Istanbul guide
🇹🇷 Packing List
What to pack for Istanbul
In December, Istanbul is typically cool, heavy rain (5°C - 11°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Istanbul essentials
- Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
- Sarong or shawl for temple visits
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A warm jacket or fleece
- Layers for cool evenings
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Quick-dry footwear
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Warm insulated coat
- Thermal base layers
- Warm mid-layers (fleece or wool)
- Warm hat, gloves and scarf
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- One dressy evening outfit for celebrations
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Insect / mosquito repellent
- Good standards. Street food like simit, corn, chestnuts is safe. Look for busy places.
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type C/F plugs (European), 230V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
- Turkish Lira (TRY) cash. Cards accepted widely.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom. Buy at airports or shops. Tourist SIMs available.
- Pocket tissues: some island toilets are squat-style or limited
- "Friendly" locals inviting you to bars - overcharge on bill
- December highlights: Christmas (commercial celebrations); New Year's Eve
Trip gear
- Waterproof dry bag for electronics