columbia travel pack

Still need a Father's Day gift? Shop Gift Cards

• Gift Registry
• Shop Your Store
• Furniture & Mattresses

WOMEN'S CLOTHING

Now trending, outdoor apparel & shoes, best sellers, featured brands, complete your look, shop by occasion, men's clothing, men's active & outdoor, men's big & tall, men's brands, men's shoes, bags & accessories, cologne & grooming, father's day gifts, 25-40% off activewear, girls' clothing, boys' clothing, shop toys "r" us, furniture & mattresses, electronics, cleaning & organization, outdoor living, beauty brands, new & noteworthy, beauty gifts, women's shoes, women's shoe brands, kids' shoes, shop women's sandals, handbags & wallets, accessories, sunglasses & eyewear, trending now, wedding jewelry, men's jewelry, living room furniture, dining room & kitchen furniture, bedroom furniture, outdoor & patio furniture, home office, entertainment & game room, toys by price, celebrate summer, gifts by category, spotlight picks, gifts by price, for every dad, for every personality, brand name gifts, macy's style crew picks, gifts for more occasions, new arrivals, summer trends, women's must haves, men's must haves, home must haves, wedding guest shop, names to know, contemporary, mission every one, women's, kids' & toys, handbags & accessories, jewelry & watches, sale & clearance, columbia backpacks.

• Sort by Featured Items Price: Low to High Price: High to Low Customers' Top Rated Best Sellers New Arrivals

Shopping at (2)

Same-day delivery isn't available for delivery to (2).

• Available at limited stores. Click on the store location link to see which stores are Curbside Pickup eligible.
• Once an order is made through Curbside Pickup, look for an email with specific instructions and pickup location for your store.
• Orders that are placed before noon will be available for same day pickup. Orders made after 12pm will be available for pick up the next business day.

Delivery & Pickup

• Limited-Time Special (1)
• Sales & Discounts (1)
• Special Offer (2)

Pick Up In-Store

• AD Sutton (1)
• Athalon (1)
• Avengers (1)
• Baggallini (20)
• Barbour (1)
• Bioworld (1)
• Brahmin (6)
• Bric's Milano (8)
• Briggs & Riley (10)
• Bugatti (1)
• Calvin Klein (10)
• Champion (1)
• Cole Haan (13)
• Columbia (2)
• Duchamp London (1)
• Eddie Bauer (12)
• Esin Akan (1)
• Geckobrands (9)
• Giani Bernini (5)
• Hartmann (1)
• High Sierra (11)
• Hugo Boss (1)
• I.N.C. International Concepts (6)
• Jansport (6)
• Jason Wu (1)
• Johnston & Murphy (2)
• KARL LAGERFELD PARIS (1)
• kate spade new york (1)
• Kenneth Cole Reaction (9)
• Kipling (34)
• Lauren Ralph Lauren (1)
• LIKE DREAMS (8)
• Little Mermaid (1)
• London Fog (1)
• Madden Girl (4)
• Mancini (1)
• Manhattan Portage (43)
• Mantis Yoga (1)
• McKlein (14)
• Michael Kors (12)
• Mickey Mouse (1)
• Minecraft (1)
• Moda Luxe (3)
• New Balance (6)
• Nine West (4)
• OLD TREND (17)
• Olivia Miller (1)
• Original Penguin (3)
• Outdoor Products (20)
• Patricia Nash (3)
• Paw Patrol (1)
• Perry Ellis (5)
• Peugeot (1)
• Pokemon (1)
• Polo Ralph Lauren (6)
• Radley London (9)
• Ricardo (3)
• Rockland (5)
• Rolling Stones (2)
• Sakroots (4)
• Samsonite (27)
• Save The Ocean (6)
• Smiggle (6)
• SOL AND SELENE (3)
• Spider-Man (1)
• Squishmallows (1)
• Star Wars (1)
• Steve Madden (1)
• Style & Co (3)
• Sun + Stone (5)
• SUPER MARIO (1)
• That Girl Lay Lay (1)
• The North Face (3)
• The Sak (11)
• Tommy Hilfiger (15)
• Traveler's Choice (1)
• Travelers Club (1)
• Travelon (14)
• Travelpro (5)
• TSD BRAND (33)
• UNICORN (1)
• Urban Originals (6)
• Victorinox (1)
• $40-$60 (2)

Customer's Top Rated

• 5 stars (0)
• 4 stars & up (1)
• 3 stars & up (1)

Discount Range

• 20% off & more (1)
• All Items (2)
• Free Pickup

• Showing All 2 Items

What to Pack for Colombia: Ultimate Colombia Packing List

Lounging on stunning Caribbean beaches, taking on mountainous hikes, exploring the muddy Cocora Valley, chasing waterfalls, exploring the nightlife in the fashionable “city of eternal spring” in Medellin… Colombia’s list of attractions is a mile long, but the sheer variety of things to do and climates to experience means that deciding what to pack for Colombia can be a bit tricky.

In Cartagena, it’s all about shorts, tank tops, and bathing suits.

In Medellin, you’ll want a light jacket to break out at night.

In the mud of the Cocora Valley, hiking boots will make your life much easier.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Planning a trip to charming Colombia?

Here’s what we suggest adding to your travel pack when making your Colombia packing list!

This packing list for Colombia is designed for a trip lasting 2-4 weeks that covers multiple climates in Colombia, and can easily be adapted to a larger packing list for South America if you’re continuing through the continent.

It also reflects a couple of our personal biases, ie, we don’t bother with carry-on only travel–so if you do, you’ll want to whittle this Colombia packing list down a bit!

Table of Contents

The Colombia Packing List Essentials

What to pack everything in, 10 things you should definitely pack for colombia, other useful travel gear for colombia, what to wear in colombia for women, what to wear in colombia for men, toiletries to bring to colombia, planning a trip.

Passport — Obvious, and yet vitally important.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without insurance–anything can happen, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Traveling to Colombia is generally quite safe, but also likely involves stepping outside your comfort zone and trying out new adventures in a foreign land… where you may or may not speak the language.

We use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Colombia, and got a lot of peace of mind from having our policy active during our trip.

Visa (If Needed) — Travelers from the USA, UK, Australia, EU, and beyond can currently enter Colombia for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.

However, like with all travel, it is best to double-check official resources for any changes before booking your ticket!

Money — The easiest way to get your hands on Colombian pesos is to withdraw it from an ATM in the country (preferably from a bank account that doesn’t charge foreign transaction or ATM fees).

We travel with 2 separate debit cards and 2 separate credit cards and recommend others do the same.

You may also want to consider carrying some USD with you in case of a card failure–it can be easily converted to Colombian pesos in-country.

Colombia is the perfect country for backpacking: backpacks are easy to carry around, easy to throw beneath buses, and so many other travelers carry them that you certainly won’t stand out.

Jeremy carries the Gregory Z 65 , and I carry the Osprey Women’s Ariel AG 55 (the Osprey Farpoint   is also extremely popular, and I would consider purchasing it if I were looking for a backpack today).

If you’re generally a light packer, you can probably comfortably go down 10 liters from the sizes we purchased, but we personally like having the flexibility of the extra space.

Both of our bags have held up perfectly to more than 2.5 years of full-time travel, including a month in Colombia and 8 months total in Latin America.

If you’d rather not carry a backpack, suitcases work perfectly fine as well, but we do recommend picking one that doesn’t stick out in any way (nothing fancy, in other words) and is extremely durable.

Bags aren’t treated particularly gently in Colombia, especially during bus travel.

You’ll also want to bring a day bag with you–we use and love this Swiss Gear Backpack , which has plenty of compartments for our laptops and cameras on travel days.

Unlike our backpacks, this one never travels under buses and planes and stays with us at all times when traveling.

However, when we go to purchase another day bag in the future, we’ll likely opt for one with a few more safety features, like this Pacsafe Backpack .

Our Pacsafe allows us to store our most valuable belongings (passports, laptops, etc) in our room without fear of theft–simply fill the safe, attach it to the sturdiest thing in the room (usually a pipe), and head out for the day with peace of mind.

While it won’t stop the most determined thief, that’s not really the point.

Deterring crimes of opportunity is by far the easiest way to protect yourself from property crime while traveling (and that goes for everywhere, not just Colombia).

SteriPen — Save money and avoid adding more plastic to the Earth–a SteriPen is a win/win. We’ve used ours in more than a dozen countries over the years, including in Colombia, and never gotten sick from the water.

The tap water is safe to drink in some areas of Colombia (like Medellin), but not others (like the Caribbean coast).

Always double-check when you get to a new area!

Opt for the wide-mouthed version in order to make the water sterilization process easier, and also because the bottle is so much easier to clean that way.

Travel Adaptors for Colombia   — Colombia uses plugs and voltage that are compatible with US devices–if you’re coming from somewhere that uses a different system, you’ll want to pick up some adaptors before you arrive.

You’ll want to have a dry bag on your Colombia packing list: a dry bag will allow you to safely bring your electronics, passports, etc, along without fear of damage, and will even allow you to swim to shore from a boat with your camera!

Colombia’s winding mountain roads that are near-synonymous with bus travel in the country are no joke.

Avoid extra expenses and having to track it down on the road by adding it to your packing list for Colombia.

Portable USB Charger — Don’t worry about your phone dying on a long bus ride: bring a portable USB charger along to ensure you always have more than one charge available.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Cards — The US recommends Yellow Fever vaccinations for entry into Colombia, though it is not required as of the time of writing.

Theoretically, you need to present the card to enter Tayrona National Park, but our understanding is that this is very rarely enforced (we weren’t checked).

Regardless, the shot is good for 10 years (some agencies are now saying forever–always check updated research before traveling) and will absolutely be necessary if you’re headed further into South America, so it’s a good idea to have it taken care of.

Camera & Gear — If you’re not into photography, a cell phone might be all the camera you want to bring on your trip, and that’s totally fine!

If you are into photography, though, you’ll want to bring both your camera (we recommend just 1-2 lenses), extra batteries and chargers, memory cards , and a memory card case ( we love this one ).

We also love having our tripod and a wireless remote with us for selfies of the two of us.

Whistle  — Slight overkill? Maybe, but we are glad to have a safety whistle with us when we go hiking.

They’re also incredibly long-lasting–we’ve been carrying ours with us for nearly 3 years and it barely shows any signs of wear.

If you’d like to bring a money belt to Colombia, we can recommend this one as being durable and reasonably comfortable to wear.

Over-the-Counter Medicine — In addition to motion sickness medication, we like to always have Pepto Bismol and some kind of painkiller with us on the road.

For Colombia, you may want to also consider bringing some Imodium with you as well.

Rain Poncho — Odds are that you will need to break this out in or near the Cocora Valley!

