If you are planning to travel to Mongolia, we have prepared for you a comprehensive Mongolia packing list of what is needed. Mongolia is a country of extremes and weather is unpredictable, and what you pack will depend on where and when you intend to travel, and how you travel – on tour, on a wilderness expedition or on a business.

Mongolia Packing List

Understanding Mongolia’s Summer Weather

Before diving into the Mongolia packing list, it’s important to understand the climate. Mongolia’s summer weather varies—hot days, cold nights, and unpredictable rain—so packing for Mongolia in July and August requires a mix of lightweight, warm, and waterproof gear.

In July and August, temperatures can range from 30°C (86°F) during the day to 5°C (41°F) at night, especially in the Gobi Desert and mountainous areas. Rain showers are common, and strong winds can make conditions feel colder. Dressing in layers is key to adapting to these shifting temperatures.

Whether you’re exploring the vast steppes on horseback, hiking in the mountains, or camping under the stars, knowing what to pack for Mongolia is crucial.

Best Clothes for Mongolia Travel

Mongolia’s climate changes quickly, so layering is essential. Generally, visitors to Mongolia should be aware of the drastic drop of temperature from day to night. It is strongly advisable to carry a sweater or even light jacket towards the evening.

Winds are a regular feature of Mongolia, with rarely a day without a slow breeze of 4-9 meters per second. In summer cool winds come mostly from north-west and relieving the land from summer heat. However, sudden collision of warmth and cool air can result in sudden heavy rains. We make a point of having raingear ready at all times. Remember, you can always take layers off or put them back on. Also, you will need trekking shoes for horse, camel riding and hiking.

This Mongolia summer packing list covers all the travel essentials for Mongolia, including clothing, horseback riding gear, camping necessities, and hiking equipment. Here’s what to bring:

Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking & Breathable)

  • Quick-dry shirts – Both long and short sleeves to adapt to weather changes
  • Thermal leggings – Useful for cold mornings and nights

Insulating Layers (For Chilly Evenings)

  • Fleece or down jacket – Packable and warm for ger camp nights
  • Wool or synthetic sweater – Keeps warmth even when damp

Outer Layers (Protection Against Wind & Rain)

  • Waterproof & windproof jacket – Essential for Mongolia’s unpredictable rain
  • Lightweight rain pants – Useful when hiking or riding in wet conditions

Pants & Shorts (Comfort for Hiking & Riding)

  • Hiking pants – Durable, breathable, and quick-drying
  • Riding pants or leggings – Provides comfort during long horseback rides
  • Lightweight shorts – Ideal for warm afternoons

Accessories & Extras

  • Gloves – Thin gloves for hiking and horseback riding
  • Hat – Wide-brim hat for sun protection, beanie for cold nights
  • Wool or synthetic socks – Keeps feet dry and prevents blisters
  • Quick-dry underwear – Comfortable and easy to wash
  • Warm sleepwear – Base layers for extra insulation at night, for ger/camping nights

Best Footwear for Mongolia

The right shoes make a big difference in comfort and protection.

  • Waterproof hiking boots – Mongolia’s terrain is rugged—bring sturdy, broken-in boots
  • Riding boots or ankle boots – Essential for long hours in the saddle (check out SOLOGNAC Rubber Boots at Decathlon stores)
  • Camp shoes or sandals – Lightweight footwear for relaxing in ger camps

Mongolia Camping & Hiking Essentials

If you’re camping in Mongolia, these must-haves will keep you comfortable.

  • Sleeping bag (liner) – Rated for 0°C (32°F) or lower for colder nights. On our tours, we provide all the camping equipment, but for added-hygine we would recommend having a sleeping bag liner.
  • Sleeping pad – Lightweight for insulation and comfort (on our guided tours, provided).
  • Headlamp – Essential for dark ger camps and night treks (bring extra batteries)
  • Multi-tool – Handy for small repairs
  • Dry bags – Protect electronics and clothing from rain and dust
  • Trekking poles – Helpful for rough terrains and steep climbs

Mongolia Horseback Riding Gear

Horseback riding is one of the best ways to experience Mongolia, but comfort matters.

  • Riding helmet – Bring your own if not provided
  • Chaps or leg gaiters – Prevent chafing and protect from brush
  • Riding gloves – Improve grip and protect hands
  • Padded shorts – Reduce discomfort on long rides
  • Sheepskin saddle cover – Extra comfort for extended riding trips

Toiletries & Health Essentials for Mongolia

  • High-SPF sunscreen – Mongolia has intense sun exposure, especially at high altitudes
  • Lip balm with SPF – Protect against dry winds
  • Insect repellent – Mosquitoes can be a problem near water sources
  • Wet wipes & hand sanitizer – No showers/bucket showers in some remote areas
  • Toilet paper & travel trowel – Useful when nature calls
  • First aid kit – Includes blister pads, antiseptic, pain relievers, and altitude sickness meds
  • Electrolyte packets – Stay hydrated in Mongolia’s dry climate
  • Personal medications – Stock up on any prescriptions you may need

Electronics & Travel Gear for Mongolia

Electricity and internet access are limited in remote areas.

  • Power bank – Keeps devices charged while off-grid
  • Universal adapter – Mongolia uses Type C & E plugs
  • Camera/GoPro – Capture Mongolia’s breathtaking landscapes
  • Notebook & pen – Journal your adventures
  • Books/Kindle – Great for long travel days with no Wi-Fi
  • Small daypack – Essential for hiking and day trips
  • Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated
  • Water purification tablets – Backup for clean drinking water
  • Binoculars – Great for spotting wildlife in the vast landscapes

Extra Travel Tips for Mongolia

It’s usually better to have a large, flexible bag instead of a hard suitcase to keep your main luggage in, because you will likely load it from luggage compartments to cars and so forth multiple times. You won’t be carrying it around with you every day, however, so it depends on the specificity of your trip. If you have pack animals (usually horses, or camels in some cases) carrying your luggage, soft bags are recommended.

Packing Strategy

  • Use packing cubes – Keeps clothes organized
  • Roll clothes instead of folding – Saves space in your backpack
  • Bring a lightweight duffel or dry bag – Useful for extra gear

Adapting to Mongolia’s Remote Lifestyle

  • Cash is king – ATMs are rare outside Ulaanbaatar, so bring enough cash
  • Learn a few Mongolian phrases – Even simple greetings can enhance your experience
  • Expect limited internet – Download maps and offline resources beforehand
  • Be prepared for long journeys – Distances between destinations are vast

Final Mongolia Travel Tips

  • Pack light – If traveling by horse, luggage space is limited
  • Dress in layers – Mongolia’s weather shifts rapidly
  • Prepare for remote travel – Once outside cities, there are few shops
  • Respect local culture – Ger camps are shared spaces, so follow local etiquette

This Mongolia packing list ensures you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure. Have questions about travel essentials for Mongolia? Let me know in the comments!