Kazakhstan Packing List

A woman sitting on a foldable chair in snowy mountains of Kazakhstan, holding binoculars and enjoying the scenic winter view.

What Should You Pack for Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan’s climate can vary greatly, so layering is key. In the hotter months, pack lightweight clothing such as short sleeve shirts and dresses, but bring a light jacket for cooler nights in cities like Almaty. A rain jacket is useful in spring and fall due to occasional showers. For colder months, pack warm layers, including a heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and a hat, especially if you’re visiting northern areas or the mountains. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for city exploration and hiking trips. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses and sunscreen for protection against Kazakhstan’s strong summer sun.

Make sure you’re prepared to: Explore the modern city of Nur-Sultan, visit Almaty’s mountain landscapes, and discover the Charyn Canyon and Lake Kaindy.

What to Wear in Kazakhstan

In Kazakhstan, casual and practical clothing is recommended, especially for exploring cities and outdoor destinations. Women can wear long dresses or pants when visiting cultural and historical sites, while men typically wear long pants and shirts. Modest clothing is appreciated when visiting religious sites, especially mosques. For hikes in the mountains or trips to national parks, durable outdoor gear and sturdy shoes are important. In the evenings, cities like Nur-Sultan and Almaty have a modern vibe, so smart-casual outfits are ideal for dining out or enjoying the local nightlife.

*Note: This article contains affiliate links based on my own experiences, first-hand testing, and extensive research, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Spring
40 – 65°F
(5 – 18°C )

Summer
70 – 90°F
(21 – 32°C )

Fall
40 – 65°F
(5 – 18°C )

Winter
15 – 35°F
(-9 – 2°C )

Spring: Cool, some rain

Summer: Hot and dry, with some thunderstorms

Fall: Mild, with wind and occasional rain

Winter: Cold, with snow in the north and mountains

Spring
2 inches of rain

Summer
1 inch of rain

Fall
2 inches of rain

Winter
2 inches of rain

Tops & Layers

1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for warm days spent exploring cities like Nur-Sultan and Almaty.

2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler evenings or for layering when hiking in the mountains or visiting national parks.

3. Sweater: A warm sweater is useful for cooler mornings or for traveling through colder regions like northern Kazakhstan.

4. Rain Jacket: Important for unpredictable showers during spring and fall, especially when exploring outdoor sites like Charyn Canyon.

5. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is perfect for cooler evenings and early mornings when exploring the cities or hiking in the foothills.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Comfortable and durable pants are great for city exploration and outdoor activities in places like the Tian Shan Mountains.

2. Leggings: Excellent for hiking or layering under longer dresses for warmth.

3. Dresses: Long, lightweight dresses are perfect for city sightseeing and cultural site visits, especially in warm weather.

4. Shorts: Useful for hot summer days but avoid wearing them in religious or conservative areas.

5. Skirt: A knee-length skirt works well for casual outings or city sightseeing, especially in places like Almaty.

6. Jumpsuit: Stylish and practical for evenings out in cities like Nur-Sultan.

7. Tights: Helpful for layering in cooler weather or for warmth under dresses during colder months.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Kazakhstan’s cities and hiking in the national parks.

2. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days in urban areas or along the Caspian Sea coast.

3. Swimsuit: A must for visiting lakes like Lake Kaindy or relaxing at the beaches along the Caspian Sea.

4. Sunglasses: Important for protection against Kazakhstan’s bright sun, especially in the summer.

5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is useful for sun protection during outdoor activities like hiking or sightseeing in open areas.

6. Scarf: A light scarf can be used for modesty at religious sites or as a windbreaker in cooler weather.

7. Gloves: Warm gloves are essential if you’re visiting Kazakhstan during winter or hiking in colder regions like the Altai Mountains.

8. Boots: Sturdy, comfortable boots are necessary for hiking, particularly in rugged or mountainous areas.

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips between cities like Nur-Sultan, Almaty, and the Caspian coast.

2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while hiking or exploring natural attractions like Charyn Canyon.

3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is perfect for keeping essentials secure while sightseeing or visiting cultural sites.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Layering: Kazakhstan’s temperatures can vary, so packing layers is important for both city exploration and outdoor activities.
  • Modesty: When visiting religious or cultural sites, it’s polite to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.
  • Comfortable Shoes: Durable walking shoes are essential for long walks, city tours, and hikes in the mountains.
A modern architectural structure and fountain in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, under a vibrant blue and golden sunset sky.

Kazakhstan Travel FAQs

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KAZAKHSTAN?