3-5 Lightweight Dresses — I personally love to wear dresses and tend to wear them most of the time, however, if you’re traveling as a solo female traveler, be aware that some women do report increased harassment on the street when they are wearing short dresses in Latin America.

That didn’t stop most of the solo female travelers I know from wearing them, but it is something to be aware of.

Dresses like these are common and what I tend to wear in Latin America, and long, flowy maxi dresses like this one are a great option as well.

I also always like to have one very casual dress with me that doubles as my coverup walking to and from the beach.

3-5 Skirts & Shorts — I recommend making at least one of these a pair of fast-drying workout shorts that can be used for hiking or a beach coverup.

1 Pair Harem Pants —   Lightweight and loose-fitting, harem pants (aka elephant pants in Southeast Asia) are practically a backpacker uniform.

That is because they are incredibly comfortable while also being cool, casual, and reasonably modest for places where modesty is the more comfortable option.

They’re also my absolute favorite outfit for days that involve bus travel.

Pants like these are perfect, but unless you truly like buying everything ahead of time, you might want to consider waiting and purchasing a pair (or three) of these during your Colombia trip instead.

1 Pair Jeans — These probably won’t be the most-worn item of your travels, but when you need them, you’ll be glad to have them!

Jeans are a popular option for cooler cities like Medellin and Bogota and are also great to have in the coffee triangle or anywhere that you’d like to go horseback riding.

5-7 Tanks Tops + Short-Sleeved Shirts — Aim for comfort, and ideally bring shirts that can pair with at least 2 pairs of your shorts and/or 2 skirts.

1 Long Sleeved Shirt — For cool nights and cold buses.

1 Light Jacket — Once you leave the Caribbean coast, much of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations are surprisingly cool!

Be sure to come prepared.

1 Fleece Pullover — I am obsessed with my Northface pullover and have had it for years.

It has stood up to countless day hikes, endless bus rides, and travels across nearly 40 countries.

2 Bathing Suits — Once you leave the Caribbean coast, you won’t have much of a reason to swim–adjust the number of bathing suits on your packing list for Colombia depending on how much time to plan to spend on the beach.

1 Pair Sunglasses — Opt for inexpensive ones if you can: the odds of them getting lost or broken on your trip are high.

10+ Pairs of Underwear — It’s fairly easy to find laundry services in Colombia, but if you’re moving around every few days, you’ll need to plan ahead to make sure you have time to get it done. Bring at least one pair of underwear per day that you hope to avoid having laundry done!

2-3 Bras — Be sure to include at least one sports bra.

1 Pair Yoga Pants — For hiking, exercising, long days on buses, or occasionally actual yoga. I’ve worn these for years, including throughout Colombia.

Flip Flops — These don’t need to be expensive–it’s better if they’re not–but you’ll want something to bring to the beach (and into the shower if you stay in a hostel).

Comfortable Walking Shoes — These need to be casual, durable, cool, and comfortable, able to withstand city visits, and also light hiking.

I love my Keen Whisper Sandals and wore them most days in Colombia.

Hiking Boots (Optional) — If you’re hoping to take part in the Lost City Trek or hike the Cocora Valley, you’ll definitely want to have hiking boots with you!

Socks — How many you need depends on whether or not you will wear socks only while hiking or all the time.

However many you think you need, go ahead and add 50% more to compensate for dirty feet and lost socks!

1 Hat — Baseball cap, sun hat… bring whatever kind of hat you’re comfortable in, just be sure that it’s comfortable to wear both on the beach and while hiking!

Makeup — It’s easy to get out of the habit of wearing makeup while traipsing through Colombia–I know I barely wore mine–but it’s always nice to have on hand for days that you want to take photos or just get a bit dressed up.

I recommend bringing whatever you need to put together a basic, everyday look and no more.

Makeup can get heavy quickly, and you might be surprised at how little you use it!

6-8 Short-Sleeved Shirts — Aim for shirts that are comfortable to wear daily, that you like how they look in photos (they’ll more or less be your uniform in Colombia), and that aren’t too pricey.

Depending on how long you visit, there’s a good chance that they’ll be worn out by the end of your trip!

1 Long Sleeved Shirt — This can either be casual (for hiking trips) or a slightly more formal button-down (useful for visiting clubs in cities like Medellin) depending on your travel style.

1 Light Jacket — This will be especially useful in the coffee triangle and in cooler cities like Medellin and Bogota, and should definitely be counted among the travel essentials for men in Colombia.

1 Fleece Pullover — Jeremy has had this one for years and loves it.

2 Pairs of Pants — We recommend bringing one pair of jeans, and one pair of comfortable slacks for wearing in cities.

2-3 Pairs of Shorts — Make one of these a pair of fast-drying workout shorts.

1-2 Bathing Suits — One bathing suit is probably plenty if you’re traveling to several destinations in Colombia, but if you’re concentrating your trip along the Caribbean coast, you might want to have a second suit on hand.

Flip Flops — For the beach and communal showers if you stay in a hostel.

Comfortable Walking Shoes — You’ll want to make sure these are comfortable enough for daily wear both daily wear and light hiking.

There is a similar men’s version of the sandals that have held up so well for me, and I highly recommend them.

Hiking Boots (Optional) — If you’re hoping to take part in the Lost City Trek or hike the Cocora Valley, you’ll definitely want to have hiking boots with you! 

10+ Pairs of Underwear — At least one pair of underwear per the number of days you hope to avoid doing laundry!

Socks — The number of socks you need will vary depending on if you plan to wear them daily or just when hiking, but be sure to account for exceptionally dirty feet and lost socks when making your packing list for Colombia!

1 Pair Sunglasses — The cheaper the better, as these are likely to get lost or broken during your trip to Colombia.

1 Hat — A baseball cap is perfect, but opt for whatever is comfortable enough that you’ll actually wear it.

For the most part, you’ll want to go ahead and add the same toiletries you use at home to your Colombia packing list.

If you’re picky about brands, you’ll want to bring enough of your toiletries to last the length of your trip, and if you’re not, basics like shampoo, deodorant, etc, are fairly simple to pick up on the road.

You’ll be able to find most familiar drugstore brands in Colombian cities like Medellin, but there’s no guarantee of finding specific products.

One item we do highly recommend bringing? Solid shampoo.

We love the solid shampoos by LUSH, and they save so much space and weight in our bags.

Also, don’t forget to fill up on a supply of prescription items like contacts and medications before you go that will last the length of your trip to Colombia!

Subscribe to our newsletter to follow along with our travels and to receive tips and new content via email!

We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

22 thoughts on “What to Pack for Colombia: Ultimate Colombia Packing List”

I’ll take your advice and definitely take a rain poncho! You’ve listed some great items here, especially the portable medicines. I always need dramamine and never travel without. Hope to make it to Colombia one day.

Agreed–I sure wish I wasn’t afflicted with motion sickness all the time, but alas!

That’s a very thorough packing list! You guys carry quite a bit more gear than we did but it does look like you’re prepared for everything 🙂 Packing meds to go with you is always a really nice tip.

Haha, yes, no one will ever mistake us for light packers.

That’s an interesting list. You have covered every essential item for the varying weather condition. I’ll make sure I carry a compass to avoid getting lost 😉 Cheers!!

Only if you’re hiking! We never use it in cities, but love having it in the woods.

This is such a complete list! It is good to know that boots are necessary for the muddy terrains. Also, I have heard so much about the solid shampoo from Lush, but haven’t actually used it. Is it good? Does it leave your hair soft?

We like it! I haven’t noticed any quality difference in my hair between that and typical liquid shampoos, but I do still use a liquid conditioner. 🙂

What a great, comprehensive list! I always hate packing and am very happy to just follow someone else’s list! I’m a huge fan of Lush but haven’t used their solid shampoo yet. It seems like a better idea than liquids which can easily spill.

They can definitely spill–and they’re also heavy! Solid is a big plus–even more so for people who want to travel carry-on only.

Such a comprehensive packing list! I’ve never been to Colombia but now I know what to bring when I visit that country. I think the Power Bank is really necessary for the trip and having bathing suit and sunglasses are definitely necessary!

The Power Bank definitely comes in handy on those long bus rides!

I highly appreciate this packing list – I think I have a few items in there to add to my own. Although I am not going to Colombia soon, I will be headed for Singapore in the coming week. I could refer to this packing list especially the medicine ones. Being sick on travel is not fun but it is always important to have these medicines ready.

Singapore sounds like fun! Definitely a very different place than Colombia, but a lot of our medicines/travel gear in general does cross over regardless of destination.

You have some great tips for the camera gear, we are looking for camera options and Nikon 3400 sounds like a good option. In electronics, we definitely cannot go without Apple MacBook and Power Banks. Medicines and document copies are definitely important too. Thanks for this comprehensive packing list!

Good luck with your camera search! It’s definitely not an easy one. Our D3300 has been amazing to us.

Such a great detailed list! Thanks for this. Planning to visit Colombia next year. It’s so important to keep in mind there are microclimates where as you said you may need a sweater in one place, shorts in another, and hiking boots somewhere else!

Good luck with your planning!! Colombia definitely requires packing for lots of weather, but it’s an amazing destination!

Any tricks with the camera to not get robbed? I have the Nikon D3400 and I’m worried about carrying it around. Should I carry it in a regular bag so no one knows there’s a camera in there?

You definitely can if that makes you feel more comfortable! It’s ultimately a matter of personal preference and risk tolerance. You’ll see plenty of visitors carrying their cameras in the open, which we always did in Colombia when walking around and shooting photos. When riding in taxis or tuktuks, sitting at restaurants, etc. we keep it in a standard backpack (not a camera bag).

We don’t bring an obvious camera bag with us anywhere in the world, though, which helps with security a bit but is also just much more comfortable–all our supplies for the day, camera included, live in our Pacsafe backpack when we’re not using them.

This is a great list. One question though… does this list apply to all seasons? I’m going in May and it’s supposed to thunderstorm every day and never get above 65 degrees F. Would you still recommend t-shirts and shorts or should I pack jeans and sweatshirts?

That definitely depends on where you’re going, but this list is based on our Colombia itinerary outlined here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-weeks-in-colombia-itinerary/

All of the destinations outlined here are definitely well above 65 degrees, though you may want warmer clothes in Salento. At the beach, though, you’d be sweltering in anything but shorts!

At the end of the day, though, weather should definitely dictate your packing list. 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

What to Wear in Colombia: Vacation Packing List

Packing Lists , South America Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

For this edition of Locals Approved Packing Lists two Colombia residents have assisted in providing a reliable account of a locals view to help us determine what to wear in Colombia.

What to Wear in Colombia

Edited by Chantelle Mallin

Jasmine, originally from Tampa Florida, has been on the road since 2007. After stints in New Zealand and Australia and traveling across Southeast Asia and Latin America, she fell in love with Medellin, Colombia.

