Should I bring baby formula and diapers?

Bring a 3-4 day supply of formula and diapers, then buy more in Indian cities. Major brands are available in metros but rural areas have limited selection. Indian diaper brands work fine and cost less.

What shoes should kids wear?

Pack closed-toe shoes for temples and walking, plus sandals that are easy to slip off. Avoid new shoes - bring broken-in footwear only. Consider water shoes for beach destinations.

How much cash should I pack?

Bring $200-300 in clean, new USD bills to exchange on arrival. ATMs are common in cities but rural areas may have limited access. Keep cash in multiple locations.

Do I need special mosquito protection?

Yes. Pack DEET-based repellent (25% minimum), long sleeves for evening, and consider permethrin-treated clothing for jungle areas. Bring a small mosquito net for budget accommodations.

What documents should I carry daily?

Keep passport copies, visa printouts, and hotel contact info in a waterproof pouch. Leave originals in hotel safe. Store digital copies in cloud storage and email them to yourself.

What to Pack for Family Travel in India

Pack lightweight, modest clothing, strong sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and a first aid kit with anti-diarrheal medication. Bring entertainment for kids during long transport days and always carry wet wipes, snacks, and electrolyte packets.

Choose the right luggage. Pack in wheeled duffel bags or backpacks with wheels. Hard-shell suitcases get damaged on Indian transport. Bring one daypack per family member for daily outings.
Pack modest, practical clothing. Bring long pants and shirts that cover shoulders and knees for temple visits. Pack 2-3 lightweight cotton outfits per person per week. Include one warm layer for air-conditioned spaces and mountain destinations.
Assemble a comprehensive first aid kit. Include anti-diarrheal medication (Imodium), oral rehydration salts, antiseptic cream, bandages, thermometer, and any prescription medications. Bring 3x more than you think you'll need.
Pack sun and hygiene protection. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen (expensive in India), wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses for everyone. Pack hand sanitizer, wet wipes, tissues, and toilet paper in individual packs.
Prepare entertainment and comfort items. Download offline content for tablets, bring coloring books, small toys, and comfort items for kids. Pack earplugs and eye masks for the whole family for noisy accommodations.
Include practical electronics. Bring universal power adapters, portable phone chargers, headlamps or small flashlights. Pack all charging cables in a separate organizer pouch.

Should I bring baby formula and diapers?: Bring a 3-4 day supply of formula and diapers, then buy more in Indian cities. Major brands are available in metros but rural areas have limited selection. Indian diaper brands work fine and cost less.
What shoes should kids wear?: Pack closed-toe shoes for temples and walking, plus sandals that are easy to slip off. Avoid new shoes - bring broken-in footwear only. Consider water shoes for beach destinations.
How much cash should I pack?: Bring $200-300 in clean, new USD bills to exchange on arrival. ATMs are common in cities but rural areas may have limited access. Keep cash in multiple locations.
Do I need special mosquito protection?: Yes. Pack DEET-based repellent (25% minimum), long sleeves for evening, and consider permethrin-treated clothing for jungle areas. Bring a small mosquito net for budget accommodations.
What documents should I carry daily?: Keep passport copies, visa printouts, and hotel contact info in a waterproof pouch. Leave originals in hotel safe. Store digital copies in cloud storage and email them to yourself.