
What Should You Pack for Ukraine?
Ukraine’s varied weather calls for layered clothing. In spring and fall, pack light, breathable clothing for the daytime, but bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Summer can be warm, so pack short sleeve shirts and dresses, but bring a light sweater for nights. A rain jacket is useful in spring and fall, and in winter, a heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and hat are essential, especially in the mountains. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring cities like Kyiv or hiking in the Carpathians. If you’re heading to Odessa in the summer, don’t forget your swimsuit!
Make sure you’re prepared to: Visit Kyiv’s historical landmarks, explore Lviv’s Old Town, or relax on the beaches of Odessa by the Black Sea.
What to Wear in Ukraine
Ukrainian style is casual yet practical, especially for outdoor activities. Women can wear dresses, skirts, or pants when exploring cities, and men usually wear long pants and shirts. Modest clothing is appreciated when visiting churches, especially in religious cities like Kyiv. In the mountains, comfortable outdoor gear is recommended for hiking. On the Black Sea coast, casual beachwear is fine, but cover up when leaving the beach. For evenings in cities like Lviv or Kyiv, smart-casual outfits are perfect for dining out and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
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Spring
50 – 70°F
(10 – 21°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
50 – 65°F
(10 – 18°C
)
Winter
25 – 40°F
(-4 – 4°C
)
Spring: Mild with occasional rain
Summer: Warm and sunny, occasional rain
Fall: Cool with some rain
Winter: Cold with snow, mild in cities
Spring
2 inches of rain
Summer
3 inches of rain
Fall
2 inches of rain
Winter
3 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warm summer days spent exploring Kyiv’s historical landmarks or walking through Odessa’s streets.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler evenings or for layering in spring and fall.
3. Sweater: A warm sweater is useful for evenings, especially in the mountains or during the cooler seasons.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential for spring and fall showers, especially in cities like Lviv or while hiking in the Carpathians.
5. Casual Jacket: A light jacket works well for cooler mornings and evenings in spring and fall, or in the mountains.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable pants are ideal for walking through cities like Kyiv or hiking in the Carpathians.
2. Leggings: Great for hiking or casual wear when paired with longer tops or dresses.
3. Dresses: Long dresses are perfect for summer days in cities or visiting cultural sites like Lviv’s Old Town.
4. Shorts: Suitable for beach days or casual walks on the Black Sea coast, but avoid wearing them in religious sites.
5. Skirt: A knee-length skirt works well for casual outings or visiting historical landmarks like Kyiv Pechersk Lavra.
6. Jumpsuit: Stylish and comfortable, a jumpsuit is perfect for dining out or exploring Kyiv’s vibrant nightlife.
7. Tights: Useful for layering in cooler weather or for additional warmth under skirts or dresses.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Ukraine’s cities and hiking in the Carpathians.
2. Sandals: Ideal for summer days by the Black Sea or for casual strolls in cities.
3. Swimsuit: A must for relaxing on the beaches of Odessa or swimming in the Black Sea.
4. Sunglasses: Important for sun protection while sightseeing or relaxing on the coast.
5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is great for sun protection while exploring outdoor attractions or relaxing at the beach.
6. Scarf: A light scarf can be used for modesty at religious sites or for added warmth in cooler weather.
7. Beach Coverup: Perfect for lounging on the beaches of Odessa or riverside spots in Kyiv.
8. Flip Flops: Great for relaxing at the beach or lakes during the summer.
9. Boots: Warm, sturdy boots are essential for hiking in the mountains or for cold weather in winter.
10. Gloves: Important for keeping warm in colder months, especially in winter.
11. Beanie: A must for keeping warm during Ukraine’s cold winters, particularly in the Carpathian Mountains.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips between cities like Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while hiking or exploring cities.
3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is perfect for keeping essentials secure while shopping in local markets or sightseeing.
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: Pack layers for changing temperatures, especially in the mountains or during cooler evenings.
- Modesty: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites like churches and monasteries.
- Comfortable Shoes: Bring comfortable shoes for walking through cities and hiking in the Carpathians.

Ukraine Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT UKRAINE?
