What to Pack for Cartagena

I know people say don't play favorites, but I totally do.

When it comes to travel blogs, packing guides are ALWAYS my favorite place to read up. Getting first-hand insight on what I should (and should not) bring to someplace I've never been to is the best way to make sure I'm bringing everything I really need without overpacking.

So, to my fellow packing guide lovers, this post goes out to you! I recently got back from beautiful, sunny, colorful Cartagena, Colombia and today I'm sharing my packing list. This packing list would also work for any hot and humid destination, especially in the Caribbean.

Some disclaimers - I spent half of my week-long trip to Colombia in Cartagena, so this packing guide will get you through about 4ish days. You can easily add a few extra of everything if you're staying longer. I fit all of this in a standard carry-on with plenty of room for my heavier hiking gear for the second half of my trip in Salento.

Our Cartagena agenda called for a midday walking tour, a beach-day out on an island, and dinners at some of the fancier (dressier) restaurants in the area.

• 2 pairs lightweight cotton shorts (NOT denim)

• 2 loose & breezy cotton tops

• 1 cotton v-neck tee

• 1 athletic moisture-wicking tank

• 3 day dresses

• 1 pair of dressy wide-legged cropped printed pants

• 1 bikini

• 1 coverup

• 1 sunhat

• 1 pair of sunglasses

• 1 pair of flip flops

• 1 pair of canvas sneakers

• 4 pairs of socks

• 2 bras

• 4 pairs of underwear

All liquids/creams were 3oz or less and complied with TSA carry-on rules

• Oil-free face sunscreen

• Sport sunscreen

• Clinical strength deodorant (you'll need something heavy duty for this destination!)

• Face lotion

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Makeup remover wipes

• Face cleanser

• Shampoo & conditioner

• Hairbrush

• Hair ties

• Mascara

• Eyeliner

• Brow pencil & gel

• Cream highlighter stick (doubles as an eyeshadow stick)

• Eyelash curler

• Pressed powder

• Fluffy powder brush

• Cell phone charger

• Small backpack (used as a beach bag)

• Passport

• Wallet/Travel Credit Card

• Granola bars

• Books

• Headphones

• Medication - personal Rxs, some headache relief meds, and my flight anxiety meds

Why This Packing List Works

Cartagena is HOT. Like, you step onto the street and are already swimming in a pool of sweat. Gross, yes, but I only like to serve up the truth here at Real World Wanderlust.

This packing list was so helpful at dealing with the heat since I went with loose, breathable clothing. I would sport my cotton shorts and tops during the day and change into a day dress at night. Outfit changes were a MUST. After sightseeing, I would be a sweaty mess before our nicer dinners. It was great having some clean clothes to change into. Having supportive shoes is also advised since Cartagena is sprawling and you'll want to walk around to see it all.

What NOT to Pack

• Denim - it'll be way too hot for heavy fabrics like denim. Opt for more breathable fabrics and leave the jean shorts at home.

• Full Beauty Kit - The humidity will melt your makeup and derail any hairstyle. I tried a blowout one day and had curls within an hour of exploring. Consider your trip a perfect opportunity to give your skin and hair a break from the usual glam routine.

• Heels - Cartagena is a beautiful, sprawling city. The best way to experience it is to just hit the pavement. We logged a few miles every day taking in the sights and I can't imagine the pain if I didn't have supportive flats. Skip your heels and do your feet a favor!

Final Notes

• No need for adaptors! Colombia uses a traditional two-prong outlet like we have in the States. It's a similar plug style to iPhone wall chargers

• I usually just use an ATM to get cash and skip the currency exchange counter. HOWEVER - it was a struggle to spend my larger Colombian bills. Shop keepers would flat out say no since they didn't have change. Colombia is one of the few destinations where I would consider bringing cash to exchange and specifically requesting smaller bills

• When the sun sets, it can get a little chilly, especially if it's a breezy day. While I was perfectly comfortable, If you're someone who is acclimated to warmer temps, a lightweight layer might be a good idea for the evenings

If you're lucky enough to be heading to warmer temps in the Caribbean, like Cartagena, then save this packing list! It'll help you survive sweltering temps and give you plenty of options for a shorter trip. Staying longer than a few days? Simply increase the number of items to extend your coverage. You should still be able to use a carry on even if you're taking a week-long trip.

Do you love jet setting off to warm destinations? I have to admit - I prefer cooler climates! I was simply DYING in the Cartagena heat, but it was so worth it!

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