Smolensk, Russia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

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 in Smolensk can be bitter cold and extremely snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain regularly. It also snows most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

February

February in Smolensk can be bitter cold and very snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) to 20s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March for Smolensk is frosty, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently 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 works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

April

April in Smolensk is brisk and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for 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

May

In May, Smolensk is crisp and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Smolensk, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • 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.

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 find the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite 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

June

In June, Smolensk is mild and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Smolensk, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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. Take care to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you are traveling to Smolensk in July, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, 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 Smolensk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you visit Smolensk during August, you may see that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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.

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. Check that you choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • 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

September

September in this region is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

In October, Smolensk is brisk and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Smolensk, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November in this region is very cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time and snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices 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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

December

In December, Smolensk can be dangerously 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Île-de-France, France, South Cameroon Plateau, Cameroon, La Entrada, Honduras, False Bay, South Africa, Gould, Colorado, United States of America, Vernon, Connecticut, United States of America, Telford, England, United Kingdom, Humboldt County, California, United States of America, Ya'an, China, Sittingbourne, England, United Kingdom, and Rheinfelden, Switzerland.