May through September is the best time to visit Kazakhstan, with warm weather ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. June’s also great because it’s perfect for exploring Almaty’s mountain landscapes and national parks.

WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN KAZAKHSTAN?

Nauryz Meyrami (March): The Kazakh New Year celebration with parades, music, and traditional games—great for families and cultural travelers.

Astana Day (July 6): Celebrating the capital city, Nur-Sultan, with concerts, parades, and fireworks—ideal for solo travelers and culture lovers.

Almaty Apple Festival (September): A festival honoring Almaty’s famous apples, featuring food, entertainment, and cultural activities—perfect for families and solo travelers.

Zhibek Zholy Festival (August): A historical festival celebrating Kazakhstan’s Silk Road heritage, with markets, art, and performances—great for families and cultural enthusiasts.

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN KAZAKHSTAN?

Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of modern cities, ancient history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Start in Nur-Sultan, where you can visit the futuristic Bayterek Tower, the Khan Shatyr shopping center, and the National Museum of Kazakhstan. One of my favorite places is Almaty, where you can explore the Zenkov Cathedral, visit the Green Bazaar, and hike in the surrounding Tian Shan Mountains. For nature lovers, Charyn Canyon offers stunning landscapes, while Lake Kaindy and the Altyn-Emel National Park are perfect for hiking and adventure. Don’t miss Turkistan’s historic sites, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT KAZAKHSTAN?

A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring Kazakhstan’s main highlights, including Nur-Sultan, Almaty, and the natural wonders of the Tian Shan Mountains and Charyn Canyon. A shorter 5-day trip will give you a good overview of Nur-Sultan and Almaty, with time for a day trip to Charyn Canyon.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: Day 1: Explore Nur-Sultan’s Bayterek Tower, the National Museum of Kazakhstan, and take a walk along the Ishim River. Day 2: Visit the Khan Shatyr shopping center and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, then enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner in the city.

5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, travel to Almaty, visiting the Zenkov Cathedral, the Green Bazaar, and Panfilov Park. Day 4: Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon and hike through its breathtaking rock formations. Day 5: Hike in the Tian Shan Mountains or take a trip to Big Almaty Lake for stunning views.

1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, visit Lake Kaindy and explore its unique submerged forest. Day 7: Head to Altyn-Emel National Park to see the Singing Dunes and the scenic Aktau Mountains.

10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, explore the historic city of Turkistan, visiting the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Day 9: Return to Almaty for shopping or relaxing at a local café. Day 10: Take a scenic drive along the Zailiysky Alatau Mountains, stopping for scenic views and photo opportunities.

2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit the petroglyphs at Tamgaly, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Day 12: Explore the Kolsai Lakes, a series of alpine lakes surrounded by mountains. Day 13: Spend the day at the Caspian Sea coast, relaxing at a beach or exploring nearby coastal towns. Day 14: Return to Nur-Sultan for a final day of sightseeing and shopping before departure.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN KAZAKHSTAN?

2 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Sweater
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

5 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

1 Week

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

10 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

2 Weeks

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Waterproof Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR KAZAKHSTAN?

Heavy winter coat: Unless visiting in winter, layers are more practical for Kazakhstan’s varied climate.

Revealing clothing: Avoid shorts and tank tops in religious sites and rural areas, as modesty is appreciated.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO KAZAKHSTAN ?

Airfare: $600-$1,300 depending on the season, with higher prices during summer and major festivals.

Accommodation: $40-$120 per night, with options ranging from budget hotels to boutique stays in Nur-Sultan and Almaty.

Transportation: $20-$50 per day for buses, trains, or car rentals, especially when traveling between cities and national parks.

Meals: $20-$60 per day. Kazakh cuisine is affordable, but high-end restaurants in cities will increase the cost.

Activities: $20-$150 depending on entrance fees, guided tours, and outdoor activities like hiking or horse riding.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN KAZAKHSTAN? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Tipping is appreciated but not widely expected in Kazakhstan. In restaurants, leaving 5-10% is common for good service. For tour guides and drivers, tipping $5-$10 per day is appropriate. In hotels, tipping porters and housekeeping staff $1-$2 per bag or per day is appreciated.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT KAZAKHSTAN BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees.
  • Currency: Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT), and while credit cards are widely accepted, it’s useful to carry cash for smaller towns and markets.
  • Public Transport: Kazakhstan has an affordable public transport system with buses and trains connecting cities and tourist areas.
  • Weather: Be prepared for varying weather, especially in the mountains, where temperatures can drop significantly even in summer.

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