Do I need a suitcase or a backpack?

A backpack. Many streets, train stations, and alleyways in India have uneven, dusty, or unpaved ground that makes rolling a suitcase impossible.

Is it easy to buy clothes if I run out?

Very easy. You can buy cheap, comfortable cotton kurtas or trousers at almost any local market for under $10. Pack light and buy what you need there.

Do I need a heavy jacket?

Only if you are heading to the Himalayas or northern India in December/January. Otherwise, a light hoodie or fleece is sufficient for air-conditioned buses and night trains.

How to Pack for One Month in India

Pack for one week and plan to do laundry frequently. You need lightweight, breathable fabrics that cover your shoulders and knees to stay comfortable in the heat and respectful of local customs.

Select the right bag. Use a 40L to 45L backpack. Anything larger will be a burden on crowded trains and buses. Ensure it has a sturdy hip belt to distribute weight.
Layer for modesty and sun protection. Bring loose-fitting linen or cotton trousers and t-shirts. Avoid tank tops and shorts above the knee, as these are often considered inappropriate in temples and smaller towns.
Prepare for the 'dirty' reality. Pack a silk sleeping bag liner. It takes up no space, keeps you clean in budget accommodation, and provides a barrier against bedbugs.
Organize with compression cubes. Use three packing cubes: one for tops, one for bottoms, and one for undergarments. This makes finding items in low-light hostel dorms or train berths significantly faster.
Include a medical 'Go-Bag'. Bring a small pouch with Imodium, rehydration salts, hand sanitizer, and a basic first-aid kit with antiseptic wipes. Don't rely on finding specific brands of medicine on the road.

Do I need a suitcase or a backpack?: A backpack. Many streets, train stations, and alleyways in India have uneven, dusty, or unpaved ground that makes rolling a suitcase impossible.
Is it easy to buy clothes if I run out?: Very easy. You can buy cheap, comfortable cotton kurtas or trousers at almost any local market for under $10. Pack light and buy what you need there.
Do I need a heavy jacket?: Only if you are heading to the Himalayas or northern India in December/January. Otherwise, a light hoodie or fleece is sufficient for air-conditioned buses and night trains.