Should I pack Western clothes or buy Indian clothes there?

Start with your own clothes, then buy Indian garments as you go. Local clothing is perfectly suited to the climate and often more comfortable than Western alternatives. Plus it's incredibly cheap and helps you blend in better.

How much cash should I carry versus relying on ATMs?

Carry $200-300 USD equivalent in mixed denominations as emergency backup. ATMs are widespread in cities but can be unreliable in rural areas. Inform your bank about India travel to avoid card blocks.

Is it safe to drink tap water with a portable purifier?

Stick to bottled water for drinking, even with a purifier. Use your purifier for brushing teeth and emergency situations only. The local bacteria strains can overwhelm even good filtration systems initially.

Should I pack sleeping gear for long-term India travel?

A silk sleep sheet is essential, but skip the sleeping bag unless you're doing serious mountain trekking. Accommodation is so affordable that camping is rarely necessary, and the climate is too hot for heavy sleep systems most of the year.

How to Pack for Long-Term Travel in India

Pack light, versatile clothing in breathable fabrics with layers for varying climates. Bring a strong stomach medication kit, reliable electronics protection, and focus on items you can't easily buy locally. Plan for 15-20kg total across backpack and daypack.

Choose the right luggage system. Use a 50-65L backpack as your main bag plus a 20L daypack. Avoid wheeled luggage - you'll encounter too many stairs, unpaved roads, and crowded spaces. Get a backpack with a detachable daypack if possible. Test the weight distribution before you go.
Pack for three climate zones. Bring layers for mountains (wool base layer, fleece, rain jacket), breathable cotton/linen for plains and cities, and lightweight quick-dry clothing for humid coastal areas. Pack 7-10 days worth of clothes maximum - you'll do laundry frequently.
Build a comprehensive medical kit. Pack oral rehydration salts, anti-diarrheal medication, broad-spectrum antibiotics (get prescription before leaving), anti-malarial pills if visiting risk areas, antiseptic cream, bandages, thermometer, and any personal prescription medications for your entire trip plus 30 days extra.
Protect your electronics religiously. Use a waterproof dry bag for your phone, camera, and chargers. Bring a universal adapter with surge protection, portable battery bank (20,000mAh minimum), and store backup photos online daily. Dust and monsoons will attack your gear constantly.
Pack minimal toiletries and basics. Bring 2-week supply of essentials only: toothbrush, small toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, sunscreen (SPF 50+), insect repellent with DEET. Everything else is available locally and often cheaper. Pack these in small containers.
Include India-specific essentials. Pack toilet paper (not always available), hand sanitizer, headlamp with extra batteries, padlock for lockers, quick-dry towel, mosquito net for questionable accommodations, and photocopies of passport stored separately from originals.

Should I pack Western clothes or buy Indian clothes there?: Start with your own clothes, then buy Indian garments as you go. Local clothing is perfectly suited to the climate and often more comfortable than Western alternatives. Plus it's incredibly cheap and helps you blend in better.
How much cash should I carry versus relying on ATMs?: Carry $200-300 USD equivalent in mixed denominations as emergency backup. ATMs are widespread in cities but can be unreliable in rural areas. Inform your bank about India travel to avoid card blocks.
Is it safe to drink tap water with a portable purifier?: Stick to bottled water for drinking, even with a purifier. Use your purifier for brushing teeth and emergency situations only. The local bacteria strains can overwhelm even good filtration systems initially.
Should I pack sleeping gear for long-term India travel?: A silk sleep sheet is essential, but skip the sleeping bag unless you're doing serious mountain trekking. Accommodation is so affordable that camping is rarely necessary, and the climate is too hot for heavy sleep systems most of the year.