Pakistan is a conservative country, so dressing modestly is important, especially in public spaces and religious sites. Avoid short tops, revealing outfits, or anything too tight. Instead, opt for loose, breathable, and respectful clothing.
Best clothing choices
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Shalwar kameez (local attire) – Comfortable, inexpensive, and culturally appropriate. You can easily buy one at any market.
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Loose cotton or linen pants – Keeps you cool in the heat and provides modest coverage.
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Full-sleeved shirts or t-shirts – Protects against sunburn in the day and mosquito bites at night.
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Light wool layers – Great for temperature regulation; keeps you warm when it’s chilly and wicks away sweat in the heat.
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A sunhat & sunglasses – Essential for the hot sun.
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A versatile travel jacket – Look for one with multiple pockets (like SCOTTeVEST) for security and convenience.
Packing for Pakistan’s weather
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Hot months (April–October):
Pack light, breathable cotton clothes. Avoid synthetic fabrics—they can trap heat and cause skin irritation in the extreme summer temperatures. -
Cold months (November–February):
Winters in many parts of Pakistan can be quite chilly, so bring warm layers, a sweater, or a light jacket. -
Regional variations:
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Islamabad in May can be 43°C (very hot).
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Shandur Pass in the same month can drop to -5°C (freezing cold).
Always check the forecast for your destination and use layering to adjust to temperature changes.
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Footwear for Pakistan
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Comfortable, sturdy shoes – Roads and paths can be dusty or uneven.
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Hiking or walking sandals for casual wear.
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Good socks (like Thorlos) to keep feet dry and prevent blisters.
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Slip-on shoes are handy since you’ll often remove footwear before entering religious sites.
Clothing tips for women
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Clothes should cover shoulders, chest, and knees.
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Cotton shirts, loose pants, or ankle-length skirts work well.
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Carry a scarf or pashmina – useful for sun protection, modesty, and for covering your head when visiting mosques, mausoleums, or shrines.
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Always remove shoes before entering religious places.
Clothing tips for men
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Loose-fitting cotton shirts or t-shirts and long pants are ideal.
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Avoid shorts in public, especially outside major tourist spots.
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For evening outings or cooler regions, a light jacket is useful.
Essential travel accessories
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High SPF sunscreen and insect/mosquito repellent.
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Toilet paper and hand sanitizer – many public toilets are basic.
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Microfiber travel towel for basic accommodations.
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Small medical kit, torch, and sewing kit.
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Reusable filtered water bottle (like LifeStraw) since tap water isn’t safe for drinking.
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Soft travel backpack or duffel bag – easier than hard suitcases for domestic travel.
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Packing cubes to save space.
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Portable solar charger for remote areas.
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Universal travel adapter and step-down voltage converter (Pakistan uses 230V).
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Luggage scale to avoid extra baggage fees.
Shopping & souvenirs
Leave some extra space in your luggage for souvenirs! Popular buys include:
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Leather goods
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Embroidered linens and shawls
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Handcrafted tablecloths and bedspreads
Quick travel hacks
✅ Download a reliable weather app like Weather+ for up-to-date forecasts.
✅ Carry an umbrella – useful for both sun and sudden rain.
✅ A foldable daypack is perfect for daily excursions.
✅ For sensitive stomachs, rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash after showers to minimize the risk of waterborne illness.