Suggesting an all-around packing list for Costa Rica can be challenging to say the least! One traveler may be visiting a single all inclusive resort during the dry season and the next could be going on a real Costa Rica adventure, passing through several climate zones. Given all of the variables, we have compiled a list of the most common items for you to consider while packing for your Costa Rica vacation.
When considering what to pack for Costa Rica, you should not lose sight of the fact that there are many unique climate zones throughout the country. You will have to pack accordingly as weather can change significantly from zone to zone.
Beach and lowland coastal areas are generally hot during the day with daytime averages in the mid-80s to mid-90s and nighttime temperatures in the mid-70s to lower 80s. The Northwest Pacific coast enjoys mostly dry weather from November through August with longer lasting rains during the months of September and October. The South Pacific coast enjoys the driest weather from December through April, good weather through the end of July and then the rains hit hard from August through the end of November. The Caribbean side has a fairly inconsistent rain season, but enjoys the best weather in September and October.
Inland destinations such as Arenal Volcano, Rio Celeste, Sarapiqui, Poas, Turrialba and Pacuare are a little cooler with daytime temps usually around the low 70s to mid-80s and overnight temperatures in the mid-60s to upper 70s. The weather in these areas can be fairly unpredictable in terms of rain, but generally the drier months are January through Mid-August.
Cloud forest destinations such as Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota can be a bit cooler with daytime temps in the low to mid-70s and nighttime temps in the low 60s. Anyone visiting a cloud forest destination should be prepared for rain at any given time of the year.
*Packing Tip: Rolled clothing condenses better than folded clothing.
So there you have it… Everybody has their own styles and plans, so use this as it is intended; a general packing list for Costa Rica. Take the ideas that apply to you and leave the rest. If you have any suggestions for our list, please send them for consideration.
When considering what to pack for Costa Rica, you should not lose sight of the fact that there are many unique climate zones throughout the country. You will have to pack accordingly as weather can change significantly from zone to zone.
Beach and lowland coastal areas are generally hot during the day with daytime averages in the mid-80s to mid-90s and nighttime temperatures in the mid-70s to lower 80s. The Northwest Pacific coast enjoys mostly dry weather from November through August with longer lasting rains during the months of September and October. The South Pacific coast enjoys the driest weather from December through April, good weather through the end of July and then the rains hit hard from August through the end of November. The Caribbean side has a fairly inconsistent rain season, but enjoys the best weather in September and October.
Inland destinations such as Arenal Volcano, Rio Celeste, Sarapiqui, Poas, Turrialba and Pacuare are a little cooler with daytime temps usually around the low 70s to mid-80s and overnight temperatures in the mid-60s to upper 70s. The weather in these areas can be fairly unpredictable in terms of rain, but generally the drier months are January through Mid-August.
Cloud forest destinations such as Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota can be a bit cooler with daytime temps in the low to mid-70s and nighttime temps in the low 60s. Anyone visiting a cloud forest destination should be prepared for rain at any given time of the year.
*Packing Tip: Rolled clothing condenses better than folded clothing.
So there you have it… Everybody has their own styles and plans, so use this as it is intended; a general packing list for Costa Rica. Take the ideas that apply to you and leave the rest. If you have any suggestions for our list, please send them for consideration.
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