India
What to pack for India: clothing, plugs and season-by-season list
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for hot months, a warm layer for winter north, comfortable shoes, a universal adapter for C/D/M plugs, and a small first‑aid kit; upgrade if you travel to high altitudes or strict religious sites.
More
GuideIndia
Key facts
- Plugs
- Types C, D, M; 230 V 50 Hz
- Currency
- Indian rupee (INR, ₹); notes ₹10–500
Seasonal clothing guide
North (Delhi, Rajasthan, Himalayas) – Oct‑Mar is cool to cold; bring a fleece, light jacket and scarf. Summer (Apr‑Jun) can reach 40 °C; pack cotton shirts, loose trousers or skirts, and a wide‑brim hat.
South (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa) – Warm year‑round; breathable cotton or linen, rain‑proof jacket for monsoon (Jun‑Sep).
- T‑shirts / tops – 5–7
- Long‑sleeve shirts – 2 (for evenings or temples)
- Lightweight trousers / leggings – 3–4
- Shorts / skirts – 2–3 (avoid overly short in religious sites)
- Undergarments – enough for a week
- Socks – 5–7 pairs
- Comfortable walking shoes – 1 pair
- Sandals – 1 pair
- Warm layer (fleece or sweater) – 1
- Rain jacket / poncho – 1 (monsoon months)
- Hat / cap – 1
- Sunglasses – 1
- Scarf or shawl – 1 (for temples)
- Swimwear – 1 (if coastal or pool use)
Electronics and plugs
Bring a universal travel adapter that covers Type C, D and M plugs; most Indian hotels have 230 V 50 Hz sockets. A power bank (10 000 mAh) is useful for long train journeys.
- Universal adapter – 1
- Power bank – 1
- Phone charger – 1
- Camera charger – 1
- Headlamp or small flashlight – 1
Health and safety items
Carry a basic first‑aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain reliever, antihistamine). Pack any prescription medication in original packaging. For high‑altitude trips, include altitude sickness tablets.
- Small first‑aid kit – 1
- Prescription meds – as needed
- Altitude sickness tablets – if trekking Himalayas
- Hand sanitizer – 1 small bottle
- Reusable water bottle with filter – 1
Budget and weight considerations
A typical packing list weighs 8–12 kg. Keep luggage under 20 kg to avoid airline excess fees. Pack versatile items that can be layered.
Questions people ask
What should I know about packing list in India?
Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics for hot weather, a warm layer for cooler northern months, a universal adapter for C/D/M plugs, and a small first‑aid kit; adjust for altitude or religious dress codes.
How much does it cost?
Basic items (adapter, power bank, first‑aid kit) cost around ₹2,500–₹4,000 (≈ $30‑$50) in 2026; clothing depends on personal brand but a travel‑ready wardrobe can be assembled for ₹8,000–₹12,000 (≈ $100‑$150).
When should I plan for it?
Start assembling your list 4‑6 weeks before departure to buy any missing items, especially adapters and specialty gear for high‑altitude trekking.
Do I need a rain jacket?
Yes, if you travel during the monsoon (June‑September) in the south or western coast; a lightweight, breathable rain jacket works for most regions.
Are there any special dress rules?
When visiting temples, cover shoulders and knees; a scarf or shawl is handy. In conservative areas (Rajasthan, Punjab) modest clothing is appreciated.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about India
Loading…
Was this useful?