If you ask a person from Costa Rica or who has been to Costa Rica, chances are they will tell you that they love the rainy season in Costa Rica. They will follow it by mentioning the unpredictability of the weather here. But how do you plan without missing the packing essentials for the rainy season in Costa Rica?
The rainy season is our favorite in Costa Rica as the country turns lush green with beautiful mountains, full waterfalls, surf swells, and seasonal phenomenons like whale-watching and turtle-watching, which happens around Costa Rica. Also, most days, the rains are restricted to the afternoons and the mornings are sunny and perfect for exploring the country.
We created a list of Packing Essentials, that you cannot miss when packing for Costa Rica during the rainy season.
Equipping yourself with these 15 essential items will allow you to navigate Costa Rica’s wet season with ease.
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Rainy Season in Costa Rica
The rainy season in Costa Rica lies between May and November, in most parts of the country. It is also the green season or the low season for tourism. Except for some spikes during holidays, there are fewer visitors throughout this period.
Although the weather is mostly unpredictable, the showers normally happen in the afternoon and you can still have sunny mornings during the rainy season.
Here is our complete guide on the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica.
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Read this: Should you rent a car in Costa Rica?
Packing Essentials List
Heading to Costa Rica during the rainy season requires some thoughtful packing to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. While we have covered the full packing list here, we have created this specific list that you should not miss during the rainy season in Costa Rica.
Waterproof Backpack
A waterproof backpack is a traveler’s best friend in Costa Rica. Not only does it protect items like passports, cameras, and travel journals from downpours, but it also serves as a barrier against splashes during water activities or boat rides.
It is better to be prepared for the afternoon showers or the odd rainy days not worrying about what you have in your backpack.
This lightweight waterproof backpack has several color options to choose from. It is easy to fold and fits into a pouch.
The pricier 26L option from Thule offers the quality and reliability associated with one of the most trusted brands in the industry.
Waterproof Dry Bag
We have found dry bags essential in Costa Rica, whether hiking in the rain or participating in water sports. A dry bag ensures that items like electronics, clothing, and important documents stay dry and secure. Its waterproof design and roll-top closure create a tight seal, keeping your valuables safe from moisture, splashes, and even submersion in water.
The 20L Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is perfect as an individual day roll-top backpack. It is an all-weather day pack as it works for water activities in the dry season as well. It is the perfect size to carry your solo essentials like a hydration pack, snacks, and a lightweight rain jacket, while still protecting your documents and gadgets from the unpredictable rains.
The 35L Earthpak Summit Waterproof Dry Bag is great for a family or if you have extra equipment like a camera, for its extra storage space. The ergonomics and the waist belt provide additional support for the longer hikes in the tropical forests of Costa Rica.
Related Reading: Read our guide on the adventurous hike to the colored pool of La Leona Waterfall, swimming through a canyon. You can book the guided tour to La Leona Waterfall from this link and get a 5% discount using our code paradise
Plastic Bags or Packing Cubes
These organization tools help compartmentalize your gear, making it easier to find what you need. Plus, they are crucial for separating soggy clothes from the rest of your belongings, preventing dampness from spreading.
We have found this extremely helpful as we stay in multiple places on any given trip. At the end of one stay, we have those rain-soaked or muddy clothes that require separation from the fresh ones. The extra laundry bag comes in handy during the wet season.
The plastic bags can be as simple as medium or large-sized garbage bags that work as storage for muddy clothes after the hikes on the muddy trails or the ATV tours or water activities until you get a chance to use a laundry service.
Rain Jacket
The Costa Rica showers, though brief, can be intense. That is why, opt for a jacket that provides effective waterproofing while also being breathable, with a hood for additional protection. This helps to shield you from the rain without causing you to overheat in the tropical climate.
The Columbia Jackets for Men and Women are easy to pack and lightweight adding minimal to your travel pack.
Poncho
We recommend carrying a poncho to have maximum protection. The factors of choice are the same – lightweight, breathable, and easy to pack.
The Anyoo Rain Poncho ticks off all the features on our list and it is well-priced. It can also accommodate the backpack if you wish to keep it under protection cover.
Related Reading: Read about our hike to the El Tigre Waterfalls in Monteverde, one of the most adventurous waterfall hikes in Costa Rica
Umbrella (Optional)
To be honest, we rarely used an umbrella in Costa Rica. If you do not carry one, you will still be fine, just do not miss the other rain gear.
In case you still want a sturdy, lightweight, windproof travel umbrella for those casual strolls on short trips, you can get one. We understand if you do not always want the rain jacket.
Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Costa Rica’s diverse terrain calls for sturdy footwear that can handle both slippery paths and muddy trails. Waterproof hiking shoes with a good grip are essential to keep your feet dry and prevent slipping.
The sneakers are good for easy hikes in the dry season. But in the wet season, those can get muddy, wet, and uncomfortable.
Our criteria for selecting the hiking shoes are – waterproof, lightweight, and good traction. The trails get muddy after the rain and have tiny pools. You need closed shoes for the jungle hikes and do not want the water to get into the shoes.
Hiking Sandals
Unless you wish to stick to the beach and do not venture out to experience Costa Rica’s forests, waterfalls, wildlife, volcanos and activities, you are good in your flip-flops.
But, we do not think you will do that and why would you!
So instead of flip-flops, get multipurpose sandals with good traction which will be great for light hikes and water activities.
Monteverde is the top destination for hiking in the cloud forests of Costa Rica. Read about the hikes and other activities that you can do in Monteverde.
Quick-Dry Clothing
Quick Dry Clothes are must-haves during the rainy season as drying clothes can be challenging.
We recommend packing a mix of long and short-sleeved tops, shorts, and pants, to accommodate the variable weather conditions and different types of activities.
You can wear shorts for short hikes, on the beach, and dining out. Pants are required while hiking in the rainforests and during specific activities. We prefer convertible pants in moisture-wicking fabric, like this one for men and for women.
Microfiber Travel Towel
For the same reason as above, the microfiber towels are essential. These towels come in handy for water activities or beach days, especially just before you switch locations. They are designed to dry quickly in humid conditions, preventing you from carrying a damp, smelly towel to your next destination.
Insect Repellent
In the rainy season, it is a packing essential for Costa Rica. Do not forget to apply it before your hikes, nature walks, birdwatching trips, or waterfall treks. The insects and mosquitos are irritating and we do not think that you like having the red patches on your skin after each hike.
Off Deep Woods is the common insect repellent that is widely available. If you want a DEET-free alternative, check this insect repellent from Cutter that is DEET-free and natural.
Sun Protection
It is a common misconception that you will not need sun protection during the wet season. In reality, the sun can be harsh during breaks in the rain, making sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protection sunglasses necessities for skin and eye safety.
The UV index of Costa Rica is high and we recommend at least SPF 50 if you will be on the beach, in the water, or outdoors hiking for hours.
Supergoop sunscreen is an excellent option, thanks to its water and sweat resistance and quick absorption properties. Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50 is another excellent option, reef act compliant, with similar properties protecting against UV rays, and is kids friendly.
Waterproof Phone Case
We like that new phones are getting water-resistant or waterproof but still get nervous using it drenched in the rain. Also, it is not ideal to charge the phone before it is completely dry.
A waterproof case not only saves your phone from unexpected downpours but also allows you to capture photos and videos during water-based activities without worry.
The popular one is Hiercool which does the work. The Pelican comes with floating capabilities, useful if you will be going water activities.
Waterproof Action Camera
We carry a waterproof action camera because of its versatility. Although the in-built phone camera is good most of the time, we like the GoPro action camera for 3 reasons.
- Completely waterproof: We do not miss photos in any situation – in the rains or underwater.
- Hyper smooth stabilization: It captures steady videos during the adventure activities
- Low Light Performance: The conditions can be dark during the rains and the excellent low-light performance helps a lot
Portable Charger
This is for emergencies and any unwanted situation during the trip.
In case you are out of power for any extreme weather condition and beyond anyone’s control. You will always have access to power outlets, particularly in the prominent tourist places. But, it is better to have an extra power source with you.
Also, on long action-packed days, the chargers are useful in getting back the power and not miss those vacation photos.
First Aid Kit
Traveling with a first aid kit equipped with the basics is always a good idea, particularly in a wet climate where slips and scrapes can occur. Including personal medications is also advisable in case of travel delays or accessibility issues.
Final Thoughts
With the right packing, you will be free to enjoy the abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences without the inconveniences the weather might otherwise impose.
Prepare well, do not miss these packing essentials for Costa Rica in the rainy season and you are sure to have an unforgettable journey in one of the most biodiverse places on earth, regardless of a little rain.
Plan Your Costa Rica Trip:
- 10-day Costa Rica Itinerary from Liberia
- 2-week Costa Rica Itinerary from San Jose
- 5-day Costa Rica Itinerary Ideas from Liberia or San Jose
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