Thursday, July 26, 2012

Pack For Russian Winters

Rapid temperature changes during Russian winters require a variety of clothing.


Winters have become a national "symbol" for Russia, and with good reason. Temperatures in Russia fluctuate during the winter season just as anywhere else, but rapid temperature changes and abrupt snowfalls make winter in Russia unique. When packing for a trip to Russia during the winter months, you should spend the most time planning for the rapid changes in temperature. The easiest way to pack for Russian winters is to pack multiple layers of clothing you can wear at the same time. This way, you can add and remove layers as necessary.


Instructions


1. Pack all your winter clothing into two large suitcases if flying to Russia. Aeroflot airlines permit two checked bags, one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a briefcase or purse. Checked bags for the cargo compartment of the aircraft must be 62.2 linear inches and 50 pounds or less for an economy flight, or 79.9 linear inches and 70 pounds or less for a business flight. Linear inches are calculated by adding the height, width and length of the cargo piece. Carry-on luggage cannot exceed 22 pounds.


2. Place all your hygiene and small items in your carry-on luggage to keep your checked baggage as far below the maximum weight limits as possible.


3. Pack sensitive electronic devices, such as laptop computers and other electronics with liquid crystal display (LCD) screens so they are insulated well. Bring your laptop computer as the carry-on item, in addition to the personal item allowed next to you in the cabin (purse or briefcase). Place other small electronic items, such as digital cameras or portable music players, inside pouches or compartments within your carry-on luggage to prevent theft, damage or loss.


4. Dress appropriately once arriving at your destination in Russia. Wear heavy wool socks inside your lined and insulated boots. Since your footwear is the one winter clothing article for which you cannot easily add and remove layers, it would be wise to change into dry socks halfway through the day. Dress in multiple layers, working with the assumption and expectation of sudden cold weather, then remove layers of clothing as necessary if the day is warmer than expected.







Tags: remove layers, carry-on luggage, during winter, inches pounds, inches pounds less