Costa Rica Packing List for Women: Adventures in Every Season

What to Pack in Your Personal Item

Whether you’re flying carry-on only or simply want peace of mind if your checked bag is delayed, your carry-on should cover the essentials for the first 24–48 hours. I always recommend packing strategically; you’ll be glad you did if your luggage takes the scenic route (ask me how I know).

Important Travel Documents

I recommend having backups of your passport, flight details, hotel info, car rental, and tour confirmations, and travel insurance details just in case your phone dies or you lose access to cell signal which happens a lot.

Keep these in your personal item, not your suitcase. You’ll need quick access to them during travel and at immigration. You’ll also want to pack:

• Credit/debit cards – bring more than one in case one fails (but not all of them)
• Some cash – a mix of crisp USD and colones is helpful
• Driver’s license – your regular license is valid in Costa Rica (as long as it uses the Roman alphabet and is valid through your trip); no international permit required. Bring your passport with visa stamp when driving.

Prescription Medications

Bring enough to last your full trip; you can’t refill your prescriptions in Costa Rica. All meds must be in their original packaging with clear labels. It’s a good idea to pack extras in case of travel delays, and never pack necessary meds in a checked bag.

Tip: If you have to check your carry-on due to lack of space, REMOVE MEDS and put in your personal item. You never want to be without access to medication, which is why I recommend packing them in your personal item to begin with.

Pack a Sleep Kit

I’ve learned that creating a familiar bedtime routine, even on the road, makes falling asleep in new places much easier. Whether I’m on a red-eye flight or in a hotel downtown during a festival, having the same setup helps me unwind and rest.

I always bring a sleep kit with me:

• Eye mask
• Earplugs – I use Loops
• White noise app or portable machine

What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag

Costa Rica may be small, but its landscapes range from humid rainforests to cool cloud forests and sunny beaches. Understanding what makes Costa Rica unique helps explain why packing for this country can be a little different than other tropical destinations.

This part of your luggage holds the gear you’ll be glad you have on hand as soon as you land. I always recommend including your first outfit and anything you’d be frustrated to lose or wait on. 

Quality gear, clothes, and personal care items are pricier in Costa Rica in my experience, if you can find them at all, so don’t plan to buy them there.

Sun Protection: Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen

You are traveling to the tropics, and sun protection is key, especially in the mountains or out on the water. 

A bucket hat or baseball cap helps keep you cool and shaded, and polarized sunglasses cut the glare whether you’re on a boat or walking the beach. 

Sunscreen is surprisingly expensive in Costa Rica, especially the reef-safe kind required for many water activities. I always bring a small bottle of biodegradable sunscreen with me to avoid paying double and to protect the delicate marine ecosystems I came to see.

Basic First Aid Kit

A few basics can save you a pharmacy run in an unfamiliar town (in Spanish!).

• Band-aids
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Benadryl or antihistamines
• Electrolyte or rehydration packets (tropical sun!!)
• Motion sickness tablets (roads will be winding)

I’ve forgotten these before… don’t recommend it 

Change of Clothes + Swimsuit

Always pack at least one change of clothes and a swimsuit in your carry-on. If your checked bag is delayed in transit, you’ll be so glad to have something fresh to put on and a swimsuit ready for the hot springs or beach.

Flip-flops or slides take up almost no space and are great to slip into once you’re off the plane.

What’s in My Checked Bag: My Costa Rica Packing List for Women

Clothing: What to Wear in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s climate can shift dramatically in a single day. You might wake up in a misty cloud forest, spend the afternoon in humid jungle heat, and end the day watching the sun set from a breezy mountain lodge.

Because of this, layers and quick-dry fabrics are key. I pack with comfort in mind first – lightweight, breathable items that can handle sweat, rain, and adventure.

You’ll want a fresh top and bottom for each day unless you plan to do laundry mid-trip. Between the humidity, heat, and bug spray, you’ll likely shower and change daily, sometimes more than once.

From jungle hikes to waterfalls and wildlife tours, many of the best things to do in Costa Rica involve being outdoors and getting a little wet one way or the other.

