What to Pack for India: The Complete Packing List (by Season)

Pack for India once and you'll never overthink it again. The golden rules: light, modest and layered. You want breathable clothes that respect local culture, a small health kit, and the handful of things that are annoying to find on the road. Here's the complete list, plus how it shifts by season.

The one-bag rule: Modest, light cotton clothing + a scarf + a compact health kit + universal adapter + copies of your documents. Almost everything else you can buy cheaply in India if you forget it.

Clothing (the modest, breathable basics)

• Light cotton/linen trousers, long skirts or dresses.
• Tops with sleeves that cover the shoulders.
• A scarf or shawl — for temples, gurdwaras, sun and chilly mornings.
• Comfortable closed walking shoes + easy slip-on sandals (shoes come off a lot).
• A light layer/fleece — evenings in the north and Rishikesh get cool.
• Modest swimwear if your trip has a pool (many resorts do).

Health & Toiletries

• Rehydration salts (ORS), anti-diarrhoeal, paracetamol, any personal meds.
• Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, tissues (public loos may lack paper).
• High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent.
• A basic first-aid kit — plasters, antiseptic.

Tech & Documents

• Universal power adapter (India uses types C/D/M) + power bank.
• Phone with an eSIM or space for a local SIM.
• Printed + digital copies of passport, visa, insurance and bookings.
• Some US$/€ cash to exchange, plus a card with low foreign fees.

By Season

• Winter (Oct–Mar) — peak season. Warm days, cool evenings in the north; pack layers. Ideal for the Golden Triangle.
• Summer (Apr–Jun). Very hot — loose light clothing, sun protection, stay hydrated.
• Monsoon (Jul–Sep). A light rain jacket, quick-dry clothes and sandals with grip.

What to Leave at Home

Revealing clothing, valuables/expensive jewellery you'd hate to lose, and "just in case" bulk — pharmacies and markets are everywhere and cheap.

For the bigger picture, see our first-time India guide and what to wear in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack for a trip to India?

Light, modest cotton clothing (shoulders and knees covered), a scarf, comfortable walking shoes, a small health kit (rehydration salts, basic meds, hand sanitiser, tissues), sunscreen, a universal adapter and copies of your documents. Add layers for cool northern evenings.

What should female travellers wear in India?

Loose, modest clothing — light trousers or long skirts, tops with sleeves, and a scarf for temples and sun. This respects local culture and reduces unwanted attention while keeping you cool.

Do I need to pack medicine for India?

Bring a small kit: rehydration salts (ORS), an anti-diarrhoeal, paracetamol, any personal prescriptions, plus hand sanitiser and tissues. Most items are cheaply available in Indian pharmacies if you run out.

What kind of power adapter does India use?

India uses plug types C, D and M at 230V. A universal travel adapter covers you, and a power bank is handy for long sightseeing days and travel days.

Everything Sorted but the Packing

On our trips, the logistics are handled — you just bring the right bag. See our upcoming departures or the Golden Triangle Diwali & Yoga Retreat.