Turkey travel checklist
Power, visa, eSIM, packing rules, and weather in one fast page.
Currency
TRY
Language
Turkish
Power
Plug types C, F, 230V / 50Hz.
Time zone
TRT (UTC+3)
Power banks
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Turkey travel checklist overview
What this page covers
The Turkey travel checklist highlights the key rules that affect most visitors: power standards, entry requirements, SIM options, carry-on rules, and weather expectations.
Who it helps
Use this checklist if you want a fast pre-flight scan before diving into the full tools. It is designed for first-time visitors and quick repeat trips.
Local context
Expect a mix of historic districts and modern cities, with strong domestic transport links.
Local essentials
What locals use
- Transit card: Istanbulkart
- Main airports: IST, SAW
- Emergency number: 112
- City climate notes: Istanbul is mild in spring and fall; the Aegean coast is hot in summer; Cappadocia has cool nights.
- Voltage differences: Voltage is consistent nationwide at 230V / 50Hz.
Local insight
Turkey blends historic sites with modern cities, so plan extra time for bazaars and neighborhood wandering. Istanbulkart is the easiest way to use metro, tram, and ferries in Istanbul. Summer is hot along the coast, while central regions cool quickly at night. Cash is useful in markets, and many museums close earlier than expected during winter.
Entry essentials
đ Visa & entry
- eVisa required for some passports
- Visa-free for others (check length)
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
đ Power & charging
- Type C/F plugs, 230V power
- Most devices support 100-240V input
- Bring a Type C adapter for hotels
đą eSIM & data
- 4G coverage is strong in cities
- Airport SIM kiosks are common
- Activate eSIM before arrival for instant data
đŗ Payments
- Cards accepted in hotels and restaurants
- Cash is common in bazaars
- ATM fees vary by bank
Getting around, safety, and best seasons
đ Transportation
- Domestic flights connect regions fast
- Intercity buses are widespread
- Ferries serve coastal routes
đĄī¸ Safety
- Emergency number is 112
- Use licensed taxis or rideshares
- Keep valuables secured in crowded areas
đ¤ī¸ Best seasons
- April to June is mild and pleasant
- September to October is cooler
- July and August are hot on the coast
Planning checklist
Turkey travel checklist tools to use
Power bank rules
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Open tool âVisa and entry snapshot
| Passport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | eVisa | Apply online before travel. |
| Japan | visa-free | Short stays allowed (check length). |
| United Kingdom | visa-free | Short stays allowed (check length). |
| Australia | eVisa | Apply online before travel. |
Best eSIM picks for Turkey
Airalo
5GB for 30 days âĸ $13 âĸ 4G/5G
Nomad
10GB for 30 days âĸ $18 âĸ 4G/LTE
Weather and packing advice
Best weather months around Istanbul:
- May: 22°C / 14°C, 40mm rain
- June: 27°C / 18°C, 35mm rain
- September: 26°C / 18°C, 45mm rain
FAQ
Turkey offers visa-free or eVisa entry for many passports. Always verify the current entry channel for your passport.
Turkey uses type C and F plugs with 230V / 50Hz power.
Yes, but they must be carried in the cabin and stay within airline watt-hour limits.
Other destinations
Last updated: 2025-12-08. Always confirm critical rules with official sources.