Outfits to Pack for Costa Rica

If you’re into slow travel and wondering what outfits for Costa Rica you should pack, the short answer is this: pack versatile clothing. If you’re wondering what slow travel is, it’s a style of traveling where you focus on the quality of the trip rather than the quantity. Slow travelers spend numerous weeks to months at a time in a destination, and immerse themselves in the culture, environment, and try to be more sustainable by taking less transportation.

What you pack will depend on what you’re expecting to do during your trip. For me, I balanced local living with outdoor adventures. While doing a work exchange through World Packers, I asked the locals about the best things to do—and here’s what I wore for each occasion.

It’s important to factor in the weather, region, and time of year when packing. Costa Rica isn’t just sunny— it can also be rainy, humid, and overall unpredictable. I visited the Guanacaste Province in Costa Rica which in January is fortunately the beginning of the dry season with little to no rain. Costa Rica is a truly inspirational destination. The culture, the people, the way of life, and overall energy are very warm and inviting—so of course you’ll want to pack accordingly.

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Beach Picnic with Friends

One of the best parts about visiting Sámara Costa Rica, is the friendly energy from locals and other travelers alike. Sometimes, if you ask nice enough, you might get invited to play soccer or tag along for a picnic. To be prepared for anything, pack a wrap, your favorite swimsuit, comfy sandals, and a chunky headband to keep your hair out of your face.

Shop the look:

Floral Wrap on Amazon (this is very similar to mine!)

Chunky Headband

White Halter String Bikini

Destination : Playa Sámara, Sámara, Costa Rica

Waterfall Chasing

Contrary to what TLC told us, it is always a good idea to go chasing waterfalls. Make new friends, hop on an ATV, and go to a local-recommended waterfall. When you do go, pack Chaco sandals, breathable shorts, a sports bra, and a fanny pack—but most importantly pack a swimsuit (or better yet wear it on the hike up).

Shop the look:

Women’s Chaco Cloud Outdoor Sandals

Lululemon Athletica Everywhere Belt Bag

Destination : Mala Noche Waterfall, Nosara Costa Rica

Mid-Morning Yoga

Looking to refresh and rejuvenate with yoga? Pack a lightweight bikini wrap and thank me later. Use it as a cover-up, tie it into a dress or skirt, then when it’s time for yoga, roll it out as a mat. Like I mentioned earlier, you can find similar wraps on Amazon or better yet, buy one locally.

Destination : Pelada Beach, Nosara, Costa Rica

Visiting Local Shops/ Strolling a New Town

I don’t know if anything feels cozier—or more stylish—than a dress. My friend and I both thrifted ours from a local shop in Nosara, Costa Rica. Shopping locally not only supports small businesses owners, but also gives you a fun and unique memento. Pair with cute sandals and cool-girl sunglasses, you’ve got the perfect outfit for strolling or shopping.

Destination : Hot Tamale Thrift Shop, Nosara, Costa Rica

Bonus: Keep It Casual

I’m a traveler who prefers to experience a country rather than just tour it. I truly enjoy connecting with others and immersing myself in the culture however I can. If you’re curious about how to find opportunities to slow travel yourself, I recommend starting with a work exchange through World Packers. As a solo traveler, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to blend in—not only for safety reasons, but also to learn more about the culture and feel like you fit in better.

When it comes to packing, bring athletic wear, breathable linens, walkable sandals and shoes, lots of swimsuits with coverups, and anything you’ll feel comfortable moving in. Quick-drying fabrics are especially important—they won’t shrivel up and die with the humidity, frequent ocean swims, and a busy, active itinerary.

Above all, pack what makes you feel confident and comfortable. The conviction you have behind what you wear, is the best style there is.