Should I pack toilet paper?

Bring a small supply for the first week while you adjust, but you can buy it everywhere in India. Most places use water and left hand instead.

How much cash should I bring?

Bring $200-300 in crisp US bills as backup. ATMs are everywhere but sometimes run out of cash or reject foreign cards. Cards work in cities but rural areas are still cash-heavy.

Do I need special vaccines?

Hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Japanese encephalitis if going rural. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from affected countries. See a travel clinic 6 weeks before departure.

Should I pack Western snacks?

Bring a few comfort foods for homesickness moments, but don't overpack. Indian snacks are incredible and you'll want luggage space for souvenirs.

How to Pack for Long-Term Travel in India

Pack light, breathable fabrics, sturdy shoes, and health essentials in a 40-50L backpack. Focus on versatile clothing that covers you appropriately, reliable gear for India's infrastructure challenges, and medicines you can't easily find there.

Choose the right bag. Get a 40-50L backpack with lockable zippers. Avoid rolling luggage - India's roads and train stations will destroy wheels. Add a 20L daypack for daily use and train journeys.
Pack for the climate. Bring 3-4 lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants in cotton or linen. Pack one warm layer for hill stations and AC buses. Include a rain jacket - monsoons are serious.
Get proper footwear. Pack sturdy walking shoes that can handle dust, mud, and rough surfaces. Add flip-flops for hostels and temples. Closed-toe shoes are essential - open shoes in Indian streets invite problems.
Prepare your health kit. Bring 2-3 months of any prescription medications plus copies of prescriptions. Pack water purification tablets, oral rehydration salts, anti-diarrheal medication, and basic first aid supplies.
Add infrastructure backup gear. Pack a good headlamp for power cuts, universal adapter with surge protection, portable phone charger, and quick-dry towel. Hotel towels are often questionable.
Include cultural essentials. Bring modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for temples. Pack a sarong for beach towns and extra coverage. Add a small padlock for hostel lockers.

Should I pack toilet paper?: Bring a small supply for the first week while you adjust, but you can buy it everywhere in India. Most places use water and left hand instead.
How much cash should I bring?: Bring $200-300 in crisp US bills as backup. ATMs are everywhere but sometimes run out of cash or reject foreign cards. Cards work in cities but rural areas are still cash-heavy.
Do I need special vaccines?: Hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Japanese encephalitis if going rural. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from affected countries. See a travel clinic 6 weeks before departure.
Should I pack Western snacks?: Bring a few comfort foods for homesickness moments, but don't overpack. Indian snacks are incredible and you'll want luggage space for souvenirs.