Can I buy gear in Costa Rica instead of packing it?

Yes, but selection is limited and prices are 2-3x higher than home. San José has outdoor stores, but remote areas don't. Bring critical items like rain gear and boots.

How much clothes should I pack for a 2-week trip?

Pack for 5-7 days and do laundry. Most accommodations have washing services for $3-8 per load. Everything stays damp in humid areas anyway.

Do I need special vaccines or medications?

No special vaccines required, but consider hepatitis A/B and typhoid. Bring anti-diarrheal medication and pain relievers. Malaria risk is minimal in tourist areas.

Should I bring a sleeping bag?

Only for camping or budget hostels. Most accommodations provide bedding. A lightweight sleep sheet is more practical for questionable bedding situations.

How to Pack for a Costa Rica Adventure Trip

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing in layers, waterproof gear for rain, sturdy hiking boots, and reef-safe sunscreen. Bring a daypack, water purification tablets, and insect repellent with DEET. Costa Rica's climate varies dramatically by elevation and season, so prepare for both tropical heat and mountain cold.

Choose your base luggage. Bring a 65-75L backpack or duffel bag. Skip wheeled luggage - many roads are unpaved and accommodations have stairs. A 20L daypack is essential for daily adventures.
Pack for multiple climates. Pack 3-4 lightweight, quick-dry t-shirts, 2 pairs hiking pants, 1 pair shorts, and a warm fleece or puffy jacket for elevation changes. Temperatures drop 3-4°F per 1000 feet of elevation.
Waterproof everything critical. Bring a quality rain jacket and rain pants. Pack electronics and important documents in waterproof bags or dry sacks. Expect rain even in dry season - afternoon showers are common.
Choose proper footwear. Pack broken-in hiking boots with ankle support and good tread. Bring water shoes or sandals for river crossings and beach time. Skip new boots - blisters ruin adventures.
Prepare for insects and sun. Bring 30% DEET insect repellent (locals swear by it), reef-safe mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+), a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight long sleeves for mosquito protection at dawn/dusk.
Pack adventure essentials. Include a headlamp with extra batteries, water purification tablets or a filter, basic first aid kit, duct tape, zip ties, and a multi-tool. These solve common trail problems.

Can I buy gear in Costa Rica instead of packing it?: Yes, but selection is limited and prices are 2-3x higher than home. San José has outdoor stores, but remote areas don't. Bring critical items like rain gear and boots.
How much clothes should I pack for a 2-week trip?: Pack for 5-7 days and do laundry. Most accommodations have washing services for $3-8 per load. Everything stays damp in humid areas anyway.
Do I need special vaccines or medications?: No special vaccines required, but consider hepatitis A/B and typhoid. Bring anti-diarrheal medication and pain relievers. Malaria risk is minimal in tourist areas.
Should I bring a sleeping bag?: Only for camping or budget hostels. Most accommodations provide bedding. A lightweight sleep sheet is more practical for questionable bedding situations.