Packing list for Kuwait, travel insurance for Kuwait and taking your belongings

What to take to Kuwait: brief

To pack and check:

• Documents and money: a passport that is valid for at least six months upon arrival. Many travelers can apply for an eVisa online in advance or obtain a visa upon arrival, but always check the current rules for your nationality. The local currency is the Kuwaiti dinar (KWD). You can withdraw cash and pay with a debit or credit card almost everywhere.
• Clothing: light, airy clothing is pleasant due to the extreme heat. Keep in mind that Kuwait is a conservative Islamic country. Covering clothing is important for both men and women outside resorts. A warm cardigan or sweater is nice for the extreme air conditioning in some places.
• Shoes: comfortable shoes are sufficient for cities and sightseeing. When you are going into the desert, bring closed shoes that keep out the hot sand and scorpions.
• Packing and protection: a light daypack, sun hat or cap, and a scarf to protect against sun, dust, and sand.
• Insects and animals: mosquito repellent is usually only necessary during the warmer summer months, in green parks, and along the coast.
• Medicines and travel first-aid kit: a basic first-aid kit with plasters, ORS, painkillers, and personal medication.
• Outdoors and practicalities: a reusable water bottle, sunglasses, and possibly a cooling towel.
• Technology and equipment: a universal adapter for Type G sockets.
• Personal care and hygiene: sunscreen with a high protection factor and lip balm with sun protection are not an unnecessary luxury.

To consider:

• Sun gloves or arm sleeves for long car journeys.
• A light scarf for sandstorms.
• Swimwear for hotel pools or beach resorts (stricter dress codes often apply outside these locations).
• Some knowledge of local customs and etiquette to avoid awkward situations.

Are there mosquitoes in Kuwait?

• Yes, but far fewer than in tropical countries. Mosquitoes are most common during the warmer months, near irrigation areas, parks, and along the coast.
• Tropical mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria or dengue do not pose a concern for tourists in Kuwait. Applying a basic insect repellent during an evening walk near green areas is sufficient.
• More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sandflies in Kuwait?

• Sandflies are found in parts of Kuwait, especially in rural and desert-like areas. They are most active around sunset and at night on windless days.
• Sandflies in some parts of the Middle East can transmit leishmaniasis. Fortunately, the risk in Kuwait is virtually zero due to active control programs. However, the bites do form small bumps that can itch intensely for days.
• Good body coverage and an insect repellent containing DEET or picaridine reduce the chance of bites.
• More about sandflies and sand fleas.

Can you buy DEET, or other insect repellents, in Kuwait?

• DEET and other insect repellents are easy to obtain at state-of-the-art pharmacies, larger supermarkets, and drugstores. The selection is extensive, featuring international products containing both DEET and Picaridin.
• Read more about DEET and other insect repellents.

Can you buy a beer or wine in Kuwait, or bring it into Kuwait?

• No. Kuwait has one of the strictest alcohol laws in the world. Producing, selling, possessing, using, and importing alcohol is prohibited.
• Therefore, do not bring alcohol in your luggage. Products containing alcohol, such as certain liqueurs or homemade drinks, can also cause significant problems at customs.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Kuwait, or bring it into Kuwait?

• Just like with alcohol, Kuwait enforces a strict drug policy. Possession, use, trade, and import of cannabis carry heavy penalties.
• Checks are strictly conducted at airports, and there is no policy of tolerance or mild warnings in the country. There is a risk of life imprisonment or even the death penalty for drug smuggling.
• Also carefully check whether any medicines you bring with you contain substances that fall under drug legislation in Kuwait; for some medicines, a doctor's certificate or prior authorization is required.