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What to Pack for Almaty

Warm Weather Attire Summer

Summer (June-August): Daytime lightweight, moisture-wicking apparel like cotton or linen. Shorts and t-shirts appropriate. Evenings and mountains call for a Light jacket or sweater.

Summer Essentials

Cold Weather Attire Winter

Winter (November-March): Heavy insulation needed. Thermal base layers, fleece, or down mid-layers. A warm, Waterproof winter coat for sub-zero temperatures. Ski pants or insulated Waterproof trousers for outdoor activities.

Winter Accessories

Footwear Recommendations

General City Wear

Comfortable walking shoes for touring the city.

Wide sidewalks and parks.

Mountain Exploration

Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip for treks.

Uneven terrain.

Snowy Conditions

Waterproof, insulated Winter boots with good traction for snow and ice.

Winter travel.

Essential Documents

Documents for Travel

Organizing and ensuring your documents makes your... more efficient travel experience. Make physical and digital copies of everything important.

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip).
  • Visa documentation (printed e-visa or traditional visa).
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information (policy number, emergency contacts, coverage summary).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with national license (if renting a car).
  • Immunization Records (vaccination card, pre-existing conditions info).
  • Hard copies And Electronic copies Of bookings (accommodation, flights, tours).
  • Emergency Contact Information (family, embassy, travel insurance).
  • Concession Cards (ISIC card).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right electronic gear plus extras. Kazakhstan uses 220V, 50Hz. Plug Types: C and F.

Electrical Gear

Camera & Apps

Standard camera gear for vistas, cityscapes, and portraits. A Telephoto lens for wildlife viewing. Gorilla pod useful for bumpy ground.

Recommended Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps, 2GIS (a popular local app with detailed public transport information).
  • Ride-sharing: Yandex Go, InDriver.
  • Translation: Google Translate (download offline Kazakh and Russian language packs).

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Google Drive, Dropbox for photos and documents.

Physical Backup

External hard drive or USB flash drive.

Phone Security

An Unlocked phone is necessary to get LOCAL sim cards.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Medical Kit

Get a... ready personal health kit to manage minor ailments and stay comfortable.

Essential Contents

Specific Health Preparations

Over-the-counter medications for common issues: cold and flu remedies, antacids, motion sickness tablets.

Targeted Items

  • Altitude/Motion Sickness: Dramamine (OTC), Diamox (prescription) for altitude sickness.
  • Insect Repellent: With DEET (20-30%) for mosquitoes and ticks.
  • Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+), Lip balm with SPF, sunglasses.

Water & Safety Tools

Water Purity

Hygiene Essentials

  • Hand sanitizer.
  • Personal Hygiene: Specific brands you prefer.
  • Blister treatment.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Pack gear designed for your planned adventures.

Winter Sports Gear

Easily rent gear at Shymbulak for skiing/snowboarding.

  • Ski/snowboard equipment
  • Warm, waterproof outer layers
  • Gloves, hat, scarf
  • Goggles.

Rent vs. Bring

For winter sports, renting locally at Shymbulak usually more convenient and cost-effective. For hiking, good boots worth bringing.

  • Rent: Ski/Snowboard equipment
  • Bring: Good hiking boots
  • Buy cheaply: Hiking poles
  • Bring: Any specific specialty items not available locally.

Essential Packing Decisions

Items to Bring

  • Personal walking boots for comfort and fit.
  • Prescription medications with documentation.
  • Specific hygiene products or dietary foods.
  • International Driving Permit (if driving).

Items to Rent or Buy Locally

  • Ski and snowboard equipment at Shymbulak.
  • Local SIM cards for affordable data and calls.
  • Basic hiking poles (if not needing high-end).
  • Bottled water for daily consumption.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not forget these little but useful items that enhance comfort and security.

Travel Essentials

General Readiness

While Almaty is well-regarded-stocked, if you rely on specific brands of toiletries, specialized dietary foods, or particular outdoor gear, bringing them is safer.

Smart Packing

  • Sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Portable power bank.
  • Offline maps on your phone.
  • Small Dry bag for protecting electronics or documents during outdoor excursions.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill and minimize plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries.

Travel Utensils

Reduce single-use plastics.

Solar Charger

Eco-friendly device power.

Destination-Specific Items

Cultural Etiquette Items

  • Headscarf for women travelers when visiting religious sites (mosques, Orthodox churches).
  • Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) for religious sites.
  • Slip-on shoes for easy removal at homes or mosques.

Local Purchase Considerations

  • Local apples (especially in autumn) a must-try.
  • Souvenirs: Felt products, traditional Kazakh crafts.
  • Local tea or kumys (fermented mare's milk) for an authentic taste.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack a little Dry bag for protecting electronics or documents during outdoor excursions, especially near inland seas or in damp weather.

Ensure all liquids in your carry-on adhere to airline security regulations.