Packing for a trip to Colombia can feel like an impossible task. With the diversity of landscapes, climates, and activities to experience across the country, it’s hard to know how to pack your bag without checking five more!
Luckily, I’ve put together this Ultimate Colombia Packing List to help you know exactly what to pack for Colombia – whether you’re planning on exploring the hills of the coffee region or the shores of the Caribbean. This list will help you prepare for a variety of climates, while still leaving plenty of room left in your bag for souvenirs to bring home!
But why should you trust me? Well, I’m on a mission to visit all 32 Departments of Colombia on my tiny motorcycle – meaning I’m no stranger to packing light nor Colombia’s ever changing environments! So grab your backpack as we break down all my Colombia travel essentials.
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Colombia Quick Links
✈️ Flights – Use Kiwi.com or WayAway to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Colombia
🛏️ Accommodation – Find the best places to stay throughout Colombia on Booking.com and Hostelworld.com
✅ Get Insured – I personally use Safety Wing Nomad Insurance for my travels all around the world! VisitorsCoverage is another great option.
🚗 Rent a Car – Find the best deals for a Colombia road trip on RentalCars.com
🗺️ Find Things to Do – Check out Get Your Guide, Viator, and Tripadvisor for exciting adventures all around Colombia
☎ Buy a Sim – Airalo offers eSIMS for over 200 countries and regions
Understanding Colombia’s Climates And Regions
Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, with landscapes ranging from arid deserts to tropical rainforests to fertile mountains. This means the environment and temperature can vary greatly depending on what region of the country you’re visiting.
If you have limited time, I recommend focusing on just one region of Colombia. Not only will this help you cut down on packing, but is a great way to dive deep into the place you’re visiting. You can find some of my recommended region-specific Colombia itineraries here.
If you are planning to travel longer, understanding the nuances of Colombia’s climate and regions is crucial! Here’s a quick breakdown to get you started.
Have more time to spend in Colombia? Check out my full 3-week itinerary!
Colombia’s Climate at a Glance
Because of Colombia’s location near the equator, weather is greater impacted by altitude than seasons. Cities located at higher altitudes, such as the capital city of Bogotá, are known for their cooler temperatures, whereas coastal cities like Cartagena host warm weather year-round.
While temperatures don’t vary much throughout the year, rainfall does. The months of April and May and October and November are generally considered the rainiest months, although you can expect rainfall nearly any time of the year. Due to Colombia’s tropical climate, most storms are short but intense, meaning you’ll likely have sunny mornings with afternoon rain showers.
When considering what to wear in Colombia, proper rain gear is essential no matter where/when you’re visiting. Browse rainjackets on Amazon here, or keep reading for my personal recommendations.
Packing by Region of Colombia
From the Colombian coast to the eje cafetero, layering in Colombia is key!
Depending on which region of Colombia you’re visiting, you’ll need to tailor your packing list accordingly. Here is a quick breakdown of the climate of some of Colombia’s most-visited regions and some packing essentials.
⛰️ANDEAN REGION (Bogotá, Medellín, Coffee Region) – Cooler, varied climate due to mountains, layering and proper rain gear essential. I also recommend sturdy, waterproof boots like Blundstone Boots.
🌴CARIBBEAN REGION (Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla) – Hot and sunny year-round. Proper beachwear and sun protection are essential, I recommend bringing a lightweight sunhat and plenty of sunscreen!
🐋 PACIFIC REGION (Cali, Quibdó, Buenaventura) – One of the rainiest regions of Colombia, known for its extreme humidity. Absolutely don’t forget a rain jacket if you plan to visit this region.
🐒 AMAZON REGION – Wet, humid, and hot, this region is beautiful but known for its aggressive mosquitoes. Don’t visit without coming prepared with a high-DEET bug spray, or even bug-repellent clothing!
Clothing to Pack for Colombia
As I’ve mentioned, wear to wear in Colombia depends on what region you’re planning to visit, but there are some tried-and-true clothing essentials I recommend to any traveler! I’ve written these packing lists with the varied landscapes of the country in mind, meaning you’ll be covered no matter which corner of the country you’re heading to!
QUICK TIP: If you’re planning on visiting Colombia for one of its many celebrations, you may want to pack some brighter-colored clothing! Colombians love to go all out, and you’ll certainly want to look the part!
