What to Pack for La Fortuna, Costa Rica – A Complete Traveler’s Guide

La Fortuna is a lush paradise in the northern lowlands of Costa Rica, known for its incredible biodiversity, hot springs, waterfalls, and, of course, the imposing Arenal Volcano. Whether you’re here for adventure, wellness, or pure relaxation, packing smart will save you time, money, and stress.

We wrote this guide as if we were helping a close friend pack their bags. It’s full of practical advice, local tips, and items most travelers forget. Ready to feel like a pro traveler before even leaving home?

Clothing: Lightweight and Layered

Costa Rica’s tropical climate can be unpredictable. In La Fortuna, you can expect warm days and cooler evenings, especially if you visit during the rainy season (May–November).

• Quick-dry T-shirts and breathable fabrics

• Shorts or light hiking pants

• Swimsuits (always bring two!)

• A light rain jacket or poncho

• A hoodie or long-sleeve shirt for the evenings
  

Footwear: Function Over Fashion

We’ve seen too many travelers in flip-flops regretting it halfway through a hike. Bring:

• Water-resistant hiking shoes or sturdy sandals

• Flip-flops or slides for hot springs or hotel use

• Closed-toe shoes if you plan on doing adventure tours (ATVs, zip lines)
  

Essentials You’ll Thank Us For

• Sunscreen (reef-safe if you're hitting rivers or lakes)

• Bug repellent (DEET-free options are safer for jungle environments)

• Reusable water bottle

• Daypack or waterproof backpack

• Dry bag or Ziploc bags for electronics

• Power bank and charging cables
  

Extras That Make a Difference

• Travel insurance documents

• Passport + copies (digital and printed)

• Quick-dry towel

• Flashlight or headlamp for night tours

• Binoculars for birdwatching
  

Local Advice

• Don’t overpack. Most people end up wearing the same 3–4 outfits.

• Casual is the norm. You’ll see sandals and shorts even at nice restaurants.

• Many hotels offer laundry services—pack light, wash as needed.
  

Final Packing Tips from Locals

As a company based in La Fortuna, we meet travelers every day—and we know the small things that make a big difference. For example, many people don’t realize just how much humidity can affect your devices and clothes. Packing silica gel packets (those little bags that absorb moisture) in your electronics pouch can save your phone or camera lens from fogging.

Also, bring copies of all your important documents: passport, insurance, hotel confirmation, and emergency contacts. Keeping a digital backup in your email or cloud storage is wise too. If you’re planning to use your phone for navigation or translations, consider downloading offline maps (Google Maps offers this) and translation apps before arriving.

Another insider tip? Always carry a small amount of Costa Rican colones in cash. While credit cards are accepted in many places, some local restaurants, park entrances, or souvenir stalls only take cash—and having exact change can be a lifesaver in rural areas.

Lastly, don't forget your curiosity and sense of adventure. La Fortuna is a place where you might start your day on a zipline and end it soaking in volcanic hot springs under the stars. The best things you’ll bring are not in your suitcase—they’re your attitude and openness to connect with the land, its people, and their stories.

Now you're ready—mind, body, and backpack. Welcome to La Fortuna.