Turkey is known for its turquoise coastline, arid valleys, Cappadocia terrains, and Aegean beaches. It also has a rich history, lively bazaars and a flavourful cuisine. If you are planning to walk through the old quarters of Istanbul, relax on the beaches, and explore the Cappadocia terrains, then you need to pack smartly.
Turkey experiences different seasons, such as summer, winter, spring and autumn. What to pack depends on where you are going and when. The summer months from June to August are warm and dry, and the coastal areas become humid. The temperature can vary from 26 °C to 36 °C, but nights are considerably cooler. The winter months, from November to February, are colder, and the coastline becomes chilly and damp. The temperature is around 5 °C, and the mountain towns get snowfall.
The best time to visit this country is during spring and autumn, but the weather can become unpredictable. The weather can get sunny and chilly on the same day. Therefore, you need to pack versatile layers and a light jacket too.
You should take the advice of a health practitioner and take the required vaccination before visiting Turkey. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Diphtheria and Tetanus are recommended. Turkey has adopted secularism, but there is a deep influence of Islamic traditions. As a tourist, you should dress modestly while visiting the mosques and smaller towns. It is considered a symbol of respect for the surroundings.
Tips for packing travel documents
Before packing clothes and accessories, you should make sure that you have packed all your essential travel documents safely. Keep all your documents in a bag so that they are easy to access.
- Ensure that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from your date of entry into Turkey. If your hotel collects your passport when you check in, then make sure to take a receipt. Many nationalities, along with Indian citizens, need an e-visa to enter the country.
- You should get travel insurance in case unexpected incidents like theft, delays, and accidents happen. Take a plan that offers baggage loss, health, and cancellation coverage.
- If you plan to rent a car or a scooter, then you need to carry your home country’s driving license and your international driving license. The Turkish authorities check both inside and outside the big cities.
- Keep a copy of your visa, passport, travel documents and ID. Also, upload a backup of the documents online, like on Google Drive.
- Carry Turkish currency, Lira, for small purchases, taxis and street food, especially in the smaller towns. You will find ATMs here, but you have to pay withdrawal fees. Get a minimum of two bank cards.
- Carry copies of your hotel reservation and flight tickets as immigration officers ask for where you are going to stay upon arrival. If you are still finalising your travel plans, then consider flying via Turkish Airlines. It is the flag carrier of Turkey and flies to destinations in Asia, Europe, Oceania, Africa and the Americas.
- Also, carry your prescription medication, allergy information, and register with a travel safety program offered by the government if applicable.
Packing tips for a summer trip
In summer, the inland regions like Cappadocia can get quite hot, and the coastal areas like Bodrum and Antalya can get humid. Dress up for the summer by keeping the local customs in mind.
- For the heat, you can carry tank tops and short-sleeve shirts, but carry something to cover up. Shorts or skirts should be modest if you are visiting smaller towns.
- While visiting the religious sites, wear a cotton pullover or a light-weight long-sleeved shirt. It will also be useful for the evenings. Wear a long skirt or loose pants if you are visiting the rural areas. A headscarf is a must for mosques and also for protection from the sun.
- If you are visiting the coastal areas, then pack a swimsuit, beach tote, and sunglasses.
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Packing tips for a winter trip
In winter, the days are damp while the elevated areas get snowfall; therefore, layering is important.
- You need to pack trousers or warm jeans, a raincoat or waterproof jacket, sweaters and long-sleeved tops, waterproof boots and a headscarf.
Tips for packing gadgets
While visiting Turkey, you will also have to pack electronic gadgets for a hassle-free trip.
- You can use your smartphone for translation, navigation, taking photos, and travel assistance. You can get a local SIM card to get affordable plans for data and calls. You can also check the public transport paths and book taxis easily.
- Turkey uses 220 V electricity and Type C electrical plugs; therefore, you must carry a travel adapter if you are coming from a non-European country.
- While exploring the museums, ancient ruins, and markets all day, your phone’s power will run low; therefore, you should carry high-quality power banks to keep you going.
- If you are into photography, then pack a mirrorless or a DSLR camera, including extra batteries, multiple memory cards and chargers. Though most phones can capture the country’s landscape.
- If you plan to take a boat ride along the coast and bathe in the hot springs, then carry a waterproof phone case or a dry bag to keep your gadgets and other documents safe.
- Pack earbuds or headphones if you are taking long-distance rides or flights. You can listen to your chosen podcast while enjoying tea in a local cafe. If you are catching up on sleep while using public transport or staying at hostels, then use the noise-cancelling ones.
In Turkey, tap water is considered safe to drink, but as a precautionary measure, you should drink mineral water only. It is readily available in hotels, shops and restaurants. Usually, travellers to Turkey do not have any issues with food. Though the country is located in the Middle East, it is progressive and safe for solo women travellers. It is predominantly Muslim; therefore, the women should dress conservatively. It is a popular tourist destination, but cities like Istanbul are cheap for the average traveller.
