Colombia Packing List

A trip to Colombia can be the adventure of a lifetime, with chances to visit the Amazon rainforest, hike in the Andes mountains, and relax on Caribbean beaches. However, these drastically different climates make packing for a trip to Colombia confusing. How are you supposed to fit everything you need into a single bag? 

To help you navigate this process, I’ve created a detailed Colombia packing list. I’ve recommended what to bring and what not to bring to Colombia based on my own experience backpacking through the country. 

As a bonus, all of these items should fit comfortably into a carry-on compliant 45 L backpack, allowing you to pack light, economically, and conveniently. This packing list is also a good starting point if you’re planning to continue on from Colombia to backpack through South America, as I did.

Check out my guide to packing light, which might come in handy as you pack for Colombia!

Related Articles:
Colombia Travel Guide
Colombia Itineraries
Colombia Transportation
Colombia Safety Tips

Colombia Packing List

Bags to Pack to Colombia

Backpack with Rain Cover, ~45 L

The contents of this Colombia packing list should fit into a carry-on size (45 L) backpack. A backpack is great for navigating Colombia’s buses and cobblestone streets. However a suitcase would work just fine as well! For a backpack, choose one that is durable, high quality, and comfortable. It needs to hold up to occasional rough handling on public transportation.

Women’s Backpack
Men’s Backpack

Daypack with Rain Cover, ~25 L

Include a daypack on your Colombia packing list. You’ll use it a lot for hikes and other excursions. Pick one that is durable and will last for years!

Recommended Daypack

Cross-Body Bag

Get a small bag that you can keep with you at all times, whether walking around the hostel or sleeping on a bus. Use it to carry the amount of cash you will need for the day, along with 1-2 debit or credit cards. When traveling in Colombia, I also pack mine with a small bag of medicine, a covid mask, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

Lightweight Tote Bag

A tote bag is a great multi-functional item for your Colombia packing list. You can use a tote bag for carrying larger items like water bottles or groceries around the city. You’ll also use it a lot if you’re staying in a hostel (for instance, to bring your towel, toiletries, and clothes into the shower area). 

Valuables

When traveling in Colombia, leave as many of your valuables as possible locked away in your accommodation for safekeeping. Although it’s not as common these days, you may need to notify your bank before being able to use your cards abroad.

Lightweight Wallet

Passport

Debit Card

Credit Card. I use the Chase Sapphire card, which rewards me with substantial points for travel-related purchases.

Cash

Travel Insurance. I use SafetyWing, which is the most affordable option I’ve found that also offers excellent coverage.

Proof of Onward Travel. Proof of onward travel is often a requirement when entering Colombia. If your departure date is uncertain, use Onward Ticket to generate a temporary ticket.

Electronics Packing List for Colombia

eSIM or Local SIM Card

Phone. Pick a strong screen cover and case for your phone – it will inevitably face some rough handling during your travels through Colombia.

Headphones

Chargers

Adaptor, if needed. For US electronics, you don’t need to include an adaptor on your packing list.

Portable Charger. This will come in handy for long bus rides or if there’s no outlet next to your hostel bed.

I encourage you not to take any large electronics with you to Colombia. Use your phone to look up essential information and spend your free time immersing yourself in your destinations. If you really can’t go without technology, bring a lightweight tablet instead of a laptop. Also consider adding a Kindle to your Colombia packing list to avoid carrying around heavy books.

Toiletries to Bring to Colombia

When traveling to Colombia, bring your usual toiletries (packed into small containers) or buy them once you arrive. Make sure to include the following:

Hanging Toiletry Bag. Most hostel shower areas have hooks, but no shelves for your personal items. I use a tote bag, but a hanging toiletry bag would be better for organizing your items.

Mosquito Repellent. You absolutely need bug spray in Colombia. Mosquitos are brutal in many areas, including major cities. I love this mosquito spray because it is chemical free and better for your skin, and I found it to be just as effective as DEET-containing spray. Also include long, loose layers on your Colombia packing list. You’ll want additional protection from bites and mosquito-borne diseases. 

Sunscreen. The sun in Colombia is very strong, so prevent a bad sunburn from ruining your trip. I recommend this reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the beautiful ocean ecosystem.

Lip Balm with SPF

Bar Soap. Stored it in a plastic bag, it will take up much less space than liquid shower gel.

