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Home » Asia » India » Packing List

22 Items You NEED in your India Packing List (2024)

Ask a seasoned backpacker: “Where’s the toughest place you’ve ever traveled?”

They’ll likely answer: “India.”

Ask that same backpacker: “Where the most amazing place you’ve ever traveled?”

Maybe it’s the struggles of navigating through a developing country and deciphering its unique social norms – combined with its ancient history, inimitable sights and immense spiritual richness that make India so alluring. And you hear it calling your name.

The first challenge of backpacking India, is packing for India. The climate does vary and you absolutely need to make sure you are prepared foe whatever India throws at you.

After reading this India survival guide, you’ll feel all of those things and be ready to take on the most eye-opening, mind-expanding, sensory-stimulating, life-changing experience ever.

So, without further ado, let’s begin!

The Ultimate India Packing List

What to pack for india: personal gear, the basic stuff to pack for india, final thoughts on what to pack for india.

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Capacity > 30L
• Price > $299

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

• Capacity > 37L
• Price > $400

GoPro Hero 11

• Resolution > 5k

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

• Price > $600

Insurance From World Nomads

• Price > Click For a Quote

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For the most part, traveling in India is hot except for in the mountains when it can be cool on summer nights and frozen all the winter. Before packing your bag, it is worth working out where you will be going, and at what time of the year you’re visiting.

Before you even take on the task of figuring out what to pack for India, you’ll need an amazing backpack to pack it all into. For all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag .

You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack. 

Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. 

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Note that traveling “Carry-On only” is going to limit the amount of souvenirs you can bring back!

GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities.

But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black . If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few. These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money. Get them on your India packing list now!

HolaFly eSim

The good news about much of India now has 3g to 5g Internet coverage offering ready access to taxi apps and food delivery apps. The bad news is that your native SIM card will most probably not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can simply install a eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the relevant package, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport. eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

Deciding what to wear in India does take some thought, and definitely depends on when you’re visiting . It is generally way too hot and humid for western clothes and jeans and even cotton t-shirts are not ideal. On the other hand, you need to bear in mind “decency” standard as exposing flesh will attract unwanted attention – this is especially true for women.

The good news is that clothes are available to buy VERY cheaply in India so you can definitely pick up some local wares once you arrive.

OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops

Open shoe’s are very common in India and even business people will wear them. This makes perfect sense as the endless heat can make for seriously sweaty feet. These are ideal as they are easy to remove once your enter a cafe or temple (removing shoes is common in many places).

Your feet will be tired and sweaty from those long days wearing shoes so do yourself a favor: pack sandals and give your feet some well-deserved cushion and fresh air. These Olukai flip flops are ultra-comfortable, well-made, and come in a variety of colors. 

Check out the  women’s OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops .

Arcteryx Beta AR

Did you know that the surface of the earth is over 70% covered in water? And you know how that water got there? Yep because it tends to here rain here on planet earth quite a lot! In India, the monsoons are very wet and a jacket may be advisable. Also, if you intend on visiting the mountains you will find it gets pretty nippy at night. Whilst you can easily and cheaply pick up clothes in India, good quality outdoor is hard to come by as a lot of the stuff on sale is cheap.

This is our pick of the many rain jackets we have tried. It’s reliable & stylish and looks good worn out in the mountains or in city bars. However, if you are going to the far mountains of Ladakh or taking a Kashmir tour , then go for the warmer Zeta version instead.

Osprey Daylite Plus

If you intend on doing any hiking, temple tours or even hitting the beaches of Goa then you will need a daypack. They are great for carrying water, hat’s and gloves and for packing sandwiches for lunch. We love Osprey products and this daypack is our personal pick.

The Osprey Daylite Plus has a mesh-covered panel to keep your back cool and fresh by minimizing contact with the back of the pack itself and allowing air to get between you and the pack.

Travel First Aid Kit

You don’t need to tote around half a pharmacy, but a well-stocked first aid kit should be in all our backpacks. Stuff happens on the road and it’s inconvenient and embarrassing when you can’t manage small situations like a cut finger or hangover migraine.

Tip: Add a few bits and pieces to the first aid kit after you purchase it, like extra headache medicine, any personal meds you need (like allergy pills), whatever you take to calm your stomach and a few more plasters.

Travel Insurance From World Nomads

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your India packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

Money Belt – By Pacsafe

Whilst India is not particularly dangerous, crime can still happen and tourists are sometimes targeted.

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong.

Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz. 

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy small plastic water bottles. Whilst the tap water in India is deadly, you can buy big (re-fillable) 5 litre water bottles and then fill up your hydro flask each day before you go out.

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal water bottle to get not just for your India trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth. 

If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another waterbottle again. 

Headlamp – Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Headlamps are great for traveling for many reasons. Firstly, they are useful as hell if you go camping or on an early sunrise mountain hike. Then, they come in useful for finding your way to your hostel bed at 3am without having to turn the lights on. They are also a Godsend if there is a power cut (pretty common in India) and great for navigating darkened alleyways in Turkey & Spain.

Not all headlamps were created equal and this is one of the best. The Petzl Actik Core comes with a USB rechargeable battery (full recharge in 3 hours or less); however, it is compatible with AAA batteries. Water-resistance is another critical feature. This product can withstand splashing; but keep in mind, water-resistant does NOT mean waterproof.

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a trip to India:

• A few pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
• 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
• A few pairs of socks
• (Sexy) underwear x 2/3
• Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
• Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
• Phone charger
• Amazon Kindle  for long train journeys
• Copy of your passport just in case
• Cash (not too much, there are ATM can be found in most cities and tourist hubs)
• Packable Towel

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Well, friends – there you have it! Your India survival guide for with our top 22-needs packing list, appropriate clothing to wear in India, special tips for gals and guys and what NOT to pack for India.

We hope you feel prepared – and most importantly – excited! Pack the essentials for a comfortable journey, and leave your worries behind. Anything additional that you discover you need, you can buy along the way. Focus on this exciting feeling – a great adventure awaits you in the ever-changing, complex, beautiful world that is India.

We know that we’re excited for you and wish you bountiful, safe travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Suzanne Borders

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I am a fan of yoga, and where else besides India you can practice yoga and feel such calming, this is the most beautiful place for yoga, so the main thing I need in India is my yoga mat.

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Huge India Packing List (Everything in One Checklist)

• 03 February, 2022

Priscila Moscoso

• 35999 Views

This page may contain compensated links. For more information read our disclaimer .

This post helps both men and women choose what items to include in their India packing list. Comes with an awesome free printable so you won’t forget a thing!

CONTENTS OF PACKING LIST FOR INDIA

❶ Safety in India ❷ India Packing Essentials ❸ Clothing (Women) ❹ Clothing (Men)

❺ Shoes for India ❻ India Weather ❼ Got Any Questions?

There are very few things anyone can say to truly prepare you for India . The only thing I can tell you is to be ready for an adventure of a lifetime .

Putting some thought and attention to detail into your packing will make sure you are able to enjoy all that India has to offer. Read on and take notes of our India travel checklist below.

We also have HUGE packing list for general round the world travel which includes literally every item you could think of. Be sure to have a read of the post so you know you’re prepared and have thought of everything before you set off on your trip to incredible India!

What to Know Before You Go to India

Whilst putting together your packing checklist for India, make sure you have the vital things such as travel insurance, have a valid visa, and have looked at communication options (SIM cards are difficult to get in India).

Have the contact information for the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country, and always carry a copy of your passport and entry stamp. Remember to leave your actual passport securely in your hotel.

Also, everyone you talk to about India will tell you to protect yourself against malaria. However, malaria tablets have some undesirable side effects, so it will be up to you to look into taking those before going to India.

I recommend you check the CDC website to see if you need other vaccines before travelling.

Are you here for the FREE checklist? Download it here . 😄

Safety in India

Whilst ticking off your ‘packing for India travel list’ you should also do some extra reading and research on being street smart.

Don’t let scam artists take advantage of you as an unsuspecting and unprepared tourist. Know where you are going, address, and hotel name, when getting into a taxi or rickshaw. Don’t give money to beggars, and say a firm “no, thank you” to street vendors.

I recommend you only eat freshly cooked hot food, avoid fresh vegetables or fruits, especially if you don’t know how they’ve been washed. Avoid street food if it looks questionable or if you only have a short time in India (so as not to ruin your short trip).

Finally, if you are a solo woman, take a read of my experience of Varanasi for Holi for some tips on how to stay safe! Now read on and enjoy my travel to India checklist below!

India Packing List Essentials

Wondering how to pack for India? This is our ultimate India packing checklist to ensure you won’t forget a thing!

✔ Passport

Your passport! Obviously the first thing on our India backpacking list. With AT LEAST 6 months validity from the time you plan to return to your home country.

✔ Drivers License

If you intend to hire motorbikes, rickshaws or cars.

✔  Travel Printouts

Of flight itineraries, scans of your passport, etc. In India, you will need to prove your exit. Or you could use a cool app called TripIt to store all your itineraries and bookings.

✔  Indian Visa

Another absolute essential on our India travel packing list! Citizens of almost all countries need to secure a visa BEFORE coming to India. Use this website to find out the requirements for your Indian visa.

✔ Lifestraw Water Bottle

In India, drinking bottled water is a must (double-check the seal on the bottle you buy is unaltered). But if you find yourself in a situation where there are no water bottles available, I suggest you take this rather than just the straw as it is more convenient. Be careful of ice! You won’t know if it was made with sanitised water. This is a must on the packing list for India!

✔ Anti-Theft Backpack

A secure backpack makes our India travel list. Travelling through airports, trains, and big crowds, you need a backpack that will keep all your valuables safe. We recommend this backpack. For more info, check out this post:  the best anti-theft backpack for travel .

Choose the ones that you feel most comfortable with. Noise levels in India are really high because of festivals, music, and honking. Carry the ones you wouldn’t mind sleeping with every night.

✔ Hand Sanitiser

Pack one that contains at least 60% alcohol. You will be exposed to a lot of germs in India, so a travel size one is a must in the bag you will take everywhere. I also suggest that you carry one that smells nice. The smells all around can be overwhelming, so putting a bit on your hands or a cloth handkerchief and covering your nose and mouth will help you avoid those smells.

✔ Wet Wipes

Sometimes hand sanitiser is not enough. You want to wipe your hands and maybe a couple of surfaces around you. Especially during monsoon season, when the rain may cause a lot of mud splatter, make sure you carry some with you.

✔ SPF 15+ Lip Balm

It protects against every extreme weather type AND the harsh Indian sun. It’s also great for smoothening dry skin on the hands, elbows, knees and face.

✔ SHEWEE

You might find yourself alarmed at all the seriously public toilets found around India. Men literally wee against walls with just a small wall separating them from you seeing their bits. The public toilets are ALWAYS disgusting and you will probably never want to sit close to any of them. That’s where this product comes in handy.

It’s a female urination device that enables the ladies to FINALLY pee standing up. Although we have not used them ourselves, we have heard people swear by them.

✔ Cloth Handkerchief

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth as you are being exposed to new germs and bacteria all around you. If you need to touch your face, and wipe off sweat due to the heat and humidity, carry some clean cloth handkerchiefs that you can wash easily by hand.

✔ BUFF Scarf

They can replace the handkerchiefs mentioned before, but they’d also be multifunctional as scarves, headbands, sleep masks, etc.

✔ Toilet Paper

Most Indian toilets won’t have toilet paper. Make sure you take some or a pack of tissues every time you go in. Nicer hotels will have it, but if you are going to a budget hotel, keep in mind that it is not usual.

✔ Waterproof Phone Case

Dust, water, and humidity are normal in most of India. Covering your phone, in this case, would ensure you don’t run the risk of it being damaged by the elements.

✔ Power Adapter, Voltage Converter, and Surge protector

The voltage in India is 220 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. Make sure you check on your devices to see what they can withstand depending on where you come from. Also, if you are going to be using laptops or charging camera batteries, I recommend a surge protector since power in India is not always at constant current.

✔ Passport Pouch or Money Belt

More than which pouch is the best, it is the one that you can carry comfortably in a place pickpockets can’t get to it. Look into one that you can take under your shirt and not in your pocket.

✔ Basic First Aid Kit

Always important to carry around, even more so if you are going trekking and are going to be outside cities. Most Indian pharmacies will have everything you need, but the comfort of carrying what you are used to in case of an emergency will be helpful.

✔ Probiotics

Food in India is likely going to be very different from what you are used to, so this will help you be prepared. However, if you do get Delhi Belly, make sure you keep yourself hydrated with electrolytes and fresh coconut water and seek medical attention.

✔ Rehydration Packets

You can pick these up in most pharmacies around the world, but when you need them most you may not feel like popping out to the shops to get them. Bring a decent supply of rehydration sachets wherever you’re going to keep on top of your health and fitness. But there’s no substitute for drinking plenty of water, so remember to drink at least two litres of water each day. The sachets give your body the minerals it needs to absorb the water.

✔ Insect Repellent

Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching if you get bit. You can get some  Mosquito Repellent Bracelets, but they usually don’t have DEET. This is essential in the most humid weather and regions of India.

✔ Sunscreen

Chose something that fits your skin type and the weather you’ll be in, especially if it is going to be very humid. I recommend nothing under 30 SPF and biodegradable.

✔ Tampons or Moon Cup

While sanitary towels are generally available in most places worldwide, tampons are much rarer and can be eye-wateringly expensive. You will not believe how difficult it is to find tampons in many countries! (Yep… India is one of those countries). It’s utterly crazy. So you can either bring a huge backup of tampons…

OR you can bring one tiny little  Moon Cup . These are reusable orb cups you put up your hoo-ha to catch your unfertilised baby bag. They are a little weird/uncomfortable to use at first but after a couple of go’s, you won’t even notice them! And if you’re wondering how to clean them, it’s easy. Just boil them at the end of the period cycle or wash them with soapy water.

✔ Sleeping Bag Liner

A sleeping bag liner or travel sheet will be essential if you are staying in budget hotels. Do some research into one that can be easily washed and dries fast. Avoid cotton and look for a microfiber blend. This one from Friendly Swede has a lifetime warranty and you can try it out and return it if it doesn’t suit your needs.

✔ Travel Pocket Knife

You’ll really never know when this item will come in handy. You may need it for cutting up some supermarket food or tightening up a loose screw on your camera. At the very least, carry it around in your daypack for a bit of protection on the streets (fingers crossed you’ll never need it).

✔ Cable Locks

An essential for the India checklist! Bring some good-quality steel cable locks to secure your luggage if you are travelling in trains and have overnight trips.

✔ VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN can save your ass in so many ways. If you ever use a public access WiFi while travelling (like an airport, restaurant, Airbnb or hotel) then you’re potentially putting your online security at risk by hackers.

It also helps out in other ways too. Can’t access your Gmail because it thinks you’re in a less-secure country? (Which you ARE, but still). Just connect to your home country using the VPN. PayPal payment won’t go through because you aren’t in your home country? VPN.

With a quality VPN such as  Nord VPN , you instantly protect your sensitive data on all different devices with just one click. Also, Nord is really affordable, super easy to turn on and we use it daily.

Also, don’t forget to pack these essential things for travel:

✔ Microfibre Towel

✔ Head Torch  (Water Resistant)

✔ Chapstick

✔ Other Personal Items

✔ Malaria Protection

✔ Small Locks  (TSA Approved)

✔ Power Adaptor

✔ Earphones

✔ Portable Charger Pack

✔ GoPro  + Attachments

✔ DSLR Camera  + Lenses and Attachments

Clothing to Pack for India

India is a conservative society, so travellers need to take care of how they dress. It is important you don’t pack skimpy clothes and, more than covering your shoulders, it is important to cover your bum. Avoid wearing tight tops and shorts. Men need to also watch that they wear non-revealing clothes, as well.

In bars, clubs and five-star hotels in big cities, (like Mumbai and Delhi) people dress as they might in less conservative countries. So pack according to your travel itinerary and activities.

Cotton scarves, or dupattas as they are called in India, are useful for covering the head at holy sites, and for covering up generally.

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Where to buy clothing for India

You can shop in local markets in India for versatile, cool and inexpensive clothes, especially loose clothing for the heat.

Depending on where you go you’ll easily find cheap to expensive outfits that will enable you to lend in a little more while travelling in India.

Shopping at the local markets is fun and means on your flight to India you can carry less baggage with the intention of buying most outfits in India. The cities like Delhi have huge markets with Punjabi dresses as cheap as $3 USD.

Indian Clothing Outfits for Women

You’ll have loads of fun shopping in the markets for nice dresses and loose pants in India. For an idea of the outfits you’ll find in the markets – see below. Or click on the picture to buy if you can’t stand to fly there without one or two gorgeous outfits.

The dress style that proved the coolest and most functional while travelling in India is called Punjabi dress which you can see in the first image above. They have a split up the side of each leg for movability, however, the split means that you will probably have to wear tights or loose pants under the dress to cover your upper legs and knees.

The stylish loose Indian-style pants in the third picture are called dhoti while the pants in the fifth picture are called harem pants . Use these terms while searching around the internet if you decide to buy online.

Indian Clothing Outfits for Men

There’s loads of information about women, but where is the India packing list for males? What should men wear in India? The answer is; almost anything… As long as it’s modest.

Though you technically CAN wear shorts in India – the general consensus is that shorts should only be worn by children, so you may look funny to the locals in them. It’s also a good idea to wear shorts that cover your knees for modesty if you do decide to wear them. However, you are NOT allowed to wear shorts or singlet tops in temples or religious places.

The dhoti pants can also be worn by men in India, but mainly you will see Indian mean in jeans and t-shirts. You might also like to buy yourself a loose cotton shirt at an Indian market for the heat and to get into the dhoti outfit groove.

READ: Amazing Jaipur Itinerary: 3 Days!

Essential Clothing for India

✔ thin sweater.

It is important to layer in India. Whether there is hot or cold weather, a light thin sweater will be helpful when going inside to places that have the AC in full blast.

✔ Yoga Pants

Some sweat-reducing yoga pants are great under the Punjabi dresses that you can buy in India. You’ll also find yourself doing yoga a lot so they’ll be sure to get loads of use.

✔ SPF Sunglasses

The sun in India is bright and piercing. Make sure you protect your eyes and get SPF and/or polarized sunglasses.

✔ Waterproof Rain Coat with a Nice Big Hood

Use it as a top layer in cold weather and always keep it in your daypack for emergency downpours (prevalent in the monsoon season of Southern India).

What Shoes to Wear in India

✔ chaco sandals.

They are sturdy and reliable. Make sure you get some with the backstrap and you feel comfortable walking in them for long periods of time. I suggest rinsing them off every day.

✔ Flip flops

If you don’t want to bring two sets, bring some that can be used for the shower, especially if you are going to be staying at an accommodation with shared bathrooms. Also great as casual wear.

✔ Hiking Shoes or Boots

Depending on where you are going, like if you are trekking in the north, have gear that will make sure you are safe and comfortable. Nothing is worse than not being to enjoy the beautiful scenery because of inappropriate shoes that cause blisters.

✔ Walking Shoes

An absolute must if you decide against bringing hiking shoes. You’ll be doing loads of walking around India on uneven grounds so you’ll need something covered and comfortable.

Seasons and Weather in India

India is a vast country, therefore the weather of each region will change, even during the same season. Getting to know the weather and seasons will help shape your travelling to India checklist.

Happens during December, January, February, and some of March. Since it is the coldest time of the year, this is the best time to visit most parts of India.

Temperatures will still be warm in the south (in Kochi, for example) averaging between 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F) and in the north (in Delhi ) between 7°C to 24°C (45°F to 75°F). If you are going even further north, to Manali, Leh, or Dharamshala , make sure you pack cold-weather gear.

Also known as the pre-monsoon season, it occurs from April to June and it is the hottest time of the year. Heat during this time is pretty intense. In the south, it is accompanied by stifling humidity and temperatures averaging 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F) and in the north, the dry heat can cause sunstrokes, with temperatures at 27°C to 39°C (80°F to 102°F).

If you are travelling during this time, research the weather of the places you’ll be visiting and pack accordingly.

The Monsoon Season ⛈

This season is generally from July to September, so if you are travelling during this time, pack rain gear and quick-dry clothes. Waterproof shoes are a must. Temperatures will range from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 94°F) all around India, with some variation depending on the region.

Humidity will be at its highest point, especially in the south. (Don’t forget to pack your insect repellent ).

Also known as the post-monsoon season, it happens in October and November, bringing cooler temperatures. Some areas might still have some rainfall and a lot of wind, so research the weather of where you’ll be specifically going to make sure you are weather-ready.

Layers and rain gear will be essential. Temperatures will average around 28°C and 34°C (82°F and 93°F), depending on the region.

READ: Holi in Varanasi: A Complete Guide

Have any questions about any of these India packing list items?

If you have a question about packing for India or the products I recommend, just let me know and I’ll try my best to answer them! The writer and publisher have experience with most of the products listed and veto them if we don’t have first-hand experience.

India Travel Checklist FAQs

While you might not necessarily need a sim card in India, they are extremely affordable. Both calls and internet prices are some of the lowest in the world, and the service is surprisingly quite good. There are multiple cellphone service providers in India, but the ones with the best reputation are Airtel and Vodafone-Idea. The process is not too difficult, but sometimes it might take more than one try to get your sim card activated and working!

India is a very unique country and there are certain items you shouldn’t take with you on your travel. We don’t recommend taking too many things you can buy there such as clothing and toiletries (unless you have favourites). Avoid taking too much cash with you simply because ATMs are abundant and offer the best exchange rate. Lastly, don’t bring unnecessary valuables because you will simply put a target for thieves behind your back.

If you are backpacking India, you will likely spend a prolonged period of time in the country. For that reason, these are the best items to pack for India: a good backpacking backpack, hiking boots, a water filter system, enough clothes for hot and cold, probiotics, and more! Be sure to read the entirety of this post so you don’t forget a thing!

Generally, the best time to visit India is from November to March. During this time, the temperature is warm and precipitation is at its minimum. However, this isn’t true for every place in India, so we recommend you to look deep into the places you want to visit before deciding the items to pack for India.

Written by Priscila Moscoso Meiller. Edited and pictures by Crystal Egan.

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What item won’t you forget to take to India? Tell me about it in the comments below!

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Things to Buy Before You Go

What to Pack for Monsoon

The Best India Guidebooks

How to Save on Your India Trip

The Top Destinations in India

The Most Iconic Sights in India

Which Region Is Right for You?

India's Top Historical Destinations

Romantic Indian Destinations

India's Top Hill Stations

India's Top National Parks

The Best Beaches in India

India's Best Backpacker Spots

India's Most Spiritual Destinations

The Best Luxury Spas in India

India Off the Beaten Path

India for Adventure Travelers

Where to Experience Rural India

The Top Things to Do in India

Palaces & Forts in India

India's Best Surfing Beaches

Volunteer on a Budget in India

7 Cool Sound & Light Shows

India's Most Popular Festivals

India's Best Bike Tours

See India by Motorcycle

India's Top Tribal Tours

Offbeat Tours to Take in India

India's Best Homestays

Palace Hotels in India

India's Coolest Treehouse Hotels

Top Wildlife & Jungle Lodges

The Best Hostels in India

Best Budget Hotels in India

Transport in India: An Overview

India's Major Airports

India's Best Airlines

Domestic Airlines in India

Hiring a Car & Driver in India

Your Intro to Indian Railways

Travel Classes on Indian Trains

How to Reserve a Train Ticket

How to Find & Board Your Train

Tips for Train Travel in India

India's Scenic Toy Trains

12 Indian Etiquette Don'ts

The Top 10 Indian Stereotypes

Tipping in India

What Does the Head Shake Mean?

9 Challenges You'll Face in India

How to Avoid Culture Shock

Top 5 Monsoon Health Concerns

Voltage Information for India

How to Use Your Cell Phone

How to Say Hello in Hindi

Often Misunderstood Hindi Terms

Hindi Language Books

Most Common Indian Scams

How to Handle Begging in India

How to Spot Fake Indian Currency

What to Buy in India

How to Buy a Sari in India

How to Bargain at Indian Markets

How to Get an Indian Visa

India's Visa Types, Explained

Applying for an E-Visa

India's Climate & Seasons

Monsoon in India

Your Essential Packing List

Suggested Packing List for India

What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

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India is a developing country with conservative dress standards. Therefore it's important that you take time to consider what to bring to India. Here are some suggestions for your packing list. If you'll be visiting India during the monsoon season , check out this special monsoon season packing list for India as well.

Read more about nine essential items to include on your India packing list.

The type of luggage best suited for travel to India really depends on your itinerary. If you only plan to visit major cities and don't intend to do much walking, a suitcase is fine. However, roads and pavements are often dirty and in poor condition. Also keep in mind that the lanes in some cities, such as Jodhpur and Varanasi, are so narrow that vehicles can't fit down them. Therefore, if you intend to travel a lot on foot and go off the beaten path, a backpack is better. For sightseeing during the day, it's a good idea to carry a daypack, or other sturdy bag that can't be easily opened or accessed by pickpockets. Make sure it's big enough to fit in all your essentials, including water.

Visitors often prefer to shop for clothes in India, as they like to adopt a more local way of dressing and clothes can be purchased very cheaply. Major cities such as Mumbai and Delhi are fast becoming very westernized though and you'll see people wearing jeans, t-shirts, and even short skirts. In smaller cities and villages, people still dress conservatively.

In general, the most important rule for both ladies and men is to keep your legs and shoulders covered. However, it's okay for women to show shoulders and for men to wear shorts in large cities and beach locations such as Goa. In nightclubs, western dress standards of jeans and a top (or dress) for girls, and jeans and a t-shirt or shirt for guys, apply.

For ladies, bring long skirts, long dresses, long pants, and jeans. Wearing an Indian top such as a kurta over jeans is an easy, fuss-free combination for travel. Unless you're heading to Goa or plan on hitting the clubs, leave items such as strapless tops, spaghetti strap tops, and crop tops behind. Yes, you will see Indian women's bellies on display when they're dressed in saris but that's traditional attire. It's very different. Avoid wearing tight tops and wear a scarf or shawl to cover your breasts.

For men, short-sleeved shirts are more respectful than t-shirts, although t-shirts are fine.

Does it really matter what you wear in India? If you don't follow conservative dress standards, it's likely that no one will say anything. It comes down to how much you want to be respected though. Indian men are much more likely to harass and photograph women who are not appropriately covered up, as they perceive them to be of loose or immoral character.

Footwear is another thing that can be bought very cheaply in India. Markets abound with shoes in all different colors and designs. You get what you pay for though, so make sure you bring a sturdy and comfortable pair of walking shoes, sneakers or sandals. If you intend to go out in the evenings, bring a pair of dress shoes as well. The rest you can easily get along the way.

Should you wear open or closed-toed shoes? It largely depends on personal preference. Some people favor closed-toed shoes because they don't want to expose their feet to unsanitary conditions . However, if the weather will be hot, your feet may get uncomfortable and sweaty. In addition, you will be required to remove your footwear often in India. Wearing shoes without laces will reduce the hassle.

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist attractions in India. ATM machines can also be found in most places, including in small towns and airports. You can simply withdraw rupees from an ATM in the airport terminal when you arrive. However, when using ATMs, be aware that many do charge service fees additional to any fees charged by your bank. Tickets at many tourist sites can be paid for in US dollars if you have the exact change, so do carry some US currency with you in small denominations.

