A Costa Rica mission trip packing list should prepare you for three things at once: ministry, tropical weather, and international travel. For teams serving in Jacó with Divergent Life, the goal is to pack light, stay comfortable, and arrive ready to serve.

This is a general starting list. Your team will receive trip-specific guidance as your dates, activities, lodging, and ministry opportunities are confirmed. For the full trip overview, visit our Costa Rica Mission Trips page.

Start with your essential travel documents

Keep your passport and travel documents in your carry-on, not in checked luggage. U.S. travelers should review the current Costa Rica entry requirements before departure. The U.S. Department of State currently advises travelers to carry a passport valid for the duration of the stay and proof of onward or return travel.

• Valid passport
• Flight itinerary and return-travel information
• Copy or secure digital backup of your passport
• Travel insurance information, if purchased
• Emergency contact information
• Any documents required by your church or team leader

Entry requirements can change. Before travel, review the current U.S. Department of State guidance for Costa Rica.

Pack lightweight clothes for Jacó’s tropical climate

Jacó is on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, so expect warm, humid conditions. Lightweight, breathable clothing will usually be more useful than heavy layers. During the rainy season, a light rain shell or compact umbrella can also help.

• Lightweight shirts
• Comfortable shorts or lightweight pants
• Undergarments and socks
• Sleepwear
• Light rain jacket or poncho
• Hat or cap
• Swimsuit for approved free-time activities
• One modest outfit appropriate for church or ministry settings

Choose clothing you can move and serve in comfortably. Your final packing guidance may vary depending on the ministry activities confirmed for your team.

Bring comfortable shoes for ministry and walking

Teams may spend time walking through Jacó, serving with local ministries, preparing meals, teaching, or participating in other practical activities. Bring footwear that can handle a full day.

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Closed-toe shoes for any work or service activity that requires them
• Sandals or casual shoes for downtime

If your team has a specific work project, we will let you know whether additional footwear or protective gear is needed.

Pack for sun, heat, and insects

The CDC recommends that travelers to Costa Rica take precautions against mosquito bites and protect themselves from heat and sun exposure. Current health guidance can change, so check the CDC traveler page before departure.

• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Small first-aid items you normally use
• Hand sanitizer

Before your trip, review the current CDC traveler guidance for Costa Rica and talk with your healthcare provider about your personal health needs.

Bring your prescription medicines and personal care items

Bring enough prescription medicine for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case of travel delays. Keep essential medications in your carry-on when possible.

• Prescription medicines
• Basic over-the-counter medicines you normally use
• Toiletries
• Personal hygiene items
• Contacts, glasses, and backup supplies if needed
• Any allergy or medical information your team leader should have

Do not rely on finding the same brand or formulation of medicine after arrival.

Pack a small day bag for ministry days

A small backpack or day bag makes it easier to carry what you need without hauling your full luggage around Jacó.

• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Phone and portable charger
• Small notebook and pen
• Bible or devotional material
• Any lesson notes or ministry materials assigned to you
• Light rain layer

Keep valuables to a minimum and follow your team leader’s guidance about what should stay at the hotel.

Bring the materials your ministry assignment requires

Divergent Life plans service opportunities around your team’s strengths and confirmed local needs. Teaching, children’s ministry, meal outreach, prayer, and practical service may require different supplies.

Do not buy a large amount of ministry material before your assignment is confirmed. We will identify what is actually useful so your team can prepare intentionally instead of bringing things that are not needed.

For a step-by-step planning overview, read How to Plan a Costa Rica Mission Trip for Your Church or Youth Group.

What should stay home?

Pack simply. Expensive jewelry, unnecessary electronics, and large amounts of cash usually create more responsibility than value on a mission trip. Leave behind anything prohibited by airline rules, Costa Rican law, or your team’s conduct expectations.

Your team leader should also clarify expectations for alcohol, tobacco, personal gift-giving, photography, and interactions during ministry before departure.

How much luggage should you bring?

For a one-week trip, many travelers can manage with one suitcase or travel bag plus a carry-on or backpack. Packing lighter makes airport transfers and local transportation easier, especially when a group is moving together with luggage.

Check your airline’s current baggage rules before packing. Airline fees and allowances can change, and your selected fare may determine what is included.

Final checklist before you leave

• Passport and return-travel documents
• Lightweight ministry clothes
• Comfortable walking and closed-toe shoes
• Rain protection
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Prescription medicine and personal care items
• Bible, journal, or devotional material
• Phone charger and portable battery
• Small day bag
• Confirmed lesson or ministry materials
• Emergency contact and insurance information

Once your dates and team details are set, use this as your starting point and follow the trip-specific guidance provided during planning.

Ready to begin? Submit your team’s trip details. If you are still building the financial side of the trip, use our Costa Rica mission trip cost and budget guide.