Saransk, Russia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Saransk, Russia? If you're planning to go to Saransk, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Saransk
- Important essentials for Saransk
- Activities for Saransk
- Saransk in January: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in February: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in March: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in April: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in May: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in June: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in July: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in August: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in September: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in October: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in November: weather and what to pack
- Saransk in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Saransk, Russia
Based on the climate and weather in Saransk, Russia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Saransk, Russia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Saransk, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Saransk, Russia by month
January
January in this region is beyond freezing. Temperatures average in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Goggles for eye protection
our pickFleece for under jacket
Coveralls
We love:
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Neck warmer/ski mask
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Night cap
It's suggested to wear a cap at night in this weather like this
Insulated boots
The best value
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestExtreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisThick pajamas
Heated gloves
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
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 important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage 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 Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
February
February in Saransk can be dangerously cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Neck warmer/cold weather mask
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisNight cap
It's a good idea to wear a cap at night in this climate like this
Insulated boots
The best value
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestFleece for under jacket
Goggles for eye protection
our pickCoveralls
We pick:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Thick pajamas
Heated gloves
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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 Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things 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.
Russia has some specific safety 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
March
March for Saransk is unbearably cold. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Heavy sweaters
Lip balm
The best pick: here
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Pajamas
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteThermal undergarments
We suggest:
Fleece inner layer
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
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 Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers 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 locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
April
If you visit Saransk during April, you may see 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 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
May
May in Saransk is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
June
June in Saransk is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
July
July is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Saransk. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Russia has some specific safety 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 neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
August
August in Saransk is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Light skirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports 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 Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A good option 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
September
Traveling to Saransk in September, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Russia has some specific safety 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. It's important that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
October
Traveling to Saransk in October, you will notice that it is cold. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Saransk. 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
November
If you are traveling to Saransk in November, you will notice that it is frosty. Daytime temperatures are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeavy socks
Such as:
Heavy jacket
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: here
Cold weather footwear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 Saransk. 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 things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
December
If you are traveling to Saransk in December, you will notice that it is biting cold. Daytime temperatures are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Fleece inner layer
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteVery heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Heavy sweaters
Pajamas
Lip balm
The best is: here
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
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 Saransk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
If you want to see the lovely Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
If you see the Museum of Mordovia Folk Culture, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
What to do in Saransk, Russia
Saransk, the capital of the Republic of Mordovia in Russia, is a city that has a lot to offer tourists interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. With a population of around 300,000, Saransk is a city that blends old-world charm with modern amenities, and visitors can experience a unique blend of Russian and Mordvinian cultures. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Saransk that are definitely worth a visit.
1. Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov
The Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov is one of Saransk's most important landmarks. Built in the early 2000s, it is the largest Orthodox church in the city and the main place of worship for the local Orthodox community. The cathedral's distinctive blue and gold domes are visible from afar and make for an impressive sight.
2. Mordovian Erzia Museum of Fine Arts
The Erzia Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to the life and work of the Mordvin sculptor Stepan Erzia, who is considered one of the most remarkable artists in the Republic of Mordovia. The museum houses a collection of Erzia's sculptures, drawings, and personal items, as well as artworks by other Mordvinian artists. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Mordvins, one of the indigenous peoples of Russia.
3. Mordovian State Nature Reserve
Located on the outskirts of Saransk, the Mordovian State Nature Reserve is a protected area that covers over 13,000 hectares of pristine forests, meadows, rivers, and wetlands. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the European bison, elk, lynx, and black stork. Visitors can take guided tours, go hiking, cycling, or fishing, and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
4. Saransk City Museum
The Saransk City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Saransk and the surrounding region. The museum's exhibits showcase the city's past, from its early days as a fortress town to its role as a cultural and educational center in the Soviet era. Visitors can see artifacts, photographs, and documents that illustrate the city's social, economic, and political development.
5. National Sports Museum of the Republic of Mordovia
The National Sports Museum of the Republic of Mordovia is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. The museum showcases the achievements and contributions of Mordvinian athletes in various sports, including football, basketball, boxing, and gymnastics. Visitors can see trophies, medals, uniforms, and other memorabilia, as well as learn about the history and evolution of sports in Russia.
6. Alesha Popovich Dvorishche
Alesha Popovich Dvorishche is a recreation center that offers a unique medieval-themed experience for visitors. The center is modeled after an ancient Russian village and features wooden houses, market stalls, and craft workshops. Visitors can dress up in medieval costumes, try traditional foods and drinks, and participate in activities such as archery, falconry, and horseback riding.
Saransk has much to offer the discerning tourist, from its rich cultural heritage to its unspoiled natural landscapes. Whether you want to explore the city's history, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply enjoy the outdoors, Saransk has something for everyone.

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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