What to pack in your backpack (or suitcase) when traveling in India

Traveling in India isn't like a weekend getaway to Rome. There's heat, dust, noise, cultural changes, toilets without toilet paper, bites, and unexpected things every other day. So it's best to be prepared, but don't go overboard carrying unnecessary things. Here's what you need to know what really served us (and what not).

1. Earplugs and eye mask

It's no joke: the noise level In many cities it's unbelievable. Between the honking of horns, dogs, fireworks, and prayers through loudspeakers, sleeping without earplugs is difficult. And as there are no blinds, the eye mask also helps a lot to rest, especially if it dawns at 6 and you haven't slept a wink until 2.

2. Light, comfortable, and covering clothing

Pay attention: take clothing that covers your legs and shoulders, even if it's hot. Not by religious rule (although in some temples it is), but to protect yourselves from the sun and mosquitoes, and to avoid attracting attention. Loose T-shirts, linen pants, long skirts, or harem pants work very well. And you don't need to buy anything expensive; you can wash everything in two days or buy clothes there.

Also essential is some kind of cap or hat for the same reason.

3. Flip-flops and closed shoes

The flip-flops They will be useful for showers, for walking around the accommodation or for walking if you are going to the beach or more rural areas. But you also need a closed shoe, comfortable and durable for walking around town or to protect your feet in places where there is trash or mud (which there is). We wore sneakers and some basic flip-flops.

4. Wet wipes and/or tissues

In many bathrooms there is no toilet paper. What there is is a hose (the famous "bum gun") and that's it. And although we are huge fans of the hose, there are many bathrooms of dubious cleanliness where you want to touch as little as possible so it's better to always carry it with you wipes or tissues (after trying spicy Indian food you'll thank us hehe).

5. Basic first aid kit

Nothing crazy, but the bare minimum: paracetamol, something for diarrhea (type Fortasec), bandages, an antihistamine in case you get bitten by bugs, disinfectant, and some antibiotic-type cream. Also mosquito repellent with DEET, which is what really works. And if you're taking regular medication, bring extra, because finding exactly the same thing there can be a hassle.

6. Universal adapter

In India, plugs are usually the round European type, but in some places you'll find different plugs (especially if you're traveling through rural areas or older accommodations). It's best to bring a universal adapter with several options and a couple of USB ports in case there aren't many outlets in the room.

7. Sheet bag or microfiber towel

It's not mandatory, but it's saved us a couple of times. There are cheap accommodations where the cleanliness of the sheets is... questionable. Bring a fine cotton sheet bag It takes up little space and gives you peace of mind. You can also carry one microfiber towel of those that don't take up any space if you're obsessive about that.

8. Sunscreen and aftersun

Even if it's cloudy or there's haze/pollution, the sun is strong sunscreen It's quite expensive in India and isn't always of good quality, so it's best to bring it from home. And if you get burned (which happens), a aftersun or something like aloe vera is great.

9. Solid soap

If you go with a backpack without checking it in as we have done (and we totally recommend it), bring one solid soap bar It's a very good option to avoid saturating the bag with liquids. Normally, hotels have gel/shampoo, but we all know that the quality is usually not the best. In addition, we also use it for wash clothes emergency.

10. Photocopies of passport and visa

Take several passport copies, of the visa and the main tickets. Sometimes they ask for it when checking into your accommodation or at checkpoints, and it's more secure than constantly carrying the original. We carried a copy with us and another in the cloud just in case.

11. eSIM card

You can buy an Indian SIM as soon as you arrive (Airtel or Jio are usually the best) or, if your phone allows it, carry an eSIM purchased from home Having mobile data is very useful for using Google Maps, ordering Uber, searching for places to eat, or simply staying connected without relying on your accommodation's Wi-Fi. We actually use it often buy at the airport upon arrival, as it is usually much cheaper, but it has its drawbacks.

12. An anti-theft fanny pack or crossbody bag

India isn't dangerous in terms of robberies, but you do need to be careful in crowded places like stations or markets fanny pack or crossbody bag With secure zippers, it helps you avoid having to keep an eye on your pocket all the time. We use it mostly for carrying documentation and the cash controlled.

15. Hydroalcoholic gel

Imagine that after spending all morning wandering around the city and shaking hands with random people on the street (yes, it happens to you), you arrive home starving to eat and there's no soap in the restaurant's bathroom. Our saving grace on this trip has been the hydroalcoholic gel, we leave it there.

16. And what you don't need to bring (at least according to our experience)

• Hair dryer: With heat, hair dries in just 10 minutes.
• Elegant clothes: no need. Nobody dresses up to the nines.
• Paper guide: today everything is on Google Maps and your favorite blogs (like this one😍).
• Hardside suitcase: If you're going to be moving around a lot, a backpack is better. Trust us, you won't want to drag your suitcase through the narrow, busy streets of India.

If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement What to pack in your backpack (or suitcase) when traveling in India you can visit our posts about India.