Preparation Guide for Travelers to Mongolia: Packing List and Advisory for All Seasons
 
For travelers planning a trip to Mongolia, thorough preparation is key. Mongolia is a country of extremes, with unpredictable weather conditions. Your packing list will vary depending on when and where you intend to travel, as well as the type of tour you embark on, be it an organized tour, wilderness expedition, or business trip. In this article, we provide a detailed packing list and advice to ensure you are well-equipped for your journey in Mongolia. Checklists are provided for each season and specific activity tours, offering comprehensive guidance for your adventure.
 
What to Wear on Your Trip to Mongolia:
Clothing is of utmost importance when traveling in Mongolia, as days can be warm while nights tend to be chilly, even during the summer in the Gobi. Layering and warm clothes are essential for comfort and adaptability.
 
T-shirts (long and short-sleeved)
Cotton polo-neck
Cotton slacks
Shorts
Fleece or cashmere jumper
Small thin scarves
Lightweight jacket
Cotton and light woolen socks
Outdoor waterproof boots (tested and tried)
Lightweight shoes or sandals
Sun hat
Large cotton scarf (can be used as a towel, neck guard, or sleeping guard)
Long johns
Thin underwear
Wet-weather gear and waterproof suit (trousers and jacket)
Additional Winter Items (in addition to the summer list):
For winter trips, layering becomes even more crucial. Consider including the following items:
 
Wool or cotton under fleeces
Thermal underwear
Cotton or cashmere pullovers
Polar jacket and furs
Cotton or woolen socks
Leather boots (worn-in and comfortable)
Gaiters (if skiing)
Cashmere under gloves
Woolen hat with ear flaps
Windproof gear
 
Note: In Mongolia, you can find high-quality cashmere products at reasonable prices.
Beautiful afternoon in the grassland, white Gers, green grassland and colorful sky make me relaxed and happy.
 
Items for All Seasons - Packing List:
 
Money belt or neck pouch (for passport, documents, and cash)
Washbag/personal kit
Essential toiletries: shampoo, sunblock, lip balm, eye drops, insect repellent, nail clippers, moisturizing lotion
Day bag for carrying water bottle, camera, and equipment
Water bottle
High-protection sunglasses
Extra prescription glasses
Torch or headlamp with batteries
Swiss Army knife or equivalent
Reliable watch with alarm
Mini sewing kit
Earplugs, eye shades
Lightweight binoculars
Bio-friendly soap, sealable plastic bags for wet clothes
Snacks (e.g., energy bars, chocolate, vitamin supplies if needed)
Maps, magnifying sheet, and map folder; compass, whistle
Matches and lighter, candles
Blanket
Backpack or bag waterproof cover
Notebook, pencils
Phrasebook
 
For Getting Dirty – Pack Things You Don't Mind Getting Ruined:
 
Old clothes that are easily disposable or waterproof trousers
Baby wipes and hand sanitizer for muddy areas and shallow water
For Multiple Landscapes and Seasons – Pack Hot and Cold Clothing:
 
Cardigan, leggings, and fleece for chilly evenings
Thermal top, thermal leggings, and down jacket for colder nights
Shorts, vest tops, and long-sleeve tops for varying daytime temperatures
Rain jacket for unexpected downpours
Sleeping bag (at least Season 3) for camping in colder nights
For Sandflies and Mosquitoes – Pack Strong Bug Repellent:
 
Repellent, after-bite creams, and lotions
Note: No need to worry about malaria in Mongolia
For Time in the Desert Sun – Pack Strong Sun Protection:
 
Sunscreen (at least Factor 30) for the scorching heat, especially in the Gobi Desert
Preparing for Mongolia:
 
For the Language Barrier – Mongolian Phrases Are Hard to Grasp:
 
Learning Mongolian phrases can be challenging due to the fast, low-tone, and mumbled speech
Mastering "thank you" (bayarlalaa) is essential
For a Lack of Variety in Food – Expect a Lot of Beef Stew and Rice:
 
Be flexible with the food options, as some towns may not have a wide selection
Embrace the mostly delicious meals served, even if it's primarily beef stew and rice
Enjoy local snacks and treats to add variety to your meals
Ulaanbaatar is Not Representative of Mongolia – Get Ready For Contrasting Landscapes:
 
Exercise caution in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, as crime rates are higher
Explore beyond the city to experience the true beauty of Mongolia's contrasting landscapes
Engage with locals to understand the rich community-driven culture outside of the capital
 
Extras:
Consider these additional items based on your specific activities and tours:
 
Inflatable pillow (for camping)
Mobile or satellite phone
Universal plug (if you bring a laptop)
Car battery recharge
 
Specific Trip Requirements:
Horse and Camel Riding Tours:
 
Comfortable riding trousers
Leather boots with leather or rubber soles
Low chaps
Hard hat
Riding gloves
Extra mosquito repellent
Sunglasses with strong ties
Wilderness Fishing Adventures:
 
Warm clothing (dress in layers)
Chest waders
Windbreaker/fishing jacket
Chamois flannel or fleece vests
Waterproof hiking boots
Fishing hat with visor
Wooly hat
Fishing mitts
Polaroid sunglasses
Waterproof packed camera
Waterproof tackle bag
Pack fishing rods in tubes
Bring a wading rod, forceps, or pliers for removing hooks
Camping and Hiking in Mongolia:
 
Sleeping bag (three or four seasons)
Thermal mountain blanket
Waterproof cape
Talcum powder (for hiking in summer)
 
First-aid kit
Kit bags for camping equipment
Paper clipper for drying clothes
At Ayan Travel, we provide additional high-quality gear, including tents and camp kitchen equipment, for your camping and hiking needs.
 
By following this comprehensive packing list and advisory guide, you will be well-prepared for your journey through Mongolia. Remember to consider the specific season and activities you plan to engage in. Adapt the list accordingly and ensure you have the necessary gear and equipment for a comfortable and enjoyable experience in this extraordinary country. Safe travels.

Genghis Khan, the renowned Mongolian warrior and founder of the Mongol Empire, is often depicted on a horse as he was a skilled horseman and used cavalry tactics extensively in his conquests. Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, holds great historical significance as it was once part of the Mongol Empire and is now the modern-day center of Mongolian culture and heritage.
 
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