Iraqi Desert, Iraq: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Iraqi Desert, Iraq? If you're planning to go to Iraqi Desert, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Iraqi Desert, Iraq

Based on the climate and weather in Iraqi Desert, Iraq, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Iraqi Desert, Iraq

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Iraqi Desert, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Iraqi Desert, Iraq by month

January

If you vacation in Iraqi Desert during January, you are likely to notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

February

If you are traveling to Iraqi Desert in February, you will notice that it is chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. It's important that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you are traveling to Iraqi Desert in March, you will notice that it is warm and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices 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 this region is really hot and very dry. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

If you visit Iraqi Desert during May, you may notice that it is scorchingly hot and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 10 and 20% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

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 pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

June

If you visit Iraqi Desert during June, you will probably see that it is unbearably hot and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 10 and 20% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

July

If you are traveling to Iraqi Desert in July, you will notice that it is scorchingly hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the high 100s F (low 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to choose the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

August

If you go to Iraqi Desert in August, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the high 100s F (low 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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 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.

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, D and G. Be sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now 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.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

If you visit Iraqi Desert during September, you may find that it can be sizzling and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 10 and 20% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you find the right type. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

October

If you go to Iraqi Desert in October, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Iraqi Desert. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

November

If you visit Iraqi Desert during November, you will probably find that it is warm and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is 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. Avoid surcharges with this

December

December here is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Iraq has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Iraqi Desert. 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.

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

What to do in Iraqi Desert, Iraq

Iraq's desert may not be the first place that springs to mind when thinking of tourist destinations, but those who venture into the barren landscape are rewarded with a unique experience that is unlike anything else in Iraq. From the towering sand dunes to the ancient ruins, there is a lot to discover in Iraq's desert. Here are a few of the top tourist attractions that are worth visiting:

1. Samarra Archaeological Site

Samarra, which is located on the banks of the Tigris River, was once a thriving city during the Abbasid Caliphate. Today, it is home to an array of fascinating archaeological sites, including the Great Mosque of Samarra and the famous Spiral Minaret. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city and learn about its rich history.

2. Al-Ukhaidir Fortress

Al-Ukhaidir Fortress is a 1,300-year-old desert castle that was built during the Abbasid Caliphate. The fortress is an impressive sight, with its towering walls, ancient cisterns, and intricate carvings. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress for a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding desert.

3. Al-Hatra

Located in the northwest of Iraq, Al-Hatra was once a major trading center during the Parthian Empire. Today, the site is home to a number of well-preserved ruins, including a temple and palace, as well as a number of tombs. Visitors can wander through the ancient site and marvel at the impressive architecture.

4. Babylon

Babylon, which is located just south of Baghdad, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iraq. The ancient city is steeped in history, and visitors can explore the ruins of the Hanging Gardens, the Ishtar Gate, and the Palace of Nebuchadnezzar. The site is also home to a museum that showcases some of the artifacts that have been unearthed at the site over the years.

5. The Mesopotamian Marshes

The Mesopotamian Marshes, which are located in the southern part of Iraq, are a haven for wildlife and a beautiful example of wetland ecosystems. Visitors can explore the marshes on boat rides, seeing the local flora and fauna, including different bird species.

In conclusion, Iraq's desert may not be the most popular tourist destination, but it is home to some of the most beautiful and unique sights in the country. From ancient ruins to natural wonders, there is a lot to explore in the Iraqi desert. Travelers should be cautious, however, since many areas are destabilized and dangerous, meaning that people should only travel with official guides or through established tour groups.

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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