Irkutsk, Russia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Irkutsk, Russia? If you're planning to go to Irkutsk, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Irkutsk, Russia

Based on the climate and weather in Irkutsk, Russia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Irkutsk, Russia

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Irkutsk, Russia by month

January

January can be dangerously cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C) during the day. It snows about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you are traveling to Irkutsk in February, you will notice that it can be bitter cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Russia 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Irkutsk is frosty and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • 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 airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is 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. Take care to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available 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 work 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you are traveling to Irkutsk in April, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain regularly and snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Russia 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Irkutsk is balmy and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Irkutsk is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Irkutsk, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August for Irkutsk is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, 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 things.

  • 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 Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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 choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Irkutsk is chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you go to Irkutsk in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold 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 sufficient for most locations.

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you go to Irkutsk in November, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold and very snowy. Expect it to snow about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice 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. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you are traveling to Irkutsk in December, you will notice that it can be bitter cold and very snowy. Expect it to snow most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Russia 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 airlines 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 Irkutsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is 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 find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to visit the majestic Irkutsk mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; you should check with the Irkutsk tourism authority.

Synagogues sometimes have similar dress requirements. At Synagogue you can wear conservative clothes, aside from the head coverings.

If you go to the City History Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Irkutsk, Russia

Irkutsk, a city in eastern Russia, is a popular tourist destination known for its historical architecture, scenic landscapes, and cultural landmarks. It is located in the Irkutsk Oblast region, which is home to numerous natural wonders such as Lake Baikal, the largest freshwater lake in the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Irkutsk.

1. Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore: This museum showcases the history and culture of the region, with exhibits featuring art, archaeology, and ethnography. It is located in a beautiful historic building that dates back to the 18th century.

2. Church of the Savior: Built in the 18th century, this stunning church is one of the most famous landmarks in Irkutsk. It boasts Baroque architecture and has a unique onion-shaped golden dome. It is also known for its impressive iconostasis, a wall of icons that separates the sanctuary from the nave.

3. Listvyanka Village: Located on the shores of Lake Baikal, Listvyanka is a charming little village with plenty of things to see and do. One of its top attractions is the Baikal Museum, which showcases the unique flora and fauna of the region. Visitors can also take boat trips on the lake or hike the nearby hills for breathtaking views.

4. Taltsy Museum: This open-air museum showcases the traditional architecture and way of life of the indigenous peoples of the region. Visitors can see old wooden houses, yurts, and other historic buildings, as well as learn about the crafts and traditions of the Siberian people.

5. Bogoyavlensky Cathedral: This Orthodox cathedral is a beautiful example of traditional Russian architecture. Built in the 19th century, it has a distinctive blue and white color scheme and is known for its intricate frescoes and ornate decorations.

6. Nizhnyaya Naberezhnaya: This scenic promenade along the Angara River is a popular place for locals and tourists alike. It offers stunning views of the river and the city and has plenty of cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

In conclusion, Irkutsk offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its fascinating museums to its stunning landmarks, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you are interested in Russian history, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the local culture, Irkutsk is sure to delight.

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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