Should I pack toilet paper?

Bring a small emergency supply. Most places have it now, but quality varies. Travel tissues work well as backup.

How much cash should I bring?

Bring $200-300 in clean, crisp US bills to exchange. ATMs are everywhere but have daily limits ($40-80) and fees add up.

Do I need malaria medication?

Depends on your destinations and season. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Many areas don't require it, but prevention is smart.

Can I do laundry easily?

Yes, laundry service is cheap ($1-3 per kg) and available everywhere. Pack for one week and wash as you go.

Should I bring gifts for locals?

Not necessary, but small items from your home country are appreciated by hosts or guides. Avoid expensive items that create awkward obligations.

How to Pack for Your First Trip to India

Pack light, breathable cotton clothes covering arms and legs, comfortable walking shoes, and essentials like hand sanitizer and a good daypack. Bring layers for air-conditioned spaces and modest clothing for temples. You can buy most toiletries and gear locally.

Choose the right luggage. Bring one medium suitcase (not huge) and a sturdy daypack. Indian roads are bumpy, airports crowded, and you'll be moving around a lot. Wheels break. A duffel bag with backpack straps works well.
Pack modest, breathable clothing. Bring loose cotton pants, long sleeves, and knee-length shorts minimum. Pack one nice outfit for upscale restaurants. Avoid tight clothing, short shorts, and tank tops. Cotton breathes better than synthetics in humidity.
Prepare your footwear strategy. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for uneven surfaces. Sandals you can slip on and off easily for temples. Flip-flops for hostel bathrooms. Your feet will swell in heat, so pack shoes that aren't tight.
Pack health and hygiene essentials. Hand sanitizer, travel tissues, wet wipes, basic first aid kit, and any prescription medications. Bring 3x what you think you need for stomach medicines. Pack tampons/pads if you use them - quality varies locally.
Include climate control items. Light scarf or shawl for temple visits and air-conditioned buses. Thin sweater for mountain areas or excessive AC. Sunhat, sunglasses, and strong sunscreen (SPF 30+). A small umbrella for sudden monsoon downpours.
Prepare technology and documents. Universal power adapter, portable charger, and phone with offline maps downloaded. Waterproof phone case. Physical copies of passport, visa, and travel insurance stored separately from originals.

Should I pack toilet paper?: Bring a small emergency supply. Most places have it now, but quality varies. Travel tissues work well as backup.
How much cash should I bring?: Bring $200-300 in clean, crisp US bills to exchange. ATMs are everywhere but have daily limits ($40-80) and fees add up.
Do I need malaria medication?: Depends on your destinations and season. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Many areas don't require it, but prevention is smart.
Can I do laundry easily?: Yes, laundry service is cheap ($1-3 per kg) and available everywhere. Pack for one week and wash as you go.
Should I bring gifts for locals?: Not necessary, but small items from your home country are appreciated by hosts or guides. Avoid expensive items that create awkward obligations.