What to Pack for a Trip to Uzbekistan: a Checklist
Uzbekistan has a sharply continental climate and a few cultural nuances worth keeping in mind when you pack.
Clothing
- Modest clothing for visiting mosques and madrasahs (especially relevant for women — a light scarf to cover shoulders/hair comes in handy)
- Comfortable shoes for cobblestones and uneven mosque courtyards — heels are not your friend here
- Light, breathable fabrics in summer (June-August often goes above 35°C), a warm jacket in winter (December-February can hover around 0°C, especially in the mountains)
Sun protection and health
- High-SPF sunscreen — the summer sun in Uzbekistan is noticeably stronger than in Europe
- A hat and sunglasses
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer — soap and water aren’t always conveniently available on the road
Tech and documents
- A power bank — outlets aren’t always nearby on long intercity drives
- Printed or saved copies of your passport and visa/e-visa confirmation
- A plug adapter (Uzbekistan uses type C and F outlets)
What you don’t really need
- A lot of cash in dollars — most hotels and larger shops in cities accept cards, though bazaars and small teahouses need local currency
This is a general list — exact needs depend on the season and your specific route.