slippery.
- Sport sandals or water shoes: For river crossings, waterfalls, and rafting.
- Flip-flops: For the beach and your accommodation.
Rain and Outdoor Gear
- A light rain jacket or poncho: Essential in the green season and in the cloud forest year-round.
- A dry bag and waterproof phone pouch: For boat trips, rafting, and sudden downpours.
- A daypack: For hikes and day trips.
- Binoculars: They make a huge difference for spotting sloths, toucans, and quetzals.
- A headlamp: For night tours and dark lodge paths.
- A reusable water bottle: Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country, but check locally.
- Insect repellent: Especially in the green season and on the Caribbean coast.
Tech and Electronics
- Smartphone and charger: Costa Rica uses type A and B plugs at 120 V, the same as the United States.
- A power bank: For long days of driving and tours.
- A Costa Rica eSIM: An egoViet Costa Rica eSIM connects as soon as you land, so you can navigate rural roads, book shuttles, and share wildlife photos without roaming fees. See our Costa Rica eSIM guide.
- Offline maps: Download them before you go, as signal can be weak in remote areas.
- An action camera: For ziplines, rafting, and snorkeling.
What Not to Pack
- Heavy jeans: They take forever to dry in the humidity.
- Too many clothes: Laundry services are easy to find.
- Expensive jewelry.
Ready to Go?
Plan your trip with our Costa Rica travel guide, choose your dates with the best time to visit Costa Rica, and read our tips for a family trip to Costa Rica.
FAQs: Costa Rica Packing List
What should I wear in Costa Rica?
Light, quick-dry clothes for the coasts and rainforest, plus a fleece and rain jacket for the mountains and the green season.
Do I need a plug adapter for Costa Rica?
Costa Rica uses type A and B plugs at 120 V. Travelers from Europe, the UK, Asia, and Australia need an adapter, and should check that their devices support 120 V.
Do I need hiking boots for Costa Rica?
Shoes with good grip are important for muddy trails. Lightweight hiking shoes are enough for most hikes.
Is it cold in Monteverde?
It can be cool, especially in the evening and early morning, with temperatures often in the mid-teens Celsius. Bring a fleece and rain jacket.