Choose natural fibers like linen and merino wool or moisture-wicking synthetics. Merino wool is my go-to for tops and underlayers because it stays comfortable even when damp, dries fast, doesn’t cling when you sweat, and—blessing of blessings—doesn’t hold odor like cotton. You can even re-wear it in a pinch. Cotton, on the other hand, tends to stay soggy and clingy in the worst way.

Tops, Sun Shirts, and Sweaters

Pack breathable or sweat-wicking shirts (tanks or tees). Look for fabrics that dry fast and resist odor, and bring 1-2 more than you think you need in case you have to change mid-day.

Include 1–2 long-sleeve layers – UPF sun shirts or lightweight merino – for when you need protection from sun or bugs. These are also great for breezy mornings and evenings or higher elevations.

If your trip includes cloud forests or cool evenings in places like Monteverde or San Gerardo de Dota, add a light fleece or sweatshirt to your list.

Costa Rica is casual almost everywhere, but I still like to pack one or two nicer outfits I feel good in for dinners, cafes, or photos. A flowy dress, a romper, or a nice top with hemp or linen pants works well.

Bottoms: Shorts, Pants, and Leggings

Bring enough pairs of hiking or athletic shorts that you can wear on the trail or around town, plus an extra pair or two. I like the bright and colorful matching sets made from recycled plastic bottles at Girlfriend Collective, and the cute athletic skorts from Popflex.

Pack at least one pair of lightweight hiking pants, especially if you’ll be hiking in dense forest or traveling during the rainy season. Convertible pants are super practical for sudden weather shifts or mosquito-prone areas.

I’ve had great luck with brands like REI and Patagonia, and Eddie Bauer has solid options for my plus-size girlies.

Leggings are another staple for me. They’re great for long drives, chill evenings, or the plane ride. They’re easy to dress up or down and double as pajama bottoms if needed.

Swimwear, Intimates, and Sleepwear

Between hikes, humidity, and spontaneous swims, you’ll want sweat-wicking underwear that holds up to all of it. I use ExOfficio quick-dry undies and Branwyn merino wool bras. Both are breathable, odor-resistant, and dry fast.

For socks, pack a few pairs of merino wool or synthetic hiking socks that won’t stay wet and heavy. Cotton for socks is not recommended here; trust me.

I recommend bringing at least two swimsuits for two reasons. You’ll want one to wear while the other is drying, and you’ll also want something cute for the beach plus one that’s more secure for water activities. I love Youswim and Londre Bodywear for sustainable, body-friendly suits.

A swimsuit cover-up or two will help you transition between activities and keep your clothes dry in transit.

Bring lightweight sleepwear that’s comfortable in warm, possibly humid nights. I skip anything heavy or clingy. 

If you’re traveling for longer than a week, consider doing laundry. Many hotels offer laundry service, or you can stop by a local lavandería to refresh your wardrobe halfway through.

Just please don’t wash your clothes in the sink. Get one of these before you do something like that.

Footwear: Boots and Sandals

Footwear can make or break your experience in Costa Rica, especially if you’re planning for outdoor adventures. I typically bring four pairs: one trail-ready, closed-toe shoe; a sturdy sandal for mixed terrain and water; flip-flops for the beach or showers, and a nicer shoe for dinner or in town.

Trails like hiking to Rio Celeste can get muddy even during the dry season, which is why I recommend bringing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip.

On a visit to an Indigenous reserve in January, I regretted not having mine; the trail was still muddy and slick, despite it being “dry season.” A solid, waterproof boot gives you grip, protection from roots and rocks, and dry feet in rainforest conditions. 

Sometimes you can get away without this and just rent rubber boots like in Corcovado or Tamarindo National Parks, but I prefer to be prepared.

For lighter hikes and waterfall trails, hiking sandals can be a great option, especially the closed-toe kind like Keens. They’re breathable and quick to dry, ideal for areas where you’ll get wet or muddy. That said, I personally prefer Tevas for the look and feel. Just be sure to get a model with real traction, like the Teva Hurricanes, not the slide-on versions with smooth soles.

