Travel can be tricky business — on top of booking flights, researching accommodation, and deciding where you actually want to go, women travellers often have the problem of figuring out what to pack. Rightly so, because you don’t want to leave something essential behind or end up needing to spend money on replacements for forgotten items either.
When travelling through Asia, specifically in Mongolia where you’ll likely be doing a lot of outdoor activities, here’s a list of essentials so you’re prepared and can just focus on having a good time:
Clothing
Although the days in Mongolia can be warm, nights can get a bit chilly – even during summer. To face this ever-changing weather, pack clothes that will suit the warm weather when worn on their own, but when layered will keep you nice and toasty.
Your best bet is to pack t-shirts, long and short-sleeved tops for options, and lightweight jackets. Scarves that aren’t too heavy (not wool) are also a good garment to bring, and waterproofs (such as boots and a waterproof jacket and trousers) will serve you well in case of a sudden thunderstorm.
Hygiene and first aid
Keeping clean may become one of your biggest concerns when on a Mongolian adventure, especially with all the outdoor activities you’ll be doing. Sometimes, you might only have a river to wash up in if you’re on long a hike, so taking along biodegradable soap will be helpful. Also, if you don’t want to or can’t take the time to dry any wet clothing, resealable plastic bags are your best bet in keeping your other clothing dry. So you can do laundry while travelling.
A first aid kit may come in handy when you’re on any trip that sees you exploring the great outdoors or a new locale. It’s very important to keep cuts or scrapes from becoming infected and your first aid kit should also have medication to ward off the effects of the unusual foods you may be eating. Your stomach will likely not be used to unused to a Mongolian diet.
While backpacking around Southeast Asia, this contributor realised that choosing to backpack vegetarian had some surprising benefits. Here are her reasons why:
Benefits Of Backpacking As A Vegetarian
Safety equipment
Take along the kind of equipment that can get you out of nasty situations should they occur. Swiss Army knives are brilliant, especially when you’re out in the wilderness, but make sure that you safely tuck it away when not in use and know how to work it. Headlamps are also a must for overnight treks, and remember to pack extra batteries, because your headlamp may be rendered useless after the first few nights. A working, reliable watch with alarm will also help. This way, you’ll definitely get up early for certain events or even just get a start on walking for the day. Finally, women travellers going to Mongolia should invest in a sewing kit, just in case of a wardrobe malfunction. But do take the time to learn at least a few basic stitches.
Food
High-energy snacks such as protein bars and chocolate are good if you’re going on long a long trek. Travel through Mongolia also means that some of the food on offer might not suit your stomach, or even your taste buds, so having another option available that you’ve brought from home is always a good idea.
Of course, you’re going to need water, whether you’re on a three-night hike or a road trip. The last thing you need is to become sick from dehydration in the middle of your travels, so bring a reusable water bottle and make plans stock up on bottled water once you’re in the country. Now you’re all set for your Mongolian adventure.
