What to Pack for Iran; Essential packing list

Publish Date: 2019-06-04

Pack for trip to Iran isn’t difficult, but it does require some consideration to make sure you have all the essentials for a comfortable and convenient stay. Being governed under Islamic law, Iran has a conservative attitude towards dress, especially for women, which is important to know when packing. To simplify the process and make sure you don’t forget essential items for Iran, use this handy Iran packing list and read Iran packing tips and advice to be ready for a wonderful trip.

Pack based on what you like to do in Iran

As you know, Iran is a vast country, the number of activities you can do and the places you can go are diverse. So, start by considering the purpose of your trip such as cultural excursion, trekking or nature excursion, desert or coastal areas and make an Iran packing checklist of must-haves accordingly.

Comprehensive Packing List for Iran: Summary Table

When planning a trip to Iran, packing the right items ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s a concise packing list tailored for travelers:

Category	Essential Items
Clothing	Modest attire including long-sleeved tops, loose pants or skirts, and a headscarf for women.
	Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and historical sites.
	Seasonal layers such as light clothing for summer and warm jackets for winter and mountainous areas.
Travel Essentials	Passport and visa ensuring validity and meeting entry requirements.
	Cash in USD or Euros as international cards are not widely accepted.
	Travel insurance to cover health and emergencies.
	Local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi for communication and navigation.
Toiletries & Health	Sunscreen and lip balm for protection against sun exposure in arid regions.
	Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
	Tissues and hand sanitizer for use in public restrooms.
	Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal toiletries.
Electronics	Universal power adapter compatible with Type C and F sockets used in Iran.
	Power bank to keep devices charged while traveling.
	Camera or smartphone for capturing photos.
	Chargers and cables for all electronics.
Miscellaneous	Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
	Travel guidebook or app to learn about cultural and historical sites.
	Notebook and pen for journaling or taking notes.
	Small gifts or souvenirs as a gesture for local hospitality.
Quick Tips	Learn a few Farsi phrases to communicate with locals.
	Respect cultural norms, including dressing modestly in public.
	Pack light but leave space for Persian carpets, spices, or other souvenirs you might purchase.

Packing Checklist for a Summer Trip to Iran

It is best to be practical, weather-appropriate and culturally respectful when packing to visit Iran in the summer months.

Here’s Checklist for a Summer Trip to Iran

Light and Humble Garments

Light, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen
long sleeve hired tops and ankle shrunk pants/skirts (for cultural norms)
Scarf Specific to cover head

Comfortable Shoes

Walking shoes or sandals for exploration
Reliable shoes for hiking or desert tours

Sun Protection Essentials

High-SPF sunscreen
Sunglasses and a big-brimmed hat
Lip balm with SPF

Reusable Water Bottle

Be sure to drink plenty of water in the summer heat of Iran
Several lodges and attractions provide refill stations

Travel Documents

Passport and visa
Paper copies of hotel bookings and travel insurance

Electronics and Adapters

Universal Travel Adapter (Iran uses Type C and F plugs)
Portable charger for day trips

Health and Hygiene Items

Basic first-aid kit
Hand sanitizer and tissues
Mosquito repellent for rural areas

Pack based on where you want to go in Iran

Iran is a vast country where mountainous and desert areas are mixed together. The north and west are mountainous and high, the center and east are lowlands and deserts, the south is hot and humid, but the north is cool and humid. The tallest volcano in Asia and the hottest spot on earth are both located in Iran. Therefore, depending on the areas you plan to travel to, you will experience different weather conditions. To choose the right clothes and equipment as the best things to pack for Iran, consider the local weather based on the season of the year you are going to travel to different regions of Iran.

What to pack for Iran in summer

Due to the arid and semi-arid weather conditions, Iran has warm summers that tends to be hot in the south and desert areas. To pack essential items for Iran in summer, think about clothing made up of fabrics such as cotton and linen. Women need to respect hijab by covering body and hair so bring light headscarf and loose clothing in bright color that covers the legs and arms. Any kind of footwear is allowed for both genders, so feel free to wear sandals, flip flops or sneakers. Don’t forget sun protection and shade including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a reusable water bottle, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

also read : how to travel to Iran with kids

what to pack for Iran in winter

Iran is a vast country where mountainous and desert areas are mingled together. So, depending on the areas you plan to travel to, you will experience different weather conditions. For a winter trip to central tourist cities like Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan and Tehran, you can have a jacket or sweater over light layers so you can remove the top layer during the warmer midday hours. If you plan to visit northwest, western or mountainous regions, cover yourself with warmer layers since the temperature can go below zero. By going to the south, you can experience pleasant weather. Winter is the best time to go to the coastal areas and islands of the Persian Gulf and enjoy some water activities. Consider packing an umbrella or small raincoat for possible rain or snow.

what to pack for Iran in spring

Pleasant spring in Iran is the best season of the year to visit the wonders and nature of this country. You can remove all the warming layers and enjoy the weather with light clothes at bright colors. As a woman, don’t forget that you still need to cover your hair and body, for that long sleeves and loose pants or skirts are appropriate. Though the weather is great, a light jacket or sweater are essential items for Iran for the cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes and a reusable water bottle are essential for exploring around.

what to pack for Iran in fall

Autumn is another peak season in Iran. When packing for Iran in autumn, think that the weather is pleasant during the day, warm at noon and cool in the evening. The sunshine is warm, even hot, and the shadows are cool. Based on this fact, best things to pack for Iran are a light jacket over a light breathable t-shirt, dress or shirt so that you can easily remove it at midday. Do not forget to use sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and umbrellas to protect yourself from unexpected rain. You will definitely need a camera to capture the amazing nature of Iran in autumn.

