What should you pack for a trip to Bogotá, Colombia?

Knowing what to pack for Bogota can prove a bit tricky for some travelers. Despite Colombia’s proximity to the equator, Bogotá can experience chilly weather. On days when the sun remains obscured by clouds, the temperature can feel quite cold. And when the sun goes down you better be ready for some very cool nights. How do you stay warm in this chilly city? I’m always on the lookout for effective ways to ward off the cold in Bogotá. But we also need to figure out what to pack for Bogota to wear during the day?

What is the Climate in Bogotá?

Yes, Colombia is near the equator. But keep in mind that Bogota is a high-altitude city. At around 2,600 meters (8,360 feet) above sea level, it can get quite chilly. From time to time it even snows in the towns around Bogota.

So knowing what to pack for Bogota can be a bit tricky. This is not the tropics!

Nighttime temperatures can go down into the mid-40s (that’s a chilly 7 degrees Celsius), and indoor heating is a rarity. On days when the sun doesn’t come out from behind the clouds, it can feel downright cold.

What To Pack For Bogota

It’s not all doom and gloom. The daytime weather can be absolutely glorious. Temps into the 70’s or 80’s(mid 20 degrees Celsius). But know what to pack for Bogota is essential in order to be prepared for the varied weather and temperatures.

The other thing to mention is the you should be prepared for some rain almost daily. Now you might go multiple days in a row with zero rain. Or you might get multiple days in row with everything from a brief shower to a deluge.

 

My second day in Bogota in 2019 the heavens opened and within 5 minutes the streets were a river. It was a bit shocking. It lasted about 10 minutes and just 30 minutes later the sun was out. Expect the unexpected. For this reason I always have a packable umbrella with me.

What to Pack for Bogota

Like a lot of places you want to be thinking about dressing in layers. Stuff you can put in your daypack for walking about the city. Here is what to pack for Bogota that covers everything I will be doing.

I have

• Shorts – both athletic shorts for exercising and cargo style walking shorts(I like pockets)
• Good walking/hiking shoes/dress shoes
• Long pants-  1 pair of jeans and 1 pair casual pants. There are activities where you might be required to wear pants for entry(Gringo Tuesday for example or going into to some nice restaurants)
• T-shirts, golf shirts(these are lightweight and breathable), long sleeve button up shirt
• Tights/leggings
• A jumper or hoodie
• Jackets- I take a thin hooded jacket AND a cheap puff style for a bit more warmth
• Rain jacket- I always take it and I am not sure I have ever used it. But it’s there
• Sun protection- I had the worst sunburn in my life on my bald head after a free walking tour in Bogota. Jesus it was bad. So please get a hat(and some mineral based sunscreen might be a good idea)
• umbrella
• The usual stuff- socks, underwear etc

See Also: The Best Travel Backpack That Opens Like A Suitcase

 

What I Pack For Bogota For Walking Around

When I leave my hostel for a day of walking around Bogota I take a look at what the weather might be for the day. Most days start cloudy and of course cool. Because I know I am going to be walking a lot(10000-20000 steps) I want to be comfortable. Athletic or walking shorts, paired with a t-shirt or golf shirt. My low cut hiking shoes or sneakers and my thin hooded jacket.

My daypack will have sunscreen, water, battery bank and my hoodie. If I am going to a cafe to do some writing I might have my laptop.

When the sun goes down and things get much cooler I am going to change out to my jeans or casual pants and golf shirt and my dressier shoes. I want to try and blend in as much as possible. Colombians always look neat and tidy (and downright stylish for a night out!) and I want to at least look presentable.

See Also: What Are The Best Neighborhoods in Bogota?

What To Wear At Night in Bogota

So you went out with some new friends from your hostel and it was great. You dressed properly for the cool Bogota night and had a fun time. Well done.

Now you are back at your hostel. It is certainly chilly. Most hostels are going to have some nice wool blankets or a thick comforter to help you stay cozy in your bed.

But if you are hanging out in a common area(that may be a roof top or outside terrace) you need to stay warm.

Depending on how casual this gathering is you can easily get away with “lounge wear”. Comfy sweatpants and a hoodie or jumper. Most people are in jeans and a light jacket. A few people may feel the need for a winter cap.

What To Wear For Bed in Bogota

Are you a bed time sock wearer? You might want to keep them on in bed to help with staying warm. And your favorite warm pj’s will be needed. Or sweatpants and a sleep shirt. You will be glad you did as when you have to get up the next morning(or in the night to go to the restroom) it will be cold. 

Your hostel will provide extra blankets if you need them so you can layer up even at bed time.

At least you will be able to enjoy some wonderfully hot Colombian coffee to help warm you up upon rising in the morning.

Have I missed anything?

So what do you pack for Bogota? Please share your thoughts in the comments.