MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Tunis

Season-Specific Clothing

Tunis's Mediterranean climate directs the clothes you pick heavily based on the time of year. Layering often shows value, especially during shoulder seasons.

Clothing by Season

  • Spring & Autumn: Light long-sleeved shirts, t-shirts, lightweight pants/skirts, light jacket or cardigan. A Light rain jacket is beneficial for autumn.
  • Summer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen), loose-fitting clothes. Sun protection garments, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses.
  • Winter: Warmer layers, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers. A Waterproof jacket shows value due to increased rainfall.

Cultural Dress Code

Tunisia is a Muslim-majority country. While generally modern, modesty finds appreciation, specifically when visiting religious sites like mosques or less liberal areas.

Modesty Guidelines

  • For women: Covering shoulders and knees is suggested. Carry a Light scarf or shawl for head covering in mosques.
  • For men: Avoid very short shorts in religious settings. Long trousers or knee-length shorts work for casual wear.
  • Respectful dress aids in avoiding unwelcome notice and shows regard for local customs.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or sturdy Sandals suit city exploration. These offer support for a lot of walking on uneven surfaces in the Medina and historical excavation sites.

City AND Historical Sites

Hiking Boots

If you plan light hiking or walking on uneven terrain outside the city, consider more robust Walking shoes or light hiking boots for better grip and support.

Trails & Uneven Ground

Breathable Materials

Pick breathable materials, especially in warmer months.

Warm Weather Comfort

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keep all important travel documents secure and accessible. Physical copies and digital backups (cloud storage, email, password-protected phone folder) are prudent.

  • Carry your original passport. Be certain its validity goes good for at least six months past your intended stay.
  • If a visa is needed for your nationality, have physical copies of it.
  • Keep secure electronic copies of your passport, visa, and other travel identification. This aids if originals are lost or stolen.
  • For controlled prescription medications, bring a doctor's note.
  • Bring print and digital copies of your travel insurance policy, including emergency contacts. This information brings value during an emergency.
  • Confirm the policy includes coverage for medical emergencies and trip disruptions.
  • Review limits and exclusions carefully.
  • Carry emergency contact details for your insurer.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Tunisia uses Type C and E power outlets (230V, 50Hz). A Universal travel adapter comes strongly suggested. Check if your electronics are dual voltage to skip a voltage converter.

Electricity Notes

  • Use Type C or E adapters.
  • Many modern devices handle dual voltage.
  • A compact power strip expands charging capacity.

Mobile Phone & SIM Options

Mobile networks in Tunisia operate on GSM technology. Your Unlocked smartphone should work. Purchase a local SIM card with your passport to register.

Connectivity Tips

  • Think about activating international roaming with your home provider as a fallback.
  • Local SIMs offer better data rates.
  • Airalo for e-SIMs.

Digital Readiness

Camera Gear

A DSLR or Mirrorless camera with extra batteries for high-quality photos. A Small tripod for night shots.

Portable Chargers

Portable chargers and power banks keep electronics powered up away from outlets.

Apps & Backups

Download offline maps (Google Maps/Maps.me) and language packs (Google Translate). Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos. Consider a USB drive backup.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit Essentials

Assemble a Compact first aid kit. Include basic wound caution and common ailment remedies.

Medications for common issues

  • Adhesive bandages & antiseptic wipes.
  • Pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen), anti-diarrhea meds, allergy medication.
  • Hydrocortisone cream for insect bites or skin irritations.

Prescription Medications

Carry all prescribed drugs in their original packaging. Bring a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note explaining the necessity of each, especially for controlled substances. This aids in avoiding issues at the border. Pack enough for your trip, plus a few extra days.

Travel-sized Toiletries

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness Not applicable for Tunis

  • Tunis is at sea level, so altitude sickness has no concern.
  • No special medication needed for this.
  • Focus on general well-being practices instead.

Motion Sickness

  • If you plan long bus travels or boat trips, bring motion sickness cures if needed.
  • Consider over-the-counter options like Dramamine.
  • Natural remedies like ginger can aid some.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Light Hiking/Trekking

Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots gain suggestion. A Small daypack for water, snacks, plus layers finds value. A Reusable water bottle is a must.

  • Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots.
  • Small daypack for water and snacks.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses.

Swimming/Beach Gear

Pack your Swimsuit, Quick-dry towel, plus fitting sandals or flip-flops.

  • Swimsuit.
  • Quick-dry towel.
  • Sandals or flip-flops.
  • A tote for the beach.

Snorkeling/Diving Gear

If you plan these pursuits, bring your own Mask, snorkel, and fins for better hygiene and fit. Rental options exist in coastal resorts but might not always fulfill your standards.

  • Personal mask and snorkel.
  • Swim fins (optional).
  • A uv shirt.
  • Underwater camera.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Consider bringing personal items for general tourist activities.

  • For most general tourist activities in and around Tunis, bringing personal items is generally superior.
  • Specialized rental options are limited in the city itself.
  • Cars for rent are readily available, but bringing your International Driving Permit is a prerequisite.
  • For water sports at coastal resorts, equipment rentals are common.

Consider renting larger or specialty items.

  • Heavy equipment might be unwieldy to carry.
  • A few items might not see frequent use.
  • Local availability of certain items can vary.
  • Renting has adaptable plans.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort for Travel

Long flights or train journeys welcome comfort items. Pack a Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs. These aid in rest and fresh arrival.

Travel Comfort Items

  • Neck pillow and eye mask.
  • Books or entertainment for relaxation.
  • Snacks for long journeys.
  • Small, foldable tote for souvenirs.

Sustainable Travel

Minimize your environmental footprint. A Reusable water bottle curbs plastic waste; many cafes offer refills. A Reusable shopping bag proves valuable for market purchases.

Eco-Friendly Choices

  • Reflect on Reusable utensils for street food.
  • Use eco-friendly toiletries.
  • Support local, sustainable businesses.
  • Dispose of waste properly.

Destination-Specific Items

Cultural Notes

No specific specialty items are unique to Tunis that you would need to bring. The main requirements are culturally appropriate attire and comfortable footwear for exploration.

Thoughtful Gestures

A small, culturally appropriate gift might be thoughtful if you anticipate being invited into someone from the area home.

Difficult to Find Locally

Specific brands of personal care items, specialized medicines, or high-quality outdoor gear might be difficult to find or more expensive.

Security Items

A travel money belt, RFID blocking wallet, and small combination locks for luggage come highly suggested.

Essential Security Items

Personal Security

  • A travel money belt, worn discreetly, keeps official identification and cash secure.
  • An RFID blocking wallet guards against electronic theft.
  • Small combination locks for luggage put in an extra layer of security.

Data & Connectivity Security

  • Consider a VPN service for secure internet use.
  • Avoid public, unsecured Wi-Fi for delicate transactions.
  • Regularly back up photos and documents to cloud storage.

Packing Pro Tips

Consider layers for varying temperatures. Always carry a light scarf for modesty in holy sites. Good walking shoes make Medina exploration easy.

Opt for quick-dry fabrics, especially in warmer months, to aid in comfort and reduce luggage weight.