Should I pack toilet paper?

Bring a small emergency supply. Most places use water and your left hand, but tourist areas often have toilet paper. A small pack of tissues works for both bathroom and general cleaning needs.

How much cash should I carry?

Carry 10,000-15,000 rupees ($120-180) in mixed denominations. ATMs are common in cities but can run out of cash. Many places only accept cash. Keep money in multiple locations on your body.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

No, unless trekking in mountains. Hostels and hotels provide bedding. Bring a sleep sheet or travel towel instead - much lighter and covers hygiene concerns without the bulk.

What about mosquito protection?

Pack DEET repellent (20-30%) and permethrin-treated clothing if going to malaria areas. A small mosquito net isn't necessary for most travelers staying in standard accommodation.

How to Pack Essential Gear for Solo Travel in India

Pack a quality water purification system, versatile clothing for heat and temples, a reliable power bank, and basic medical supplies including anti-diarrheal medication. Your pack should handle 40°C heat, monsoon rains, and frequent power cuts while keeping you comfortable and safe traveling alone.

Pack water purification essentials. Bring a LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini filter plus water purification tablets as backup. A collapsible water bottle saves space. You'll refill constantly in this heat, and bottled water creates massive plastic waste.
Choose clothing for temples and climate. Pack lightweight long pants and shirts that cover shoulders and knees for temple visits. Quick-dry fabric is essential. Bring one warm layer for AC buses and mountain areas. Skip cotton except for underwear.
Prepare for power infrastructure challenges. Pack a 20,000mAh power bank minimum, universal adapter with India plugs, and a headlamp with extra batteries. Power cuts happen daily in many areas. Charge everything whenever you have reliable electricity.
Build your medical kit. Include anti-diarrheal medication (Imodium), oral rehydration salts, basic antibiotics if prescribed by your doctor, bandages, and antiseptic. Add any prescription medications plus 2 weeks extra. Pharmacies are common but quality varies.
Pack security and comfort essentials. Bring a quality padlock for hostel lockers, a money belt, copies of important documents stored separately from originals, and a small towel that dries quickly. A sleep mask and earplugs are crucial for trains and budget accommodation.

Should I pack toilet paper?: Bring a small emergency supply. Most places use water and your left hand, but tourist areas often have toilet paper. A small pack of tissues works for both bathroom and general cleaning needs.
How much cash should I carry?: Carry 10,000-15,000 rupees ($120-180) in mixed denominations. ATMs are common in cities but can run out of cash. Many places only accept cash. Keep money in multiple locations on your body.
Do I need a sleeping bag?: No, unless trekking in mountains. Hostels and hotels provide bedding. Bring a sleep sheet or travel towel instead - much lighter and covers hygiene concerns without the bulk.
What about mosquito protection?: Pack DEET repellent (20-30%) and permethrin-treated clothing if going to malaria areas. A small mosquito net isn't necessary for most travelers staying in standard accommodation.