The single most important item, regardless of season: broken-in, comfortable walking shoes. Petra alone involves significant walking on uneven, sometimes slippery stone. Beyond that, what you pack depends heavily on when you're traveling.
Year-Round Essentials
- Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes (not brand new)
- Modest clothing for religious sites and conservative towns — shoulders and knees covered
- A swimsuit for the Dead Sea and Aqaba
- Sun protection — sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (Jordan's sun is intense even in mild weather)
- A reusable water bottle — staying hydrated matters especially at Petra and Wadi Rum
- A light daypack for site visits
Spring & Autumn (March–May, September–November)
Layers — warm days, cool evenings. A light jacket for Wadi Rum nights, which drop noticeably after sunset even when days are warm.
Summer (June–August)
Lightweight, breathable clothing; a wide-brim hat; and more sun protection than you think you need. See our guide to visiting Jordan in summer for how our itineraries adjust activity timing around the heat.
Winter (December–February)
A proper warm layer — Petra and Wadi Rum nights can approach freezing, and Machaerus's exposed hilltop is cold and windy. A rain layer is worth packing too, since winter is Jordan's wet season, with occasional light snow in the highlands.
If You're Trekking or Canyoning
On our Rift Valley Traverse itinerary, personal gear (climbing harness, canyoning shoes) is available for local rental rather than something you need to bring — check with us before over-packing specialty gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to dress conservatively everywhere in Jordan?
Not everywhere — Dead Sea and Aqaba resorts are relaxed about swimwear. Modest dress matters most at religious sites and in more conservative towns.
Is bottled water necessary, or is tap water safe?
Bottled or filtered water is recommended for drinking throughout your trip.