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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Iran

Season-Specific Clothing

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November): These seasons have comfortable temperatures, making layering the most practical approach.

Daytime & Evenings

  • Daytime: Light layers are suitable, like cotton shirts, blouses, or tunics. Long sleeves and long pants generally apply for cultural reasons.
  • Evenings: Temperatures drop noticeably after sunset. Bring a medium jacket, a fleece, or a warm sweater to stay comfortable.
  • A light scarf is useful for women as an extra layer or for head covering.

Extreme Weather Attire

Summer (June to August): Prepare for very hot and dry conditions. Winter (December to February): Expect cold, dry weather, especially at night.

Summer & Winter Needs

  • Summer: Focus on very light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Loose-fitting clothing is advisable for air circulation.
  • Winter: Wear warm layers, including thermal underwear, Long-sleeved shirts, and sweaters. A heavy jacket, hat, and Gloves are useful for chilly nights.
  • Dust Storms: Carry a light scarf or face covering if sensitive to dust, especially in spring and summer.

Footwear Recommendations

Daily Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy Sandals are recommended. The Old City has narrow, uneven alleys, so good support is beneficial.

City Exploration

Desert Excursions

Sturdier Hiking shoes or boots are helpful for desert tours or trekking in surrounding mountains. These provide better grip and protection against sand and rocky terrain.

Outdoor Trails

Indoor Comfort

Flip-flops or slip-on sandals are convenient for use within guesthouses or hotels, especially if you need to remove shoes frequently.

Relaxed Wear

Essential Documents

Critical Papers for Travel

Keeping your documents organized and accessible smooths your trip.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry your original passport and a printed copy of your visa approval (authorization code) or e-visa confirmation. Keep a digital copy on your phone and in cloud storage as well.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Have both a digital and printed copy of your policy. As travel insurance is mandatory for entry, officials may ask to see proof.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): If you plan to drive in Iran, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally necessary alongside your valid national driving license.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Consult your doctor about what to bring. This might include your international vaccination card or a letter regarding specific health conditions or medications.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Keep copies of your flight tickets (entry and exit), accommodation bookings, and any pre-booked tours. This provides proof of onward travel and confirmed lodging.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Have a list of emergency contacts, including family members, your country's embassy or consulate in Tehran, and local contacts (e.g., your hotel or tour guide). Keep this information easily accessible but also secure.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): While less common for foreigners in Iran, these IDs might offer discounts at some attractions or museums. It is always worth carrying them.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Always have physical copies separate from your originals.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up is easier with the right gear.

Adapters & SIM Cards

  • Power Adapter: Iran uses 220V, 50Hz electricity. Plug types are Type C (Europlug) and Type F (Schuko). A Universal travel adapter is highly recommended. Consider a Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit.
  • Mobile Phone: Most modern mobile phones using GSM networks are compatible.
  • SIM Cards: Purchasing a local SIM card from Irancell or MCI upon arrival is recommended. You need your passport and visa for registration. See Airalo for e-SIM options.

Camera & Apps

Capture your memories and navigate with ease.

Photography & Essential Apps

  • Camera Equipment: A versatile camera (DSLR or mirrorless) with a good zoom lens is useful. A Tripod is helpful for low-light photography. Bring extra batteries and memory cards. A durable Camera bag protects from dust. Check B&H Photo for gear.
  • Portable Chargers: Portable chargers are highly recommended for devices. The Anker PowerCore 20100 Portable Charger is a reliable option.
  • Recommended Apps: Google Maps (offline maps), Maps.me, Google Translate (Persian offline pack), Snapp (Iranian ride-sharing). VPN: Download and set up a reputable VPN (e.g., NordVPN or ExpressVPN) before arrival, as many international platforms are blocked.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Consider cloud storage services (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) to back up your photos and important documents.

External Hard Drive

An External hard drive also serves as a physical backup for large media files.

Secure Valuables

Since you will carry a lot of cash, a Money belt or an RFID-blocking wallet keeps your valuables secure and discreet. Consider Pacsafe anti-theft bags.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit addresses common issues and comfort.