Medicines for specific ailments, with similar active ingredients to what are found overseas, are available in India. The problem is figuring out the brand names and making the pharmacist understand what you're after. Therefore, you should bring an adequate supply of whatever medicines you usually need. Common items such as Vitamin C and acetaminophen (a standard pain killer) are not difficult to purchase from a pharmacy. However, problems may still be encountered as, for example, acetaminophen is known as paracetamol in India. Therefore it also helps if you describe your symptoms, such as headache or stomach ache, to the pharmacist. Indian pharmacies will supply antibiotics and many other drugs without a prescription. This is no longer the case for sleeping tablets or sedatives though. Pharmacists in some areas, such as south India, are also becoming stricter about the types of drugs they'll issue without a prescription. Hence, it's a good idea to bring your prescriptions with you.

Personal Care Items

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Shampoo, conditioner, moisturizers, razors, deodorant, condoms, and sanitary napkins and pads are all readily available in India. You'll have to search to get roll-on antiperspirant and tampons outside major cities, but they can be found. The tampons don't usually come with applicators through. Bring mosquito repellent with you, as western brands tend to be stronger and more effective than the Indian ones. It's also a good idea to pack sunscreen and your favorite hair products. The range of gels and hair sprays is limited, and hair wax is virtually non-existent, outside major cities.

Other Useful Items

Anti-bacterial and wet wipes are extremely useful for many situations. A torch or flashlight, sunglasses, hat, padlock and chain (to secure your luggage on trains), toilet paper, earplugs, and sleeping bag liner also come in handy. If you wish to use any electronic devices from the United States, you may need a voltage converter and plug adapter. People coming from countries with 230V currency, such as Australia and the UK, only require a plug adapter for their appliances. In addition, it's highly recommended that you bring a couple of books. You'll find yourself waiting around a lot in India (the concept of time and punctuality is much different to the west) and reading material is invaluable. Many guesthouses also have a collection of books and will allow swapping. A good India guidebook can be helpful too.

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India packing list: what to pack for india in 2024.

Knowing how to pack for India is actually a pretty tough task, and one that we first struggled with.

There are all kinds of questions probably racing through your head, such as …

“What can I wear in India as a woman tourist?”

“Is there a dress code in India for tourists?”

“Can males and females wear shorts in India?”

Their relatively strict and reserved religious culture means that the dress code in India certainly won't be quite as laid back as it is in the western world.

You also need to take into account other important things such as the time of year and the many diverse climates that India has.

To help put your mind at ease and help you know exactly what to pack for India, I’ve gone ahead and put together the ultimate India packing list .

Filled with all the tips & tricks we picked up on when backpacking in India .

Let's get started!

Before traveling anywhere, make sure you have your travel insurance in place. We recommend SafetyWing. ‍

Here's a few reasons ...

• They Cover for Covid-19
• You can pause and restart policies each month
• They are more affordable than many providers

For more info, check out my in-depth SafetyWing review .

Ultimate India travel packing checklist

Men's packing list, women's packing list, travel essentials, tech/gadgets, health & safety, miscellaneous, other items to consider, a few things you need to know about india.

Here are 3 key things you need to first be aware of before you start packing your bags and heading off abroad for an epic trip across India.

1. Religion in India

Just like Bali , and many other places throughout Asia, the dominant religion in India is Hinduism, with roughly 80% of the population claiming to be so.

People tend to dress more conservatively than in western countries, though they are certainly not the strictest of religions.

Yes, you will typically see women covering up more of their bodies (particularly their legs) but they do still have skin on show.

Many women have parts of their back open and many locals even have parts of their cleavage and stomachs showing, no matter what age they are.

Religion and dress code in India becomes more important when visiting religious sites.

Here, it is more respectful if you have some way to cover up.

Cazzy always carries some sort of light shawl with her so she can cover up the rest of her arms if required.

She typically always had on a long, light dress that covered up more than enough and didn’t offend.

On a side note, if you are a female tourist in India, then you will get stared at a LOT by locals, particularly the men.

As she's from Ireland , Cazzy is naturally very white and really stands out.

So if you have a lot of skin on show then you are just encouraging more people to stare at you in an uncomfortable manner.

2. Geography of India

India is HUGE!

It’s more than 3 million square kilometres and home to more than 1.3 billion people; roughly 13 times the size of the UK.

As such, you can expect it to have an incredibly varied climate depending on which part of the country you visit.

On our visit, we went as far south as Goa and as far north as Delhi & Agra , so were able to experience many of the changes.

As a very rough guide, the further north you get, it tends to get a little cooler, whereas Goa in the south is much hotter.

This is a VERY rough idea and not totally accurate as your experiences of temperature and rainfall will vary depending on how far east and west you are.

For a much deeper understanding of the expected temperatures and climate in the parts you plan on visiting, check out this website .

3. Seasons in India

India has 4 seasons:

• Winter - January to February
• Summer - March to May
• Monsoon - June to September
• Post-monsoon - October to December

Again, these will vary depending on which part of the country you are in, but are the typical overarching months.

We were packing for India in November, and had great weather during our entire 3 weeks there .

In the south it was definitely hotter, with many days being in the low 30s or high 20s, and by the time we were in Delhi it was typically in the mid-20s.

The most popular months to visit India are November to February and it’s not surprising as the weather is much more manageable across the board.

Choosing the right bag for India

When packing for India, the first important decision you need to make is deciding which bag to take.

If you are backpacking India, like us, then I’d recommend one larger rucksack , perhaps 60-70 litres and one smaller day bag , closer to 25 litres.

This will be plenty big enough to pack everything you need, plus more.

Our visit to India formed part of a much larger 3 month backpacking adventure through Sri Lanka and Nepal, and our bags were perfect for holding everything we needed for our entire trip.

Of course, everyone’s trip is different, so when selecting the best backpack for India (if you haven’t already), consider this:

• How long will your total backpacking trip be?
• What sorts of activities do you plan on doing in India?
• Will you be backpacking India on your own or with someone else?

Choosing a larger backpack

I received my backpack as a backpacking gift just after uni, and it's still going strong. It’s accompanied me on every backpacking adventure across more than 2 dozen different countries on 4 continents.

It’s made by Osprey who are the go-to choice for the majority of backpackers.

We see them used everywhere and it’s really unsurprising why.

They are fantastic quality, lightweight, strong and look great.

I’ve even sewn badges into the sides of mine for every country we visit and it hasn’t ruined the integrity at all.

Here are our 2 recommendations:

Bradley's choice

OSPREY PACKS FARPOINT 70 (FOR MEN)

Cazzy's choice.

OSPREY PACKS RENN 65 (FOR WOMEN)

Choosing the perfect day bag.

A day bag is an essential travel item for India for 2 reasons.

Most obviously because you’ll need it when out exploring individual areas during the day.

But a great day bag is also essential for helping you to keep valuable items close to you when moving between destinations.

For example, when taking long bus or boat journeys between places, we like to store our expensive equipment, like our travel laptops and cameras, in these bags so they are always closer by.

The Loctote Flak Sack is perfect for just this occasion as it's a specially designed anti-theft travel bag .

When choosing which day bag is great for you, consider things like:

• Will you be doing a lot of vigorous activities? Like hiking
• Do you need special compartments for your own travel tech?

My day bag is slightly smaller but best suited for day trips and hiking; it’s plenty big enough for both Cazzy and my own needs.

Cazzy’s day bag choice, the Tropicfeel Shell backpack, is an amazing bag in it's own right. A little more pricey but can actually be doubled up as a main backpack or camera backpack as well as it has the ability to expand and contract. Read more in our review of it here .

2-in 1 Backpack combination

If you're looking for a backpack and daypack combination that's waterproof, spacious and practical, then we highly recommend the Salkan.

We've conducted a full review on the Salkan backpack and daypack which you can find here , but I seriously feel it's a fantastic investment that will last you a lifetime of travels.

We've been using it for a while now across Canada and the USA and it's totally awesome.

OSPREY PACKS STRATOS 24

Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

What about roll-on luggage.

If you're not really into backpacks, and prefer roll-on luggage, then our top recommendation (based solely off personal experience) would have to be Horizn Studios (read our review of them here ).

They make absolute top quality cases, and in particular I am a big fan of the M5 Smart . It's a little more expensive but comes integrated with a portable charger.

Meaning you can charge your devices on-the-go and while waiting around at airports.

If you're planning on backpacking India, then roll-on luggage might not be the most practical solution, though some people do disagree.

If youre going for more a off a resort-based holiday to India, then it will be spot on!

For more ideas, check out our guide on the best luxury carry-on luggage .

Final thoughts on picking bags for travel to India

If you do plan on travelling as a couple in India, then here’s something to consider.

Less is more.

What do I mean by this?

Well, it means that you probably don’t need to take anywhere near as much with you as you think you would.

When Cazzy and I backpack for a few months or more, we only actually take one larger 70 litre backpack between us and it is plenty.

And as you will see in the rest of this India packing list for backpacking, we take plenty of stuff with us, more than the average travelers.

Partly because of Cazzy’s need for medical supplies (she’s type 1 diabetic) and partly because we work whilst travelling so need a lot of tech.

It’s so much more liberating having just one rucksack between us and is much more convenient overall.

For more backpack ideas, check out my in-depth Solgaard review . These guys offer a full range of backpacks, specifically designed for modern digital nomads who need to carry a mixture of clothes, as well as work gear (like laptops) when travelling.

You might also like: Best Eco-Friendly Bags For Travel

What to pack for India: Travel Essentials

Here’s a look at all the other travel essentials for India that you might need. Feel free to use the buttons below to skip to different sections.

What to wear in India for men

A male India packing list should ideally be made up of light, loose fitting clothes.

For the majority of the places you visit in India, it’s going to be hot and humid, so heavy clothes are just going to leave you feeling exhausted.

That being said, the night-times can have cold weather once the sun goes in, so it’s worth having one pair of jeans and a hoodie with you as a minimum.

Here’s a look at what I packed for India.

• 2 pairs of swim trunks
• 1 pair of jorts
• 1 pair of jeans
• Lightweight trousers
• 1 evening shirt - For those nicer restaurants
• 2 tank tops
• 1 lightweight rain jacket - If you visit during the monsoon season (June to December) then make sure you have one of these!
• 1 pair of trainers - I recommend Tropicfeel as a great all round travel trainer for all kinds of weather
• 1 pair of flip flops - I wore my Reef flip flops wherever possible in India, I love them as they are incredibly robust and well suited for longer walks
• 5 pairs of trainer socks
• 1 cap - Essential in helping to keep the hot, mid-day sun off your face
• 1 pair of sunglasses - You can pick these up really cheap in most parts of India

What to wear in India for women (from Cazzy)

When it comes to packing clothing for India as a woman, you’ll be happy to hear it isn’t overly complicated. 

One thing I would note is that India is bursting with amazing clothing, so I would actually bring less, so that you can purchase some beautiful pieces whilst out there; such as long skirts, or one of a kind dresses and shoes! 

• 1 shoulder scarf - These are light and airy and perfect for covering up when you’re at certain temples, like the Taj Mahal
• 1 pair of sunglasses 
• 1 light rain jacket - I would base this on the season you’re visiting, so if you’re visiting in the dry season, you will not need this
• 1 pair of flip flops - Essential for the wearing on the beaches in India
• 4 t-shirts 
• 2 pairs of shorts 
• 1 swimming costume - I prefer swimming suits in India, just out of respect for local culture 
• 3 sun dresses - A must see for when walking around different sites 
• 1 pair of trainers - Bring just one pair of shoes for India; I recommend either Skechers or Tropicfeel . Any other shoes you need you can easily buy when in India
• 5 pairs of trainer socks 
• 1 long skirt - Either bring one with you, or wait and buy one out in India because they’re beautifully made and very cheap! 
• 1 pair of light trousers - Great for the evenings in India or if you’re doing some light hiking. I recommend Buddha Pants for a great choice on style, and they're super easy to pack.
• 1 playsuit or jumpsuit - Perfect for jazzing up an outfit for the evening if you’re somewhere special 
• 1 light jacket - Perfect for long train journeys, internal flights and if you pick up a sea breeze in the evening

Washing clothes in India

Getting your clothes washed in India is pretty easy, and you’ll find places to help you out in all major tourist areas.

In fact, the hostels and hotels themselves usually offer a cheap and easy service, and you can have your clothes back within a day.

First aid kit

For all of our travels, we always pack a straightforward first aid kit, just in case of minor emergencies. Here’s what we took with us to India:

• Diarrhoea kit - Essential for India where many people suffer from the dreaded “Delhi Belly” which wasn’t an issue for us, yay!
• Paracetamol
• Scissors/nail clippers
• Moleskin tape
• Needles and thread
• Bandages & tape
• Antiseptic cream
• Travel sickness tablets - Great for all those long bus and train journeys through India where it's easy to get travel sick

Ready-made travel first aid kit

If you don’t yet own a travel first aid kit, then here’s a good option to buy.

It contains the majority of what you need and you can then just add in any other items you want to take with you.

Plus, it’s small enough to tuck away in your backpack and not take up much space.

You can pick up any toiletries you need when in India, but the exact products you are used to back home might be hard to find or a lot more expensive than what they would usually be as they are imported.

That’s why one of my top India packing tips would be to buy a full set of your toiletries before you leave, and these should last you for at least a good few weeks of your trip.

I wouldn’t take much more than that as then you’re just asking for trouble with some sort of unwanted liquids explosion in your luggage!

• Wash bag - Buy one ( like this ) that has a handle on it. Many bathrooms in Indian hotels and hostels are cramped with nowhere to set them, but having a handle makes your life a LOT easier!
• 2 x toothbrush 
• 2 toothbrush travel container
• Men’s deodorant
• Women’s deodorant
• Shampoo & conditioner 2 in 1
• Dry shampoo
• Disposable razors
• Shaving foam
• Electric razor
• Small perfume
• Small aftershave
• Toilet paper - It’s worth keeping a spare toilet roll on your when travelling through India, as many public toilets won’t have any

Travel Banking

When people sort out what to pack when travelling to India, they rarely give enough thought to how they’re actually going to get the best value for money when there.

Well, a key part of packing for any trip should include which travel cards you decide to take with you.

These will allow you to get the most bang for your buck when abroad and make the most of the money you have worked so hard to save for travelling .

It’s also important to make sure that you have enough travel cards so that, just in case you lose one or have something stolen, then you have backups.

When we travel, we have 4.

• 2 live in my wallet
• 1 lives in my big rucksack
• 1 lives in Cazzy’s big rucksack or day bag

That way, if one bag goes missing, or my wallet gets stolen, then we have some way of withdrawing and spending money.

What are the best banks in India?

India is the only country we have visited where we have had issues withdrawing money.

Despite there being so many different banks, very few actually seemed to allow us to withdraw money, which ended up being an issue in Goa in particular.

I had to ride on the back of our hotel owners moped for about an hour, visiting every ATM in the area and finding none that would work!

Outside of Goa, the best and most reliable bank that we found for withdrawals was Bank of Baroda.

Which travel cards do we use?

Nowadays, there are so many great solutions out there that you need to find yourself an option with the best possible currency conversions and limited charges on ATM withdrawals.

We have trialled a number of different solutions over the years and the two favorites we have come down to are Monzo and Revolut .

We’ve used these guys since the start and, if you’re from the UK then I recommend these above all other options.

If you’re from the USA, then check their sites as they are both either live or set to launch very soon abroad.

For more information, check out this guide I put together: Monzo vs Revolut .

It also includes details about the other options available to you.

To get started with either of these, all you do is download the app, enter some basic details and order your free travel cards.

• Find Monzo here: Apple / Android
• Find Revolut here: Apple / Android

Important Documents

There are a number of key documents you will need to include as a part of your packing list for India; including ...

• Wallet to hold important documents - This is one of my favourite travel tips and a great way to keep all important documents together and organised. Particularly important if your trip lasts a few months and there’s lots of pieces of paper that could easily get lost
• Driving license and international driving permit - One of the best ways to get around in India is by moped, particularly when out and about exploring the areas around cities like Udaipur . To hire a moped (or a car) you’ll need your home driving license as well as an international driving permit. If you’re from the UK, then you can get this from The Post Office , be sure to sort it at least a few weeks before you’re set to depart.
• Copy of your passport and travel insurance - It’s always useful to keep a photocopy of your passport and travel insurance on you when travelling
• Copy of your vaccinations - When entering India, the officials may require you to show proof of having certain vaccinations. It all depends on which country you come from; but as we visit so many countries, we always keep a copy of this with us
• Print out of your travel insurance - If ever you do have an accident and need medical treatment abroad, it's extremely useful to have a printed copy of your travel insurance, with detailed notes of what you are covered for and to what level
• Travel insurance - You will definitely need travel insurance for India! For that matter, you should have travel insurance for any country. You never know what will go wrong and the cost of treatment without insurance can easily enter the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. If you’re from the US, then SafetyWing is known for providing good value travel insurance with solid coverage. If you’re from the UK, then they may be too expensive and it’s best to start your search with a tool like Compare The Market. Be sure to check the terms & conditions before buying. For example, I could only find one insurer able to offer me insurance for trips of up to 90 days, most only cover you for trips up to 2 or 3 weeks.

Cameras & other tech

As mentioned earlier, we tend to take more travel tech with us than the average traveller.

Probably because we work whilst travelling and are always looking to create great content to share on the blog!

Here’s a look at the cameras and other equipment that we packed for India.

If you want to capture the best quality travel pictures possible in India, then a DSLR is what you need. When combined with a variety of lenses ( like this one ), you have the ability to create some epic shots, especially as your skills and understanding get better. Our skills with our DSLR are slowly getting better and we try to practice more and more as we go. heck out our latest lens guides for more tips: Sony a7 / Sony a7ii / Sony a7iii / Sony a7riii / Sony a6000 / Sony a6300 / Sony a6400 / Sony a6500 / Sony a6600 / Sony z6 / Canon M50 / Canon 80D / Canon 90D / Canon 6D Mark II / Panasonic GH5 / Nikon D750 / Nikon D850 / Nikon D3100 / Nikon D3200 / Nikon D3300 / Nikon D3400 / Nikon D3500 / Nikon D5600

Handheld video camera

We used our Canon video camera everywhere we went in India, and it’s perfect for capturing really high quality pictures, video and sound no matter where you are. Best of all, it’s lightweight and far less bulky than a DSLR camera . So when we were out on day trips around places like Pushkar , with just a daybag, it was essential in capturing all the gorgeous photos you see on our India travel blog posts . For more ideas, check out this guide on best blogging cameras . They work just as well for non bloggers too!

Underwater camera / action camera

We’ve tried a few action cameras in recent years, but none compare to the GoPro Hero 8 which is a truly revolutionary and awesome piece of kit. In particular, the auto-stabilisation feature means that you can pick up smooth footage no matter what. It also has much-improved sound quality and is far less bulky than any other decent action cameras on the market. If you don't want to splash the cash on a GoPro, then there are some much cheaper GoPro alternatives out there which don't cost near as much and still have many of the same great features.

When we travelled to India in 2018, we did take our travel drone with us, however we didn’t use it. The reason was that it was illegal to fly them there without having the right permit. It appears that many of those restrictions have now lifted , so you may want to take yours with you and actually use it! If a top drone from DJI is a littler too expensive for your budget, check out this guide we published on the best DJI alternatives currently available.

Other Gadgets we travel with

Staying healthy in India

Before visiting India, it is worth picking up a few key items to help make sure you stay safe.

In particular the biggest issues you could face in India include the incredibly hot sun, mosquitos and the dreaded “Delhi Belly”.

• Antimalarials - Mosquitos are present in different parts of India at different times of the year. To find out if you are at risk during your visit, it’s best to visit your local travel doctor before leaving your home country.
• Mosquito repellent spray - Bug spray is very useful for keeping all manner of bugs away in the evening. It can be expensive to buy in India, so best to pack it before you leave home.
• Plug in mosquito deterrent - If you are particularly worried about mosquitos or other bugs getting you whilst you sleep, then a plug-in deterrent is a great way to keep the little blighters at bay. You simply plug it into the wall where it emits a high pitch noise, that you can’t hear but which the bugs can.
• Sunscreen - Temperatures throughout India regularly exceed 30 and sometimes even 40 Degrees Celsius . It's important that you have suitable sunscreen to help protect you against the worst of the rays. It’s best to pick up a couple of bottles before you fly there as finding good quality sunscreen for a low price can be challenging when in India.
• Diarrhoea kit - I already mentioned this earlier in the packing list but it’s well worth including again here. The risk of getting sick from eating food in India is relatively high, especially if eating cheaper food from local street vendors. We never suffered with this in India but we certainly did when in Thailand ! Our diarrhoea kit was a vital piece of kit that helped us through.
• TSA Approved Travel Padlock - Take at least one, so that you can keep your main rucksack safely secured whenever it’s not in your sight. Particularly useful for flights as well as bus and train journeys. Be sure to get a TSA approved travel lock.

Miscellaneous things to pack for India

Here’s a few other pieces of travel gear for India that you may want to add to your own packing list ...

• Fold down coffee mug - If you love your coffee (like Cazzy!) then having your own mug is a great way to take coffee on the go and cut back on using paper cups. A fold down one is best as it allows you to pack it away in your bag with minimum space being used.
• Multivitamins - We like to take these travelling with us, just to make sure we get our necessary amount of vitamins and minerals each day. It’s definitely one of the best things to take travelling to India, as you may find that you end up eating much of the same food every day which doesn’t necessarily give you all you need.
• International Travel Adaptor - In India you will find 3 types of adaptors: Type C, Type D & Type M. My best advice would be to pick up an international travel adaptor which will have you covered for all future backpacking destinations .
• Pin to open sim card hole in phone - By getting a local sim card in India, you can stay connected to data no matter where you are. But to change your sim you’ll ideally need one of the special tools to open the socket where they are held in your phone. I always keep a metal one in my wallet that is useful all around the world.
• Dry bag - If you plan on heading out onto the water in India, then a dry bag is useful for keeping your stuff safe and dry.
• Quick drying towel - There is no need to take a large towel with you to India as all hotels seem to offer them inclusive with your stay. Of course, if you’re staying in hostels then you’ll need your own, but a quick drying towel is still best. You can use it for day trips when out and about and it can dry quickly on the end of your bed when not in use.
• Playing cards
• Hand sanitiser - It’s a good idea to clean your hands regularly and before eating so as to avoid getting unnecessarily sick

What NOT to pack for India!

Here’s a few things that you should not add to your India packing list ...

• Water purifier - The only time you’ll need one of these is if you plan to go off hiking in the wilderness. Everywhere else you can pick up bottled water that is perfectly safe for you to drink.
• Sleeping bag - Again, only necessary for camping, and not needed for staying in hostels.
• Tonnes of clothes - India is one of the best countries in the world for picking up cheap clothes. Best of all, they are of great quality. Cazzy picked up a few dresses in Jodhpur that she still uses more than 2 years on; they look fantastic and cost less than $4 each. You can also pick up knock-off branded products that are the same quality as the real thing but at a fraction of a price. I bought a new wallet in Jaipur and it’s still going strong more than 2 years later. These markets are located in most major cities.
• Lots of valuables - Theft can be common in India, especially if strolling through busy cities like Mumbai with cameras, money and jewellery on show. Instead, only take what you really need. If you do have to carry more, pick up a quality anti-theft bag to help better secure your valuables.

Other items to add to your India packing list

Here’s a few other awesome things to pack for your India trip that we didn’t take personally, but you may want to.

• Binoculars - If you plan on going on safari anywhere and trying to spot wildlife, then be sure to pack some binoculars.
• Travel pillow - Great for all those long bus and train journeys throughout India. Personally, we don’t take these as they’re just too bulky and take up more space than we think they’re worth.
• Packing cubes - We WISH we had taken these to India!
• Physical books/travel guides - To help save space, you can pick up downloadable travel guides from Lonely Planet and Rough Guides and access these through your phone. Or, if you do like physical guide books then you’ll find that most hostels and hotels have a copy of these that you can borrow and read.
• Ear plugs - If you’re a light sleeper and plan on staying in a lot of hostels, then definitely get some of these.
• Waterproof phone case - If you’re going to be in the water a lot and want to snap some cool photos, then one of these is a must have travel item for india
• Mosquito net - We don’t travel with one of these, but if you’re heading to areas with lots of mosquitoes and don’t think your accommodation is very high quality, then these might be necessary.
• Kindle - I love reading when travelling, and use the Kindle App on my phone. But having a Kindle could be a good way to go if you want a bigger screen.
• Hiking boots - Only if you plan on doing enough hiking to warrant them. They do take up a LOT of space in your backpack.
• Selfie stick
• Bluetooth speaker
• Underwater dome for GoPro - These look so cool and we wish we had one when out exploring the beaches of Goa !
• Buff - This is a really versatile piece of kit to have with you, and many travellers won’t go anywhere without one.

Top tips on what to bring to India

Remember, it gets hot there.

It’s hot in most parts of India almost all year, so light clothing is the ideal way to go. Also, be sure to take anything you think necessary in helping to protect you from the sun; including sun lotion, hats and glasses.

Keep asking yourself “do I really need this?”

I love how travelling for long periods of time forces you to become more minimalist and only pack what you need. So when packing for India, regularly ask yourself if everything you’re planning on taking is strictly necessary. Remember, almost everything can be bought cheaply out there so, just in case you do need something, you can always pick it up when there.

Don’t take any risks

You’re going to face a few health risks travelling in India, including malaria and the chance of picking up a range of other diseases. So take precautions by visiting your travel doctor well before your trip and getting their advice on how to best stay safe . This will require, not only getting malaria tablets, but also getting a range of other injections prior to travelling. They can also advise you on any other necessary medications to take to India.

Well, that’s just about everything we packed for India.

As well as answering all of your burning questions, you should now know what to pack for a trip to India!

Is there something that you think we forgot and that you’d add to your own India packing list?

Great! Drop me a comment below and let me know!

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

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The Ultimate Travel Checklist For Your India Trip + Free PDF

It can be overwhelming to plan an international trip to a far-off place like India.

When I was planning my trip to India and helping my family plan theirs, it was helpful to have a complete timeline of when we should start doing important things like: Booking our flights, getting our visa, and more.

Below you’ll see the checklist I use for myself and friends to plan our India trips…

Want a free travel checklist PDF for India ? Click the link to check it out and see if it will help you pack and plan.

Things You Need:

• Visa: You can apply for most visas online if you’re staying up to 5 years in India.
• Travel insurance: Need to cancel your trip due to sickness? You’re covered. Need to fly home due to a death in the family? You’d get reimbursed. Need to be evacuated back to the US because something terrible happened? It would be handled.
• Flight tickets to India, as well as any domestic flights.
• Train tickets
• Accommodation
• Vaccinations: You need to decide if you want them or not?
• Valid Passport: Make sure your passport has validity for more than 6 months after your trip.
• International Driver’s License: If you want to rent a scooter, you would want one of these to do so legally.

4-6 Months Before Departure

If you want to be prepared, you can start taking care of things at this stage so preparing for India can be as smooth as possible. If you’d prefer to procrastinate, it’s not necessary to start now.

How Long Are You Traveling For?

Can you get away from work for only two weeks? Or can you travel around India for 6 months?

It’s time to start figure out how long you can get away to explore beautiful India.

Where Are You Going?

India is huge and there’s a lot to see. Are you going to do the most popular tour like the Golden Triangle?

Or do you want to explore the little-known destinations like Khajuraho’s Erotic Temples? Pondicherry’s chill beach culture?

What do you like to do?

• Are you looking for beach parties and raves? Then Goa is for you.
• Are you looking for historical monuments you can only find in India? Then the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is for you. Maybe add in a trip to Varanasi.
• Do you want to take a yoga training? Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world.
• What about doing adventure sports in the Himalayas? Manali should be on your list.
• Do you want a romantic vacation with your partner? Then head to Kerala and do a houseboat tour on the Backwaters.
• Are you seeking enlightenment? Check out the shiva temples in South India like Madurai.

