Don't Miss a Thing: Packing Tips for Your Next Trip to Costa Rica

Delayed flights, mechanical issues, road accidents, natural disasters… Any traveler knows that trips are subject to unpredictable factors beyond our control. But if there's one thing we can control, aside from having a valid passport, it's what we pack—or don't—on our journey. In other words, the luggage you carry with you on your trip.

What can’t you live without? What’s expendable? And what doesn’t make a difference if you bring it or not? These questions run through our minds every time we prepare—hopefully ahead of time—to pack our bags.

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica soon, we’d like to share some smart packing tips to make the most of your stay, considering the time of year and the destinations you plan to visit.

Take note and let us help you pack to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Appropriate Clothing and Footwear

The first rule of packing is to consider the time of year and the destinations you'll visit in Costa Rica. If your trip is during the dry season (December to April), and your main destinations are beaches like Tamarindo or Puerto Viejo, keep in mind that temperatures are usually warm, and rainfall is scarce.

In this case, opt for light clothing like t-shirts, shorts, breezy dresses, and, of course, a swimsuit. Don’t forget a beach towel and a waterproof bag for your belongings.

For mountain destinations like Monteverde or Arenal Volcano, bring lightweight, warm clothing, as temperatures tend to be cooler at higher elevations.

During the rainy season (May to November), showers are more frequent, but this shouldn’t discourage you. Pack a raincoat or a water-resistant jacket, along with quick-drying clothes. If you plan to hike trails or explore the jungle, bring sturdy and comfortable footwear, such as hiking boots or waterproof sneakers.

In San José and other cities, casual attire is acceptable. Bring comfortable clothing for walking and exploring, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

However, to be on the safe side, we suggest not relying too much on weather forecasts. The weather in Costa Rica can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s not unusual to get caught in a downpour during the summer or vice versa. It’s better to pack versatile or multifunctional garments.

Essential Accessories and Items

Beyond clothing, there are a few must-have items for your suitcase when traveling to Costa Rica. A good insect repellent is essential, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors in areas like national parks. It’s also advisable to bring high-SPF sunscreen, as the sun in Costa Rica can be very intense, even on cloudy days.

Pack a pair of sunglasses, a cap, or a hat and if you wear glasses or contact lenses, be sure to bring a spare pair.

For those planning to enjoy the beaches or engage in water activities, bring water shoes or sandals. And speaking of water, always stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle. Many areas in Costa Rica have potable water, so you can easily refill it.

Pack Light, But Pack the Essentials

While it’s tempting to overpack “just in case,” we recommend traveling as light as possible. Costa Rica is a country where nature and adventure take center stage, and carrying too much luggage can be a hassle.

Besides, it’s a destination where you can find almost anything, from clothing stores to well-stocked pharmacies and supermarkets.

On the other hand, if you’re traveling with Hertz, you won’t have to worry about space. We have the most complete and modern rental car fleet in Costa Rica, perfect for carrying everything you need for your trip.

Whether you require an SUV for off-road adventures or a comfortable sedan for city tours, Hertz is your car rental agency in Costa Rica with the perfect vehicle for your journey.

Our Branches and Convenience for Travelers

At Hertz Costa Rica, we understand that comfort and accessibility are key for our customers. That’s why we have several branches strategically located across the country. You can find us in Alajuela, Paseo Colón (San José), Uvita, Jacó, and, of course, at the Juan Santamaría and Daniel Oduber international airports in Liberia.

Look for the nearest Hertz rental car location and visit us. Renting a vehicle in Costa Rica doesn’t have to be a hassle. Our goal is to make picking up and dropping off your rental car easy and seamless.

Conclusion

Packing for a trip to Costa Rica can be simple and stress-free. With a little planning and considering the weather and activities you’ll be doing, you can travel light without sacrificing the essentials.

There’s nothing like traveling with peace of mind, knowing all was planned in advance, including the Hertz rental car you’ll be driving during your stay. Reserve yours now, here, and let the adventure begin. See you in Costa Rica!

José Ricardo Carballo Villalobos

Works as a journalist, blogger, writer, and freelance copywriter. He is a frequent press columnist, co-director of the digital media La Revista CR, and administrator of the current affairs blog: analistahoy.com. For more information about the author, visit his website or Facebook.

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