Documents to take with you to Iran

In addition to clothing, you need to consider Iran packing tips and advises for having all the necessary travel documents:

A valid passport: Valid for at least six months
Appropriate visa or Authorization letter: Check the visa requirements for your nationality
Cash and Cards: Carry a mix of local currency (Iranian Rials) and foreign currencies (USD, Euro, GBP are the best to exchange in Iran). International debit/credit cards are not working in Iran. We can help you with cash, just let us know how much you require.
Travel insurance: Recently a mandatory insurance for Iran is issued when you get Iran visa
Persian phrasebook: For easier communication with Iranians.
Your plane tickets
Carnet de Passage for your vehicle

also read : how travel to Iran by your car

What clothes to pack for Iran

By packing the right clothes for a trip to Iran, you will travel freely and comfortably throughout your trip in Iran. Iran hijab rules are based on Islamic rules but it is not as strict as other Islamic countries. In general, modesty is the key to the dress code that should be considered for both genders. Iranian laws also require a certain style of dressing for men, in which short-sleeved shirts and t-shirts are acceptable, but Bermuda shorts are prohibited. Below, we provided an Iran packing list including some essential items for Iran if you wonder what are the best things to pack for Iran.

What kind of clothes to pack for women in Iran?

As an Iran packing advice, we tell if you are not sure what clothes to pack for trip to Iran, choose only one set for getting off the plane and buy clothes that fit at local bazaars and shopping centers.

Modest Tops: Select a few long-sleeved loose-fitting shirts or tunic
Bottoms: Different pants, jeans or leggings or long skirts or dresses
Outerwear: A light sweater or Jacket for cold months or mountainous regions
Headscarf: It is also called Hijab. Use a scarf, shawl or hat to cover your hair
Footwear: Based on the activity pack a pair of walking shoes, sandals or flipflops, trekking boots
Undergarments: Some underwear and socks
Sleepwear: Pajamas or sleepwear
Swimwear: Women are not allowed to wear swimsuit in public or mixed places
Accessories: Belts, Jewelry and accessories, hat or cap
Bag: Small daypack or backpack for day trips, belt bag to keep your essentials secure
Miscellaneous: Sunglasses for eye protection, sunscreen with a high SPF, umbrella or raincoat

What kind of clothes to pack for men in Iran?

If you are wondering what are the best things to pack for Iran for men, you should know that it is quite easy and hassle-free. Pack for trip to Iran the same as you do for other destinations based on the below Iran packing list:

Tops: Suitable Shirt or t-shirt but not sleeveless ones.
Bottoms: Different pants or jeans but not shorts or Bermuda.
Outerwear: A light sweater or Jacket for cold months or mountainous regions
Footwear: Based on the activity pack a pair of walking shoes, sandals or flipflops, trekking boots
Undergarments: Some underwear and socks
Sleepwear: Pajamas or sleepwear
Accessories: Belts, hat or cap
Bag: Small daypack or backpack for day trips, belt bag to keep your essentials secure
Miscellaneous: Sunglasses for eye protection, sunscreen with a high SPF, umbrella or raincoat

Medicines and cosmetics to take with you to Iran

Medications: Pack a reliable amount of personal prescripted medicaments as well as the prescriptions for urgent cases.
First aid kit: Have a basic first aid kit, antiseptic cream, pain killer and medicine for digestive problems.
Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the strong sun rays by carrying sunscreen with a high SPF and a wide-brimmed hat.
Cosmetics: Carry travel-sized hygiene products like shampoo, soap, lotions and toothpaste.
Reusable water bottle: The tab water in Iran is reliable to drink and you can carry water for daily use throughout your journey.

Essentials items to make your trip to Iran more sustainable

Electronic gadgets: Pack a universal adapter to be able to use Type C and F electrical outlets that is used in Iran.
SIM card: Purchase a local SIM card for data and local calls.
Camera and Accessories: Spare batteries, memory cards, and a tripod if needed.
Travel Locks: Ensure the safety of your belongings by using travel locks for your luggage and daypacks.
Pictures of your family and country: To show to the locals. Iranians will be happy to know about your family and friends.
Small gifts: Can be keychains or postcards from your country

also read : is safe to travel to Iran right now?

Vehicle accessories to take with you to Iran

If you are traveling by your own car in Iran, make sure you have enough car equipment. The number of equipment and essential items for Iran may vary based on the type of your vehicle and travel style. As a piece of Iran packing advice, here we provide an Iran packing checklist for you to ensure yourself with level of comfort:

Carnet de passage: You can either get it from your own country or at Iran border. For the latter we can help you.
Dual battery system or solar panels: To provide sufficient electricity for devices.
Extra fuel tank: It will be handy when no fuel stations appear for a long time along the route especially when you are driving near the border.
Navigation tools: To easily find your way.
Roof rack: To support additional load.

Off-road car equipment

Winch: To help you find a way out of trouble.
Roof tent: To sleep where no accommodation is available.
Car fridge: To enjoy fresh food even on expeditions.

Conclusion

Packing list for Iran (Main Considerations) Items we need suchas appropriate clothing, medication, and travel documents. You get to experience the colorful culture and captivating nature of Iran without any hassle by a good packing list to make the most of your journey traveling in this multi-ethnic and stunning country.