You may have already finished packing, but it never hurts to go through the “must-bring” list one more time to see if any of these things are missing in your luggage. As the saying goes, “better safe than sorry”.
We asked several students who were in Medellín last semester for their suggestions on things that you shouldn’t forget while packing, either for comfort, price or lack. Here is the Top 10 list we made out of the results of our query.
VICO shows 10 objects you can’t forget when packing for Colombia
1. Sunscreen
We already know that everyone likes Medellín’s weather and you are going to love it too for sure! Plus, let’s not forget about the delicious sun and the beaches of Colombia’s coast. However, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t protect yourself from ultraviolet radiation. Because your favorite brand is very likely to be cheaper in your home country, we recommend buying it before coming to Colombia.
2. Umbrella
The best thing about this is that it has a dual use. Indeed, you can use it during an extreme sun or when a torrential rain is falling. Thus, it will be very helpful to carry a small one wherever you go as it is very difficult to know when it will rain in Medellín.
3. Raincoat
If you are not a fan of umbrellas, the best option will be a raincoat. The climate is certainly pleasant in the city of the eternal spring but you will doubtlessly get some heavy rain days.
4. Hairband
Although it might seem obvious for girls to bring these, hairbands are one of those things you always forget. It doesn’t matter if you are a woman or just a man with long hair, this accessory will help you a lot because the heat can be unbearable on certain days. Hence, it’s better to be prepared with several extra hairbands. Besides, many students lamented the low quality of the hairbands made in Colombia.
5. Condoms
An explanation is not necessary unless you are thinking of starting a family in Colombia. It is much better to bring them from home since they tend to be more expensive here.
6. Pills
A small medicine cabinet with pills and medicines that you already know is always a smart option. Also, be sure to add personal hygiene products such as shampoo, creams and tampons for ladies, as they are products that you already know and that tend to be more expensive in Colombia.
7. Cellphone replacement
The chances of something happening to your cell phone are very high: either by clumsiness, carelessness, theft and even just damage, so be prepared for any eventuality.
8. Decoration for the room
Bring a piece of your home to your new home in order to feel more comfortable. Lights, photographs and other small decorative elements will help you give a warm personal touch to your new room.
9. Jeans
It may seem irrelevant to recommend bringing jeans but, as we said at the beginning, they never hurt. Culturally, Colombians prefer to wear jeans even though it is very hot. The “Gringo style” with shorts and flip flops is not really popular or recommended. Think that they will be very useful because they will protect you from the sun, from cold days and you will always be casual wearing them, ready for everything. Do not leave them!
10. Copy of your personal documents
Be cautious, it is always better to be prepared. Many things can happen to your personal documents so it is critical having a copy or a spare of everything: passport, credit cards, ID, cédula de extranjería etc. It should actually be the first thing you should before packing.
Now that you are ready and about to leave for Colombia, you might also want to read about our ultimate security guide to avoid getting in trouble during your stay.