Once you know where you are going then you can start researching how you’ll get there and around:

• Book hotel rooms with free cancellation: Booking.com lets you cancel some hotel bookings and I’ve booked hotels 6 months ahead of time then been able to switch them last-minute without a penalty.
• Sign up for price alerts on flights from Skyscanner : You have time to buy your flight but you may see a great deal on a service like Skyscanner. Just plug in your flight details and once you get some estimates click Get Price Alerts . Then when the price changes you will get an email.
• Research train tickets on Indian Railways: You can book tickets as much as 120 days in advance, so you want to start looking at prices and availability. You still have time though, but this will give you an idea about a reasonable travel budget .

Start Your Paperwork

Visa : You can apply as much as 120 days before your trip for your visa. You don’t need to apply at this stage yet and I recommend you apply 1 month before you depart. If you don’t want the headaches, having to do this yourself, then get help from iVisa .

Make sure your passport is valid. Getting an Indian visa means your passport should NOT expire within 6 months of your trip. If it does, then you need to get a new passport and that can take 4-6 weeks for a US passport.

Research Your Insurance Needs

What type of coverage do you need?

At this stage, you want to have an idea of what travel insurance is and what you might need. You do NOT need to apply until you know where you are going, BUT the earlier you buy, then you can be covered for more things because you eliminate some pre-existing conditions. For instance, if you waited to buy, then broke your leg… you wouldn’t be covered for any treatment for that condition since it happened before you bought it.

World Nomads has been my travel insurance provider of choice for years. They’re great for travelers who want plenty of coverage for the important stuff like emergency medical and evacuation insurance. They also have good trip cancellation and interruption coverage which means if you have to cancel your trip you can get refunded for pre-paid expenses.

BUT they’re great because they cover a lot of adventurous activities like hiking, scuba diving and driving a scooter… which are NOT covered by most travel insurance policies.

You can also sign up in a few minutes on their site and they’re recommended by the Lonely Planet.

SafetyWing is my recent favorite travel insurance provider. I like that they also provide good coverage for important items like emergency medical and evacuation coverage. They will also cover you if you visit your home country, which most providers will NOT do. For instance, if I flew back to the US from India to visit family, I could get covered if the trip was less than 3 weeks.

The cost is also twice as inexpensive as World Nomads, AND I can pay each month instead of having to buy a 6-month policy in advance.

Their site is also very easy to navigate and understand, and you can check your price in a few minutes if you like their offer. [By clicking and purchasing through that link you also take a step towards supporting this website at no cost to yourself.]

To Vaccinate or Not?

India does NOT require any vaccinations for entry unless you have been to an area with Yellow Fever (like some countries in Africa).

You should be up to date on your routine vaccinations before going to India, such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, chickenpox, and your annual flu shot. But you need to decide if you want to get extra vaccinations before your trip.

The CDC recommends that MOST travelers get vaccinated for:

• Hepatitis A: You can contract this through contaminated food or water.
• Typhoid: You can contract this through contaminated food or water too. It’s especially found in rural areas and street food.

The CDC recommends that SOME travelers get vaccinated for:

• Hepatitis B
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Yellow Fever

IMPORTANT: Once you know where you are traveling to in India, then see your doctor and ask for recommendations on what would be best for your situation. You have time and could schedule this closer to 4 weeks before departure.

Research India: Read and Watch Movies

I couldn’t get enough books and novels about India. The novel Shantaram actually inspired my trip for the first time, as the main character lived in the Mumbai slums and worked as a doctor, then a gangster.

Here’s the ultimate list of books to read before traveling to India .

I’m also a film buff and have tracked over 2,000 films that I’ve watched. There are some great movies to inspire and educate you on Indian culture.

You can check out my 50 recommendations for India trip movies.

7-10 Weeks Before Departure

You should have progressed with your research, have a working draft of your itinerary and are ready to make some purchases.

Buy International Flights

CheapAir.com did an Airline Study looking at 917,000,00 airfares in +8,000 markets for the best time to buy airline tickets before an international flight and found that…

• In 2017, 70 days before your departure was the cheapest time to buy your tickets.
• In 2018, 54 days was the cheapest time to buy your tickets.
• For an average trip, the lowest price changed 62 times with an average drop or raise of $36.
• If you book 319 to 169 days in advance, you’ll pay $50 more than the lowest average prices. But you have more airfare options, and can choose seats and sit with your travel partners.
• If you book 121 to 21 days in advance, you can find the cheapest fares.

The best time to buy your flights is Tuesday around 3 pm EST. You’ll also want to fly on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday if you can.

4-6 Weeks Before Departure

At this point, you should have a concrete itinerary and know where you’re going. It’s time to buy!

• Finalize itinerary
• Book hotel rooms
• Book train tickets
• Book domestic flights in India
• Apply for your visa
• Buy travel insurance
• Get an International Driver’s License

Buy Items For Your India Trip

Some items you want to bring with you on your India trip:

• Travel t-shirt
• Travel underwear
• Packable daypack
• Travel adaptor
• Charcoal tablets
• Grapefruit seed extract
• Anti-diarrhea pills
• Electrolyte tablets
• Melatonin tablets
• Great footwear
• Sleeping bag liner
• Mosquito net
• Women’s peeing kit
• Neck wallet
• Travel backpack

If you’ve prepared well, then you can be chilling at this time. But there are a few things to do:

• Bring extra cash: Bring a couple of hundred dollars in your local currency as a backup
• Research ATMs at the airport you are arriving in , so you can easily find them and withdraw cash for a good rate. The currency exchange kiosks in the airport have higher rates and often hidden fees.
• Put travel notices in your banks and credit cards
• Pack your bag.

Make 5 paper copies of your important documents:

• Hotel reservations
• Plane Tickets
• Drivers license

I use these to give to hotels. This is not necessary but some will ask and smaller places may not have a copier.

Make 2 digital copies of your documents. Put them on your phone and also online in Google Driver or Evernote. Then if you lose your phone, you can still access them.

You can use this free travel checklist PDF for India to plan. The important thing is to get started early and have fun as you plan. India has so many beautiful destinations and things to do, this could be an adventure you’ll never forget!

Benjamin Jenks

Traveler, Filmmaker, and Lover of India. I've been living, writing and sharing what I've learned about traveling in India since 2018. Learn more about me here or Youtube .

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Complete India Packing List For 2024 + PDF Checklist

When I first visited India a few years ago, I had absolutely no idea what to pack.

I ended up way overpacking, taking tons of things I didn’t need and I forgot several things that I really did need. A list like this would have helped me so much!

In this ultimate India packing list, I’ve included literally every single thing you should take to India. It works for both men & women.

Let’s jump straight in…

Table of Contents

Packing List For India

India isn’t like any other country that I’ve been to before so I had to buy a lot of stuff for my trip.

I also found that there were a lot of things that I wasn’t able to buy when I got there and I wished I’d brought them with me (I explain alllll of that below).

Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

In India, people tend to dress more modestly than we do in the West. That means no shorts, no short skirts, no tank tops and no skimpy dresses.

As a general rule, I’d say try to cover your shoulders and knees at all times.

The thing is, it’s not like you can’t wear things like shorts (there’s no law against it) but you’ll get a lot of attention if you do. 

You’ll have hundreds of people staring at you and taking photos of you all at once (I’m not joking) so avoid this unless you wanna know how Ariana Grande feels for a day.

Here’s exactly what I’d pack in terms of clothes:

• 3 x long skirts
• 5 x loose t-shirts
• 1 x loose cotton pants
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 5 pairs of socks

It’s also worth remembering that it’s really hot in India at all times of year. For that reason, I’d recommend wearing loose fitting, light clothing.

I made the mistake of wearing skinny jeans one day and boy did I regret that!

After that I stuck to long flowy skirts and I felt so much better. These ones would be absolutely perfect for India.

You can pair your long skirt with a loose t-shirt like this one that covers your shoulders. That’s the kind of outfit I wore on the daily in India.

If you’re heading to a more beachy destination like Goa then it’s a bit more common to wear swimsuits or shorts but I’d personally still cover up a bit to respect the local culture.

I’d also recommend bringing along one lightweight scarf or shawl that’s big enough to cover your head and shoulders.

There’s absolutely no requirement to wear a scarf in India but certain temples do require you to cover your shoulder/hair so it’s worth having one on you if you’re out sightseeing.

Most of the temples do have spares that you can borrow but it’s much nicer to have your own rather than borrow one that 1,000 other people have worn.

I also found that at one particular temple, all they had were these ugly bright orange scarves that I had to wrap around my hair. 

After that I made sure I had a scarf in my bag at all times. A scarf like this one would be perfect!

You can also buy a scarf when you get to India. They sell them all over the place and I actually ended up buying about 5 different ones as the colors and designs were all so beautiful.

Long Pajamas

I also recommend bringing a long pair of pajamas due to the mosquitoes.

I got bitten so much in India, particularly at night, and covering your skin is definitely the best way to prevent bites.

I did use a mosquito repellent but even then I still woke up covered in bites.

A pajama set like this would be perfect!

Clothing For Men

Men also tend to cover up more in India so you should bring clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Shorts are very uncommon in India.

Here’s what I’d recommend packing:

• 3 x loose pants
• 1 x pajamas

Wearing loose clothing will make you feel more comfortable in the heat. Avoid anything too tight fitting.

As with most countries, the ‘modesty rules’ tend to be more relaxed for men but it’s still pretty uncommon to see men wearing shorts in India.

You’ll want to bring along the comfiest pair of shoes that you own. I’d go for a comfy pair of sneakers like these .

Ideally they should be easy to slip on and off as when you’re sightseeing in India, many places including temples will ask you to remove your shoes.

Don’t bring your best pair of shoes as India is pretty dirty, especially the big cities like New Delhi and Mumbai. 

You’ll also want to ensure that they’re closed toe as the streets are dirty and sometimes not well constructed. Open toe shoes are just asking for a disaster in India!

I bought a brand new pair of shoes and after 3 weeks in India, they were ruined so I ended up just throwing them out.

Whilst you’re out sightseeing during the day, you’ll want a small bag to keep your belongings in.

I’d definitely recommend using a bag rather than just using your pockets as pickpocketing is common in India, especially in crowded places. 

You’ll already stick out like a sore thumb so keep your belongings safe in a bag.

I personally opted for a small side bag which I wore on the front so I could see it at all times. A bag like this one would be perfect as it’s anti theft (which is ideal for India).

For men, a bag like this would be ideal.

I’d also avoid backpacks as they’re easy for pickpockets to access. 

Remember that some people are really skillful at stealing and by the time you realize they’ve been in your bag, it’ll be too late.

Warm Clothing

If you’re planning on visiting northern India then you might want to bring a few warmer pieces of clothing as it can get chilly up there.

If you’re hiking through the Himalayas or heading up to Kashmir then pack a couple of jumpers .

Toilet Paper

This is something that I didn’t realize I’d need but I wish I had! Bring as much as you can fit in your case.

Many toilets in India are ‘squat toilets’ which are basically just holes in the ground that you do your business in. There’s no proper seat and definitely no toilet paper so it’s pretty icky.

They should have normal toilets in your hotel and most restaurants but I did come across squat toilets a few times when I was out and about.

I also found that even when I did find a regular Western-style toilet, for some reason, there often wasn’t any toilet paper there.

I’d recommend having some toilet paper or tissues in your bag at all times!!!  

It’s highly likely you’ll come across a squat toilet at least once (probably more) and they definitely won’t have toilet paper.

These toilet tissues are specifically designed for travel so you won’t have to carry around a big roll with you.

It’s probably a good idea to also bring some hand wipes and hand sanitizer along as well.

Dry Shampoo 

Dry shampoo is definitely not a necessity but it will come in handy for sure.

Hot water isn’t as commonplace in India as it is in other countries. In my entire 3 weeks in India, I never got to have a hot shower once.

If you’re staying in a fancy hotel then it probably won’t be an issue but if you stay in a homestay (like me) or a more basic hotel then hot water is unlikely.

I really didn’t enjoy having icy cold showers so dry shampoo was a great alternative on those days when I couldn’t face it as it kept me looking fresh.

Batiste dry shampoo is my holy grail. I’ve been using this stuff for over 10 years now (literally since I was in high school) and it’s never let me down.

Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is a must for anyone traveling to India. 

As you might know, India is pretty polluted and dirty so it’s good to have this in your bag at all times to keep you clean.

In particular, I often came across really unhygienic toilets whilst out sightseeing and I was so glad to have some hand sanitizer in my bag.

Tampons/pads

You can buy period products in India but I’d personally recommend bringing some with you if you can.

Pads are readily available across India but tampons are really hard to find. They’re just not very popular in India so most shops don’t sell them.

Mosquito Repellent

Unfortunately mosquitos are rampant in India and you will get bitten, a lot!

I got bitten so much when I visited (my legs were covered in bites) and that was even when I wore a repellent every day.

After a few days, I just gave up with the repellent as I was being bitten either way.

My advice is to bring along a good insect repellent and not just the cheapest one you can find as they just don’t work (trust me, I know).

Since my trip to India, I’ve found my holy grail insect repellent . I used it recently on my trip to Thailand and I literally didn’t get bitten once!! It’s also not sticky at all which I love.

I wish I’d had it when I went to India as it would have saved me soooooo much pain.

This one is definitely optional as it’s completely up to you. 

If you’re confident then rock the no-makeup look as you’ll feel so much better for it!

But if you’re like me and just need a little something to stop people asking if you’re ill then here’s my top picks:

• Tinted moisturizer – this one is really lightweight (you can barely tell it’s there) and evens out your skin tone nicely. I use it pretty much everyday.
• Waterproof mascara – this one is great as it won’t budge. It doesn’t matter how much you sweat, this baby will still be there at the end of the day.
• SPF face cream – regular sunscreen just feels so yucky on my face but this one feels just like a normal moisturizer (I wear it under the tinted moisturizer).
• Chapstick with SPF – don’t forget that your lips can get sunburnt too and the sun is really strong in India so protect them.

Other Toiletries

You can buy most toiletry items in India but I’d recommend bringing some with you just in case.

You’ll find some of the really big brands in India but most of them will be the more local brands so if you like using specific products, then bring them with you.

Toiletries to pack for India:

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Lip balm (ideally with SPF)

Travel Adaptors

We’ve all forgotten these once or twice and it’s always so annoying . 

My worst experience was when I arrived in Vienna without an adapter and ended up wasting 2 hours walking around searching for one.

There are 3 main plug types used in India – C, D & M. 

Type C is the one with 2 round pins whilst D & M have 3 round pins. It’s best to bring a universal adaptor like this one to ensure it works with any plug. 

Portable Charger

Unless you live in a neighboring country, your flight to India will probably be long.

I don’t know about you but my phone almost always runs out of charge on long travel days and that just can’t happen these days as we usually have all our tickets on our phones!

Another issue I came across in India is that even when I did find a plug socket, it often didn’t work. 

You also probably won’t have access to a plug socket if you’re traveling on a long bus ride or a sleeper train so bring a portable charger with you.

I’d take along a pack of tylenol and ibuprofen just in case you get a headache, period pains or any other type of issues.

You’ll also want to pack some Imodium as many travelers get what’s locally known as ‘Delhi belly’. 

I was lucky enough not to experience it on my trip but several people I was traveling with weren’t so lucky.

Also bring along any other prescription medications that you need to take as well.

It’s a shame that this has to be on the list but I would definitely recommend getting a padlock for your suitcase if it doesn’t have one built in.

Several items were actually stolen from my suitcase in New Delhi after I checked them in at the airport.

If I’d had a padlock on my case, this could have been prevented.

A Sleeping Bag

This one is only really necessary if you’re going backpacking or you’ll be spending a lot of time on sleeper trains or buses.

I spent a good 7 hours on a sleeper bus and it was so uncomfortable . I’d also add that it wasn’t the cleanest place either so I’d have felt a lot better if I had my own sleeping bag .

This sleeping bag folds up really well so it’s ideal for travel.

Travel Documents

These are the few items that you actually can’t live without as you won’t get very far without them.

Make sure you have your passport, visa, passport sized photos and your ID on hand when you arrive at the airport.

I’d recommend having at least 2 copies of your passport photo as you’ll need them to get a SIM card at the airport.

Notebook & Pen

This one’s not essential but I strongly recommend bringing one.

I had a notebook whilst I was in India and I often used it to write down Hindi words and phrases like how to say ‘how are you?’ in Hindi .

Some other girls that I knew had journals where they wrote all about their travels and adventures. A pretty notebook like this would be perfect as you’ll want to keep it forever.

I personally also took my MacBook with me which is where I wrote my journal but it was a bit annoying having to carry it around all the time and I was so worried that it would get stolen.

Unless you absolutely need it, I’d avoid taking a laptop. 

Your Phone 

Pretty obvious I know, I mean who is leaving home without their phone?!

You can buy an Indian SIM card when you arrive. I got mine at the airport that came with lots of data and it was pretty cheap.

Your phone can also double up as your camera so you don’t need to carry around an extra bit of tech (unless you’re wanting to take more professional photos).

If you’re bringing along a professional camera then don’t forget to bring some spare batteries and a spare SD card .

Your phone will also act as a flashlight just in case you experience a power cut (which you probably will, I did many times).

Earphones 

These are essential if you’re going to be traveling around a lot within the country. 

India is also super loud so it can be nice to just block out the noise and listen to your favorite song or podcast for a while.

I personally never go anywhere without my AirPods anymore. The battery just seems to last forever and they connect to my phone within seconds.

Theft is a bit of an issue in India so if you’re going to be using them often out and about, you might want to buy a cheaper pair of earphones like these and just use your AirPods in the hotel.

The sun can be bright in India so bring some sunglasses to stop yourself from squinting.

If you’re constantly squinting then it can give you a headache which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to explore the Taj Mahal.

You might not need them at certain times of year. For example, I visited India in September and, although it was super hot, it was overcast most days so I didn’t need them. 

The weather in India is almost always hot and humid so you’ll want to tie your hair back.

I tried curling my hair once during my India trip (for my trip to the Taj Mahal) and it lasted about 5 minutes. The heat just deflated it instantly.

I personally always use these spiral hair ties as they don’t leave any marks on your hair.

Ok so this isn’t exactly something you need to pack but it should definitely be part of your pre-India checklist.

I actually had to have 3 different vaccines before my trip to India. These were recommended to me by my doctor.

This kind of guidance changes all the time so it’s best to ask your doctor exactly what they recommend.

What Not To Bring To India

There’s a few things that I definitely wouldn’t bother bringing to India.

They’ll take up valuable space and unfortunately there is a risk that some things might get stolen.

Here’s what you should leave at home…

Apart from the essentials, I’d recommend leaving most of your valuables at home.

Try to avoid bringing expensive, flashy items that you don’t really need as you’ll likely make yourself a target to thieves.

If you do want to bring something like a camera or laptop then try to keep it out of sight whenever possible.

I took my MacBook with me when I visited and I always kept it inside a plain black case and inside my bag at all times. 

The only time I took it out was when I was in the hotel/back at my homestay.

Jewelry & Watches 

For the same reason as above, avoid wearing jewelry and watches where you can. 

Even if it’s not expensive, it may look like it and could make you a target for theft.

Costume jewelry that you can buy from shops like Forever 21 do look really good these days and many thieves won’t know the difference between a real diamond bracelet and a fake one.

Excessive Cash 

For the same reason, try to only take out the amount of money you actually need and keep your cash out of sight whenever possible.

There are plenty of ATMs in India so you can just withdraw a small amount each time.

Excessive Clothes 

I took way too many clothes with me when I traveled to India. If I did it again, I’d take half as much.

I personally think it’s easier to pack light and just rewear clothes. It’s easy to get your clothes washed in India as most hotels will offer a laundry service.

Clothes for India will take up a lot of space as there’s more material on each piece so it’s easier to take less.

You can also buy super cheap clothes when you get to India that will help you blend in with the locals. 

India Packing Checklist – Printable PDF

So you don’t have to keep referring back to this post, I’ve put together a complete India packing checklist which includes everything you need to pack. 

It’s a printable PDF and you can just tick-off each item as you pack it.

And that’s it!

Thanks for reading my ultimate India packing list which includes everything you should take to India.

If you’re currently planning your itinerary then check out my complete list of the best things to do in India . It includes so many ideas and places you might not have heard of.

Related Posts:

Learn more about the Traveller's Elixir Team .

Our complete packing list for India: Everything you need for an epic first trip.

• By Sarah Steiner
• Updated On April 20, 2024

Nothing can quite fully prepare you for the adventure that is India. But these tips and our packing list for India will get you started!

It is exactly as travellers describe it: a captivatingly kaleidoscopic assault on all the senses. 

There are brilliant bursts of colour. A cacophony of sounds (that believe it or not you will grow accustomed to and dare I say it; even miss when you leave).

There are wafts of spices and incense burning that is somehow (thankfully) counteracted (an attempt to be balanced by?) by pollution. And there is the taste of sweet Indian chai that no matter how many times you seek it out will never taste as satisfying as that first sweet sip…

This is India.

And it does need preparing for.

You need to be prepared to embrace what is India.  And for now; we can help with that. 

First; what kind of bag? 

The first step in packing for your India trip is to choose the right luggage and bags to bring with you.

Yes; your bags need to be big enough to bring home some souvenirs and treasures with you. But you’ll want to ensure that above all else you are comfortable and manoeuvrable for traveling in India.

You’ll need two items of luggage: 

• A day bag/day-pack
• Check-in bag

We’re going to explain all the ins and outs of packing for India below. 

About your ‘Day Pack’ (whichever bag you choose to carry on you every day)

It is best to choose a bag that zips closed and can be worn across your body so that you can see and feel it on you at all times.

For our travels over the last four years we have always carried a backpack as a day-pack. Many people opt for an over-body handbag style day-pack. And you can certainly do that.

We find – especially travelling with kids in India – that a backpack is the best option for us.

Our day-pack each day has a water bottle, our wallet (a small purse; not a large wallet – but more about that later) a scarf or light cardigan if needed; toilet paper and toiletries (essential for your India packing list) and it is a safe place to store a phone and camera while out and about.

We use a 28L backpack from Macpac (that has lasted us our entire travels so far!). And both Gavin and I carry the same size backpack as a day-bag.

Here is a complete updated packing list for what the kids carry in their day-packs .  

And read below about our daypack packing list (which honestly hasn’t changed much in four years of fulltime travel!). 

About your Main Bag (your check-in bag or main bag to pack everything you need for India).

For our full-time travel and adventures all around the world we travel with the same two backpacks the entire time.

Yup; two (large) backpacks.

The way we have it organised works like this:

• 75L Macpac Backpack: Gavin and Harry
• 75L Macpac Backpack: Sarah and Oscar

And the kids are responsible for whatever is in their small, day-backpack.  (This has a light fleece jumper; toys; iPad; book and their pens and journal).  

Everything else is in our two large backpacks.  

Now it is worth noting that I (Sarah) originally carried a 65L Macpac backpack for the first two years.

If you are just visiting India on a Group Trip then you likely won’t need that much baggage allowance. (Because remember we live full-time out of 75L Macpac each).

The weight of your check-in bag is important .  For our internal flight in India the included baggage allowance is 15KG .

And the style of bag that you choose to carry with you to India is also important.  

Obviously we don’t want anyone to go out and spend a fortune to get a brand new bag just for the trip. But we do have to be realistic and warn you that a hard-suitcase is not suitable for the style of travel we do in India.

We suggest a  large backpack  (an old one or second hand bag is absolutely fine and a great idea) or a  strong duffel bag or a soft, hybrid trolley bag.

It needs to be something you are comfortable managing yourself getting on and off trains and in and out of rickshaws and taxis.

We will obviously be there to help but it is a great idea to consider the style of luggage for your packing for India.

What’s in your daypack?

• Water bottle – for a short trip we always encourage a water bottle. (We usually buy a big bottle of water or a pack and decant it into two water bottles).
• Toilet paper
• Paracetamol
• Wet wipes and/or hand santiser
• USB charging cord and battery pack
• Wallet/money pouch
• A light scarf (buy this when you get there) 
• Reusable shopping bag

We do recommend hand sanitiser or wet-wipes to keep the germophobe in you sane.

And small denominations of cash to give tips to a porter or to pay a few rupees to the staff who man (and clean?) the toilets.

• Tip: Planning for travel in India with kids? There’s a bit more to it. Read all about our most useful day-pack items here .

A little bit of packing preparation for riding the trains in India

If you go to India and don’t ride the trains; we believe you are missing out on one of the real highlights.

The famous trains of India are a combination of exciting and relaxing in a means of transport that gives insight to the busy culture of the subcontinent. It’s a social and certainly memorable experience; but one that does require a bit of advance preparation and packing.

You need a small, accessible bag of toiletries (in your daypack) with: 

• Toilet paper (bring a roll) 
• Hand sanitiser
• Wet wipes 

And this is one of the main reasons you do need to consider what type of bag you are travelling with.

Sometimes getting on to the trains can be crowed and you don’t want to be lugging a hard-shell suitcase up onto a train carriage. It is simply not practical.

You need to be manoeuvrable, safe and comfortable as you move around.

Electronics – Packing list for India

Below are some basic electronics to add to your India packing list. But don’t forget that India is a subcontinent in itself and has one of the largest capital cities in the world (Delhi) with a huge international airport.

So if you have forgotten a charging cable or want to buy a plug-in charger it’s readily available all over the country.

• Portable charger
• USB charging cable
• Universal adapter

A portable charger is handy, especially for the overnight train.  And if you have a universal plug adapter this is ideal for at guesthouses and hotels. 

But once again, it is easy to buy a simple phone charging plug at the airport on arrival.  

The India plug sockets are designed for use with a 3 pin round plug (Type D).  

Health and medication

It’s always recommended to talk with your doctor before travelling overseas.  (We obviously can’t give qualified medical advice but can confidently tell you what we pack and recommend for India). 

Along with any specific medications at the time of travel; we carry some basic pain-killers and basic first aid items. 

• Anti-diarrhoea tablets
• Rehydration sachets 
• Antiseptic cream
• Tweezers/small nail scissors

If you forget rehydration sachets or anti-diarrhoeal tablets they are available in India and easy to find.

With time to plan ahead however, we definitely recommend these as part of your travel kit…

(These are things that you are much better to have and not need than to need and not have!).

Clothes – Packing list for India

Here is a what is in our packing list for India clothes-wise.

We pack light and truthfully if you’ve forgotten something you can buy it there.

It’s easy and cheap to buy clothes in India and I know I always make sure to leave room in my bag for several (at least) kurta tops…

• 2x light, loose trousers (modest)
• 2x long-sleeve top/shirt
• 2x tops/t-shirts
• 1x dress/skirt (something you feel comfortable in the evenings)
• Light pyjamas/sleepwear 
• Fleece or cardigan* 
• Light rain jacket (pack-a-mac)
• Jandals/sandals

*This is for the desert safari.

• Tip: It DOES get cold in the desert overnight and this was a shock for us the first time we went!

We have been twice more since then and felt more prepared/qualified to give specific desert-safari-packing advice.

And on that note; if you have a light merino/thermal top I recommend bringing that with you just for the overnight in the desert.

For the overnight trip we only take a daypack each with your phone, camera, and something warm to sleep in. (Realistically you actually sleep in what you are wearing plus add a layer or two for overnight as the temperature does drop significantly).

After breakfast and the ride back to the village we will be home to the guesthouse for a warm shower and a relaxed afternoon of your choice!

In India, most men and women wear Kurtas on a daily basis. These are long, loose tunic-like shirts and they come in bright and colourful designs.

Kurtas can be purchased all over India for affordable prices and are a great way to be modest and fashionable while traveling in India.

