1. Visa Requirements
2. Currency and Payment
3. Money Safety
4. Souvenirs and Gifts
5. Personal Care Items
6. Clothing and Accessories
7. Light Travel Gear
Whether you’re heading to Russia for vacation or business, there are a few absolute essentials that you can’t forget to pack. Beyond the appropriate wardrobe, you should bring a power converter, your passport and visa, and more. Therefore, make your list and plan ahead of time so you don’t leave anything important behind.
Visa
You can’t travel to Russia without a Russian visa. Consequently, you should apply well in advance of your trip through an embassy. You will also need an invitation (issued by the hotel at which you plan to stay or through a travel agent), and you can use this invitation to apply for your visa. Ensure that your visa is valid during the dates of your trip, and carry it with you wherever you go in Russia, as police sometimes conduct random checks.
Rubles
Bring some cash with you as you will likely need it. Euros and USD can be exchanged almost anywhere in Russia. While there will be ATMs in the airport or wherever you arrive, it’s possible they will be out of order—so don’t take that risk. Additionally, it’s quite difficult to pay by credit card in Russia (and practically impossible to pay by debit card), which is why having cash is essential. Make sure the bills are in crisp, good condition since it’s common for people (and even banks) to reject damaged bills.
Money Safety
If you’re traveling to Moscow or St. Petersburg and planning to see popular tourist attractions, make sure you have a reliable way of securing your money. Therefore, either wear a money belt or use a small bag that sits close to your body with a secure closure—always keep an eye on it!
Souvenirs and Gifts
If you are going to be staying with a host family or interacting extensively with Russian people, it’s thoughtful to bring small souvenirs from your country (like mugs, t-shirts, or keychains). This small gesture will be greatly appreciated.
Toilet Paper
Russian toilets are notoriously dirty and unkempt, and you may often find no toilet paper inside. Therefore, carry some with you (or a small pack of tissues) just in case. It is also advisable to pack a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer.
Umbrella
Given that Russian weather can be quite unpredictable, even during the summer, it would be wise to bring an umbrella. This is especially true in St. Petersburg or northern Russia, where it is more likely to rain.
Toiletries
When packing your toiletry bag, ensure to include prescription drugs and contact lens solution. Although you can buy most household items in pharmacies and shops in Russia, these specific items may be surprisingly difficult to find.
Fancy Outfits
If you plan on going clubbing, you will need to bring nice clothes. Many clubs, especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg, have strict dress codes and may not let you in if you’re not up to their standards. As a result, avoid showing up in jeans and a T-shirt, which may be acceptable for a casual, local bar but not for an exclusive club.
Duffel Bags
Packing light is recommended no matter where you’re traveling. However, in Russia, it’s best to leave your oversized luggage and rolling suitcases at home. Instead, opt for a duffel bag that you can easily carry over your shoulder. Many Russian metro stations lack escalators, containing instead huge staircases that can be challenging to navigate with a bulky suitcase.
