Visiting India for the first time? This India packing list covers everything you need for a trip to this diverse, vibrant country — from modest clothing that respects local customs to heat-appropriate fabrics, medical essentials, and practical travel gear.
India Packing List: The Essentials
Clothing for India
- Loose, lightweight trousers or harem pants – Modest and cool; perfect for temples, markets, and rural areas.
- Lightweight long-sleeve tops – Sun protection and modesty at religious sites.
- Salwar kameez or kurta – Buy locally for a comfortable, culturally appropriate look.
- Breathable cotton or linen shirts – Avoid synthetic fabrics in India’s heat.
- Modest dresses or skirts (midi or maxi) – Easy to layer with a scarf for temple visits.
- Lightweight scarf or dupatta – For covering head/shoulders at mosques, temples, and gurudwaras.
- Warm layer – Essential if visiting hill stations, Rajasthan in winter, or high altitudes in the Himalayas.
- Swimwear – For Goa, Kerala backwaters, or resort pools.
Shoes for India
- Slip-on sandals or flip-flops – You’ll remove shoes frequently at temples.
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers – For cities, forts, and long sightseeing days.
- Thin socks – For cooler evenings or air-conditioned trains.
Health & Medical Essentials
- Prescribed malaria tablets – Check with your doctor based on your itinerary.
- Diarrhea medication (Imodium) – Delhi belly is common; always carry this.
- Oral rehydration salts (ORS) – Critical for preventing dehydration.
- Water purification tablets or SteriPen – Only drink filtered or bottled water.
- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+) – Mosquitoes carry dengue and malaria.
- Hand sanitizer – Carry a large bottle; hygiene standards vary widely.
- Prescription medications with documentation – Bring extra supply.
Accessories
- Money belt – Pickpocketing occurs in crowded markets and trains.
- Padlock – For locking hostel lockers or train compartment doors.
- Small day bag – A packable tote for local markets.
- Sunglasses & sun hat – The Indian sun is fierce, especially in Rajasthan.
Tech & Documents
- Type C/D adapter – India uses both round and round-pin plugs.
- Portable charger – Power cuts can occur in some regions.
- Local SIM card – Airtel and Jio offer affordable tourist SIMs at major airports.
- Copies of visa, passport, and insurance – Keep physical and digital copies.
India Packing Tips
- Pack light and buy locally — Indian markets sell beautiful, affordable clothes.
- Avoid tight or revealing clothing outside beach resorts and major cities.
- Always carry toilet paper or tissues — many public bathrooms don’t provide them.
- A sarong is one of the most versatile items you can bring.
For a detailed breakdown of outfits for different regions and seasons, see our complete guide on what to wear in India.