Things I'd tell my best friend to get.
Tested in real Costa Rica rain, mud, and sunshine. If it's on this page, it earned its spot.
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Packing
Worth the suitcase space. Promise.
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Packable rain jacket must-have
Light, folds into its own pocket, dries fast.
Why I say so: It rains most afternoons in green season. You'll wear this more than your swimsuit.
Link coming soon -
Shoes that can get wet must-have
Grippy, quick-drying, happy in mud and rivers.
Why I say so: Regular sneakers stay soggy for days here. Ask me how I know.
Link coming soon -
Reef-safe sunscreen must-have
Mineral formula that's kinder to rivers, oceans, and hot springs.
Why I say so: The sun this close to the equator does not care that it's cloudy.
Link coming soon -
Bug spray must-have
A travel-size bottle for evenings and jungle hikes.
Why I say so: Sunset in the rainforest is mosquito happy hour. Don't be the snack.
Link coming soon -
Dry bag
Keeps your phone and passport dry on boat, rafting, and waterfall tours.
Why I say so: Cheaper than a new phone. Way cheaper.
Link coming soon -
Quick-dry clothes
Breathable layers that dry overnight.
Why I say so: Cotton never fully dries in this humidity. It just gets... damp forever.
Link coming soon
Tours & experiences
The ones I'd book for my own family.
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Arenal Volcano hike must-have
Old lava fields, rainforest trails, and big volcano views.
Why I say so: Go early. The summit loves to hide behind clouds by noon.
Link coming soon -
Hanging bridges must-have
A walk through the rainforest canopy, great for all ages.
Why I say so: Book it with a guide. They'll spot sloths you'd walk right past.
Link coming soon -
Hot springs
Volcano-heated pools for after a big adventure day.
Why I say so: Evening is the move. Warm water, cool air, zero regrets.
Link coming soon -
Chocolate tour
Cacao from tree to bar, with plenty of tasting.
Why I say so: My go-to rainy-day pick. Also my go-to any-day pick.
Link coming soon
Moving here
The stuff nobody warns you about.
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Money transfer service must-have
Move money between countries without bank-wire fees.
Why I say so: Banks will happily take a chunk of every transfer. Don't let them.
Link coming soon -
Travel & expat insurance must-have
Coverage for medical surprises and travel mishaps abroad.
Why I say so: The boring choice that becomes the smartest one the day you need it.
Link coming soon -
Spanish lessons
An app or a tutor, whatever fits your schedule.
Why I say so: Even basic Spanish makes everyday life here so much easier (and more fun).
Link coming soon
Working remotely
For laptop days in paradise.
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Travel eSIM must-have
Mobile data the second you land, plus a backup when Wi-Fi drops.
Why I say so: Wi-Fi here is great until a storm says otherwise.
Link coming soon -
Surge protector must-have
Protects your laptop from storms and power flickers.
Why I say so: Tropical storms + expensive laptop = buy the surge protector.
Link coming soon -
Foldable laptop stand
Turns any café table into a decent desk.
Why I say so: Your neck will send a thank-you note.
Link coming soon -
Noise-canceling headphones
Calm calls, even with a full jungle soundtrack.
Why I say so: Roosters, rain on a tin roof, howler monkeys. Yeah.
Link coming soon