do this: packing essentials for a trip to Costa Rica

When we decided to head to Costa Rica for a friend’s wedding we had no idea what to expect. Usually, when we travel we do some research and try to come up with a game plan for the trip. But because we were traveling for a wedding and the destination was chosen for us we took a more relaxed approach to planning.

However, our approach may have been just a bit too easygoing because when it came time to pack I had no clue what to bring. I knew it’d be hot and humid and lush greenery and that’s about it. I did do some quick Googling but I’m also notorious for bringing way more stuff than I need. Though I tried to pare it down for this trip I did go a little overboard.

So since I am now much wiser after actually being there, here is my guide of what you should bring when traveling to Costa Rica.

Packing list to Costa Rica

1. argan daily moisturizer/sephora | 2. argan sun protection for body/josie maran | 3. doctor t’s supergoop self-tanning sunscreen mousse/barney’s | 4. sugar lip treatment chapstick/sephora | 5. off insect repellent/soap.com | 6. mini travel umbrella/amazon | 7.  bikini/topshop | 8. tori praver maxi dress/asos | 9. waterproof camera/b&h photo | 10. strappy cami/topshop, mono aztec vest/topshop | 11. map of costa rica | 12. merrell barefoot run pace glove/merrell | 13. dv by dolce vita agnyss flat sandals/macys | 14. panama hat/j.crew | 15. running shorts/gap | 16. backpack/target | 17. black clean front shorts/gapThough I brought many outfits I found myself gravitating to my bathing suits and cover ups the whole trip. When we would go on hikes or ziplining I brought sneakers and athletic gear. And of course a versatile swimsuit that you could lay out in but also participate in water activities like snorkeling or parasailing is another great item to pack.

Waterproof cameras were essential since it rains every day, plus you get all the cool underwater shots. We went on ATVs through the rainforest in a downpour and were able to capture it all thanks to a waterproof camera. But if you’re out on the town and would prefer not to get wet, an umbrella is a must.

Of course sun protection is key including a hat which I wore every day. I wore SPF 30 and then tried a new sunscreen that has self-tanner in it, which I loved. Double win! Bug spray will also be a huge help since Costa Rica is full of various creatures including insects. I was lucky enough not to get bitten but a few friends were tortured throughout the trip by those pesky mosquitos.

As far as fashion goes, again versatility is key. Flat sandals are the way to go, I wore mine every single day. I paired casual tanks with dark colored shorts since they go with anything and also camouflage your sweat (and trust me you will sweat!) A cute and functional backpack is a great way to store your things while exploring everything the country has to offer. Oh and bring a map because in some parts of the country there is little to no signs so navigating through with a map is essential.

So there you have it, the kind of things that you actually need when visiting Costa Rica. Trust me, you don’t want to do what I did and overpack. Live and learn!

Top image via Building 25