Costa Rica- Gear List

Gear List Trip Updates

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IMG 6173 Costa Rica Gear List We’ve planned this trip during the heart of the dry season. During the month of March weather is usually sunny with very little rain. Along coastal areas and in lowlands temperatures average as highs in the 70’s to mid-80’s, and lows in the 60’s to mid-70’s. At mid elevations, (example: San Jose) subtract 5-10 degrees. At high elevations (example: Monteverde) subtract 20-30 degrees. That being said, be prepared for anything!

The importance of having the appropriate gear for outdoor adventures can not be overstated. We make every effort to ensure that our companions are kept warm, dry and comfortable- having the right gear makes this task much easier. When choosing outdoor gear, the rule of thumb is to get the best gear you can afford, knowing that particular items are significantly more important than others. Also, when everything you have in the back country is being carried on your back, make sure that it is worth its added weight- otherwise leave it behind.

If you do not yet have all of the following gear- don’t worry- we can help you get it. We have marked the following items with an (*) if they are required- meaning you shouldn’t come without them.

TRAVEL AND PERSONAL ITEMS

*Valid Passport- please ensure your documentation is current.
Spending cash – Breakfasts, dinners, transportation and accommodations are included in the price of the trip. You will be providing most of your own lunches and you might like to buy some gifts, snacks, or things along the way. We recommend an average of $30 per day.

Additionally, there is an exit fee of $27 to be paid at the airport when leaving Costa Rica.
*Medications – Please let us know in advance if you require refrigeration, otherwise you are responsible for storing and administering your own prescribed medication.

HIKING

*Hiking boots or sturdy shoes, medium weight, broken-in
*Waterproof sandals, shoes
*Backpack (2500 to 4000 cubic inches)
Waterproof pack cover, extra straps

CAMPING

*Tent or bivy sack with rain fly and repair kit
*Sleeping Bag (a 30F degree bag recommended)
Sleeping Pad

EATING AND DRINKING

Water filter and iodine tablets for backup (we can usually share this with everyone)
*Water bottles (enough to carry 1/2 gallon)
*Eating bowl or plate
*Eating utensils
Insulated mug for warm drinks
Lighter or waterproof matches
Biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, small towel

CLOTHING

*Sun hat and sunglasses
*Rain jacket (Must be waterproof!)
Rain pants
Long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and light jacket
*Shorts, short-sleeved shirt, and underwear (quick-dry fabrics are preferred)
Hiking socks
*Swimsuit
Rash guard surf shirt or wetsuit

OTHER ESSENTIALS

*Waterproof bags, at least 1
Small first aid kit
*Sunscreen, at least 40 SPF recommended
Pocket knife if desired
Headlamp, extra bulbs and batteries
Toothbrush, toothpaste
Toilet paper in plastic bag
Trowel for digging cat holes (see previous item)
Insect Repellant
Camera, waterproof camera or waterproof camera case recommended

The total weight of your belongings should weigh no more than 1/3 of your body weight. Try to pack as light as possible- easier said than done!

Questions about packing? send us an email, or leave a comment on the discussion section at the bottom of this page. Chances are your question will be helpful to others, too.