Should I pack a sleeping bag?

No. India is warm, and hostels/guesthouses provide bedding. Pack a silk sleep sack instead - it's lighter and protects against questionable sheets.

How much cash should I carry?

Carry $200-300 USD in new, clean bills plus 10,000 rupees in small denominations. ATMs are common but can run out of cash, especially in smaller towns.

Do I need hiking boots?

Only if you're trekking in the Himalayas. Otherwise, comfortable walking shoes and sandals are enough. Your feet will swell in the heat anyway.

Should I pack Western medicine or buy locally?

Bring your prescription medications from home. Indian pharmacies are good, but stick to familiar brands for serious medications. Generic names are the same worldwide.

How to Pack a Backpack for a Month-Long Trip Through India

Pack light with versatile layers, bring medicine for stomach issues, and leave 30% of your pack empty for purchases. Focus on quick-dry fabrics and pack like you're doing laundry every 3 days.

Choose the right backpack size. Get a 45-55L backpack. Anything bigger and you'll overpack. Test it loaded with 15kg at the store - if your shoulders hurt after 10 minutes, try a different model.
Pack your medical kit first. Bottom of the bag: Imodium, oral rehydration salts, ciprofloxacin (prescription), hand sanitizer, and water purification tablets. You'll need these more than extra clothes.
Pack 7 days of clothes maximum. 2 quick-dry t-shirts, 1 long-sleeve shirt, 2 pairs of convertible pants, 1 pair of shorts, 7 pairs of underwear, 4 pairs of socks. Everything synthetic or merino wool.
Layer system for varied climates. Pack one warm layer (fleece or down jacket) and one rain jacket. India's AC buses are freezing, and monsoon season hits hard in some regions.
Tech and documents in waterproof pouches. Passport copies, phone, power bank, universal adapter, and emergency cash in separate waterproof bags. Indian monsoons will soak everything.
Leave 30% space for purchases. You'll buy clothes, souvenirs, and books. Pack like you're coming home with a fuller bag, because you are.

Should I pack a sleeping bag?: No. India is warm, and hostels/guesthouses provide bedding. Pack a silk sleep sack instead - it's lighter and protects against questionable sheets.
How much cash should I carry?: Carry $200-300 USD in new, clean bills plus 10,000 rupees in small denominations. ATMs are common but can run out of cash, especially in smaller towns.
Do I need hiking boots?: Only if you're trekking in the Himalayas. Otherwise, comfortable walking shoes and sandals are enough. Your feet will swell in the heat anyway.
Should I pack Western medicine or buy locally?: Bring your prescription medications from home. Indian pharmacies are good, but stick to familiar brands for serious medications. Generic names are the same worldwide.