She now calls the city home where she lives with her puppy Luna. You can catch up with her on Twitter and Facebook or check out her travel blog  Jasmine Wanders .

Our other Colombia correspondent is Andres Rodriguez, the co-editor of international street fashion blog  Iconia Magazine . He’s lived in Colombia for 37 years, and is not only capturing images of the latest fashions in his home country but also around the world including Paris, Milan, and New York.

The photographs featured on this article give you a sneak peak at what Iconia Magazine has to offer so check it out for more international street style.

Thank you for your helpful insight guys!

Colombia Clothing Style

The clothing style in Colombia mainly depends on the city, in the tropical places such as Cartagena the style is chic, elegant and more relaxed, think lots of white and light fabrics. Medellin is more sexy, think Latin, the women wear light dresses, tight jeans and bright colours – don’t be afraid to show a little skin here!

How to choose the best fabrics for travel ? Read this post!

Medellin is hot during the day and cool at night, however it’s not a tropical destination, dress light, but not as if you’re going to the beach. Medellin is considered the fashion capital of Colombia, people dress considering trends.

Bogota is a colder city, think New York in the springtime, it is more formal and sophisticated: scarfs, coats, heavy jackets and dark colours. Cartagena is a tropical city with very hot weather, dress accordingly with loose t-shirts, shorts, flowing dresses, maxi skirts and sandals.

Always check the weather forecast  for each city you plan to visit during your trip to Colombia. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Read these tips on how to avoid a boring all-black wardrobe when you travel!

There are no rules in general for dressing in Colombia, however to avoid sticking out it is recommended men wear trousers and closed-toed shoes, especially at night.

For the girls opt for skinny jeans, a pretty shirt, sandals (not flip-flops), flats and heels if you fancy dressing up your outfit. If you decide to wear shorts, pair it with a conservative top.

Check out our round-up of comfortable walking sandals that don’t sacrifice style !

Jasmine suggests that here is more conservative and formal that her home state of Florida, it is not common to see men in shorts or people wearing flip flops, the local’s value presenting themselves well.

Wearing shorts, sandals and a t-shirt to go shopping, out at night, at a restaurant or clubbing will get you pegged as a tourist, if you plan to go to chic places dress up to avoid feeling under dressed.

Find out how to turn any one of your dresses into versatile dresses !

When planning what to wear in Colombia, the top advice from Andres is to dress for the diverse weather conditions across the country , if your go to Cartagena and Medellin and then travel to Bogota, be prepared to pack 3 different kind of clothing for each city’s climate.

Read this tips on how to pack for different climates !

Sunglasses | Travel Guide | Sunscreen | Scarf

Travel Essentials

• Cartagena – As Cartagena has a tropical climate be sure to pack your favourite pair of sunglasses, a hat and plenty of sun cream to protect you from the suns glare, light coloured flowing maxi dresses and skirts are perfect for women, men should purchase a ‘guayabera’ for a local clothing store, it’s kind of like a safari/camp shirt, popular in South America. Don’t forget to pack a printed swimsuit/bikini and cute cover-up to hit up Cartagena’s beaut sandy beaches.
• Medellin – For this fashionable city pack your favourite printed dresses and colourful tops team these with a pair of on trend jeans and you’ll fit right in, oh and don’t be afraid to show a little skin.
• Bogota – Think slightly conservative and sophisticated clothing (if you want to fit in, maybe you don’t though!), essentials include sunglasses for during the day, a pair of jeans or dark pants, a printed scarf and a light coat and jacket, dress up not down!

Colombia is the country with diverse weather so try to bring clothing to cover all weather conditions!

Colombia Shopping

If you’ve forgotten an item or just fancy updating your holiday wardrobe Colombia has got it covered, there are lots of clothing stores in the major cities including international brands such as Zara, Diesel, Mango and Forever 21 and designer brands such as Carolina Herrera and Louis Vuitton.

Other cool clothing brands include ELA , Ragged , Stradivarius, STOP Jeans  and Arturo Calle  for the men, hit up one of the local malls to find possibilities for every budget or browse the outdoor markets for unique crafts and budget clothing, ask at your hotel for the nearest market.

Colombia is a country with a buzzing fashion scene check out some of their local designers such as –

• Franca Lovely Chus  – A shoe brand noted for its production of quirky, clunky-cool leather shoes created in bright colours and extravagant shapes, the shoes are entirely manufactured in Colombia.
• Maria Luisa Ortiz  – The Red Label is a lower-cost alternative to the Maria Luisa Ortiz couture line, the brand has a contemporary feel.
• Leal Daccarett  – Colombia’s most cutting-edge young apparel brands, think hippy-chic, featuring traditional craftsmanship and an edgy design.

Colombia is located very close to the equator – typical seasons aren’t present, however the weather changes as you travel through the country due to the range of altitudes and geographic conditions such as humid forests, tropical plains and deserts.

The weather is consistent throughout the year with slight variations due to the dry and wet seasons. You can experience totally different climates within a couple hours of travel.

The general rule is that the temperature will decrease by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit by every 1000 feet increase in altitude, also the higher up you are the more of difference you will notice between day and night temps.

Read these tips on what to wear on a rainy day !

Dry/Verano (Summer) Season

Dry season usually runs from June – August and December – February, average highs are around 20 ºC and it is commonly sunny, pack light and relaxed clothing, a pair of sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen. The dry season is the most pleasant time to pay a visit to the country, many festivals and fiestas take place during this season, and it is the perfect time to go hiking.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Summer Maxi Dresses
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• The 10 Best Sandals for Travel this Summer

Wet/Invierno (Winter) Season

Wet season generally runs from March – May and September – November, the average temperature is again around 20 °C, fog, cloud and hailstorms can be common, pack light and comfortable clothing for during the day and a sweater and light jacket for chillier evenings. Oh and remember to pack waterproof shoes and an umbrella and rain jacket with hood.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
• How to Pack for Cold Weather
• How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
• The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

V   Neck  |  Blouse  |  T   Shirt  |  Sleeveless  |  Shirtdress  |  Dress  |  Jeans  |  Pants  |  Jacket  |  Poncho  |  Sweater  |  Shorts  |  Boots  |  Shoes  |  Scarf  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Bogota

Bogota is the capital city of Colombia, the weather in Bogota is quite consistent all year round. The typical temperature hovers around 14ᵒC rarely rises above around 20ᵒC and falls below 5ᵒC, the city has quite a cool climate compared to other Colombian cities.

The driest months are commonly January, July, August and December, whilst the wettest run between April to May and September to November.

Be prepared, in Bogota you can experience all four seasons in one day. The best advice would be to layer, taking off or adding clothing depending on the weather!

Pack your favourite pair of jeans or dark coloured trousers, simple coloured jersey t-shirts and blouses, a thin knit sweater, it gets cool at night, and a cute printed tea dress paired with tights to add a sense of femininity, pair with a cute cotton scarf and a chic waterproof jacket.

Take a look at these stylish and Insta-friendly water-resistant jackets !

Don’t let the cooler weather fool you; due to the country’s closeness to the equator you still need to pack your favourite sunnies and sun cream to protect you from the sun’s rays.

Shoe wise; pack a comfortable pair of waterproof boots or hiking shoes to combat the impulsive weather, also include a printed pair of sneakers and cut out closed toe sandals for when the weather is mild, don’t forget to pack an umbrella to face the wet season.

Looking for comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel? Read this post!

Don’t let the cooler weather put you off; check out all the beautiful cosmopolitan city has to offer, combat the weather and try a traditional Bogota drink – to warm up taste a hot chocolate and cheese portion or cool down with a glass of agua de panela (unrefined whole can sugar) with lime juice.

Street Style in Bogota

Photo: Diana Trujillo Neme with IconiaMagazine.com

Sleeveless  |  Blouse  |  Tank  |  Cami  |  Dress  1  |  Dress  2  |  Pants  |  Short  |  Waistcoat  |  Jacket  |  T   Shirt  |  Skirt  |  Shoes  |  Sandals  |   Hat  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Caribbean Coast

The weather on the Caribbean coast is hot and humid; the temperature ranges from 24 to 33 in places such as Cartagena, Baranquilla and Santa Marta. The wet season typically runs from September to October; however there is significantly less rain that in Bogota.

Benefit the glorious weather and pack accordingly. Include natural coloured tunics and short sleeved tee’s to pair with button down maxi skirts, a cute pair of cut off denim shorts and a pair of printed loose trousers. Include a pretty printed maxi and tea dress and embellished playsuit to complete your wardrobe.

Here’s a list of tunics that you can shop now and wear all season long !

Opt for a vintage style kimono jacket and crocheted shawl as cover up options and don’t forget your swimwear to take advantage of the beautiful coast! The coast can get pretty hot and humid in the day, so the best advice would be to dress light, oh and don’t forget your sunscreen!

Here are the twenty-three best one piece swimsuits  of the season!

Comfy shoes are a must as you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking and sightseeing, pack a cute pair of pastel coloured sandals for relaxing on the beach. Pack a pair or good walking/hiking boots if your itinerary includes trekking to the lost city, in the mountains or through the amazon, a strong insect repellent would be useful for the latter.

Check out our comfortable walking sandals that don’t sacrifice style !

The coast is the perfect place for ‘fun in the sun’ offering you the idyllic slice of summer any time of the year.  Colombia has a tasty selection of fruits – try the lemonade de coco a lemonade made with a Piña Colada coconut mix.

Blouse  |  Sleeveless  |  Tank  |  Top  |  Romper  |  Dress  |  Pant  |  Short  |  Jacket  |  Vest  |  Long   Sleeve  |  Shorts  |  Boots  |  Sandals  |  Hat  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Amazonas

It’s the rainforest, so it rains A LOT! The rain is generally all year round , however January to May is the most extreme, and the region is also insanely humid, with temperatures throughout the year in the high 20s.

Light, casual clothing that can be layered would be the best choice for the amazon, because of the heavy rainfall and humidity clothes are hard to dry (jeans would be a nightmare), bring enough clothes to last you all your trip and stick to polyester and nylon fabrics that dry quickly, be warned though, these fabrics can get humid in warm weather,

Stick to light-coloured clothing that reflect heat and sunlight and help avoid insects, think cottons and silks that are light and breathable and will absorb sweat and release body heat.

Read this tips to stop overpacking !

Be prepared for the extreme weather and pack accordingly, opt for a variation of short and long sleeved t’s and tunics, a selection of neutral trousers and printed shorts, a cute sweater, a printed kimono to be worn if planning a nice outing for a meal or drinks, oh and don’t forget you swimsuit and water shoes for bathing.

A lightweight waterproof jacket is a necessity for this region, perfect for keeping you dry on a cool evening, yet one that can be stuffed away on a warm clear day.

Find out why we love these lightweight jackets for travel !

