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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Jerash And The North, Jordan

Clothing for Warm Seasons

For spring and autumn, pack lightweight, Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun protection and modesty. A Light jacket, fleece, or sweater suits cooler evenings. In summer, very lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are best. Long sleeves and trousers protect from strong sun. A Wide-brimmed hat is a must.

Items

Clothing for Cold Season & Modesty

For winter (December-February), warmer layers including sweaters, fleeces, and a waterproof or windproof jacket. Jeans or other warmer trousers are suitable. Thermal underlayers prove useful for chilly days. Jordan is a conservative country. While no strict dress code applies to tourists, modest dressing is appreciated, especially outside Amman and when visiting religious sites. Women should have shoulders and knees covered. A Lightweight scarf is useful for covering hair in mosques.

Considerations

  • Warm layers: sweaters, fleeces, waterproof jacket
  • Modest attire: covered shoulders and knees for women
  • Lightweight scarf for religious sites

Footwear Recommendations

Archaeological Sites

The Jerash archaeological site presents ancient stone paths, uneven ground, and many steps. Pack comfortable, supportive, and broken-in walking shoes. Hiking sandals with good arch support are an option for warmer weather.

Comfortable walking shoes

Hiking and Outdoors

If you plan to hike in nearby areas like Ajloun Forest Reserve, pack lightweight, moisture-wicking Hiking pants or Convertible pants. Sturdy Hiking shoes with good ankle support are recommended for trails.

Sturdy hiking shoes

Winter & General

For winter, waterproof shoes are advisable for protection against rain and potential dampness. Flip-flops or sandals suit evenings or inside your accommodation, but not for extensive site exploration. Generally, wear layers; mornings and evenings are cool, while midday becomes warm quickly.

Waterproof options for winter

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Always keep important documents secure.

  • Original Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your departure date, with blank pages.
  • E-Visa/Jordan Pass Confirmation: Printed copies and digital photo backups.
  • Passport Photos: A few spare passport-sized photos.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Digital and printed copies of policy details and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Needed with national license if renting a car.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of hotel, flight, and tour bookings.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family, embassy/consulate, and insurance numbers.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: Check eligibility for discounts at sites.

Technology & Electronics

Power and Connectivity

Jordan operates on 230V, 50Hz. Plug types are Type C (two round pins) and Type G (three rectangular pins, like the UK). A Type G travel plug adapter is useful. A universal adapter works for all. Most modern smartphones are compatible with GSM networks. Local SIM cards are available at AMM airport or phone shops. Major providers are Zain, Orange, Umniah. Plans with data are inexpensive.

Essentials

Gadgets and Apps

A good camera with zoom capabilities captures intricate details. A Compact travel tripod for stable shots. Portable chargers and power banks keep devices charged for extensive exploration. Download Google Maps offline maps for Jordan. Google Translate with offline Arabic language pack. Careem or Uber apps operate widely in Amman. WhatsApp is the main communication app for locals.

Digital Toolkit

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and important documents. A VPN service like ExpressVPN adds security on public Wi-Fi.

External Hard Drive

A small External hard drive presents another backup solution for large photo libraries.

Secure Passwords

Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and consider a password manager.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid

Pack a compact Travel first aid kit with standard items. For Jerash specifically, include blister plasters for extensive walking, rehydration salts, and Insect repellent. Keep prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note. Over-the-counter medications for common issues like pain, allergies, and upset stomach.

First Aid Kit Contents

Hygiene and Sun Protection

High SPF Sunscreen is fundamental due to the strong sun. A wide-brimmed hat and good quality Sunglasses are important. Carry Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially for evenings or rural settings. For water safety and plastic waste reduction, consider a LifeStraw Go water filter bottle or Water purification tablets. Most common hygiene products are available locally, but specific brands or specialized items are best brought from home.

Daily Needs

Special Health Considerations

Altitude Sickness

  • Not typically relevant for Jerash, which is at a relatively low altitude.
  • Monitor symptoms if you plan to visit higher elevation areas in Jordan.
  • Stay hydrated to aid acclimatization.

Motion Sickness

  • Relevant for longer bus journeys on winding roads.
  • Pack remedies if you experience motion sickness.
  • Fresh air and focusing on the horizon are simple aids.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

While no extensive hiking is required within the Jerash ruins, for nearby Ajloun Forest Reserve, consider a small Daypack for water, snacks, and layers. Sturdy Hiking shoes with good ankle support are recommended for trails.

  • Small daypack
  • Sturdy hiking shoes
  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes
  • Water and snacks

Photography Equipment

Your most important gear for Jerash includes a good camera to capture the ruins. A good zoom lens is valuable for intricate details. A Compact travel tripod for stable shots, especially in low light. Consider extra batteries or a power bank.

  • Good camera with zoom lens
  • Compact tripod
  • Extra batteries/power bank
  • Cleaning kit

General Site Exploration

For general exploration, comfortable, broken-in Walking shoes are essential. A small bag for water, snacks, and your camera. Sun protection, including a hat and Sunscreen. These items ensure a comfortable visit.

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Small day bag
  • Water bottle
  • Sun protection

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Items to Rent Locally

  • Car Rental: Widely available in Amman from international and local companies. Renting a car in Amman is more convenient for self-driving around Jordan.
  • Strollers/Baby Gear: Some hotels might have these for guest use.
  • Bicycles: Some hotels might offer bicycles for guest use.
  • Basic camera gear: For casual use, but specialized gear is better brought.

Items to Bring From Home

  • Specialized Hiking Gear: High-quality, specialized Camping gear might be difficult to rent locally.
  • Camera Lenses: If you are a serious photographer, consider bringing a good zoom lens.
  • Specific Medical Supplies: If you require very specific medical supplies, bring them.
  • High-Quality Outdoor Clothing/Footwear: Limited availability or more expensive locally.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

A Travel neck pillow is useful for bus rides. Eye mask and earplugs help if you are sensitive to light or noise. Use Small padlocks for luggage or hostel lockers. A Money belt with RFID blocking or an RFID blocking wallet protects digital information.

Items

Reusable & Practical Items

A Reusable water bottle is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. A reusable Shopping bag proves useful for market purchases. A compact set of Reusable travel utensils helps with street food or picnics. Generally, Jordan has well-stocked supermarkets and pharmacies for most common needs.

Must-Haves

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Solar Charger

Eco-friendly power source.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries.

Biodegradable Toiletries

Minimize environmental footprint.

Destination-Specific Items

Archaeological Site Essentials

  • Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes for uneven terrain.
  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for strong sun.
  • Reusable water bottle for hydration.

Cultural & Comfort Items

  • Modest clothing for cultural sensitivity.
  • Camera with good zoom for detailed photos.
  • Small guidebook or digital guide for historical context.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize items and compress clothing.

Pack a small bag for day trips, keeping your main luggage at your accommodation.