What to Pack for Pakistan: A Simple Guide for Every Traveler
Hey, friends! If you’re joining us soon on our upcoming adventure to Pakistan with The Hybrid Tours – welcome! We’re SO excited to have you. From mountain views to vibrant cities, cozy chai stops to long scenic drives, this journey is going to be unforgettable. But first… let’s talk about packing.
We know that preparing for a trip to a country you’ve never been to can feel overwhelming – so we’ve made it easy with this simple, no-stress packing list. This guide will make sure you’ve got everything you need for a smooth and comfortable trip. Make sure to check out our visa application article together with our recommended reading lists to get started!
Before you begin reading this, there are 3 things that you will be needing that cannot be purchased, and that are KEY to have a good time in Pakistan. Patience, flexibility and adaptability! Don’t forget that tourism in this country is fairly new and the situation on the ground is constantly changing. That’s why we work with locals, to make sure we’re able to adapt quickly and help you make the most of your time in the country.
Now let’s get to the packing list!
Clothing Essentials
This specific packing list is for those of you traveling around the spring/fall season. The weather around these times of the year is generally warm in cities like Lahore and Islamabad but can get a bit chilly in the mountains – especially in places like Skardu, Hunza, and the Katpana Desert. So packing some layers is the way to go.
For Warm Weather (Lahore, Islamabad, Chillas)
Embrace colors! Locals dress in very colorful attire and you’re more than welcome to do so too. If you do arrive earlier, you can buy some local attire for both men and women and wear this throughout the trip, especially in the cities. It would not be considered cultural appropriation.
- Light, breathable clothing – Think cotton T-shirts, linen shirts, loose trousers/pants, plazzos.
- Modest clothing – Pakistan is a conservative country. We recommend packing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. For women, loose-fitting tops and long skirts or pants work well. You can also wear jeans (not too tight, though!) but if you do, please make sure you pair these up with a long, loose shirt or blouse that covers your bottom. Men should go for long pants or bermudas and T-shirts. If you’re bringing shorts, make sure they go below the knees when entering mosques.
- Scarf (for women) – Bring this! Or a shawl. Great to have handy for visits to mosques or religious sites.
- Traditional clothing: as a foreigner, you CAN buy traditional clothing and it will not be considered to be cultural appropriation. We definitely encourage doing this in the cities! It’s airy
For Slightly Colder Weather (Skardu, Hunza, Katpana Desert)
- A warm jacket – Nights and early mornings can get cold in the mountains. A packable puffer jacket or fleece is ideal.
- Layers – Long sleeves, short sleeves, hoodies, thermals if you’re prone to feeling cold. Please do keep in mind that if it gets sunny it might feel very hot up in the mountains in the middle of the day. Layers are the way to go.
Shoes and On-the-Go Comfort
You’ll definitely want the right shoes for this trip!
- Walking shoes with strong grip OR hiking boots: We’ll be exploring hills, stone paths, and maybe even a bit of off-road – good shoes make a big difference. If you only bring trainers/sneakers, PLEASE make sure they have a strong grip. If you don’t hike, don’t worry! We always keep this in mind on our Hybrid Tours. You can stay behind while others do go further!
- Flip flops or slides: Perfect for hotel stays, showers, or chill time in the evenings.
- Lightweight socks: Keep your feet comfortable during long walks or drives.
Personal Essentials
- Daypack or small backpack: For your daily must-haves – snacks, water, sunscreen, etc.
- Headlamp – Power cuts can be common in northern Pakistan, and many areas get very dark after sunset. A headlamp is far more convenient than using your phone flashlight – especially if you’re hiking.
- Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF: Especially useful at higher altitudes. We’re going up into the Himalayas area, higher altitudes indeed!
- Moisturizer & hand sanitizer: The air can get dry and dusty in certain areas.
We would love to be able to tell you to bring a reusable water bottle, but unfortunately you won’t be able to refill it anywhere. We have to drink bottled water at all times.
Health & Safety
- Dizziness/motion sickness pills: Some roads are long and winding, especially in mountainous areas. If you get carsick, bring what works best for you. Expect long drives.
- Personal medication: Bring any prescription medicine you take regularly – it’s not always easy to find specific brands here.
- Stomach issues? – Let’s get real. While we won’t be venturing into street food territory, and we only eat at VERY hygienic places vouched for by our team, it can take a few days to get used to the food. This is very common for most travelers, no matter how well-traveled they are.
Yes, you might have some stomach issues. Anything you think that might make this experience easier for you, please feel free to bring it. We can also get local remedies on the ground if needed.
- A portable urinary device: This is a Muslim-majority country so, ladies, we cannot relieve ourselves in the wild. But if you’re not comfortable using public toilets in rural areas, you might want to bring a “she-wee” with you to avoid squatting or sitting in certain toilets.
- Mosquito repellent: Not always necessary, but if mosquitoes love you, you’ll thank yourself for this in the evenings.
- Additional Medication: Imodium and anti-malarial tablets. This is not compulsory but if it do makes you feel more comfortable please do bring them along.
- Tampons: Pakistanis don’t usually use these and they’re hard to find. If you do use tampons instead of pads please bring what you’ll need. We personally recommend menstrual cups! They’re game-changers.
- Sunblock/sunscreen: you’ll definitely need this! Please go for at least 30 SPF, 50 ideally. If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, bring tinted sunblock.
- Tissues/wet wipes: bidets are everywhere to be found but toilet paper isn’t. Bring some along with you!
Tech & Connectivity
- Universal adapter – Most power outlets in Pakistan are Type A, C, or D, and the standard voltage is 250V. While your regular plugs might work, a universal travel adapter is a safer bet to stay powered throughout the trip.
- SIM card or e-SIM – We recommend getting one from the airport or an e-sim. Anywhere else it will take time and a passport for registration. This is time consuming. Plan accordingly!
- Offline maps – Download Google Maps offline or use Maps.me before heading into mountain regions.
- Power bank – A high-capacity power bank is a must. Long drives and patchy electricity in remote areas mean you’ll want that backup power.
Money Tips
- Currency: The local currency is Pakistani Rupees (PKR). You can exchange at the airport or use ATMs in cities.
- Cash is king: Especially in smaller towns and villages. Keep smaller bills for snacks, tips, or souvenirs.
- Cards: Some places accept cards, but don’t rely on them — always keep some cash.
- How much to bring: $200-300 USD. This should cover all of your costs. Keep in mind the tip (which is optional) and shopping if you want to do any! Make sure to bring bills in pristine condition. We recommend making sure that they’ve been printed AFTER 2013.
Final Travel Tips
- Tipping: Optional, but appreciated. If you feel someone went out of their way to help you, a small tip goes a long way. We recommend tipping $10 USD per day for your guide, and $3-5 USD for your driver.
- Travel insurance: This is mandatory for all Hybrid Tours — please make sure you’re covered before the trip.
- Visa: If you’re traveling with us, we’ll help you with the visa process. Let us know if you have any questions — we’re here for you!
- Shopping: Lahore and Islamabad are great for souvenirs — just don’t go too wild on the first day. You’ll see a lot of tempting stuff! If you want more local/artisan stuff, just wait till we go to the mountains!
- Donations: Some of the places we visit will involve local community support — The Hybrid Tours has already made contributions on your behalf, but you’re welcome to donate extra if you wish.
With this list, you’ll be well-prepared for everything Pakistan has to offer — from mountain moments to bustling bazaars. We can’t wait to explore with you!
If you’ve got questions about anything, feel free to reach out. And if you’re still thinking about joining us — check out our tour dates and let’s make it happen!