If you’re sticking to dry-season travel and doing mostly paved or well-marked trails, lightweight walking shoes might be enough. Just be mindful that even “easy” trails can turn muddy fast, particularly in cloud forests or after a quick rain shower.

Some also recommend water shoes. Some beaches and riverbanks are rocky, and having something with grip and foot protection makes a huge difference.

I don’t use watershoes and stick to my Teva sandals, but I see them recommended often. If you’re headed to places like Nauyaca Waterfall, where you can swim in the waterfall, or Drake Bay, where boat landings require walking directly into the surf, these will come in handy. 

Toiletries

Most hotels and ecolodges in Costa Rica will provide basics like shampoo or soap, but not always what I prefer, and not always conditioner. I pack a few essentials just in case, especially if I’ll be in more remote areas or want to avoid using single-use plastics.

I also lean toward biodegradable products when possible, as gray water is less treated in Costa Rica.

Rainy Season vs. Dry Season: What to Pack for Each

While there is no best time to visit Costa Rica, there are two main seasons: dry (December–April) and rainy (May–November), but the shift isn’t always clear-cut. Even in the “dry” months, I’ve hiked through thick mud in January and woken up to downpours in the mountains in December. Weather can change fast depending on region, elevation, or time of day.

In the dry season, you’ll likely have lots of sun, especially on the Pacific Coast. It’s easier to pack light. Clothes dry quickly, and you’re less likely to get caught in a storm. Still, I always bring a lightweight rain jacket and a daypack with a rain cover. Especially in areas like Monteverde or the Central Valley, it can downpour out of nowhere.

During the rainy season, afternoon showers are common, and trail conditions get muddy fast. Prioritize waterproof layers, water-friendly footwear, and a rain cover for your bag. If you’re heading to places like Tortuguero in the Caribbean, or Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula, expect moisture even in shoulder months.

Musts for Any Season:

• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho – I prefer packable jackets with underarm vents so you don’t feel like you’re hiking in a sauna. Ponchos work, but I like the fit and breathability of a good jacket.
• Daypack + rain cover – Essential for day hikes, boat tours, and beach days. If your backpack doesn’t include one, add a separate cover. A soggy pack is no one’s idea of fun.

Optional But Smart Extras for Costa Rica Travel

These items aren’t required, but they can seriously enhance your experience if you’re heading into nature, remote areas, or joining guided tours. I’ve grouped them based on how I tend to pack and use them.

Nature & Adventure Gear

• Binoculars – All tour guides will have scopes, but if you’re into birding or want to spot wildlife from a distance on your own, a lightweight pair is a great add-on. 
• Birding and wildlife field guides – If you like to ID what you see, bring a copy before you go; they’re often more expensive in Costa Rica (I paid $44 for a book that’s printed as $29.95 on the cover). 
• Dry bag – Keeps your gear safe during boat tours, kayaking, or waterfall hikes, and can be an option to bring your items with you at the beach in a pinch (don’t leave anything unattended at the beach!)
• Flashlight or headlamp with red light – Essential for night walks; red light is better for wildlife and helps your eyes adjust in the dark.
• Microfiber towel – Packs small, dries fast, useful for swimming, sweat, or spontaneous picnics.
• Personal snorkel mask – all tours include, but helpful if you want a better fit or have an eyewear prescription mask.
• Sunglasses strap – Keeps your shades from flying off on boat rides (needed this after snorkeling in Drake Bay lol)

Safety + Security Items

Costa Rica is a friendly and welcoming country, and I’ve traveled solo, with friends, and in small groups without issue. That said, petty theft and car break-ins do happen, especially if it’s obvious there’s something to take. I cover common precautions and travel tips in my full guide to safety in Costa Rica.

A few simple precautions can help protect your belongings and your peace of mind.

