Smolensk, Russia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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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
- 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 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
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteLip balm
The best option: this
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme cold weather gloves
Heavy sweaters
Fleece inner layer
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your 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.
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. 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
Fleece inner layer
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best choice: this
Heavy sweaters
Extreme cold weather gloves
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteCoveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Insulated ice boots
We use:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you 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
Gloves
Heavy jacket
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Sweaters
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Cold weather footwear
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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.
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. 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
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of 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.
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 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
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
The 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.Waterproof luggage cover
So your stuff remain dry. The most durable suitcases can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
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.
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 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
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. The best luggage can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
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.
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 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
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.Waterproof luggage cover
So your stuff stay dry. The best suitcases can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take 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 a good TSA-friendly option.
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 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.
Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. 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
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.Waterproof luggage cover
So your things stay dry. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
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
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.
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
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
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
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. 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
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
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 useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
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 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
Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisLip balm
Our pick is: here
Sweaters
Gloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Cold weather footwear
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
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.
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 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
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoritePajamas
Fleece inner layer
Extreme cold weather gloves
Heavy sweaters
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Lip balm
The best choice: this
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
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 take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
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.
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. 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.
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