Essential First Aid & Meds

Sun & Hygiene

Protect yourself from the desert elements and maintain personal cleanliness.

Sun Protection & Hygiene Basics

  • Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, Lip balm with SPF, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential for the strong desert sun.
  • Insect Repellent: With DEET or picaridin, notably for evenings or venturing outside the city into desert areas.
  • Personal Hygiene: Specific brands of toiletries you prefer. Hand sanitizer is always useful when soap and water are not readily available.

Water & Wellness

Water Purification Options

Altitude & Motion Sickness General Travel Advice

  • Yazd is at about 1200m; most visitors do not experience significant altitude sickness here.
  • For motion sickness, especially on long bus journeys or winding roads, consider bringing over-the-counter medication.
  • Consult your doctor if you have concerns about altitude or chronic motion sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Desert Tours

If you plan serious hiking or desert excursions, specialized gear elevates your experience.

Photography Essentials

Capture Yazd's unique beauty with the right equipment.

  • Extra batteries and memory cards.
  • A lightweight tripod for night shots of illuminated monuments.
  • A good Camera bag to protect from dust.
  • Consider B&H Photo for gear.

Rent vs. Bring

Decide whether to rent or bring specific items based on quality and availability.

  • Camel Riding Gear: Tour operators will supply all required gear.
  • Bicycles: Rent locally from some guesthouses or rental shops for Old City exploration.
  • Less luggage for rental items.
  • Personal items generally offer better fit and hygiene.

Rent vs. Buy Decision Matrix

Advantages of Renting

  • Reduces luggage weight and bulk.
  • Eliminates concern about damage or loss of personal equipment.
  • Suitable for single-use or specialized activities.
  • Often more cost-effective for short trips or infrequent use.

Disadvantages of Renting

  • Rental gear might not fit as well or be as comfortable as your own.
  • Availability of specific items may vary.
  • Quality of rental equipment is inconsistent.
  • Long-term, purchasing may be cheaper for frequent travelers.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These items enhance comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Essentials for a Smooth Journey

  • Comfort Items: A Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs make long bus or train journeys more comfortable. The BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow offers good support.
  • Security Items: Small padlocks for luggage. A money belt or an RFID-blocking wallet is useful for keeping cash and passport secure. The Lewis N. Clark Travel Money Belt discreetly carries cash. Consider Pacsafe anti-theft bags and travel security products.
  • Digital copies of passport, visa, travel insurance, and emergency contacts on your phone and cloud storage. Carry physical photocopies separate from originals.
  • Small Gifts: Bringing small souvenirs from your home country is a nice gesture, especially as Iranians are very hospitable.

Region-Specific Essentials

Items specifically tailored for your Yazd trip.

Yazd-Specific Must-Haves

  • Light Scarf for Women: Even if you wear a manteau, a light scarf is easy to adjust and useful for ensuring full head coverage.
  • Modest Clothing: Both men and women should pack clothing that adheres to the modesty guidelines. This means long pants for men and loose, full-coverage clothing for women.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: A Reusable water bottle (Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle) helps reduce plastic waste. Fill it with bottled water.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Useful for market purchases. Travel utensils can also be handy.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste; fill with bottled water.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Useful for market purchases and souvenirs.

Travel Utensil Set

Avoids single-use plastics for snacks.

Portable Solar Charger

Eco-friendly power for small devices on the go.

Destination-Specific Items

Cultural Etiquette Items

  • Headscarf (Hijab): Mandatory for women in public.
  • Loose-fitting, full-coverage clothing for both men and women.
  • Slip-on shoes for easy removal at mosques/homes.

Climate Adaptation Items

  • Light scarf/face covering for dust protection in desert.
  • Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
  • Lip balm with SPF for dry desert air.

Smart Packing for Desert Travel

Careful packing with an eye on climate and local customs makes your journey more pleasant. Modesty and practicality work hand-in-hand for comfort and cultural ease.

Consider multi-purpose items to keep luggage light, and always have physical and digital copies of important documents.