What Should You Pack for Mongolia?
Mongolia’s climate is extreme, with very cold winters and hot summers, so it’s essential to pack layers. In summer, lightweight clothing like short sleeve shirts and long pants are ideal, but you should bring a warm sweater or jacket for cooler evenings and higher altitudes. A rain jacket is useful during the summer months, especially when traveling in the mountains. For the winter, pack a heavy coat, thermal layers, and warm accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential for outdoor activities and city exploration.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Visit the Gobi Desert, explore Ulaanbaatar, and hike in the Altai Mountains.
What to Wear in Mongolia
In Mongolia, practical and comfortable clothing is key, especially for outdoor activities. Women and men should wear long pants, shirts, or layers when traveling in cities or rural areas. Modest clothing is appreciated when visiting religious sites like monasteries. For outdoor activities such as hiking in the Altai Mountains or exploring the Gobi Desert, sturdy hiking gear and warm layers are important. In the evenings, casual and comfortable attire works well, as Mongolia’s style is generally laid-back. Don’t forget a scarf for wind protection, especially in open plains and desert areas.
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Spring
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Summer
65 – 85°F
(18 – 29°C
)
Fall
40 – 60°F
(5 – 16°C
)
Winter
10 – 35°F
(-12 – 2°C
)
Spring: Cool and dry, with strong winds in some regions
Summer: Warm and dry, with occasional thunderstorms
Fall: Mild, some rain
Winter: Cold with snow and strong winds in the north
Spring
1 inch of rain
Summer
1 inch of rain
Fall
1 inch of rain
Winter
1 inch of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm summer days while exploring Ulaanbaatar or hiking in the Gobi Desert.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for layering during cooler evenings or for protection from the sun in desert regions.
3. Sweater: A warm sweater is essential for chilly mornings and evenings, especially when staying in rural areas or hiking.
4. Rain Jacket: A must-have for occasional rain showers during the summer, especially in the mountains.
5. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is useful for exploring cities like Ulaanbaatar or for cooler evenings in the countryside.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable, durable pants are perfect for city exploration and outdoor activities in Mongolia’s rugged terrain.
2. Leggings: Useful for layering or wearing under longer tops and dresses, particularly in colder regions.
3. Dresses: Long, modest dresses work well for visiting cultural or religious sites, particularly in hot weather.
4. Shorts: Suitable for outdoor activities, but avoid wearing them in more conservative areas or religious sites.
5. Skirt: A knee-length skirt is perfect for casual sightseeing in cities like Ulaanbaatar.
6. Jumpsuit: Great for evenings out in Ulaanbaatar, offering both comfort and style.
7. Tights: Useful for layering in cooler weather or during trips to Mongolia’s mountainous regions.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Mongolia’s cities and hiking in the mountains or deserts.
2. Sandals: Useful for warm summer days in cities or at ger camps in rural areas.
3. Swimsuit: A must if you plan to visit lakes like Khuvsgul or hot springs in central Mongolia.
4. Sunglasses: Important for eye protection from the intense Mongolian sun, especially in open desert or mountain areas.
5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is perfect for sun protection while exploring the desert or hiking in the mountains.
6. Scarf: Useful for wind protection in the Gobi Desert or open plains, as well as for modesty at religious sites.
7. Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots are essential for trekking in the Altai Mountains or exploring the countryside.
8. Gloves: Warm gloves are a must for cold weather, especially in winter or when traveling to northern regions.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Great for short trips between Ulaanbaatar and other cities or national parks.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying essentials while hiking in the mountains or exploring the Gobi Desert.
3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is ideal for keeping your belongings secure while sightseeing in Ulaanbaatar or shopping in local markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- 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.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- 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.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- 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.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- 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.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- 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.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- 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.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering: Be prepared for significant temperature changes by packing layers, especially when exploring outdoor areas like the Altai Mountains or the Gobi Desert.
- Wind Protection: A scarf or windbreaker is essential for protecting yourself from Mongolia’s strong winds.
- Comfortable Shoes: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are needed for Mongolia’s rugged landscapes.
Mongolia Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MONGOLIA?