Colombia Packing List for Women
As an often-solo female traveler in Colombia, I understand wanting to find the perfect balance of practicality, comfort, and style while keeping my suitcase light! Here is my go-to packing list when prepping for a trip to Colombia.
👚 5-6 short sleeved t-shirts – Basic, cotton tees are a staple in my travel wardrobe as they’re lightweight, go with everything, and easy to mix and match.
🧥 2-3 long-sleeved shirts – For the cooler mornings or higher altitude adventures, having long-sleeves will keep you cozy. Bonus points if one of the long-sleeved shirts doubles as a hiking shirt!
🚶♀️ 1-2 pairs of pants – Outside of the coast, it’s not common to see locals wearing shorts. I recommend bringing a few different kinds of pants for your trip. I usually bring a “sportier” pair of pants like these nylon joggers as well as a more “daily” pair of pants like these cotton trousers.
👖 1 pair of jeans – The most versatile pair of pants on the planet, these are perfect for everything from exploring Colombia’s picturesque pueblos to heading out for a night of salsa dancing.
🩳 1-2 pairs of shorts – Especially essential if you’re planning on visiting the Colombian coast! I recommend a combo of the classic jean shorts and a sportier pair – these spandex bike shorts are my go-to, doubling as anti-chafing protection under a dress on a hot day (plus they have pockets!)
👗 1-2 lightweight dresses – I love nothing more than a quick, easy-to-throw-on dress when traveling, especially if it can double as a bathing suit cover up on the coast! I’ve worn this cotton babydoll dress to death all across Colombia, but this one is cute with a little more coverage.
☔️ 1 rain jacket – An absolute essential on any trip to Colombia. I recommend going with a durable option like this one from Columbia, but this lightweight option packs down into a tiny bag!
❄️ 1 packable warm jacket – A down jacket will keep you warm across a variety of climates and save you space in your luggage. I personally use this jacket – it’s warm, compact, and water resistant!
👙 1-2 bikinis or swimsuits – Even if you’re not visiting the Colombian coast, packing a swimsuit is essential! The country is full of hot springs, waterfalls, and plenty of hidden swimming holes and you don’t want to miss out!
👟 1 pair of sandals or sneakers – I LIVE in my Teva midforms when traveling. They’re the perfect combo of practical and cute – I love that they double as “out on the town” shoes while also being perfect for hikes or even wearing around the hotel. I recommend prioritizing a sandal with a comfortable sole since you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
🥾 1 pair of boots – My Blundstone boots have been my go-to travel companion for years. Waterproof, durable, and easy to slip on and off, they’re the perfect travel boot in my opinion. However, if you’re planning on doing more trekking while in Colombia, I recommend prioritizing a boot more aimed towards hiking like these ones from Colombia.
🩴 1 pair of “house shoes” or flip flops – Colombians call them “chanclas,” but these are basically your throw-on-around-the-house shoes. I recommend a lightweight but sturdy brand like Haviana to keep you from having to buy these over and over again.
🎽 5-7 bras – I bought these cross-back sports bras ages ago and they’ve been a game changer in my travels across Colombia. Not only are they moisture-resistant, but the longer cut makes them easily double as a top in hotter parts of the country!
🧦 5-7 pairs of socks – I recommend bringing a mix of lightweight everyday socks as well as throwing in a few thicker pairs if you plan on hiking while in Colombia.
🩲 7+ pairs of underwear – In my opinion, you can never have too much underwear!
Colombia Packing List for Men
This list is slightly less extensive since I’m not speaking from personal experience, but here is a go-to packing list for men traveling to Colombia!
👕 5-6 short sleeved t-shirts – Once again, basic cotton tees reign supreme!
🧥 2-3 long-sleeved shirts – For cooler mornings, sun protection, and style! Bonus points if one of the shirts doubles as a hiking shirt.
👖 2-3 pairs of jeans/trousers – I recommend a mix of jeans and versatile hiking pants
🩳 1-2 pairs of shorts – One pair of nicer shorts and one pair of athletic shorts should be all you need
🥼 1 button down – Highly recommended for nights on the town, or even just to throw over a cotton tee for extra bit of style
☔️ 1 rain jacket – An absolute essential on any trip to Colombia. This one from Columbia is durable and warm, but this jacket packs down to save space in your bag.
