How much should my pack weigh?

Aim for 12-15kg maximum. You'll be carrying it up stairs, onto trains, and through crowded areas. Indian transport often involves lifting your bag overhead or squeezing through tight spaces.

Can I buy things I forgot in India?

Yes, major cities have everything you need at low prices. Clothes, basic gear, and toiletries are widely available. Electronics and specialty items are pricier but findable in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

Laundry service is cheap (50 cents to $2 per load) and available everywhere. Pack for 5-7 days max and plan to wash regularly. Clothes dry quickly in most climates.

Do I need special shoes for temples?

You'll remove shoes at temples, so wear something easy to slip on and off. Closed-toe shoes protect your feet on streets, but flip-flops work for short temple visits if that's your main activity.

How to Pack for Solo Travel in India

Pack light with versatile layers, conservative clothing for temples, sturdy shoes for varied terrain, and a basic medical kit. Focus on comfort fabrics that dry quickly and cover your body appropriately. One backpack is enough.

Choose your bag. Get a 40-45L backpack with a daypack or internal compression system. Wheeled luggage doesn't work on most Indian roads and transport. Test the weight when fully packed - aim for under 15kg total.
Pack conservative clothing. Bring pants or long skirts that cover your legs, shirts that cover your shoulders and chest, and a light scarf for temple visits. Cotton and linen work best in the heat. Pack 5-7 days worth and plan to do laundry.
Include sturdy footwear. Pack closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, flip-flops for hotels and beaches, and socks that you can remove easily for temple visits. Your walking shoes should handle dust, mud, and long distances.
Prepare your medical kit. Include anti-diarrheal medication, oral rehydration salts, basic pain relievers, antiseptic cream, and any prescription medications you need. Pack 2 weeks extra of prescriptions in case of delays.
Add practical accessories. Bring a headlamp with extra batteries, portable phone charger, universal adapter, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a water bottle with purification tablets or built-in filter.

How much should my pack weigh?: Aim for 12-15kg maximum. You'll be carrying it up stairs, onto trains, and through crowded areas. Indian transport often involves lifting your bag overhead or squeezing through tight spaces.
Can I buy things I forgot in India?: Yes, major cities have everything you need at low prices. Clothes, basic gear, and toiletries are widely available. Electronics and specialty items are pricier but findable in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
What about laundry?: Laundry service is cheap (50 cents to $2 per load) and available everywhere. Pack for 5-7 days max and plan to wash regularly. Clothes dry quickly in most climates.
Do I need special shoes for temples?: You'll remove shoes at temples, so wear something easy to slip on and off. Closed-toe shoes protect your feet on streets, but flip-flops work for short temple visits if that's your main activity.