What to pack for your visit to Iran

You have got your Iran visa and now you have to choose what to bring to Iran. Here you can have a closer look on things you shouldn’t pack in your luggage and needed stuff to be loaded for your visit to Iran. Some items can be found in apparent contradiction to religious and national values of the country and are not allowed.

In case you are looking for how to get your Iran visa, you can read about Iran Tourist visa or Visa on Arrival on our blog.

You do not need these:

• Alcoholic beverages

Bringing alcoholic beverages to Islamic countries is not allowed. It is also suggested not to get off the plane totally inebriated.

• Sensitive information

Any kind of data that is against the national affairs may come of trouble such as anything that might establish any connections to Israel.

• Drugs

If your drugs are not considered as over-the-counter (OTC), it sounds safer to bring their prescription. Fortunately, there are lots of prescription drugs that are considered OTC in Iran. It means you can buy a varying range of drugs such as antibiotics here.

• Credit cards

Due to previously imposed sanctions, international credit cards could be of little or no use in Iran. Great news is some Asian banks are getting into Iranian market which will be followed by other internationals.

• Health Insurance

Foreign insurances are not supported in Iran, so you are only left with the traveler’s insurance, obtainable in the airport, or domestic health insurances.

• Pets

Pets are not allowed in most places and on public transport. Rules are stricter for dogs. If you are going to stay in a hotel, do not bring your pet to avoid difficulties.

You may need these:

• Travel power converter

Iran as in European countries emit 220 V / 50 Hz of electricity through their outlets, so if your device does not support dual-voltage you need a power converter. Otherwise, you only need travel adapter. Iran supports Continental Europe Grounded Plug Adapter.

• VPN

It is important to note that Iran’s internet connections are filtered to ensure that no undesirable content can be accessed. So you need VPNs or anti filters to check social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and etc.

• International Driving Permit (IDP)

Iran recognizes IDP. Therefore, you want to rent a car in Iran, you need a valid driving license plus IDP, in case your license isn’t part of Iran’s contracting party. Driving licenses issued by a contracting party are recognized in the territory of another contracting party. For example, Germans do not need IDP to drive in Iran and only a stamp by touring and automobile club of Iran on the driving license is needed.