Billie Jo's Picks

Stuff I actually recommend.

Tried, tested, and approved in real Costa Rica rain, mud, and sunshine.

Heads up: some of these are affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure here.

๐ŸŽ’ Packing for Costa Rica

What's actually worth the suitcase space.

Must-have

Packable rain jacket

Lightweight, folds into its own pocket, and dries fast.

Why: It rains almost every afternoon in green season. You'll use this daily.

Link coming soon
Must-have

Water-friendly hiking shoes

Grippy soles that can handle mud, river crossings, and waterfall trails.

Why: Regular sneakers stay soaked for days in the humidity.

Link coming soon
Must-have

Reef-safe sunscreen

Mineral-based and better for rivers, oceans, and hot springs.

Why: The sun here is strong, even on cloudy days.

Link coming soon
Must-have

Insect repellent

A travel-size repellent for evenings and jungle hikes.

Why: Dusk in the rainforest = mosquito rush hour.

Link coming soon
Nice to have

Dry bag

Keeps your phone, passport, and camera safe on boat, rafting, and waterfall tours.

Why: Cheap insurance for expensive electronics.

Link coming soon
Nice to have

Quick-dry clothes

Light, breathable layers that dry overnight.

Why: Cotton never fully dries in the humidity.

Link coming soon

๐ŸŒ‹ Tours & experiences

The ones I'd book for my own family.

La Fortuna

Arenal Volcano hike

Lava fields, rainforest, and big volcano views.

Tip: Go early for the best chance of a clear summit.

Link coming soon
La Fortuna

Hanging bridges

Walk through the rainforest canopy. Great for wildlife spotting and all ages.

Tip: A guide helps you spot way more animals.

Link coming soon
La Fortuna

Hot springs

Volcano-heated pools, perfect after a long day of adventure.

Tip: Evening visits are the most relaxing.

Link coming soon
La Fortuna

Chocolate tour

Learn how cacao goes from tree to bar, with plenty of tasting.

Tip: A great rainy-day pick.

Link coming soon

๐Ÿก Expat & moving essentials

Things that make life here easier.

Money

International money transfer service

Move money between countries with lower fees than a bank wire.

Link coming soon
Coverage

Travel & expat insurance

Coverage for travel, medical, and the unexpected while abroad.

Link coming soon
Language

Spanish learning app or tutor

Even basic Spanish makes daily life here so much smoother.

Link coming soon

๐Ÿ’ป Remote work setup

For working online from paradise.

Connectivity

Travel eSIM

Mobile data the moment you land, and a backup when the Wi-Fi drops.

Link coming soon
Power

Surge protector

Protects your laptop during storms and power flickers.

Link coming soon
Comfort

Foldable laptop stand

Turns any cafรฉ table into a decent workspace.

Link coming soon
Focus

Noise-canceling headphones

Roosters, rain on a tin roof, and howler monkeys โ€” you'll want these for calls.

Link coming soon