Packing for India is different from packing for a typical beach holiday. It’s a country that engages all your senses at once, and your suitcase needs to be a practical toolkit for navigating its vibrant chaos, rich culture, and diverse climates. The goal isn’t just to have what you need, but to pack in a way that makes your journey smoother, more comfortable, and respectful. Forget frills and think function. Let’s build your ultimate India packing list.
The Golden Rule: Pack Light, Pack Right
Before we dive into the items, remember this mantra. You will be grateful for every ounce you don’t carry when you’re hauling your bag onto a train, into a rickshaw, or up a few flights of stairs. Choose a versatile, mix-and-match wardrobe and leave room for the beautiful things you’ll inevitably buy there.
Clothing: Modest and Practical is Key
What you wear in India matters. Dressing modestly is a sign of respect, helps you blend in, and protects you from the sun and dust. Think coverage and comfort.
For Everyone:
- Lightweight, Loose-Fitting Tops: Pack tops that cover your shoulders. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will be your best friends. A few t-shirts are fine, but avoid low-cut or sleeveless tops for general sightseeing.
- Comfortable Bottoms: For women, long skirts, loose trousers, or harem pants are perfect. For men, lightweight trousers or knee-length shorts are acceptable. Remember, you’ll be sitting on the floor in some temples and taking your shoes on and off frequently, so easy-to-remove items are a plus.
- A Trusty Scarf or Pashmina: This is the most versatile item you will pack. Use it to cover your head and shoulders in temples and mosques, drape it over your face in dusty auto-rickshaw rides, or use it as a light blanket on chilly air-conditioned buses. It’s a fashion accessory, a cultural tool, and a practical necessity all in one.
Specifically for Women:
While you’ll see a range of dress in big cities like Mumbai and Delhi, a conservative approach is appreciated everywhere. A simple, elegant solution is to buy a traditional salwar kameez or a kurti when you arrive. They are incredibly comfortable, culturally appropriate, and you’ll be supporting local tailors.
The Footwear Trio
Your shoe selection can make or break your trip. You need a combination that supports long days of walking while being easy to slip on and off.
- Sturdy, Broken-In Walking Shoes: A pair of comfortable sneakers or walking sandals (like Birkenstocks or Tevas) is essential for exploring cities and historical sites.
- Easy Slip-Ons: A pair of sandals or flip-flops that you can easily remove before entering homes, temples, and some shops. They are also crucial for shared hostel or hotel bathrooms.
- (Optional) One “Nice” Outfit with Matching Shoes: If you plan on dining at a upscale restaurant or attending a special event, one slightly dressier outfit and a pair of shoes to match is plenty.
Health and Hygiene: Your Non-Negotiable Kit
Staying healthy is the top priority, and a well-stocked medical kit is your first line of defense.
- Your Prescriptions: Bring enough for your entire trip, plus a little extra, in their original containers.
- General Meds: Pack a small supply of pain relievers, antihistamines for allergies, and anti-nausea medication.
- Stomach-Savers: This is crucial. Include a good probiotic to start taking before your trip, an anti-diarrheal like Imodium, and most importantly, a course of antibiotics for traveler’s diarrhea (consult your doctor for a prescription before you leave).
- Rehydration Salts: These little packets are a lifesaver if you get dehydrated from the heat or a stomach bug.
- Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: You will use these constantly. Keep a small bottle and a pack of wipes in your day bag at all times.
Don’t forget a high-SPF sunscreen and a strong insect repellent, especially if you’re traveling during or after the monsoon.
The Day Bag Essentials
What you carry with you every day is just as important as what’s in your suitcase.
- A Reusable Water Bottle: To cut down on plastic waste, bring a reusable bottle and fill it with filtered water. Many hotels and hostels have purifiers.
- Tissues or Toilet Paper: While facilities are improving, public restrooms often do not provide toilet paper. Carry a small roll or pack of tissues with you everywhere you go.
- Power Bank: Your phone will be your camera, map, and translator. A portable charger ensures you never run out of juice.
- Combination Lock: Useful for hostel lockers or securing your backpack on overnight trains.
Final Pro-Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Leave Room for Souvenirs: You’ll find beautiful textiles, crafts, and clothing. Pack a foldable duffel bag inside your suitcase for the return journey.
- Photocopy Your Documents: Keep a photocopy or a digital scan of your passport, visa, and insurance details separate from the originals.
- A Small First-Aid Kit: It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Packing for India is an exercise in smart, practical choices. By focusing on modesty, comfort, and health, you’re not just filling a bag—you’re preparing yourself to fully embrace one of the most incredible travel experiences on Earth. Now, you’re ready to go.
Your India Packing Questions, Answered
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get about what to pack for India.
What is the most important thing to pack for India?
Beyond your passport and visa, the single most important item is a comprehensive medical kit. This should include any personal prescriptions, a probiotic, anti-diarrheal medication, and most crucially, a course of antibiotics for traveler’s diarrhea (prescribed by your doctor). Staying healthy is the foundation of a good trip.
Is it okay to wear shorts in India?
For women, it’s generally best to avoid shorts and opt for loose-fitting trousers, long skirts, or capris that cover the knees. For men, knee-length shorts are acceptable in many places, but you will need long trousers for visiting religious sites. When in doubt, it’s always better to dress more modestly.
Do I really need to bring my own toilet paper?
Yes, you should. While major hotels will have it, many public restrooms, train stations, and smaller restaurants will not. Carrying a small roll or a pack of tissues in your day bag at all times is a non-negotiable tip for a comfortable experience.
What kind of bag should I use for daily sightseeing?
A secure cross-body bag or a small backpack is ideal. A cross-body bag is harder for someone to snatch and allows you to keep it in front of you in crowded markets. Whichever you choose, make sure it has a sturdy zipper and isn’t too flashy, to help you blend in and deter pickpockets.
Should I pack a power adapter?
Yes, India uses a unique 230V power outlet with three round pins (Type D). You will need a specific adapter for your electronics. It’s a good idea to bring a universal adapter or one specifically designed for India.