Wondering what to wear in Colombia?
Continue reading for a detailed Colombia Packing List or download the PDF.
Planning a trip to Colombia? You’re in for a treat! With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Colombia is a top-notch destination for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Bogotá, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Cartagena, or hiking through the lush coffee region, you’ll find something to fall in love with in this beautiful country. I’ve traveled to Colombia with my family, and it’s easily one of our favorite destinations.
One of the best parts about packing for Colombia is the weather. Luckily, it’s relatively warm year-round, making it easy to pack light. For most popular tourist locations, you won’t need to worry about heavy coats or bulky layers.
But knowing what to wear in Colombia is key to staying comfortable and blending in with the locals. From breezy sundresses to comfy walking shoes, there are a few essentials you shouldn’t leave home without.
In this guide, I’ll break down the ultimate Colombia packing list to help you prepare for your adventure. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo trip, these tips will ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey. So, grab your suitcase, and let’s dive into what you should pack for an unforgettable trip to Colombia!
What to Wear in Colombia: Style Tips
Colombia has a variety of destinations, from coastal towns to mountainous cities. So, what to wear in Colombia can vary based on what parts of the country you plan to visit. Below are a few style tips for some of Colombia’s most popular destinations.
One thing to note is that jeans are very popular in South America, and are worn by locals and tourists alike. So, if you are looking to fit in you definitely can’t go wrong with a great pair of jeans.
What to Wear in Cartagena
Located along the Caribbean coastline, Cartagena is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and beautiful beaches. As for what to wear in Cartagena, keep it fun and colorful. A flowy sundress or shorts and a cute top work perfectly.
The temperature in Cartagena is relatively consistent throughout the year with the average low being 77℉ and the average high being 88℉. Likewise, it’s rather humid as well, with an average of 79%-81%.
Therefore, make sure to pack clothing that is lightweight and breezy.
What to Wear in Medellin
Like Cartagena, the high temperature in Medellin remains around 82℉ throughout the year with the low being around 63℉. The consistent average temperature leads locals in Medellin to wear jeans, both day and night.
During the day, you can be more casual with jeans and a shirt or a crop top. However, if you are going out to enjoy the nightlife then you’ll want to dress up a bit. Something like form-fitting jeans with a stylish top or a flirty dress would be perfect for a night out in Medellin.
While you want to dress to impress while enjoying the nightlife in Medellin, it’s best to leave expensive jewelry or accessories at home as there are pickpockets.
What to Wear in Bogota
Bogota is one of the colder cities in Colombia, with an average high temperature of 67℉ and a low of 46℉ throughout the year. So you’ll want to make sure to pack layers. It can easily go from cold in the morning to hot in the afternoon, so it’s good to have options regarding what to wear in Bogota.
In general, Bogota is a cosmopolitan city, and people tend to dress more sophisticated. Think dark-wash jeans, leather jackets, bodysuits, ankle boots, etc. The style in Bogota is similar to other large cities like New York City.
What to Wear in Colombia during the Day
One thing about Colombia is that there aren’t rules when it comes to what to wear, so you can wear what you feel most comfortable in. However, the below pieces are commonly worn by locals and tourists alike and are great choices for what to wear in Colombia.
For many vacation destinations in Colombia, it can often be pretty hot and humid during the daytime, so wearing lightweight clothing like linen or cotton are great option for the daytime. Of course, this can vary based on exactly when and where you go in Colombia.
Jeans
Jeans are a great option when visiting Colombia, especially in places like Botoga where the weather is cooler. For warmer destinations, you can opt for a pair of jean shorts during the day.
Jeans are great because they are versatile, you can either dress them up for going out at night or keep them more casual for a daytime look.
Now some of you may be like me and don’t necessarily like to wear jeans in hot weather as they stick to you and can become uncomfortable. This is when I opt for lighter-weight jeans and jeans with a looser fit. These styles are way more comfortable for me to wear in the summer- providing the look I’m going for but the comfort I need.
Colorful Tops
You’ll of course want to pack a variety of tops for your trip to Colombia. This will include more casual wear like lightweight t-shirts and tank tops and also more dressy tops for nighttime.
In places like Medellin, you’ll see people wearing crop tops paired with jeans, while along the coast cute and colorful shirts are popular. If you’ll be in hot and humid temperatures, be sure to pack shirts that are lightweight and lighter colors.