• Locks – I saw this tip recently and think it’s clever: use a small bike lock to secure bags in rental cars, and always lock your luggage in transit or when leaving it behind. It won’t stop a determined thief, but it can act as a deterrent against opportunistic ones.
• I also recommend checking in advance that your accommodations have in-room safes and actually using them for valuables, passports, and electronics when you go out.
• AirTags or Bluetooth trackers – I now keep AirTags hidden in all my bags. They help track luggage if it’s lost in transit or accidentally left behind.
• Travel safe bags, money belts, RFID wallets – I don’t personally use these, but they’re good options if you’re concerned about pickpocketing or want extra peace of mind in busy areas or on buses.
• Portable door lock – A great tool for solo female travelers or anyone staying in budget lodges, guesthouses, or Airbnbs. It gives an extra layer of security when a lock doesn’t feel sufficient. (only works from the inside)
• Allergy card – If you have severe food allergies, bring a translated card that explains your dietary needs clearly. While most tourist areas widely speak Spanish, this can help avoid any miscommunications.
• Face mask for the plane – I still wear a mask during flights. Airplanes are dry and germy, and staying healthy on day one is always the goal. N95 is best, otherwise use a surgical mask. Reusable cloth masks don’t really make a difference.
• Travel insurance – I always travel with insurance in case of injury, illness, or unexpected cancellations. I recommend SafetyWing because it’s affordable, reliable, and easy to set up. You can even register after you arrive.

Travel Tech + Smart Essentials

• Power bank + charging cable – If you’re out all day using maps, data, and your camera, your battery won’t last
• Waterproof phone pouch or case – Whether you’re at the beach, on a boat, or hiking in the rain, your phone is going to be exposed to water. 
• Phone charger – Always pack a dedicated wall charger. I recommend one with multiple ports so you can charge a power bank and phone at the same time.
• eSIM – Airalo eSIM is easy to get connected the moment I land. While my phone plan includes international service, the data is limited and using Airalo means I don’t have to worry about my data being throttled while traveling for more than a few days.
• Camera + charger + memory cards – If you want higher quality photos than your phone can offer, bring a camera and a few extra SD cards. A charger with a universal USB plug is helpful in case you need to recharge on the go.
• GoPro or action camera + waterproof case – Great for ziplining, snorkeling, or waterfall swims, just don’t flood it like I did (RIP action cam)
• Universal outlet adapter – Costa Rica uses 110V with standard US-style plugs. If you’re coming from outside North America, bring an adapter to match your device.

Misc. Handy Items

• Spanish phrase list – If you want to connect with locals, learning a few Costa Rican slang and phrases before your trip can make conversations much easier.
• Travel guidebook – On my most recent trip, I used the newly released Lonely Planet Costa Rica guide and found it extremely helpful, especially for regional overviews and off-the-beaten-path ideas. I also contributed an essay to the Central America edition guidebook that just came out, which still feels surreal to say.
• Notebook and pen – Go analogue and jot down place names, favorite meals, trail details, or little memories
• Lightweight umbrella – Great for those hot, muggy afternoons when it starts to rain but you definitely don’t want to put on a jacket.
• Ziplock bags or dry pouches – These always come in handy for muddy shoes, wet swimsuits, snacks, or protecting electronics in your daypack.
• Laundry line and travel detergent – If you’re trying to pack light or staying more than a week, doing your own laundry gives you more flexibility. Some hotels also offer laundry service, but these are great in a pinch!
• Small gifts or thank-you items – Thoughtful if you’re staying in locally-owned guesthouses or meeting up with local hosts. A small item from your home region can go a long way.
• Reading light – Not all hotels have bedside lamps, and I like having a soft light for reading in the evening.

What to Leave at Home

Costa Rica is a humid, natural, active place. You’ll likely find that comfort and simplicity beat style for most of your trip.

