Travelling to India will probably be one of the most adventure filled trips you’ll have. India is like many countries in one, with the experience of a traveller who visits the north being very different to one who goes to the southern states of Kerala or Goa.
Planning what to pack for India with some thought can mean that your trip is more comfortable, practical, respectful and safe! Whether you are backpacking through Rajasthan, exploring Kerala’s backwaters, or visiting the bustling cities of Delhi and Mumbai, a well-thought-out India packing list is essential.
To make your journey smooth and enjoyable, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to pack for India, ensuring you stay comfortable, prepared, and culturally sensitive.
Luggage choices – Best luggage for India
Suitcase or Backpack?
The best luggage for India will depend on what type of trip you’re planning – are you going to be on & off local buses, are you going on a tour where your bag will be carefully removed from a private vehicle, are you staying in hotels or hostels?
If you’re going to take a suitcase to India, it will need to be a hardy one. Often your case will be thrown on the top of cars, stuffed under buses and generally knocked around a lot and I’ve had many cases not even last the trip – ending with me having to tape them up to fly home!
Level 8 suitcases are genuinely the best cases I’ve ever owned. They might be on the pricier end of the scale, but they last, they look great and they can withstand being thrown around. I’ve got the 28 inch large hard shell case and I couldn’t be happier with it!
The phrase ‘backpacking’ has changed somewhat over the years and many people don’t take a backpack as such on these trips. If I’m staying hostels and carrying my own bag often fairly long distances then I’d prefer a backpack as Indian streets can be tricky to pull along a suitcase. The Highlander comes up 65l & 85l and is waterproof, handy for if you’re visiting in the wet season.
One of the best luggage for India options is somewhere between a backpack & a suitcase and that’s the Osprey Wheeled Luggage. These type of bags are wheeled bags that also transform into a backpack with thick straps for when you aren’t able to drag your bag through mud or on uneven ground.
India Packing List – Clothes
I’ve written some full guides on what to pack for India clothes wise – In general I opt for loose trousers, with a vest top/t shirt and a scarf. Tight-fitting clothes like skinny jeans can be uncomfortable in India’s heat.
- Comfortable sandals like Birkenstocks are ideal as you’ll be walking a lot, but possibly taking your shoes off fairly regularly for temples etc. They’re also great as you can wear them casually or to a slightly more formal location.
- Long skirts or maxi dresses are great, but keep in mind that you don’t want clothes that trail on the floor.
- Loose-fitting khaki or linen trousers
- Comfortable t-shirts and vest tops – given the heat, I’ll often wear a vest top and then carry a scarf if I feel that I need to appear more modest.
- Loose fitting blouses or shirts – Great for dressing up and down and for covering shoulders when necessary.
- Scarves – Scarves are a must for your India packing list as they are so useful for covering shoulders at religious sites, shielding from dust, and adding warmth on cool nights. I always carry one with me as they can be used for many things (sarongs, towel, modesty item). Amazon have some nice well priced scarves that are lightweight and thin for the hot summer.
- If you’re travelling to Goa then you can be more liberal with your clothing choices – at many of the beach areas in Goa people dress as they would in Europe.
Essential Accessories for your India packing list
Electronics and Power Essentials
For India there are three associated plug types, types C, D and M. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins, plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern and plug type M is the plug which also has three round pins. India operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. The most common one is the two pin plug.
- Generally you’ll be fine with a Universal Plug Adapter but you might want to get an India specific adapter too so you’re not stuck if the plug types vary.
- A battery pack is a must for long car and bus journeys. A powerful one with built in cables is always helpful.
- An action camera is ideal for India as you’ll be exploring busy markets and doing a whole range of activities in various weathers. I used to be a Go Pro girl but I’m fully switched to the Osmo Action 5 now, it’s unbeatable for battery, has a brighter screen and comes with a mic.
Toiletries and Health Supplies for your India Packing list
Finding certain toiletries in India can be challenging especially in the more rural areas. So add some of these essentials to your India packing list.
- Mosquito repellent is a must, especially if you’re visiting some of the jungle or forest areas. Getting one with deet will be the best idea although if you’re looking for one with a less strong smell then the Avon skin so soft is lovely.
- Another handy one is dry shampoo. Great for overnight trains and other times when you aren’t able to shower.
- Suncream / sunscreen is best bought in your home country as it’s not readily available in India and can be very expensive. Consider getting factor 50.
- Basic medications will be available over the counter in India including some medications that you might require prescriptions for back home. Having said that, having paracetamol, plasters and a few other first aid items with you is a good idea.
- Make sure you’ve got toilet paper or tissues with you at all times.
- Hand Sanitiser is always handy to have with you.
- When I’ve spent extended periods of time in India I’ve found that my hair starts to come out more than normal. Having a good conditioner with you or hair oil can stop hair fall in India.
What to Pack for India: Other travel essentials
- A Money Belt for under your clothes is an essential item to pack for India, especially if you’re planning on visiting markets and busy areas.
- A refillable water bottle will be super handy for your trip. Firstly of course to cut down on plastic, but also because I’ve found that sometimes it’s hard to get cold water in India. My favourite bottles are Iglu, which keep your drinks cold even overnight!
- A day bag or bum bag will be handy for keeping hand sanitiser and tissues in.
- I don’t travel anywhere without my kindle. Especially if you’re planning on some long train journeys, then having a good book to read is a must!
India Packing List: Final Breakdown
Here’s a handy breakdown of what to pack for India.
Clothing
- 2 pairs of loose fitting trousers
- 3 x tank/vest tops
- 2 x linen scarves
- 1 long-sleeve button-down shirt (lightweight and breathable)
- 2 x lightweight maxi dress
- 2 x t-shirts (lightweight and breathable)
- 1 long skirt
- 5 pairs of underwear
- 5 pairs of socks (quick-dry)
- 2 bras
- 1 hoodie or lightweight sweater (for cooler evenings or air con on trains)
- 1 swimsuit/bikini (if planning to visit beaches or pools)
- 1 pair of comfortable trainers
- 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals
- 2 x pair of shorts (for southern beaches)
- Sunglasses / Cap
Toiletries & Health
- Sun cream
- Mosquito repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Dry shampoo
- Basic medications (paracetamol, antihistamines, rehydration sachets)
- Shampoo & Conditioner
Electronics & Travel Gear
- Universal plug adapter / India plug
- Battery Pack
- Camera
- Action Cam
- Extra camera batteries/memory card
- Secure money belt
- Reusable water bottle
- A book or Kindle
Final Packing Tips for India
- Pack Light! – Laundry services are widely available, and you’ll likely shop for clothing and souvenirs in India.
- Have fun with colour – India is a place where bright colours are worn with joy, so don’t worry about standing out – as a tourist you’re going to do that anyway!
- Plan for the Unexpected – From power cuts to delayed trains, be adaptable and keep an open mind. Battery packs, tissues, & a water bottle will make everything easier!
By following this India packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for an incredible journey across this fascinating country. Now that you know exactly what to pack for India, it’s time to embark on an unforgettable adventure!
