1. What is the weather like during my stay?

Dry season runs from November to May, and it has the potential to rain in late April through the end of November; a raincoat or umbrella during this time is advisable. Also, if you plan on hiking cloud forests like Tenorio, be prepared for rain at any given time of the year.

2. Does my house/hotel have access to laundry facilities?

Having access to a washer and dryer can greatly influence how many of each clothing items you need. Should you be privy to a laundry facility, consider packing less; after all, you are on vacation and can wear the same thing more than once. Should you be living out of a suitcase all week with no intention of doing laundry, you’re advised to bring a set of clothes for each day plus extras to accommodate for traipsing through the jungle or just plain sweating through them.

3. What sort of activities will I be participating in?

Will you be surfing every day? Or lounging poolside? What you pack for your Playa Grande vacation depends on how you plan to spend your time. Beach goers should pack extra swimsuits, rash guards, and sunscreen. Hikers need to bring the appropriate footwear and bug spray. Visitors interested in activities like ziplining and horseback riding need either long shorts or jeans as well as sneakers to prevent blisters and uncomfortable rubbing.

4. Am I going anywhere else other than Playa Grande?

Just because Playa Grande is hot and humid doesn’t mean the rest of the country is. Costa Rica may be located between 8 and 11 degrees latitude, undoubtedly in the tropics, but if you’re heading inland, especially to high altitude areas like Arenal, be sure to pack a light jacket and long pants. The air is much cooler in the cloud forests and Central Valley, especially when compared to coastal regions.