Do I need a hard-shell suitcase?

No. Avoid wheels. Between cobblestone streets, dirt roads, and chicken buses, a backpack is the only way to stay mobile.

Should I bring boots or sandals?

Bring one pair of versatile trail runners for hiking and one pair of supportive adventure sandals. You rarely need heavy hiking boots unless you are doing technical volcano summits.

Is it worth bringing a sleeping bag?

No. A silk or cotton sleeping bag liner is sufficient for cool mountain hostels and keeps your bedding sanitary.

Solo backpacking in Central America: A functional packing guide

Pack a 40-50 liter internal frame backpack and prioritize moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics over cotton to handle tropical humidity. Keep your total pack weight under 25 pounds (11kg) to ensure you can carry it comfortably during transit and across uneven terrain.

Select the right bag. Use a 40L-50L backpack that opens like a suitcase (clamshell) rather than a top-loader. This makes it easier to organize items without dumping your bag out in a hostel dorm.
Use packing cubes. Group clothes by category (tops, bottoms, undergarments). This compresses items and keeps your bag organized in humid environments where clothes can get damp or musty.
Apply the 'one week' rule. Pack enough clothes for exactly 7 days. Laundry services are available in every town in Central America; pay by the pound ($2-$5) and drop your clothes off in the morning to pick up by evening.
Secure your electronics. Bring a dry bag for electronics. Humidity and sudden tropical downpours are constant risks; a 10L roll-top dry bag protects your camera and phone during boat transfers or jungle hikes.

Do I need a hard-shell suitcase?: No. Avoid wheels. Between cobblestone streets, dirt roads, and chicken buses, a backpack is the only way to stay mobile.
Should I bring boots or sandals?: Bring one pair of versatile trail runners for hiking and one pair of supportive adventure sandals. You rarely need heavy hiking boots unless you are doing technical volcano summits.
Is it worth bringing a sleeping bag?: No. A silk or cotton sleeping bag liner is sufficient for cool mountain hostels and keeps your bedding sanitary.