A pair of comfortable waterproof walking shoes is essential for the amazon; bring a pair that dry easily.

Blouse  |  Longsleeve   |  V   Neck  |  Tank  |  Dress  |  Swing   Dress  |  Jeans  |  Pants  |  Jacket  |  Poncho  |  Cardigan  |  Skirt  |  Boots  |  Flats  |  Hat  |  Backpack

What to Wear in Colombia: Coffee Region

The coffee region of Colombia is known for being pleasant, with temperatures varying between 17 and 25 degrees. Areas such as Medellín are considered to have the ‘perfect’ temperature.

Again, there are two main seasons rainy and dry. If you plan on visiting areas around Medellín, check the altitude, for instance Santa Fe de Antioquia is warmer and Santa Elena is cooler.

Style in Medellin is quite casual, becoming more stylish in areas such as Poblado and Tessoro, good advice would be to layer, adding and removing clothing according to the heat.

Pack your favourite pair of skinny jeans, printed trouser, a light panelled sweater and a variety of neutral tee’s, blouses and tunics, skirts and dresses aren’t so common, apart from in the younger generation.

Learn how to pack lightly stylishly !

At night, women are more inclined to dress up. Pack an embellished cami top and cropped trousers, during the rainy season it can get chilly at night, pack a flowing cardigan or printed kimono, the ladies of Medellín are well presented with groomed hair, nails and clothing.

You rarely see shorts, sandals and flip flops whilst out and about, opt for cut out boots, cute brogues and printed sneakers and shoe choices; Medellin is a good place to buy shoes as many are manufactured locally.

Read this 10 step guide on how to pack shoes for any trip !

Medellin feels like spring all year round , with pleasant weather and beautiful blooms, it is the perfect place for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking and walking, be sure to pack some high factor sunscreen, the area had a high level of UV penetration.

Street Style in Medellin

Photos: Andrés Felipe Ramírez with IconiaMagazine.com

Colombia Travel Tips

The best tip when planning what to wear in Colombia would be to pack different types of clothing to cater for the diverse climate conditions.

Check out the weather and temperature for the places you are visiting before travel, and pack accordingly, remember – don’t wear sandals and shorts in Bogota, even if you are a very casual traveller, not only will you feel cold, you will feel under-dressed for most occasions.

When visiting you may also want to consider the country’s holiday period, the high periods run from December to mid-January, Semana Santa (Holy Week: March or April) and from mid-June to mid-July, also take into account the three day weekends and regional celebrations such as Baranquilla de Carnaval .

These are the best periods to interact with traveling Colombians in chilled, holiday mode, however transport can become more crowded, hotels fill up quicker and the price of a holiday may rise.

Enjoy Your Colombia Vacation!

What are your tips on what to wear in Colombia? Share in the comments!

For more South America packing list, please read:

• 6 Packing Tips for Traveling to South America
• Packing List for Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador
• What to Pack for Trips to Brazil: Packing List and Fashion Tips

Suggested Travel Resources:

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you liked this post on what to wear in Colombia. Please share this post with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

18 comments.

Thanks this is all really helpful!

I am trying to understand how little girl clothing sizes in Columbia compare to sizes in the US. Do you have any insight on that? We’re hosting a little girl from Columbia and need to provide her some clothing!

Hi Brit, I apologize but we don’t know the answer to this. You might find some information by looking in Google for “Colombia vs USA kids clothing sizes. 🙂

Thanks for this informative post! I’m going to Cartagena, Cali, and La Macarena next month. Nice to know I can dress light and casual in these areas!

Hey y’all! It’s Colombia, not Columbia! It says Columbia Travel Tips at the bottom of the article. Just a pet peeve from many Colombians. Love the article though regardless!

Thanks for the heads up Sam! Will get to fixing it now! Thanks for reading!

Great site, really good writing:-)! I really enjoy your blog. I’m waiting for more. Best regards!

Thanks for reading!

Carnaval de Barranquilla not Barranquilla de Carnaval lol I have to disagree with the first comment though, people do not wear shorts in Bogota. On the other hand I do a lot more short wearing from locals on the coast.

Hi Paulette, thanks for helping to clear that up. Great feedback!

Hi. I have to agree with the shorts because I wear shorts in Bogotá. Yet, you do need to dress them up with the right top and shoes. Great article, one suggestion is make sure you verify city names and special events as it can flag your article as inaccurate; other than that-love it.

Awesome! Thanks Jenny 🙂

” it is not common to see men in shorts” Not true at all! People wear shorts in Bogota allll the time. I see it often! It is quite common. I mean, if you go to Santa Marta, you aren’t going to want to wear anything but shorts…and flip flops. Poor advice.

Thanks for your feedback Ctravel, this information was based on interviews with locals living in Colombia. It’s always good to know there are more options for men.

No true! Men or women do not wear shorts in Bogota, it can get cold and restaurants do not allow men in sandals or shorts, people dress up for dinner. Shorts is for the coastal areas Barranquilla, Cartagena and other warmer aras. I should know just got back from Bogota, women wear Jeans, leggings and boots.

What a small world I live in Tampa too! Flying into Bogota in a few weeks. This information came in very handy! Thank you so much for sharing!

Thanks so much for this detailed post! Really enjoyed it! A friend of mine and I are leaving for Medellin this Friday – we are from Florida as well (Fort Lauderdale)! We will be there for about 5 days and are really excited to see the city.

I’m glad I came across your blog and look forward to reading more! If you see this before we leave and have any tips for us, that’d be awesome! You can email me. 😀

Thanks Deborah! Hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• TRAVEL TIPS
• HIKING & CAMPING

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

Table of Contents

• ~45 L Backpack with Rain Cover
• 25 L Daypack with Rain Cover

Cross-Body Bag

Lightweight tote bag.

Lightweight Wallet

• Credit Card
• Travel Insurance
• Proof of Onward Travel

Electronics

eSIM or Local SIM Card

• Adaptor, if needed
• Portable Charger
• Your Usual Toiletries
• Hanging Toiletry Bag (optional)
• Mosquito Repellent

Lip Balm with SPF

• Bar Shampoo
• Tissues or Toilet Paper
• Hand Sanitizer
• Earplugs and Eye Mask
• Electrolyte Tablets
• Nail Clippers
• Menstrual Cup

Miscellaneous

• Microfiber Towel
• Tupperware Container
• Laundry Bar Soap (optional)

Organizational Items

• Packing Cubes
• Compression Bag (optional)
• Ziploc Bags
• Comfortable Sandals
• Sneakers (optional)
• Trail Runners
• Athletic Top (1)
• Quick-Dry T-Shirt (1)
• Normal T-Shirt (1)
• Nice but Comfortable Top (1)
• Athletic Shorts (1)
• Lightweight Dresses (1-2)
• Midi Skirt (1)
• Maxi Dress (1)
• Linen Pants (1)
• Hiking Pants (1)

Additional Layers

• Chambray Shirt (1)
• Lightweight Fleece Sweater (1)
• Flannel Shirt (1)
• Thermal Leggings (1)
• Puffy Jacket (1)
• Rain jacket (1)

Undergarments

• Underwear (7)
• Midweight Hiking Socks (1)
• Light Hiking Socks   (1)
• Normal Socks (2)
• Sports Bra (1)

Accessories

• Light Scarf (1)

Swimsuits (1-2)

• Headbands or Buffs (2)

Optional Items

• Book, Journal , or Kindle
• Cooking Oil, Spices, etc.
• Hiking & Camping Equipment

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

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.

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). 

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.

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

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

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

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.

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!

• Women’s T-Shirt
• Men’s T-Shirt
• 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.
• Women’s Hiking Pants
• Men’s Hiking Pants
• Chambray Shirt (1). Useful for chilly evenings or as a mosquito-proof layer in Colombia’s tropics.
• Women’s Flannel Shirt
• Men’s Flannel Shirt
• Women’s Puffy Jacket
• Men’s Puffy Jacket
• Women’s Rain Jacket
• Men’s Rain Jacket
• Women’s Socks
• Men’s Socks

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.  

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 .

This site contains affiliate links; if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a commission. Thanks for supporting me in creating free content for you to enjoy!

Save this post for later and share on Pinterest !

TRAVEL RESOURCES

Head to my Travel Resources Page for more recommendations.

Packing list . See my recommendations for packing a carry-on for long-term or multi-season travel.

Booking.com . This is my go-to platform for booking accommodation since it consistently gives me competitive prices and additional discounts based on usage.

SafetyWing . The most affordable travel insurance I’ve found that also offers excellent coverage.

Viator and Get Your Guide . Offer extensive tour options for both day trips and multi-day excursions.

BusBud . A great platform to search for bus routes in more than 80 countries and buy tickets online.

LifeStraw . This easy-to-use water filter guarantees that you always have access to clean drinking water.

Travel Credit Card . Earn substantial points for travel-related expenses and a very generous bonus when opening an account.

Related Posts

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hi, I’m Kristina! I’m a solo female traveler sharing my personal experiences around the world. Authentic travel is important to me; in my destination guides I emphasize not just the most spectacular sights but also the local stories and history.

Other things I’m passionate about are discovering hidden gems, budget-friendly travel, and hiking and backpacking. My goal is to show you how to seek adventurous experiences for yourself!

Travel Colombia Packing list: What to pack for your trip to Colombia

Taylor made trip to Colombia

Would you like to travel to Colombia with a travel agency? Compare the offers of our local partners

With travel fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about what to pack for your trip to Colombia ! You’ll certainly want to be prepared for the diversity of Colombian climates.

To help you out, we’ve designed this post as a checklist that you can adapt according to your itinerary and the activities you want to do in Colombia.

It’s these last two aspects in particular that you need to take into account when choosing what to pack for Colombia .

Related posts

• Preparing your trip
• Formalities

We were fed up with paying fees abroad

So for several years now, we’ve been using a free bank debit card specially designed for travelers, and we don’t pay any more fees abroad – no more!

Disclaimer : we apologize in advance for any grammatical or syntactic errors, as our native language is not English (we're a Colombian-French couple), so we hope you'll forgive us and still enjoy the information we share with you! Please note that all the information on our blog is based on our own experience, and is checked and updated regularly.

Bag or suitcase for Colombia?

Colombia packing list.

First things first! Should you take a backpack or a suitcase to Colombia?

There are two schools of thought: the backpackers and the suitcase-on-wheels. Contrary to what you might think, both are possible in Colombia.

Our luggage

Even though we’re lucky enough to have family in Colombia and to be able to leave our belongings behind (we have to bring a huge suitcase for all the gifts we bring with us), we try to leave with a maximum of 10 days’ luggage, which we wash as we go along.

Once we arrive, we travel with two small backpacks, a carry-on suitcase and a 40L backpack.

