Decide where you want to go in Costa Rica and what you want to do there. If you want to hike, surf or relax, consider staying in a youth hostel for at least a night or two to save money. If you're seriously budget-conscious, or are interested in volunteering, many organizations will provide lodging in exchange for you spending your days volunteering to help wildlife or work in a school/daycare setting.
Learn the bus routes and prices. While Costa Rica offers taxis and tourist buses to get you from Point A to Point B, taking the local buses is significantly cheaper, and as a bonus you get to experience how the locals get around. As of summer 2010, most buses between towns in Costa Rica cost only a couple of dollars. Don't expect to keep a tight schedule, though, as they can often be delayed and/or need en route maintenance due the bumpy dirt roads.
Eat light and local. While in Costa Rica, you will spot many vendors selling fresh produce for low prices. This is especially common in large bus terminals. Enjoying light, local meals like that can save you money, as can shopping in grocery stores rather than restaurants. For snacks or light breakfasts, consider bringing along granola bars, beef jerky or any other substantive snack from home--your vacationing mind will interpret this as "free food" since you didn't buy it while traveling!
Limit your souvenir buying and "excursion" purchasing. Costa Rica offers travelers many opportunities to see the country in exciting ways. Surf lessons, tours of the rain forest and adventure tours are all available. However, they often cost about $50 each, as of June 2010. Think about one or two special things you'd like to do and spend the rest of your time finding cheaper entertainment such as swimming, hiking or exploring the towns on foot. Also, consider taking pictures or buying post cards to give to friends back home, rather than more expensive souvenirs.