Flowy Dresses
If you are heading to Cartagena or somewhere warm, then packing a few flowy dresses is a perfect choice. Sundresses are great for the heat because they are lightweight and breezy.
Plus, sundresses tend to be colorful and fun, which matches the vibrant atmosphere of Cartagena.
Skirts
Skirts are another great option for places like Cartagena as most skirts are lightweight and breezy, which is great for the heat. Plus, they don’t take up too much space in your luggage. You can also easily wear most skirts for either day or night, which makes it a useful piece to add to your Colombia packing list.
Rompers
Rompers are my personal jam- this can be an athletic one-piece that I wear on travel day with a jean jacket or oversized sweatshirt around my waist, or a more dressy romper that I wear during a night out on the town. What I love about wearing rompers while I travel is that they’re simple, you don’t have to think about matching a top with a bottom and they’re easy to accessorize with statement jewelry.
Plus, they’re great to wear in places like Colombia because they’re normally cute and a little flirty- which totally fits the vibe of places like Cartagena.
2-Piece Sets
Another one of my favorite outfits to pack, is a 2-piece set, as they allow so much versatility. You can wear the pieces separately or as a set, easily turning 1 outfit into 3. Plus they come in a variety of styles, allowing you to wear a style that best fits your Colombia destination- more lightweight and flirty in Cartagena and more cosmopolitan and sophisticated in Bogota.
Jackets
In the cooler parts of the country, make sure to bring a jacket so that you can layer clothing. For a stylish option, you can’t go wrong with a leather or denim jacket.
Even in some of the places along the coast, it can be breezy at night, so having a lightweight jacket is a good idea.
Colombia Packing List for the Beach
Colombia has some incredible beaches that are worth visiting. Below are some ideas of what to bring to Colombia if you plan on visiting the beaches.
Swimsuits
If you’re headed to somewhere along the Caribbean coast, you’ll want to pack a few different swimsuits!
I recommend bringing a swimsuit you love to lounge on the beach in, like a cute bikini or colorful tankini, plus bringing a one-piece suit or bikini that is good for swimming or other activities.
Coverups
Bringing a beach coverup is a must for any beach vacation. The good thing about coverups is that you have a variety of options, from sundresses, sarongs, caftans, wrap dresses, and more. Plus, some of these coverups could double as a casual daytime outfit.
Sun Hats
Sun hats are perfect ways to protect your face from the sun, plus they are a stylish addition to any outfit. Most sunhats are rollable and can easily fit into your luggage. However, if you choose one that does not, this magnetic travel hat clip works magic!
Sunglasses
Another must-have for the beach is a cute pair of sunglasses. Not only do they protect your eyes from Colombia’s strong sun rays, but they also enhance your outfit. And if you’re like me and can’t just bring one pair, this compact sunglass organizer fits up to 5 pairs!
Beach Bag
Having a good beach bag is essential for any beach trip, as you’ll want an easy way to carry your stuff to and from the beach. For those looking to keep their belongings safe from water, consider a waterproof beach bag or a waterproof pouch so that you’re able to bring your valuables with you into the water. A straw bag is great for those who want something more versatile as it can also be used while exploring the town or out at night.
What to Wear in Colombia at Night
Depending on where you are in Colombia, nighttime can get chilly. Along the coastline, you’ll be fine with a light jacket or you may not need a jacket at all. In other places, like Bogota, you’ll want to bring something warmer such as a leather jacket.
What to Wear for a Night Out in Colombia
If you plan on going out to enjoy the nightlife in one of Colombia’s cities, you’ll want to dress up. Outfits such as your best jeans with a stylish top are perfect. Women in Colombia tend to wear clothes that accentuate curves when going out, so feel free to bring some form-fitting jeans or dresses.
Again, just leave any expensive jewelry or accessories at home. While you want to look stylish enough to fit in you also don’t want any super expensive pieces that would make you stand out to pickpockets.
What to Wear in Colombia by Season
Colombia has wet and dry seasons. The dry season is from December to March and June to August, while the wet season is from April to May and September to November.
Although there are wet and dry seasons, temperatures stay pretty consistent in most of the cities year-round.
For example, Cartagena stays warm most of the year with average temperatures of 75°-88° F year-round. On the other hand, Bogota is much cooler with average temperatures of 47°-68°F year-round.
