Packing Checklist

Suggested

Chargers/Adapters

Device chargers and electrical adapters (and a converter if needed); portable charger/power bank

Clothing

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing that mixes and matches easily. Make sure to pack a compact warm top and long pants for cooler desert evenings as temperatures can vary widely, especially at the yurt camp. Bring 10 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry twice. Layer strategically and check the weather and itinerary sections to be realistic about what you'll actually need.

Light windproof/waterproof jacket

Daypack

Small backpack to carry water, camera, and essentials while exploring

Walking shoes

One good pair of broken-in, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes is essential. Trail runners or hiking shoes with good grip are recommended, since sneakers can struggle on the loose, uneven desert terrain.

Sport sandals or flip-flops

Water activities, hotel floors, or just to keep your feet cool and comfortable

Swim items

Swimsuit, quick-dry towel, slip-on sandals

Modest clothing for religious/cultural sites

Shorts below the knee, shirts covering shoulders and arms, and a headscarf for women are needed at mosques (Bibi-Khanym, Poi-i-Kalon, Khast Imam, etc.). Bare shoulders and backs are also generally unacceptable outside religious sites, even in bigger cities — pack accordingly.

Sun protection

Sun block, sunglasses, hat

Flashlight or headlamp

First Aid Kit

Including: lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking

Toiletries

Basic toiletries (some hotels may not provide all items, esp. conditioner); small amount of biodegradable soap for laundry

Optional

Light fleece top

For chilly airports, flights, nights, etc.

Rehydration powder

Like Gatorade, Liquid IV or Nuun

Cooling Items

Portable/rechargeable misting fan, cooling towel

Sleep accessories

Travel pillow, lightweight silk sleep sheet, earplugs

Organization aids

AirTags or Tile trackers, bag locks, packing cubes, ziplock bags

Money belt

Hand sanitizer/baby wipes

Reusable water bottle

There's no cooler or shared water supply on the bus, so plan ahead daily.

Snacks

Packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy

Suggested

Optional

Documents