Costa Rica is a traveler’s paradise. The beautiful nature and diverse environment is thrilling. From beaches to mountains to volcanoes, there is something for everyone. But there is one aspect of Costa Rica that is less than perfect. The weather. While the winter chill might have you longing for the sun, the Costa Rican sun is another animal all together. Between the intense heat and the endless humidity, the weather in Costa Rica can be a major hurdle for many travelers. But follow the advice in this article and you will have everything you need to overcome the weather and enjoy everything Costa Rica has to offer.
Pack plenty of water-proof, sweat-proof sunscreen
Don’t fall into the trap of “I’ll buy it when I get there” when it comes to sunscreen. Costa Rican’s know that we foreigners are not accustomed to the intense sunshine, so every bottle of sunscreen comes with a hefty gringo tax. Pack your own and pack plenty of it! Remember that you will be swimming and sweating a lot during your time in Costa Rica so make sure to pick your sunscreen accordingly. And don’t forget to reapply frequently!
Don’t underestimate the power of hydration
Keep a bottle of water with you at all times and keep drinking it. You can even make it into a fun challenge with those you’re traveling with — whoever finishes their bottle last has to buy the next round for everyone! But hydration is not just about drinking water. You should also avoid alcohol and caffeine as much as possible (they dehydrate you from the inside). Try to eat lots of watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other foods with high water content as well.
Manage your activity level and avoid the peak heat
It can be tempting when we are traveling to try and do it all, but when you are traveling in hot and humid weather, it is important to manage your activity level. When you plan your day, don’t pack it full of activity. Try to move at a slower, more casual pace. You can think of it as embracing the pura vida way of Costa Rica. One way to plan with regard to the weather is to try to be indoors between 12 PM and 3 PM. This is the hottest part of the day when the sun is most intense, so it is a good time to for a long lunch. Air conditioning is a welcome plus.
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Fill your suitcase with loose, light clothing
Those skin-tight yoga pants might be unbelievably comfortable, but they are not Costa Rica-friendly. Instead, opt for super lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Think light linens with plenty of room to breathe. For women, flowy dresses will be your best friend. For men, opt for super thin cotton tees and linen shirts. A proper wardrobe can be a game changer for your trip.
Be prepared so you can get the most out of Costa Rica
Having the proper sunscreen and clothing, staying hydrated, and planning your days with the weather in mind can be the difference between a good and a great experience while traveling in Costa Rica. Take a little bit of extra time to prepare for your upcoming trip and your time in Costa Rica will be unforgettable for all the right reasons.
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