Let’s talk about shoes…

It is a good idea to bring a pair of sandals with you to India because of the warm weather and the fact that you may have to remove your shoes to enter temples and other religious sites.  

And since you will be walking in these sandals make sure they are comfortable and that you feel safe navigating the streets in them. (Make sure to break them in before you arrive!).  

We know our fellow Kiwis are fond of jandals but if they are going to be the shoes you wear on a day-to-day basis we recommend sandals with more support.  

Sneakers (walking shoes)

Along with sandals, it is also a good idea to bring some proper shoes for days that will be filled with exploring markets or walking through ancient ruins.

As a family we have a sort of unwritten rule for travel days (days we take trains or planes or major modes of transport) that we wear our sneakers. It makes us all feel safer and more comfortable for busy days and navigating public transport.

Lightweight sneakers should be perfect for your adventures in India!

There is nothing in particular to mention for toiletries aside from the above train-riding toiletry kit.

Just pack the basics and make sure you have a small toiletry case that is accessible for the overnight train and/or a toothbrush for our camel safari in the desert…

• Shampoo (small)
• Razor 

Aside from nervous and stomach-related questions; one of the most-asked questions about travel and packing for India is whether we take a towel.

Actually no; we take two small travel towels between our family of four. But that is more so because we travel onwards.

Would I recommend a towel for a specific packing list for India? No. It’s a pain to dry.

The guesthouses and hotels we are staying in will all have towels.

More about doing laundry and washing clothes below. 

All you really need is your passport and your money. However it does pay to carry a copy of your passport and your travel insurance.

We make it a habit to carry a copy of each of these in a separate place to our passports.

• Driving license
• Photocopy of passport 
• Copy of travel insurance
• Document wallet

As far as carrying money and the type of wallet you travel with; that’s a personal choice but we recommend a small coin purse.

It’s much less stress to pull out a small purse and grab a few rupees for a rickshaw than to be wrestling with a large leather wallet with all your cards and cash on display.

How do you get laundry done? Are there laundromats in India? 

Washing clothes and laundry in India is pretty straight forward.

Most guesthouses and hotels offer a laundry service that will either charge a fixed amount per KG of washing or per item. This is only a small fee and they will wash, dry and fold your clothes and return them to you in 24 hours.

And I have to confess we carry a small jar of washing powder with us so that we can keep up with handwashing smalls and not feel such urgency to pause and wait for laundry service.  (It’s worth it; just trust me on that one!). 

Some FAQ about your packing list for India

Before we left; I wanted answers.

What on EARTH do we need for travel to India? HOW will we carry it? Is two pairs of socks enough? And do we need a towel?

I needed a packing list for India. 

Here are some of the most FAQ that we had prior to leaving for fulltime travel; and some of the questions that pop up as we plan to share the adventure of travel in India with you!

What kind of bag should I take for travel in India? 

We suggest a  large backpack  (an old one or secondhand bag is absolutely fine and a great idea) or a  strong duffel bag .  

It needs to be something you are comfortable managing yourself getting on and off trains and in and out of rickshaws and taxis.  

How modest is the dress code expected to be for women? 

As well as considering the convenience of your packing list for India it’s equally important to consider the type of clothing that is appropriate to wear in India.

It’s not the type of place where you can rock up and stroll around in a bikini or short shorts. It’s not a resort-type holiday. This is an adventure and one of the most rewarding aspects of travel in India is learning about the culture.

Albeit dress code standards have changed in recent years but regardless of changing fashions the reality is that how you dress in India will affect how you are perceived by locals.

We always travel with the idea that ‘you get out what you put in’ – in other words, if you are respectful in the way you dress then others will respect you back.

India is a mostly conservative country and from a woman’s point of view it often it does feel male-dominated.  

Here are some tips for dressing for travel in India that will help you feel comfortable for your travels: 

• Cover your shoulders, cleavage and thighs.
• Avoid wearing thin spaghetti strap tops, mini-skirts or shorts.
• Opt for loose-fitting shirts, t-shirts, long dresses, knee-level or below-knee shorts, pants and skirts.
• Clothing made from linen or a linen blend is good to wear in hot weather.
• Consider your surroundings – modern cities like Mumbai and New Delhi are more liberal and relaxed when it comes to clothing than smaller towns and villages like Jaisalmer.  
• If in doubt, always err on the side of modest when choosing your outfits – it’s easy to buy a light kurta top to wear on your travels and we look forward to showing you! 

Can men wear shorts? 

Technically yes. There are no rules or specific regulations for male tourists in India with regards to shorts or trousers.

However India is a modest country and like anywhere else in the world you get out what you put in; if you dress modestly and respectfully you will be received with respect as well.

We recommend loose fitting, comfortable and light trousers in your packing list for India.

Jeans are honestly too hot and too heavy for this style of travel in India (especially figuring out how to wash and dry them).

Gavin wears easy-dry Kathmandu Flight Trousers that are travel-trousers and are smart and light to carry (and don’t need an iron).  

Do I need to take a towel to India? 

No. Every guesthouse and hotel we stay at will have towels available and it saves the worry of figuring out how to dry and re-pack yours. 

Are there laundromats available for washing? 

Do i need a mask .

It is no longer a requirement in India to wear a mask for public transport or in public spaces.  (We still carry one in our daypacks now; just in case!). 

How warm is it?  How cold does it get? 

The post-monsoon season in September, October and November in India is the start of the tourist season for the country.

During these months the rains get less frequent and the weather gets gradually cooler and more comfortable.

It’s recommended to add to your packing list for India for this season: 

• A light rain jacket/pack-a-mac
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen (especially for the desert)

And quick-dry and light clothing is always best for your India packing list.

In the North Indian cities such as Delhi, Jaipur and Agra you can expect comfortable days and cool nights for October, November and December.

How do I charge my phone in India? 

Some guesthouses in India might have USB ports however it is best not to rely on this.

If you have a universal adapter plug that is a great idea to bring, otherwise you can buy a wall plug at the airport or even a budget version at a convenience store or hole-in-the-wall type kiosk.

Don’t stress about electronics in your packing list for India. The country is huge and you can buy a charger anywhere.

What kind of shoes do I wear? 

We take two pairs of shoes each in our travels. One pair of lightweight sneakers that we always wear for ‘travel-days’ (days we take a train or plane). And one pair of comfortable sandals.

We all wear our sandals on a daily basis around India. (It can be done in jandals(!) but we really recommend some strong sandals that will keep you comfortable).

A few other essentials for you India packing list…

And then there are a few other important items to add to your planning and packing list for India…

• Patience:  Be patient; have an open mind and accept that it’s all part of the adventure.
• Humility:  India will shock you with impossible-to-overlook contrasts.  There’s poverty and opulence and everything in between.  But travel does wonders for teaching us all the value of humility. 
• A sense of humour:  Travel teaches us a lot of things and especially that we get out of this life what we put in! Try to relax; accept that temperatures will soar and the traffic of the cities will defy chaos.  Believe that each meal and interaction is in fact ‘very, very good’ and remember to roll with it.  

This is India and it is unlike anywhere you have been before. 

And now with these tucked humbly away and your luggage packed thoughtfully you are as ready as can be to embrace the adventure that is India.

It can be daunting. But if you are ready to travel with an open mind then India will be a journey like no other.

Where we stayed in India

There is a little bit more planning before finalising your packing list for India. And that is where to stay in India!

Here are some of the places we have stayed during our travels in India that we can recommend.

• Kochi:   Hotel Abad Plaza [good location next to mall with supermarket. Multiple restaurants on site; huge buffet breakfast. Swimming pool. Note this hotel is not in the old city of Kochi ]. 
• Varanasi:   Hotel Temple on Ganges [great location; basic rooms and restaurant. Close to Assi Ghat – good location to explore Varanasi from]. 
• Jaisalmer:   The Wanderlust Guesthouse [AMAZING guest-house! We loved staying here and can highly recommend. Great rooms; rooftop restaurant overlooking the fort; awesome camel safaris!
• New Delhi:   Hotel Hari Piorko [good location in the heart of the Main Bazaar, Delhi; close to restaurants and train station. No view from rooms]. 

• Kolkata:   Hotel Golden Palace  [close to New Market with very friendly service and a great in-house room service restaurant]. 
• Mumbai:   Gulf Hotel [good location in Colaba few mins walk to Gateway of India. Basic rooms (and very old elevator) and very basic breakfast included. Also  lots  of (questionably so?) mirrors]. 
• Jodhpur:   Raj Mandir Boutique Homestay  [good location in Blue City, spacious room with small balcony inside Haveli style home. Tiny little doors, lots of unique decor and artefacts].
• Jaipur:  Jaipur Haveli  [incredible old haveli home in heart of Jaipur. Highly recommend; beautiful rooms; great attention to detail and very friendly staff and owners]. 
• Agra:   Aman Homestay  [very friendly family-run homestay with rooftop views of The Taj Mahal. Great rickshaw driver service and home cooked meals].
• Delhi:  Smyle Inn  [extremely basic hotel in small back alley. Very friendly, helpful staff and simple breakfast included. Just off Main Bazaar]. 

What else can we say about India?

We LOVE India and can only highly, highly recommend you embrace the chaos; embrace India; and get ready for what can truly only be described as the adventure of a lifetime…

More about travel planning for India and beyond…

These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel. 

• Booking.com  – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally. 
• Skyscanner – This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.  
• GetYourGuide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
• SafetyWing  – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country. Make sure to add travel insurance to your packing list for India!
• World Nomads   – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). 

Read more about India

• Train travel in India: A complete guide.
• Five days in Kerala: The best introduction to India.
• The Sacred River Ganges: Two days in Varanasi with kids.
• A desert camel safari in Jaisalmer: Not once (but twice).
• Celebrating Holi in India with kids.
• A bread bucket-list: 12 Indian breads you need to try.

Wondering about itineraries?  Questions about schooling?  See our Family Travel Guides and FAQ here . 

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4 thoughts on “Our complete packing list for India: Everything you need for an epic first trip.”

Great summary – thanks very much. I am a seasoned traveller (72 countries and counting) but have never been to India, and am not travelling with kids, but still took loads of good tips from your article ahead of a departure there on Tuesday. You have a great simple informative style of writing – thank you!

Thanks Duncan! Great to hear from you. Thank you for your very kind comment. And have a fabulous time in India! (Ps. If you want contacts for a brilliant driver in Delhi and Jaipur send us a message on Insta). ?

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How do everyone greetings from tamraght morocco, long time since you been, great bits of advice here for everyone to remember, stay safe and happy trails

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Part Travel, Part Misadventures, Part Documentary

India, the most unique travel destination and the land of the Himalayas. I document my solo travels, hikes and bicycle touring journeys in the remote stretches of India.

The Solo Essential India Packing Checklist: What To Bring For Travel In India?

When I travelled to India for 3 months on a solo trip, I had researched extensively to find the essentials that were needed that will help me traverse through India in all extremes.

I remember panicking and double checking my list to ensure that I was prepared to travel to the toughest places in India.

Whether I was hiking in the Himalayas, backpacking in India or visiting the spiritual temples of India, I needed to ensure that the list of items that I was dragging along was worth every ounce of weight, and worth it in every emergency situation.

The duality of the extremes of jumping from -30 degrees to 40 degrees in peak Delhi humidity required a lot of thinking, but beyond essentials, I wanted to pack clothing that had colour and character.

Regardless of the reasons, you’ll find that from this post that an packing checklist to India is godsent when you need to be 100% assured on what to bring on your travels to India. For all of India’s flaws, India is still about beautiful landscapes, scents, sights and people.

When experiencing and buying things in India, it’s about the heavy strong street scents, the chai cup at every ‘dhaba’ (roadside restaurant), colourful scarves, and it’s also about the hills you climb, the people you meet, the battles you overcome, the swamps that engulf you, and the temples that awe you.

Disclosure: Do note that some of the links below are affiliate links and every purchase you make here will help support me through the commission I earn at no extra cost on your side. I only provide unbiased and completely honest recommendations. Read more about the site’s privacy policy.

Also Read: Solo Travel in Northern India: Why Travel to India Alone?

What To Bring to India? The Ultimate India Packing List

1. osprey backpack tempest 40 women backpack.

It is India, and you know you need a sturdy backpack that’ll be able to take all the wear and tear with all that moving around. You’ll see me carrying my sleeping bag at the bottom holder, plus it has a great holding for trekking shoes or your sandals, and the bottom of the pack provides easy access to all your garments. Since it is 40L, you do not need to worry about packing too-much or too-less, because it hits the sweet spot. View on Amazon.com

2. Sawyer Mini Walter Filter

This is perhaps the single most important product travelling in India. With the water situation so precarious, it was essential to buy a water filter that’ll help you in every emergency situation. While I did not bring this with me when I was in India, and I bought aquatabs instead but this was a game changer when I took it to rough areas in Central Asia. It has served me well, and this small, light, compact makes an excellent unit that won’t break the bank. This filter cleans anything from questionable garden hose water to murky lake water into perfectly clear and crisp to the taste drinking water. View on Amazon.com

3. Power Adapter

With power trips so frequent in India, you want to ensure all your devices are charged in one place. The best way is to get an international adapter or universal charger to ensure you have got your phone, power back and all your other electronics stored in one place. View on Amazon.com

4. Cool Neck Wallet

This is essentially what you need when you’re busy navigating the busy streets of India. You have absolutely no time to watch what’s at your back and this is when a useful neck wallet to stay “incognito” making it very difficult for pickpocketers to outsmart you.  I usually don't like things hanging around my neck, but I actually forgot I had this on as it was super comfy. View on Amazon.com

5. Travel Insurance

When you go to a faraway land where the risk is high from getting your belongings stolen to getting involved in adventurous journeys, you can’t take any risks or chances without assuring that you have purchased a comprehensive insurance plan. With WorldNomads, you’re essentially covered for all kinds of journeys with proper health and financial support. Don’t leave this for the very last minute because I almost forgot about insurance and only purchased it few hours before my trip! View plans on World Nomads

6. Packing Cubes

I am a big fan of packing cubes and honestly can’t live without them. It saves time keeping everything organised and helps to find exactly what you’re looking for. Pants in one, tops in another, undies and small things in a smaller one and more. View on Amazon.com

7. Shawls & Scarves

Those long journeys passing the higher Himalayas or even visiting spiritual shrines will make this versatile cashmere part of your identity when you’re in India. It's large enough to wear as a shawl/wrap, but also could be used as a scarf or even a blanket when you need to cosy up. You may end up buying more shawls and of different prints and colours in India but it is always good to start with one basic one at the beginning of your journey. View on Amazon.com

8. Travel Journal

There’s nothing more important than penning your detailed stories, insights, thoughts in a beautiful travel size journal. it is a great way to get out your thoughts or feelings onto paper on rough days when things just don’t go according to your plans. It is not about getting any blank book, but carefully selecting one that becomes an extension of yourself. View on Amazon.com

9. Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

It can be pretty annoying to carry bottles and tubes of deet spray that stains your clothes and leave a lingering smell on your travels to India. These mosquito repellent bracelets are ingenious, eco-friendly and are so cool to carry on your hikes to any mozzy-infested zones. View on Amazon.com

10. Microfiber Travel Towel

Quality is everything for a quick drying travel towel. It is so lightweight and dries ridiculously quick. This is perfect for backpacking in India. You can pick a large size towel as it was big enough to wrap around my entire body. View on Amazon.com

11. Sunglasses

I remember hiking a mountain in the Himalayas and completely forgot to wear my sunnies and I got severely snow-blinded for two days. It was the worst and made me regret not wearing it when I had it with me. Whatever it is, get a good a polarized sunglasses that is built for sports or any rough environment. View on Amazon.com

12. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Music has a way of transporting you to a different realm. Whether it is using it to tune-out the cacophony of noises in bustling India or to gaze into the horizon on your trails in the mountains, a noise-cancelling headphones just makes your trip more wholesome and meaningful. You will find peaceful existence made for you in noisy city! View on Amazon.com

13. Sony Mirrorless Camera

If it is a one in a lifetime experience, do not rely on your phone to capture the best photography. Invest in an entry-level mirrorless camera from the Sony range. It did wonders to my shots and portraits when I was travelling in the remote towns of Ladakh, Uttarakhand and Himachal. A camera like the Sony A6000 has nothing to do with age as it clearly doesn’t hurt its performance and the best part is that its price has been knocked down to a few levels. View on Amazon.com

14. Mini Gorillapod

This acts like a tripod in places where its impossible to get a real tripod into especially when you’re travelling. I used this to do stargazing when there was zero light pollution in the mountains. You can even bend all three legs and use it as a selfie stick. This is the perfect pod to do run and gun shooting for vlogs as well. View on Amazon.com

15. Hanging Toiletry Bag

When you’re travelling, it can get such a pain to have piecemeal bags scattered everywhere. This hanging toiletry bag is perfectly designed to put your toiletry in accessible, easy-to-find places. It is convenient and packs up nicely and you don't have to pick anything out of your gear for your morning trip to the bathroom. View on Amazon.com

16. Pepper Spray

India and safety don’t go hand in hand which is why getting a pepper spray is the single most important step women could do to equip themselves! I have also worn a fake ring to avoid attention and getting a pepper spray as a key chain was perfect for me to whip it out should things get out of hand. View on Amazon.com

17. Menstrual Cup (Women)

If you want to experience an alternative and sustainable approach when menstruating, the Pixie cup works well when backpacking in India instead of carrying tons of pads. The Pixie Cup can be reused over and over for 10 years, making it far more sustainable than tampons or traditional pads. I do alternate between this and a pad as I am still getting used to this but do give this a try if you can! View on Amazon.com

What You Shouldn’t Bring and What You Can Get in India?

Do not bring fancy jewelry and ones that will make you a target. You will find plenty of opportunities to purchase ethnic jewelry as well so make space for that.

India has a variety of clothing from kurtis, to embroidered blouses that are perfect to blend in and enjoy the splash of colours that Indian ethnic wear brings. Do bring enough clothes that covers your modesty but feel free to play by ear and be respectful of cultures in villages and spiritual places.

Need a simcard? Here are 3 easy ways to get a simcard in India . The other alternative is to purchase an eSimcard like Airalo in advance — this makes it easier to get instant connectivity.

You can buy all your other liquid toiletries in India from face wash to shampoo as they are pretty affordable.

Bring enough cash to last you for a month but you can bring it in USD or your preferred currency and visit banks to make the change. Do not bring too much as it is safe to use the available ATMs throughout India.

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Everything you need to pack for a trip to India

To step off the train in Jaipur after a long morning’s journey from Delhi, I inch my way closer to the exit packed with passengers trying to dismount and board all at once. Carrying a 50L backpack, as well as small daypack strapped to the front of my chest, makes maneuvering through the crowd of women in bright silk saris and men in freshly pressed pants a challenge.

On the platform – awash with the smells of rosewater perfume, deep-fried snacks and burning brush in the distance – is when I really start to sweat under the unforgiving midday sun and the weight of all my belongings sinks into my shoulders. I consider that perhaps I didn’t need four pairs of shoes or as many tops as I packed.

After two months in India – 5 weeks spent backpacking Rajasthan and 3 weeks as part of Intrepid’s South India Revealed trip – I confess: I over-packed.

If you want to pack efficiently for India, throw out all the rules you usually follow. Here’s what you really need for a comfortable trip through the subcontinent.

My Intrepid group at Mysore Palace

During peak fall and winter season, temps in Rajasthan hover between 30-35 degrees Celsius and there’s little rain. The south, especially the coast, is thick with humidity and temperatures sway more wildly reaching mid 30s during the day and dropping to as low as mid 20s after dark. In summer the the north of India, especially the western desert can top 45 and the south is drenched from monsoons.

READ MORE: THE MAGIC OF MOVING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE IN INDIA

Long sleeves to beat the heat

It seems counter-intuitive, but lightweight, long sleeves do a better job of protecting from the sun and heat than short sleeves or tank tops. Throw a button-down shirt in your backpack, too. It’s easy to pull it on over a t-shirt or tank top before entering temples.

Loose fitting and breathable clothing

Leave the skinny jeans at home. It’s far more comfortable to wear long skirts, loose-fitting pants, and airy t-shirts.

Want to go shopping? Kurtas for men and women (tunics that range from calf-length to shorter mid-thigh versions) are extremely easy to find, ultra affordable, and comfortable.

Breathable clothing for coconut-buying

You’ll see plenty of women all over the country wearing a range of colors and styles over leggings, and most men donning over jeans or khakis. For women, I highly recommend bringing breathable running/yoga leggings to wear under long t-shirts or tunics.

Additional packing tips from Ashish Verma, Intrepid Travel’s Contracting Manager in India:

Ear plugs in noisy cities are a must-pack. A torch and a microfiber travel towel are also a good idea.

Dress modestly

Long skirts or pants along with modest tops will blend in far more, and are required when visiting temples. Remember, both men and women need to cover shoulders and knees. In addition, if you are visiting a Jain temple, no leather is allowed.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES IN INDIA

Dressing respectfulyl in Bijaipur

Actually, bring two. There will be times when you’ll want to drape it around your shoulders and arms to enter temples and other times when it comes in handy as a wrap for cool nights, or even to loosely put over your face during tuk-tuk rides in dust or smog.

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Comfortable shoes

Roads are dirty, cow dung is everywhere in crowded cities and you’ll likely be climbing stone ruins at some point. Dark-colored sneakers are the most practical and comfortable. Throw in a pair of sturdy flip-flops or Birkenstocks for shorter walks or coastal towns or days when there are temple visits. (For temple visits, you need to remove shoes before entering.)

If you go to India and don’t ride the train , you’re doing it wrong. It’s a memorable and social experience, but one that requires a little bit of pre-planning. Bring a small bag of toiletries, toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and snacks.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OVERNIGHT TRAINS IN INDIA

Electronics

Bring a portable charger, especially for long bus rides. Extra camera batteries, as it’s much harder to find them in India than it is back home. And don’t forget a plug adapter and even an extra phone charging cord. It was so hot on my trip I had one partially melt in the sun.

Depending on the area and time of year, mosquitoes can range from slight nuisance to serious problems.

Bug spray is a necessity when outdoors!

Apply liberally as the smog often masks the intensity of the sun.

Dry shampoo

Manage expectations and India is delightful. There’s not always hot water at all times of the day. Even if the water is warm, there might not be enough for a full hair wash. Dry shampoo is your best beauty friend.

Always consult your travel doctor before a trip to ensure you have the right vaccines and any necessary emergency medication or asthma inhalers. In addition, bring over-the-counter remedies for Delhi belly, headaches, cold medication, and rehydration powder in case of dehydration.

READ MORE: HOW TO AVOID DELHI BELLY IN INDIA

One of the best tips I ever got from a travel pro was to carry Vicks VapoRub to help with congestion resulting from poor air quality and to smear a tiny patch under your nose in times of potent odors (think the side streets of Varanasi).

Sensory overload in Varanasi

Or three. When not zig-zagging through ancient ruins or grand palaces, there will be downtime on buses and trains. A good book is a welcome companion.

My fellow passengers chuckled, but I always carry a few snacks like biscuits or chips and a sturdy spork to ensure I have clean utensils if a sudden street food craving comes on.

READ MORE: 10 QUESTIONS WITH ONE OF INTREPID’S AMAZING LOCAL LEADERS, ANKITA

Water bottle

Plastic is a problem all over the world, and you’ll especially notice it in trash heaps in India. There are several locations and hotels where you can refill a water bottle – your guide will let you know the safest source for drinking water.

Keeping hydrated with chai

The ultimate packing list:

After reassessing my trip, here’s what I’d highly recommend in terms of quantity of clothing – keep in mind you can do laundry during the trip.

• 1 long skirt (to cover knees)
• 1 maxi dress
• 1 pair loose or khaki pants (2-3 pairs for men in lieu of skirts/dresses)
• 1 long-sleeve, cotton button-down shirt
• 2 tunics (bought in India— 1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)
• 1-2 pairs quick-dry leggings/yoga pants
• 5 pairs underwear
• 5 pairs quick-dry socks
• 2 bras (1 sports bra, 1 regular)
• 2 scarves (or buy them in India)
• 1 hoodie or lightweight sweater
• 1 bathing suit
• 1 pair sneakers
• 1 pair flip flops or walking sandals
• 1 pair shorts (only if you are in the south and plan on spending time on the beach)

Now you’ve got the gear, it’s adventure time. Check out Intrepid’s range of small group tours in India.

(Group photos courtesy of Kristin Amico. All others courtesy of Intrepid Travel.)

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Kristin Amico

In early 2017 I quit my full-time job, gave up my Boston apartment, sold most of my belongings, and bought a one-way ticket overseas. I'm currently spending a year living nomadically and eating my way across Europe and Asia. My food and travel writing has appeared on Intrepid Travel, Fodor's, Paste Magazine, and The Kitchn. Follow my adventure on Instagram @Kristinamico.

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INDIA Packing list: Everything you need for your India trip (2021)

Planning a trip to India and not sure what to take? Our complete India packing list covers all you need to take to India, advice on packing and what to leave at home!

This post  contains  compensated affiliate links – find out more in our disclosure here . 

Complete Travel to India Packing List

Over our last few trips to India we’ve become very familiar with what we’re likely to need, what we never use (and therefore should leave behind!) and how to pack efficiently for travels around the Indian subcontinent.

For a country as large as India, with different climates, cultures and activities packing for all eventualities remains a challenge at times, and the temptation to overpack can be strong.

And then there’s the matter of shopping. All the colourful fabrics, sarees and souvenirs – what to do? (Fear not, we have tips on that).

This guide to packing for travel in India looks at what luggage we find best for travel in India, what essentials we recommend for everyone, what to leave behind (what you won’t need in India).

Someone once said that the less “stuff” you take with you, the more fun you’ll have on your trip.

Be that as it may, we do recommend that you travel as light as you can for your trip to India. For some people that means carry-on only, or simply a smaller size of checked baggage. Travel in India invariably involves some hauling of baggage on and off transport, possibly down unpaved streets and on/off boats or up steps. So the lighter your bag, the easier it will be to move without feeling too weighed down.

ⓘ TIP: Planning a trip to India? Join our free India Travel Facebook group here !

The Most Important Things to Pack for India

• Your Passport! With 6 months validity.
• Travel Insurance – a must! We use and recommend World Nomads. Get a quote here .
• Your (e)visa, required by most nationalities to visit India. Official website here .

Our Favourite Luggage for Travel in India

Our tried and tested favourite luggage for India is the Osprey Farpoint 40(L) Backpack .

We love it for a few reasons:

• It’s great quality, has been hauled on and off all sorts of transport and four years and many trips later it’s still going strong.
• It’s front open meaning a) no rummaging around for things in the bottom b) It’s easy to pack/unpack c) It has lockable zips
• It forces us to pack light! I tend to keep packing until the bag is full, so having a small backpack forces me to be minimalist!
• Related to the above – the zips are very strong! Even when I have to sit on my bag to close it (don’t judge me) the zips have remained strong and intact.
• It’s handluggage size meaning you could avoid checking it in with many airlines.

The Farpoint also comes in larger sizes if you are looking for a slightly larger pack.

Check prices for the Osprey Fairmont 40 here

If you’re looking for a suitcase / wheeled luggage then we recommend Samsonite’s Spark Eco Spinner range which is made from recycled PET plastic. Go for a small size / carry on to keep your load light.

Check prices for the Samsonite Spark Eco Spinner Carry on here

For shopping in India, we recommend packing a foldable duffle bag such as this one , which you can then bring home as an extra checked bag – it makes sense to buy your souvenirs towards the end of your trip if you can, do avoid having to carry an extra bag around India already.

