Every seasoned traveler has their own strategies for packing for a trip. It seems that the more a person has traveled, the less they carry with them for the road. I remember when I made my first trip overseas. While I didn’t bring all of my possessions, I certainly carried much more than I needed! While this list is far from exhaustive, it will give you a few good packing tips before your arrival in Central Asia.

1. Pack light. I can’t emphasize this enough. In reality, there isn’t much you’ll need while you’re traveling. Leah, a woman who recently returned from Uzbekistan on a tour with Roxana Tour, told me that all she needed was in a carry-on bag. Essential toiletries (including anti-diarrhea medicine), sunglasses, hat, sunblock, prescription drugs, and a change of clothes are the barest minimum. Of course, many of you will want to travel with a camera and some other type of electronic device. Keep In mind that you can buy just about anything you’ll need in-country if you really need it.
2. Hotels can help. All hotels on your itinerary offer laundry services, including ironing and dry-cleaning. If you prefer, you can wash your own clothes in the tub. All you need to do is buy some laundry detergent at one of the many nearby kiosks in the city. For those of you who have hair (unlike me!), there are hair-dryers available.
3. Concerning your electrical devices. All electrical outlets in Central Asia are 220 volt, 50 HZ frequency. The sockets conform to the European-style (round) of plugs. I highly recommend that you bring two converters with you. Also, if you are carrying a lap top and/or a camera, bring an extra battery with you.
4. Footwear. Comfortable footwear is essential. Without it, your trip will be a miserable one. Lightweight running shoes work quite well, but you may have a different preference. Just make sure that they are comfortable and can handle the rigors of walking on uneven terrain or on a sidewalk. You may want to pack an inexpensive pair of sandals for the shower. Bring a few pairs of high-quality socks with you, too.
5. Documents, credit cards, and money. I recommend that you buy a handy pack that you can attach to your belt or fit in your pocket. Make sure it’s big enough to handle your plane tickets, credit cards, and other important documents. It’s always advisable to keep things in one place instead of distributed haphazardly. Thieves are endemic throughout the world, so use your common sense when you are on the town.
6. Swimwear. Yes, swimwear! Many of the hotels have a swimming pool. At the end of the day, why not go for a dip?
7.  Pack snacks. Energy bars are always a great way to tie you over between meals.

Posted by Greg Stephenson