Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan? If you're planning to go to Northwest Afghanistan, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Northwest Afghanistan
- Important essentials for Northwest Afghanistan
- Activities for Northwest Afghanistan
- Northwest Afghanistan in January: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in February: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in March: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in April: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in May: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in June: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in July: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in August: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in September: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in October: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in November: weather and what to pack
- Northwest Afghanistan in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan
Based on the climate and weather in Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Northwest Afghanistan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan by month
January
January in Northwest Afghanistan can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow 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
February
February here can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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 these days, an AirTag can 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 neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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
March
March for Northwest Afghanistan is crisp. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost sometimes. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
April
If you are traveling to Northwest Afghanistan in April, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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 stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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
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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
May
May in this region dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
Traveling to Northwest Afghanistan in June, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 80s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered for cooling:
Sunglasses
- this
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created for cooling and include UV protection.
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should bring additional, since these easily get wet or dirty.
Waterproof sandals
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable 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 excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just 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 sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
If you are traveling to Northwest Afghanistan in July, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget bring additional, as these get wet or dirty.
- this
Insulated water bottle
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to help you stay cool:
Waterproof sandals
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed for cooling and offer UV protection.
Skirts
Sunglasses
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 find the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect 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.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
August
August in this region very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to help you stay cool:
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to keep you cool and offer UV protection.
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important bring additional, as these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
- this
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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 stuff.
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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
September
If you go to Northwest Afghanistan in September, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
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.
Safety + Security
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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly 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 Northwest Afghanistan. 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
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
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 get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
October
If you are traveling to Northwest Afghanistan in October, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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 pillow
An excellent option is this one
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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
November
November here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Safety + Security
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 luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
December in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Northwest Afghanistan. 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
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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 and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
What to do in Northwest Afghanistan, Afghanistan
Northwest Afghanistan is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. This area has something for everyone, from ancient ruins and fortresses to stunning mountains and valleys. Tourists coming to the area will find a plethora of attractions that make it a must-visit destination. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Northwest Afghanistan.
1. Bala Hissar Fortress
Located in the heart of Mazar-i-Sharif, Bala Hissar Fortress is one of the most impressive historical sites in Afghanistan. The fortress was built in the early 19th century and served as the residence of Afghan kings. It was also used as a military base, and today visitors can explore the old walls and watchtowers.
2. Balkh
Balkh is an ancient city located near Mazar-i-Sharif and is considered one of the oldest cities in the world. It has a history that dates back to the 2nd century BC, and it was once a major stop on the Silk Road. The city has several historical sites, including the Blue Mosque, a 9th-century landmark, and the ruins of the ancient city wall.
3. Band-e Amir National Park
Band-e Amir National Park is a stunning natural site located in Bamyan province. The park is home to six lakes that are known for their blue waters and stunning views. The water in the lakes is pure and fresh, and visitors can swim in the lakes and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
4. Minaret of Jam
The Minaret of Jam is one of the tallest brick structures in the world, standing at 65 meters tall. It was built in the 12th century and served as a symbol of Islamic power in the area. The minaret is located in the remote valley of the Hari Rud River and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. Salang Pass
Salang Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Afghanistan, with a height of 3,878 meters. The pass is located in the Hindu Kush mountains and connects the provinces of Baghlan and Parwan. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and visitors can walk along the old Soviet tunnel that runs through the mountain range.
6. Wakhan Corridor
Wakhan Corridor is a remote and isolated region in the northeast of Afghanistan, extending to China and Tajikistan. The area is known for its stunning scenery, including the Paniri Wall, a massive wall of rock that stretches over 20 kilometers. Visitors can also trek to the high-altitude lakes of Khaibar Pass, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Herat Citadel
The Herat Citadel is an impressive historical monument located in the city of Herat. The citadel was built in the 14th century and served as a military base and place of worship. The monument is now a museum, displaying some of Afghanistan's ancient artifacts and treasures.
Northwest Afghanistan offers a unique and diverse experience for tourists interested in exploring ancient history, natural beauty, and culture. Despite its reputation as a conflict-ridden area, the region has been safe for tourism in recent years. Many tour operators offer tours to the area, making it more accessible and safe for visitors.
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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