Should I pack waterproof or water-resistant gear?

Water-resistant with good ventilation. True waterproof gear doesn't breathe and you'll be soaked in sweat within minutes in 90°F humid weather.

How many clothes should I bring for 3 weeks?

Pack for 5-7 days max, then do laundry. Bring 4-5 shirts, 2-3 pairs of pants/shorts, and underwear for a week. Laundry is cheap and available everywhere.

Do I need bug spray and what kind?

Yes, 20-30% DEET minimum. Mosquitoes carry dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Pack enough for your first few days, then buy locally—it's cheaper and stronger.

Can I buy outdoor gear in Central America?

Quality gear is expensive and limited. Buy your rain jacket, hiking boots, and technical clothes before you go. Basic items like umbrellas and cotton clothes are widely available.

What to Pack for Central America Weather

Pack for hot, humid weather with a strong rainy season from May to October. Bring quick-dry clothes, a good rain jacket, and layers for cooler highland areas. The key is lightweight, versatile pieces that handle heat, humidity, and sudden downpours.

Check the specific season you're traveling. Dry season (November-April) means hot days with little rain. Rainy season (May-October) brings daily afternoon storms and higher humidity. Plan your packing around this—rainy season needs more waterproof gear.
Pack moisture-wicking base layers. Synthetic fabrics or merino wool dry fast and don't hold odors. Cotton stays wet and smells. Pack 4-5 quick-dry t-shirts and 2-3 pairs of synthetic or merino underwear. You'll sweat constantly in 85-90°F heat with 80% humidity.
Bring proper rain protection. A packable rain jacket that breathes (like Patagonia Houdini or similar). Skip ponchos—they're useless in wind. Add a small umbrella for walking around towns during daily rainstorms.
Pack for elevation changes. Bring one warm layer for highland areas. Guatemalan highlands, Costa Rican mountains, and Nicaraguan volcanoes can drop to 50-60°F at night. A fleece or light down jacket works.
Choose the right footwear. Hiking boots that drain water (not waterproof—they'll never dry). Flip-flops or water shoes for beaches and hostels. Everything gets wet and muddy. Leather shoes will grow mold.
Add sun protection essentials. The sun is intense year-round. SPF 50 sunscreen (reapply constantly), a wide-brimmed hat that won't blow off, and sunglasses. You're close to the equator with little atmospheric protection.

Should I pack waterproof or water-resistant gear?: Water-resistant with good ventilation. True waterproof gear doesn't breathe and you'll be soaked in sweat within minutes in 90°F humid weather.
How many clothes should I bring for 3 weeks?: Pack for 5-7 days max, then do laundry. Bring 4-5 shirts, 2-3 pairs of pants/shorts, and underwear for a week. Laundry is cheap and available everywhere.
Do I need bug spray and what kind?: Yes, 20-30% DEET minimum. Mosquitoes carry dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Pack enough for your first few days, then buy locally—it's cheaper and stronger.
Can I buy outdoor gear in Central America?: Quality gear is expensive and limited. Buy your rain jacket, hiking boots, and technical clothes before you go. Basic items like umbrellas and cotton clothes are widely available.