Will my clothes mold in my suitcase?

Yes, if they are damp. Always hang wet clothes up immediately, and use silica gel packets in your packing cubes to pull moisture away from your dry items.

Do I really need an umbrella?

No. The wind during tropical storms often renders umbrellas useless. Stick to a high-quality rain jacket.

What is the best way to keep my phone dry?

Keep it in a dedicated dry bag or a high-quality waterproof phone pouch whenever you are outside, even if it isn't currently raining.

Packing for Central America During the Rainy Season

Focus on moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics, high-quality waterproof gear, and dry bags for your electronics. You need to prioritize gear that dries overnight, as humidity levels hover around 80-90% during the rainy season.

Select the right rain shell. Avoid cheap plastic ponchos that trap heat. Invest in a breathable, seam-sealed rain jacket with underarm vents. It should have a durable water repellent (DWR) coating.
Use dry bags. Pack a 10L or 20L dry bag for your electronics, passport, and extra socks. Even inside a 'water-resistant' backpack, heavy tropical downpours can soak your gear within minutes.
Optimize your footwear. Bring one pair of closed-toe water shoes or quick-dry trail runners with aggressive tread. Leave heavy leather hiking boots at home; they will get wet and stay wet for the duration of your trip.
Choose the right base layers. Only pack synthetic or merino wool clothing. Cotton will never dry in the humidity and will become heavy and prone to mold if kept in a dark bag.

Will my clothes mold in my suitcase?: Yes, if they are damp. Always hang wet clothes up immediately, and use silica gel packets in your packing cubes to pull moisture away from your dry items.
Do I really need an umbrella?: No. The wind during tropical storms often renders umbrellas useless. Stick to a high-quality rain jacket.
What is the best way to keep my phone dry?: Keep it in a dedicated dry bag or a high-quality waterproof phone pouch whenever you are outside, even if it isn't currently raining.