Should I pack for all of India's climates before I go?

No. Pack for where you're starting, then buy appropriate clothes as you move to different regions. It's cheaper and more practical than carrying everything.

How much laundry will I actually do?

Laundry service costs $1-3 per load and is available everywhere. Most long-term travelers do laundry 2-3 times per week rather than carrying more clothes.

What if I can't find my size in Indian stores?

Bring extra underwear and one well-fitting pair of pants. Most other items are available in larger cities, and tailors can adjust anything for $2-5.

Do I need special clothes for monsoon season?

Quick-dry materials help, but you'll get soaked anyway. Pack one rain jacket and accept that clothes will be damp for weeks during heavy monsoons.

How to Pack Clothing for Long-Term Travel in India

Pack light, breathable fabrics in modest cuts, focusing on cotton and linen pieces you can layer and mix. Bring 7-10 days worth of clothes maximum - you'll buy more there for cheaper than what you paid at home, and local clothes work better in the climate.

Start with a foundation of cotton basics. Pack 3-4 cotton t-shirts, 2 long-sleeve cotton shirts, 2 pairs of cotton pants, and 1 pair of cotton shorts. Cotton breathes in humidity and dries faster than synthetic blends.
Add one warm layer for mountains and AC. Bring one light fleece or cotton hoodie. Indian buses, trains, and malls blast AC, and hill stations get cold at night even in summer.
Pack modest pieces that cover shoulders and knees. Bring clothes that work for temples and conservative areas. Long pants, shirts with sleeves, and a lightweight scarf for covering up when needed.
Include one nice outfit for special occasions. Pack one nicer shirt and pants for weddings, festivals, or upscale restaurants. Indians dress up more than Western backpackers typically do.
Bring quality undergarments and socks. Pack 7-8 pairs of good underwear and socks. These are harder to find in your size and preferred style in India, especially for women.
Add flip-flops and one pair of closed shoes. Flip-flops for daily wear (you'll take shoes off constantly). One pair of comfortable walking shoes for longer walks and monsoon puddles.
Plan to buy local clothes within your first week. Hit local markets for kurtas, cotton pants, and lightweight clothes. They're designed for the climate, cost $3-10 each, and make great souvenirs.

Should I pack for all of India's climates before I go?: No. Pack for where you're starting, then buy appropriate clothes as you move to different regions. It's cheaper and more practical than carrying everything.
How much laundry will I actually do?: Laundry service costs $1-3 per load and is available everywhere. Most long-term travelers do laundry 2-3 times per week rather than carrying more clothes.
What if I can't find my size in Indian stores?: Bring extra underwear and one well-fitting pair of pants. Most other items are available in larger cities, and tailors can adjust anything for $2-5.
Do I need special clothes for monsoon season?: Quick-dry materials help, but you'll get soaked anyway. Pack one rain jacket and accept that clothes will be damp for weeks during heavy monsoons.