by Caryna St. John

Created on: February 27, 2009

The Top Ten Things to Bring on a Trip to Costa Rica

If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, chances are that you will be visiting the popular Guanacaste province, in which many of the major resorts operate. However, even if you are travelling to San Jose to visit volcanoes, or to the south pacific to explore undiscovered destinations, these are the top 10 items that you should consider bringing with you.

Bug Repellant

There are bugs in Costa Rica that you will have never seen before. Big noisy bugs such as the cicadas and small annoying bugs like the "no-see-ems". The bottom line is that some of these bugs bite and you will want to be prepared. Although you can buy bug repellant when you get there, it can't hurt to have some on hand.

Sunscreen

The sun is intense in Costa Rica, particularly during the dry summer months of December, January, February and March. Don't risk getting a burn by going without sunscreen. Be sure to pack at least an SPF 30 waterproof sunscreen.

Lightweight clothing

They don't call it the rainforest without good reason. The coastal areas of Costa Rica
are warm, moist, and humid. What this means is a whole of lot of sweating. Be prepared by packing lightweight clothing made out of fabrics such as cotton and breathable nylon. Some fabrics even contain an SPF factor making your wardrobe part of your sun protection.

Solid shoes

If you plan on doing any adventure tours during your stay, which is typically the norm in this eco-adventure country, plan on packing a pair of sturdy hiking-type runners. Although you will want sandals for the beach and for daywear, when you are taking a jaunt through the rainforest you will want your feet to be protected.

Sunglasses

This goes without saying. Where there is sun, you will most certainly want a good pair of sunglasses.

Guide book

Unless you are booking into an all-inclusive vacation package, you will want to bring with you at least a basic guide to Costa Rica and map. Particularly if you have rented a vehicle and will be exploring the coastline or central valley on your own, having a compass to guide your trek will make finding those vague Costa Rican addresses a little more bearable.

Swim suit

Who would come to Costa Rica without a swimsuit? Make sure it isn't you. The beaches are beautiful and the weather is perfect. One thing you will most definitely be doing at least once is going for a swim.

US dollars

Although the national currency is the colon, US dollars are accepted in most locations. Your best bet is to bring

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