❄️ 1 packable warm jacket – This packable puffer jacket is water resistant, compact, and warm!
🩱 1-2 swimsuits – You don’t want to miss out on Colombia’s many swimming holes! Save on space by packing athletic shorts that double as swimsuits.
🩴 1 pair of sandals – Chaco and Teva are both durable, reliable brands I’ve used for years, perfect for outdoor adventures to city exploring
🥾 1 pair of boots – Blundstone Boots are still my top all-around recommendation, but a solid pair of hiking boots also suffice, especially if you’re planning a trek like The Lost City.
👟 1 pair of sneakers – Your go-to, everyday shoes for exploring cities, towns, and more.
🩴 1 pair of “house shoes” or flip flops – For wearing around the hotel, or throwing on for a quick walk to the bodega. I recommend Havianas for durability.
🧦 5-7 pairs of socks – I recommend bringing a mix of lightweight everyday socks as well as throwing in a few thicker pairs if you plan on hiking while in Colombia.
🩲 7+ pairs of underwear – More if you have the space, no such thing as too much!
Accessories and Travel Essentials for Colombia
Of course, clothes aren’t all you’ll need when packing for Colombia. Here are a few of my go-to travel essentials I always bring to Colombia (any anywhere for that matter!)
💧 Filtered Water Bottle – Water generally isn’t potable throughout Colombia. Cut down on single-use plastic (and save your stomach!) with a filtered water bottle. Want to cut down on weight? Check out the LifeStraw
🎒 Anti-theft Backpack – Perfect for exploring big cities or trekking in the jungle. Colombia is much safer now than ever before, but it’s still important to be prepared, especially in the larger cities like Bogotá and Medellín
🧖♀️ Microfiber Travel Towel – This one packs down to the size of your hand, making it perfect for throwing in your bag when you go explore that waterfall!
🔐 Mini Padlock – Perfect for securing your backpack or locking up your items at the hotel or even on a long-haul bus ride.
🔦Headlamp – Perfect for keeping your hands free while camping, exploring, or simply trying not to wake up other travelers in the hostel!
⛑️Travel Insurance – A travel non-negotiable. Safetywing Nomad Insurance has been my go-to for years, but Visitors Coverage is also great for shorter trips.
Electronics to Pack for Colombia
From helping you stay connected to documenting your trip, here are some of my go-to tech essentials I pack on every trip to Colombia.
📲eSIM – Airalo eSim will have you connected from the moment your plane lands in Colombia, keeping you safe across the country!
🔌 Portable Charger – Keeping your phone charged is essential for staying safe in Colombia, and this portable charger can charge your phone up to 3 times.
🔋 Universal Travel Adapter – Colombia uses Type A and Type B outlets, but it’s still important to use a universal adapter to account for voltage differences and protect your devices.
📸Camera or GoPro – You’ll need to capture all your favorite moments in Colombia! I love my GoPro action cam – it’s compact, water resistant, and shoots in 4k!
Toiletries to Pack for Colombia
Staying clean on the road is essential – not just for yourself but also the people around you! Here are some of my essential toiletries I bring on any trip to Colombia.
🧴Reef-safe Sunscreen – If you’re planning on visiting the Caribbean coast, having reef-safe sunscreen is essential to protect the wildlife!
🐛DEET Bug Spray – The mosquitos in Colombia can be vicious, so a spray high in DEET will help keep you sane in buggy areas.
🧼Shampoo Bar – Cut down on single use plastic with a shampoo bar, which can be used just by adding a little water! This one comes in a variety of colors for different hair types!
🏥First aid kit – Vital for travel anywhere to treat cuts, scrapes, or infections. This compact kit includes all the essentials.
💊Prescription medication – Make sure not to forget your prescription meds at home! I use a pillbox to help organize my meds on shorter trips to ensure I have enough to last me.
🪳Malaria tablets – Malaria is not common in Colombia, but it is recommended to take anti-malarials before traveling to the Amazon and Pacific Regions of Colombia. You can get these from your doctor before traveling, or at most pharmacies in Colombia (though it is recommended to begin taking them at least 48 hours before traveling to a high-risk area!)
🤢Pepto Bismol – Colombian food is generally safe and delicious, but traveling can certainly do a number on your stomach. Being prepared with some Pepto Bismol never hurts in a pinch!
