Here's a packing list to ensure you have the essentials for your trip to the West Coast of Costa Rica: 

• Passport and ID: It’s essential that you check the passport expiration dates of all travelers to make sure you will be able to travel. You will not be allowed to enter Costa Rica with an expired passport. Ensure you have your travel documents, including travel insurance and important phone numbers. Always keep a copy of your passport stored digitally in the cloud, saved with a trusted person back home, or bring a printed copy with you in case it’s lost and you need to visit the embassy. 

• Flight tickets: Keep a copy of your return flight details handy in case customs asks for it upon entry.

• Driver's license: If you plan to rent a car.

• Travel Tech Essentials: Cell phone, chargers, etc. Outlets in Costa Rica are typically the same as in the US. 

• Personal Toiletries: As a reminder, if you are flying with a carry-on suitcase, you are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.

• Medications and toiletries: Include reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards, bug repellent, and any personal medications. I also recommend keeping a copy of the prescription (whether physically or digitally) for any essential medications. 

• Cash & credit cards: I recommend bringing cash, and especially small bills for tipping. You will receive better service at all-inclusive resorts if you tip your waiter at the pool per drink that they bring you. I also always recommend tipping housekeeping, no matter what hotel you are at, porters if they help carry your bags, tour guides, and transfer drivers. US dollars are widely accepted in Costa Rica, especially in tourist areas. However, you may receive change back in the local currency if you do not have small bills. Credit cards are accepted for larger purchases, such as tours and at hotels. Make sure to alert your credit & debit cards that you will be traveling so they don’t block your payment transactions.   

• Bug Repellent: I prefer insect repellent with picaridin instead of DEET. It's proven to be just as effective but the smell isn't as strong. It’s available in various sizes, some that work with carry on suitcases. 

• Sun Protection: Costa Rica is much closer to the equator and the sun is much stronger than what most from the US are used to. Sun protection is strongly recommended, including rash guards, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Some essentials to look into:

• Please consider bringing reef-safe sunscreen. Here’s a guide to the best sunscreens that don’t contain ingredients that kill coral. Remember, if you are traveling with carry on suitcases only

• UV Skinz has a great line of UV Protectant rash guards, clothing, hats, cover-ups, and more.

• Coolibar is another great brand with UV Protectant sun shirts, swimwear, 

• REI also has a great line of UV protectant clothing that you can wear during hiking and other land activities to protect your skin.

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: It will likely be hot and the sun is significantly stronger in Costa Rica. The Pacific Coast usually experiences temperatures from the mid-80s to the low 90s in March. 

• Sturdy walking shoes/sneakers & beach sandals

• Swimwear to enjoy the pools, beaches, and boats 

• Rain jacket: March is the driest month of the year on average across the entirety of Costa Rica and the Pacific typically sees zero rainfall. However, Costa Rica is still a tropical country and can have sudden rain showers.

• Daypack or beach bag: For daily excursions and carrying essentials. I personally love these bags as they are waterproof, pack completely flat, have a zipper closure, and have multiple pockets. 

• Reusable insulated water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring and keep your water cold.

For other items I always pack with me while traveling, you can read about my packing essentials here.