Planning a Trip to Mongolia?
If you’re preparing for an adventure to Mongolia, being well-equipped is essential. This Mongolia Travel Essentials guide covers what to pack, how to exchange money, weather tips, and tipping etiquette, helping you travel confidently.
Mongolia’s vast landscapes, extreme temperature shifts, and unique payment systems make preparation key. From the best packing list for Mongolia to understanding how to handle currency exchange, this guide ensures you’re ready for a stress-free experience.
What This Mongolia Travel Essentials Guide Covers
- Essential packing list for Mongolia
- Currency exchange and payment methods
- October weather in Mongolia & travel tips
- Tipping culture and estimated travel expenses
Mongolia Travel Essentials – What to Pack for Your Trip
1. Clothing & Cold-Weather Gear
Mongolia’s weather is highly unpredictable, with warm days and freezing nights, especially in October. Packing appropriately is crucial to stay comfortable.
- Day: Light jacket, sweater, or hoodie
- Night: Down jacket or fleece
- Thermal wear: Keeps you warm and can be left behind after the trip
- Gloves: Useful for camel or horse riding
- Scarf & hat: Essential for windy conditions
- Face mask: Helps with dry air and dust storms
Additional Packing Tips
- A windproof hat with a strap is useful in desert areas with strong winds.
- Bring clothes you don’t mind leaving behind to free up space for souvenirs.
2. Skincare & Moisturizing Essentials
Mongolia’s climate is extremely dry, making hydration a priority.
- Vaseline: Prevents nosebleeds caused by dryness
- Eye drops: Helps prevent dry eyes
- Hand cream & body lotion: Keeps skin from cracking
- Lip balm: Essential for preventing chapped lips
3. Footwear & Other Essentials
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots: Mongolia involves a lot of walking on rough terrain
- Slippers or Crocs: Useful inside ger camps
- Headlamp or flashlight: Handy in areas with limited lighting
- Power bank: Essential for long bus or car journeys
- Sunglasses: Protects against the intense sunlight reflection
- Sheet masks: Helps maintain skin hydration in the dry climate
Items You Don’t Need
- Shower filter: Mongolia’s water is mineral-rich, but short-term travelers don’t usually need one
- Tripod: A guide or travel companions can help take photos
Money Matters in Mongolia – Currency Exchange & Payment Guide
Mongolia’s official currency is the Tugrik (MNT). While both cash and card payments are widely accepted, some areas only accept cash.
1. Currency Exchange in Mongolia
- You can exchange USD for Tugrik at Ulaanbaatar Airport.
- No need to exchange your local currency for USD first. In my case, I was able to exchange Korean Won directly for Tugrik in Mongolia. Check in advance if your local currency can be exchanged directly.
- Airport exchange counters can have long queues, so prepare accordingly.
Quick Exchange Rate Calculation
To estimate prices in USD, divide the Tugrik amount by 3.5.
For example: 10,000 MNT ÷ 3,470.80 ≈ 2.88 USD
2. Using Credit Cards in Mongolia
- Major supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants in Ulaanbaatar accept cards.
- Small shops and ger camps require cash, so always carry some Tugrik.
- Prepaid travel cards like Wise, Revolut, or N26 are highly recommended for international travelers.
3. Managing Shared Travel Expenses
- Group tours often use a shared fund (pooled cash) for common expenses.
- Keeping personal and shared expenses separate makes budgeting easier.
October Weather in Mongolia & Travel Tips
Typical October Weather in Mongolia
Mongolia’s climate varies significantly by region, so it’s important to check the forecast for your specific destinations.
| Location | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulaanbaatar | 5–10°C | -5 to -10°C | Relatively mild compared to other regions |
| Gobi Desert | 10–15°C | Below -5°C | Warm during the day, but freezing at night |
| Terelj National Park | 3–8°C | -5 to -15°C | Unpredictable temperature swings |
Weather Preparation Tips
- Pack a warm scarf, gloves, and a hat to protect against the cold and wind.
- Even inside ger camps, nights can be cold, so a portable heated blanket is a great addition.
- Thermal socks and hand warmers will help keep you warm at night.
Tipping Culture & Travel Expenses in Mongolia
Tipping is not mandatory in Mongolia, but it is common practice to tip guides and drivers.
1. Understanding Mongolia’s Tipping Culture
- Guides & drivers: Group tours typically include tips in pooled travel funds.
- Independent travelers: Tipping is appreciated but not required.
- Restaurants: Tipping is not expected, but 5-10% is common for good service.
No Pressure to Tip
Mongolia does not have a strong tipping culture, so there is no obligation to tip.
2. Estimated Travel Expenses for Mongolia
| Expense | Estimated Cost (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| Flight (round trip) | ~$600–$900 |
| Accommodation (ger camps & hotels) | ~$300–$500 (6 nights) |
| Tour costs | ~$800–$1,000 |
| Food | ~$150–$250 |
| Entrance fees & miscellaneous | ~$100–$200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$2,000–$2,500 |
Biggest Expense: Tour Fees
- Private and guided tours make up the largest portion of your budget.
- Many tours require cash payments, so bring enough local currency.
Final Mongolia Travel Checklist
✔ Pack warm clothing and moisture-protecting essentials.
✔ Exchange Tugrik at the airport and use prepaid travel cards for convenience.
✔ Know that tipping is appreciated but not required.
✔ Prepare for freezing temperatures at night, even in ger camps.
Mongolia offers a completely different travel experience compared to city-based destinations.
With the right preparation, anyone can enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip.
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