Our choice:

• Small Lowerpro backpack (for photo equipment)
• Decalthlon 20L small backpack
• Eastpack cabin suitcase
• Decathlon 40L cabin backpack

What’s more, because we can leave some things behind, we use a large hold suitcase . Frankly, we’re in love with Eastpack suitcases , they’re super-strong.

Luggage accessories

Some luggage accessories come in very handy:

• Luggage scales : indispensable for us! To avoid airport charges.
• Backpack racks : Decathlon’s are made for backpacks.
• Suitcase organizer : to compress your belongings
• Rain cover : indispensable from our point of view to keep bags dry (choose the right size for your backpack).

Clothing for Colombia

Packing for colombia.

If you’re planning to visit different regions of Colombia, there’s a good chance you’ll discover the amplitude of the country’s climatic changes . It’s best to be prepared to avoid surprises! Here’s what we suggest you pack for a trip to Colombia.

Above 2000m

• Sweaters/Fleece
• Warm clothing

Above 2000m, as in Bogotá for example, the climate is capricious: it’s downright cold at night and in the morning, it often rains, but if the sun comes out, it beats down hard!

Between 1000m and 2000m

• Light pants
• Shorts or skirt
• Light sweater

Between 1,000m and 2,000m is the temperate climate typical of Medellin , where the days are hot but pleasant, and in the evening there can be a slight breeze, but it’s not too cold. We dress between summer and spring. And always plan for rain.

Below 1000m

• Light summer clothing
• Summer shoes

Whatever happens below 1000m, the climate is very hot, so there’s no question about it. And even the rain doesn’t matter, as it’s so hot, just like in Cartagena .

If you’re planning a trip to the Amazon , the Pacific coast or a jungle trek, it’s advisable to wear long, loose-fitting, light clothing to protect yourself from mosquitoes.

Bring appropriate footwear for jungle walking (to avoid falls and protect you from animals).

There are several desert zones in Colombia (Tatacoa Desert , Guajira Desert , Chicamocha Canyon …)

Depending on conditions

The sun is beating down everywhere

The sun beats down hard in Colombia, whether you’re on the coast or at altitude, so bring your sunglasses and something to cover your head. It can get (very) cold on the big buses.

On buses, with the air-conditioning cranked up to the max, it can get really cold! Even on the Caribbean coast or in the hottest regions. So always pack pants, socks, a sweater and a scarf to keep you comfortable during the journey!

Everyday walking

Comfortable shoes for relaxed city walking Mountain walking

• mountain bootsa
• And a change of clothes!

In the mountains, it’s often damp, rainy and cold.

Walking in hot regions

Lightweight clothing and appropriate footwear with non-slip soles for jungle walks

IN SHORT: BRING A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING!

As you can see, in Colombia, you’ll probably have to pack a bit of everything: for hot weather, for cold weather, for rain, for sun, for walking, for the beach – that’s the magic of Colombia!

Our must-have clothes

Aside from your everyday clothes, those you absolutely must bring because you love them, etc., there are a few things you just can’t do without. These are the so-called “technical” garments found at Décathlon , which are perfect for the different conditions found in Colombia.

The number 1 objective: light, compact clothing, the idea being to take up as little space as possible in the suitcase!

Our cold-weather essentials

As you probably know, it’s the layers that protect you from the cold. It’s easy to avoid looking like a bibemdum:

• Merino wool tee-shirt (soft, light, warm and highly breathable)
• Micro-fiber fleece (light, warm and thin)
• Down jacket (ultra-light and compact)
• (Truly) waterproof jacket (lightweight and breathable)

Our must-have rainwear

For rain, we use the lightest, most breathable waterproof jacket possible. You can wear it in cold or hot weather, as needed. Even if it’s hot, rain isn’t necessarily a worry.

Our must-have items for trekking in hot regions

When trekking in hot regions (jungle), it is sometimes necessary to wear pants and a long-sleeved top to protect yourself from mosquitoes and insects. The idea is to take lightweight, quick-drying clothing. Here again, a woollen T-shirt is, against all odds, your best friend! It breathes, dries very quickly and is no warmer than a cotton T-shirt. 2-in-1 pants/shorts are also super practical for adapting to any situation.

Our walking essentials

Of course, we bring the classic city shoes we wear every day, but between hiking in the mountains where it’s cold and wet, and in the jungle where it’s hot, we always bring two pairs of hiking boots: a sturdy, waterproof pair for the mountains, and a light, ultra-breathable pair for regions where it’s hot. For us, they’re a must-have in your suitcase for Colombia.

Health and hygiene products

Luggage list colombia.

First-aid kit

If you are undergoing special treatment, bring your medication with you. Don’t forget to bring the corresponding prescription in case of a check-up.

For our part, apart from our special treatments, we always bring :

• Smecta : for minor digestive upsets
• Serum Physiologique : to clean wounds, eyes, nose, etc.
• Paracetamol : for aches and fevers
• Antiseptic solution : single-dose for disinfecting wounds
• Mercalm : for seasickness
• Arnica : for blows
• Osmosoft or Biafine : for sunburn

Insect repellent

Very important ! Mosquitoes are present everywhere in Colombia below 1500m altitude. We recommend using Icaridine-based mosquito repellents (20%), which are much less harmful than DEET and almost as effective.

Here’s the 3 best mosquito repellents (2019):

• Autan Multi-Insectes : based on Icaridine, this is our favorite mosquito repellent and number 1 in tests! We’ve tested lots of them, and this one works for us. What’s more, it smells pretty good and not too strong.
• Phytosun arôms Spray Répulsif : based on Eucalyptus essential oils, this is number 2 in the test.
• Mosi Guard Natural : citriodiol-based, number 3

Warning : mosquito repellents contain ingredients that may cause allergic reactions. We cannot be held responsible for any side-effects following application of one of these mosquito repellents.

WHAT TO CHOOSE

To achieve the promised protection times, don’t hesitate to apply the product generously (up to 8 sprays per forearm) and reapply if necessary.

Samuel is particularly sensitive to the sun , so a good sun cream is vital for him! Not all sun creams are created equal: they’re not all effective , they’re not all pleasant , and they’re sometimes toxic for you and for the marine ecosystem.

After many tests, Samuel has found his favorite sun creams that combine tested and approved effectiveness, respect for the environment and absence of toxicity

• Anthelios 50 spray invisible (for the body) and Anthelios 50 fluide Iinvisible (for the face) by La Roche-Posay: They are effective, pleasant and allergen-free, without endocrine disruptors, without disrupting the marine environment. Rated “A – No identified risk” by “Que choisir” magazine.
• Avene Intense Protect (Face and body): A super-cream that ticks all the boxes, too: efficacy, respect for the marine environment and absence of toxicity.

For your toiletries, we don’t have any advice to give you, but you should know that you can also find soaps, shower gels and shampoos in the local supermarkets if you need them.

On the other hand, we always take biodegradable soap with us if we need to wash in a river or in the wilderness . We advise you to use Savon Camp soap , a biodegradable soap that can be used for everything (skin, hair, dishes, etc.) and has been tested and approved .

Since the pandemic, Covid vaccinations are required to enter Colombia: remember to bring your certificate.

Vaccination against fever is recommended: remember to bring your international vaccination booklet (little yellow booklet)

Important documents

What to pack for colombia.

Now we come to the important documents you shouldn’t forget to pack for your trip to Colombia! Identity papers, insurance certificates, vaccination certificates

Identity papers

Passport valid for more than 6 months for the whole family remember to check a few months before you leave that your passport is valid for 6 months after the date of your trip. Don’t laugh, we know plenty of people who panicked and had to get their passport done at the last minute… save yourself the stress!

Passport scan (or photocopy) very important! If your passport is lost or stolen, this is what will enable you to get it done again quickly. We tell you all about it in our post on Safety in Colombia.

National driving license (international optional) if you plan to rent a car in Colombia

Insurance certificate if you have taken out travel insurance, which we recommend.

Vaccination certificates don’t forget your Covid vaccination certificate proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are traveling to certain high-risk areas of the country.

Prescriptions if you have specific treatments that do not cross borders easily.

Print your plane tickets it may be silly, but you feel better with your plane tickets in your pocket… even if today’s tickets are electronic and your passport is all you need to check in at the counter.

Address and telephone number of your arrival hotel you’ll be asked for this on the entry form you’ll be asked to fill in on the plane a few hours before landing. That’s why it’s a good idea to have it handy.

Cash remember to have some cash on hand as soon as you arrive in Colombia, so you can take a cab and make your first purchases. Ideally, you should have the N26 card , which allows you to withdraw cash from an ATM at low cost – it’s much cheaper than changing money at a bureau de change!

Bank cards as you know, our banks charge fees on payments abroad, so the best advice we can give you is to create an N26 account and use this card when traveling. It’s free and allows you to pay abroad without any charges .

We recommend that you read our comparison of the best banks for travelers , which will give you an idea.

Travel accessories

Preamble: can I bring expensive equipment to Colombia?

Let’s be clear: anything can happen when traveling, and every traveler will have his or her own experience, good or bad.

Here’s our experience : we’re going to Colombia with a lot of equipment (smartphones, laptop, cameras, lenses, drone, etc.). We’re careful, we take the necessary precautions and we’ve never had any problems. That’s all there is to it!

Phone and computer

Phone Bring your cell phone with you, and make sure it’s unlocked for all operators. This will enable you to buy a handy local SIM on the spot, as we recommend in our post Phone and Internet in Colombia . It’s a good idea to have a smartphone to find your way around town with Google maps, etc. We both have the iPhone SE 2020 , which we find perfect.

Laptop / iPad / Tablets this is an option if you really can’t live without them. You might want it for watching movies or perhaps, like us, simply for work.

The best tablets 2021 :

• Galaxy Tab S4

Best laptops 2021 :

• 13″ MacBook Air
• 13″ Macbook Pro
• HP Envy x3600 15″ laptop
• Dell Inspiron 5502 15″

Travel adapter : electrical outlets in Colombia (type A) are not the same as in France (type C), so you’ll need to bring a travel adapter to recharge or plug in your electrical appliances. We talk more about this in our post Colombia: the practical guide .

Here are your options:

• Skross universal : Universal adapter EU plug (type C,E,F) to US (type B), G (UK), I (AUS, CHI) earthed plugs
• Kwmobile (this is what we use): EU (type C) ungrounded plug to US (type A) ungrounded plug adapter
• Skross : EU plug adapter (type C,E,F) ungrounded to US plug (type A) grounded

Headphones Indispensable for music lovers or watching movies on the computer, they’re also much nicer on the plane than the earphones we’re given or have to pay for. Samuel loves Sennheiser headphones and he’s really into them. But we’ve recently switched to wireless headphones.

