Kandahar, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Kandahar, Afghanistan? If you're planning to go to Kandahar, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Kandahar
- Important essentials for Kandahar
- Activities for Kandahar
- Kandahar in January: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in February: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in March: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in April: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in May: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in June: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in July: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in August: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in September: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in October: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in November: weather and what to pack
- Kandahar in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Kandahar, Afghanistan
Based on the climate and weather in Kandahar, Afghanistan, the best time to go is April. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Kandahar, Afghanistan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kandahar, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Kandahar, Afghanistan by month
January
If you visit Kandahar during January, you may find that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you go to Kandahar in February, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs 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 countries.
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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Kandahar is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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, Afghanistan 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you vacation in Kandahar during April, you are likely to see 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 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Kandahar. 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, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
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 choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
Traveling to Kandahar in May, you will notice that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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 frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
June for Kandahar is a scorcher and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
- like this one
Thin tank or crop tops
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Insulated water bottle
- our recommendation
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you are traveling to Kandahar in July, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 100s F (low 40s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
- like this one
Waterproof sandals
Thin tank or crop tops
- our recommendation
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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 recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
If you are traveling to Kandahar in August, you will notice that it can be sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
- our recommendation
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Thin tank or crop tops
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Insulated water bottle
Waterproof sandals
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
- like this one
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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 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, Afghanistan 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September in Kandahar can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed for cooling and include UV protection.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered to help you stay cool:
Skirts
Sun protecting pants
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should bring additional, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Waterproof sandals
- this
Insulated water bottle
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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, Afghanistan 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
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
October in Kandahar is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
this
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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, Afghanistan 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. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in Kandahar is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Kandahar. 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Afghanistan 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. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in Kandahar is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
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.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Kandahar. 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, Afghanistan 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. Be careful to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you visit the Kandahar Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
What to do in Kandahar, Afghanistan
Kandahar, located in the southern part of Afghanistan, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite being known for years as a troubled city, it has emerged in recent years as a tourist destination with a host of top tourist attractions.
Here are some of the must-see sights in Kandahar:
1. Arghandab River: The Arghandab River originates from the mountains of Kandahar and flows through the city, providing a serene and picturesque setting for picnics and other outdoor activities. The river banks are dotted with lush green trees and plants, which make it an ideal place for nature lovers.
2. Kandahar Citadel: Also known as the Bab-i-Kandahar, the Kandahar Citadel is an ancient fortification that has been standing for over a thousand years. It was built by the Ghaznavid Empire and was later expanded by the Timurid Dynasty. The citadel is a remarkable feat of architecture and provides insight into the rich history of the region.
3. Shrine of Baba Wali: Baba Wali is one of the most revered Sufi saints of Afghanistan, and his shrine is a popular pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists. Situated in the heart of the city, the shrine attracts a large number of people who come to pay their respects and seek blessings.
4. The Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani: Ahmad Shah Durrani was the founder of the Durrani Empire, which ruled over parts of Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan. His mausoleum is located in the city's center and is a major attraction for history buffs.
5. The Spin Karez Underground Tunnels: The Spin Karez is an intricate system of underground tunnels that was built to supply water to the city. The tunnels are over 3,000 years old and are a marvel of engineering that still functions to this day.
6. The Friday Mosque: Located in the center of the city, the Friday Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Afghanistan. It was built in the 12th century and has since undergone several renovations. The mosque is renowned for its beautiful architecture, intricate tilework, and distinguished history.
7. The Red Mosque: Located to the south of the city, the Red Mosque is a strikingly beautiful mosque built in the 18th century. It is so called because of its bright red colour, which makes it stand out from its surroundings.
In conclusion, Kandahar is a city that is a testament to Afghanistan's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a place where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern amenities. A visit to Kandahar is an experience of a lifetime, and any tourist who wishes to explore this part of the world will find it an unforgettable journey.
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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Koblenz, Germany, Wild Coast, South Africa, Auckland Region, New Zealand, Qolora, South Africa, Igaliku, Greenland, El Escorial, Spain, Brownsville, Texas, United States of America, Nimule, South Sudan, Ramanagara, India, Raglan, New Zealand, and Alsfeld, Germany.