There are two main types of tours organized in Mongolia; Tourist camp based and Remote are based tours. Details specific to your itinerary will explain the accommodations and transportation arrangements, helping you decide what to pack. Below, we have outlined recommendations for what to bring based on the type of tour you choose.
On these tours, you will mostly stay at tourist Ger camps, which provide basic amenities such as bathrooms and meals at their restaurants. Typically, tourist camps offer beds with mattresses, white blankets, and towels. Depending on the location, some camps have full-time electricity, while others use power generators and provide limited electricity, usually available only in the morning and evening.
For this type of tour, we recommend bringing the following items:
1. Suitcases or Backpacks:
If your itinerary involves traveling by car for the entire trip, it is easy to store your belongings in suitcases or backpacks.
2. Small Backpacks:
For short hikes or horseback riding lasting 2–3 hours, you’ll need a small backpack to carry essentials like drinking water and other items.
3. Clothing:
The weather in Mongolia is unpredictable. It’s not uncommon to experience below-freezing temperatures or even snow shortly after a 30°C (86°F) day. Wind, rain, or sudden cold spells are also possible. Checking the weather forecast before your trip is crucial; we recommend using the WINDY app. Specific details about weather conditions will be provided in your itinerary.
Generally, summer is warm and hot across the country, so shorts and T-shirts are comfortable for most activities. However, we strongly recommend bringing warm clothing, including:
– A warm coat or jacket
– A hat
– Long pants
– A long-sleeved sweater
– Comfortable light hiking boots (waterproof boots are ideal)
4. Sunglasses & Sunscreen
The summer sun in Mongolia is harsh, and the wind can cause your skin to tan or crack. Protecting your skin with sunscreen is essential, and sunglasses are crucial for shielding your eyes.
5. Health & Hygiene Items
– Bring enough prescription medication for the entire trip, along with a copy of your prescription.
– Pack over-the-counter pain relievers and basic antibiotics (consult your doctor for recommendations).
6. Personal Care Items:
Essential toiletries include:
– Toothbrush and toothpaste
– Deodorant
– Insect repellent
– Lip balm with SPF
Additional items:
– A headlamp or flashlight
– A water bottle
– A power bank
7. Travel Adapter:
Mongolia uses a 220V system with two-pin European-style plugs. A universal adapter is strongly recommended to accommodate various devices.
8. Gifts for Locals:
During your trip, you’ll have the opportunity to meet local nomadic families, often with children at home during the summer. Small gifts, especially local brands from your home country, are highly appreciated.
9. Local Cash:
In remote areas, ATMs are not available. It is advisable to exchange some Mongolian currency (MNT) before traveling to these regions.
On these tours, you will travel to remote places such as the Altai Mountains, the Reindeer Herder camps, the Eight Lakes region, and other areas for long-term horseback treks. Accommodations will include tents and Gers without access to toilets or showers. During full-day horseback treks or hiking tours, it may rain, get cold, or even snow in these remote regions. Therefore, bringing high-quality clothing is a top priority.
Nur Altai Tour will provide all camping equipment, including tents, chairs, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags—everything is included. You only need to pack your personal essentials.
Note: For tours to the Altai Mountains and Reindeer Herder camps, every traveler must send their passport details to info@nuraltaitour.com in advance, as we will arrange for the necessary border permits before the trip.
For these types of tours, we recommend bringing the following items:
1. Backpacks:
Suitcases are not suitable for travel on horseback or camelback. A 50-80 liter backpack with a waterproof and windproof cover is essential.
2. Small Backpacks:
For day trips or treks, bring a small backpack to carry items like drinking water, snacks, and other essentials.
3. Clothing:
Weather in remote areas is highly unpredictable. In the Altai Mountains, for example, snow can fall after warm, sunny days. Rain is common, and it is often windy in the mountains, which makes it feel even colder. High-quality, windproof, and waterproof clothing is essential, as are good waterproof hiking boots. However, it’s also wise to pack light clothing for warmer, sunny days.
Recommended clothing:
– A warm, waterproof, and windproof coat or jacket
– A warm winter hat
– Waterproof long pants
– Long-sleeved sweaters
– High-quality waterproof hiking boots
4. Sunglasses & Sunscreen:
In the summer, the sun in Mongolia is harsh, and the wind can cause your skin to tan or crack. Sunglasses are crucial for eye protection, and sunscreen is essential for skin protection.
5. Sleeping Bag Liner:
While we provide high-quality sleeping bags and equipment for all tours, the sleeping bags are used by multiple travelers. To ensure comfort and hygiene, we recommend bringing your own sleeping bag liner for use inside the sleeping bag.
6. Health & Hygiene Items:
Bring enough prescription medication for the entire trip, along with a copy of your prescription.
– Pack pain relievers and basic antibiotics if recommended by your doctor.
7. Personal Care Items:
Essential items include:
– Toothbrush and toothpaste
– Deodorant
– Insect repellent
– Lip balm with SPF
Additional items:
– A headlamp or flashlight
– A water bottle
– A power bank
8. Travel Adapter:
Mongolia uses a 220V electrical system with two-pin European-style plugs. It’s a good idea to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with your devices.
9. Gifts for Locals:
During your trip, you’ll meet local nomadic families, many of whom have children at home during the summer. Small gifts, especially locally made items from your home country, are highly appreciated.
10. Local Cash:
Remote areas do not have access to ATMs. Make sure to exchange an adequate amount of Mongolian currency (MNT) before your trip.
Important Tips:
Pack Light: Avoid over-packing, as you may need to carry your own luggage in certain areas. International flights usually allow more weight, but for domestic flights, there’s typically a 15kg baggage allowance, with extra fees for additional weight.
Respect Local Culture: While Mongolia is known for its hospitality, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and traditions.
By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic and memorable Mongolian adventure!