• Sennheiser CX300 II precision
• Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2

Books a trip to Colombia can be the perfect opportunity to read a book by a Colombian author, to immerse yourself even more deeply in the country! You can choose one from our list of 10 must-read Colombian books . Just be careful not to pack too many books, as they’ll quickly weigh down your suitcase.

For book devourers, the solution is the e-reader: you can fit lots of books in it, it’s super-light and super-practical when traveling.

Our choice :

• Kobo Aura h2o , which lets you load books in ePub format.
• Kindle Paper White , also highly ranked, only accepts the Amazon format.

Small backpack Useful and practical for carrying your day’s belongings.

• Lowerpro Flipside BP 450 AW (for photo equipment)
• Decalthlon 20L backpack

Headlamp Very useful in Colombia in regions where electricity is not always 100% reliable.

• Our choice: Decathlon 200 lumen lamp

Dirty laundry bag Important for separating the dirty laundry you’ll accumulate during your trip.

Photo equipment

Photography is our passion, so we’re well equipped, but we’ve chosen cameras that are best suited to the trip . We wanted compact, lightweight, high-performance equipment.

Fuji X100V Fixed-focal-lens camera (you can’t change the lens, and there’s no zoom). A superb camera of impeccable quality, it is tropicalized (splash- and dust-resistant). Its fixed focal length (35mm) is perfect for all conditions, so you can put it in your pocket and forget about the equipment, just think about photographing.

Olympus OMD EM1 and Olympus OMD EM5 Two interchangeable-lens cameras. These two cameras are in micro 4/3 format, tropicalized (splash- and dust-resistant) and with interchangeable lenses. They have the advantage of combining quality and compactness. These two cameras use the following fully tropicalized lenses: Olympus’s fabulous PRO range, with the Zuiko 12-40mm 2. 8, the all-purpose lens we use the most, and the Zuiko 7-14mm 2. 8, the ultra-wide-angle lens that lets you dare to take unexpected shots. Then there’s the more affordable Panasonic 100-300 mega zoom for wildlife.

Photo accessories Don’t forget all the essential accessories such as extra batteries, battery chargers, memory cards, a small travel stand, etc.

Photo bag After (many) trials and tribulations, we finally found the almost perfect bag for us: Lowerpro Flipside BP 450 AW . It’s top-notch, durable and compact, but you can fit a lot of personal and photo gear in it for the day. It has proved its worth all over Colombia.

Binoculars If you’re a nature lover or birdwatcher, Colombia is a birdwatching paradise ! (Some hotels and guides make them available, so be sure not to overload yourself)

You may also be interested in

To do list: things to remember before your trip to Colombia

Visas and requirements for a trip to colombia, best time to visit colombia: when you should travel, internet and calling in colombia during a trip, 10 useful things (or not) to know before travelling to colombia, the weather in colombia, the best time to travel, angélica & samuel.

We are Angélica and Samuel, a French-Colombian couple, professional photographers and web editors specializing in travel to Colombia. We created this blog to change the image of the country, help you prepare your trip and inspire you to discover Colombia in a different way!

Our site contains forms and links that allow you to use services or get in touch with service providers we've tested and recommend. By using our links and forms, you're assured of a quality service AND you're supporting our blog. It makes no difference to you, but it does to us! Thank you for your support!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

14 thoughts on “travel colombia packing list: what to pack for your trip to colombia”.

Thank you for your great blog which contains all the information I need. I’m planning to go on my own in October if that’s possible, I have a few questions about bus travel. Is it possible to keep my backpack with me or do I have to put it in the hold? Is it safe to travel by bus at night? This is my first solo trip, so I’m a bit stressed. Thanks in advance, Sarah

Hello Sarah, Thank you for your message, which makes us very happy! We hope that tourism will resume this autumn. You can keep your backpack if you want but it depends on the size I think. if it’s too big it will be cumbersome. If it’s any consolation, we’ve never had a problem leaving our luggage in the hold. And yes, night travel is quiet, as many people travel at night, especially on long journeys. If you have any questions about buses in Colombia, we suggest you read our dedicated article: https://mytriptocolombia.com/voyager-bus-colombie-conseil/

Hello Thank you for your blog and advice…we are leaving next week for three weeks We have filled in the form for the two days in Palamono with the Indian comminaute but still no answer ???? Does it still work? We wanted to go around december 9th with four people Jean and Françoise

Hello, normally Adrian replies within 48 hours, depending on whether he’s in the mountains or in town. You just have to be patient or send us an e-mail with the name you entered in the form so that we can check whether the message has gone through or not. I can’t see anything in Jean’s or Françoise’s name in the latest forms sent.

Hello Angelica and Samuel,

What a job well done! bravo for your blog, the useful info, the tips, the advice, the photos, everything! a question about the bus trip: although we don’t do “backpack” trips, we’re thinking of doing a few bus trips, with 1 suitcase each. Is this recommended or do you think it poses a safety problem? thank you in advance, and looking forward to hearing from you,

Hi Nadine, thanks for your message 🙂 No problem to travel with a suitcase, we did it last year by bus 🙂 You’ll find lots of info on buses in our dedicated article: Travelling by bus in Colombia

Hello ! Is it possible to buy mosquito repellent locally? Isn’t it more suitable? Thank you and have a nice day! Alix

Hello, of course it’s possible to take it on the spot! More suitable, on the other hand, no idea 😉 We bought some on the spot that worked, others much less so…

Hello, Departure in a week, thank you very much for all your little tips and tricks, it has helped us prepare for our trip! We can’t wait to get there 😉 Tiphaine

Thank you so much for these lovely compliments! We really appreciate it 🙂 Enjoy your trip!

Hello Thank you for your site and all your valuable advice We are leaving tomorrow for 15 days and we can’t wait to discover your wonderful country Angelique

Thank you very much! Enjoy your trip, you’re in for a treat! 🙂

Good evening Samuel and Angélica, A little question that came to mind 15 days before our departure: we thought we’d each take our own meat bag to sleep in, but we read several times that nights in hammocks or tents are possible depending on the place. Is a comforter preferable? We’re thinking of doing a 4-day trek in the Ciudad Perdida. Thank you for your feedback and congratulations on your great blog, which is helping us to finalize our travel plans Aurélien and Marianne

Hello Marianne and Aurélien! Thank you for your compliments on the blog, it gives us a boost to keep going! 🙂 To answer your question, if you’re not planning to go camping in the Andes, then you don’t need a comforter. On the Caribbean coast, it’s far too hot even at night to need a comforter to sleep outside. Your potato sack will suffice, and if that’s not enough, a little sweater will do the trick!

Legal information

Like our blog? You can support us! Click here to find out more My trip to Colombia © Desde 2018 con muchos 💛💙❤️ All rights reserved - Website created by nymyproduction.com

Please verify you are a human

Access to this page has been denied because we believe you are using automation tools to browse the website.

This may happen as a result of the following:

• Javascript is disabled or blocked by an extension (ad blockers for example)
• Your browser does not support cookies

Please make sure that Javascript and cookies are enabled on your browser and that you are not blocking them from loading.

Reference ID: ed9f4d1d-2a68-11ef-a13f-736237e68d60

Powered by PerimeterX , Inc.

How Do You Pack for an Entire Year of Travel?

By Harrison Pierce

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Picture this: You’re wandering around a 2,000 year-old European city in the morning, sipping coffee and eating pastries. By night, you’re responding to emails and getting your work done. A few months later, you’re spending your day at a cafe in Buenos Aires and spending your nights connecting with other remote workers who happen to be in the same city as you. Lucky for me, this has been my life for the past two and a half years. I’m a full-time digital nomad who has learned a lifetime's worth of travel lessons in the past few years—especially when it comes to packing.

There are many different types of travelers; when planning where to go for extended stays, I avoid cold weather at all costs. This does make things slightly more manageable when it comes to packing . I typically have one sweatshirt, just in case it gets chilly, but that’s it—no bulky coats or winter accessories to worry about. I prefer to spend summers in the Northern Hemisphere, like Mexico and Europe, and when it starts turning cold, I return to the Southern Hemisphere to enjoy the summer there. In 2023, I spent January through the middle of June in Argentina, Uruguay, and Mexico. Then, I went to Europe and country-hopped all summer until I went to the US at the end of September to visit family. After a month at home, I spent the rest of the year in Colombia.

Looking ahead to 2024, I’m back in Argentina through the middle of March, and then I head to Peru through the end of May. From there, I expect to be in Europe through at least September before finding warmth in South America or Southeast Asia. Even though I only go home once a year, I take just one large checked bag , a personal item , and my cat, Isabelle, who counts as my carry-on. It might seem impossible to fit your entire life and your pet into such a small space, but it’s more doable than you think.

If the thought of never-ending travel feels a little intimidating, I'd suggest setting some parameters around it—six months or a year, as a test run. This makes it easier to pack, budget, and wrap your head around full-time travel. Whether you're in planning mode or are just curious as to how to squeeze your life into a suitcase, here are my top tips for how to pack for an entire year of travel.

My packing list for full-time travel:

Reliable luggage, clothing basics, comfortable shoes, toiletry essentials, tech accessories, more travel must-haves.

If you’re going to travel for any prolonged period with multiple destinations on the itinerary, sturdy, reliable luggage is a must. I’ve previously been loyal to Away , but I branched out slightly after my Away weekender bag broke while I was in transit. However, I still swear by the brand's The Large Suitcase. I prefer hard-sided luggage to help protect my items, and I like that the suitcase is split evenly down the middle. I pack all my clothes on the right side of my suitcase and all my work and travel accessories on the left side. I like to know exactly where everything is, so I use a lot of different organizers — packing cubes , shoe cubes, toiletry bags , a tech bag , and a jewelry box. Organization is the most important part of packing, so any accessories that help sort your essentials are worth the investment. If you want to ensure your bag never gets lost, I also highly recommend AirTags or another mobile tag .

Shown in salt

My clothes take up half of my suitcase. When packing, I start from the base of an outfit and end with the accessories. Because I’m only packing for warm weather, I can fit more options than I would if I were trying to pack for multiple seasons. I find it helpful to pack neutral clothes that can all work together to maximize the number of outfits you can create. This helps prevent the feeling that you’re wearing the same outfit over and over again. Here are the clothes I pack:

• 10 pairs of socks and underwear
• Two pairs of lightweight shorts
• A pair of athletic shorts
• A pair of sweatpants
• A pair of linen pants
• A formal pant
• A pair of jeans
• Seven T-shirts
• Six button-up short-sleeve shirts
• Two button-up long-sleeve shirts
• A black jumpsuit for more formal events
• A sweatshirt for chilly days or airplanes
• A scarf just in case it’s extra cold in a destination
• Two bathing suits

In total, I have six pairs of shoes while traveling. This might sound like a lot, but there’s a reason for each pair. I bring a pair of house slippers, sandals for the pool or the beach, Converse for day-to-day, Allbirds sneakers for hikes or long travel days, a dressy pair of loafers, and platform sandals that can be casual or formal. This way, I have all my bases covered.

