Has anyone ever used these? We are planning a trip to CR and thinking of buying a pair, but the cost will be $200-$400 for a very basic one, so I'm hesitant.

I'm not sure why you would need night vision goggles. If you just want to see where you are walking around at night, I would suggest a small flashlight. Lighter on the wallet and in your suitcase.

My guess is that acctg wants to see the animals, etc in the dark. I've been wanting to get some to use at our cabin so I too am curious how they work & to get suggestions on a brand.

Yes you are correct Cvecheko. I guess I should have amplified on my original question. Anyone have any experience with these things?

I looked into these before I went to CR. They seemed like a great idea for night hikes, but I just couldn't fit them into my budget. But the people who use these with the most regularity (other than the military) are hunters. I got alot of good information at an outdooors store that catered to hunters. Ask around- maybe someone you know knows a hunter who'd be willing to give you some first hand information. Maybe even on a different webite talk forum. Let me know how they work out!

What I'd REALLY like is a hunter who would lend me his/her pair! Good idea about another forum-thanks.