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Packing luggage for a vacation can prove difficult no matter where you’re going. In general, you’ll want to include everything you need in your day-to-day life, plus any items specific to your vacation activities.
If you’re going on vacation in Costa Rica, you’ll want to bring warm-weather clothing, swimwear, and a nice outfit or two if you plan on attending a more formal event.
In addition, you’ll need to bring identification in the form of your passport, money, any medications you take, toiletries, and any other items that your family members use every day.
Costa Rica Essentials
If you want to be prepared for anything during your Costa Rican vacation, here are some essentials that you should be sure to bring along with you.
- Flip flops: There are a lot of beaches in the area, so bringing beach-friendly shoes is a must.
- Insect repellent: The tropical Costa Rican climate makes this destination ideal for mosquitos, so bring insect repellent to protect from bug bites.
- Raincoat: It rains regularly in Costa Rica, so it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat, poncho, or waterproof jacket.
- SIM card: To use your phone in Costa Rica, you’ll need a prepaid SIM card that’s area appropriate. SIM cards are typically available for purchase at the airport, so you can buy one when you land!
- Phrasebook: There are phone apps you can use to translate English phrases to Costa Rican Spanish, but you can also use a physical phrasebook.
- First aid kit: It is always prudent to prepare for minor medical issues, and bringing a first aid kit on your trip helps you do just that. You’ll never know when you need it.
- Flashlight: The Costa Rican population doesn’t rely on lighting as much as many visitors are accustomed to. Bring a flashlight if you want to get around at night, as your path might not be well lit.
- Backpack: If you plan on taking day hikes during your trip, bringing a small backpack might make it easier to carry the belongings you need.
- Map: Road signs and directions in Costa Rica differ significantly from many other countries, so it’s a good idea to bring a map with you if you want to avoid getting lost.
- Hiking/walking shoes: Costa Rica has countless trails to explore, so if you plan to do a lot of walking, don’t forget to bring a sturdy pair of shoes.
Being prepared is the best way to ensure that your family vacation in Costa Rica is as enjoyable as possible. As such, it’s wise to create a checklist well ahead of your departure and double-check to make sure you’ve remembered everything.