May through September is the best time to visit Ukraine, with warm weather and clear skies, perfect for exploring the cities and hiking in the mountains. July’s also great because it’s ideal for enjoying beach days on the Black Sea in Odessa.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN UKRAINE?
Independence Day (August 24): Celebrated with parades, concerts, and fireworks across the country—great for families and cultural travelers.
Lviv Coffee Festival (September): Held in the beautiful city of Lviv, showcasing the city’s rich coffee culture—perfect for solo travelers, couples, and coffee lovers.
Kyiv Day (last weekend of May): A city-wide celebration featuring concerts, fairs, and street performances—great for families and cultural enthusiasts.
Odessa International Film Festival (July): A prestigious event that draws filmmakers and film lovers from around the world—ideal for solo travelers and film buffs.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN UKRAINE?
Ukraine offers a rich blend of culture, history, and nature. Start in Kyiv, where you can visit the iconic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, St. Sophia’s Cathedral, and explore the bustling Khreshchatyk Street. One of my favorite places is Lviv, known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and coffee culture. For beach lovers, Odessa’s Black Sea coast offers a relaxed vibe with sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. If you’re into nature, head to the Carpathian Mountains for hiking or winter sports. Don’t miss Chernivtsi, known for its picturesque university and historic architecture.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT UKRAINE?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring Ukraine’s key highlights, including Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa. A shorter 5-day trip will give you a great overview of Kyiv and Lviv, with a day trip to the Carpathians if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore Kyiv’s Pechersk Lavra, visit the Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square), and take a stroll through the historic Podil district. Day 2: Visit St. Sophia’s Cathedral, explore the Golden Gate, and enjoy a sunset boat cruise on the Dnipro River.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, travel to Lviv and explore the Old Town, Rynok Square, and the Armenian Cathedral. Day 4: Visit Lviv’s Lychakiv Cemetery, and relax in the city’s many cafes. Day 5: Head to the Carpathian Mountains for a scenic hike or enjoy a day trip to nearby castles like Olesko or Pidhirtsi.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, travel to Odessa and relax on the Black Sea beaches. Day 7: Explore Odessa’s Potemkin Stairs, visit the Odessa Opera House, and stroll through the city’s vibrant streets.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, explore Chernivtsi and visit the UNESCO-listed Chernivtsi National University. Day 9: Return to Kyiv for shopping and relaxing in the city’s parks. Day 10: Take a day trip to Chernihiv, known for its ancient churches and monasteries.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle, one of the most famous fortresses in Ukraine. Day 12: Explore Uzhhorod and its castle, a hidden gem near the Slovak border. Day 13: Spend the day in Ivano-Frankivsk, a charming city with Baroque architecture. Day 14: Return to Kyiv for a final day of sightseeing or shopping.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN UKRAINE?
2 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 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
- 2 Dresses
- 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
- 2 Dresses
- 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
- 3 Dresses
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
2 Weeks
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Fleece Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 4 Dresses
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR UKRAINE?
Heavy winter coat: Unless you’re visiting in winter, layers are more practical for Ukraine’s varied climate.
Revealing clothing: Avoid tank tops and shorts when visiting churches or religious sites, especially in Kyiv.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO UKRAINE ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on the season, with higher prices in summer and during major festivals.
Accommodation: $30-$150 per night, with budget guesthouses to boutique hotels available in major cities.
Transportation: $15-$50 per day for buses, trains, or car rentals, especially when traveling between cities like Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa.
Meals: $20-$60 per day. Local cuisine is affordable, but high-end dining in Kyiv or Odessa will increase your costs.
Activities: $20-$100 depending on entrance fees, guided tours, and cultural experiences.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN UKRAINE? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not required in Ukraine. In restaurants, leaving 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 UKRAINE BEFORE I VISIT?
- Modesty: When visiting churches or monasteries, cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- Currency: Ukraine uses the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH), and while credit cards are accepted in larger cities, it’s useful to carry cash in smaller towns.
- Public Transport: Ukraine has an extensive and affordable public transport system with buses and trains connecting cities and towns.
- Weather: Be prepared for varying weather, especially in the Carpathians, where it can be cooler and rainier than in the cities.