I have two toiletry bags for all my skincare , haircare essentials, and other products. If you have a checked bag, I recommend packing full-size bottles of your favorite products, as they might be more difficult to find in other countries.

My travel and work accessories take up a large portion of my luggage, but each item holds enough value to secure a coveted spot in my suitcase. Here are the tech essentials worth bringing along, especially if you'll be working remotely.

What you want on hand for an entire year is different than what's deemed a packing essential for a weeklong vacation. Ultimately, all of my accessories take up more space than my clothes, but when traveling long-term, I appreciate having each one of these items with me. These accessories might not be crucial, but they've significantly enhanced my trips and make me feel more comfortable on the road. Most of these items were purchased out of necessity once I was already traveling, and they've been worth the weight they add to my luggage.

With that said, I’ve accepted the fact that my luggage will always be overweight. If you want to avoid paying for heavy luggage, go for a smaller suitcase and leave some of the “nice to have” items out. Everything in my suitcase is intentional and has a purpose, so I don’t mind incurring a fee. When traveling for a year, you will have to make a lot of sacrifices, but you learn how to do more with less.

• Clear Search
• Recently Viewed

• BEDDING SETS
• NURSERY ESSENTIALS
• Crib Sheets
• Crib Skirts
• Crib Rail Covers
• Baby Blankets
• Changing Pad Covers
• Rag Tie Bunting Banner
• Window Accents
• Multi-Use Nursing & Car Seat Covers
• Nursing Pillow Covers
• Nursing Covers
• Kids Sheet Sets
• Kids' Blankets
• Kids' Duvet Covers
• Bundle Boxes
• Lovey Blankets
• Bibs and Burp Cloths
• PERSONALIZED
• For Mom & Grandma
• For Dad & Grandpa
• Gift Registry
• FOR EASTER BASKETS
• LAST CHANCE
• NEW ARRIVALS
• ABOUT SUITEBABY
• PRODUCT INFORMATION
• Care Instructions
• STAY UP-TO-DATE
• Register / Login
• Afghanistan (USD $)
• Åland Islands (USD $)
• Albania (USD $)
• Algeria (USD $)
• Andorra (USD $)
• Angola (USD $)
• Anguilla (USD $)
• Antigua & Barbuda (USD $)
• Argentina (USD $)
• Armenia (USD $)
• Aruba (USD $)
• Ascension Island (USD $)
• Australia (USD $)
• Austria (USD $)
• Azerbaijan (USD $)
• Bahamas (USD $)
• Bahrain (USD $)
• Bangladesh (USD $)
• Barbados (USD $)
• Belarus (USD $)
• Belgium (USD $)
• Belize (USD $)
• Benin (USD $)
• Bermuda (USD $)
• Bhutan (USD $)
• Bolivia (USD $)
• Bosnia & Herzegovina (USD $)
• Botswana (USD $)
• Brazil (USD $)
• British Indian Ocean Territory (USD $)
• British Virgin Islands (USD $)
• Brunei (USD $)
• Bulgaria (USD $)
• Burkina Faso (USD $)
• Burundi (USD $)
• Cambodia (USD $)
• Cameroon (USD $)
• Canada (USD $)
• Cape Verde (USD $)
• Caribbean Netherlands (USD $)
• Cayman Islands (USD $)
• Central African Republic (USD $)
• Chad (USD $)
• Chile (USD $)
• China (USD $)
• Christmas Island (USD $)
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands (USD $)
• Colombia (USD $)
• Comoros (USD $)
• Congo - Brazzaville (USD $)
• Congo - Kinshasa (USD $)
• Cook Islands (USD $)
• Costa Rica (USD $)
• Côte d’Ivoire (USD $)
• Croatia (USD $)
• Curaçao (USD $)
• Cyprus (USD $)
• Czechia (USD $)
• Denmark (USD $)
• Djibouti (USD $)
• Dominica (USD $)
• Dominican Republic (USD $)
• Ecuador (USD $)
• Egypt (USD $)
• El Salvador (USD $)
• Equatorial Guinea (USD $)
• Eritrea (USD $)
• Estonia (USD $)
• Eswatini (USD $)
• Ethiopia (USD $)
• Falkland Islands (USD $)
• Faroe Islands (USD $)
• Fiji (USD $)
• Finland (USD $)
• France (USD $)
• French Guiana (USD $)
• French Polynesia (USD $)
• French Southern Territories (USD $)
• Gabon (USD $)
• Gambia (USD $)
• Georgia (USD $)
• Germany (USD $)
• Ghana (USD $)
• Gibraltar (USD $)
• Greece (USD $)
• Greenland (USD $)
• Grenada (USD $)
• Guadeloupe (USD $)
• Guatemala (USD $)
• Guernsey (USD $)
• Guinea (USD $)
• Guinea-Bissau (USD $)
• Guyana (USD $)
• Haiti (USD $)
• Honduras (USD $)
• Hong Kong SAR (USD $)
• Hungary (USD $)
• Iceland (USD $)
• India (USD $)
• Indonesia (USD $)
• Iraq (USD $)
• Ireland (USD $)
• Isle of Man (USD $)
• Israel (USD $)
• Italy (USD $)
• Jamaica (USD $)
• Japan (USD $)
• Jersey (USD $)
• Jordan (USD $)
• Kazakhstan (USD $)
• Kenya (USD $)
• Kiribati (USD $)
• Kosovo (USD $)
• Kuwait (USD $)
• Kyrgyzstan (USD $)
• Laos (USD $)
• Latvia (USD $)
• Lebanon (USD $)
• Lesotho (USD $)
• Liberia (USD $)
• Libya (USD $)
• Liechtenstein (USD $)
• Lithuania (USD $)
• Luxembourg (USD $)
• Macao SAR (USD $)
• Madagascar (USD $)
• Malawi (USD $)
• Malaysia (USD $)
• Maldives (USD $)
• Mali (USD $)
• Malta (USD $)
• Martinique (USD $)
• Mauritania (USD $)
• Mauritius (USD $)
• Mayotte (USD $)
• Mexico (USD $)
• Moldova (USD $)
• Monaco (USD $)
• Mongolia (USD $)
• Montenegro (USD $)
• Montserrat (USD $)
• Morocco (USD $)
• Mozambique (USD $)
• Myanmar (Burma) (USD $)
• Namibia (USD $)
• Nauru (USD $)
• Nepal (USD $)
• Netherlands (USD $)
• New Caledonia (USD $)
• New Zealand (USD $)
• Nicaragua (USD $)
• Niger (USD $)
• Nigeria (USD $)
• Niue (USD $)
• Norfolk Island (USD $)
• North Macedonia (USD $)
• Norway (USD $)
• Oman (USD $)
• Pakistan (USD $)
• Palestinian Territories (USD $)
• Panama (USD $)
• Papua New Guinea (USD $)
• Paraguay (USD $)
• Peru (USD $)
• Philippines (USD $)
• Pitcairn Islands (USD $)
• Poland (USD $)
• Portugal (USD $)
• Qatar (USD $)
• Réunion (USD $)
• Romania (USD $)
• Russia (USD $)
• Rwanda (USD $)
• Samoa (USD $)
• San Marino (USD $)
• São Tomé & Príncipe (USD $)
• Saudi Arabia (USD $)
• Senegal (USD $)
• Serbia (USD $)
• Seychelles (USD $)
• Sierra Leone (USD $)
• Singapore (USD $)
• Sint Maarten (USD $)
• Slovakia (USD $)
• Slovenia (USD $)
• Solomon Islands (USD $)
• Somalia (USD $)
• South Africa (USD $)
• South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands (USD $)
• South Korea (USD $)
• South Sudan (USD $)
• Spain (USD $)
• Sri Lanka (USD $)
• St. Barthélemy (USD $)
• St. Helena (USD $)
• St. Kitts & Nevis (USD $)
• St. Lucia (USD $)
• St. Martin (USD $)
• St. Pierre & Miquelon (USD $)
• St. Vincent & Grenadines (USD $)
• Sudan (USD $)
• Suriname (USD $)
• Svalbard & Jan Mayen (USD $)
• Sweden (USD $)
• Switzerland (USD $)
• Taiwan (USD $)
• Tajikistan (USD $)
• Tanzania (USD $)
• Thailand (USD $)
• Timor-Leste (USD $)
• Togo (USD $)
• Tokelau (USD $)
• Tonga (USD $)
• Trinidad & Tobago (USD $)
• Tristan da Cunha (USD $)
• Tunisia (USD $)
• Türkiye (USD $)
• Turkmenistan (USD $)
• Turks & Caicos Islands (USD $)
• Tuvalu (USD $)
• U.S. Outlying Islands (USD $)
• Uganda (USD $)
• Ukraine (USD $)
• United Arab Emirates (USD $)
• United Kingdom (USD $)
• United States (USD $)
• Uruguay (USD $)
• Uzbekistan (USD $)
• Vanuatu (USD $)
• Vatican City (USD $)
• Venezuela (USD $)
• Vietnam (USD $)
• Wallis & Futuna (USD $)
• Western Sahara (USD $)
• Yemen (USD $)
• Zambia (USD $)
• Zimbabwe (USD $)
• Search Clear

Traveling with Babies: How to Fly With A Pack and Play

Whether this is your first time flying with a baby or your tenth, preparing for air travel with your kids is a lot of work and can be stressful. The packing, prep, and travel time can be overwhelming for first-time and experienced parents! From the first time a baby comes home, you need somewhere for them to sleep safely, and as they get older, a spot for them to play without getting into trouble. If you plan on traveling, you will still need these things, which can be particularly difficult when the place you visit isn't exactly baby-proof. A pack n play is a play space, a bassinet, and a diaper changing station, making it the perfect solution. Whether driving or flying, you can fold them up and tuck them away in an easy-to- carry case for travel.

CAN YOU GATE CHECK A PACK-N-PLAY?

When traveling with my three young kids, I purchased small suitcases adorned with their favorite Disney characters, with wheels and a handle for my toddlers. You can also buy a solid color and use fabric markers to decorate and make it unique, so they’ll want to pull it. I bought mine from Amazon for $20, but you can sometimes find them used or even borrow from a friend. The toddler suitcases contained small toys, coloring books, storybooks, and a tablet to help keep the kids entertained during the flight. Each of the toddlers having their own suitcase that contained their belongings helped make traveling memorable, and they

To make things even easier on everyone, all three kids’ clothes were in one checked bag equals less luggage to wait for after the flight. 

I held my infant in a wrap-style baby carrier to allow for hands-free, ensure that the baby was always near, and help keep the baby calm through the noisy space. The long piece of stretchy fabric was easily adjustable to different body types, which made it great for traveling, especially when visiting family. 

