The best rule of thumb for packing for your trip to Costa Rica is to pack lightly. The last thing you want to be doing is to drag a bunch of luggage around with you. Be aware that you can have your laundry washed very inexpensively while you are here.

Here are our suggestions for things you should consider bringing:

• Insect repellent with Deet
• Shampoo (biodegradable)
• Towel
• Light-weight cargo pants
• Light-weight long-sleeve shirt
• Sturdy, open air shoes (such as Keens)
• Light Clothes….it can be hot and humid
• Mosquito net (optional, but nice to have)
• Rain Coat
• Bathing suit
• Small Umbrella
• Snack Bars (you will receive three meals if with a
  host family and breakfast if at the hostel, but these
  come in handy!)
• Flashlight (non-battery if possible)
• Toothpaste / toothbrush
• If volunteering at a school, you’ll have to have
  sleeves and you must wear pants or a skirt. You might
  also want to bring stickers, temporary tattoos or other
  small gift to hand out as prizes in class.
• Backpack
• Sun block
• Camera (don’t forget extra batteries and memory
  cards)
• Passport (and copy of your passport)
• Money and ATM card
• English / Spanish Dictionary
• Possibly gift(s) for your host family (if
  applicable), such as photos of your family, post cards
  and a map from your community, a "treat" local to your
  area such as maple syrup or something fun to share.
• Any required medications in their original container
• A few plastic bags to keep soiled/wet clothing in
• Consider filling up any extra space with donations for the orphans or families!

If you are participating in one of our programs on the
indigenous reservation, Monte Alto, Barra Honda, or Monkey
Park, please consider bringing the following:

• Hooded sweatshirt
• Hiking Boots
• Mosquito net (Talamanca Indigenous Reservation – not always necessary, but nice to have)