Too much stuff or just right? Keep it simple in India
Comfort is the main priority when traveling. This is especially true in India, a country comprised of four vastly different regions. From the northern stretches where trekkers take delight in snow capped mountain peaks to the sandy beaches of South India; To the arid desert expanse and dusty inland farm fields of the western reaches to the cooler forest packed hills of Northeast India, having the right items in your luggage is essential.
Adjust this list of what to pack for India, based on length of stay, reasons for travel, I.E. Business vs. Vacation, or regions visited. Keep in mind that laundry facilities are easy to find in major cities and regional hubs, especially at the hotels. This will help to keep the amount of items packed to a minimum. And you’re never far from a local market selling anything from cheap underwear to heavy shawls/wraps and jackets.
Clothing for the Average Tourist
2 – 3 pants: Avoid heavy jeans if traveling during the hot season. Quick drying, light travel type trousers are best. Some are fitted with internal secure pockets. Look for a material which can be washed and dried overnight.
Ladies: Long skirts or wrap-around skirts are comfortable and functional. You can avoid showing too much skin and have no worries if presented with an Indian toilet.
2 shorts maximum: To be worn on hotel property only. You will not be allowed inside mosques, some temples, and/or other tourists destinations if wearing shorts.
3 short sleeve t-shirts: Use for sleepwear, layering under button down oxford shirts to control sweat issues, or for fitness.
2 long sleeve t-shirts: These shirts are great for cooler night time walking or paired with trousers during the day to avoid too much sun.
Ladies: A medium weight cotton version in various colors is a perfect go-to top. Conservative yet comfortable.
3 – 4 button down oxford shirts: The best way to avoid the tourist image. Simple solids or basic patterns, nothing flashy. Sleeves can be rolled up in hot weather.
Ladies: Tunic-like light cotton tops are essential “uniforms”. Pair this with a locally purchased shawl and khaki trousers for a smart, comfortable and worry free clothing option.
1 – 2 polos: Nicer look than a t-shirt but cooler than a button down oxford.
7 pairs of socks
7 pairs of moisture-wicking, non-chafe, fast-drying underwear, preferably colored.
1 flip flop or sandal for showers and temple visits: It’s fine to wear these on the street, be mindful of open sewers and trash piles where hidden obstacles can be present.
1 pair comfortable sneakers: Regardless of the type of India traveler, everyone will experience lots of walking.
1 pair comfortable street shoes: Leather is acceptable, no open toes. Wear these to dinners, special occasions or short sightseeing trips.
Swim trunks/Bathing Suit: For the hotel pool
Sunglasses: Avoid gaudy brand names emblazoned on the sides. Simple, understated.
Hat: Baseball is OK but preferably a safari wide brim hat
Lightweight fleece vest or jacket: Cool nights are common in the desert, hill stations.
Belt(s): Remember this accessory
TIP: Bring clothes in dark neutrals that you can mix and match. Pack shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits. Avoid white as the dust and pollution can cause ring around the collar, discoloring stains while traveling and are easily see-through bringing you unwanted attention.
Ladies: Leave the bikinis, halter tops, tube tops, spaghetti straps, shorts, mini-skirts and anything over the top at home. Dressing “sexy” here will either offend or attract the wrong kind of attention. Plan to shop once you arrive. Look for a locally made blouse or a delicate scarf (dupatta) or shawl worn over your western-style clothes.
Men: Avoid wearing brand names. You will see some younger Indian men in the cities wearing brand specific clothing, but, your aim in India is not to draw unwanted attention as a tourist.
Toiletries
First Aid Kit: Be smart and bring the basics. Prepackaged kits can be purchased at most corner drug stores but watch the size.
Antifungal cream
Antibacterial cream
Antihistamine
Contacts & solution
Contraception: Condoms, birth control pills. These can be hard to find items in India
Decongestant
Diarrhea medication: Cipro, Immodium
Pain relievers: Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil
Iodine tablets: For safe drinking water
Laxative
Sunscreen
Throat lozenges: A must need for first time travelers who will experience a cold within the first few days of arriving
Doxycycline: Malaria preventative
Cirproflaxin: At least one 5 day course for serious digestive issues
Melatonin: Natural sleeping and jet-lag agent
Hand Wipes: Packaged wet naps, an essential item for any bag
Bum Wipes: Same as above but for the backside. Not all toilets have TP or faucets.
Nail clippers, file
Pepto-Bismol tablets: calms upset stomachs
Bug spray: Many will advise DEET versions, natural organic work fine.
Soap: Available in the market and most hotels (except budget). I still like to bring my own
Shampoo/Conditioner
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Hair gel/wax/spray
Mouthwash: Travel size can last a long time
Razor and Shaving Cream
Tweezers
Make-up: Limited amount, saves space and the heat and humidity will have you wiping it off with sweat in no time.
Tampons/Sanitary Products
Vitamin supplements
Basics
Airline Tickets: Print a copy of your eTicket itienrary (USA/UK). Check in online (where possible) on the day of your travels. Otherwise, pack paper tickets from airlines.
Passport: Most important. You will be asked for this more times than you can imagine. Remember to complete the India Visa application in advance of traveling.
Cash: Currency from your home country equal to roughly $500 USD.
Traveler’s Checks: Since these are insured against theft or loss, bring the equivalent of $500 USD along with the original receipt which includes replacement information and contact numbers.
Credit Card(s) + Debit Card: This will be a life source for payments and access to cash during travel.
Travel Documents: Copies of Passport, ID, Visa, Credit cards, Flight itineraries, Hotel reservations (if any), Travel agency contact info and itinerary, Travel/trip insurance policy, vaccination records.
Business Cards: Optional, this is a commonly requested item among the mid-range to luxury traveler. Exchanging cards is simple and a fantastic way to build your network.
Passport Photos: Have a spare set (or 2) taken in your home country. This is a valuable time and stress saver in case of a lost passport and Visa.
Misc. Items
Small plastic sandwich bags: Amazing how handy these are while traveling. No need to bring an entire box.
Quick dry towel: Regardless of which budget you travel India under, a super thirsty, quick drying towel is essential.
Bandana: Perfect for keeping pollution, dust, sand and wind out of your mouth and nose.
Pocket knife: Bring a small and nimble version. It’s a tool that pays for itself nearly everyday.
Lock: Helpful item when traveling by train or wanting some extra protection leaving bags in hostels, budget hotels.
Money belt: Good for safe keeping of money and passport, also great when combined with a neck pouch.
Ear plugs: Essential item. Bring lots of these.
Travel TP/Tissues: Enough until you reach a local market.
Food
Energy Bars: Great for snacking on long car trips, plane rides or to calm upset stomachs
Gum: Hard to find, especially your favorite brands
Electronics
iPod, iPhone, iPad, Blackberry: Performs a variety of functions such as email, calculator, pictures, alarm clock, calendar and more.
Camera: An essential item
Extra:
Camera batteries / Memory cards
Computer: Optional for many reasons
LED Torch/Flashlight: An essential item for the budget traveler
Travel
Guide books: Remember to only take the sections for areas which will be traveled. Reduces weight and needless information.