• Nice jewelry – You’ll spend most of your time hiking, swimming, or sweating. Leave valuable or sentimental pieces at home so you don’t lose or damage them.
• Designer clothing or accessories – Flashy items can make you a target in tourist areas and aren’t practical for the climate. Think breathable and low-maintenance instead.
• Hair styling tools and products – Unless you’re attending a wedding or event, there’s no need to pack curling irons, sprays, or heat tools. The humidity will win anyway, and you’ll likely be showering frequently.
• Makeup – I usually end up not wearing any. Mascara runs, foundation melts, and it’s just not worth the effort when you’re out adventuring in the tropics. If you like a little something, keep it minimal.
• Perfume – only if going to a fancy dinner
• Denim – Heavy, slow to dry, and not ideal for humid or wet environments. Unless you plan to wear jeans in a cooler place like Monteverde or San José in the evenings, they’re better left behind.

Bonus: the less you pack, the more room you’ll have for coffee, salsa Lizano, and locally made artisan goods to bring home.

Sustainable Travel Swaps

• Reef-safe sunscreen – Conventional sunscreen damages coral reefs and natural hot springs. Costa Rica requires biodegradable options in many ecotourism areas. I always bring a reef-safe formula without oxybenzone or octinoxate like Sun Bum and Blue Lizard to help protect the ecosystems I’m there to enjoy.
• Reusable water bottle – Tap water is clean and safe to drink across most of the country, as I explain in my guide to safety in Costa Rica. It’s lightweight and helps avoid plastic bottles in areas with limited recycling. If you’re heading to rural areas like Drake Bay or the Caribbean coast, I recommend bringing a filtered bottle like the Lifestraw Go.
• Tote bag or packable day bag – With Costa Rica’s national ban on single-use plastics now in effect, plastic bags are no longer available at shops or lodges. A foldable tote bag makes grocery runs, beach trips, and market shopping way more convenient.
• Reusable straw – Since most hotels and restaurants now provide only biodegradable straws, bringing your own reusable straw (like stainless steel or silicone) is a simple swap if that’s your preference.
• Reusable napkins or cloths – These are surprisingly handy for roadside snacks, picnic stops, or long travel days. Easy to rinse out and reuse, they cut down on paper waste without taking up space.
• Shampoo and conditioner bars – I’ve tried a lot of brands, and Ethique is the only one that leaves my hair soft and clean without the plastic. It’s small, leak-proof, and easy to toss in a carry-on. Plus, in remote areas where hotels might only offer an all-in-one body wash, it’s nice to have something that actually works.
• Refillable travel-size bottles – Fill these with your go-to products before you leave. Look for BPA-free, leak-proof designs you can use again and again.
• Sarong or Turkish towel – I picked up this tip at a hotel in Drake Bay, where the staff shared that sarongs take up less space in laundry machines and reduce water waste. They’re also super versatile – use one as a towel, beach wrap, scarf, etc – and you’ll find beautiful ones for sale at artisan markets around the country.

Ready to Pack For Your Trip?

Packing for Costa Rica doesn’t have to be stressful or overcomplicated. With the right gear and a little preparation, you can feel confident, comfortable, and focused on the real reason you’re going: to explore, relax, and enjoy pura vida.

Whether you’re headed to the jungle, coast, or cloud forests, this list has been refined over years of trial, error, and sweaty suitcase digging. I’ve forgotten things, overpacked, and figured out what actually works along the way so you don’t have to.

To make packing even easier, I’m creating a free printable Costa Rica packing checklist with everything from this guide, organized by section so you can check items off as you go. You’ll get:

• A full gear and clothing breakdown
• Seasonal considerations
• Optional gear suggestions
• Sustainable swaps and safety tips

Sign up here to get the download right in your inbox:

When you sign up, you’ll also be the first to know when my Costa Rica travel ebook launches later this year packed with destination guides, tips, and on-the-ground insight from my most recent trip across the country.

If this is your first time visiting the country, start with my complete Costa Rica travel guide to understand the regions, logistics, and travel tips before planning your trip, or check out the rest of my trip planning guides:

• The Best Things to Do in Costa Rica
• Is Costa Rica Safe?
• 7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• Costa Rica Packing List
• Renting a Car in Costa Rica + My Review of Vamos
• COMING SOON: The Ultimate Costa Rica Travel Guide Ebook