How to Pack for a Trip to Moscow

You inevitably forget something when you're packing. If you are traveling in the United States, this is usually not a problem. If you happen to be vacationing in Moscow, however, there are some things you won't want to forget.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carry-on Bags
• Garment Bags
• Luggage Locks
• Luggage Sets
• Silk Scarf
• Travel Clothes
• Travel Adapters And Converters
• Water Filters
• Bottled Water
• Plastic Freezer Bags
• Film
• Backpacks
• Duffel Bags

1. Check out seasonal weather information before you begin packing. A site such as The Weather Channel is an excellent source.

2. Pack your most comfortable clothes and walking shoes in mostly neutral colors and versatile pieces that can coordinate with more than one thing in your suitcase.

3. Include a light jacket no matter when you're visiting. In the wintertime, it can be used for layering; in the summertime, it will come in handy for that nighttime cruise on the Moscow River.

4. Say, "Yes," to the jeans. You may read travel tips to the contrary, but many Muscovites wear jeans, and you won't stick out like the proverbial sore thumb.

5. Take your most essential cosmetics, health and beauty aids, medicines and vitamins. Don't forget the current converter for your personal appliances.

6. Pack a midsize canvas tote bag if you plan to do any shopping. Many vendors do not have their own bags, especially at flea markets and street-side kiosks.

7. Bring extra batteries and an ample amount of film. These items can be very expensive in Moscow.

8. Limit yourself to luggage that you can carry comfortably. This usually means no more than two pieces of checked luggage and one carry-on bag.

9. Take basic creature comforts, such as your favorite candy bars or snack items. The brands you like may not be readily available in Moscow.

10. Pack several bottles of bottled water and even consider a water filter that will screw onto the faucet where you will be staying. The water in Moscow often disagrees with international travelers.

11. Include Ziplock bags, Ziplock bags and more Ziplock bags. You will find 101 uses for these indispensable items.

Tips & Warnings

• Women should consider packing a long skirt or dress and a scarf that can be worn on the head. Women in Moscow enjoy a fairly liberated role today, but this type of dress is still expected in some places, including many cathedrals.
• Unless you have specific plans that require formal attire (attending a performance at the Bolshoi or participating in church services) take mostly casual clothes that exhibit little fashion risk.
• A flashlight can come in handy because many foyers in Moscow are poorly lit.
• Don't be scared by many of the travel tips you may read. Some even advise travelers to take along toilet paper - this is overkill at its worst.
• Take only one credit card with a reasonable limit on it. This way if you lose your wallet or purse you don't have to worry about someone using all your credit cards before you can cancel them.

on 11/22/2005 We have found little rolls of travel toilet paper, they come in their own dispenser that fits in a purse.

www.justtoiletpaper.com

on 11/22/2005 American dollars are the most widely accepted currency in Russia, although the Ruble is the only legal currency. When going to Russia in winter, take plenty of clothes with you and wear layers. I went in January and the warmest day was -1 centigrade.
Regarding trains - take third class or higher if on a day train, and second or first class, if overnighting. Consider a personal guard if traveling alone at night.

on 11/22/2005 It is difficult to get traveler's checks cashed in Moscow. Most places will not take them and you will have to find a bank that is open. Even then be prepared for a hassle. A better bet is to use a credit or debit card and get money from an ATM.

on 11/22/2005 Your maid will bring toilet paper every few days, and it is a small and rough roll of paper. Take it. Also, if you travel by train, the train will not have any toilet paper at all.

on 11/22/2005 I am from Moscow, and believe me, the dress code is very casual and European-like - especially in Moscow where the teenagers try to imitate all the U.S. trends. Just bring along whatever you have.