What needs to be declared at Costa Rica Customs?


What needs to be declared at Costa Rica Customs? Arrival to Costa Rica: Customs Service & What to Declare The form asks you to declare everything you are bringing into the country that is not part of your personal effects. If you receive a copy of this form, you may list one line, “gifts” with a value of max $300.


Should I exchange money before I travel to Costa Rica?

Nearly everybody accepts the U.S. dollar, so if you have dollars, you do not need to convert it. You will usually receive change in local Costa Rica colones. The exchange rate hovers between 500 and 550 colones to $1 USD. You can exchange money at banks or at the airport.


Is it better to pay in dollars or colones?

We suggest you take dollars, but if you can grab some colones at your bank, it will make the beginning of your trip much more manageable. For example, if you have a taxi, they may take only colones. If you need to go to the local market before you head to your hotel, they may not be able to take dollars.


Can I bring my snacks through customs?

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.


Should you carry your passport with you in Costa Rica?

carry your passport, including the Costa Rican entry stamp received at the immigration entry point. avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery. avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables. avoid isolated or deserted areas.


Do you tip in Costa Rica?

Most restaurants will indicate impuestos incluidos (“taxes included”) somewhere on the bottom of their menus. You're free to add something extra if you think it's warranted, but if you calculate your tip as a percentage of the entire bill, you'll be tipping on the 23% already added for taxes and service.


What toiletries can you take through customs?

Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.


Can customs open your luggage?

Generally, customs officers may stop people at the border to determine whether they are admissible to the United States, and they may search people's belongings for contraband. This is true even if there is nothing suspicious about you or your luggage.


Do you have to declare everything at customs?

All travelers must complete a CBP Declaration Form 6059B itemizing all purchased merchandise and agricultural products. Here are your options: Complete a paper form that may be obtained at the port of entry or on the flight or cruise.