Packing List for your Tropical Retreat

During gloomy January days, my mind takes a joyous detour straight to the tropics! Known as a  lightweight travel wizard, I aim for everything to squeeze into a backpack or a carry-on. Lesson learned: excess luggage is like carrying a herd of elephants on your back. Minimalism is my mantra—less baggage, more freedom. So, buckle up for my tried-and-true tips on achieving the perfect equilibrium between readiness and the art of packing light. Here's the ultimate stress-free, good vibes-only packing list I dished out to the adventurers joining my weeklong yoga, hiking, and nature-loving Blissed by Nature Retreat in Costa Rica. Because, let's face it,  leaving extra baggage behind might just lift your spirit! 🌺 PURA VIDA!
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Clothing

• 3-5 Yoga tights, bras, and tops. Keep it light, flowy, and short. 
• 2 Swimsuit or surf shorts; snug-fit for active water activities. Bring two so one can dry while you wear the other.
• Coverup for the pool and your shoulders
• 1 Rash guard if you’re surfing, providing sun protection and comfort.
• 3 Casual, beach-style evening wear (sundress, shirts, shorts) think linen and light
• 1 Shorts, 2 shirts, 2 thin socks for hiking (this can be the same outfit you wear for yoga)
• Light rain jacket (if you pack it you probably won’t need it)
• Light PJs, underwear

 
Accessories:

• Sun hat, baseball cap, sunglasses.
• Insect repellent and soothing cream for potential insect bites.
• Waterproof SPF 50 face sunblock, and reef-safe sunscreen
• Toiletry kit with personal essentials
• Waterproof phone cover and float strap for water adventures.
• Flashlight – it gets dark at 6 pm
• Camera and binoculars if you are into the incredible flora and fauna
• Charger for your electronics (same plug as in the US)
• You don’t need to bring a yoga mat (unless you want to). We have straps and blocks, too.
• Packing cubes (to keep everything organized)

 
Shoes:

• A versatile pair of sandals (like Teva) that can get wet
• Lightweight nylon hiking or trail running shoes for diverse activities.
• No high heels!

 
Hydration:

• Insulated water bottle for staying well-hydrated in the tropical climate.
• Light-weight hiking hip belt or small day pack to fit your water bottle

 
Documents and Money:

• Valid passport with at least six months remaining.
• Money belt or purse for essential documents and cash.
• Local currency for practical use, along with debit and credit cards. You can use local ATMs to get currency. (1 USD = around 500 Colones)

 
Reading Material:

• A paperback book for beachside/ poolside leisure.

 
Health and Safety:

• Your prescriptions. I will carry a First Aid kit containing essentials like aspirin, band-aids, and anti-stomach upset medications. Anything else we can get at the local pharmacy.
• Any necessary travel and medical insurance cards.

I roll all my items, pack them tightly in my bag like Tetris, and if I cannot fit everything, I go full Marie Kondo and cut stuff out. I rather err on the side of too little than dragging around too much, half of which I probably won't even wear. Why do we overpack? It's fear talking. We've become so attached to our creature comforts that the mere thought of leaving them behind induces panic. But here's the scoop: travel is the ultimate adventure. And guess what? No one's keeping a tally of your outfit repeats. Embrace the déjà vu – it's a fashion statement! Be brave and travel with less.