Tropical packing list – what we took with us to Costa Rica

Between Pacific beach, cloud forest and Caribbean - and 27 °C humidity. What counts: light, quick-drying, robust.

Clothing

5× T-shirts (technical fabric, quick-drying)
2× shorts, 1× long hiking pants (mosquitoes in the evening)
1× lightweight rain jacket (it can pour even during the dry season)
1× fleece for high altitudes (Monteverde gets chilly)
Swimsuit, microfiber towel
Sturdy hiking boots + sandals

Protection against mosquitoes & sun

Repellent with 30% DEET (for mosquitoes in the Caribbean)
Sunscreen SPF 50 (the Pacific sun is relentless)
Sun hat

Tech

Travel adapter Type A/B (U.S. standard)
Power bank — for hiking trips or day trips without access to an outlet
Waterproof phone pouch

Miscellaneous

First-aid kit: Imodium, electrolyte powder, band-aids, antiseptic
Water bottle with filter (for remote areas)
Copy of passport + rental car voucher