When planning what to wear in Pakistan, bear in mind the nation is very traditional. So, short tops, short skirts/shorts, tight or body-revealing clothes etc. should be avoided.
A good option is the local dress; a shalwar kameez. This is a long tunic top with loose fitting pants, which can be bought cheaply at any market.
Take loose long pants and some full-sleeved shirts and t-shirts for comfortable traveling.
Full-sleeved clothes are ideal protection against sun burn during the day and mosquito bites at night.
light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
A sunhat is a must for the summer and a travel umbrella is great for the rain and sun.
Make sure you take a good sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) with you, and quality sunglasses.
Ensure you bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
Pack for the weather
April, May, June, July, August, September and October are the hottest months. Pack light cotton clothes, and avoid synthetics as you may develop some skin allergy or heat burns.
Winters (November, December, January and February) are quite cold, so pack some warmer layers.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂
Regions of Pakistan
The weather can vary wildly depending on where you are visiting. For example, May in Islamabad can be a heady 43C whilst in the Shandur Pass it can be -5C. Check the forecast for your destination and time of travel. Clever layering is always key to dealing with temperature changes.
Shoes to pack for Pakistan
Be sure to have good sturdy shoes with you since your feet will get dusty and dirty while traveling (try Hotter shoes, they are incredibly comfortable and look great too).
And we like Thorlos hiking socks – they have options designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable in all climates.
Clothing tips for women
For women clothes should cover both shoulders and knees.
A cotton shirt or t-shirt, with cotton pants or an ankle length skirt are good and cover your shoulders with a sarong.
While visiting places of worship (temples, gurudwara or mausoleum), women must wear long skirts or pants and have covered shoulders. Also, don't forget to remove your footwear before entering any religious place.
It is advisable to carry a light pashmina or scarf with you to cover your head in case it gets too hot. Some religious places also require you to cover your head, so it may come handy then too.
Clothing tips for men
For men loose cotton shirts or t-shirts and long linen pants work well. Long – to avoid being bitten at night.
For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.
Pakistan travel essentials
As well as knowing what to wear in Pakistan, it is a good idea to also consider the vital travel accessories you will need.
Away from the main hotels toilet facilities will be basic and more likely a hole in the ground; take your own toilet paper and anti-bacterial handwash.
In basic accommodation you will also need your own microfiber travel towel and toiletries. A little medical kit, sewing repair kit, and a good torch are recommended too.
Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle. And another tip for trying to avoid an upset stomach is to have a mouth full of antiseptic mouthwash when you shower.
A bag or soft-sided rucksack is a more practical option than hard cases when traveling around the country, and using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Leather goods and embroidered table linen, bedspreads and shawls are all good buys.
Combine your bag with a fold away day sack that will carry your essentials on day trips.
Consider taking a solar powered charger as a back-up for your battery.
