More: When to visit India · India travel guide
🇮🇳 India Packing List
Complete packing list for India based on its monsoon-influenced climate.
Climate & weather
India has three seasons. Winter (October-March) is cool and dry — best for travel. Summer (April-June) is extreme — 40°C+ in north. Monsoon (July-September) brings heavy rains, especially on west coast. Mountains stay cool year-round.
Must-have items for India
Modest clothing
Cover shoulders, knees, and chest. Light cotton kurta, harem pants, or long skirts work everywhere.
Bottled water filter (LifeStraw/SteriPen)
Tap water unsafe. Use filtered or sealed bottled water only.
Hand sanitizer + wet wipes
Many bathrooms lack soap and toilet paper. Carry both.
Imodium + electrolyte tablets
"Delhi belly" affects ~50% of travelers. Be prepared.
Mosquito repellent (30%+ DEET)
Dengue + malaria risk. Apply at dusk/dawn especially.
Lightweight scarf/sarong
For temples (head cover), sun protection, picnic blanket.
Sturdy sandals + closed shoes
Sandals for general wear, closed shoes for rural/temple visits.
Cash (small bills)
Many places cash-only. Withdraw at SBI/HDFC ATMs for best rates.
SIM card photo copies
Need passport copy + photo for India SIM. Get pre-cut for Airtel/Jio.
Indian outlet adapter (Type D/M)
Indian-style 3-prong plug. Universal adapter must have Type D.
Travel tips
- Avoid eating raw vegetables and salads (water-washed). Stick to hot, freshly-cooked food.
- Negotiate rickshaw fares before getting in. Use Uber/Ola apps for transparent pricing.
- Cover head/shoulders when entering temples and gurdwaras.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon in most regions.
- Tipping (baksheesh) is appreciated but small amounts (10-50 rupees) suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for India?
The essentials include modest clothing, bottled water filter (lifestraw/steripen), and hand sanitizer + wet wipes. See the full list above.
What's the weather like in India?
India has three seasons. Winter (October-March) is cool and dry — best for travel. Summer (April-June) is extreme — 40°C+ in north. Monsoon (July-September) brings heavy rains, especially on west coast. Mountains stay cool year-round.
How heavy should my luggage be?
For a 7-14 day trip, a carry-on (22-23 kg / 50 lb) is sufficient. Check airline limits.
Gear that earns its place: best universal travel adapters · best one-bag travel backpacks.