Namaste India!
Traveling to India’s Golden Triangle, which connects Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, is an experience unlike any other. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal and the peaceful landscapes of Ranthambore National Park, this nine-day India trip is packed with adventure, culture, and history.
The Golden Triangle has a dry, arid climate, with summer temperatures soaring past 100°F (37.8°C). Packing smartly will ensure you stay comfortable throughout your trip.
If you’re feeling a little anxious about what to bring, you’re not alone! India can be outside many people’s comfort zones but don’t worry, this comprehensive packing list will cover everything you need.
As a digital nomad who lives out of a suitcase for six months at a time, I’ve mastered the art of packing. I comfortably packed everything listed below in a carry-on for my India trip and never felt like I was missing anything.
Some of these items are India-specific, while others are solo traveler essentials for any adventure. Follow this guide, and you’ll be fully prepared for an incredible tour through the best of India’s Golden Triangle.
In this Guide to Packing for India, I’ll cover:
- Bags & Luggage
- Must-Bring Items
- Toiletries
- Stomach Essentials
- Optional Items
- Things to Leave Behind
Bags Carry-On Size Suitcase or Travel Backpack
Your India trip will include train rides, bus rides, and multiple hotel changes. You’ll be responsible for maneuvering your luggage through crowded train stations, dirt roads, and tuk-tuk rides, so pack light! A bag that you can comfortably carry up a flight of stairs will make your life much easier.
Crossbody Bag and/or Small Day Pack
A small, secure bag is necessary for your daily outings. I left my small day pack with items like my water bottle and phone charger on the bus while I took my cross-body bag with my cash, phone, hand sanitizer, and tissues into forts, mosques, and marketplaces.
Must-Bring Items for India
Money & Payment Methods
- Cash (Indian rupiah): Everyone’s spending habits are different, but I recommend exchanging $200-$300 at the start of your trip. I paid for everything with cash and spent just under $300 over the nine days. This money covered tipping guides, porters, and drivers, all food and drinks not included in the itinerary, a custom-made outfit, a massage, a Bollywood dance class, a skirt, a bag, a jacket, and my farewell tip for our amazing guide!
- Credit & Debit Cards: Apple Pay is not widely accepted in India so be sure to bring your physical cards.
- There are opportunities to visit an ATM or exchange additional money throughout the trip.
Electronics
- Adapter & Converter: India uses Type D plugs
- Phone/Camera
- Portable Charger: Days are packed, and you’ll want your phone fully charged for photos
Clothing (5-7 Outfits)
The most important thing to remember here is that India is a modest country with hot temperatures. It’s respectful to keep your shoulder, chest, back, midriff, and knees covered – this applies to men and women. Opt for lightweight, breathable, loose-fitting clothes to keep cool while maintaining modesty. Here is some inspiration for putting together outfits:
- Flowy Pants or Hiking Pants
- Long Skirts or Maxi Dresses: Natural fibers like linen or cotton work best in the heat
- Loose, Lightweight T-Shirts
- Bright, Colorful Clothing
- Button-Up Shirt: Great for additional coverage at religious sites and protection from the sun
- Lightweight Jacket: Even in summer, early mornings (especially for your safari day in Ranthambore National Park can be breezy
- Bathing Suit
- Socks & Underwear: I know it’s traveler 101 to overpack on underwear but for India, you should also overpack socks. You’ll need to take off your shoes for temples, and you’ll want to put on clean socks after.
- Hat & Sunglasses
- Scarf: You’ll need to cover your head to enter religious buildings. A scarf can also help keep the sun off your shoulders.
- You’ll have access to laundry facilities throughout the trip.
Shoes
- Comfortable Sneakers or Walking Shoes
- Sandals: Be sure they are comfortable for long days. You’ll also encounter mud, dust, and very wet bathroom floors, so consider that when deciding on any open-toed shoes.
Travel Documents
- Passport
- Secondary Identification: Driver’s License or State ID
- Health Insurance Card
- Printed Copy of India eVisa Approval
- Printed Copy of Accommodation Address
- Travel Insurance
Additional Items
- Reusable Water Bottle: Clean drinking water is available on the bus and at hotels for refills.
- Masks: The air quality in cities like Delhi can be poor. A few travelers on my trip wished they had brought N95 masks for even better protection.
Toiletries
There’s no Target in India to pop into, so pack carefully!
- Hand Sanitizer
- Sunscreen: Avoid sprays for a more environmentally friendly choice that’s easier to apply on the bus.
- Insect Repellent: Also, try to be eco-friendly and avoid aerosol. I used a gel, and someone else used a cream that worked well.
- Tissues: All the tissues!! Toilet paper is not promised in most bathrooms.
- Personal Medications: These must be in their original packaging with legible labels for customs. Specific health information for traveling to India can be found on the CDC’s website.
- Probiotics: Helps your digestive system adjust to new foods and strengthens your immune system while traveling.
- Mini First Aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, fever reducers, throat lozenges (air pollution can cause a mild sore throat), anti-itch cream, antibiotic cream
- Travel-Size Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant (unscented is best for safari day), toothbrush, toothpaste…you know what you need.
- Cosmetics
- Glasses & Contacts
- Tampons: Western-style tampons with applicators are not available in India. Plan accordingly.
Stomach Essentials
There’s a travel saying: If you bring an umbrella, it won’t rain, but the day you opt against an umbrella, it will rain. The same logic applies to preparing for Delhi Belly. No one on my trip got sick, thanks to our guide's advice and a little preparation. However, digestive discomfort can happen on any trip due to a change in routine, timezone, and diet. These items are your “umbrella” for India:
- Something for an Upset Stomach: Activated charcoal, ginger tablets, Imodium, Tums
- Something for Digestive Support: Fiber gummies, dandelion tea, Miralax
- Electrolytes: Stay hydrated!
- Emergency Snack: Protein bars, nuts, rice crackers
(I am not a doctor. These are suggestions but if you have any doubt about what works best for your body, please consult your primary care doctor or a specialty travel doctor.)
Optional Items to Bring to India
As a solo female traveler, I never go anywhere without these items.
Things to Leave Behind
- Water Bottle Filter/Purification Tablets: Two of us carried around Grayl bottles and it was a waste of space. Our guide made sure bottled or filtered water was available at all times.
- Revealing Clothing: Avoid spaghetti straps, shorts, leggings, and revealing tops. Please be mindful of local customs and dress modestly. Remember you are a guest in someone’s home country – be respectful!
- Brand-New White Sneakers or White Clothes: They won’t stay white.
- Expensive Jewelry: Avoid an unnecessary risk.
- Leather Goods: Cows are sacred in Hinduism, so leave leather shoes, belts, and bags at home.
You’re Ready To Travel
Following this packing list will prepare you for an incredible 9-day trip through India’s Golden Triangle. Packing light with the right clothing and essentials means you can focus on enjoying everything this vibrant and diverse region has to offer. Check out Under30Experiences trip to India, and the recap of my recent trip for more helpful information to guide your packing. Happy travels!
