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 Costa Rica in the rainy season?
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, perfect for exploring.
We created a list of Packing Essentials, that you cannot miss when packing for Costa Rica during the rainy season. Equipping yourself with these essential items will allow you to navigate Costa Rica’s wet season with ease.
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Costa Rica Rainy Season Packing Essentials: Our Top 5 Recommendations
These 4 items make a difference in Costa Rica’s rainy season. We always have these essentials for our trip.
- Packable and lightweight rain poncho that covers backpack
- Dry bag to keep valuables safe and dry. Our picks:
- Washable travel laundry bags to keep the wet clothes separate
- Hiking sandals with grip for wet paths and quick drying
- Insect repellent
- Common pick: OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
- DEET-free option: Insect Repellent by Cutter
Keep reading for the packing essential details.
🛒 Shop our Costa Rica Rainy Season Essential Picks on Amazon →
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.
➡️ Related Reading: Still thinking? Here’s why to visit Costa Rica in Rainy Season
Packing Essentials for Costa Rica in the Rainy Season: Overview
We think of the rainy season essentials in focused and smaller checklists, grouped by categories, such as:
- Rain Gear + Waterproofing Essentials
- Footwear for Wet Trails + Water Activities
- Clothing, that actually dry
- Bugs and Sun Protection in the Green Season
- Tech + Safety Items for Wet Weather Travel
Also, it helps in planning the packing list according to your activities.
👗 While we have covered the full Costa Rica packing list here, we created this specific list for items you should not miss for the rainy season.
🧳 To assist you at the time of packing for Costa Rica in rainy season, we have created a PDF checklist. Grab your free copy below.
Rain Gear + Waterproofing Essentials
Water-Resistant or Repellent Backpack
We find a water-resistant or water repellent backpack useful in Costa Rica’s Rainy season, when we plan multiple destinations and need to move between places.
Not only does it protect items like passports, cards, cameras, and travel journals from sudden 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 water-resistant backpack has several color options to choose from. It is easy to fold and fits into a pouch. A poncho can cover it in case of heavy rain.
The 26L option from Osprey with Rain cover offers the quality and reliability associated with one of the most trusted brands in the industry. We like the rain cover option in case of sudden heavy downpour.
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 10L 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 20L Earth Pak 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.
We have and use both sizes of dry bags. The smaller one for half-day hikes and short day trips and the bigger when we carry our camera, lens and extras for a longer hike or day trip.
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.
Travel Umbrella (Optional)
To be honest, we rarely use 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.
Footwear for Wet Trails + Water Activities
We follow this simple footwear formula:
- Hiking sandals with good traction for light hikes, waterfall hikes, water activities and easier walks
- Waterproof hiking shoes for longer forest hikes and muddy trails
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.
We use Keen water sandals which works great for various activities, waterfall hikes and casual walks. We found the Hyperport sandals lightweight, easy to pack and comfortable for long walks.
Indranil use Keen’s Hyperport for Men’s and Pubali uses Keen’s Hyperport for Women’s.
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.
Read next: Things to Do in Monteverde.
Renting A Car in Costa Rica
🚗 Car Rental Company: We recommend Adobe Rent A Car, a 100% Costa Rican company with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
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📃 Rental Car Insurance: Understand 3 types of rental car insurance in Costa Rica
Read this: Should you rent a car in Costa Rica?
Quick-Dry Clothing
Quick-Dry Tops and Bottoms
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.
Packing and Organization
Packing Cubes
These organization tools help compartmentalize your gear, making it easier to find what you need. Plus, they are crucial for separating those used 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.
Waterproof Laundry Bags
We have realized over time, that separate all-weather laundry bags are essential when you need to have that plunge in the swimming pool or a fun beach time, or a waterfall hike towards the end of your trip. Sometimes, on the last day.
A washable laundry bag help us separate those dirty clothes from your packing cubes for the dry clothes.
