What to Pack for the Gobi and Mongolia Road Trips

Mongolia rewards travellers who pack thoughtfully. Days in the Gobi can be hot and dusty, while nights drop sharply, and a road trip often means many hours between towns with limited shops. The goal is simple: stay warm, stay dry, stay charged, and carry only what you will genuinely use.

Layered clothing for hot days and cold nights

The single most important rule is to dress in layers. Even in summer, the temperature swing between midday and night can be dramatic, especially in the desert and at higher elevations near the Altai or Khövsgöl.

• A breathable base layer (merino or synthetic) that dries quickly.
• A mid layer such as a fleece or light down jacket for the evenings.
• A windproof, lightly insulated outer shell — wind is constant on the steppe.
• Long trousers and a couple of long-sleeve shirts that protect against sun and dust.
• A warm hat and gloves, even in July, for cold mornings.

Footwear

Bring sturdy, closed walking shoes or light hiking boots with good grip for sand, gravel and the rocky trails of places like Yoliin Am. A second pair of comfortable sandals or camp shoes is welcome for relaxing at the ger camp. Wool socks help in both heat and cold.

Sun and dust protection

The high, dry air means strong sun exposure. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat or cap, and good sunglasses. A lightweight scarf or buff is invaluable for keeping dust out of your face on long drives and at the Khongor dunes. Lip balm and a small bottle of eye drops are easy to forget but very useful.

Power and charging

Outside Ulaanbaatar, electricity can be intermittent. Ger camps often run on generators or solar for only part of the day.

• A power bank with enough capacity to recharge your phone several times.
• A car charger and a multi-USB adapter — your driver's vehicle is often your best charging point.
• Mongolia uses the European-style two-pin plug, so bring a suitable adapter.
• Spare memory cards and batteries for cameras; the landscapes will keep you shooting.

Water, snacks and toiletries

Carry your own reusable water bottle and drink more than you think you need — the dry climate dehydrates you quickly. On a long Gobi leg you may be several hours from the next stop, so a small stock of snacks is sensible. For toiletries, pack a quick-dry towel, wet wipes and hand sanitiser, since washing facilities are simple in remote camps. A basic personal first-aid kit with any regular medication, plasters, painkillers and rehydration salts rounds things out.

Small gifts for hosts

Mongolian hospitality is genuine and warm, and visitors are often welcomed into family gers. A small gift is a thoughtful gesture rather than an obligation. Sweets or chocolate for children, tea, or a simple souvenir from your home country are always appreciated. Offer and receive items with your right hand, or both hands, as a sign of respect.

Documents and essentials

Keep your passport, travel insurance details and any permits together in a waterproof pouch. Carry some cash in Mongolian tögrög, as cards are rarely accepted outside the capital and ATMs are scarce on the road. Photos or printed copies of your itinerary and key contacts are useful where mobile signal fades.

A final word

Pack into one soft duffel rather than a rigid suitcase — it is far easier to load into a vehicle and store in a ger. Travel light, dress in layers, protect yourself from sun and dust, and keep your devices charged, and you will be ready for whatever the Gobi and the open road bring.