These are real items from real trips — water shoes for rocky beaches, bug spray for the jungle, and a power bank that's survived two years of humid air. Nothing on this list is filler.
Rocky tide pools, river crossings, and volcanic beaches — you'll wish you had these on day one. I wear mine from the hotel to the water and back.
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Café Britt grows at 1,200m elevation in the Central Valley. You'll drink it every morning here — take some home. One of the best coffee-producing countries on earth.
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A lockable cross-body bag that sits in front of you on buses and crowded markets. The OZUKO has a hidden back pocket and slash-proof straps — I use mine daily.
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Costa Rica requires proof of onward travel. If you don't have a return flight booked, you'll need a verifiable ticket — border agents check, and airlines ask at check-in.
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Mosquitoes in Costa Rica carry dengue. The jungle lodges and Caribbean side are serious — bring proper repellent, not the grocery store stuff.
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The equatorial sun here is no joke. I keep a spray bottle in the bag for quick reapplication and a sunstick for the face — both reef-safe for Costa Rica's protected waters.
Spray — Amazon Sunstick — Amazon
The snorkeling off Ocotal and Hermosa is genuinely worth it. This Cressi set has mask, snorkel, and fins — quality gear that won't fog up or leak.
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Power cuts happen in rural areas and beaches don't have outlets. The Anker 10000 fits in any pocket and charges a phone twice — I've had mine for years.
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Cold drinks on the beach matter when it's 35°C. This insulated backpack holds ice for hours and doubles as your regular beach bag.
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Sandals won't cut it on Arenal trails or wet river crossings. The Saucony TR series grips well on mud and dries fast — lighter than hiking boots for the heat.
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All the gear in one place — plus a few extras I haven't written up yet.
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Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I've actually used in Costa Rica.
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