Packing List for Pakistan
What to pack and what to wear, for every season and every trip, from city tours to Karakoram treks.
How to Use This Packing List
Pakistan has every climate in one country: hot plains, cool hill stations, freezing glaciers and a warm coast. Your packing list for Pakistan depends on where and when you travel. A summer trip to Lahore needs light cotton; a September trip to Hunza needs a warm jacket; a K2 trek needs full mountain gear. Start your list for Pakistan with the essentials below.
Pakistan is a conservative country, so modest clothing is part of every packing list. Loose clothes that cover shoulders and knees are respected everywhere and also keep you cool in the heat.
Documents and Money
- Passport valid for at least 6 months, plus photocopies
- Printed e-visa approval letter
- Travel insurance details (with trekking or adventure cover if needed)
- Hotel bookings and tour itinerary from your operator
- Some US dollars, euros or pounds in clean notes for exchange
- A debit or credit card (cash is still needed in the north)
- Passport photos for SIM cards and permits
What to Wear in Pakistan
| Item | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Tops | Loose T-shirts and shirts; avoid sleeveless | Long, loose tops covering hips; tunics or kurtas |
| Bottoms | Long trousers; shorts only on treks | Loose trousers or long skirts |
| Scarf | Optional | A light scarf (dupatta) for mosques and villages |
| Shalwar kameez | Great to buy locally | Great to buy locally |
| Warm layers (north) | Fleece, down jacket, warm hat | Fleece, down jacket, warm hat |
| Footwear | Walking shoes, sandals, trekking boots for hikes | Walking shoes, sandals, trekking boots for hikes |
| Swimwear | Rarely used; modest only | Rarely used; modest options only |
Women travelling with us can also join our women’s tours, led by a female guide. Adjust your packing list for Pakistan to the season you travel.
Packing List by Season
Health, Electronics and Handy Extras
Health
- Personal medicines with prescriptions
- Oral rehydration salts and stomach medicine
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent
Electronics
- Universal adapter (Pakistan uses type C and D plugs, 230V)
- Power bank; power cuts can happen
- Unlocked phone for a local SIM
- Headlamp for the mountains
Handy extras
- Reusable water bottle with filter
- Toilet paper (often missing outside cities)
- Small lock for bags
- Earplugs and eye mask
Going trekking? Add our trekking gear guide to this list, or rent trekking gear in Pakistan to save bag space. For roads, SIM cards and money, read our guide to the tourism infrastructure of Pakistan, then pick a trip on Our Tours.
Packing List for Pakistan: Printable Quick Checklist
Short on time? Here is the whole packing list for Pakistan on one screen. Tick each item as you pack.
Documents
Money
Clothing
Footwear
Health
Tech
A good packing list keeps your bag light: most things you forget can be bought in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Gilgit or Skardu. Pack light, pack modest and leave space for shawls, dry fruits and gemstones from the bazaars. Travelling with us? We send a personal packing list for your exact route before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for a trip to Pakistan?
Pack your passport and e-visa, modest loose clothing, layers for the north, comfortable shoes, a universal adapter, a power bank, sun protection and personal medicines.
What should women wear in Pakistan?
Long, loose tops and trousers or skirts, with a light scarf for mosques and villages. Many women buy a comfortable shalwar kameez locally.
Do I need warm clothes in summer?
Yes, if you visit the north. Nights in Hunza, Skardu, Naran and at Fairy Meadows can be cold even in July.
What plug type is used in Pakistan?
Pakistan uses type C and D plugs with 230V. Bring a universal adapter.
Can I buy things I forget in Pakistan?
Yes, cities have everything. In the mountains choice is limited, so buy essentials in Islamabad, Gilgit or Skardu first.
Should I bring cash to Pakistan?
Bring some US dollars, euros or pounds to exchange, and a card for ATMs. Cash is needed in the northern areas.
Last reviewed October 2026. Rules and availability can change, so please confirm when you book.
