What to Pack for India
The following tips and suggestions are for your consideration:
Comfortable shoes – walking shoes such as sneakers/runners, sandals and a pair of dress shoes.
Long sleeve tops – long sleeve t-shirts and blouses help keep the sun off your arms and minimize the need for body sunscreen. Also, you can use them as layering pieces.
Layers and breathable clothing – the days can be warm and nights chilly, so be sure to pack layers. Cotton is breathable, but it takes a long time to dry. Consider quick-dry sportswear (such as socks) with moisture-wicking material that pulls perspiration away from your body. Tunics are handy.
Sari – bring a sari (saree) with you if you have one, or purchase it in Canada and learn how to drape it prior to your trip (YouTube videos). You can also have the sari material tailored into a skirt, so you don’t need to worry about how to tie it. You will opportunities to purchase one in India.
Light waterproof jacket and/or light sweater – during monsoon season (August-October), it rains a lot.
Scarf (or two) – Scarves can provide some warmth around the shoulders or neck, on the plane and also on land, and also to protect you from the sun. They take almost no room in your suitcase. They may also be used in places of worship, such as temples, if required to cover your shoulders. Choose a colour that matches all your outfits. Consider cashmere-silk blend or cotton.
Electronics – phone, charger, battery pack, headphones, load your iPad with movies and/or books to read on the plane. Also: camera, extra memory cards, batteries, battery charger, rain protector.
Sunscreen – face sunscreen is most important. If you wear long sleeves and pants/long skirts, you may not need body sunscreen all the time (keep in mind the tops of your feet if you wear sandals/flip flops).
Medication – obviously any necessary medication. Consider: Pepto Bismol and Grapeseed Oil in the event you get Delhi Belly (common). Consider flu shot prior to leaving (flu season in India is their winter and monsoon) – check with your doctor or local pharmacist.
Water bottle – a lightweight water bottle that you fill up with purchased bottled water or filtered water from the hotel (if you are comfortable doing so).
Copy of passport – keep a photocopy of your passport in your suitcase, in the event you may need it. Also, take a photo of it on your phone.
Copy of tour itinerary, flight and hotel details – consider putting all your travel documents in a plastic envelop or binder, and put screenshots on your phone.
Toiletries (e.g. face creams, dry shampoo) – consider sizes allowed on airlines.
Books – small paperback books are light. Hard covers are heavy to pack.
Snacks – protein bars, nuts, etc.
Tampons/Hygiene products
Bug spray
Notepad and pen
Mini compact umbrella
Credit card back-up – bring 2 credit cards, from different banking institutions, if feasible.
First Aid – band-aids for foot blisters
Notes:
It is best to bring with you all the basics that you will need. Even though you might be able to purchase clothing and the above items in India, you may not have enough time to go shopping for these items while on our program. It is better to be more prepared than to think you can shop for them while on your trip.
Consider the baggage weight allowance of your airline for your international flight; may be different than regional flights in India. Also, size allowance for liquids and gels.