Best Luggage for Visiting Colombia
While I am a backpack girl all the way, the best luggage for visiting Colombia certainly depends on your travel style.
I personally prefer a backpack for flexibility and weight, especially as most of the time I’m traveling on the back of my motorcycle! But admittedly, the older I get, the more I can see the appeal of a proper suitcase as I lug my backpack through the airport!
Of course, the luggage you choose also depends on how long you’re planning to travel. I personally love to travel carry-on only even for longer trips, as it helps me cut down on impulsive purchases and weight. But if you’re planning on staying a long time or buying lots of souvenirs, you’ll want to make sure you’ve planned accordingly!
Here are a few luggage options in different styles I personally recommend for a trip to Colombia, for every travel style!
Best Backpacks for Colombia
$ Forclaz Travel 500 40L Organizer – I’ve been using and loving this bag for nearly a year now, and I can’t sing its praises high enough! It’s a backpack that opens like a suitcase, with individual sections that work like packing cubes to keep all my things organized. It’s budget-friendly and carry-on compliant, plus it’s waterproof, keeping my things dry if I get caught in a rainstorm on my moto!
$$ Osprey Rook 50L Backpacking Backpack – More of a traditional-style backpacking rucksack, the Osprey Rook is spacious, waterproof, and extremely durable. I used this bag on a 100km hike through Turkey and loved its back frame and hip supports to help with the weight during a trek. If you’re planning on doing a lot of trekking during your time in Colombia, I can’t recommend this bag enough.
$$$ Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack – The Cotopaxi Allpa Pack is perhaps the best all-around travel bag on the market right now. Similar in style to the Forclaz organizer, it opens like a suitcase, with individual compartments to help organize your things. The bag is extremely durable, lightweight, and waterproof, making it the perfect travel companion for any scenario.
On top of my 40L Travel Organizer, I also carry this small camera backpack I use as my personal item on planes. I love that it doesn’t scream “camera backpack,” but it has tons of sections and security for my electronics!
Best Suitcases for Colombia
$ Amazon Basics Hardshell Carry-on Luggage – A compact and budget-friendly option, this hardshell roller bag from Amazon Basics is the perfect companion for shorter trips. The bag also expands, meaning you’ll have extra space for souvenirs on your way home!
$$ American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Luggage – This expandable, hardshell suitcase is compact, durable, and stylish, coming in a variety of colors and styles. The inside features compartments to help keep your items organized, and the best part – a 10 year warranty means you’ll be traveling for years to come!
$$$ July Carry-On Pro – This hardshell luggage is not just stylish, compact, and waterproof, it also comes with a USB port and built in battery! You’ll no longer need to hunt for an outlet at the airport, just store your laptop in the front compartment and let it charge up. The case is also made from a polycarbonate shell, making it a durable companion for any trip.
What Not to Pack for Colombia
Park of the skill of packing is as much knowing what to bring as what NOT to bring! Here are a few things I don’t recommend packing for Colombia.
👑 Unnecessary Valuables – There’s a Colombian expression, “no dar papaya,” which literally means “don’t give papaya!” Basically, don’t make yourself a target – leave unnecessary valuables at home, don’t flaunt expensive jewelry, and don’t draw too much attention to yourself as a foreigner. While Colombia is a safe place to visit, petty theft is still common in certain areas, so I recommend leaving your valuables at home.
👠High Heeled Shoes – With the mountain roads and uneven sidewalks, your high heels will likely end up collecting dust in your suitcase! But hey, I understand wanting to look cute! I recommend bringing a pair of sandals that doubles as shoes for going out, or even buying a pair of heels once in Colombia (you’ll find plenty of options!)
Lots of Cash – Similar to the unnecessary valuables, carrying lots of cash on you is the definition of giving papaya! If you need to take out a lot of cash at once, I highly recommend leaving some of it safe at your accommodation while out and about during the day.
Why Visit Colombia?
There are so many reasons to love Colombia the list could go on and on! From the tropical islands of San Andres to the colorful streets of Salento, there’s no shortage of things to do in every corner of the country.
With so much to love, it’s hard to know exactly where to begin planning a trip. That’s why I hope this Colombia packing list has been helpful so you can start parking, whether you’re heading for the sunny city of Medellín or the salsa capital of Cali. Basically, when in doubt, think layers, versatility, and comfort!
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Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.