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What to Pack for Nampo

What to Pack for Nampo

Nampo North Korea Travel Guide

Spring & Autumn Attire

Gentle and pleasant for the daytime, with cooler evenings. Focus on versatile items.

Packing for Comfort

  • Long-sleeved shirts and thin jumpers.
  • A light jacket for evenings.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.

Summer & Winter Attire

In summer you'll find heat and humidity with monsoons. Winter is freezing and dry.

Seasonal Specifics

  • Summer: Lightweight, airy clothes; a water-resistant coat or umbrella.
  • Winter: Heavy winter coat, warm underlayers, warm accessories.
  • Waterproof, insulated winter boots for cold months.

Footwear Essentials

Comfortable Walkers

Sturdy, broken-in walking shoes for daily sightseeing.

All seasons.

Waterproof Shoes

For summer monsoons or winter snow and ice.

Summer/Winter.

Formal Option

Clean, smart shoes for significant monument visits.

As advised by guides.

Important Documents

Passport & Visa Essentials

Keep these critical documents safe and accessible. Your tour guides manage your passport while in the country.

  • Original Passport (held by guides).
  • Visa (if a separate physical document).
  • Travel Insurance Policy (print & digital copies).
  • Medical Records & Prescription Copies.
  • Confirmed Tour Itinerary (multiple copies).
  • International Flight Reservations.
  • Emergency Contact List (family, embassy).
  • Digital copies on secure cloud or encrypted USB.

Technology & Connectivity

Power Essentials

North Korea uses 220V, 50Hz with Type C/F plugs. Stay powered up with the right equipment.

What to Pack

Mobile & Internet

Internet access for foreigners is in short supply and expensive. Prepare for a digital detox.

Stay Connected Limited

  • Foreign phones are generally allowed.
  • Local SIM cards for international calls can be purchased.
  • Internet access is extremely limited, predominantly in high-end Pyongyang hotels.

Camera & Photography

Rules & Etiquette

Photography is generally allowed in tourist areas. Always ask guides for permission, especially for persons or sensitive infrastructure. Do not photograph military personnel. Never zoom in on images of leaders.

Recommended Gear

Bring extra batteries, memory cards, and a Lens cleaning kit. A compact camera or DSLR with a versatile zoom lens is suitable. Drones are forbidden.

Digital Backup

Cloud storage may be inaccessible. Consider a physical backup solution like an External hard drive or USB stick for photos and important files.

Personal Health Kit

Essential First Aid

Given limited access to local availability, bring a comprehensive first aid kit.

Your Personal Kit

Prescription & OTC

Bring all necessary medications and documentation for a worry-free trip.

Medication Guidelines

  • Adequate supply of all prescription medications (plus extra days).
  • Doctor's note or copies of prescriptions for all medications.
  • Preferred brands of over-the-counter medications for common ailments.

Outdoor Health

Protection from Elements

Personal Hygiene

  • Bring all preferred toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste).
  • Feminine hygiene products.
  • Nampo is at sea level, so altitude sickness is not a concern; motion sickness remedies are for bus travel.

Activity Gear & Miscellaneous

Activity Gear

Standard North Korea tours are sightseeing focused. Specialized gear is rarely needed.

  • No specialized hiking gear for typical itineraries.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are the most specialized item.
  • Your travel company will advise on specific items if needed.
  • No options for renting activity-specific gear.

Rent vs. Bring

Assume you can't purchase or rent items locally. Bring everything you anticipate needing.

  • Virtually all consumer goods are difficult to find.
  • This includes snacks, toiletries, medications, batteries.
  • Local brands may not meet your preferences.
  • Plan to be self-sufficient for your entire trip.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Items for comfort, security, and preparedness.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reduce Waste

  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Pack a reusable shopping bag.
  • Consider a travel mug for hot beverages.
  • Choose eco-eco-friendly toiletries where possible.

Conscious Choices

  • Use rechargeable batteries for electronics.
  • Conserve electricity in your accommodation.
  • Walk when possible within guided areas.
  • Dispose of waste responsibly, as advised by guides.

Items Difficult or Expensive to Purchase Locally

Consumer Goods

Most consumer goods commonly found elsewhere are very hard to find in North Korea.

Examples of Scarce Items

  • Snacks along with certain food brands.
  • Preferred brands of toiletries.
  • Specialized medications or over-the-counter remedies.
  • Batteries of several types.

Electronics & Accessories

Electronic accessories and specific goods are generally unavailable for purchase.

Bring Your Own

  • Camera accessories (extra memory cards, lens cleaners).
  • Headphones or earbuds.
  • Charging cables for all devices.
  • Small flashlight or headlamp.

Destination-Specific Items

Reading Material

Books or e-readers for limited connectivity.

Notebook & Pen

For notes, journaling, or sketches.

Small Gifts

For guides or as tokens of appreciation.

Offline Translator

For basic Korean phrases, a Google Translate pack.

Personal Comfort & Security

Comfort During Travel

  • Neck pillow, Eye mask, Earplugs for long journeys.
  • Reading material (books, e-reader) for down-time.
  • Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for personal preference.

Personal Security

  • Small locks for luggage.
  • Money belt or hidden pouch for foreign currency.
  • RFID protected wallet for cards.

Packing Pro Tips

Create a comprehensive packing list and review it carefully. Assume you are not able to buy anything you forget, as local bazaars are not for foreigners, and tourist shops offer limited selections.

Pack light but comprehensively for maximum comfort and preparedness.