Do I need hiking boots or can I wear trail runners?

Hiking boots are essential. Costa Rica's trails are muddy, rocky, and often involve river crossings. Most luxury lodges require closed-toe shoes for night walks and canopy tours for safety reasons.

How much rain gear do I actually need?

A lot. Even in dry season, afternoon showers are common. Pack a rain jacket, rain pants, and waterproof daypack cover. Your lodge may provide ponchos, but they're basic and won't keep you dry during active adventures.

Can I buy outdoor gear in Costa Rica?

Limited selection and high prices. San José has some outdoor shops, but selection is poor compared to US/Europe and prices are 2-3x higher. Bring everything you need from home.

What's the dress code at luxury lodges?

Smart casual for dinners. Most require long pants and closed-toe shoes in dining areas. No shorts, flip-flops, or tank tops at dinner. Breakfast and lunch are usually more relaxed.

How to Pack for Luxury Adventure Travel in Costa Rica

Pack moisture-wicking layers, waterproof gear, and closed-toe shoes for activities, plus resort wear for luxury lodges. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera with extra batteries. Most luxury lodges provide robes and toiletries, so focus on technical outdoor gear.

Start with a quality rain jacket and pants. Pack a lightweight, breathable rain jacket and pants. Costa Rica's wet season runs May through November, but afternoon showers happen year-round. Look for jackets with pit zips for ventilation during humid hikes.
Pack moisture-wicking base layers. Bring 4-5 quick-dry shirts and 2-3 pairs of hiking pants or convertible pants. Avoid cotton completely - it stays wet and takes forever to dry. Merino wool or synthetic blends work best in Costa Rica's humidity.
Bring two types of footwear. Pack waterproof hiking boots for jungle trails and closed-toe water shoes for river crossings and beach activities. Many luxury lodges require closed-toe shoes for night walks and canopy tours for safety.
Add luxury lodge attire. Bring 2-3 nice casual outfits for dinners at luxury lodges. Think linen pants, cotton button-downs, and a light sweater for air-conditioned restaurants. Most upscale lodges have dress codes for evening dining.
Pack technical accessories. Include a headlamp with extra batteries, waterproof phone case, and daypack for excursions. Bring a portable charger since many jungle lodges have limited electricity hours.

Do I need hiking boots or can I wear trail runners?: Hiking boots are essential. Costa Rica's trails are muddy, rocky, and often involve river crossings. Most luxury lodges require closed-toe shoes for night walks and canopy tours for safety reasons.
How much rain gear do I actually need?: A lot. Even in dry season, afternoon showers are common. Pack a rain jacket, rain pants, and waterproof daypack cover. Your lodge may provide ponchos, but they're basic and won't keep you dry during active adventures.
Can I buy outdoor gear in Costa Rica?: Limited selection and high prices. San José has some outdoor shops, but selection is poor compared to US/Europe and prices are 2-3x higher. Bring everything you need from home.
What's the dress code at luxury lodges?: Smart casual for dinners. Most require long pants and closed-toe shoes in dining areas. No shorts, flip-flops, or tank tops at dinner. Breakfast and lunch are usually more relaxed.