We have those rain-soaked or wet clothes that require separation from the fresh ones. The laundry bags comes in handy during the wet season.
If you have reusable plastic bags, you can carry a couple of those for wet clothes between destinations.
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.
Personal Care & Safety Essentials
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, for its water and sweat resistance and quick absorption properties.
Blue Lizard Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50 is another good option, 80-minutes water resistant and reef act compliant, with UV protection properties.
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.
Tech Essentials
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 good photo ops, even 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.
Common Costa Rica Rainy Season Packing Mistakes: What Not to Bring
Rainy season packing for Costa Rica is not about bringing more stuff. It is about bringing the right things.
When the afternoon rain hits, a few small packing choices can turn into a soggy, uncomfortable day, or a trip where nothing ever fully dries.
Avoid cotton and slow-drying fabrics like Denim
Cotton feels like a good idea until it gets wet, and in Costa Rica, it will get wet.
The biggest issue is that cotton holds moisture and takes a long time to dry in humid weather. That means you end up re-packing damp clothes, and they can start smelling musty fast if you are moving between destinations.
What we do instead:
- Pack quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabrics
- Bring a mix of tops and bottoms you can rotate easily
- Plan for the reality that drying overnight is not always guaranteed in the rainy season
Pack your favorite cotton clothes for indoor activities only, or eating at restaurants or for relaxing at your hotel.
Skip flip-flops for anything beyond the beach
Flip-flops are fine for the beach, the pool, and walking around your hotel.
But once you hit muddy trails, slippery steps, rocky paths near waterfalls, or uneven rainforest terrain, flip-flops no longer feel safe.
We keep flip-flops when we know that we will spend significant time at the beach or for hotel amenities. Else, to pack lighter, we skip flip-flops and use hiking sandals instead.
With the sandals, you will still get that breathable, tropical feel, but with grip and toe protection.
We would also avoid regular sneakers in rainy season because once they get soaked, they often stay soaked.
Don’t pack heavy raincoats
You will overheat. Rain is not the only factor in Costa Rica. Heat and humidity matter just as much. You can dehydrate quickly during hikes. Better options for Costa Rica’s rainy season:
- A lightweight, breathable rain jacket with a hood
- A poncho that allows airflow and can cover your backpack too
FAQs: Costa Rica Rainy Season Packing
These are the questions we get the most, because the rainy season is incredible in Costa Rica, but it is also unpredictable. The goal is to stay comfortable and flexible without overpacking.
Do I need bug spray in Costa Rica’s rainy season?
Yes. Rainy season is when we are most consistent about using insect repellent, especially before forest hikes, waterfall treks and any nature tours.
If you forget bug spray, be prepared for insect bites, a trip annoyance you can avoid with one small item.
Are there mosquitoes in Costa Rica’s?
It is a tropical destination. Yes, there are mosquitoes in Costa Rica, particularly if there is vegetation around you. Watch this short video on the topic.
Whether you are in your accommodation in the middle of nature, or during outdoor activities and hikes, it is good to use a mosquito and insect repellent.
Are waterproof hiking boots necessary for Costa Rica?
Not always. For most travelers, waterproof hiking shoes make more sense than heavy boots. They are lighter, easier to pack, and are more comfortable in the humid climate.
Boots can be useful if you need extra ankle support or if you are planning long, muddy, technical hikes. But for most Costa Rica itineraries, waterproof hiking shoes with solid grip are enough.
Final Thoughts + Plan Your Costa Rica Trip
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 Itinerary from Liberia
- 2-week Itinerary from San Jose
- 5-day Costa Rica Itinerary Ideas from Liberia or San Jose
- Should you rent a car in Costa Rica?
- How to get around in Costa Rica?
- Costa Rica car rental deal: 10% off + other freebies
- Understanding Costa Rica car rental insurance
🛬 Planning to pick up your rental car at the airport in Costa Rica?
Here’s what to expect, based on our experience with Adobe Rent A Car:
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Travel Resources
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