Uzbekistan is turquoise domes, tiled madrasas, Silk Road bazaars and a lot of very good bread. It’s also a lot of walking on stone streets, in sun with very little shade.
So this is a pack-modest-and-comfy trip. Breathable layers that cover, shoes you can walk in all day and a scarf that does about ten jobs.
We built this list for our Uzbekistan trip, but it works for any spring or fall trip to Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan weather: what to expect
Uzbekistan has a dry climate with big swings between day and night.
Spring (March to May) is mild and sunny, usually in the 50s to 70s °F (10 to 25 °C), with cool evenings and the odd rain shower. March can still feel chilly, especially at night.
Fall (September to October) is warm to hot during the day, often in the 80s °F (high 20s to 30s °C) in September, and cools off nicely at night.
Translation: breathable clothes for the day, a warm layer for the evening and serious sun protection either way.
What to wear
For everyday exploring
Old towns, bazaars, madrasas and long walks. Loose, breathable and covered.
- Loose, lightweight pants or travel trousers
- Midi or maxi skirts and dresses with sleeves
- Tops that cover your shoulders
- A light long-sleeve layer for sun
- A big scarf or shawl
- A hat and sunglasses
For mosques, mausoleums and holy sites
Cover your shoulders and knees, and bring your scarf to cover your hair in active mosques. Many sites are museums now, but you’ll still feel more comfortable dressed modestly.
For the mountain homestay and travel days
Our night in the Nuratau Mountains is simple and cozy, and it gets cooler up there. Bring a warm layer, comfortable clothes for the drive and something easy to sleep in.
- A fleece or warm sweater
- Comfy pants or leggings for drives and train days
- Warm socks for cool nights
For evenings
Relaxed. One or two outfits you feel good in for dinners in Samarkand and Bukhara, plus a light jacket or wrap.
Shoes: bring two or three pairs
- Everyday: cushioned walking shoes or trail runners. You will walk a lot on stone and uneven ground.
- Easy on, easy off: slip-ons or sandals for days with lots of sites where you take shoes off.
- Evening: a comfortable pair of flats or clean sneakers, if you want something nicer for dinner.
No hiking boots needed. Just make sure everything is broken in.
Health and toiletries
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer and eye drops (the air is dry and dusty)
- Pain relievers, electrolytes, band-aids, blister care and stomach meds
- Hand sanitizer, wet wipes and a little toilet paper
- Your preferred period products
- Prescription meds in their original packaging, plus extra days
Travel insurance is required for this trip.
Electronics, documents and money
- Universal adapter (Uzbekistan uses European Type C and F plugs, 220V)
- A power bank for long sightseeing days
- Extra storage for photos (you will take hundreds)
- Downloaded maps and offline translation
Bring your passport with at least six months of validity and check entry requirements for your nationality before you go.
Cards are accepted more and more in hotels and bigger restaurants, but bazaars and small shops are cash only. Bring a debit card for ATMs in the cities, a backup card stored separately and some clean US dollars to exchange. Small bills are handy for markets, tips and bathrooms.
What to leave at home
- Shorts and tank tops (you will feel out of place)
- Hiking boots
- Too many outfits (you will rotate the same 4 or 5)
- A hair dryer or high-voltage styling tools
- Heavy jeans (hot and slow to dry)
FAQ: packing for Uzbekistan
Do I need hiking boots?
No. You’ll walk a lot but not hike. Cushioned walking shoes or trail runners are perfect.
How modest do I need to dress?
Shoulders and knees covered is the standard, and a scarf over your hair in active mosques. In Tashkent you’ll see more relaxed styles, but covered clothes help you blend in everywhere.
Can I wear leggings?
Yes, with a longer top or tunic that covers your hips. They’re great for drives and train days.
Do I need rain gear?
Usually not much. A light rain jacket or compact umbrella is enough, mostly in spring.
What luggage should I bring?
A rolling suitcase or a soft duffel both work. We take a train and a domestic flight, so keep it to one manageable bag plus a daypack.
Is laundry available?
Yes, at most hotels. Plan it for places where you stay two nights.
The bottom line
Pack loose layers that cover, bring a big scarf and wear your comfiest shoes. The Silk Road will do the rest.
Want to go? See our Uzbekistan trip, or browse all our upcoming trips.
