Because Central America lies in the tropics, it is quite warm year round. It is also generally humid. Loose and light cotton shirts are ideal. Long-sleeved shirts are also good to protect against sunburn and mosquitoes. Evenings are also cooler, so having a light, breathable jacket is useful. Shorts are appropriate for cities, but if you’re planning to explore some Central American jungles, pack a few pairs of pants as well to protect from insect bites. A set of quick-drying clothes is also perfect for the jungle. If you’re visiting more beaches and cities, have a nicer outfit for going out to enjoy the night life.
One of the best parts about traveling through Central America is the selection of stunning beaches of emerald water and powdery sand. If you’re planning to stay close to the coasts, remember to pack swimwear. Sunscreen is also crucial. If you enjoy snorkeling or diving, biodegradable sunscreen is better for the health of coral reefs. A sarong is also extremely useful, working as a quick-dry beach towel, skirt or canopy. Cheap rubber flip-flops are a must for any beach holiday.
Central America is a great region for backpacking -- an excellent and cheap way to explore on your own. If the majority of your trip involves living out of one bag, make sure you prepare by finding a comfortable, durable, waterproof backpack, which will also be useful if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, or even camping. A good pair of walking or hiking shoes is essential if you’re backpacking. If you’re going to be roughing it for most of your trip, make sure to pack troubleshooting items like rope, duct tape, pocketknives and matches. An extra daypack is perfect for keeping your passports, documents, medication, money and emergency kit.
If you’re taking along electronics, make sure to purchase adaptors for foreign sockets and varying voltages. If you’re unfamiliar with Spanish, pick up a Spanish-English dictionary. English may be spoken in the tourist areas and near attractions, but a travel guidebook with common phrases will be helpful when communicating with the locals. Plastic zip-close bags will come in handy, both to keep important items dry and to separate dirty or wet clothes. For the most part, the ideal practice is to pack light; due to Central America's affordable prices, you’re sure to pick up items throughout the long trip.
