What to Pack for Amman. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Season-Specific Attire

Amman's varied climate suggests a versatile approach to clothing, with layering often proving beneficial. Dress for comfort and the season.

Seasonal Recommendations

Spring/Autumn (March-May, Sep-Nov): Light layers for day; a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Consider Long-sleeved shirts, light trousers/skirts.
Summer (June-August): Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen). Loose-fitting clothes, t-shirts, shorts for men are acceptable. A Light scarf helps with modesty or sun.
Winter (December-February): Thermal layers: sweaters, fleeces, warm jackets, slacks, closed-toe shoes. A waterproof outer layer is suitable for rain. Nights are cold.

Cultural Dress Code

Jordan is a conservative Muslim country. While tourists do not absolutely follow local dress codes, modest attire shows respect and helps you fit in.

Modesty Guidelines

Women: Generally, cover shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting tops, long skirts, or trousers are appropriate. A scarf covers hair for mosques or adds modesty.
Men: Long pants and shirts (short or long-sleeved) are generally appropriate. Shorts are acceptable in touristy areas or hotel pools, but less common for local men in public.
Religious Sites: Both men and women must dress modestly, covering arms and legs. Women cover hair when entering mosques; head coverings are often available at entrances.

Footwear for Exploration

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Sturdy, Supportive walking shoes are a must for Amman'the uneven terrain of, archaeological sites (Citadel, Roman Theater), and extensive walking tours. You will walk a lot.

Essential for city and site exploration.

Sandals or Open-Toed Shoes

Sandals are suitable for summer evenings or casual wear. Less practical for long hikes or uneven historical sites due to the terrain.

Good for casual wear, not heavy walking.

Waterproof Footwear

Useful for winter visits because of possible rain. Preserves your feet not wet and comfortable during wet weather.

Recommended for winter months.

Useful Travel Documents

Secure Your Papers

Careful organization of your documents helps prevent travel complications. Keep both physical and digital copies of all important papers. Store copies separately from originals.

Passport and Visa Papers: Valid passport (6+ months validity). Jordanian visa (if pre-arranged) or Jordan Pass printout. Photocopies/digital copies kept apart.
Travel Insurance Policy: Policy number, emergency contacts for insurer, what's covered. Keep digital and physical copies accessible. World Nomads.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Required if hiring a vehicle and your home country's license is not in Arabic or English. Obtain before leaving.
Vaccination Records & Health Documents: Proof of routine vaccinations. Medical notes for pre-existing situations or allergies.

Printed & Digital Reservations: Copies of flights, accommodations, tours, car rentals. Digital copies on the telephone or cloud storage, plus printed backups.
Emergency Contact Information: List of family/friends, local embassy/consulate in Amman, travel insurance emergency line. Give this list to a trusted person at home.
Student/Senior/Press IDs: For potential discounts at some museums or sites (if applicable).
Passport: Ensure it is valid for good for at least six months past your travel dates.

Tech & Connectivity Gear

Powering Your Devices

Modern travel relies on technology. Pack these items to maintain communication and powered throughout your trip. Jordan uses 230 volts, 50Hz electricity.

Electrical Essentials

Plug Types: Mainly Type C, D, F, and G. A Universal travel adapter with multiple plug options highly comes recommended.
Portable Chargers: Highly recommended. These keep your devices charged as you explore, especially for navigation, photos, and communication. Shop for Portable chargers and power banks.
Mobile Phone Compatibility: Jordan uses a GSM network, compatible with almost all international phones. Check if your phone is unlocked.

Staying Connected & Secure

Beyond power, consider how you will get to the internet and protect your digital footprint during your travels in Amman.

Connectivity & Security

SIM Card Options: Local SIM cards are available at AMM and in stores. Providers include Zain, Orange, and Umniah. You must have your passport for registration. Look at Airalo for eSIMs.
VPN Service: A Virtual Private Network safeguards your online activity, particularly on public Wi-Fi. Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
Backup Options: Utilize cloud storage, an External hard drive, or regularly back up photos and documents to a secure server. This protects your memories and information.

Photography & Useful Apps

Camera Equipment

Standard camera equipment suffices. Consider a protective case and extra batteries. A Portable tripod helps for sunset shots from the Citadel. B&H Photo has gear.

Recommended Apps

Google Maps (download offline maps), HERE WeGo for navigation. Uber and Careem for ride-sharing. Google Translate (offline Arabic pack) for translation. Check for hotel/airline apps.

Local Item Availability

Amman is a contemporary city; most common items are available. Specialty items, specific brands, or certain theectronic accessories might be less common or more expensive. Bring preferred toiletries or snacks.

Health & Wellness Essentials

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit enables you handle minor ailments or specific healthcare requirements. Be prepared for common issues.

Kit Contents

Standard First Aid: Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, paracetamol), antiseptic wipes, various bandages, band-aids for blisters, antidiarrheal medication (Loperamide). Shop for a good First aid kit, for example at Adventure Medical Kits.
Prescription Medications: Bring in the original packaging with a copy of the prescription plus medical doctor's note, notably for controlled medications.
Over-the-Counter Medications: Remedies for colds, flu, allergies, and digestive aids (antacids).

