Packing for warmer climates and beach vacations has always been difficult for me. Costa Rica in particular was even more of a challenge because I was heading there on the cusp of rainy season, which generally stretches from May to November. So, I needed to make sure I had the proper attire for either type of weather.

To make matters even more complicated, the climate in Costa Rica varies by the region you're in! For example, while I was in San Jose, the temperature hovered around 80 degrees, but it got as hot as 97 degrees in Liberia. Yikes! Because of this, I made my packing list around the different activities I would be doing.

• 1 pair Kavu hiking shorts
• 1 pair Puma athletic shorts
• 2 tank tops
• 1 Sports bra
• 1 pair well-worn Keen hiking boots
• 3 pairs socks
• Collapsible water bottle
• Camelbak 50 oz. HydroBak
• Patagonia packable rain jacket
• DEET-free bug repellent (picked from this awesome guide by My Tan Feet)
• Granola bars

For Swimming or Beach Days:

• 1 Chambray shirt
• 1 pair leggings
• 1 T-shirt
• TOMS

• 1 pair shorts
• 3 tank tops
• 1 short dress
• 1 maxi dress
• Pajamas (1 tee and 1 pair cotton shorts)
• Unmentionables for the week
• Small cross-body purse
• Sunglasses

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Cleansing face wipes
• Bar soap
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Pure aloe (for sunburns)
• Hair ties
• Makeup
• Deodorant
• Razor
• Small hair brush
• Straightener (I know -- ha!)
• Tylenol
• Benadryl (I'm allergic to bee stings!)
• Travel first-aid kit

Electronics:

• PacSafe backpack web
• Padlock
• Extra Ziploc bags -- an absolute must!
• Notebook & pen
• Passport & copies
• US embassy information
• Hostel & hotel information
• Credit cards and emergency cash

There were a handful of things that I had brought that I could have done without. For example, I never wore the short or maxi dress because I was much more comfortable in shorts and a tank. The straightener was wishful thinking, of course. My hair went up in a braid most days because it was too hot to have it down anyway!