What to pack

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• Be sure to pack lightly.  Most people find that they packed too much for their trip and regret having to lug it all around.
• Bring good clothes, according to the season.  In winter you will definitely need a warm jacket and shoes.   You can buy one of the famous "ushankas", or fur caps with ear-flaps when you get to Russia. You will feel like you fit in more if you wear dark colors, as that is the style, especially in Moscow.  Many women remark on how well dressed Russian women are, and wish they had brought a more stylish outfit. 
• Voltage converter. Electricity throughout Russia is 220 volt/50 Hz. The plug is the two-pin thin European standard. Be sure to bring your own voltage converter and adapter, as most places in Russia do not provide them.
• Woolite and bungee cord clothesline, so you can wash clothes in your hotel room.
• Flat stopper, if you want to stop the drain in the sink or bathtub to wash clothes. 
• Antibiotics for yourself in case you get sick.  Ask your doctor to write you a prescription
• If you are traveling on an overnight train, or going to a smaller Russian town, you want to bring your own sheets and towel.  You will also want soap and some toilet paper.   
• If you are traveling in winter, bring good face and hand cream or gel to protect against cold weather.
• Small gifts for your hosts.  This could include chocolate, liquor, cosmetics, toys for children or postcards of your home town.
• Parents who have been to Russia to adopt children have tips about extra things you will want to pack if you are adopting:
• A journal and camera to record your trip so your children can read about it in the future.
• Scabies cream so you can treat your child immediately if he/she has it.
• Shoes and clothes for your child.  Bring clothes appropriate for the weather in Russia , as well as back home.
• Zip lock bags to hold things from sippy cups to soiled clothes.
• A Snugli carrier if you are adopting an infant.
• Freeze-dried food and snacks.