After spending about 5 minutes in the Costa Rican humidity I quickly realized, this was not a war my straight haired self was going to win...I was going to have to embrace my curls for the week if I wanted to look halfway decent. There were a few items, along with the Curl Talk gel, that I realized were essential for a successful Costa Rican vacation.
The various climates across Costa Rica make for a larger packing list since you may encounter some cooler weather days OR some sweltering hot summer-like afternoons!
I'm not including every single thing you're going to want to bring to Costa Rica, but the things I felt were necessary after my recent trip.
You can fill in the rest!
Rain Jacket- The North Face Women’s Antora Rain Hoodie
I recommend one light rain jacket for the warmer humidity days and a heavier rain jacket for night time or when it is a heavier rain. They recommend always having a rain jacket with you wherever you go because you never know when it could start raining. We found this to be very true especially in La Fortuna where the clouds are always on the move.
Baseball hat- Billabong Skull Dad Hat
A baseball is multi functional here. It is good to keep the sun out of your eyes but for me especially good to keep my hair out of my face. Since the sun is so hot, you definitely need to keep your faces protected. In a couple situations we were up really high and it tended to be windy, so make sure to hold onto your hat!
Matching athletic set- QQQ Workout Matching Set Women’s
This set was super comfy and cute from Amazon. You definitely want to be comfortable and rocking some athletic outfits especially when you are hiking or visiting the hot springs.
Teva sandals- Teva Hurricane Drift Hiking Sandals
These sandals are a perfect in between when you can’t wear hiking boots but also don’t feel safe wearing flip flops! They are great for warmer conditions or when you are exploring the hot springs. I get grossed out with touching the bottom of ponds so I kept them on! They are waterproof and also super comfy!
Hiking shoes- Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are a necessity when it comes to travel in La Fortuna and Monteverde. There was even one hike I did not dress prepared and wore my sandals. The path was super muddy and I wish I had worn my hiking boots.
One piece suit/ rash guard- Day Break Long Sleeve Surf Suit Hurley
I was definitely going for the one piece vibes this vacation. However, I also knew the one piece or rash guard was going to be important for surfing. When in Rome, am I right?! Since I didn’t have a rash guard, we ended up borrowing them from the surf company we took lessons with. If you’re trying to get a cute Insta pic or just feel comfortable in your own- buy one before you go! The rash guards are also very important for protection from the sun since it is SUPER hot. We got sunburn within the first two hours of our morning on the beach.
Leggings- Lululemon Align Dupe Amazon Leggings
I almost didn’t pack a pair of leggings but at the last minute stuck them in my bag. I am glad that I did because in locations like Monteverde the cooler temperatures made it much more comfortable. I also like to rock leggings as my travel outfit because I always get cold on the plane. I was especially happy I had them for when we went zip lining for protection on my legs. I wore a pair of Lululemon but have linked a dupe pair that have amazing reviews.
Travel towel- Sand Cloud Beach Towel
There were many times during this trip where we needed a dry towel. Due to the humidity, it is difficult for towels to dry out in your room so it’s helpful to have an extra one on you if possible. The Sand Cloud Towel is perfect because it is soft, it travels well, and it repels sand.
Sunscreen- Sun Bum
No ifs ands or buts, sunscreen is a MUST! The sun is so hot down there so you need to apply frequently and stay on top of it or else you will burn. Sub Bum is a favorite and I love the smell.
Bug spray- Travel Bug Spray Wal Mart
Another MUST is bug spray. We did not buy it ahead of time and had to buy some once we got to La Fortuna. If you can, buy some before you travel so that you can get a safer option without deet. Especially if you are out at night, bug spray is necessary.
Go pro- Go Pro Hero 10 Amazon
Backpack (daypack)- North Face Women’s Recon Backpack
A daypack is a must when you’re going on tours. You need a way to carry things like water, snacks, your bathing suit, a towel, change of clothes, wallet, room key and phone! Even if you are only going off for an hour or so, you definitely want to have water with you especially if you are in Manuel Antonio national park where it is much hotter!
Waterproof Phone Case- Hiearcool Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch
The waterproof phone case is something like the Go Pro that you want to have to capture photos in those moments where you’ll be around water. In Costa Rica, there is so much of it! It is perfect to capture in the moments you’re exploring a hot springs, a swim up bar, or even surfing in the ocean!
