Packing List
2022 Packing List CR - IFC.pdfNotes on Packing
Climate/Weather
Costa Rica experiences two seasons: dry season, which runs from January to May, and the rainy season, which runs from May to December.
The average temperature in Costa Rica is between 75 F (21 C) 86 F (27 C).
Rain can occur suddenly and intensely, so it is wise to bring appropriate rain gear such as a waterproof jacket.
It will be very hot during the summer months (80- 90 degrees) so pack lightly and accordingly.
Luggage
During the course of your travels you will be responsible for carrying and tending to your own luggage. Travelers tend to significantly over pack; it is actually quite amazing how little you need. In general, plan to pack for a week to ten days.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Confirm baggage weight allowances with your airline provider! Be sure to consider ahead of time if your bags will be overweight upon departure from the program, as it might result in additional fees from your airline provider (some airlines ONLY accept major credit cards as payment, prepare accordingly!).
Large Suitcase or Backpacking Pack
This will be for the bulk of your belongings.
Day Pack For The Program/ Carry-On Luggage
Your day pack MUST be a backpack.
Bring your day pack (a medium-sized carry-on) on the plane as well for anything that you might need during your flight.
Some essential items to bring in your carry-on:
Your passport and a printed copy of your passport
Printed copy of your travel itinerary (sometimes immigration officials want proof of your return flight before allowing you to enter the country)
Money
Prescription medication
Liquid medication must be 3oz or less to be in your carry-on.
Keep medications in their original packaging, with the original label that has your name clearly listed on it. Often, customs officers will check to make sure that the medication is prescribed to you.
If possible, ask your doctor for additional prescriptions for every medication that you are bringing. Please make sure that the doctor also lists the generic brand of each drug that he is prescribing. This is important because if we have to refill your medication at the local pharmacy they may not carry the exact brand name that you are requesting. They will, however, probably have the generic equivalent or some other brand name equivalent available.
YOU ARE REQUIRED TO NOTIFY GLA OF ANY PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION THAT YOU PLAN ON BRINGING WITH YOU. Please make note of these medications on the medical information/release form.
Anything you feel cannot live without in the event that your checked luggage is delayed! (Glasses, contact information, phone charger, etc.)
Optional
An empty duffle bag to bring back any items purchased for friends and family
Money Recommendations
$100 spending money per week (depending on your spending habits) + $200-$300 emergency fund (ONLY to be used in the case of an emergency)
We recommend bringing some cash with you, along with an ATM Debit and/or Credit Card, if you have access to one. Bringing an ATM Debit card will allow you to take out local currency from ATMs. This enables you to receive the best exchange rate possible. Please ask your bank about fees associated with using the card internationally as they can vary significantly. Be sure to let your bank know you will be using the card overseas.
Please ensure you have a photocopy and/or scan any cards you plan to travel with and know what to do if your cards are lost or stolen. ATMs can be finicky and/or require a 5-digit pin as opposed to the US standard 4-digit pin.
Your tuition covers most costs including your food, accommodation, transportation to and from community service sites, and program activities. On a day-to-day basis, your spending will be limited to market purchases (souvenirs and gifts), extra snacks, minor medical expenses, and travel to and from the country.
Students often misplace their money or spend it much quicker than they expect to, not taking into account the exchange rate. Please take into account your shopping and snacking habits when determining how much spending money you will need.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON $200-$300 EMERGENCY FUND
This is not to be spent on gifts or snacks. This money is for emergency purposes only, such as minor medical expenses or unexpected purchases. You are responsible for medical expenses while in-country. You pay upfront medical costs and then submit receipts to your insurance company. The GLA travel insurance policies provides secondary insurance, if your primary insurance denies coverage, the GLA policy covers it. If you do not have primary insurance, the GLA policy will serve as your primary insurance. Click on the links below for more details on what is included in your program tuition.
Electronics
Laptops, iPads, tablets, and other expensive electronics are not conducive to travel and are not permitted on a GLA program.
Drones are not permitted on GLA programs as they are also not conducive to travel. In addition, students using drones in the communities in which we work and live can have a negative impact our group's ability to build relationships. Many countries have outlawed or implemented harsh restrictions on drone use. Please leave your drone at home!
GLA recommends that students bring a point-and-shoot camera separate from their cell phones. Cell phones may be used as cameras during designated times. DSLRs and expensive photography equipment are allowed, however students will be responsible for the security of their equipment.
Please see the section on Phone & Internet Information for specifics on cell phone use.
What to Leave at Home
Pocket knives/sharp objects
Lighters/matches
Perfumes & body sprays - these attract insects!
Candles & incense
Jewelry & expensive items
Laptops/ iPads/ Tablets/ Drones
Blow dryers/curling irons/straighteners - you'll be too busy to worry about your hair!
A bad attitude!