WHAT TO BRING

When contemplating what to bring to Costa Rica be sure to read over the included “weather” section, since there are many microclimates that vary according to geographical locations. However, being a tropical nation, extremely cold temperatures are never present. For the Central Valley and some other high altitude places, such as Monteverde, it is suggested to have a sweater or a jacket as the evenings tend to be chilly and, in cases like Monteverde, the days, too. In the coastal areas, very light clothes are a definite must. Remember that you will need outfits suitable for attending classes (informal), hiking, going to the beach, and for going out in the evenings.

The following will give you an idea of a suitable wardrobe, but this will vary according to your activities while in Costa Rica:

• Two pairs of very comfortable shoes (one of them sandals).
• One pair of formal shoes for such occasions.
• Socks / stockings.
• Light cotton pants / jeans / skirts / shorts.
• T-shirts (one of them with long sleeves).
• Shirts / blouses / tank tops.
• Nightwear (for cool and warm weather).
• Swimsuit / beach wear.
• Raingear (raincoat and boots / galoshes).
• One dressy outfit.
• Several lightweight wool or cotton sweaters / jackets.

Other suggested items to bring:

• Good sunglasses
• Sunscreen *
• Insect repellent *
• Beachtowel
• Money pouch
• Umbrella (depending on season) *
• Hat / cap *
• Binoculars
• Pocket alarm clock
• Pocket calculator
• First aid kit (band aids, disinfectant, etc)
• Camera
• Spanish / English dictionary

·*Can be easily acquired in Costa Rica

Dressing in Costa Rica

The Costa Rican people are very diverse when it comes to clothing, yet, usually they are not as casual as other cultures in their dress. They tend to dress up to go out in the evenings or even to go to San José. Very provocative or very informal wear may attract negative or unwanted looks or comments. Shorts, jeans, t-shirts, tennis shoes, etc, are all acceptable for foreigners in the eyes of the locals, but just be conscious of the place you are in and whether your clothing is appropriate (i.e. jeans at a formal event aren’t necessarily proper).

Toilet Articles

Most of these can be found at any pharmacy or supermarket in Costa Rica. Toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary napkins, q-tips, razor blades, soap, insect repellent, and other such items are of good quality and decent price. If you are accustomed to a certain brand (such as of shampoo, shaving cream or skin lotion), be sure to bring enough for your stay as these may not be available. Items such as tampons, cosmetics and hair styling products have exorbitant prices and sometimes are hard to come by.

Medication

If you are taking any medication, be sure to have a full supply with you, to bring your prescription, and to have a doctor’s note in case of emergency. Aspirin, acetaminophen, cold medicine, anti-itch ointment, and other commonly used pharmaceutical products are easily available at drug stores or supermarkets. For women: if you are on a contraceptive method, such as the birth control pill or diaphragm, come fully equipped.

Photographic Equipment

For both experts and beginners, Costa Rica is a photographic paradise. Photographic equipment should be closely guarded as it is a temptation to thieves. Foreigners are only allowed to bring two cameras into the country.

Music

An IPOD or a small radio can provide hours of entertainment on long bus rides or be used as a way to enjoy the true local spirit (i.e. Salsa, Cumbia, Merengue, etc). There are many radio stations that program rock & roll, classical, latin, or easy listening music. Electronics can be very sensitive to climatic or temperature changes, such as humidity or heat. Try to keep them in a stable environment and carry them in a proper case.