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

What to take to Bangladesh: brief

Pack and check

• Documents: a passport valid for at least another 6 months, a visa or e-visa if required for your nationality, and a printed copy of important travel documents.
• Money: Bengali taka (BDT). You can withdraw cash in Dhaka and other major cities, but cash remains an important means of payment.
• Clothing: light, covering clothing made of cotton or linen. Due to the heat, humidity, and culture, long, loose garments are often more comfortable than short clothing.
• Personal care: sunscreen, lip balm, hand gel, and wet wipes. The combination of heat, dust, and crowds means you will use them more often than you think.
• Shoes: comfortable walking shoes and sturdy sandals that can withstand mud, dust, and rain.
• Medicines and travel first-aid kit: ORS, anti-diarrhea medication, plasters, painkillers, and personal medication.
• Mosquito protection: DEET or Picaridin. Outdoors and practicalities: reusable water bottle with filter, umbrella, or lightweight raincoat.
• Technology and equipment: world adapter types C, D, G, and K may be encountered; a universal travel adapter is therefore handy.

To consider

• A lightweight scarf for protection against sun, dust, air conditioning, and for religious sites.
• Waterproof pouches for electronics during the monsoon season.
• Earplugs for nighttime calls to prayer and honking traffic.
• A spare pair of glasses if you need them; replacement is not always easy.
• Some extra space in your bag for tea, spices, or handmade textiles.

What knowledge comes in handy when traveling to Bangladesh?

• Knowledge of the monsoon season and its consequences is useful. Between approximately June and October, heavy rainfall and flooding can affect daily life.
• Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Crowds are part of the experience, especially in Dhaka. A little patience can be just as useful as a travel guide.
• Knowledge of Bengali. Bengalis are proud of their language and culture. The country emerged partly from a language movement, which is why the Bengali language holds a special place in the national identity.
• Knowing how to be a good guest. Bangladesh is known for its hospitality. It is common for curious locals to strike up a conversation or invite you for a cup of tea.

Are there mosquitoes in Bangladesh?

• Yes, there are many mosquitoes, and dengue is one of the main health risks for travelers. Malaria also occurs in certain border areas, especially around the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
• More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sandflies in Bangladesh?

• Yes, and they can transmit leishmaniasis, although most travelers run little risk of this.
• More about sandflies and sand fleas.

Can you buy DEET in Bangladesh, or other mosquito repellents?

• Yes, especially in cities and larger supermarkets. The selection is varied, ranging from chemical to natural products.
• It can be nice to bring your favorite repellent from home so you know for sure you have a good one.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Bangladesh, or bring it to Bangladesh?

• Cannabis is illegal in Bangladesh, and the penalties for use, possession, and importation are no joke.