jdp867

Please help- we are staying at Arenal (2nights), Moneteverde Lodge (2 nights), Makanda by the Sea (4 nights) and Xandari (2 nights). My husband wants me to pack LIGHT- do we need to dress for dinner anywhere or will one pair of black pants serve me ok? (I don't own sundresses and my skirts will require yet another pair of shoes). Silly, I know, but I'm trying to pack and it would sure help to know!

Suzie2

You didn't mention where you are staying in Arenal but I think you should be fine with just your black pants. You won't need to "dress" at monteverde or, I suspect at Arenal. You do need at least one pair of long pants for hiking (sometimes) or the cooler temps up in Monteverde. A long sleeve shirt would be good also. If you plan on doing any horseback riding, zip lines, long pants would be a good idea. Xandari is about the only place I can think of that you might need your black pants. If you want a sundress, I bought 2 at the Arenal Paraiso gift shop last year and there were several shops in Fortuna that had them.
Other things needed: Very lightweight rainjacket or poncho. I like to have more of a lightweight rainjacket that can also double as an extra layer. It can get cool and windy up in Monteverde. You can buy really cheap ponchos for a couple of dollars that are one time only use pretty much and would not take up any room. You can buy them folded up in a little package. I think I have seen them at places like WalMart or even drug stores. A baseball cap to wear under the hood would be good to keep any rain out of your eyes. Wouldn't hurt to have for Manuel Antonio also for the sun. Small flashlight. Pour your shampoo etc into small plactic containers so you don't bring a huge bottle of each. Pack these together and put them on the top. For some reason, the thick conditioner sets off a search. If it is on top they will see it right away and not dig into your personal things so much. Those things get heavy. Some type of daypack would be good if you go out hiking a lot for tissue, bug spray, water, etc. I have a large fanny pack with 2 outside water holders.
Don't know if you have a sarong but I have a couple that I use for beach blanket/towel that takes up a lot less room than a towel and is much lighter.
Just remember when you are packing, if you don't like to be seen in the same clothes every day, just pack enough for changes for the place that you will be in the longest. It will all be new at the next place. Laundry can be done there if you need it.
When packing for CR I always start out with a mountain of clothes as a wish list and then by the time I actually leave it is just a small pile (I go for 3-4 weeks at a time).
A copy of your passports that you can carry with you might not be a bad idea. For a while the immigration service in CR was doing a lot of checking in certain areas. Haven't heard much about it lately but it wouldn't hurt to have copies in a little ziplock that you can just stick in your pocket just in case. Also would help if your passports are lost or stolen.
Costa Rica is pretty user friendly and most of the people are very nice.

Tess_Durberville

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CASUAL, CASUAL, CASUAL --- Costa Rica "dress code" tends toward a relaxed look. One pair of nice black pants will serve you fine. Definitely don't bother dragging a sundress or skirt if you feel that'll also require you to pack another pair of shoes. Agree that the only place you may find folks "dressing" may be at Xandari. Arenal? No way --- either you'll be hiking or relaxing at hot springs or other activities that don't necessitate fancier dress.

I've only been to CR a couple times, while Suzie2 has many more trips under her belt. Her post offers sage words of advice.

jdp867

Can't thank you all enough for the great advice. The conditioner tip is something I never would have thought of! We have rainjackets, layers, zip-off, quick-dry pants from REI, quick dry shoes, bug stuff, sun screen and hats. Should be set! THanks again- I feel MUCH better about packing now (and my husband thanks you as well).
Jill

Suzie2

Have a wonderful trip.