Colombia packing list: essential things you need for your trip

Discovering a new travel destination is always exciting! Colombia is a perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of climates, landscapes, and activities. Because of this, there are some key aspects to have in mind when getting your things ready to visit. These are the essentials you need to include in your Colombia packing list.

Colombia packing list 101

A trip to Colombia calls for a few key items to pack in your bag. Sunscreen is one of them, since the climate can be a bit volatile here. You would be amazed by how quickly a cloudy day in Bogotá, for example, can turn into a sunny one.

Another necessity, especially when planning to visit high-temperature or rural areas, is mosquito repellent. It is particularly important when in jungle areas, where mosquitoes may carry viruses, such as malaria or yellow fever.

If you are visiting high-risk areas, it is also recommended to bring proof of vaccination for yellow fever. It is known as the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), or yellow card. Keep in mind all national natural parks in Colombia do require travelers to be vaccinated at least 15 days before arriving. Search for a yellow fever vaccination clinic near you here. You can read about other tips to prepare medically for your trip to Colombia here. 

Lastly, a camera is also a Colombia packing list basic. You will, for sure, want to immortalize our striking views, plus your wonderful new memories, through photographs.

What should you pack to wear?

Colombia does not have seasons due to its location. This means you need to plan your daily attires with some other variables in mind.

To start, Colombia exhibits pretty much every climate there is. About 80% of the country has warm temperatures, of 75 °F on average. Summery clothes are ideal for such places. You will need sweaters and jackets in temperate zones of between 62 and 69 °F, especially for night time. Remember that in Colombia, the more you go up in altitude, the lower the temperature.

Some other things can play into which items of clothing make it into your Colombia packing list. If visiting our coasts or areas covered by rivers, you will need a bathing suit and flip-flops for sure. This also applies to warm locations where you can spend some time poolside.

Natural parks or other nature spots are best enjoyed with proper footwear, such as sneakers or hiking shoes. Long-sleeve lightweight shirts and pants are also a good idea in hot, humid locations, to avoid bug bites.

Raincoats and umbrellas are also a sensible consideration, since rain is frequent in many locations during certain times of the year. Usually, rainy season begins in April and goes all the way to June. October and November are also months of high precipitations. Read more about the best time to visit Colombia here. 

What to buy in Colombia?

Some travelers pack lightly in order to shop locally for whatever they need. This is a valid option to consider, especially if you want to take a piece of Colombia home with you.

There are plenty of traditional hats you can buy to guard yourself from sunlight. One of the most renowned is the sombrero vueltiao, made from arrow cane fiber. It usually features designs that symbolize natural elements of the Zenú indigenous culture.

To keep warm in some of Colombia’s colder places, a ruana is a perfect purchase. These woven wool ponchos are a very traditional souvenir.

You can also get a mochila, which is an indigenous shoulder bag that has made its way to global fashion. Women artisans from different ethnic communities in Colombia weave these colorful items. You can check out an article of ours focused on the perfect Colombian souvenirs here. 

Pack Your Bags!

Now that you are familiar with the crucial items for your Colombia packing list, what are you waiting for? The best time to visit Colombia is now!

If you need help or guidance with the planning process of your trip to Colombia, don´t hesitate to contact us. We have a team of travel experts looking forward to help you have the best holiday of your life.