What should I pack?

This is the question people get most wrong. For anything from late October to April you need genuine cold-weather kit, not a city coat: an insulated parka rated well below freezing, thermal base layers, insulated waterproof boots with grip, gloves, a hat that covers your ears, and a scarf or neck gaiter. Indoors is heated and warm, so pack normal clothes for daily life and treat the outer layer as equipment. Buying the heavy items in Astana is a reasonable plan. Local shops stock for the real climate, and you can try things on.

Apply now, first week free