How to Pack for Your Culinary Travel Across Colombia

More Than Just a Checklist

Packing is only part of the journey—if you’re still wondering why visit Colombia in the first place, its blend of culinary creativity, layered traditions, and hospitality might just be your answer. How to pack when traveling across Colombia, when it takes you from Colombia’s Caribbean coast to its Andean valleys, means thinking beyond your usual carry-on strategy. Whether you’re prepping for your first-ever culinary holiday or you’re a returning traveler with a growing collection of spice jars, this packing list will help you navigate two cities, two climates, and one flavor-filled itinerary.

With my family of three, we crossed the globe’s varying climates with two small carry-on-sized suitcases, three backpacks, and one larger rucksack on wheels. We ventured through eighteen countries whose weather ranged from humid to frigid – sometimes in the same country! And when you travel this way (which I know not everyone does), you can’t pack everything for every weather situation. But as our Let’s Eat Colombia culinary holiday takes you from the more humid Cartagena to Medellín—a city with spring-like days and cooler evenings—you want to be ready for both without overpacking.

So we’ve got you covered, from your salsa nights to your summery days, with our packing tips for a perfect exploration of Colombia from Cartagena to Medellín.

Cooking in Comfort

Cooking days mean standing, moving, slicing, and stirring. You’ll want breathable, easy-to-move-in clothing that won’t make you regret skipping the siesta. Think cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics that can handle a Caribbean breeze or an Andean morning chill.

And those cute sandals? Leave them for your off-hours. Closed-toe shoes with grip are the way to go when working around knives, hot pans, or busy markets. We know that you’ll do you, but I have done my duty and informed you what working in a kitchen is like

Hair longer than chin length? Pack a few ties, a bandana, or something to keep it tucked back while you cook – no one wants to find the mystery strand in their ceviche.

Smart Packing for Two Cities

Your culinary adventure with Let’s Eat Colombia starts in Cartagena, where the tropical humidity and warm December temperatures hover in the upper 20s°C (low 80s°F), often accompanied by a coastal breeze and the occasional rain shower. It ends in Medellín, where December tends to be dry and comfortably spring-like—think 22–25°C (72–77°F) during the day and cooler evenings that may call for a light layer.

The key is packing with flexibility in mind. I personally used travel vacuum bags throughout my world tour—they saved precious suitcase space and protected clothes from leaks, sauces, or sudden spills. Highly recommended if you’re hopping between cities.

Layers are your friend:

• Light sundresses, shorts, or linen shirts for Cartagena

• A light sweater or long-sleeve shirt for Medellín’s cooler mornings and evenings

• A compact rain jacket or umbrella (especially for Medellín)

Don’t forget a foldable day bag for market days or afternoon strolls. It’s ideal for holding your water, sunglasses, bug spray, and whatever irresistible treat you discover.

Salsa-Ready Style

Dancing in Colombia is a whole-body experience. Whether you find yourself moving to music in a public plaza or joining a spontaneous salsa lesson in Cartagena, pack one outfit that makes you feel joyful and free.

• Breathable top and trousers, or a skirt that twirls well

• Comfortable shoes you can dance in—something with support but not too grippy (avoid sticking to the floor mid-spin)

No need for heels unless you’re planning a glamorous night out in Bogotá (and even then, I’d think twice).

Coffee-Fueled Days

If your tour includes a visit to a coffee farm, depending on whose hosting the experience, expect early mornings and a bit of walking. It’s worth it.

Pack:

• Closed-toe shoes for uneven ground

• Layers for fluctuating temperatures

• A clean palate—and an open mind

You’ll learn what separates everyday beans from specialty brews, and maybe discover —as we explored in Coffee at the Source—that the perfect roast doesn’t need milk or sugar at all.

Essentials with a Cultural Twist

Some basics you shouldn’t forget:

• Travel-size bug spray

• Sunscreen (for both cities)

• Sunglasses and a hat

• A good phrasebook or Spanish app

• Reusable bags for market visits

And hydration? Non-negotiable.

Check out our stainless steel refillable bottle—it keeps liquids hot for 12 hours and cold for 24. Perfect for any climate.

A Note for Let’s Eat Colombia Guests

If you’re joining our tour, remember: you’ll arrive in Cartagena and depart from Medellín. Most travelers find it easier to fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) and out of José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), but always double-check routes and timing.

We recommend arriving a day before the tour starts and keeping your luggage light, especially if you plan to explore on either end. Bounce has luggage storage options in both cities if you need a flexible drop-off between check-out and departure. You can also check our tips for getting to Cartagena & Medellín to plan the easiest routes for your arrival and departure.

This tour moves through kitchens, markets, music, and stories. Pack to feel good, to stay present, and to be ready for anything from arepas at sunrise to salsa at sunset.

For more ways to Savor Colombia, learn about the Colombian food tour that will change how you travel for food and get ready to travel meaningfully, joyfully, and well-packed.