Some people swear by packing cubes . We don’t use them personally (we roll our clothes to pack them in tight) they can be handy for separating out your clothes and keeping things tidy.

Packing for India – What to Pack for India Essentials

Electronics to take to india.

• Power Bank for long bus/train/car journeys
• Multi-region adaptor with surge protect (must-have to protect your devices against power surges which can happen in India)
• Noise cancelling headphones for your flight and to cut out noise when you’ve had enough!
• Unlocked phone for use in India to get a local Indian simcard. If your phone is locked, consider buying a cheap unlocked one .
• Spare batteries for Steripen & your other gadgets if they are not regular size batteries
• Amazon Kindle or other reader – avoids the weight of lots of books
• Your camera (if you have a valuable one, make sure it’s insured !)

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Health & Cosmetics to Pack for India

• Water purification method (eg Steripen   / Grayl read more about the different options here )
• Spare water filters for your bottle or batteries for Steripen
• Hand Sanitiser
• Washbag / Toiletry bag
• Biodegradable wipes (please don’t use the non biodegradable ones as they end up straight in rivers/the ocean/a random field).
• Body Soap & Shampoo Bar (we recommend organic as not all waste water in India gets treated thoroughly). Solid bars take up a lot less space and weight than liquid washes / shampoos, and we love the Ayurvedic & Mysore Sandal soaps you can buy in India.
• Toothbrush & Paste
• Natural filter sunscreen
• Coconut Oil for use as after sun or moisturiser
• Peppermint essential oil – great for when you want something nice smelling and can be helpful in soothing stomachs, too.
• Mosquito repellant (if travelling during monsoon, apply this liberally as Dengue is a risk in cities). Malaria is present in India but generally low risk, with anti-malarial medicines not advised – if in doubt, check with your doctor prior to travel.
• Menstrual Cup or Period Underwear / Resusable Pads . (Please avoid using sanitary pads in India due to plastic waste disposal issues. Tampons are not available outside of cities.)
• Charcoal tablets for settling the stomach
• Rehydration salts (ORS) (or buy Electral at any pharmacy in India – we swear by it)
• First Aid: We recommend taking plasters and antiseptic cream /gel or Dettol.
• Any prescription medicines.
• Antibiotics are widely available in India without prescription, but you can bring a broad spectrum antibiotic with you if you prefer.
• Lots of makeup and India don’t tend to go well together – humidity means it slides off, or encourages dirt to stick to your skin. Go au naturel if you can.
• Humid weather tends to encourage fungal infections – if you are prone to these, bring your medicine with you ( Tea Tree oil works well).
• Check with your doctor for recommended vaccinations and any other precautions you should take for travel to India.

What to Wear in India Essentials

• Ladies, you won’t need high heels unless you’re planning on partying
• Light colour, cotton tops / t-shirts / tunics
• Thin/breatheable leggings for underneath long tunics / Kurtas or loose linen or cotton pants/trousers
• Cotton underwear is best in the heat
• Jeans for cooler weather or city wear
• Chinos for men / Loose fitting pants / trousers for ladies / long skirts
• Yoga clothes (loose fitting, avoid Lycra and tiny tops)
• A warm layer for northern India in winter (and AC buses/trains) such as a fleece or thick hoodie
• Thin rain layer if travelling in monsoon
• Comfortable shoes for walking around cities (slip on/off = ideal)
• Flip flops for chilling out in
• Swimwear if you’re staying in hotels with pools or heading to the beach

READ MORE in our full guide to What to Wear in India here .

Womens’ Tunic

Womens’ Linen Pants

TIP – ladies – don’t bother bringing lots of floaty resort dresses unless you’ll be staying a while in Goa or at fancy resorts. I personally always get tempted by these but never end up wearing them! You also don’t need dressy clothes unless you’ll be staying in top end hotels, attending social functions / events, or are planning to party.

ⓘ TIP:   Travel Insurance is a must for India – we use and recommend World Nomads – Get your quote here !

Accessories / Kit to Pack for Travel in India

• Mosquito net (for monsoon season)
• Sleeping sheet / Sheet sleeping bag
• Headtorch / flash light
• Refillable Water Bottle
• Bamboo straws & cutlery
• Stojo collapsible coffee cup
• Re-usable shopping bag (cotton/canvas)
• Bag for laundry
• Cross-body secure purse / handbag for ladies
• Padlock(s) (for your baggage and hostel lockers) and a cable if you want to be able to secure your luggage on trains etc.

Other Things to Pack for India

• Journal for writing about your travels in
• A good book to read
• Travel Pillow
• A good playlist on your phone!
• Your Lonely Planet / Guidebook

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Read more about travel in India on Soul Travel India:

Have you travelled to India? What item wouldn’t you leave home without? Let us know in the comments below.

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Travel Genes

Endless Discoveries

The Perfect India Packing List – 100 Travel Essentials for India

Ultimate guide to india packing list – 100 travel essentials.

Since I started organizing India Endless Discoveries Tours the most common question I get to asked is what to pack for India trip especially by all the women members of the group. Now this question at first amazed me as I was hoping to be asked about how to avoid Delhi Belly or how safe is it to travel solo in India for women. But the question for what to pack and what NOT to pack was pretty new to me. Being a man who can travel in just 1 shorts and 2 t-shirts for the entire trip, the packing dilemma was a total unheard phenomenon for me.

But I was wrong! When I discussed the question of the perfect packing list for India with my wife Shreya, I realised it’s not so easy to decide what to pick and what to leave behind. Based on her recommendations & many tips of the members of my previous tours, I am presenting this near perfect India packing list for travelers to India.

The majority of India is hot and humid except the hilly north area so you need clothes that will keep you cool, but it still has conservative standards when it comes to body hugging or revealing clothes. All we can request you is to dress modestly especially outside major cities. Wear comfortable, loose clothing that covers your shoulders / knees / cleavage. That way it will be easier for you to mingle with the local crowd and reduce any unwanted attention.

As with any trip, pack as little as possible.

Travel Documents

• Passport with at least 6 months validity after your dates of travel
• Visas required for this trip
• Travel insurance with emergency contact telephone and policy Number
• Flight tickets, e-ticket
• Photocopies of important documents like tickets, visa, passport, credit card, itinerary to be kept in each luggage bag and email a copy to yourself
• Trip Itinerary along with hotel address and phone
• Passport size photographs for various permits
• Senior citizen card for travel discounts
• International driving license if you plan to drive
• Travel vaccination certificates

11. You are mostly expected to carry your own luggage in a backpack and smaller bags or backpacks with wheels with shoulder carry straps.

12. You will also need a waterproof day pack/bag to carry water bottle, camera and other personal needs for day trips.

13. Don’t forget to keep Padlocks (and keys)

14. Plastic Ziploc bags in all sizes

Personal Health

Medicines are easily available in India and often you do not require a prescription for over-the-counter medical supplies. You can buy all this stuff one you land up in India on your first day and be safe for the rest trip.

15. First aid kit – band aids, skin cream, cotton gauze, tweezers & bandage

16. Personal medication/prescriptions / Prescription glasses and sun glasses

17. Contact lenses and solution

18. High protection sunscreen (50+)

19. Lip balm

20. Sanitary pads or tampons

21. Chewing gums to pop your ears open while take off

22. Insect repellent creams or lotions like Odomos / Jungle

23. Anti-histamine/insect bite skin cream (Boroline)

24. Anti-allergy Tablets containing Pheniramine (Tab. Avil 50mg)

25. Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer gel/wipes

26. Travel sickness tablets or anti-vomiting tablets (Dramamine or Avomine)

27. Anti-malaria pills if required (Tab. Lariago DS)

28. Aspirin and/or paracetamol (Tab. Crocin)

29. Oral Rehydration powder (salts & glucose)

30. Antibiotics  (Tab. Augmentin 625mg / 1 gm tablets)

31. Gastroenteritis (food poisoning) medication for Delhi Belly containing Norfloxacin (Tab. Norflox-400mg) or Ciprofloxacin (Tab. Ciplox-Tz)

32. Anti-spasm tablets for bad Diarrhea (Delhi Belly) containing Loperamide (Tab. Ridol)

33. Painkillers such as Tramadol (Tab.Ultracet), (Tab. Ketorol-DT 10 mg)

34. Antibiotic Eye drops / Ear Drops (Ciplox Eye Drops)

35. Chewable antacid/antigas tablets Digene

36. Immodium AD tablets (for serious diarrhea)

37. Small tube of anti-itch cream (Ring Guard)

Melatonin prescription to counter jet lag: (OPTIONAL)

• After getting on plane, set watch to destination time
• While on the plane, take melatonin tablet at destination bedtime
• When traveling east, get morning sun (if possible) soon after arrival, and avoid afternoon sun
• When traveling west, get afternoon sun (if possible) soon after arrival, and avoid morning sun
• Keep taking melatonin at bedtime throughout trip
• Use reverse process on way home

Money Matters

38. Local currency (cash/credit cards)

39. Money belt or pouch

40. Calculator (All mobile phones have it)

Easy Sleeping

41. Eye mask

42. Ear Plugs

43. Alarm clock (Most mobile phones have it)

44. Inflatable neck pillow for comfortable sleeping (ESSENTIAL if travelling in trains)

45. Night clothes/sleepwear

For longer trips we recommend fast drying and easy wash clothing. Women should bring a skirt that covers their knees and a scarf for visiting places of worship. If going for jungle trekking, or on a safari, it is recommend you wear beige, light green or light brown clothing which will camouflage your presence with the surroundings.

46. At least 3 pairs of loose, thin trousers

47. Minimum 4 plain t-shirts or cotton shirts

48. Long skirt like cotton dress- must have for female

49. Long-sleeved top (for evenings when mosquitoes are out)

50. Denim shirt and jeans for chilly evenings

51. Thin cardigan for air-conditioned travel

52. Large cotton scarves to cover your head, shoulders while visiting religious places

53. At least 4 pair of cotton or woolen dark colored Socks / Underwear / Hankies

54. Lightweight, waterproof, windproof jacket if traveling in winters.

55. Sarong which can be used as head/shoulder scarf or skirt (suggested by Michael Huxley)

Camping / Tenting

56. Inner sleep sheet

57. Travel pillow / Neck pillow

58. Ground sheet (or plastic polythene sheet)

59. Head torch/flashlights (Most mobile phones have it)

Wet & Wild Weather

60. Raincoat

61. Lightweight folding umbrella (for rain or sun)

62. Waterproof bags for rain protection while walking

63. Waterproof & windproof jacket

64. Waterproof trousers

Walking or Hiking

Shoes in all colors, sizes and designs can be bought very cheaply in India. So no need to carry those bulky shoes all the way. You may wish to get one of these with you:

65. At least 1 pair of Havana flip-flops / sandals so that u don’t bulk your bag with many shoes

66. 1 pair of comfortable walking/hiking shoes with good grip

67. Hiking poles/walking sticks (only if you are going for trekking.)

Travel Accessories

68. Cell phone (Be sure that it’s “unlocked” and you may be able to buy a local SIM card to make international phone calls.)

69. Cell phone charger with International Adapter Multi plug

70. Camera, Memory cards & Extra camera battery with charger / Tripods / Selfie sticks

71. Ipods, Ipads, Tablets can be useful as wi-fi connection is fairly easy to find. Remember to carry a converter for the charging point. Avoid carrying a laptop as its bulky, risky to get stolen or broken and you can’t carry with you while visiting historic monuments like Taj Mahal. Instead of leaving laptop into the hands of strangers at every security check, better carry tablet with you.

72. Empty water bottle (you can fill it at airport after security check for in-flight use)

73. Scissors / Army knife with can opener (keep in checked-in luggage as not allowed on carry-on luggage)

74. Pen/paper

75. Hat/wide brim hat

Winter or Extreme Snow

76. Thermal underwear or base layers

77. Thick leather gloves

78. Monkey Cap

79. Woolen Jackets

80. Woolen muffler

81. Woolen Socks

82. Snow Boots

Personal Items

83. Toiletries: Go light on shampoo and toiletries – you can always buy it here! If you have a particular shampoo or cream you can’t live without, transfer it to small (~3.4 oz or less) bottles.

84. Shaving razors / Hairbrush / comb

85. Deodorant / Hand lotion, Face lotion

86. Face wash / Hand sanitizer

87. Makeup kit as small as possible

88. Toothpaste, Toothbrush

89. Tweezers & nail clippers

90. Feminine products (very easy to find in India)

91. Small packet of Kleenex

92. Paper soaps & Toilet paper

93. Bath towel

94. Small sewing kit, safety pins & rubber bands

95. Nutrition food bars like Muesli bars, if you don’t like the cuisine.(Suggested by Manouk)

97. Probiotics – Food in India is likely going to be very different from what you are used to, so this will help you be prepared. However, if you do get Delhi Belly, make sure you keep yourself hydrated with electrolytes and fresh coconut water and seek medical attention.

98. Menstrual Cup (Women) – If you want to experience an alternative and sustainable approach when menstruating, the Pixie cup works well when backpacking in India instead of carrying tons of pads. The Pixie Cup can be reused over and over for 10 years, making it far more sustainable than tampons or traditional pads. Or you can easily buy it in big cities of India at the Chemist (Drug) shops.

99. Swimming costume

100. Swimming towel

• Make sure every piece of luggage, including your daypack has a strong, waterproof tag on it, with essential contact information.
• Rolled clothing takes up less space than folded clothing.
• Have at least one combination cable-lock per bag that you bring. When out of your hotel room or visiting the ladies’ room in a train station or airport, you will want to lock your bags to the nearest heavy object for safety.
• If your bags are full on the way in, you can buy inexpensive duffle bags in India that will survive the trip home, to hold your purchases during the trip. Alternatively, you can bring a lightweight duffle bag rolled up in one of your bags to hold your purchases on the way home.

What You Shouldn’t Bring and What You Can Get in India?

• Try not to bring extravagant gems or jewelry and ones that will make you an objective. You will discover a lot of chances to buy ethnic gems also so make space for that.
• India has a variety of clothing from kurtis, to embroidered blouses that are perfect to blend in and enjoy the splash of colours that Indian ethnic wear brings. Do bring enough clothes that covers your modesty but feel free to play by ear and be respectful of cultures in villages and spiritual places.
• You can buy all your other liquid toiletries in India from face wash to shampoo as they are pretty affordable.
• Bring enough cash to last you for a month but you can bring it in USD or your preferred currency and visit banks to make the change. Do not bring too much as it is safe to use the available ATMs throughout India.

However this India packing list should be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a total complete India packing list for any weather or situations. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion. Some items on this list may not be necessary for your particular trip at a particular time.  What all to pack varies according to the trip style (Backpacking / Budget / Luxury), the countries you’re visiting, the climate and the time when you are visiting. I request you to please carefully consider the weather and time of year that you plan to travel.

For those of you who are not yet aware, We do offer India Endless Discoveries Tours — City Experiences / Day Trips & Featured Tours — which are unique, exclusive, experimental in nature with a personal touch providing an extraordinary travel experience. Also, we have a family run top rated 5 rooms boutique Bed & Breakfast – The Hideout Agra , which is located at just 15 minutes walk to Taj Mahal.  Guided group tour or tailor-made private holiday? Festival joy or a desert safari? Food walk or day tour? We’re bound to have a travel style that’s perfect for you. So if you happen to be in planning your next trip to India, get in touch with us for a unique India experience.

Check out below the highlights of our Bed & Breakfast.

13 Best Balinese Food Dishes You Must Eat When In Bali

How To Travel As A Couple Without Killing Each Other – The Mapping Megan Way

24 hours in amsterdam: photo essay.

The Long Good Bye – A Tribute To My Dear Mother: Dr Pramila Pathak

Ultimate Packing Essentials for India (+ FREE Travel Checklist)

Looking for the ultimate India packing essentials guide?

India is easily one of my favorite places to travel in the world, and I’ve personally visited three times, staying for six months on my last trip.

For such a large and diverse country, there is just so much to absorb and it really hits your senses. The juxtaposition of stunning nature, exotic wildlife, and ancient forts and temples is simply breathtaking and you’ll find this everywhere, the length and breadth of India.

In India winters are freezing up north – especially in evenings – in the foothills of the Himalayas, yet in the south, it is gloriously hot all year round – you board a plane in Delhi on a chilly January afternoon, fly two hours to Goa, and step off that plane into blissful heat!

They say once you’ve traveled in India, the rest of the world is easy.

Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!

🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com ✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars 🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing

In this post I’ve got you covered on everything you need to pack for your India packing list based on my first-hand experiences, ensuring that you’ll stay warm on chilly evenings but nice and cool when it’s searingly hot too.

I also go over the strict customs and social codes of this conservative country, and I have a what NOT to pack for India section near the bottom.

Plus, be sure to download your FREE PDF India travel packing list near the end of this post!

What to Pack for India in 2024 (+ FREE Travel Checklist)

Your complete packing list travel essentials guide for India, what to wear for men and women, what not to pack, customs and etiquette, and more.

Travel Documents

Firstly a list of all the important travel documents (such as IDs, itineraries and banking cards etc.) that you must bring on your India trip:

Passport and Itineraries

Take a photo of the photo page (2nd page) of your passport and save it on your camera roll. Get a photocopy made and bring it with you. Store this and all your important travel documents in one secure place, such as this travel wallet for women |   men  which will hold your passport and all your documents.

Travel Debit Cards

Bring at least a couple of travel-friendly debit or credit cards so that you always have access to cash. Remember, in India, cash is king. I always bring 2 cards just to be safe, they are:

• Wise (formerly Transferwise)

The above come with super useful banking apps that are very user-friendly and easy to use, as well as all being packed with tons of features, and most importantly, they are secured with 2FA and pin codes.

Driver License

If you’re planning to rent a car in India, you can use your driver license (if you’re from the US, UK, EU or have an international license). It also doubles as a valid ID, so you can leave your passport at your hotel/Airbnb.

Travel Insurance 

For extra security and peace of mind, don’t leave the house without good travel insurance by SafetyWing . Take it from me – what’s the worst that could happen? Well, when I first visitited Mexico I got electrocuted in a hostel (yes, seriously). I flicked a light switch in a dark bathroom and felt a sharp burn travel from my finger all the way up my arm, as if it caught fire. You can read about that incident in this post .

Think I just had a freak accident? What happens if you’re strolling down the food markets of Delhi and your appendix suddenly bursts? I can’t stress enough how important travel insurance is.

Travel Gadgets & Electronics

These are more travel essentials to ensure you’re connected to power and have access to the internet and to contacts during your trip, as well as gadgets to keep you entertained on long journeys – you won’t want to leave home without these:

Universal DrimSim Card

A relatively new concept, DrimSim is a universal SIM card that allows you to connect to Data almost anywhere in the world. What’s more, it isn’t attached to a singe operator, and you can choose either a regular SIM card or an e-SIM card.

👉 Travel tip: be sure to keep your original SIM card in a secure place such as the Passport Travel Wallet (it has a SIM card pocket designed specifically for this purpose).

Multi Plug Outlet / Universal Travel Plug

India operates on 230v mains and uses the rounded 3-pin plug (type D) as well as the rounded 2-pin plug (type C). For India this All-In-One Universal Travel Plug is super useful for visitors from anywhere in the world. It features several USB ports to charge all your travel gadgets.

10-Foot Charging Cable

In my experience many places I’ve stayed at had power outlets that were a little too far from the bed. So it’s always best to bring an extra long charging cable, like this one for iPhone , or this one for Android .

👉 Travel Tip: bring a second, shorter cable, like this one (iPhone) or this one (Android), that’s more convenient for charging from your power bank on the plane.

External Battery (Power Bank)

One of the most essential travel gadgets, an external battery (also called a power bank, portable battery charger or portable charger), can be a lifesaver when you cell phone battery is about to die on a long flight.

Plus, there’s no guarantee you’ll find an outlet in a lot of places (or at least a reliable outlet). This 26,800mAh Conxwan PowerBank is reliable and affordable whilst packing a lot of power. If you prefer a smaller model, the Keymox PowerBank is lighter and more compact whilst still packing plenty of juice.

Wireless Noise-canceling Earbuds

For comfort and convenience, you’ll want to grab yourself a pair of these Wireless Noise-Canceling Earbuds w/Bluetooth for traveling by air or on the road. Not only are they pretty decent with rave reviews on Amazon, they’re quite affordable too. Bonus!

Trtl Travel Neck Pillow

One of my favorite carry on essential items, these are not only perfect for flights, but for traveling around India too. Those car and train journeys in India will be a lot more relaxing when wearing the Trtl neck pillow , as the roads can be quite bumpy and journeys tend to be quite long.

Bendy Tripod Phone Holder

No doubt you’ll be planning to take some amazing photos on your India trip, and this bendable tripod phone holder is the easiest way to capture stunning and insta-worthy snaps. It’s small and compact, lightweight enough to carry around all day, and fits into your daypack neatly with minimal space.

A Compact Digital Camera

For the avid photographer and those looking to take superb quality pics, a decent compact digital camera is an absolute must. My favorite over the years is the Ricoh GRIII ultracompact camera , which features 24MP, 28mm F2.8 Lens and a touch-screen LCD display. It has remarkable image-stabilization which makes it perfect for whipping out and snapping pics while on the go. You can even attach external lenses for zooming in, as well as an external flash gun.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) 

A Virtual Private Network (aka VPN) is quickly becoming an important travel essential these days. What are they? VPNs allow you to establish a secure connection over a shared connection. So when you’re using free WiFi (eg. in a coffee shop), you’re connected to all the other people in that cafe, on that same network.

The problem with being on the same open network as others is that you’re exposed to potential hackers who have easy access to your information – such as your login credentials, bank card info, and other private things on the device you connect from – whether that’s your phone, tablet or laptop. Enter the NordVPN – it disguises your connection, so your precious information is invisible to anyone looking to hack an unsuspecting user’s device.

India  Travel Safety Items

A question many people ask is: Is India safe? The answer to that is, India is no more dangerous than anywhere else, as long as you keep your wits about you. Indeed, your main concern when traveling anywhere, is pickpockets and theft of valuable belongings in touristy places. The following list has everything you need to ensure you don’t encounter those situations.

Travel Money Belt

This is super handy when you’re walking around larger cities with cash and other small valuables – I recommend keeping these either stashed away in your hotel/airbnb, or stored securely on your body in a money belt .

Anti-Theft Book Bag

These have similar features as the anti-theft purses, the main zipper on these is in the back, making them impossible to open when you wear it on your back. Whether you decide on the cross-body bag or the backpack , it makes your daypack in the city slash-proof. This is really an extra-precautionary option, but will deter pickpockets and is great for peace of mind.

Anti-Theft Travel Purse

If you’re after the ultimate theft-proof purse, I highly recommend the Anti-Theft Travel Purse – it consists of five measures of theft prevention including:

• Slash-resistant straps: straps with stainless steel wire inside, protects against grab-and-go thieves
• Slash resistant fabric: the whole bag is made with a slash-resistant mesh barrier inside for extra layers of protection
• Lockdown straps: the strap lock secures bag to a stationary object, protecting against grab-and-go thieves
• Locking compartments: locking zipper pulls that prevent pickpockets from getting into your bag
• RFID blocking pockets: protects against electronic identity theft with RFID blocking card slots and pockets

Be sure to bring a small lock for any hostel stays in India, so you can securely store your valuables in the lockers provided.

Security Travel Scarf

This stylish Security Scarf features a hidden zipper and pocket for that extra layer of security. With this security scarf, you can store some cash, a credit card, your cell phone, and even your wireless earbuds inside the hidden compartment of the scarf and nobody would be any the wiser!

PacSafe Bag Protector

Another great security option for wherever you travel, the PacSafe bag protector will store all your valuables and secure it to a stationary item in your hotel/airbnb.

Eco-Friendly Travel Packing Essentials

These days most of us try to do our bit for the world around us, and with air travel, we become more conscious of our carbon footprint. So with the items below, you’ll be making a difference in protecting wildlife, nature and the environment.

Water-to-Go Filter Water Bottle

Since the water in India is not safe to drink, your only option is to buy bottled water (which wastes a lot of plastic), or bring a reusable water bottle that has a filter so you can fill up from a tap or river and drink perfectly-clean, fresh water. I always bring my trusty Water-to-Go Filter bottle with me for this reason. Use the code GIVEME15 at checkout and get 15% off your order!

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

If you’re planning to swim on the beaches of Goa or Kerala, consider wearing the eco-friendly Badger Anti-Bug Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 30) to help protect the environment.

Eco-friendly Bug Spray

There’s loads of bugs in India, so you’ll also definitely want to cover up this eco-friendly REPEL Insect Repellent , and not only ‘cause it’s environmentally friendly, but avoid getting a blown-up arm from a Mexican mosquito infection , as that’s what happened to me on my second trip to Mexico! The bug spray is plant-based, DEET free, and smells of lemon and eucalyptus.

👉 Travel Tip: There are convenience stores and malls in India that stock bug sprays, but they tend to be quite expensive because they know tourists will be forced to buy it if they don’t bring their own.

Anti-Mosquito Bracelet

Don’t fancy covering up in mosquito spray? Or looking to double up on protection? You can get yourself one of these mosquito-repelling bracelets which also does the job. (They are also DEET free and water-proof.)

Reusable Shopping Bag

Like with many places worldwide, India banned single-use plastic bags in all major cities since 1 July 2022. As such, you’ll want to make sure you have a couple of these reusable tote shopping bags that you can fold up into a tiny pouch, perfect for travel. Once folded, you can clip these little pouches onto the side of your purse or daypack, so it’s there ready to be filled with Indian souvenirs, groceries and/or crafts.

Toiletries & Medicines

This list features a cool travel hack and important travel essentials you can’t leave home without. A popular question asked is: do I need medicine for India? There are extreme climates around India including tropical jungles, deserts, and high-altitude terrain, and many parts of the country are hot year-round, hitting 45C (113F) in the spring.

Dry Shampoo & Conditioner

For those who don’t want to wash their hair on vacation, or looking to save luggage space, the Baptiste Dry Shampoo works a treat. And those with long hair will understand the inconvenience of getting sea salt in your hair. The Moroccan All-In-One Leave In Conditioner can be easily applied to your hair straight after a swim, plus it’s compact and convenient to carry around in your beach bag.

Hand Sanitizer & Pouch

This feels more like a mandatory essential item these days. To ensure you use it throughout the day, get a sanitizer pouch that clips onto the outside of your purse or day bag, so it’s within easy reach. Sanitizer Bottle Keychain Holder

Small Pack of Tissues

When traveling around India’s rural areas, villages, gas stations and markets, you may notice that toilet paper isn’t readily available in the bathrooms. You’ll also find if you travel on India’s overnight sleeper trains, tissues are an essential item. It’s always a smart tip to carry a small pack of Travel Tissues with you on your person, and they’re handy for numerous things.

Facial Oil Blotting Rice Paper 

India has a tropical climate, and the south is hot all year round. These sustainable Face Blotting Sheets with Natural Rice Powder are a quick and convenient way to dry sweat and oil, whilst making you feel instantly refreshed and looking shine-free.

Hangover Cure Tablets

Planning to party hard? Bring some hangover cure pills with you and take one before you hit the bars. The Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier contains antioxidants, herbs and homeopathic ingredients that ensure you won’t be hungover the following day, and missing out on precious vacation time. And don’t take my word for it either – it’s a bestseller on Amazon with over 96,000 positive reviews .

General Medications

You can easily get hold of medicine in India so don’t feel you have to pack the whole medicine cabinet. However its well worth bringing meds for headaches, cramps, allergies , as well as upset stomach meds like anti-diarrheal , Tums , and Pepto . Something else to consider: places like Rishikesh, Sikkim and Leh are high altitude regions due to being in the foothills of the Himalayas – they are over a thousand meters above sea level. If you’re not used to that, you may want to bring an altitude sickness bracelet as well as altitude sickness meds .