Bar Shampoo. Much easier to travel with than liquid shampoo.

Tissues or Toilet Paper. Many public restrooms in Colombia don’t provide toilet paper.

Hand Sanitizer. Public restrooms in Colombia also often don’t have soap.

Wet Wipes. To freshen up during a hike or on long travel days.

Earplugs and Eye Mask. These are a Colombia packing list essential if you’re staying in hostels and are a sensitive sleeper.

Medicine. When traveling to Colombia, bring items such as painkillers, stomach medicine, and motion sickness tablets. Birth control pills are affordable and available over the counter in Colombia.

Electrolyte Tablets. Protect against dehydration on hot and humid hikes.

Vitamins. Stay on top of your health when traveling in Colombia!

Nail Clippers. Cut your nails before doing any hikes, your feet will thank you.

Makeup. Bring only a few makeup items to Colombia. A minimal look holds up better in heat and humidity. I usually bring eyeliner, eyeshadow, mascara, a brow pencil, and one lipstick. Cosmetics are easy to find in Colombia if you find yourself missing something while on your trip!

Menstrual Cup. Something to include on Colombia packing lists for females. Menstrual cups are better for the environment, take up less space, and can be left in place for 12 hours at a time.

Shoes to Pack for Colombia

You can get by with bringing 2 pairs of shoes to Colombia. Bring a third pair if you’d like to dress up a little. Ladies, there is no need to bring heels unless you really want to dress up. You’ll see many Colombian women heading out in sneakers.

Comfortable sandals. Use these for everyday walking around the city.

Sneakers (optional). Bring these if you want to dress up a little, go salsa dancing, or do some weight training at the gym. I like packing Keds and Converse.

Trail Runners. Light trail runners are sufficient for traveling in Colombia, since most of the touristic hikes don’t require heavy duty hiking shoes. Bring sturdier shoes only if you plan to trek high in the Andes.
Women’s Trail Runners
Men’s Trail Runners

Clothes Packing List for Colombia

Clothes and shoes will occupy the bulk of your bag, and I’ve written in depth about how to pack strategically while still looking good here. You’ll need to pack for a range of temperatures, from chilly Bogotá to hot and humid Cartagena.

Now, what exactly should you wear in Colombia?

Keep in mind that Colombians dress well and you don’t want to stand out as an underdressed tourist. Please, don’t wear flip flops or hiking boots for a night out! Bring one nicer outfit that can transition from day to night. There’s no need to stick to shades of black or beige; Colombians love colorful clothing. If you’re not sure what clothes to bring to Colombia, buy an outfit during your trip. Colombia has fantastic and affordable opportunities for clothes shopping!

Female Travelers: What Clothes to Bring to Colombia

Next, let’s talk about what female travelers should pack for Colombia. Ladies, you have more freedom in expressing your style in Colombia. Local women often wear clothes that showcase their figures and don’t limit themselves to conservative options. However, as a solo female traveler, I tend to dress more conservatively to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

How Much and What Type of Clothes to Pack

Same-day laundry service is readily available and affordable, so there’s no need to include too much clothes on your Colombia packing list. You can also hand-wash items like socks and underwear with laundry bar soap.

The clothing listed below covers all major tourist destinations in Colombia. If you plan to travel off the beaten path for high-altitude trekking, pack more cold weather gear accordingly. The clothing suggestions I’ve provided should give you plenty of outfit options, even for a multi-week trip to Colombia. As a fashion lover, I know how annoying it can be to feel like you’re constantly wearing the same thing!

Tops

• Athletic Top (1)
• Quick-Dry T-Shirt (1)
  • Women’s T-Shirt
  • Men’s T-Shirt
• Normal T-Shirt (1)
• Nice but Comfortable Top (1)

Bottoms

• Athletic Shorts (1)
• Lightweight Dresses (1-2). I recommend buying these in Colombia! You’ll find dresses in beautiful colors and prints that are not sold back home.
• Midi Skirt (1)
• Maxi Dress (1)
• Linen Pants (1)
• Hiking Pants (1). Invest in quality hiking pants that are not only functional for outdoor activities but also stylish for travel days, lounging, or gym sessions. A slightly loose fit means they won’t cling to you in hot weather and allows for layering thermals underneath in cold weather. 
  • Women’s Hiking Pants
  • Men’s Hiking Pants

