Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey? If you're planning to go to Istanbul Atatürk Airport, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Istanbul Atatürk Airport
- Important essentials for Istanbul Atatürk Airport
- Activities for Istanbul Atatürk Airport
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in January: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in February: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in March: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in April: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in May: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in June: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in July: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in August: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in September: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in October: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in November: weather and what to pack
- Istanbul Atatürk Airport in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey
Based on the climate and weather in Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Istanbul Atatürk Airport, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey by month
January
January for Istanbul Atatürk Airport can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
If you visit Istanbul Atatürk Airport during February, you will probably notice that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
March
In March, Istanbul Atatürk Airport can be brisk. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul Atatürk Airport, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
April
April in Istanbul Atatürk Airport is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
If you visit Istanbul Atatürk Airport during June, you will probably find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
If you vacation in Istanbul Atatürk Airport during July, you might find that it is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your things stay dry. Even the most durable suitcases can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
August
If you vacation in Istanbul Atatürk Airport during August, you will probably notice that it is hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
September in Istanbul Atatürk Airport is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Sandals
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
October
In October, Istanbul Atatürk Airport is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Istanbul Atatürk Airport, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
If you vacation in Istanbul Atatürk Airport during November, you are likely to find that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
December
December in Istanbul Atatürk Airport is pretty cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Istanbul Atatürk Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Turkey has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
What to do in Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Turkey
Istanbul Atatürk Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world with over 70 million passengers passing through each year. It is the primary international gateway to Turkey, connecting the city to destinations across the globe. While it may seem like just another airport, there are actually several interesting tourist attractions located within the airport terminal. Here’s a list of the top attractions at Istanbul Atatürk Airport:
1. Turkish Airlines Museum – Located within the airport terminal, the Turkish Airlines Museum showcases the history of Turkish aviation. The museum displays an extensive collection of aviation artifacts, including uniforms, flight gear, photographs, and flight simulators. Visitors can learn about the history of aviation in Turkey and how it has developed over the years.
2. Turkish Delight Shops – Turkish Delight is one of Turkey’s most famous exports, and several shops at Istanbul Atatürk Airport sell this sweet treat. The shops feature a wide variety of Turkish Delight flavors, such as rose, lemon, and pistachio. Visitors can sample the different flavors and purchase boxes to take home as souvenirs.
3. Duty-Free Shops – Istanbul Atatürk Airport boasts an impressive array of duty-free shops, selling everything from luxury watches and designer clothing to electronics and perfumes. The duty-free shops offer some of the best prices on these luxury items, making it a popular destination for travelers.
4. Turkish Cuisine – There are several restaurants and cafes within the airport that offer a taste of Turkish cuisine. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as pide (Turkish pizza), kebabs, and baklava. There are also some Western-style fast food chains for those who prefer familiar food.
5. Airport Gardens – Istanbul Atatürk Airport has several outdoor spaces that offer a break from the hustle and bustle of the terminal. The gardens are well-maintained and feature a variety of trees, flowers, and shrubs. There are also benches and seating areas for visitors to relax and take in the scenery.
In conclusion, Istanbul Atatürk Airport may seem like just another airport, but it offers interesting tourist attractions that are worth exploring. From the Turkish Airlines Museum to the duty-free shops and Turkish cuisine, there’s something for everyone. So, if you find yourself at Istanbul Atatürk Airport, take some time to explore these top tourist attractions.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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