Massaging Shoe Gel Inserts

This one is more of a travel hack – if your vacation is going to involve lots of walking and hiking like mine, you may risk suffering aches and pains during your trip, especially if you do a lot of walking on day one of your trip. These super handy massaging gel inserts will keep your feet comfortable and protected from blisters, as well as from muscle pains and cramps in your legs.

India Beach Packing Accessories

Now for a list of items specifically for the beach, but also useful for things like watersports activities, and outdoor tours/excursions:

A good beach bag is perfect for storing all your beach essentials for days spent sunbathing by the sea. It also neatly folds away into your backpack.

Waterproof Phone Case

Who knew a cheap waterproof phone case could be a great investment? This one  is my fave – not only does it protect your prized possession in the water, it’s easy to use and doesn’t steam up/blur the camera lens, and it can fit almost every popular phone model.

Microfiber Towel

Perfect for the beach or poolside, the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is an absolute must for any India packing list. While they do feel a bit weird, they are lightweight and dry super fast, so you’ll never have to worry about stuffing a soggy towel in your bag.

Long-sleeve Rash Guard

When you’re in the water – whether in the Keralan seas or the rivers of Rishikesh, a rash guard will help protect your skin from sunburn, cuts and grazes. O’Neill does superb rash guard for both men and women .

Underwater Camera

The good news about underwater cameras is that they are not as expensive as they used to be, which is brilliant for budget travelers. In fact, you can buy a pretty good one like this one by Akaso – not only does it have rave reviews, it’s actually quite cheap! I seriously recommend bringing one of these if you plan to go snorkeling.

Beach Coverup

For the ladies (or indeed anyone feeling particularly stylish) – a Beach Coverup is a great item to add into your packing list for that extra protection from sunburn when not in the water.

Other Beach Accessories

Finally, don’t forget to bring beach flip flops, a decent sun hat , a headband, and a snorkel . Plus, it’s wise to bring inexpensive polarized sunglasses – seriously, the amount of times I’ve lost my sunglasses over the years, and bringing designer sunglasses sets yourself up as a target for thieves. And lastly, if you’re going on excursions that involve rafting or waterfalls, you’re gonna need a pair of water shoes and a dry bag .

Clothing / Attire for India

For the image conscious and those looking to save packing space, it’s well worth having a capsule wardrobe for your India vacation so that you can interchange and mix up items of clothing, in order to wear a different look each day.

Hiking Boots

A strong and reliable pair of hiking boots will serve you well for all your trekking and walking activities in India and everywhere else, for years to come. These Columbia men’s and women’s hiking boots are some of the best around, though if you’re on a budget and don’t want to compromise on quality, you can get a pair of Quechua hiking shoes for men / women .

An absolute must for beach vacations or even in case of a murky hostel shower. These trendy looking pair for women and men by Havaianas are popular.

Harem Pants

These are popular among visitors to India: harem pants are an extremely baggy yet trendy pair of long-length pants that are also very comfortable and made of quality wool material – meaning they keep you cool during the hot daytime, and keep you warm during the cooler evenings.They are also traditional clothing native to India, which will make you blend in well with the locals.Plus, I find they also prevent mosquitos bites due to the elastic cuffs at the bottom.

Chances are you’ll need a swimsuit if you’re heading to the beaches of Goa, staying at an all-inclusive resort, or visiting India’s waterfalls and waterparks. Bring at least a couple so that you always have a dry one ready. This women’s suit and these men’s trunks are tried and tested bestsellers.

Cashmere Wrap/Scarf

If there’s one essential piece of clothing for India I’d say it’s this. Another traditional and popular attire that’s worn all over the Indian sub-continent: the classic Cashmere Wrap/Scarf is an absolute must for traveling India. Made from 100% wool from the Yaks of north India and Nepal, there’s a number of reasons why you need one of these:

• it’s incredibly versatile – you can fashion and wear it in various ways
• lightweight and easy to fold and pack away
• made from 100% pure Yak wool – premium quality material that will keep you surprisingly warm on a freezing night, yet keep you cool in scorching hot weather
• trendy – it’s traditional Indian attire that will make you blend in with the locals

Light Jacket

While India is known for its tropical climate and hot temperatures, you should definitely pack a jacket if you’re heading to the cities or the mountains. The Indian desert and hilly regions can get chilly in the evenings, and the whole north of India can be quite cold in the winter months. My favourite jacket is the trusted Columbia light jacket ( mens / womens ) which is comfy, light and always keeps me warm.

Sandals are an essential item for India so you’ll want to make sure you have a decent pair that last many years. For women, these Tevas are comfortable and fashionable and have great reviews. For men, these sandals are affordable and have a strong and sturdy sole.

👉 Travel Tip: Indians are modest and dress conservatively – in the cities and villages, as well as on the beaches, it’s not unusual to see Indians dressed in jeans and long-sleeve shirts, in fact this is the norm. Shorts are much more commonplace in beach spots like Goa and Kerala. You can wear shorts in some cities like Mumbai, but bear in mind that you’ll draw more attention if you do. If you want to blend in, opt for leggings/full length pants instead.

Sarong Cover up

Now one of the most important clothing essentials you’ll need in India is a sarong – both men and women will require one to wear when entering some sacred sites, it’s really versatile so you can wear it as a coverup for the beach or walking around the markets and villages. The Back From Bali Sarong for women and men is perfect for India with 20 different designs to choose from.

Luggage/Baggage and Packing Items for India

Finally, here’s a list of the packing items and baggage that I use to encase and carry all my stuff when I go on a backpacker type of trip. It’s well worth investing in a trusted brand to ensure you have reliable gear that will last you years of travel.

In 10 years of travel, I find the clamshell type of backpack the most convenient for quick access to everything inside your bag. The Tortuga Setup Backpack ( mens / womens ) is one of the best out there. Not only is it affordable, its also very durable, weather-resistant, and comes in either 35L or 45L sizes.

Hardside Suitcase (if not the backpack)

People often ask me: Do I need a backpack for India? Can I bring a suitcase for an India vacation? The answer is: you can bring EITHER – while backpacks are popular for those staying at several places around the country, a suitcase is perfectly fine also, in fact, I brought a suitcase on my first India trip, where I stayed in Delhi and also in Goa.

Amazon Basics does a 30-inch Hardside Spinner that fits neatly into the overhead and it’s got 36,000 reviews to boot. A suitcase is perfect if you plan to spend most of your trip in 1-2 places or on a resort.

The daypack is super useful day-to-day on your vacation and is perfect coupled with a suitcase, as you don’t really want to be wearing your larger backpack other than for flight days and traveling between cities and regions. You can’t go wrong with the Osprey Daylite Daypack , that comes in a range of colors, it’s a hugely popular option loved by backpackers and travel bloggers alike.

Travel Laundry Bag

This is a must-have item for keeping your packing organized and reducing risk of lost clothing on your travels. It’s always wise to keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean laundry, plus, you’ll need a laundry bag to hand over to the launderette when you need to get your laundry done.

Space Saver Packing Cubes

Another must-have packing essential, these packing cubes are a smart way of keeping your clothes well organized in your backpack whilst also saving tons of space, and giving you peace of mind. The Space Save Packing Cubes come in three different sizes, so you can put your pants in one, and shirts in another etc. The double zipper design ensures the pack shrinks down as small as possible when filled, leaving you with plenty more bag space for all your India souvenirs and new attire.

👉 Travel Tip: if you really want to save space in your backpack, use these compression bags . They suck the air out like a shrink-wrap, and you’ll be amazed by how much space is left!

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Another one of my favorite travel hacks is this hanging toiletry bag . It’s really useful for storing your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo and conditioner, face wash, trimmer, bug spray and sunscreen, and it saves space in your backpack.

Travel Medicine Kit

Sometimes it’s better to be safe than sorry on your travels by planning ahead and bringing along basic medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen, motion sickness pills and sleep aids. However, if you don’t want to buy those, the travel medicine kit packs them together neatly.

What NOT to bring to India?

What should you not pack for India? Below are the 4 main things you absolute need to leave at the door before you depart for India:

1. DON’T pack too many clothes

Honestly the number of times I’ve overpacked on my travels, it only causes dead weight and it doesn’t help at airport check-in either. If you forget anything, you can always buy them cheap at the market stalls.

2. DON’T bring designer labels and expensive jewelry

You will stand out in a crowd like a sore and set yourself up as a target for pickpockets. Another reason is that lots of taxi drivers and touts swarm around you near the entrances to bus/train stations and other public spaces, each one trying to convince you to take their offer. Try to blend in with the locals to avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself.

3. DON’T bring too much cash

Use travel money cards like Wise and Revolut. If you travel around in an Uber or Ola, you pay by phone anyway. You won’t need to carry more than 1000-1500 rupees in a single day.

4. DON’T bring unnecessary electronics/gadgets

A camera is fine as long as its strapped securely to your person, but carrying around a tablet isn’t sensible, and you risk getting it stolen, or at the least, drawing unwanted attention to yourself.

5. DON’T pack more than one set of warm clothes

It takes up valuable luggage space and besides, one set is enough for your India trip.

6. DON’T bring revealing outfits

Dress modestly in India and adhere to the strict social customs: keep your shoulders, navel, arms and legs covered. The only exception is on the beaches at touristy places like Goa and Kerala.

What should I be careful of in India?

Here’s what to avoid when in India:

• Bottled water – bring a Water-to-Go water filter bottle instead.
• Raw/uncooked foods – avoid at all costs. Makes sure your food is cooked through.
• Being overly polite – it’s considered a sign of weakness.
• Only using private transport – try out the public transport sometime, especially the buses and trains (they’ve improved over the years).
• Revealing clothes – cover up your shoulders, upper arms, and legs.
• Wearing flashy jewelry and branded clothing – you’ll stand out like a sore thumb to pickpockets and you won’t be able to get yourself a good price on taxis or at the markets.
• Getting easily offended or frustrated – Indians tend to be direct and ask questions about personal things and work etc., don’t take offence, and keep an open mind.

India Packing Checklist

Download your FREE printable, India packing list female and male PDF here:

You can print it out and use it to tick off the boxes while packing for your India vacation!

India packing list FAQs :

Here are the most commonly asked questions about what to pack for India travel essentials:

What should you pack for India?

Here’s everything you need to pack for a trip to India: Comfortable sandals or flip flops Loose fitting and breathable clothing (ie: harem pants) Long sleeve top to prevent sunburn Scarf or shawl for the cooler evenings Eco-friendly bug repellent spray (or mosquito wristband) Eco-friendly sunscreen Electronics (power bank, universal adapter, charger cable) Plenty of tissues A lifestrpaw water filter bottle Hiking shoes (if trekking)

What not to bring to India?

Here’s what NOT to bring to India: DON’T pack too many clothes – if you forget anything, you can always buy them cheap at the market stalls DON’T bring designer labels and expensive jewelry – you will stand out in a crowd and set yourself up as a target for pickpockets DON’T bring too much cash – use travel money cards like Wise and Revolut. You won’t need more than 1000 rupees in a single day. DON’T bring unnecessary electronics/gadgets – a securely-strapped camera is fine, but a tablet isn’t sensible and you risk getting it stolen. DON’T pack more than one set of warm clothes – it takes up valuable luggage space and one set is enough. DON’T bring revealing outfits – dress modestly in India and adhere to the strict social customs: keep your shoulders, navel, arms and legs covered.

What should I pack for a 7 day trip?

For a 7-day trip to India, pack the following essentials: Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts to protect from the sun, loose-fitting and breathable clothing like long skirts, loose pants, and airy t-shirts. Consider bringing kurtas for men and women. Breathable leggings for women are recommended, especially for coconut-buying. Scarves are versatile for covering shoulders and arms during temple visits or as a wrap for cool nights. Footwear: Comfortable shoes suitable for walking on dirty roads and climbing stone ruins. Consider closed-toe shoes for better protection. Ear Plugs: Useful in noisy cities. Torch: A flashlight for dark areas or emergencies. Microfiber Travel Towel: Compact and quick-drying. Modest Clothing: Long skirts or pants, along with modest tops, are essential for visiting temples. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and no leather is allowed in Jain temples. Travel First Aid Kit: Include basic medical supplies for emergencies. Toiletries: Personal hygiene essentials. Important Documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance, and other necessary documents. Cameras & Tech: Capture memories with cameras and carry essential tech items. Health & Safety: Consider bringing hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent, and any necessary medications. Miscellaneous: A reusable water bottle, a small daypack, and plastic bags for storing wet or dirty clothes.

What are the must have items of an essential pack?

Water Bottle with Built-in Filter: Stay hydrated with filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses. India Power Adapter: Ensure your electronics are compatible with India’s power outlets. Virtual Private Network (VPN): Protect your online data and access restricted websites. Neck Wallet: Safeguard your valuables and documents in crowded areas. Charcoal Tablets: Effective remedy for food poisoning and stomach issues. Mosquito Repelling Wristbands: Ward off mosquitoes, some of which may carry malaria. Probiotics: Boost your gut health and prepare for new food bacteria. Electrolytes: Stay hydrated and prevent heat-related issues. Luggage Locks: Secure your belongings during travel and when unattended.

Can females wear shorts in India?

Can I wear shorts in India? Shorts are ok to wear in touristy beach areas like Goa and Kerala. Shorts are also acceptable (for both men and women) in cities like Mumbai, where they re commonly worn by the locals.

Can I show my shoulders in India?

Since India is a conservative country, you should avoid baring shoulders or showing cleavage and legs, in line with strict customs and etiquette.

Download your FREE India Travel Cheatsheet

So there you go – the only travelling to India checklist and packing guide you’ll ever need.

Take it from my 9+ years of travel across 4 continents and 48 countries, this list was created from trial and error, discovering the most reliable and trustworthy items that have served me well on my travels, as well as thousands of positive reviews that make them reputable. Be sure to download your Europe and US to India travel checklist below!

• Going abroad soon? Check out my post: How To Plan For A Vacation (and download my FREE printable travel checklist)
• Read up on my Top 10 Ways To Save Money For Travel to learn how I saved over $1K in one month

If you enjoyed this post, share it on Pinterest so your followers can enjoy it too!

Billy Read is the owner and author of BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, a travel blog that helps travelers discover unique destinations and travel experiences on a budget. With more than 10 years of global travel filled with accidents, Billy aims to help readers avoid making the same mistakes as he did, and make the most of their epic trips.

The Perfect India Travel Checklist: Everything You Need to Explore the Rich Culture

Traveling to India can be an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in a rich and diverse culture unlike any other. However, planning a trip to India can also be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are unfamiliar with the country. That’s why having a comprehensive India travel checklist is essential to ensure that you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you are a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this ultimate India travel checklist will provide you with the knowledge and resources necessary to make the most of your trip and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of India. So, grab your pen and paper and get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Planning your itinerary: Where to go and what to see

Planning your itinerary is a crucial step in making the most of your trip to India. With its vast size and numerous attractions, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to see. But fear not, as this section will guide you through the must-visit destinations that will allow you to truly experience the rich culture of India.

Start by exploring the iconic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, also known as the Golden Triangle. These cities are home to architectural wonders such as the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Hawa Mahal, and offer a glimpse into India’s fascinating history. From there, venture further to the colorful state of Rajasthan, where ancient palaces and local traditions await you at every corner. For nature enthusiasts, don’t miss the serene backwaters of Kerala or the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. And for a truly spiritual experience, visit Varanasi, the holiest city in India, where you can witness the daily rituals on the banks of the sacred Ganges River.

Remember, India is a land of incredible diversity, so tailor your itinerary to your interests and allocate enough time to fully explore each destination. Stay tuned for the next section, where we will delve into the essentials of accommodation and transportation to ensure a hassle-free journey.

Essential documents and visas: Making sure you have all the necessary paperwork

When embarking on your journey to explore the rich culture of India, it is essential to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and visas in order. This will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

First and foremost, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended departure from India. It is also advisable to make copies of your passport and other important documents such as your driver’s license, travel insurance policy, and a list of emergency contact numbers. Keep these copies separate from the originals in case of loss or theft.

Next, check the visa requirements for your country of residence. Most visitors to India require a visa, which can be obtained through the online e-Visa facility or by applying at the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country. It is advisable to apply for your visa well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays or complications. You can also see step by step process to apply for an India Travel Visa .

If you are planning to drive in India, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your driver’s license. This can be obtained from your local automobile association.

By ensuring that you have all the necessary documents and visas in order, you can travel to India with peace of mind and fully immerse yourself in its rich culture. In the next section, we will discuss the best options for accommodation to suit every traveler’s needs. So, stay tuned!

Packing essentials: What to bring for a comfortable and convenient trip

When packing for your trip to India, it’s important to consider what essentials you’ll need to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

Firstly, it’s always a good idea to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, especially if you’re traveling during the hotter months. Loose-fitting pants, long-sleeved shirts, and shawls can be useful to protect yourself from the sun and also for modesty when visiting temples and other cultural sites.

Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll likely be exploring a lot on foot. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong Indian sun.

Electrical adapters are a must, as India uses a different type of plug than you might be accustomed to. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger for your phone or other electronic devices, as power outlets can be scarce in some areas.

Lastly, be sure to bring any necessary medications, a first aid kit, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your journey.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy India’s rich culture in comfort and convenience. Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll discuss some must-visit cultural destinations in India.

Health and safety precautions: Staying safe and healthy during your travels

Ensuring your health and safety is essential when traveling to any destination, and India is no exception. In this section, we’ll discuss some important health and safety precautions to take during your visit to India.

Firstly, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor or a travel health clinic before your trip. They can provide you with important information on recommended vaccinations and medications for India. Common vaccinations for travelers to India include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. It’s also worth considering getting a prescription for an anti-malarial medication if you plan to visit rural areas.

When it comes to food and water safety, it’s advisable to only drink bottled water and avoid consuming street food or drinks with ice cubes. Stick to eating freshly cooked and hot meals, and peel fruits yourself to ensure cleanliness. It’s also a good idea to carry hand sanitizer with you and use it frequently, especially before eating.

In terms of personal safety, it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

By taking these health and safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to India. In the next section, we’ll delve into the vibrant festivals and celebrations that you shouldn’t miss out on during your visit. Stay tuned!

Understanding local customs and etiquette: Respecting the culture and traditions of India

In addition to ensuring your health and safety, it’s equally important to educate yourself about the local customs and etiquette of India. This will not only help you to better understand the culture and traditions of the country but also show respect towards the local people.

India is a diverse nation with a rich cultural heritage, and each region has its own unique customs and traditions. It’s highly recommended to familiarize yourself with basic etiquette such as greeting others with a “Namaste” and dressing modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Remember to remove your shoes before entering temples or people’s homes as a sign of respect. While English is widely spoken in many parts of India, it’s always appreciated if you make an effort to learn a few basic words and phrases in the local language. This will go a long way in connecting with the locals and building a positive rapport.

Understanding and respecting local customs will not only enhance your travel experience but also promote cultural exchange and appreciation. Whether it’s participating in a traditional ritual or trying local customs, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of India will create unforgettable memories. Stay tuned for the next section where we’ll discuss unique and offbeat destinations that are sure to enchant you.

Exploring the diverse cuisine: Trying out the delicious flavors of India

No trip to India is complete without indulging in its mouth-watering cuisine. The country’s food is as diverse as its culture, with each region offering its own unique flavors and specialties. From the spicy curries of the North to the aromatic biryanis of the South, there is something to satisfy every palate.

When it comes to trying out the local cuisine, be prepared for a sensory overload. Indian dishes are known for their bold use of spices and flavors, so brace yourself for a culinary adventure. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and try dishes you’ve never heard of before. Street food is particularly popular in India, offering a wide variety of snacks and small bites that are perfect for exploring the local flavors.

As you embark on your culinary journey, keep in mind that hygiene is crucial. Look for clean and busy food stalls and restaurants, as these are usually a good indication of quality and freshness. Additionally, be mindful of any dietary restrictions or food allergies you might have and inform the waitstaff accordingly.

To truly immerse yourself in the local food culture, consider taking a cooking class or food tour. This will not only give you a hands-on experience in preparing authentic Indian dishes but also provide insights into the history and significance of various ingredients and cooking techniques.

Remember, exploring the diverse cuisine of India is not just about satisfying your taste buds but also an opportunity to connect with the locals and understand their way of life. By embracing the flavors of India, you’ll not only create lasting memories but also develop a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of this incredible country.

Must-see landmarks and attractions: Discovering the beauty and history of the country

Now that you have experienced the tantalizing flavors of India, it’s time to explore the country’s captivating architecture and historical landmarks. From ancient forts and palaces to awe-inspiring temples and monuments, India is a treasure trove of architectural marvels that will leave you in awe.

One of the most famous landmarks in India is the Taj Mahal in Agra. This magnificent white marble mausoleum is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is a testament to the eternal love of Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. As you stand in front of this iconic structure, you will be mesmerized by its intricate details and symmetrical design.

Another must-visit destination is the Pink City of Jaipur. Here, you will find the historical gem of Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. Its unique facade, adorned with intricately carved windows and balconies, allowed the royal women to observe the city’s bustling streets while maintaining their privacy.

Venturing further south, the ancient city of Hampi will transport you to a bygone era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to stunningly preserved ruins of temples, palaces, and other structures from the Vijayanagara Empire. As you climb the boulder-strewn landscape, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of the grandeur that once existed here.

And let’s not forget the vibrant city of Varanasi, regarded as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. This spiritual hub on the banks of the sacred Ganges River is dotted with numerous ghats, where pilgrims perform religious rituals and ceremonies. Witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a ceremony of devotion to the river, is an experience that cannot be missed.

Immerse yourself in the local culture: Engaging with the people and traditions of India

As you journey through India and explore its architectural wonders, it’s essential to immerse yourself in the local culture to truly appreciate the country’s rich heritage. Engaging with the people and traditions of India will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of their way of life and form connections that will enhance your travel experience.

Take the time to interact with the locals and learn about their customs, traditions, and daily routines. This can be as simple as striking up a conversation with a shop owner, joining a cooking class to learn about Indian cuisine, or participating in a local festival or cultural event.

India is known for its diverse range of art forms and handicrafts. Visit local markets and artisan workshops to witness skilled craftsmen creating beautiful textiles, pottery, jewelry, and more. Not only will you have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs, but you’ll also be supporting local communities and preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new experiences. From practicing yoga and meditation in ashrams to learning traditional dance forms, India offers a multitude of cultural activities that will leave a lasting impact on your journey.

Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll uncover the mesmerizing natural beauty of India, from the majestic mountains of the Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala.

Enjoying a truly enriching travel experience in India

In conclusion, immersing yourself in India’s rich culture is the key to enjoying a truly enriching travel experience. By engaging with the locals, participating in cultural activities, and exploring the vibrant markets and artisan workshops, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage but also form lasting connections with its people.

Remember to step out of your comfort zone and try new experiences. Whether it’s practicing yoga in an ashram, learning a traditional dance form, or joining a cooking class, India offers a multitude of opportunities for cultural exploration.

In the next section, we will delve into the mesmerizing natural beauty of India. From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, get ready to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes that this country has to offer. Stay tuned for more!

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What to Pack for India – Packing List for First-Time Travelers!

Wondering what to pack for India? It was one of the main things I worried about when planning my two week India trip so I put together this I ndia packing list  for other travellers to use. When working out what to pack India can be a bit of a hard one but just follow my tips below and you’ll soon know exactly what to bring along in your backpack. I think I did a pretty good job packing for India and have a good idea of what to bring to India even after my first trip there. 

You can print a copy of my packing list for India from the PDF a the bottom of this post. It’s useful to have a traveling to India checklist so you can first go through your wardrobe and travel gear to work out what you already have and then establish what you need to buy before your trip. I’ve also included some tips on things to get from India when you get there… because shopping is one of the best things to do in India!

What You'll Find in This Post

Tips on What to Wear When Visiting India

I’d like to point out a few tips on what to wear when visiting India, particularly if you’re a female traveller . It’s important to at least try to adhere to some of the local cultural conventions when planning what clothes to wear in India. India is a conservative country and you should attempt to dress somewhat conservatively . Why? What to wear when traveling to India can actually make an impact on how you’re treated by the local population. You’re never going to blend in completely and you’re always going to get stared at but, if you make some effort with your clothing choices, you can minimise a bit of that discomfort and try not to stick out as a clueless tourist.

So, what should tourists wear in India? 

• Clothing that covers the knees, cleavage and shoulders is ideal. If you’re unsure, here are some cute modest dresses for inspiration!
• Light, loose cotton outfits will keep you covered but cool and comfortable.
• Buy some Indian clothing when you arrive! It’s colorful and so much more fun than what we wear at home!!
• Check the weather before you go. India is a big country and the weather varies between places and seasons.

With that being said, what to wear travelling in India isn’t too hard! Just stick with the guidelines I have outlined above and you’ll be fine. For quantities and specifics on what to pack for a trip to India, see below.

Here are some photos of my in my India travel clothes from my trip so you can get an idea on what to wear on holiday in India:

Bethaney at Humayan’s Tomb in Delhi, India

Bethaney at the City Palace in Udaipur, India

Bethaney at the Amber Fort in Jaipur, India

Again at the Amber Fort in Jaipur, India

Bethaney Geared Up for a Zipline Tour in Jodhpur, India

Bethaney at the Taj Mahal at Dawn, India

Bethaney Touring the Taj Mahal, India (This is one of the tunics I had made in India!)

Bethaney in Varanasi, India (This is another one of the tunics I had made in India!)

What to Pack for India

Here is my list of what to pack when traveling to India. This is what I used as my travel to India packing list to prep for my recent two week trip. It is written from my perspective as a women traveling alone and as a first time traveler to India. You can adjust accordingly!

Clothing for India Travel

The items on my list are are women’s travel clothes for India . If you’re a guy, sub in a shirt or two and an extra pair of pants. (You almost never see people wear shorts in India so I would leave them at home.)

• Light cotton pants x 2 – I packed two pair of black, loose cotton pants like this which worked perfectly. If you’re traveling during winter you could bring jeans or trackpants too.
• Leggings x 1
• Light shirts x 1-2 – You can buy more in India! See below.
• Vest tops x 1-2 – For wearing under things, to bed etc
• T-shirts x 4-5
• Cardigan – The only time I needed this was on the plane! If you’re traveling to Northern India in winter you will need a few longer layers for warmth. Merino base layers like this are great for traveling light in cooler climates.
• Underwear x 10
• Socks x 1 – I don’t wear socks with any of my shoes but it’s still useful to have a pair for the plane. Compression socks are essential for a long flight!
• Nightie / PJs

Shoes to Wear in India

When planning what shoes to wear in India, remember that you’ll be slipping your shoes on and off frequently when visiting temples. Bear in mind any adventure activities that you plan on doing. For my zipline tour in Jodphur I knew I needed sneakers. If you’re planning any trekking or hiking you’ll need to pack the right footwear for that too.

• Sandals – Pick a comfortable but stylish pair of sandals for travel like these.  I have a guide to some of the best travel sandals here.
• Sneakers – I love my Sketchers Go Walk sneakers and think they’re the best shoes for travel! Lightweight, slip on, no socks required and easy to wash if need be. Mine were pretty yucky after my India trip but washed up nicely at home.
• Flip flops (if you plan on visiting the beach on your trip, otherwise leave them out)

Things to Buy in India

While you can always bring these items from home if you have them, you won’t regret leaving room for some shopping in India. Clothing here is so cheap and colorful! You can get stuff made to order in a couple of hours or buy a full sari as a beautiful souvenir.

