Pack for Afghanistan Trips: What to Pack for a trip to Afghanistan
What to Pack for a Trip to Afghanistan. Our recommendations for packing essentials for travelling in Afghanistan.
How to Pack for Afghanistan Trips:
What to Pack for a trip to Afghanistan
Being prepared is at least part of the key to an enjoyable journey. This is even more true for places that are challenging, off the usual tourist track, or culturally very different from your home. For many travellers, Afghanistan will be all three.
So, what should you pack to navigate this land of contrasts with a bit more ease and a lot less stress? After months of travelling in Afghanistan, here are the five things we wouldn’t leave home without—plus a few honourable mentions.
1. Passport + Visa: Your Golden Ticket
Let’s get this out of the way: No visa, no entry. Unlike some countries where you can flash a smile and a passport at the border, Afghanistan’s visa process requires preparation. Make sure you’ve got at least two blank pages in your passport, as the visa sticker takes up a whole page. And no, you can’t get a visa at most borders (the Shir Khan Border is an exception). Processing times vary wildly, from 30 minutes in Peshawar to weeks at some embassies in Europe. Plan accordingly. For more details check out our post on How to Get a Visa to Visit Afghanistan, or for the most detailed info available check out our Afghan Compass ebook.
2. Modest Clothing: Dress Like a Local
Afghanistan’s conservative culture means you’ll probably need to rethink your travel wardrobe. Tight or short clothing, including short sleeved shirts and tank tops are a no-go for men and women alike. For men, we recommend the perahun tunban (also known as shalwar kameez). It’s breathable, comfortable, and has the added bonus of making you look like you belong (at least until you open your mouth).
For ladies, an abaya or long, loose dress paired with a headscarf will serve you well. Bonus tip: Practice tying that scarf before you go—it’s harder than it looks to keep it on your head in the wind. Islamic clothing stores sell jersey cotton underscarves that women wear under their scarf so they can pin the scarf in place.
If you can't find these before you arrive, you can get them easily in all large towns or cities. For more details on what to wear and what to pack check out our Afghan Compass ebook.
3. Cash: Because Your Card Won’t Cut It
Afghanistan is not a card-friendly country. ATMs that accept international cards are few and far between, and the fees are enough to make you wince (think 4-7% per withdrawal, withdrawal amounts limited). The solution? Bring cash. Crisp, new bills are best, as old notes might get you a less favourable exchange rate. Stash it safely, and keep a mix of denominations. For more details on currency exchange, and travel expenses see our post on Afghanistan Travel Costs in 2025.
4. Power Bank: Stay Charged, Stay Sane
Electricity in Afghanistan can be…let’s call it intermittent. Rolling outages of 5-10 hours a day are the norm in many places. A power bank is worth its weight in gold when you’re trying to navigate with Google Maps (which we don't recommend actually, try Organic Maps instead) or capture that perfect sunset shot.
5. Our PDF Travel Guides: Your Secret Weapon
Afghanistan has been off the tourist track for so long that most travel guides are either really outdated or completely irrelevant. That’s where our guides come in. Compiled from our own travels in 2024-2025, they’re packed with essential info on visas, permits, safety, culture, accommodation, and transport. Think of it as your pocket-sized travel guru.
Honorable Mentions
Depending on where you’re headed and how adventurous you’re feeling, you might also want to consider:
Slip-On Shoes: You’ll be taking your shoes off—a lot. Whether you’re entering a mosque, a home, or even some restaurants, easy-to-remove footwear is the go-to in Afghanistan.
Water Filter or Purifier: If you’re venturing off the beaten path, a reliable water purifier (like Grayl) is invaluable. The alternative? Re-live the dysentery from a Short Walk in the Hindu Kush.
Menstrual Products: Ladies, these can be hard to find in smaller towns. Save yourself the hassle and bring your own. In rural areas there are often no waste disposal facilities so if that's on your itinerary, you might want to consider cups or resuables.
Medications: Pharmacy shelves in Afghanistan are hit-or-miss. Pack any prescription meds, plus a mini first aid kit. Gastro and respiratory meds are especially useful.
If you're looking for more tips on how to prepare for your Afghan adventure, check out our interactive PDF travel guides.
Travelling in Afghanistan is an adventure in every sense of the word. With a little preparation - and the right packing list - you'll be ready to handle whatever comes your way. Pack smart, be flexible and get ready to discover the sides of Afghanistan the headlines never show.