June through September is the best time to visit Mongolia, with warm weather and open roads for exploring the countryside. July’s also great because it’s perfect for attending the Naadam Festival and experiencing Mongolia’s culture in its capital, Ulaanbaatar.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN MONGOLIA?
Naadam Festival (July): A national celebration featuring traditional sports like wrestling, horse racing, and archery—great for families, solo travelers, and culture lovers.
Golden Eagle Festival (October): Held in Bayan-Ölgii province, this event celebrates eagle hunting and Kazakh culture—ideal for nature lovers and cultural travelers.
Tsagaan Sar (February): The Mongolian Lunar New Year, celebrated with feasts, family gatherings, and traditional customs—perfect for cultural enthusiasts.
Gobi March (August): An ultramarathon through the Gobi Desert, offering a unique challenge for adventure seekers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN MONGOLIA?
Mongolia offers vast, untouched landscapes and a unique nomadic culture. Start in Ulaanbaatar, where you can visit Gandan Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, and Sukhbaatar Square. One of my favorite places is the Gobi Desert, where you can explore the Flaming Cliffs, Yolyn Am Canyon, and ride camels. For a serene escape, head to Lake Khuvsgul, known for its pristine waters and hiking trails. In the Altai Mountains, you can discover eagle hunters, Kazakh traditions, and beautiful mountain scenery. Don’t miss a visit to the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history and culture.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT MONGOLIA?
A 10-14 day trip is ideal for exploring Mongolia’s key destinations, including Ulaanbaatar, the Gobi Desert, and Lake Khuvsgul. A shorter 7-day trip will give you a good overview of Ulaanbaatar and a day trip to the Gobi Desert.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore Ulaanbaatar’s Gandan Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, and Sukhbaatar Square. Day 2: Visit Terelj National Park for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring Turtle Rock.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, head to the Gobi Desert to visit the Flaming Cliffs and Yolyn Am Canyon. Day 4: Explore the Gobi’s sand dunes and ride camels in the Khongoryn Els area. Day 5: Return to Ulaanbaatar for shopping and exploring local markets like Narantuul Market.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, travel to Lake Khuvsgul, where you can hike, horseback ride, or kayak on the lake. Day 7: Visit Khuvsgul’s local ger camps and learn about the nomadic lifestyle.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, travel to the Altai Mountains to meet Kazakh eagle hunters and explore the stunning mountain landscapes. Day 9: Visit the Tsaatan reindeer herders in the Taiga region. Day 10: Return to Ulaanbaatar for a final day of shopping and sightseeing.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, explore the Orkhon Valley and visit the ancient capital of Karakorum. Day 12: Spend time at the Tsenkher Hot Springs to relax in natural mineral baths. Day 13: Explore Hustai National Park to see the endangered Przewalski horses. Day 14: Return to Ulaanbaatar for a final day of relaxation before departure.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN MONGOLIA?
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 MONGOLIA?
Lightweight summer clothes: Mongolia’s temperature can drop significantly even in summer, so layers are more practical.
High heels: Not suitable for Mongolia’s rugged terrain and outdoor activities.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO MONGOLIA ?
Airfare: $600-$1,500 depending on the season, with higher prices during the Naadam Festival and summer months.
Accommodation: $30-$150 per night, with options ranging from guesthouses to gers (traditional Mongolian tents) in rural areas.
Transportation: $20-$60 per day for buses, private cars, or jeeps, especially when traveling between Ulaanbaatar and remote regions like the Gobi Desert.
Meals: $20-$50 per day. Traditional Mongolian meals are affordable, but higher-end restaurants in Ulaanbaatar may increase costs.
Activities: $20-$150 depending on entrance fees, guided tours, and outdoor activities like horseback riding or camel trekking.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN MONGOLIA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not required in Mongolia. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip 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 MONGOLIA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and monasteries, covering your shoulders and knees.
- Currency: Mongolia uses the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT), and while credit cards are accepted in Ulaanbaatar, cash is preferred in rural areas.
- Public Transport: Mongolia’s roads are often unpaved, so expect long drives when traveling between major cities and rural areas.
- Weather: Mongolia’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for cold nights and sudden storms, even in summer.