Climate & Activity Specific Care

Tailor your health and wellness items to Amman's climate and any specific activities you plan. Prevention is always the best approach.

Specialized Care

Altitude/Motion Sickness: Altitude sickness is not considered an issue in Amman. Motion sickness remedies help for extended road trips on serpentine routes to other areas of Jordan.
Insect Repellent & Sun Protection: Insect repellent is not a major concern within Amman, but Insect repellent helps for rural areas. High SPF Sunscreen, Lip balm with SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and shades are essential.
Water Purification: Not usually for Amman (bottled water is recommended). For remote trekking, a Personal water filter or Purification tablets come in handy.

Personal Hygiene & Specialized Gear

Hygiene Essentials

Most standard hygiene goods are available in Amman.
Bring specific brands if you have preferences or sensitivities.
Consider items that may be difficult or expensive to find locally if they are specialized.

Activity Gear

Hiking: For close reserves (Ajloun, Dana), have appropriate Hiking boots, layering clothing, and a Small backpack.
Rent vs. Bring: For activities outside Amman (snorkeling in Aqaba, canyoning in Wadi Mujib), you can often rent quality gear locally.
Amman Experiences: No particular specialty items are unique to Amman beyond general travel essentials. Focus on comfort and practicality for urban exploration.

Must-Have Extras

Travel Comfort

These items elevate your comfort on your trip, especially on long trips or during rest times. Prioritize a relaxing experience.

A Neck pillow for flights.
An Eye mask for better sleep.
Earplugs for noise reduction.
These aid rest during flights or bus rides.

Security Measures

Peace of mind is accompanied by secure belongings. These items offer added protection for your valuables for the duration of your journey.

A small Padlock for hostel lockers.
A Money belt for valuables.
An RFID blocking wallet for cards.
Pacsafe for anti-theft bags.

Sustainable Choices

Embrace sustainable travel with reusable items, minimizing your environmental impact and promoting responsible tourism.

A Reusable water bottle (fill with bottled water).
A Reusable shopping bag for markets.
Reusable utensils for street food.
Nordace for modern Travel bags.

Activity & Destination Specifics

Activity-Specific Attire

Hiking: For trails in nearby nature reserves, bring comfortable, sturdy Walking shoes or hiking boots. Wear layers, a hat, and Sunglasses.
Swimming (Dead Sea, Hotel Pools): Standard Swimwear holds acceptance at private hotel pools or Dead Sea resorts. Amman itself lacks public beaches.
Religious Visits To sites: Modest dress for both genders; women need a head covering for mosques.
Formal Events: If you plan formal events, pack standard Western smart casual or formal wear as appropriate.

Region-Specific Essentials

Items Difficult or Expensive Locally: While Amman is modern, specialty items or specific brands might be harder to find or more expensive. Bring what you truly rely on.
Region-Specific Necessities: Beyond general travel items, no particular items are unique to Amman. Focus on comfort and respect for local customs.
Hiking: If you plan to hike in nearby reserves (e.g., Ajloun, Dana), bring appropriate hiking boots, comfortable layering clothing, and a little backpack for water and snacks.
No Specific Equipment: Activities unique to Amman typically don't call for specific equipment beyond comfortable walking shoes and appropriate attire.

General Packing Advice

Smart Packing for Urban Exploration

When exploring Amman, thoughtful choices about what you carry each day can significantly impact your comfort and convenience.

Daily Carry Essentials

A small daypack for water, snacks, and souvenirs.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) during daylight hours.
Your camera, with extra batteries or an external battery.
Enough cash for small purchases and tips.

Staying Organized and Hydrated

Organizational Aids

A Reusable water bottle to refill (with bottled water).
Small packing cubes or organizers for your luggage.
A small, accessible pouch for medications and first-aid basics.
Your Jordan Pass or relevant entry documents easily reachable.

Sustainable Choices for Responsible Travelers

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste by refilling a personal bottle with purchased bottled water.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Say no to plastic bags at markets and shops.

Reusable Utensils

Avoid disposable cutlery when enjoying street food.

Digital Guidebooks

Opt for digital versions of maps and guidebooks over paper.

Special Considerations for Comfort & Safety

Comfort Enhancements

Travel Pillow: A small travel pillow makes long rides more comfortable.
Eye Mask & Earplugs: These items aid sleep in varied environments or during noisy travel.
Headphones: Essential for leisure or quiet moments.

Personal Security & Hydration

Money Belt/RFID Wallet: For keeping valuables secure and protected from electronic theft.
Electrolyte Sachets: Useful for combating dehydration in hot weather.
Hand Sanitizer: For hygiene when water and soap are not available.

Packing Smart for Amman

Layering clothing adapts to daily temperature shifts. Prioritize comfort and modesty to enjoy your discovery of Amman.

Keep in mind that area chemists stock most common items, so do not overpack on basic toiletries.

What to Pack for Amman