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How to Book a Costa Rica Surf Trip

How to · Travel

How to Book a Costa Rica Surf Trip

A straightforward plan to handle the $2800 cost of a Costa Rican getaway using a structured repayment window.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,800 before anything else
Across the 0% window $155.56/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,800 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Costa Rica in May is the sweet spot. The crowds thin out after the peak season, the rainforest is lush from the early rains, and the surf breaks are consistent. You get the best of both worlds without the holiday price hikes.

We can manage the $2800 cost by breaking it into smaller, predictable payments. Using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, you get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you spread the expense over 18 months so you don't feel the full hit at once.

Keep in mind that 0% interest isn't free money. If you haven't paid off the $2800 before the 18-month window closes, the remaining balance will start collecting interest at the standard rate, which is usually much higher.

The steps

  1. 01

    Lock in your dates

    May is shoulder season, so look for flights early. Aim for mid-week travel to keep airfare down. Once your flights are set, book your stays near the coast to minimize transport time.

  2. 02

    Set up your payment plan

    Using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, your intro window on purchases is 18 months. If you owe $2800, that breaks down to $155.56 per month. Set up an auto-pay for this amount so you don't have to think about it.

  3. 03

    Book your surf sessions

    Find a local surf school or board rental shop before you arrive. Pre-booking often saves a bit of cash and ensures you have a board that fits your skill level when the swell hits.

  4. 04

    Map out your rainforest treks

    Don't pay for expensive guided tours for every hike. Use local maps and park apps to find trails you can explore on your own. Keep your cash for the post-surf meals.

  5. 05

    Automate your savings

    Even though you have 18 months, keep your buffer fund growing in a separate savings account. If an emergency happens, you have the cash to clear the balance early.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% offer early. It will also hurt your credit score and result in late fees.

Is Costa Rica expensive in May?

May is the start of the green season, so lodging costs usually drop significantly compared to March or April. You get more value for your money.

Should I pay more than the minimum?

Always pay more than the minimum. Your goal is to hit $155.56 each month to wipe the debt out by the end of the 18 months.

Are there other fees with this card?

Check the fine print for things like foreign transaction fees. If you get charged a fee for using the card abroad, it adds to your total trip cost.