The following is a Costa Rica packing list of items that you may consider to bring if you are visiting for more than one week. Keep in mind that this is a general list, and some items may not apply to you. On the flip side, we may not have listed items that are of importance to you personally.

Clothing:

• 1-2 pairs of long pants.  One for dinner in the evening, one for hiking thru thick bush.  Avoid denim if you can as it will take forever to dry. Again, think quick dry and maybe the kind that zip off above the knee for when it gets hot.
  
• 3-4 pairs of shorts. At least one pair for dinner attire, and the rest quick dry for fun.
  
• 4-5 tee shirts.  At least 1 long sleeved for hiking and to protect from sun.
  
• 1-2 dress shirts or blouses
  
• 3-7 pairs of socks-bring old socks and throw them away at end of trip (nothing smells worse in a suitcase than damp socks)
  
• 7-9 pairs of underwear (again, old is best and throw away)
  
• Something light to sleep in-many accommodations will not have air conditioning.  If you will be spending time in the higher elevations, you will want something warmer to sleep in as there will not be heating.
  
• Light weight jacket for warmth in the higher regions
  
• Water resistant jacket to keep folded in a pocket for those afternoon/evening showers that pop up.
  
• Baseball cap or something to block the sun from your head (of course, this may be an ideal item to purchase there)
  
• Mesh bag to store wet clothing
  
• Swimsuit (maybe several!) and beach cover up
  

Shoes - I think Keens (or a similar brand of amphibian hikers with a deep traction sole, covered toes, open sandal style) were invented for Costa Rica.  They don’t hold water, they give you the traction you need for hiking, rappelling, etc, and they protect your toes. Depending on your planned activities, you may also need a pair of water shoes.  Also pack beach sandals and dress sandals.  If you are really getting into some wet countryside, you can borrow or rent a pair of rubber boots (as long as your foot size is smaller than size 11).

Toiletries:

• Disposable razors
• Comb or brush (you may want a hair dryer as many hotels will not have them)
• Toothbrush with cover and 3oz toothpaste
• 3 oz or smaller antiperspirant
• 3 oz or smaller shampoo and conditioner (some hotels will have them)
•  Synthetic backpacking towel (they are lightweight & dry quickly) Of course, you will probably want to buy a beach towel as a souvenir of your trip
• Tampons (if needed)
• Cosmetics (in 3 oz or smaller sizes)

Tip - Buy the small plastic travel size containers and fill with your lotions/shampoos/creams, etc - it saves money!