When traveling by airplane, some parents rent baby equipment at their destination. Whether a stroller, crib, car seat, high chair, or pack-n-play, these rentals get pricey - upwards of $25 a day per item. If you plan a little, you can bring your own gear and minimize what you carry through the airport! I always brought a stroller as it provided transportation for kids that get tired, a place to put the small suitcases, a bag of snacks we purchased before the ride, and the diaper bag. At your gate, check in at the desk to receive a tag for gate-checking a stroller. Your stroller will be waiting for you when you land at your destination.

HOW DO I FLY WITH A CAR SEAT/BOOSTER SEAT?

Published: Mon, Aug 22, 2022

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Availability

Soccer Scores

Friday, june 14, 2024, uefa european championship, new york city fc, columbus crew, kansas city current, chicago red stars, spanish liga f, sporting de huelva, real madrid, usl championship, loudoun united fc, las vegas lights fc, usl league one, charlotte independence, chattanooga red wolves, international friendly, el salvador, chinese super league.

• J Chen - 87'
• J Ortíz - 90'+2'
• Gustavo - 14', 71' , 
• J Guangtai - 33'

Maurice Revello Tournament

• S Kanda - 21'
• J Baek - 47', 59'
• T Firmansyah - 77'
• T Firmansyah - 90'+1'

Argentine Liga Profesional de Fútbol

Boca juniors, vélez sarsfield, talleres (córdoba), argentine primera c, centro español, brazilian serie b, operario pr, uruguayan primera division, singaporean premier league, kenyan premier league.

• Ulinzi Stars ( 9-9-14 ) 1
• Nzoia United ( 5-7-20 ) 3

Latest Soccer Videos

How a joke 36 years ago turned a whole neighbourhood orange.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Disney Ad Sales Site
• Work for ESPN
• Corrections

• Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
• Luggage & Travel Gear
• Casual Daypacks

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Columbia Men's Mazama 34L Travel Backpack

• Legal carry on size with most airlines
• Clamshell opening
• External access to padded laptop sleeve
• Separate tablet sleeve
• Side compression straps
• Front pocket organization
• One main compartment with internal compression
• Water bottle pocket
• Zippered internal shoe and mesh pockets
• Contoured shoulder straps

You might also like

Product information

Technical details, additional information, looking for specific info, customer reviews.

Our goal is to make sure every review is trustworthy and useful. That's why we use both technology and human investigators to block fake reviews before customers ever see them.  Learn more

We block Amazon accounts that violate our community guidelines. We also block sellers who buy reviews and take legal actions against parties who provide these reviews.  Learn how to report

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top review from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Travelfornoobs

The Complete Packing List for Moscow

Moscow packing list – what you need to bring, how to pack for moscow.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Moscow. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Moscow gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Moscow.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Moscow will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Moscow:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Moscow will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Moscow now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Moscow on Getyourguide:

backpack Moscow business travel list Moscow check list Moscow checklist Moscow checklist travel Moscow Moscow travel checklist Moscow what to pack Moscow what to take essential for Moscow essentials for travelling to Moscow how to dress in Moscow how to pack for a trip to Moscow how to pack for Moscow list for travel to Moscow list of luggage for trip to Moscow list of things to bring on a trip to Moscow luggage list Moscow necessary for Moscow trip packing light for Moscow prepare your backpack for Moscow printable packing list for Moscow the essentials for going to Moscow travel list Moscow vacation packing checklist for Moscow what should I pack for Moscow trip what should I put in my travel bag for Moscow what to bring for a trip to Moscow what to pack for Moscow what to put in my suitcase to go to Moscow what to put in your suitcase for Moscow what to take to go to Moscow what to wear in Moscow

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

5 big travel lessons and one ‘mistake’ from 50 years of Lonely Planet

Co-founder Tony Wheeler shares his best advice from decades of publishing guidebooks

Tony Wheeler has spent half a century traversing the globe but still carries a guidebook. Naturally, it’s his own.

“Just a couple days ago in Brazil, I went to Iguazu Falls,” Wheeler, 76, said during a recent video call from a hotel guest room in New York City . “I went across to Argentina and had the Lonely Planet guidebook. It said to take the walk close to the river level because everybody heads to the top one. You know, the guidebook got it right.”

Wheeler and his wife, Maureen, founded Lonely Planet guidebooks 50 years ago. In 1972, the newly married couple bought a ratty old car in London and drove east, across Europe, and then farther east, to Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan, where they sold their vehicle. In Australia, their final stop, one adventure ended and another began.

Their first publication, “Across Asia on the Cheap,” spawned more than 150 million guidebooks covering 221 countries. It also heralded a new generation of travelers who were young, adventurous and scrappy. Like true rebels, they ventured where few parents had gone before.

“These were books for people in their 20s with no money,” he said. “If their parents had gone to Europe, they were going to Asia. If they were in Europe, they were going down to Spain and across to Morocco. Instead of escaping the States to Mexico, they’d go down to South America. Their horizons were getting larger, wider.”

In 2011, the Wheelers, who split their time between London and Melbourne, Australia, sold their publishing company. Red Ventures, which also owns the Points Guy , took over in 2020. Although they are no longer actively involved in the series and have upgraded their travel style, they still embody the spirit of the “ backpacker’s bible.”

The day after Tony returned from South America, he shared some of the lessons he has learned from his 50 spins around the Lonely Planet.

5 essentials for cool-weather camping this fall

Always carry on

Mishaps happen to even the most seasoned traveler, and you just have to roll with it.

During his recent trip in Brazil, the airline repeatedly canceled his flight to New York. He spent four hours standing in line at the airport counter trying to sort it out. “You can fly across the Atlantic in the Concorde in that amount of time and have a meal, as well,” he said dryly.

Also this year, an incident in France forced the railway to shut down its entire line. Then a torrential rainstorm hit. “I was standing around on a platform with rain pouring down for four hours,” he said.

Wheeler gamely acknowledged that a traveler’s best material often comes from plans that go awry.

“People like to hear the bad stuff,” he said. “No one wants to hear that my flight left on time, my seat was the one I wanted, I liked the meal and my baggage turned up.”

Want to avoid those pesky carry-on fees? Be your own suitcase.

Speaking of lost luggage, he avoids it by limiting himself to carry-on . He said an opera singer friend would have significantly reduced her stress levels had she followed suit. On her flight from Munich to his London home, the airline lost her bags. Several days later, a delivery man drove up in a vehicle packed with hundreds of pieces of luggage waiting to be reunited with their owners.

Travel for the people, not the politics

Of all the travel guides, Wheeler said Burma caused them the most angst. At the time, people were urged to boycott the country to avoid indirectly aiding the brutal military regime. After several research trips, the couple decided to publish the book in 1979 but encouraged travelers to support local businesses and not government-owned ones.

“The locals really wanted the tourists, and it wasn’t just for the money,” Wheeler said. “It was for the communication with the outside world.”

State Department issues ‘worldwide caution’ alert to Americans overseas

Wheeler is similarly conflicted by Iran. “The government’s awful, but the people are wonderful,” he said. To illustrate this point, he described the heartwarming interactions he repeatedly experienced in restaurants. Diners would notice that he was eating alone and spoke English and would invite him to join them at their table.

“How often does that happen in a restaurant in England or America?” he said. “In Iran, that does happen, and I think it’s kind of amazing.”

The eighth edition of “Lonely Planet Iran” is scheduled for release in December 2024, an update to the 2017 version.

Trust your research and instincts

On the subject of crime, Wheeler has been fortunate: He has been a victim only once, when he was mugged in Bogotá, Colombia. He said travelers should thoroughly research a destination but also trust their instincts.

“Things are not always as unsafe as you fear they are,” he said. “Once you get to a place and are out in the streets, you will feel if it is okay or not.”

On a family trip in Guatemala City, the Wheelers set out at night in search of food. The streets were empty and unnerving. But the next morning, they discovered an entirely different city: vibrant, lively, safe.

Wheeler has ventured to more than 170 countries, including many that have faced conflict, such as Syria, Libya and Yemen. He does not take safety lightly. He is intrigued by Nigeria — “It’s the center for movies in Africa and has a lot of entrepreneurial activity ” — but is cautious about visiting Africa’s most populous nation because of safety concerns. Many foreign offices, including the U.S. State Department, advise travelers against visiting Nigeria.

“You start with the idea that it’s not going to be totally safe,” he said, “but I’d like to see it one day.”

Explore ‘two streets over’ from main drag

For countless travelers, Lonely Planet opened the door to unknown or undiscovered places, but some critics say the books worked too well and have led to overcrowding. Wheeler’s solution to overtourism is actually a Lonely Planet tenet. He recommends always going “two streets over” from the main drag for sightseeing as well as shopping, dining and lodging.

Far off the tourist track, Molise offers the best parts of Italy

“Everyone is in St. Mark’s Square,” he said of Venice. “There are other parts of the city you can go to and find churches that are not crowded with tourists.”

Another option: Skip the popular destination for a lesser-visited city, such as Ravenna, which he described as the opposite of Venice. “It almost felt like it was undertouristed,” he said.

Choose a train over a plane

This year, Wheeler has traveled by train in a dozen countries. He said his best train experience was on Amtrak ’s Coast Starlight from Seattle through the San Francisco Bay Area.

“It was a nice train, and there was quite a lot of conversation at the tables in the bar,” he said. “It was what train travel is supposed to be.”

Amtrak WiFi can be infuriating. Here’s how to make it work for you.

When possible, he chooses more eco-friendly modes of travel. For a return trip from Lugano, Switzerland, he took the slower but greener route home: train from Zurich to Paris, then Eurostar to London. In Uruguay and Paraguay, he relied on trains and buses, which have vastly improved since his last overland adventures.

“My bus travel years in South America was a long time ago,” he said. “It felt dangerous all the time, the buses were uncomfortable, and the bus stations were not good places to be.”

This time around, the bus station in Montevideo, Uruguay, was modern and had a great breakfast spot. The buses were comfortable and safe. The seats came with belts that people actually wore. There was an onboard toilet.

“It was definitely a real change from 40 years ago,” he said.

‘A 50-year mistake’

The company’s name did not stem from a romantic notion about connecting travelers or making the world a less forlorn place, but instead from a 1971 documentary film called “Mad Dogs & Englishmen.”

Over too much red wine at a Chilean restaurant in Sydney, the Wheelers discussed the film’s song “Space Captain” and the opening lines sung by Joe Cocker: “Once I was traveling across the sky/ This lovely planet caught my eye.”

Smitten with the lyrics, Tony suggested calling the series “Lonely Planet.” Maureen agreed, but pointed out the misheard word. “It’s been a 50-year mistake,” he said.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .