Thanks again for more replies!

Suzie2 -- I'll be there for 10 days. Glad to hear another woman could pack in a backpack!

I don't have much fear when it comes to traveling (I've done a fair amount), but I've never been on the mainland in Central America and just wanted to double-check on stuff like the water. My stomach is pretty sensitive, so I'll probably try to drink bottled more at the beginning.

You guys are such a wealth of information!

Hey Shutterbug,

Just returned from Arenal/Manuel Antonio. Traveled with thousands of dollars in camera gear. Used these Silica gel packets to keep the moisture out of my camera bags and suitcase. I used the 1 oz packets which was a good size. 30 bags for 19.99 was plenty for 7 days. Didn't insure the gear. Couldn't find a plan that would cover moisture damage.

http://www.veritemp.com/Products/Packaged+Desiccants/

Bought 2 gallon jugs of water to fill our water bottles for day hikes, etc. Spent less then $10 on bottled water for entire trip and had plenty!