• Pashmina or light scarf depending on weather when you visit
• Tunic tops – You can get beautiful printed tunic tops made up quickly in India. I had several made up on my trip and they were great. Cotton, comfortable, lightweight, good length.
• Toothbrush – A folding one in it’s own case is ideal.
• Soap – Take a small bar from am previous hotel just in case. I didn’t need it as it was always provided by the hotel but you never know!
• Shampoo (in GoToob) – GoToobs are a travel essential for me!
• Conditioner (in GoToob)
• Coconut oil (in GoToob)
• Facial moisturiser – I use a small bottle of Rosehip oil as it’s compact for travel
• Probiotics & vitamins – Take probiotics at home to prep your tummy for potential upsets!
• Medication – Anything you need to take regulary. I tip my medication and vitamins into ziploc bags for easier packing.
• Insect repellent
• Female urinary device – If you’re worried about toilets on trains, squat toilets etc
• Menstrual cup or sanitary items if you need them
• Tissues – Little packets are perfect! Keep one in your purse and a few in your backpack so you can replenish your stock throughout your trip. You’ll need them every day as toilet paper is scarce in restaurants, tourist attractions etc.
• Hand santiser
• Antibacterial wipes – Wipe and sanitise your hands before every meal! I did this throughout my trip and did not get sick once.
• Hair ties & bobby pins
• Nail file / clippers – Short nails are clean nails!

First Aid Kit

Here are my suggestions for what medicine to take to India in your first aid kit:

• Charcoal tablets – The minute your tummy starts to feel dodgy after eating, take a couple of these and you won’t get sick! Seriously. I tried it several times and it worked great. Tip a few into a ziploc bag rather than bring the whole bottle.
• Immodium – If you have to be on the go when you’re sick!
• Electrolyte sachets – If you do get vomitting or diarrhea then you’ll need to replace lost fluids
• Antihistamine cream for bites
• Antiseptic cream – If you do get any wounds or bites keep them clean and covered to prevent infection.
• Antiacids – If you’re not used to eating spicy food every night then definitely bring these. They were a life saver for me!

Travel Essentials for India

Here are my extra travel essentials for India that will really help make your trip more comfortable, safer and easier!

• Headlamp or small flashlight
• Laundry soap sheets
• Travel clothes line
• Luggage lock
• Lonely Planet guide book – Just bear in mind the full India guidebook is massive and weighs 1kg / 2lbs so a smaller regional guidebook is much better for a short trip!
• Novel or audiobooks on your iPhone – Shantaram is perfect!
• Steripen – I would have taken this but couldn’t get it delivered in time. It would have been nice to bring a Steripen and a reusable water bottle to avoid using so many plastic water bottles on my trip.
• Collapsible travel drink bottle
• Door wedge – If you’re a woman traveling alone in India then this offers you a little extra peace of mind. Just put it under the door when you’re inside your room to prevent hotel staff for coming in unannounced.

Electronics

You don’t have to bring a laptop along with you but I never travel without mine as I use it for blogging and loading up photos to make room on my memory card and phone. Wifi in the hotels in India was pretty good. I also got a local sim card with 5GB of data which was fantastic to have when I was out and about. I’ll do a future post on how to get a sim card in India because it was a bit of a palaver.

• Travel adapter + surge protector – Surge protection is necessary for India as elecetricity can sometimes be unreliable
• Power strip – With at least two power points so you can charge everything at once (if your travel adapter doesn’t already do this)
• Laptop & charger
• iPhone & charger
• Sony a6000 mirrorless camera, lens & charger – I think this is the best travel camera if you want to take good pictures but still travel light!
• Gorillapod or tripod – I bought my tripod but didn’t end up using it and wish I’d bought the Gorillapod instead!
• Fitbit / Fitness watch – I love seeing how many steps I walk each day when I travel. A day of sightseeing around Delhi was easily over 20,000 steps!

Best Backpack for India Travel

One of my biggest India packing tips would be to travel with a backpack, preferably carry on sized only. A carry on backpack worked well for me on my two week India trip. I was easily able to pack travel clothes for India for two weeks in my 40L carry on sized bag. Here’s what I think are the best backpacks for travel in India:

• Kelty Redwing 40L – If you’re a women then this is the best backpack for India travel. I have the older version of this and it worked perfectly for my India trip.
• Osprey Packs Farpoint 40L For guys looking for the best travel backpacks India, this is the top choice I see most male travelers using.

A 40L is plenty for a two week trip and if you’re staying longer you can always do laundry as you go! I hand washed underwear in the hotel sink once during my trip using the Travelon laundry sheets I mention above.

How to Pack Your Bag for India and Packing Tips

Now you know what to bring here’s how to pack for India!

• Backpack – As mentioned above, I think a backpack is the best form of luggage for packing for India trip
• Packing cubes – Organise your pack with packing cubes! If you don’t know how, then r ead this guide to packing cubes.
• Toiletry bag – I use this flat pack one from eBags. It looks big but it really is flat and therefore easy to pack. You can read my review here.
• Laundry bag – Useful for your dirty clothes
• Folding backpack – Ideal for packing snacks for a train ride, stuff you want to access easily on the plane or just using on longer day trips
• Travel purse – I think this is the ideal cross body purse for travel as it’s big enough for a guide book, water bottle, camera and your money plus it has anti-theft straps and material meaning it can’t be slashed.
• Money wallet – Bring a money wallet or coin purse for taking out in your bag for the day. I only took one card out at a time and as much cash as I needed for the day and then I left the remaining cash and cards locked in my backpack which was cable locked to something in my room.

Documents & Money You Need for an India Trip

• eVisa print out – Print out your eVisa for India if you don’t have a regular visa in your passport. There is a separate queue at airport immigration for eVisa holders.
• Flight booking print outs – In order to get into airport terminals in India, you need to show your passport and a print out of your flight details.
• Passport photos – You might need them if you’re planning on getting a sim card in India
• Photocopy of your passport
• Travel insurance – Print out the policy number, claim details etc. If you haven’t purchased travel insurance already then check out the deals below.
• Credit card and debit card – Bring at least two cards as ATM machines can be fickle
• USD or GBP in cash – Due to the recent changes with Indian bank notes, it can be hard to find a working ATM in India. The worst place I encountered this was in Agra, where the only ATM machine I found that worked would let you take out 4000 rupees at a time. It is definitely worth it to have a few hundred dollars or pounds as a back up so you can change money if ATMs aren’t working in your favor! There is a thread on the Lonely Planet Thorntree with updates about the banking situation in India which might be useful.

Printable India Packing List – PDF

Print out my India travel packing list so you can lay out all the things to pack for India and check them off as you go. I find this the most useful way to pack my bag for travel so I can see what I have already and then work out the additional things to take to India and buy them before I depart.

>>>Click here to download my India travel checklist.<<<<

Questions on what to take to India?

Now that you’ve got my  packing list India should be easy to pack for! If you have any question on my India trip packing list then please just let me know in the comments and I’ll get back to you.

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Great list Bethany! India is on my bucket list so this will come in handy for when I visit… one day!

That’s a very clever list. I’m an Indian myself and always stock up on some of the items stated in the list. You are going to need them for a pleasant stay. Thanks for sharing. 🙂

Looks like such a fascinating place, one I would LOVE to visit someday! Useful tips for first time visitors, will be sure to pin this for future travels

Great list. Where did you get your tunics made? They are lovely

I got them made at a tailor in Udaipur. I don’t know the name sorry.

This is super helpful! My wife and I are going to India at the beginning of November and your recommendations will come in handy! We aren’t going to Udaipur but I do want to get some tunics made when we are over there. What was that process like? I’m a bigger gal and was worried I wouldn’t be able to find any tunics for me to buy.

Yes you’ll be fine. There are tailors everywhere!

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• Destinations

India Packing List: Essential Things to Pack When Traveling to India

Once you are done with booking flight tickets, hotels, etc. then comes one of the most important parts of planning a holiday; packing. You need to be cautious while you pick what you need to carry, especially to a country like India. If you are traveling for the first time, then finding a lot of things that you didn’t carry in your luggage might be difficult in a foreign land. To help you plan a wonderful holiday and let you make the most of your time, here are a few essential things to add to your India packing list .

Table of Contents

Universal or India Power Adapter

A universal power adapter is one of the most essential things to pack for traveling. Be it your phone, tablet, or laptop, these gadgets need to be charged and for this, you will require your plugs to support the power sockets in India. To support any kind of charging pin, it’s better if you own a universal adapter, or if you are traveling to India, you can get one India power adapter. This will help you avoid running out of battery while taking pictures or while enjoying a good movie in your hotel room.

A Scarf or a Shawl

A shawl or scarf is one of the most versatile items that you must add to your India packing list. You can use it to shield your head from the glaring midday sun or drape it over for warmth during cool nights.   Further, Indian temples like Amritsar’s Golden Temple require visitors to cover up their heads on the temple premises. Most Indians use their dupatta or saree pallu for this. A scarf or a shawl that doubles as the head-covering veil comes to your rescue if you are planning to visit religious landmarks during your India trip.

Light, Breathable Clothes

As India is comparatively hotter than the western countries, it’s a great idea to pack light and breathable clothes of fabrics such as cotton. You can even opt for lighter color garments that will not attract heat. Wear cotton kurtas, shirts, or dresses to feel comfortable in tropical Indian weather.

Passport Size Photographs

You need to obtain special permits like Inner Line Permits (ILPs) from the local governments to gain entry to certain tourist places in India like Lakshadweep Islands, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, etc. Your passport-size photographs besides ID proofs might be needed for applying for these permits, so keep them handy just in case you decide to make an impromptu visit to these areas. If they are a part of your India itinerary, it is suggested that you apply for these special permits online in advance.

Reusable Water Bottle with an Inbuilt Filter

Given the tropical weather conditions in India, you must keep yourself hydrated during your travels across the country. Since tap water is not safe for drinking, travelers tend to rely on bottled water. But, try to avoid single-use plastic bottles and take the sustainable path. Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter so you can be assured of consuming safe filtered water.

India Packing List: Other Items

• Travel guides and maps
• Waterproof Daypack
• Season-specific essentials – umbrellas, raincoats, sweaters, hats,
• Activity-specific essentials – hiking shoes, hiking poles, camping gear

Travel Essentials Checklist

• Passport & Visa
• Travel insurance
• Flight tickets to India
• Trip Itinerary
• International driving license
• Vaccination Certificates
• Photocopies of all travel documents

Accessories

• Mobile charger
• Extra memory cards, batteries
• Suitcase locks

Travel First-aid Kit

• Regular Medication
• Prescriptions
• Charcoal tablets
• Mosquito Repellent
• Hand Sanitiser

These are some of the most essential things to pack when traveling to India. Did you find our India packing list useful? If yes, comment below and also let us know which of these items is your must-carry travel essential.

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India Healthy Travel Packing List

Pack items for your health and safety.

• You may not be able to purchase and pack all of these items, and some may not be relevant to you and your travel plans. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
• This list is general and may not include all the items you need. Check our Traveler Information Center for more information if you are a traveler with specific health needs, such as travelers who are pregnant, immune compromised, or traveling for a specific purpose like humanitarian aid work.
• Remember to pack extras of important health supplies in case of travel delays.

Prescription medicines

• Your prescriptions
• Travelers' diarrhea antibiotic
• Suture/syringe kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Altitude sickness medicine
• Medicine to prevent malaria

Medical supplies

• Glasses Consider packing spare glasses in case yours are damaged
• Contact lenses Consider packing spare contacts in case yours are damaged
• Needles or syringes (for diabetes, for example) Requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Suture kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Diabetes testing supplies
• Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens)
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace

Over-the-counter medicines

• Antihistamine
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cough drops
• Cough suppression/expectorant
• Decongestant
• Medicine for pain and fever Examples: acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen
• Mild laxative
• Mild sedative or other sleep aid
• Saline nose spray

Supplies to prevent illness or injury

• Hand sanitizer or wipes Alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol or antibacterial hand wipes
• Water purification tablets See CDC recommendations: Water Disinfection .
• Water purification tablets May be needed if camping or visiting remote areas
• Insect repellent Select an insect repellent based on CDC recommendations: Avoid Bug Bites
• Permethrin Permethrin is insect repellent for clothing. It may be needed if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Clothing can also be treated at home in advance.
• Bed net For protection against insect bites while sleeping
• Sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) with UVA and UVB protection. See Sun Exposure .
• Sunglasses and hat Wear for additional sun protection. A wide brim hat is preferred.
• Personal safety equipment Examples: child safety seats, bicycle helmets
• Latex condoms

First-aid kit

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antifungal ointments
• Antibacterial ointments
• Antiseptic wound cleanser
• Aloe gel For sunburns
• Insect bite treatment Anti-itch gel or cream
• Bandages Multiple sizes, gauze, and adhesive tape
• Moleskin or molefoam for blisters
• Elastic/compression bandage wrap For sprains and strains
• Disposable gloves
• Digital thermometer
• Scissors and safety pins
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Oral rehydration salts
• Health insurance documents Health insurance card (your regular plan and/or supplemental travel health insurance plan) and copies of claim forms
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination If required for your trip, take your completed International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis card or medical waiver
• Copies of all prescriptions Make sure prescriptions include generic names. Bring prescriptions for medicines, eye glasses/contacts, and other medical supplies.
• Family member or close contact remaining in the United States
• Health care provider(s) at home
• Lodging at your destination
• Hospitals or clinics (including emergency services) in your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country or countries

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India Travel Checklist for US Citizens – Best Places To See

Here is the best India travel guide cum India Travel Checklist for US citizens from preparation for eVisa to safety precautions to the best places to visit.

India, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse landscape, is on the bucket list of many travellers. As a US citizen, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. In this article, we will cover the preparation, eVisa application, landing in India, places to avoid, proper etiquette, and top places to see.

Table of Contents

A Comprehensive Guide to India for US Citizens

We present you a comprehensive guide to India for US Citizens, from research, preparation, visa procedures, and safety tips. Read on to check out this best India travel guide for US Citizens visiting India for the first time.

India Travel Checklist for US Citizens – Preparing For Your Trip To India

Research and planning.

To make the most of your trip to India, start by conducting thorough research on the regions you want to visit, local customs, and current travel advisories. Check the US Department of State website for any travel advisories and subscribe to their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates on safety and security information.

Health Precautions

Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and medications. The CDC recommends vaccines for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations, such as MMR and DPT. Consider carrying a first-aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and hand sanitiser.

Travel Insurance

It is advisable to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and other potential issues.

India Travel Checklist for US Citizens – India Visa For US Citizens

Evisa application.

The easiest and most convenient way for US citizens to obtain an Indian eVisa is through the online platform. Apply for an eVisa at least 4-7 days before your departure by visiting the official Indian government eVisa website. Follow these steps:

• Fill out the online application form with your personal details, travel plans, and passport information
• Upload a digital passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page
• Pay the eVisa fee using a credit or debit card
• Once approved, you will receive your eVisa via email. Print it and carry it with your passport during your trip

India Travel Checklist for US Citizens – Landing In India 

Customs and immigration.

Upon arrival in India, proceed to the immigration counter for passport control and eVisa verification. Keep your passport, eVisa, and a printed copy of your hotel reservation handy. Declare any dutiable goods and currencies exceeding $5,000 at the customs desk.

Transportation

Use authorized prepaid taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola to ensure safe and reliable transportation from the airport. Avoid unregistered taxis and touts offering transportation services.

Places To Avoid

While India has many beautiful destinations, some areas are best avoided due to safety and security concerns. Check the US Department of State’s travel advisories for up-to-date information on areas to avoid and commonly cited areas that are listed to avoid getting into trouble.

India Travel Checklist for US Citizens – Proper Etiquette

Respecting local customs and traditions is crucial while travelling in India. Here are some etiquette tips:

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering the temples
• Avoid public displays of affection, as they may be considered disrespectful
• Use your right hand for eating, exchanging money, and greeting people, as the left hand is considered inappropriate
• Seek permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites
• When invited to someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift like chocolates or sweets. Do not be surprised if the host refuses the gift once or twice before accepting it

India Travel Checklist for US Citizens – Best Places To See In India

India offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top places you should not miss:

The Golden Triangle

This popular tourist circuit consists of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Delhi, the capital city, boasts iconic landmarks such as the Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Red Fort. Agra is home to the magnificent Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, features stunning palaces and forts such as the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.

This coastal paradise offers pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort for a glimpse into Goa’s history.

Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is famous for its lush backwaters , palm-lined beaches, and verdant hills. Cruise the backwaters on a traditional houseboat, unwind on the serene beaches of Varkala and Kovalam, or explore the tea plantations in Munnar.

Varanasi | Kashi

As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi holds deep spiritual significance. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, take a boat ride along the Ganges at sunrise, and explore the city’s narrow lanes and ancient temples.

 For adventure enthusiasts, Ladakh is a must-visit destination. The rugged landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and ancient monasteries offer a captivating experience. Visit the famous Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Thiksey Monastery, and don’t miss the opportunity to drive through the world’s highest motorable road at Khardung La, or the breathtaking Changla Pass.

In Conclusion – Best India Travel Guide For Americans

A trip to India can be a life-changing experience, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. By following the tips outlined in this article, from preparation to proper etiquette, US citizens can make the most of their Indian adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.

We hope you liked reading our comprehensive guide to India and find it useful for planning your own trip to India, a country with endless possibilities. Do connect with us for more information or any clarifications that you may need. We are also available on all social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and Linkedin.

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Travel Checklist for India – Packing List for the India Traveler

A complete Travel Checklist for India  Vacations: Here’s a handy travel checklist for india of things that you should get along when you come to India. This Packing list for India includes most of the things are available in India, there may be some difference in quality, price, usability and it’s always a good idea to have familiar things around you. These all things are for a complete tour of India. There are chances that you may feel that few things are not required. But we want to provide a complete checklist for India. We will be dividing the complete India in our later blogs and posting the checklist on the later stage.

When a traveler decides to travel he or she will have three basic questions in their mind. Where? How? And What?

Where? Will be answered when you finalize the destination! How? Will be answered when you finalize the mode of travel! What? Will be answered when you finalize what you will be taking with you!

Here we will be answered the question what you need to take to your  India tour Package . You also can check with your Travel agent in India for a checklist. It will be easy to have travel checklist for India and they start preparing for the tour.

• Cotton trousers.
• A pair of shorts.
• Long cotton skirts for women.
• Light colored shirts and T-shirts (cotton).
• A hand towel.
• Good number of cotton underwear.
• A cap or a hat.
• Few warm sweater or jackets as it will be winters during  North India Tour .
• Sandals and easy slip-ins for frequent removals while visiting temples. Cotton socks to wear when you find the floor of such sites hot. Slippers if there are frequent long distances train travels.
• A pair of sneakers.
• Swimming gear.

• A small, handy and effective torch to be always carried along.
• A multi-purpose knife set like Swiss Army knife.
• Water purification tablets if visiting remote locations where mineral water is unavailable.
• Sunglasses.
• Sunscreen lotions (High factor)
• A pair of binoculars.
• A lightweight bed sheet.
• Mosquito repellent or mosquito net (lightweight, permethrin-impregnated).
• Hands and face tissues.
• An inflatable pillow. Neck-rest pillow for long bus journeys.
• Shower gel.
• Spare batteries.
• A small bag to be tucked at back to carry essential things while on sightseeing.
• Air cushions for hard seating.
• Shampoo and conditioner.
• Toilet paper
• Water bottle (handy).

• Your prescription medicines, if any, in labeled containers.
• Medicine for diarrhea (Imodium, Lomotil) and an upset stomach (Gelusil).
• Medicine for cough and cold, such as pseudoephedrine tablets (Sudafed) and cough syrups (Tossex, Linctus Codeine).
• Pain-relieving medicines, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin (Crocin, Disprin).
• Decongestants and antihistamines (Avil, Benadryl) for treating allergies.
• Antibiotic ointments (Neosporin), bandages, Band-Aids, surgical adhesive tape, sterile gauze, cotton-wool buds, corn pads.
• Medicines for preventing motion sickness, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and anti-nausea drug promethazine (Phenergan).
• Anti-infective ointments like cetrimide.
• Dusting powder for feet against fungal attack.
• First Aid kit alongwith syringes, needles, disposable gloves, scissors, tweezers, nail clippers, pocket knife, thermometer, and mirror.
• Chapsticks and vaseline are useful for colder climates; and a steroid cream (Eumosome) is helpful to relieve the itching caused by insect bites.

• Passport and VISA. Keep separate Photostat copies of your passport.
• Confirmed air tickets for all sectors.
• Clearly filled up vouchers of your tour operator with all service details.
• Contact persons’ names and round the clock numbers.
• All confirmed hotels names and addresses.
• Confirmation faxes/letters/e-mails from tour operator, hotels and other service providers already booked.
• Complete information on itinerary, sights, and important places of assistance.
• Spare passport-size photographs
• International driving license.

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Travel checklist for India

Last Updated on September 27, 2023

A checklist for simpler travel

Travel is all about adventure, a mixture of good and bad experiences which make you wiser too. You may not always anticipate the unprecedented travel adventures, but being prepared for the unexpected goes a long way. As the saying goes, prevention is better then cure, especially in a county as dynamic as India. Here are some essentials for a travel checklist for India.

These are our top priority items before we travel; some have been strongly suggested by our past guests while some are more obvious to navigate the country. Regardless, travel light to travel well.

Table of Contents

Padlock/ combination lock 

Easily available at any hardware store, this product yells ‘ light and secure’ better than any other. You will find a tiny padlock just about on every Indian traveler’s bag, and for good reason. 

Traveling in India by bus or train are the best modes of transport – cheap and convenient. Always secure your bag with the locks especially when travelling by bus or train. You could also latch your bag with a chain to your seats while napping during the long journey. Take it from us, to avoid any unpleasant obstacles, this one’s a must on your travel checklist for India.

Water bottle

Travelling can be tiresome in India with the occasional overcrowded cities, and the humidity takes a toll. However, don’t rely on water provided in restaurants or on public transport as it may contain impurities. Rarely at smaller stations or areas, water bottles are filled with tap water, re-sealed, and sold to make quick bucks – a scam you don’t want to fall prey to. Indian tap water is non-potable unless boiled or filtered. 

Equip yourself with a drinking water bottle, preferably a steel bottle over a plastic one to be a responsible traveller . This way you stay hydrated all the time. Only opt for branded, sealed water bottles provided at good hotels or general stores.

Power adapter

Buses that ply on long routes in India are furnished with plug points. Always keep an adapter on you to avoid drained cell phone and camera batteries. They may not always be punctual, so always carry a good book to pass the time in times of delay. 

The two or three-pin power sockets are used across India. A power adapter known as multi-plug adapter will be very resourceful. Though power cuts are frequent in villages and suburbs of the country, it’s not a point of concern in the metros. This is an important yet overlooked item on a travel checklist for India.

Toilet paper

A must in your travel checklist for India, this one goes in your hygiene kit. It’s very difficult to find a toilet paper roll in Indian public toilets. Indians believe in the concept of washing than wiping, which is why you’ll find buckets or bidets more often than toilet roll. Most hotels however, use western toilets. 

Travel first aid kit 

Indian street food is mind-blowingly delicious. Nonetheless, make Electrolytes necessary in your travel kit as the tempting cuisines may lead to travel diarrhea. Also ensure you have your necessary medicines, especially the anti- allergens. While band-aids and personal care items are always advisable, carry a mosquito repellent for the night. Though you may easily get them in Indian stores, the western brands have proven more effective. Carry sunscreen for the day.

Local sim card

If you plan on staying for a longer period, it’s very beneficial to obtain a local sim card. The local sim gets handy when you need local suggestions for places to eat, visit, or even stay. Being a 24*7 company, we at India Someday get in touch with guests anytime for emergencies. This ensures they have assistance on hand without us being too intrusive. 

Additionally, the sim cards help with coverage in places of high altitudes and outskirts of major cities.

Read on: Tips for Traveling from the UK to India

Not everyone enjoys a conversation with an chatty stranger, especially if you’re concentrating on a novel or the scenery around you. This is where ear-plugs/ headsets come to the rescue. It not only helps you adjust to an in-flight environment but tunes out loud noises and the chatter of groups of people.

atm Cards 

ATMs are easily found in metro cities and smaller suburbs. The only place you may have a hard time is when going into the hinterlands. You can easily withdraw money when you land but keep an eye on the service charges laid upon the standard exchange rate and bank charges.

To know more about foreign exchange, click on Exchanging Money in India  !

India Someday suggests tour ideas with the convenience of transportation, or can help you plan an entire itinerary from scratch.  Plan your trip and get ready for your adventure! 

About Joynel Vaz

They say, "Curiosity killed the cat". But it only helped Joy grow. If there's anything that Joy is proud about, it's his beer belly, his unrelenting love for food and his bicycle rides. Our money will always be on him if he gets in an eating competition. We feel that Joynel's love for offbeat destinations come from his ability to quietly go about his work. He might not know where he is going, but he always keeps a watchful eye on his guests and knows their whereabouts.

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India Travel Checklist

Entry india, llc | updated feb 26, 2020 08:40 am.

Whenever you are traveling to another country, you have to be prepared. Here is a checklist that you must follow before you begin with your travel abroad.

• If you have had your visa stamped earlier, then make sure it is valid.
• Keeping copies of your itinerary, visa, passport and other documents with close friends and relatives is a good idea. In case of any untoward incident like losing your passport, this will definitely be a lifesaver. 
• Keep your mail delivery on hold or have a neighbor collect it for you. That way, you won’t lose your mail and will maintain some degree of privacy that you are not at home.
• In case you want to travel with your US number, then talk to your service provider if they offer any package that allows you to use your US phone service in the destination country for less cost.
• You can buy travel and medical insurance coverage if you like.
• Keep your utility providers such as water, gas, and electricity informed that you will be away.
• You may want to leave the house keys along with a list of all your contacts’ names and numbers in the destination country with a relative or a friend of yours.
• If you are traveling during the colder months, ensure that your house is winterized. That way, you will not return to a frozen home or burst water pipes. 
• Check if your credit cards and debit cards can be used during your trip and inform these card issuers about your plans to travel to the destination country.  
• Cash is always a good option especially for India but a credit card with no international transaction fee when used abroad works equally well. 
• You must also make sure that your online banking services are activated. If you need any extra funds during the trip, you can have the money transferred online from your bank account to you at your place of accommodation or to an agent who is close by.