Additional Layers

• Chambray Shirt (1). Useful for chilly evenings or as a mosquito-proof layer in Colombia’s tropics.
• Lightweight Fleece Sweater (1)
• Flannel Shirt (1). I love that these are soft, warm, and versatile. I’ve worn mine both around the city and on hikes.
  • Women’s Flannel Shirt
  • Men’s Flannel Shirt
• Thermal Leggings (1)
• Puffy Jacket. Useful when traveling to colder high-elevation destinations in Colombia or on frigid bus rides.
  • Women’s Puffy Jacket
  • Men’s Puffy Jacket
• Rain jacket. The weather forecast in Colombia is not always accurate, and it’s very likely that it will rain at some point on your trip!
  • Women’s Rain Jacket
  • Men’s Rain Jacket

Undergarments

• Underwear (7)
• Midweight Hiking Socks (1)
  • Women’s Socks
  • Men’s Socks
• Light Hiking Socks (1)
• Normal Socks (2)
• Bra (1)
• Sports Bra (1)

Colombia Packing List: Accessories

Light Scarf (1). Doubles as a towel or beach blanket. I also use mine as a beach cover-up, for sun and mosquito protection, and as an extra layer when it’s chilly.  

Swimsuits (1-2)

Headbands or Buffs (2). For hot sweaty days or when you can’t be bothered to wash your hair. 

Jewelry. Don’t bring anything expensive that will make you stand out as a tourist in Colombia. Also consider buying some of the local Colombian jewelry.

Sun Hat. Colombia’s sun is very strong, and you don’t want a sunburn or skin damage.

Sunglasses. Protect your eyes from the sun as well.

Colombia Packing List: Miscellaneous Items

Microfiber Towel. Most hostels in Colombia don’t provide towels, and even if yours does you’ll want a separate towel for the beach.

Tupperware Container. Use this to store your food in the hostel kitchen, or to bring leftovers home from restaurants. I’m rarely able to finish the gigantic “menu del dia” lunch portions in Colombia! Restaurants don’t usually provide to-go containers, instead offering a flimsy plastic bag.

Lock. Keep your belongings safe in hostel lockers. Get a flexible lock because every hostel has differently shaped lockers.

Lighter. Even if you don’t smoke, you’ll need this to ignite hostel stoves in Colombia.

Colombia Packing List: Organizational Items

Packing Cubes. These are an essential item for any Colombia packing list! Packing cubes will help keep you organized, especially if you’re staying in places with limited personal space like hostels.

Compression Bag (optional). Use it to condense your bulkier clothing, or to store laundry in.

Ziploc Bags. Bring a few in various sizes to organize miscellaneous items.

Optional Items to Pack for Colombia

LifeStraw. In some parts of Colombia the water is not safe to drink. Your accommodation may provide purified water, but it’s best to be prepared with a filter that ensures you always have clean drinking water.

Headlamp. A headlamp is useful if you’re staying at an eco-hostel in Colombia or spending a night in Tayrona National Park. Otherwise, your phone flashlight is usually sufficient to find your away around a dormitory room in the dark.

Book, Journal, or Kindle. Keep yourself entertained on long bus rides in Colombia. Many hostels have a small library where you can exchange books. 

Cooking Oil, Spices, etc. Hostels don’t always provide cooking oil or salt in their kitchens. Carry small quantities in bottles or bags.

Colombia Packing List: Hiking & Camping Equipment

Colombia’s popular hikes only require good trail runners or hiking shoes and a daypack. The trails are not technically difficult and do not require trekking poles. 

If you’re sticking to Colombia’s main tourist destinations, you will not need to pack any camping equipment. You do not need camping gear to do the Lost City Trek either.

If you’d like to trek through lesser-visited places in Colombia, I recommend bringing your own gear from home. It’s difficult to find high-quality camping equipment in Colombia, and prices are often higher than they would be back home because these items are imported.
Take a look at my backpacking gear recommendations for more ideas.

Thanks for reading! I hope this Colombia packing list is helpful as you prepare for your trip. Questions? Thoughts? Let me know in the comments.

Looking for more Colombia travel tips and destination guides? Head to my Colombia page.

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