What to Pack for a Trip to Costa Rica – Packing Guide

There are so many things I love about visiting Costa Rica, one of which is that you can have SO many different experiences all in one trip! With the Caribbean on the east, the Pacific on the West, and the lush mountainous terrain in between – you can expect chill days on the beach (or in volcanic thermal mineral baths) and luxury jungle hideaways, but also exhilarating moments on adventure, like zip-lining through the rainforest, hiking volcanoes, taking a surf lesson and ATV-ing to all the best waterfalls! Although the vast range of activities Costa Rica has to offer is definitely a selling point, it does make packing a bit more complicated. That’s where I come in!

You’re mainly going to be packing light airy fabrics that won’t suffocate you during days of high humidity, but you’ll also want a couple warm layers for hiking in the mountains and the rainforest.

Table of Contents

What not to forget for Costa Rica

Bug spray – I used this one – it’s botanical so doesn’t use deet and it worked REALLY well!!! It was a lifesaver. I’ve heard of many people coming home with so many bug bites in Costa Rica – but we successfully have none!

A rain jacket – there are so many different microclimates in Costa Rica, I highly recommend packing a rain jacket and being prepared for anything!

What to wear in Costa Rica for travel days

Keep if comfy, and keep in mind that when you land its going to be warm and HUMID.

The best swimwear for Costa Rica

A chic black one piece always goes well in Costa Rica!

my daughter and I in our matching mommy and me swimwear

What to wear in Costa Rica for dinners & around the resort

Whatever luxury Costa Rica resort you choose, you’ll want to enjoy leisurely dinners and a few days lounging by the pool after all those jungle adventures.

Cute family outfits for a family trip to Costa Rica

chic mens trunks for Costa Rica!

What to wear in Costa Rica on jungle adventures

It rains a lot in Costa Rica. If I’m being honest, you’re going to want a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting ruined… Think sturdy sandals or a pair of hiking boots!

these waterproof sneakers are my go-to for hiking – they’re great for waterfall chasing and have great traction for any hiking you do in Costa Rica!