PLANNING GUIDE

Mongolia Packing Guide

Everything you need to pack for your Mongolian adventure, from clothing layers to essential gear.

Travel packing and gear for Mongolia

Packing Philosophy

Mongolia's weather can be unpredictable and extreme. The key to comfortable travel is layering. Temperatures can vary dramatically between morning and afternoon, and weather conditions change quickly on the open steppe.

Pack light, but pack smart. You'll be moving between locations frequently, so a medium-sized backpack or soft-sided luggage works better than hard-shell cases.

Clothing Essentials

Base Layers

  • Moisture-wicking thermal underwear (2 sets)
  • Long-sleeve merino wool or synthetic base layer tops (2–3)
  • Lightweight thermal leggings or pants
  • Warm wool or synthetic hiking socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Underwear (enough for the trip + extras)

Mid Layers

  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Insulated vest (optional but recommended)
  • Lightweight down or synthetic jacket
  • Convertible hiking pants (2 pairs)
  • Comfortable casual pants for evenings
  • Long-sleeve shirts (2–3)
  • Short-sleeve t-shirts (2–3)

Outer Layers & Accessories

  • Waterproof/windproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm hat that covers ears
  • Sun hat or cap with brim
  • Neck gaiter or scarf
  • Warm gloves
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sturdy hiking boots (broken in!)
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
  • Sandals for ger stays

Essential Gear & Accessories

✓ Daypack (20–30L) for daily excursions
✓ Reusable water bottle
✓ Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
✓ Power bank for charging devices
✓ Universal travel adapter
✓ Quick-dry towel
✓ Toiletries & personal medications
✓ Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
✓ Lip balm with SPF
✓ Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
✓ Camera with extra batteries/memory cards
✓ Binoculars (for wildlife viewing)
✓ Notebook & pen
✓ Book or e-reader
✓ Lightweight sleeping bag liner (optional)
✓ Ziplock bags for organizing

What NOT to Pack

  • Heavy or bulky items — space is limited
  • Expensive jewelry — keep valuables at home
  • Formal clothing — this is an adventure, not a business trip
  • Cotton clothing — it doesn't dry quickly
  • Too many electronics — embrace the disconnect
  • Full-size toiletries — bring travel sizes or buy locally

Season-Specific Packing

Summer (June–August)

Focus on sun protection and lighter layers. Temperatures can reach 30°C during the day but drop to 10°C at night. Bring insect repellent.

Fall (September–October)

Eagle Festival season! Pack extra warm layers. Temperatures range from 15°C during the day to below freezing at night. Wind can be significant.

Winter (November–February)

Extreme cold gear essential. Temperatures can drop to -40°C. We provide additional winter equipment for winter tours. Contact us for specific requirements.

Pro Tips from Our Guides

  • Break in your hiking boots before the trip — blisters can ruin an adventure
  • Pack clothes in compression bags to save space
  • Bring a small gift from your home country to share with nomadic families
  • Download offline maps and entertainment — WiFi is limited outside cities

Questions about what to pack for your specific tour?

Ask Our Team