What to pack for Sept.
 

Casual clothes, flip flops, bathing suits, sun screen, camera, bug spray, umbrella...what else?

I assume you are referring to Costa Rica?

Not sure where you are going so that could matter. I'd make sure you have hiking/tennis shoes that have a good grip if you plan to do any walking/hiking, plus lots of socks. I'd get a light portable rainjacket and skip the umbrella. Flashlights are always useful, many places are not lit up like places in the US and finding your way at night can be a challenge sometimes. I always bring along a few clothespins and a few plastic bags (of varying sizes) for damp/wet clothes & shoes. A small pair of lightweight binoculars are great and a small daypack for carrying water & camera.

My packing list is here (may have to copy and paste):

http://thorntree.lonelyplanet.com/me...d=0&from=1

Since that posted I've added an SD memory card reader so I can blog and a silk travel sheet to the list. In the past we've taken our backpacking water purification pump but this year I had a Traveler Steripen and was really pleased; small and light, it uses UV light to purify water.

Best advice is pack really light - just a loosely-filled carry-on sized bag (I prefer a conversion pack) and a small day pack. Happy trails!

I should have said my list is #15 in the FAQ thread.

Sneakers and/or sturdy sandals (you need better shoes than just flip flops).

Sarong/pareos (to wear over bathing suit, use as a table cloth, etc. etc.)

Straw hat.

We put dessicant packs in our camera case to keep the moisture away. Not sure where you're staying, but most of the places we've gone have provided umbrellas; I'd bring one of those small foldup rain ponchos instead. Also a pair of Keen's and shoes you can hike in.

Not knowing your destination... umbrellas are not always practical to use. Better a hat or real lightweight poncho w/ hood.