Essentials to pack for Jordan

Planning a trip to Jordan? This incredible country offers a diverse landscape, from the Dead Sea's salty shores to the majestic Wadi Rum desert and the vibrant Red Sea coast.

To make the most out of your adventure, packing the right gear is crucial.
This guide covers essential items to ensure a comfortable and memorable journey through Jordan.

Footwear:

Jordan's terrain varies significantly, so appropriate footwear is key!

1. Sturdy Hiking/Trekking Shoes:
Essential for exploring Petra, Jerash, and other historical sites. Comfortable, light, anti-slip shoes without mesh (to minimize dust intake) are a must.
Avoid sandals or trainers for extended walking as they can make your feet sore.

2. Wet Shoes/Water Shoes:
Absolutely necessary for navigating the rocky shores of the Dead Sea and enjoying water activities in the Red Sea and canyons like Wadi Mujib.
These protect your feet from sharp rocks and provide excellent grip.
Additionally the seabed in Red Sea is covered with sea urchins we call them spikes. So make sure your wet shoes has really good solid soles !

Clothes:

Avoid weather surprises on your Jordan vacation.
Jordan has very hot summers and surprisingly cold, rainy winters. We even get snow!

Winter (December-February): Embrace the Chill

1. Warm Jacket:
Essential for staying warm, temperatures in Wadi Rum can drop below Zero degrees Celsius.
A good quality jacket is a must-pack for travelers in Jordan.

2. Waterproof Jacket:
If you plan on hiking or trekking during Jordan's winter, a waterproof jacket is crucial.
Be prepared for occasional rain.

3. Warm Layers:
Pack sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and thermal underwear to layer up and stay warm even in the coldest parts of Jordan.

Autumn (September-November): Layer Up for Comfort

1. Light long-Sleeved Shirts:
Perfect for comfortable daytime wear.

2. Light Jacket and Sweater:
Essential for cooler evenings and nights during your Jordan trip.

Spring (March-May): Enjoy Pleasant Temperatures

Sweater or Light Jacket:
Enough for the cooler evenings and nights.
This is an ideal time for budget travel to Jordan, with the pleasant weather.

Summer (June-August): Beat the Heat Like a Local

1. Head Cover (Hat or Scarf):
Protect your head and face from the sun's harsh rays.

2. Thin, Long-Sleeved Clothing (Viscose or Rayon):
While linen is breathable, it is thin and you will get a sunburn through it, tighter weaves like viscose or rayon offer better sun protection during your summer vacation in Jordan.

Desert Essentials:
Wadi Rum and Beyond

1. Headlight or Torch:
Absolutely vital for navigating Wadi Rum at night, especially if you're camping or exploring after dark.

2. Buff/Face Covering:
Protects your face and neck from sand and wind, especially during jeep tours.

3. Comfortable, Light Clothing:
Jordan is dusty, so choose light, breathable fabrics.
Long sleeves are recommended, especially for jeep tours in Wadi Rum to protect yourself from flying sand particles.

4. light and anti slippery shoes without mesh:
To prevent slipping and falling while walking on rocks especially tight paths on the cliffs in Petra and desert rock bridges.

Staying Hydrated and Energized:

Staying hydrated and fueled is crucial, especially in Jordan's Remote places where there is no Shops and restaurants.

1. Plenty of Drinking Water:
Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible.
Dehydration can quickly become a problem, especially during hikes and desert excursions.

2. Electrolytes:
These help replenish lost minerals and prevent dehydration, particularly during hot weather.

3. Protein Bars/Hard Snacks:
Pack non-perishable snacks for quick energy boosts during your adventures.
Avoid chocolate and bananas during the summer months as it will melt or rotten.

In Mujib canyon there is small fish that consume dead skin of your body. You might not like the feeling so long swimming trousers is the best options.

Optionally, if you want to feel more comfortable around locals in public beaches, consider wearing a burkini.
Its what women wear in public beaches here.

Other Important Items:

1. Cash (Jordanian Dinars):
While credit cards are accepted in some places, cash is essential for smaller shops, local markets, transportation, and remote places.
Including cash payments in Wadi Rum desert camps.
(An ATM is available at the gate of wadi rum visitors center)

2. Jordanian sim card:
Save money on roaming charges and stay connected with a Jordanian SIM card.
Get a data and call bundle at the Amman Airport arrivals hall.
We recommend 10GB for a one-week trip (around 12 JOD).
Zain, Orange, and Umniah are the only providers.

3. google maps:
Internet access isn't always reliable in Dead sea area, Download offline maps on Google Maps to navigate with confidence and avoid getting lost during your time in Dead sea area

4. Rucksack/Backpack:
A rucksack is much more practical than a handbag for navigating Jordan's varied terrain.
(Comfortable backpack padded straps are recommend)

5. Dry Bag:
Exploring the stunning Canyons in Jordan? A dry bag is a must-have to protect your valuables from the canyon's waters.
Keep your phone, wallet, and keys safe and dry during this unforgettable Jordan adventure.

6. Snorkeling Equipment:
If you plan to explore the Red Sea's coral reefs, bring your own snorkeling gear for convenience and hygiene.

7. High SPF Sunblock:
Crucial for protecting your skin from the intense Jordanian sun.
Don't let sunburn ruin your Jordan vacation!
(We use it in almost every season as we get a lot of sunny days even during winter)

8. First Aid Kit:
A small first aid kit can be a lifesaver on your Jordan trip.
We witnessed firsthand how essential it is when we helped a fellow traveler with a leg injury at the Dead Sea.
Pack a kit and travel with peace of mind!

Emergency Contacts:

While we hope you have a smooth and enjoyable trip, it's always wise to be prepared for any eventuality. Here are the key emergency numbers you should have readily available during your Jordan travels:

1. General Emergency/Police:
911
(This is the unified emergency number and can be used for various emergencies)

2. Police:
191
(For criminal incidents or situations requiring police assistance)

3. Ambulance:
193
(For immediate medical assistance)

4. Fire Department:
199
(In case of a fire)

5. Tourist Police:
+962 79 550 5755
(For tourist-specific concerns or emergencies.
They can assist with issues like lost passports, scams, or other problems faced by tourists.)


Important Tips for Using Emergency Numbers in Jordan:

Save these numbers in your phone:
Make sure to save these numbers in your phone's contacts for quick access.

Know your location:
If possible, try to provide your exact location when calling for help. This will help emergency responders reach you faster.

Stay calm and speak clearly:
When making an emergency call, try to remain calm and speak clearly to explain the situation.

Tourist Police Assistance:
The Tourist Police are specifically trained to assist tourists. Don't hesitate to contact them if you encounter any problems during your trip.

Inform someone of your itinerary:
Before going on hikes or remote excursions, inform someone (your Hotel for example) of your plans and expected return time.

Carry a physical copy of emergency numbers:
In case your phone's battery dies or you lose your phone, it's a good idea to have a physical copy of these emergency numbers written down.

Check with your accommodation:
Your hotel or accommodation can also provide assistance in case of emergencies and may have their own emergency procedures.

Download Now:
Your Free Jordan Emergency Contacts Guide.
For your safety and peace of mind, download this free PDF with all the essential emergency numbers for Jordan. Keep a digital copy on your phone and your partner's, and print a physical copy to carry with you during your travels in Jordan.

(Get our FREE useful PDF file at the end of this post)

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