What to take to Costa Rica
Gear:
Camera and lenses. One or two camera bodies, one long lens and one macro lens or similar. You can use your phone or take an extra lens for wide shots. Hood/rain cover for the camera/lens if you have one. I use a regular plastic bag. I have a few in my bag pocket. Lens/Camera cleaning stuff is a must. A tripod with gimbles is recommended, but if you really need one. Monopod is highly recommended. It's better to get portable. I also use my monopod for hiking. A backpack, rain cover or a plastic bag is a must.
Portable Storage, Laptop (make sure you will have storage for about (1000 pics per day at least)
If you have a birding spotting scope or binoculars, bring them with you. Always comes in handy.
Batteries:
Three min - 6 max for stills and video. Chargers and cables. If you have portable power storage, take one with you. In most places, you can plug in to charge, but not in all locations power will be available. Dual battery chargers are recommended for overnight charging.
If you have a portable flush, you may take one with you. All batteries must be stored in your carry-on bag and under surveillance.
Small flashlight/Headlight. Small monolights for video recording are strongly recommended.
Clothing:
Try not to take any heavy cotton clothing or any clothing that dries for a long time.
Take one hat for sure, a better one that covers your neck and ears.
Usually, I am taking my midrise running shoes and Crocs. I wore running shoes to the airport and put my Crocs in the bag.
A light raincoat is a must. 4-5 T-shirts, 1-2 shirts with long sleeves to go to the jangle. Synthetic underwear. Synthetic shorts and long pants. Swimwear. Sunglasses. Reading glasses.
Maybe a shell jacket for mornings and evenings up in the mountains. It gets pretty cold out there. Sometimes temperatures drop to 5-6 degrees and that’s in April.
No expensive jewelry or brand ware that can attract thieves. Costa Rica is safe, but it better be safe than sorry.
Don’t take any books with you. Get it on your computer/tablet in digital format.
Medication:
Take all medication you need or may need with you. It is recommended to take a cash reserve of $300 USD for a medical emergency.
Medical insurance:
Check your medical insurance and travel insurance. Some Master Card insurance covers medical expenses for travel for 21 days. Check your MC agreement.
The whole group will purchase First Aid Kid from Costco before the trip. Because Vlad has special training as a combat medical specialist, he will manage it if needed.
Face Masks:
Having some on hand is always good if some places still require them. You can purchase face masks in Costa Rica at the supermarket and pharmacy. Just have 2 or 3 in case you need one at the airport or so.
Hand Sanitizer:
Many establishments will have hand sanitizer by the front door, requiring guests to sanitize before entering. However, we highly recommend always bringing your own to have with you. You can purchase hand sanitizer in any pharmacy or supermarket. Just get a small one for the flight and keep the bottle you need on the way back. Remember you can only take small quantities on board the plain.
Disinfectant Wipes:
Also, I recommend bringing your own disinfectant wipes. When buying wipes, make sure you buy disinfectant wipes that kill bacteria. Not all wipes are disinfected.
Also, must take:
Mosquito repellent
Sunscreen
All the usual stuff that you take with you (all in small travel sizes)
Smaller bag or belt pouch for cache and documents that you will always carry on you.
If you have a G-Shock-style watch, take one with you. Don’t bring mechanical watches.
Phones: You have two options if you need to use your phone in Costa Rica. The first option is enabling your ROAMING if you are from the USA or CANADA, which usually runs between $10 and $12 USD per day (depending on the provider). Option two is getting a local SIM card with 5 GB of DATA and unlimited local calls for 21 days for $30 dollars USD.
