Smolensk, Russia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Smolensk, Russia? If you're planning to go to Smolensk, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Smolensk
- Important essentials for Smolensk
- Activities for Smolensk
- Smolensk in January: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in February: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in March: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in April: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in May: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in June: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in July: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in August: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in September: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in October: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in November: weather and what to pack
- Smolensk in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Smolensk, Russia
Based on the climate and weather in Smolensk, Russia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Smolensk, Russia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Smolensk, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Smolensk, Russia by month
January
January here can be dangerously cold and extremely snowy. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Lip balm
The best choice: here
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteTravel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We love:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Pajamas
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Russia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics 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. Save money 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
February
February for Smolensk is biting cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month and snows most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Sweaters
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteCoveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Pajamas
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
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 first aid kit
This one is a good value.
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.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Russia 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 neck pillow
A great 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
March
In March, Smolensk is frigid, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Smolensk, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisHeavy socks
Such as:
Heavy jacket
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this one
Sweaters
Gloves
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Russia 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
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 choose the necessary type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
April
April is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time and snows sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
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 disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Russia 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 neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
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 and F. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May in Smolensk is crisp and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your stuff stay dry. The finest luggage can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Russia has travel 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. Take care to find the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
If you vacation in Smolensk during June, you may find that it is mild and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your things don't get wet. Even the most durable luggage can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Smolensk. 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.
Given current world events, Russia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require 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 countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
July here is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your things remain dry. The best suitcases can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 Smolensk. 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 always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Russia 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. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
If you are traveling to Smolensk in August, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your belongings remain dry. Even the finest suitcases can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
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 useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Russia 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
September
September in Smolensk can be chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Russia has travel 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 pick the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
October
If you are traveling to Smolensk in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, 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.
Given current world events, Russia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
November
November in Smolensk is frosty, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Lip balm
Our pick: this
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisHeavy jacket
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Russia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient 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
December
In December, Smolensk is unbearably cold, extremely snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Smolensk, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best choice: this one
Extreme cold weather gloves
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteSweaters
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Pajamas
Fleece for under jacket
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Russia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
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. Avoid surcharges with this
What to do in Smolensk, Russia
Smolensk, a city located in western Russia, is a captivating tourist destination enriched with centuries worth of history and culture. The city, originally founded in the early 9th century, has managed to withstand several wars, invasions, and political upheavals, making it an interesting destination for history buffs. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you must visit when in Smolensk.
Smolensk Fortress
Smolensk Fortress is one of the landmarks that signify the city’s significance in Russia’s history. Built in the 16th century, the fortress played a crucial role in defending the city from invading forces. It comprises a well-preserved series of defensive walls, towers, and gates that have survived numerous wars, making it a must-visit for history connoisseurs.
Assumption Cathedral
Assumption Cathedral is a beautiful, historic Orthodox church built-in 1676. The cathedral has impressive frescoes and icons that have been preserved since its construction. The interior of the cathedral is a marvel, with ornate carvings, beautiful chandeliers, and majestic altars.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is a hidden gem located in the center of Smolensk. The museum has a vast collection of Russian art, with both contemporary and historic pieces on display. The collection includes works by notable Russian artists such as Ivan Kramskoi, Valentin Serov, and Ilya Repin.
Blonye Garden
Located on the banks of the Dnepr River, Blonye Garden is a picturesque park. The garden comprises walkways, water bodies, fountains, and excellent views of the surrounding riverbank. It’s a peaceful haven inside the bustling city, where visitors can take a stroll, have a picnic or just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Suvorov Museum
The Suvorov Museum is an exhibition commemorating the life of General Alexander Suvorov, a legendary military commander in Russia’s history. The museum has numerous artifacts and memorabilia associated with Suvorov, including his military regalia, swords, and personal effects. Those interested in military history will find this museum particularly captivating.
Smolensk State Philharmonic
The State Philharmonic of Smolensk is an excellent place for lovers of classical music. The philharmonic has a repertoire of performances by some of Russia’s finest classical musicians. It’s an excellent place to enjoy the class atmosphere of a classical concert.
Conclusion
Although not as popular as Russia's larger Cities like Moscow or St. Petersburg, Smolensk provides a fascinating mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty. This city has plenty of attractions to keep tourists busy during their stay. From historic fortresses to world-class museums and beautiful gardens, Smolensk is a city worth visiting during your travels to Russia.

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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