So, while it is important to consider the season, it is also important to consider what places you plan to visit when creating your Columbia packing list.
The Dry Season
The dry season is the best time to visit Colombia, as the weather is typically nice and sunny. You’ll definitely want to pack some sunglasses when visiting at this time of year.
Especially along the coast and in cities like Cartagena, the weather can get pretty hot and humid, so lightweight clothing options are ideal.
The Wet Season
During the wet season, rain is common, so you’ll want to bring a rain jacket. If you are visiting one of the warmer areas then a lightweight rain jacket is a good option. It’s also a good idea to have a warmer jacket in case it gets chilly.
Thunderstorms, wind, and fog can also be common during the wet season, so it’s good to be prepared for a mix of weather when traveling during this season.
What Not to Wear in Colombia
There aren’t strict rules about what to wear in Colombia, however, if you want to blend in there are some things to keep in mind. The first is that in cities like Bogota, you won’t see people walking around in flip-flops and shorts. Instead, plan for jeans, pants, or a dress.
The other thing to keep in mind is to not wear expensive items, including flashy accessories or jewelry as there can be pickpockets throughout the country.
Colombia Packing List: Must-Have Toiletries
Sunscreen
Colombia is close to the equator, so the sun can be very strong. You’ll definitely want to bring some sunscreen, especially to places like Cartagena.
Aloe
I always bring some Aloe anytime I go on a beach vacation, just in case of a sunburn!
Bug Spray
No matter where you go in Colombia, you’ll want to pack some bug spray to protect against mosquitos. They are especially common around coastal areas.
Facial Wipes
Face wipes are great for removing makeup or for simply freshening up real quick after spending the afternoon at the beach.
Colombia Packing List: Must-Have Essentials
Travel Insurance
Anytime you are traveling internationally, having good travel insurance is a must-have. U.S. health insurance doesn’t work in Colombia, so you’ll need to have travel insurance just in case of any medical issues or prescriptions you may need while traveling.
Travel insurance also has other benefits depending on your plan and might be able to help in case of unexpected changes, delays, or lost luggage.
👉 Get a quote from the travel insurance I used in Colombia 👈
Waterproof Phone Case
If you are visiting the beach, definitely pack a waterproof phone pouch. Not only does it allow you to bring your phone out into the water for pictures, but it also keeps it safe from any pickpockets that may be on the beach.
Camera Tripod
I recommend bringing a small, portable tripod for your phone or camera. I absolutely love this one and I don’t travel without it. This way you can capture some incredible pictures while on your trip.
What to Pack for a Week in Colombia
Below, you’ll find a Colombia packing list that will give you some ideas of what to pack for Colombia.
Clothing & Shoes
- 3 pairs of jeans, shorts, or skirts
- 3 lightweight dresses
- 5-7 shirts
- Light jacket
- Undergarments
- Cute sandals or flats
- Activewear sandals or shoes
Beach Wear
- 5-6 swimsuits
- 2-3 cover-ups
- Beach Bag
- Sunglasses
- Sun Hat
- Flip Flops
Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Aloe
- Bug Spray
- Facial Wipes
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Makeup
- Facial wipes
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Waterproof phone case
- Tripod for camera
- Headphones
- Bluetooth speaker
Colombia Packing List FAQ
Most people in Colombia wear Western-style clothes, including jeans, dresses, and t-shirts. In some of the cities such as Bogota, people dress more sophisticated and in business casual, while in places like Cartagena, outfits are commonly more of a laid-back vibe with bright colors.
Cartagena is a tropical destination, so dressing for warm weather is key. Outfits like shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and maxi dresses are perfect for this. It is also a great place to wear pastel or bright colors, as the atmosphere of the city is very fun and vibrant.
You can wear shorts in Colombia, although shorts are not worn everywhere. You will see people wearing shorts in warmer places, such as Cartagena. Shorts are also popular for hiking and activewear. In cities like Medellin and Bogota, people typically wear jeans rather than shorts.
The Wrap-Up: What to Wear in Colombia
There are so many great options when it comes to what to wear in Colombia, from colorful dresses to flirty swimsuits. This Colombia packing list should help you decide on some of the best outfits for Colombia, which will make you feel confident while on your trip.
