FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - FAQ
What do I pack for my trip to Mongolia?
What to pack when coming to Mongolia will depend on the time of year and what tour you plan on taking. Please see the trip notes for specifics on what to bring for the particular tour being taken. In general the following is a good guide:
Winter (Nov – Feb)
The winter months are particularly cold, with average temperatures of -20oC and can reach -40oC. Therefore warm clothing is essential. Fur and leather coats along with fur boots are best. Thermals are essential. It is difficult to source the clothing needed for this time of year other then in Mongolia, so get the best you can in your own country, and bring lots of layers!! (it is not recommended that you try and tour around the countryside during the worst of winter.
Autumn (Aug - Oct)
The rule of thumb is to pack lightly and bring casual clothes. A sturdy, comfortable pair of walking shoes is a credit. A sports coat and a nice shirt for man, and one or two dresses or pantsuits for women will suit the most formal occasions to be encountered in Mongolia. Travelers should bring shirts, sweaters and jackets that can be worn in layers to suit a range of local climates. Shorts (for both men and women) are fine for summer days though not recommended when visiting religious shrines. It is reccommended to dress up for comfort, but not for style. Required basic checklist:
Electrical converter and adapter plugs. Mongolia’s electrical system operates at 220 volts.
Common toiletries, cold and digestive medications, lip balm, sanitary napkins and any over-the-counter medicines you generally use.
Chewing gum, mints or throat lozenges to keep your mouth moist.
Reading materials, including a guidebook on the places you will see.
Sunscreen lotion and sunglasses.
A light raincoat or an umbrella except in winter months.
Camera & film rolls. Be aware that while print film is available in most places, slide film may be difficult to find. Also be sure to pack extra set of batteries.
A notebook to keep track of all the exciting things happening on the trip.
Summer (May - July)
The weather is actually not bad except dry air during late spring months and extreme temperatures early winter. By the way, the temperature changes fast from day to night. Summer and autumn brings the mildest weather with sunny days and short rain showers and are considered the most pleasant time to travel. For the clothing, we suggest casual attire style and layered clothing. In day time you may need only a T-shirt or at most a jacket, but at night you may need a coat. Down coat is necessary if you travel to western Mongolia. Sun glasses, sun blocking cream, moisture scream are very necessary to be in your packing list.
? What about baggage limits on the domestic flight?
For Mongolian domestic flights you are allowed to have checked and hand luggage. The maximum free luggage limitation for checked baggage is 10 Kilograms total. You can also carry one piece of hand luggage plus a normal bag up to 5 kilograms, all of which should fit in the overhead compartment or under your seat.
? What is Mongolian currency?
Mongolian local currency is called Tugrig (T), one US dollar is equal to T1332 tugrig by January 16, 2009. We recommend that you bring your major credit card, traveler’s cheques and a small amount of cash. Most hotels and shops located in downtown accept major credit cards. You can change your traveler’s cheques into local money at the hotel exchange counter or any of the currency exchange centers found along the main street. Personal checks are not accepted. It is recommended that you carry Tugrigs for you day to day spending. Please note the exchange rate fluctuates and information provided here is for your reference only.
? Can I drink the tap water there?
Although many local people do drink the tap water, we recommend that you drink only bottled water or boiled water. Bottled water is available everywhere. You may use the tap water to do your washing. Tap water within Ulaan Baatar is generally only problematic due to the excess of heavy metals in the water.
? What is the tipping practice for visitors to Mongolia?
It is a common practice for visitors to tip the tour guide, cook and driver in recognition of their good service. A hotel bellboy expects your tips as well. It is not customary to leave tips at hotels or local restaurants as the bill usually includes a 10-15% service charge.
? Can I use visa or credit card when I'm in Mongolia?
In general, Yes. But the use of credit cards in Mongolia is limited to big stores, restaurants and hotels located in UB city only! You can withdraw cash in Tugregs from a few ATM machines - but please remember, neither services are available out of UB city!
