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

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

Contents

When to go to Mosul, Iraq

Based on the climate and weather in Mosul, Iraq, the best time to go is October. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mosul, Iraq

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Mosul, Iraq by month

January

If you visit Mosul during January, you might notice that it can be brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally around 60 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in this region is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, 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 pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters available 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.

  • 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 see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Mosul is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite 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 see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April for Mosul is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s 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.

  • 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 always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. 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 works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May here is constantly hot and very dry. Temperatures average in the low 90s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, 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.

  • 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 Mosul. 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is 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 see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Mosul in June, you will notice that it is sizzling and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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 bit of 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 anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you visit Mosul during July, you may find that it is a scorcher and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile 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, D and G. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

Traveling to Mosul in August, you will notice that it is a scorcher and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Mosul during September, you are likely to find that it is sizzling and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, 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 Mosul. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require 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.

  • 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Mosul is pretty consistently hot and very dry. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mosul. 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 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. 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 great choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Mosul is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

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 Mosul. 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 things nowadays, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Mosul can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

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 Mosul. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and G. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are intending to see the stunning Great Mosque of al-Nuri, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Mosul tourism authority.

If you visit the Mosul Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Mosul, Iraq

Mosul, the second-largest city in Iraq, is an amazing destination that every traveler should add to their bucket list. Mosul is a city of history, culture, and tradition, boasting a rich heritage for its visitors to explore. Despite the unfortunate political instability and violence, the city remains to be a significant tourist attraction with its array of historical and religious landmarks. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mosul, Iraq:

1. The Great Mosque of al-Nuri

The Great Mosque of al-Nuri is the most famous and historic mosque in Mosul, and it is located in the heart of the old city. The mosque is famous for its “leaning” minaret, called the al-Hadba, which is 45 meters tall and leans over five meters. The mosque's original structure dates back to the 12th century and is an excellent example of Islamic architecture.

2. Mosul Museum

Mosul Museum is one of the most significant and historical museums in the Middle East. It contains many ancient artifacts and sculptures dating back to the Assyrian and Babylonian eras. The artifacts include pottery, cuneiform tablets, statues, and coins, as well as an impressive collection of Islamic art.

3. Al-Maidan Square

Al-Maidan Square is located in the heart of downtown Mosul, and it is a significant landmark in the city. The square is surrounded by some of the city's most iconic buildings, such as the Mosul City Hall, the Governor's Palace, and the Central Post Office. Al-Maidan Square is a popular gathering spot, particularly during festivals and celebrations.

4. Nineveh Ruins

Nineveh was the capital city of the Assyrian empire, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Nineveh ruins comprise some of the most significant and well-preserved ancient ruins in the world, including palaces, temples, and defensive walls. The site is currently being excavated and restored by archaeologists from all over the world.

5. Chaldean Catholic Archdiocese of Mosul

The Chaldean Catholic Archdiocese of Mosul is one of the oldest churches in Iraq, dating back to the 12th century. The church is famous for its stunning, intricate architecture and its peaceful ambiance. Visitors can attend Mass and listen to the choir sing Byzantine hymns.

6. Quraysh Street Market

The Quraysh Street Market is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Mosul. Visitors can find all kinds of goods and souvenirs, from traditional clothing and pottery to spices, fruits, and vegetables. The market is an excellent place to experience authentic local culture.

In conclusion, Mosul is a city of remarkable history, culture, and tradition, which makes it a top tourist destination in Iraq. Despite the recent political instability and violence, the city remains a favorite spot for tourists due to its rich heritage and incredible landmarks. Therefore, when planning your next vacation, consider visiting Mosul, Iraq.

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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