Now in case you are traveling to India , then here are some tips that will help you enjoy your trip better: 

• To get around within a city, use app-based travel services such as Uber or Ola. They allow you to make online payments and also ensure that you pay the correct price for each trip. 
• Getting a local mobile number is a good idea as several mobile apps that are very useful in India require a local number.
• You can get yourself a local mobile number at the Airport, where you land in India.  Alternatively, you can ask your hotel or AirBnB host to help you get a card as you will need several documents such as address proof and ID proof. 
• For more details on getting a local mobile number in India, click here .
• Always carry medicines for diarrhea, common cough and cold and other essentials. India has 24x7 medical stores in all metro cities. However, if you need the medicines to be delivered to you, you can use apps like Dunzo. In fact, Dunzo will get just about anything that you need delivered to your doorstep. 
• It is a good idea to carry charcoal tablets with you when you are traveling to India. They help prevent infections and food-related issues. 
• Finding medical assistance in India is relatively easy. From independent practices to major hospitals, you have everything that you need. To look for medical assistance close to you, you can use mobile apps like Just Dial and Practo. 
• Carry mosquito repellants and sunscreen with you at all times. 
• Always drink bottled water and opt for freshly cooked food when in India. Here is an article with specific details .
• 112- Emergency Helpline (equivalent to 911 in the USA)
• 100- Police
• 108- Medical Helpline 
• 102- Ambulance 
• 101- Fire Services 
• 181- Women’s helpline
• Pickpockets are common in crowded places. Use a neck wallet or keep your valuables under your clothing. 
• If you lose your passport or valuables, file an FIR (First Instant Report) at the nearest police station and contact the embassy of your country. The list of contact details for all the foreign embassies in India can be found here
• Thought travel insurance is not a must but advisable when you are traveling to India to cover medical expenses, loss of passport, luggage etc. 
• Cash withdrawals must be avoided as you end up paying a rather sizeable fee. Every transaction requires you to pay a fee to your bank and the bank whose ATM you use along with a foreign transaction fee. 
• The best way to transfer money from your International account when you are in India is to use a money transfer service provider. The money is transferred to your hotel or to a local agent for you to collect from. For details, click here .
• If you wish to make credit card transactions, make sure that you are aware of the international transaction fees. With cards like Barclaycard, Discover, Capital One and Bank of America travel rewards card, you do not have to pay any fee. 
• When in India, be prepared for a vast cultural difference. Here are some things that you should keep in mind: 
• Always leave your footwear outside a temple or religious place. 
• Carry a scarf or shawl with you as you may be required to cover your head in some places. 
• Find out about the type of clothing that is permitted in these places. 
• Alcohol is strictly prohibited in religious places as well as some monuments and historic sites. 
• Photography in most religious places, monuments, and even at some airports is strictly prohibited. So make sure you check before you click a picture.

Relevant Articles :

• Using US ATM debit card to withdraw cash in India
• During my trips to India…..I am absolutely against using ATMs to withdraw cash
• Credit card with zero international transaction fee and best USD to Indian rupee exchange rate
• How to protect foreign currency like US Dollars in cash when visiting India?
• How much a 10 day trip to India cost in US dollars?
• You can get the entire list of emergency numbers in India here

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Traveling To India Checklist - Everything You Need

Feeling a little overwhelmed planning your first trip to India? It's ok. Preparing for a trip to India can be a lot. There is so much to plan for, and communication can be difficult at times. We created this traveling to India checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Before we get started on what to pack, here are a few travel tips on planning your adventure to add your traveling to India checklist.

Travel Essentials for India

Step 1: book your flight.

The first step in planning your trip to India on our India travel checklist is booking your flight. Thank you Google Flights, for making it so easy to find and book cheap flights!  I like to fly into Delhi or Mumbai because they are large international airports with lots of connecting flights throughout India. If you miss a connecting flight, there is usually another one in a few hours. Generally, they also have the cheapest flights available.

Check the weather

1/2 the year in India is monsoon season. This mean's it rains not stop. Make sure you plan your trip for when the weather will be perfect. For Goa, that means December to March.

Skip the Layovers if you can

I prefer to fly direct whenever possible. But, if you have to, or want to have a layover (some people like to stretch their legs on land) here are a few tips.

If you are the type of person who gets stressed out traveling, make sure you have at least a 2-hour layover, or even 3. Anything less than that, and you risk running through the airport with your luggage trying not to miss your next connecting flight.

This is especially important if you have a connecting flight in India. Indian airlines are no-no-no-notorious (#biggiesmalls) for being delayed, so leave time between flights.

Pre-book your meals

The great thing about Indian airlines and generally any flights traveling to India is that there is always a veg option! But, if you have other special dietary needs, remember to pre-book your meal. Airlines offer special meals, like vegan, kosher, and other options for special diets and food restrictions at no additional charge.

Make sure to book this at least 48 hours in advance from your flight's departure. The airlines need time to arrange special meals. If you try to change your meal at the airport it’s almost always a no - I've tried.

Getting to the airport

Make sure you have a way to get to the airport. Ask a friend to drive you, book a car service, or if you feel comfortable leaving it to the last minute grab an UBER when you are ready to head out the door.

International Travel Checklist India: Flights

• book your flight
• pre-book your meal
• arrange for transportation to the airport

Step 2: Where are you going?

It is impossible to see all of India. Relax, you will get that "India experience" where ever you end up going. The biggest mistake I see people make is trying to cram too much into 2 weeks. There is something to be said for really getting to know a place, instead of trying to tick off as many boxes as possible. Pick a couple of spots and take time to actually explore them. If you are running around from one place to the next like a crazy person you aren't actually experiencing the culture - literally, this is because everything in India moves at a snail's pace. So be like the locals and take your time.

The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is one of the most popular tourist routes in India. It goes from Delhi to Agra (home of the Taj Mahal) and then to Jaipur. And there are detour cities you can see along the way like Pushkar (famous for camel rides) Jodhpur (the blue city), and Udaipur on beautiful lakes. Plan for about a week to do the Golden Triangle. And then maybe a week in another area of India.

For your second week, I recommend trying to pick places that might interest you. If you love crafts check out Ahmedabad and Kutch in Gujarat. If you want to let loose and party, try Goa, or if you want some Ayurveda and beach time Kerala might be your spot. Or maybe you just want to experience Varanasi. Every part of India is very different and offers something for everyone.

Tip: You will have the best Indian food of your life no matter where you go... You're in India.

India Travel Checklist: Destinations

• decide your travel interests
• pick a few cities
• pick some spots you want to check out in those cities
• learn to say no - don't try cram too much in, and go with the flow

Step 3: Where are you staying?

Now that you know where you are going. The next question is, where are you going to sleep? 

If you are coming on one of virtue + vice’s tours, we do this step for you. If you are traveling on your own, here are a few tips.

In big cities, I like to stay in Leela properties. The Leela is an Indian hotel chain. They are beautiful, impeccable properties, with greats facilities and restaurants, and a room is usually about $100.

My boyfriend was born in Bombay and grew up in Goa. His family has been staying in Leela properties since the ’60s. That is some serious brand loyalty.

Heritage hotels

I also love staying at heritage hotels. They can be a bit more hit or miss. And require a bit of research before booking.

Heritage hotels are palaces, castles, forts, and havelies that were built prior to 1950. The hotel must keep the original facade, architectural features, and general feel of the traditional way of life of that particular area.

Heritage hotels are cool for two reasons. The first is that they give you a local feel. When you travel through India every state, even every village, has a different palpable vibe. When I worked in product development I would stay in international chain hotels with high security, usually Shangri-La. This was because my boss was paranoid (especially in the Phillippines) about me getting kidnaped as a white woman traveling alone. While the hotels were beautiful, it didn’t matter where I was in the world, they all felt the same. Heritage hotels really let you fully immersify yourself in the local culture.

The second reason heritage hotels are amazing is because they are generally very nice and well kept, and cheaper than large chain hotels. You definitely get more bang for your buck in a heritage hotel than a chain in India.

To give you a head start on searching for heritage hotels check out Neemrana Hotels . If you want to live like Indian royalty but at a backpackers budget, this chain is for you!

If you are on a tight budget, that’s cool too, check out HOSTELWORLD . This gives great reviews of hostels all over India. Many hostels in India now offer private rooms with private bathrooms that will run you around $15. I love this option because it gives you the community of a hostel environment, but you get your own space. A room in a dorm will be about $5-$7 per night, and there are always female only dorm room options which I prefer. If you are going to be staying in hostels I would even consider bringing a sleeping bag.

If you are looking for a place to start in your India hostel search check out Zostel. Zostel is a well-known brand of hostel chains in Ind

Zostel hostel in Bombay

I would skip it. U nless you plan to be in one spot for a very long time. There are so many amazing and affordable lodging options in India that I would use before the headache that Airbnb can sometimes become.  

India Travel Checklist: Accommodations

Decide your budget

Decide your comfort level

Research and book

Step 4: Getting around

When you first arrive in India you are going to be tired, and the airport is going to be hectic. Men will try and grab your bag as you walk outside. Don’t get nervous. They do this because they want you to tip them for carrying your bag.

It depends on where I am and where I am going but I often like to pre-arrange my transportation to the hotel. Especially if I am alone and arriving at night, which is usually the case.

Hotel car service

When you book your hotel room, contact the hotel by email and ask for them to arrange a car. This is quick, safe, and the least stressful option possible.

You can also arrange for hotel cars to take you to all the sightseeing and shopping places you want to go to.

India finally has UBER. And, another app called  Ola . You can book one of those when you arrive. Be careful to specify what kind of vehicle you want. In India, you can call a motorcycle or tuk-tuk on these apps. If you have luggage make sure to get a car.

Recently in India UBER has become unsafe, so exercise caution. Drivers will rig the locks to trap you in the car. I know a few people that this has happened to, so always exercise caution. Tourists at the airport are especially a target.

Whenever I get into an UBER in India I always share my ride with someone, even if it’s my parents at home in the NY. This way they can watch exactly where my car is going and if they are starting to go off course. There is also a panic button built into the UBER app that will allow you to contact UBER immediately to let them know if there is an emergency.

Pre-paid airport taxi

Never get in a car with a random taxi driver. Pre-paid taxi drivers at the airport have special licenses, and they are tracked. Love it or hate it, part of traveling in India is a ton of paperwork. Everything you do is being tracked on paper. This offers credibility and a level of safety. If you just get into a car with a random person, well, there is no way of knowing who they are or where they came from.

tuk-tuks and motorcycles

I know, tourists love riding in tuk-tuks and on motorbikes. Don't get me wrong they are fun. But they are dangerous.

First, you are most likely going to get ripped off. They are going to take you on detours to their "friends" that have the best of whatever it is, you name it. They do this because they have agreements that whatever you buy at these shops they get a cut of.

Usually, you can just say no, take me to where I want to go. But, sometimes you get really pushy drivers who will take you where they want you to go.

The other thing is, a lot of them spend the day drinking. Driving in India is crazy, make sure your driver is sober. I have gotten out of cars and tuk-tuks and walked.

If you get on a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

I don't care if you don't see local people wearing them. Or, if your friends say it's fine not to. I don't understand why people think it's cool not to wear helmets. Here is a fact, every person I know that has actually spent time in India knows someone that died in a bike accident.

This is tough love. Don't be an idiot, wear a helmet.

Private Driver

Ask around. Anyone that spends significant time in India has a network of private drivers where ever they go. You find these guys through referrals from friends. Drivers can keep you safe and look out for you, or they can be dangerous. Again, safety is key here. You want someone that has been used by a friend or acquaintance for years without any issues. If you need help finding a private driver in India reach out , we're happy to help connect you!

I always book my round trip ticket first, and then my domestic India flights after. Domestic flights in India are generally pretty reasonable, sometimes I book my flights in advance, but usually because of the nature of my job (I never know where I am going to be needed) I book them 24 hours in advance or even the same day.

For domestic India flights, I love using the Cleartrip website  and app. I connect my mobile number and they even send me discounts for future flights and updates on my flight status.

India Travel Checklist: Getting around

• Decide your comfort and safety level
• Ask around for referrals
• Book it in advance

Step 5: Don’t forget your passport and visa

This is super important. To enter India your passport must be valid for 6 months after entry. Make sure your passport is not expiring anytime soon. And, you also need this to apply for your Indian visa.

Both me and my boyfriend have had to spend all day at consulates renewing our passports two days before we were supposed to travel. It’s possible to get passports in 24 hours. But, it's super stressful. Learn from our mistakes.

E-visas are amazing

Unless you are planning to travel to India all the time, there is no reason to get a 10-year visa. The India visa application process takes forever, seriously, be prepared to spend at least two full working days at the visa office waiting around. Just get an Indian visa online.

The e-visa application is super easy, all the Indian visa requirements are listed out.  And, it takes about 30 minutes to fill out and you get approval within 3 days.

Here is a great guide to filling out e-visa applications .

India Travel Checklist: passport and visa

• Do you have at least 6 months on your visa from the date you arrive in India?
• Apply for your e-visa, it only takes 3 days but try to get it done early in case there are any issues

Step 6: Plan for the Unexpected

Travel insurance.

Get this! Companies like  Allianz  and  World Nomads offer cheap insurance that will even medivac you out if something happens.

Hospitals in India are cheap, they won't put you into debt as they do here in the states. BUT, they are sometimes really bad. Prepare for the worst and have the options of being transported to better care if you need it.

India Travel Checklist: emergency situations

• get travel insurance!

Step 7: paying for stuff

Credit cards and debit cards.

Before you leave, call your credit card companies and let them know you will be out of the country. I once forgot to do this when I was in China. Chase locked me out of my account and told me that to regain access I would have to fly back to America and visit a branch in person with my identification. What?! Luckily I had another credit card with me.

To avoid this, just give your bank a call and let them know when and where you will be traveling.

If you can, try to bring a credit card that does not have foreign transaction fees. I love my Chase Saphire Reserve. It offers $300 travel credit every year, access to VIP lounges in airports, 3% points on all travel expenses, and no foreign transaction fees. This card isn’t just great for India, it’s great of any type of travel.

The major businesses in India take credit cards. So whenever possible I like to try and use my card and save my cash for the smaller mom and pop shops and markets that do not take credit cards.

How much should you bring?

Do you plan on doing a lot of shopping? Are you going all out and buying silks, jewels, and home decor for everyone you know? Or are you just getting a couple of little things?

In general, it is always good to have a bit of cash on you in India. Don’t bring too much though, getting robbed is actually quite common in India. 

I have found that exchange rates are higher in the states, so bring dollars and change to rupees in India. You can change at hotels, banks, and even kiosks at the mall.

What if I run out of cash in India?

There are also ATM’s at banks where you can take out rupees, but you will be charged fees.

India Travel Checklist: Money

• call your bank and let them know when and where you will be traveling
• Take some cash

Step 8: Packing Lists

Ok. Now that everything is set up for your arrival in India, let's get packing for India!

Suitcase vs backpack

That’s a personal preference. But, here are a few questions you can ask yourself to help make the decision.

First, and most importantly. Do you really want to lug all of your things around on your back?

Suitcases with wheels can be so much easier, especially if you have a bad back

What is the infrastructure like? 

If you are going to someplace like India where the roads and sidewalks are often more potholes then actual road, a backpack might be easier then trying to pull a suitcase.

But, wait. This might not matter if you are in a private car the whole time.

What is your transportation?

If you are in private cars and planes then a suitcase is no big deal, and you don’t have to worry about the condition of roads. But, if you are traveling around on trains, buses, and motorbikes, a backpack is best.

Are you staying in hostels or worried about getting robbed? 

If you are, then choose a suitcase. It weird. Backpackers always opt for backpacks, but in a hostel environment (sometimes they have a locker you can lock but not always) it’s nice to be able to lock a suitcase up.

What kind of souvenirs are you going to buy?

If you like to buy art or other fragile things a suitcase is best to keep them safe. Especially a hard suitcase.

Can’t decide?

Try a combo like Patagonia’s Wheeled Duffel Bag .

Personally, when I am in India I use this REI backpack .

For a hard suitcase, I choose Briggs & Riley . Yes, to spend $650 on a suitcase sounds almost crazy. But, hear me out. The company has been around for 25 years and offers a lifetime warranty (I never trust startups that offer a lifetime warranty, who knows if they will be around tomorrow?).

The way I travel, my bags take a beating. The popular startup brand AWAY will run you about $250, while that sounds much more reasonable, they only offer a 2-year warranty. So if you like to buy your things to last you forever, make an investment and go with Briggs & Riley.

Shop My Travel Bag Recommendations 

For my carry-on, I also prefer a backpack. When I travel I keep most of my electronics like my phone, laptop, and camera in my backpack. Do yourself a favor and buy a waterproof backpack. I love Lululemon Everywhere Backpack. While you are on the road, especially in India, you never know what is going to come your way or if you will get caught in a downpour. Keep your expensive electronics safe with a waterproof backpack.

Along with my electronics, I always pack the following travel gear in my carry on.

A change of clothes and underwear

My luggage has been lost a lot (another downside to short connecting flights) I can’t tell you how many times having a change of clothes has come in handy. I always back something comfortable, just in case my emergency outfit will be functioning as pajamas as well. Here is my go-to emergency outfit.

I love this JCrew Lunya Washable Silk Pant Set . I am one of those people who wear their pajamas out of the house. And with these babies, it’s totally acceptable. They are especially perfect for when you are traveling and have a 6 am flight, and are just feeling too jet lagged and lazy to change out of your PJs.

I also bring a couple of items to make the trip a little more bearable.

Earplugs or noise canceling headphones

Because I am always next to a screaming kid. If you fly Indian air carriers for some reason there are always a lot of babies and kids on the flight. And, parents generally allow them to play and scream through the isles. If you want to get some sleep earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are a must. I love Bose QuietComfort .

Speaking of sleep this eye mask and neck pillow is a must. Especially if you are in economy class. I very rarely take business. To me, it’s kind of a waste. I am dealing with people who literally can’t afford needed surgeries to live, it seems a little hypocritical to send and $3,000 to travel #firstclasseverywhere.

So to get through the flight grab an  Evolution Travel Pillow by Cabeau  that is made out of memory foam and a Lunya washable silk sleep mask (ultimate luxury).

Electrolytes

Starting to drink Pedialyte on flights was a game changer. There is something about airplane air that really effects me. Maybe because I am in a constant state of dehydration. When I started mixing my water with Pedialyte I found long-haul flights felt less brutal.

Dehydration also really messes with your skin. When I was traveling every other month, back and forth from China to NYC at my old job, my skin was a mess. That is until I started using sheet masks on the plane. If might sound a little forward, but lots of people do it. Especially on long-haul flights from the states to Asia. Trust me your skin will thank you for it. I love this Farmacy mask that is specially made for hydrating with coconut.

I always bring a few snacks because I have a tendency to get hangry if I don’t eat regularly. And sometimes it’s hard to find veg-friendly options while traveling to India depending on where you have a layover. India is great for people with dietary restrictions (things like gluten-free and vegetarian are available everywhere), so in terms of food to pack for travel to India you don't need to go crazy with a suitcase full of protein bars.

But, it's always nice to veg out on the plane, So, here are some of my favs.

Dang Original Sticky Rice Chips - these are my guilty pleasure

Saffron Road Sea Salt Crunchy Chickpeas - gotta make sure I have some protein

Primal Vegan Jerky - more protein, these do have soy, so I try to limit how often I eat them, traveling is a perfect excuse

Trader Joe’s sweet savory and tart trail mix

***I know a lot of people worry about the safety of drinking water while in India. Don't worry! Everywhere you go there will be safe bottled water to drink.

Medications and essential items

If you need medications, bring them with you on the plane. I always keep Advil with me for migraines . Any medication that you take regularly, or might need in an emergency, like an epi-pen, make sure it’s on the plane with you.

Wallet/passport holder

I have never been a very organized person. So I opt not to use a passport holder. That is just one more thing for me to lose track of. Instead I have this amazing wallet by Rebecca Minkoff Large Zip Around Wallet . It’s big enough to hold my passport and has different compartments where I can organize different currencies and cards. I know it’s leather, I know it’s not ethically made. But, I got mine at Century 21 for super cheap and I am going on my 4th year using it.

India Travel Checklist: Carry-on

• electronics
• anything you might want on a 16+ hour plane ride!

Checked Luggage

What to wear in India stresses most travelers out. And it is the most common question (aside from helping to arrange accommodations for people) I get asked about. What should I wear so I don’t offend anyone?

I always tell people to keep it modest. Showing your belly is totally ok, but make sure the top is loose and not skin tight. Also, while many girls do not cover their shoulders I like to keep my shoulders covered for the most part, especially if I am traveling alone.

Keep pants loose. India may be the land of yoga, but yoga pants are a no-no. When women wear leggings, they pair them with a kurta, which is a long loose dress that extends down to mid-calf. You don’t really want your butt or legs showing in India (except Goa).

Every time I am in India, without fail I always see a tourist that is decked out in some sort of princess jasmine outfit. Don’t be that girl.

people will stare

Ladies, especially if you are white and blonde, men will stare at you. But, you know what? So will women. That is because in some places they never see white people, so you are, to them, a spectacle. Just to be clear, creepy men will stare at you also.

Here is what I recommend bringing for two weeks in India

You will notice that most of the brands I buy are not sustainable or ethical. When I first got into sustainable fashion I decided I would only buy conscious brands. Guess what? I didn’t really like anything that I bought. Why should I have to settle for something that I like a little bit less because it was made ethically? Those pieces of conscious clothing just end up sitting in my closet never to be worn. I want the clothes that fit me the best and that I will actually wear. I

Anyway. To offset my guilt about buying fashion made by “evil” brands. I make sure I go past the 30 wears challenge. I try to buy pieces that I will wear regularly and that will be part of my core wardrobe for at least 3 years.

So let’s get started - my must have travel items for India

When and where are you traveling?

First off, what time of year are you traveling? If you are going to north India in December and January you will need some warmer clothes. When people think India, they often think blistering heat. That is not always the case. In January in Delhi, the weather is a high of 67 and low of 43, think LA weather. Warm during the day, but cool at night. Remember to back some warm layering clothes

Don’t over pack you are going to want lots of room in your suitcase to shop! And, don’t worry if you forget something. It will just give you an excuse to do more shopping!

4 short sleeve shirts

Madewell is my go-to for t-shirts. They do a great job creating basics with tiny details that give just a bit of style without having to actually try to look cute.  

4 tank tops

remember if you are going cropped, keep them loose

2-3 Layering Tops

Because, it can get cool at night.

1 kimono or cardigan

To cover up your shoulders if needed

1 sweater for layering

"always take a sweatah" - said in my best Jewish mom accent.

1 long-sleeve button-down shirt

This is versatile. You can wear it as a top, or as a coverup.

L*Space is one of my favs. And, now they make an eco-line!

Check out my guide to sustainable swim here . 

1 long ankle length skirt

I actually tend to wear more skirts than pants. I find them more comfortable in the heat.

1 pair jeans

Easy and versatile. Plus they tend to be a little on the warmer side if you are going to be in cold weather

1 pair loose pants

Flowy,loose, comfortable fabric. When I am on the road traveling I want to be comfy, not stuck in jeans.

2 pair shorts

(if you are going to GOA, when it comes to clothing, anything goes in Goa.) I always bring one jean pair and one athletic pair

1 maxi dress

Ok, a little self-promotion here. I literally designed this dress for traveling in India , shoulders covered - check, long enough, check, not too tight or revealing, check and check.

Or, try one of these.  

staying warm

If it is the rainy season make sure it is waterproof I love this vegan leather moto jacket that is waterproof and perfect for unpredictable weather.

PULL&BEAR Leather Effect Biker Jacket

1 pair Yoga leggings

While you can’t wear them as real pants in India, yoga leggings are allowed in yoga and sports classes. Leggings are also great to layer underpants when temperatures drop.

I have been a big fan of Athleta workout gear for a while now and wear  Athleta High Rise Chaturanga Tight

1 pair pajamas, these  are some of my favorites.

1 pair sandals

Havaianas . I have been a huge fan of Havaianas since the early 2000s. They are only $18 and last. In India, you want to wear sandals (chappas) to make your life easier. When you enter into a store, office, or someones home you are expected to take your shoes off. Waterproof sandals are also a must if you are staying in hostels for the bathroom and showers.

1 real shoe

Converse . Again, I have been wearing my Chuck Taylors since middle school. They are basically part of my identity at this point. Bring a pair of cheap sneakers that you do not care about to India. India is dusty. And the color of the dirt is red (because it contains a lot of iron). Your shoes will get ruined, that’s just how it goes.

2 pairs socks

I buy my socks at Costco in bulk. 8 pairs of $9. Yes, I usually buy mens socks instead of women's. I find they are usually a little bit better quality. 

1 underwire bra

Natori Feathers Bra is the only bra I wear. Seasonal colors always end up going on sale eventually so I buy them when they are discounted.

(These are the best for long plane rides, and layered under tank tops)

Parade Bralette

1 sports bra

I always forget to pack a sports bra for some reason. Usually, when I fly into India I go through Mumbai, so the mall always ends up being my first stop to buy a sports bra. At this point every sports bra I own is Nike , and I bought in India.

15 pairs of underwear

American Eagle Undies are the only underwear I buy, 10 pairs for $35. They are comfy, they last, and they are affordable.

India Travel Checklist: Packing

• choose your bags
• keep the things you want on the plane and valuables in your carry-on
• pack everything else in your checked luggage

Toiletries 

Tampons/ diva cup.

For my female travelers - tampons are hard to find in many Asian countries because most women use pads. You can sometimes find them in specialty stores, but they are hard to come by. So bring them. I am not going to get into what types of tampons I use, if you need advice on that I think you are reading the wrong blog.

I have not tried the diva cup, but I know some women like it while traveling.

All my makeup is cruelty-free and non-toxic. Credo is my go too for all this type of stuff. Skincare and makeup is deeply personal, so I'll spare you with what works for me, instead check out this shop .

Stick to your normal skincare regimen. If I am going to be out in the sun a lot I like to skip my nightly retinol and replace it with a moisturizer. Eucerin Q10 Anti-wrinkle is amazing for dried out airplane skin.

Sun protection

I never leave the house without sunscreen. This past October SunBum gave me some free product to test out while I was in the Maldives. And, I am obsessed. They recently came out with a mineral line which I love instead of chemical sunscreens.

Medications, again.

If you need medications, like to live, don’t forget them. And, it's always a good idea to bring with you a basic first aid kit.

I know a lot of tourists like to stock up on antibiotics and other emergency meds “just in case”. But, getting prescription medications is really easy in India. Most things we need a prescription for here in the states are sold over the counter at pharmacies in India, and for a fraction of the price.

Wet wipes antibacterial toilet paper

India is dirty. Some people can embrace the dirt, some people can’t. You know who you are. If you are a clean freak bring wet wipes and antibacterial soap.

Toilet paper. In India water is used instead of toilet paper. There are two systems for this. The fist is a big bucket filled with water with a smaller cup that you use to splash water on yourself, and the second is a squirting hose (like what you would find on a kitchen sink). It takes a little getting used to. But, if you are the kind of person that doesn’t do well with change. Bring a roll of toilet paper.

Hotels and hostels will usually have toilet paper, and you can buy it in stores.

India Travel Checklist: Clothes

• first, pack your core tops and bottoms
• remember to bring layering pieces for warmth
• don't forget pjs, socks, and undies
• and of course, toiletries and meds

Electronics & Misc.

Power adapter.

You will need to convert your power plugs

India uses types C, D, and M power plugs. Even this can be confusing because there are three different kinds. So get a universal converter this way your plug will work no matter what.

Buying a sim card in India

For about $20 you can get a large data and phone plan. Don't buy a sim card at the airport, you will get ripped off. Cell service in India is spotty. So the carrier to choose depends on where you will be traveling. Before you buy a sim ask a few locals what they use, then buy that one.

Buying a sim card in India can be a little tricky. Make sure to bring a 2”x2” passport photo of yourself to give to the phone store. Without the photo, they will not be able to issue you a sim card.

Learn some of the lingo

Duolingo just came out with their English to Hindi program. While most people in India speak English, it is always fun to pick up a few local phrases. The only place I have ever encountered people that do not speak English is on isolated tribal land. And you won’t be able to go there because you tourists need special visas and paperwork to be allowed access. So don’t stress communication won’t be as difficult as you think. Just remember to speak slowly.

Apps to have

Before you go download google translate. I can’t tell you how many times this has totally saved me.

Gifts if your visiting people

If you are visiting people bring a gift. Something small like sweets or candy from your hometown is perfect. Or if you have visited them before, people love when you come back and bring them a print of photos you may have taken with them from the last trip.

India Travel Checklist: Final Packing Tips

• if you forget to pack something, just consider it an excuse to go shopping!

Need help planning your trip to India? Something we didn't cover in our India packing checklist? Email us or leave us a comment! India peeps, would you like to see a India to USA travel checklist?

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