Traveling To India? Pack These Essentials In Your Baggage!

India is a challenging place to travel, but it's also one of the most amazing. Before you go, you'll need to think carefully about what to pack. The climate varies, and you'll need to be prepared for whatever India throws at you.

- A good backpack

- A camera

- A rain jacket

- Travel insurance

- A money belt

- A reusable water bottle

- A headlamp

- A first aid kit

- A portable power bank

- A Kindle

- A copy of your passport

- Some cash

Clothes: lightweight, loose-fitting, long-sleeved, modest clothing

When packing for India, it's important to consider the country's varied climate and relatively strict and reserved religious culture. Here are some recommendations and tips for packing modest, lightweight, loose-fitting, and long-sleeved clothing for your trip:

Clothing Recommendations:

• Pack light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
• For women, long skirts, loose pants, and tunics are ideal. You can also pack airy dresses that cover your knees.
• For men, lightweight trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and loose-fitting pants are suitable.
• Consider purchasing local clothing like kurtas, which are comfortable and affordable.
• Bring a light shawl or scarf to cover your arms and shoulders when visiting religious sites.
• Avoid packing skinny jeans and other tight clothing.

Additional Tips:

• The weather in India can vary by region and season, so check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
• It's generally hot in most parts of India, so focus on light and breathable clothing.
• You can always buy clothing in India if needed, as it's known for its affordable and high-quality options.
• Don't forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Be prepared for cooler evenings with a lightweight jacket or hoodie.
• If you plan to visit temples or other religious sites, ensure your clothing covers your shoulders and knees.

Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc

When packing toiletries for a trip to India, it's important to consider the limitations of your luggage, the availability of certain products in India, and the unique challenges of travelling in the country. Here are some recommendations and tips for packing toiletries:

• Downsize your toiletries: Travel-size containers are often larger than necessary, so consider decanting your products into smaller containers. This saves space and weight in your luggage.
• Choose multi-use products: Opt for products that can serve multiple purposes, such as Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps, which can be used as hand soap, body soap, and shampoo.
• Replace liquids with solids: Solid toiletries, such as shampoo bars and insect repellent sticks, can help you meet carry-on liquid requirements and save space.
• Buy toiletries in India: Many generic products, such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste, are widely available in India. This can save you space in your luggage, but be aware that your preferred brands and specific products may not be available.
• Toilet paper and wet wipes: Carry these with you, as many public toilets in India may not have toilet paper.
• Hand sanitiser: It's a good idea to have hand sanitiser with you to clean your hands regularly, especially before eating.
• Shampoo and conditioner: These are readily available in India, but if you have a preferred brand, consider bringing travel-size containers or decanting them into smaller bottles.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are essential items to maintain your oral hygiene. Consider getting a toothbrush with a travel container to protect the bristles.
• Feminine hygiene products: Sanitary napkins and pads are readily available in India, but tampons without applicators can be difficult to find outside major cities.
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent: The Indian sun can be intense, so be sure to pack sunscreen. Mosquitoes can also be a nuisance, so bring mosquito repellent, as Western brands tend to be stronger and more effective than local ones.
• First-aid kit: Include items such as diarrhoea medication ("Delhi Belly" is common in India), travel sickness tablets, scissors/nail clippers, and any other essentials.
• Toiletries bag: Choose a hanging toiletry bag to keep your products organised and mess-free. Look for one with multiple compartments and pockets.

Travel documents: passport, visas, travel insurance, etc

When travelling to India, it is important to prepare all the necessary documents in advance. Here is a list of documents you will need to carry with you:

• Passport: Your passport is the most important document you will need for your trip to India. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from India and that it has at least two blank pages for visa and immigration stamps.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit, you will need to apply for a specific type of visa. You can apply for a visa online or in person at an Indian embassy or consulate. The documents required for a visa application may include a completed application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of residence or nationality, proof of financial means, and proof of travel itinerary.
• Travel Insurance: It is recommended that you have travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies, delays, or lost luggage.
• Proof of Vaccinations: Depending on your country of origin, you may need to provide proof of certain vaccinations when entering India.
• Driving License and International Driving Permit: If you plan on driving or renting a vehicle in India, you will need to carry your driving license and an international driving permit.

Electronics: camera, phone, portable charger, etc

When travelling to India, it is important to be aware of the country's customs rules for electronic items. Here is some information on what you can and cannot bring with you when travelling to India, as well as some guidelines on usage and packing.

Mobile Phones

One mobile phone for personal use is generally allowed, and customs officials usually do not ask you to declare it if you have one phone in your pocket. However, carrying two or more phones may not always be a good option, even though this is often allowed. If you are carrying a new phone (in a sealed box) other than the one you are using, you may have to declare it, show the purchase receipt and state the purpose, such as gifting.

Laptops

According to Indian Customs Baggage Rules, any passenger over the age of 18 may import one laptop computer (notebook computer) in addition to the duty-free allowance. You cannot include more than one laptop for personal use under the duty-free allowance. If the second laptop is for personal use and the total value of your articles, including the second laptop, exceeds your duty-free allowance, you are liable to pay customs duty.

Tablets

There is no special allowance or duty for tablet computers. You can include these under your duty-free allowance.

Cameras

There is no specific information on the number of cameras one can carry to India. However, it is important to note that the duty-free allowance for personal electronic items depends on various factors, including your age and duration of stay abroad. If you are above 18 years of age and have stayed abroad for more than three days, you are eligible for a duty-free allowance on the value of your electronic items up to INR 50,000.

Portable Chargers

There is no specific information on portable chargers, but power banks can be included under the duty-free allowance.

Voltage and Plugs

India has a 220/240V 50Hz electrical supply, while the US delivers 110/120V 60Hz electricity. Most electronic devices like laptops and tablets have dual-voltage power supplies, which accept both. However, you will need adapters for the physical plugs so they fit in Indian sockets. Devices that charge via USB could also be charged with a USB charger purchased in India.

In-Flight Usage

During takeoff, all phones should be turned off, even in airplane mode. Other gadgets that use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or mobile networks are also supposed to be turned off to avoid interference with the airplane's signals. However, you can use your devices on airplane mode and connect them to the complimentary Wi-Fi network offered during the flight. Minutes before landing, you will be asked to switch off your gadgets again.

Customs Declarations and Documentation

All the items you are carrying need a declaration form, which will be provided to customs. You must mention all the required information, such as market price, features, description, and the reason for bringing the item. Providing false information can lead to the item being confiscated or penalties imposed. You may also need to support your declaration with various documents, such as invoices or payment proof.

Duty-Free Allowance

The duty-free allowance for India depends on the passenger's age and mode of travel. Usually, it can range from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000 for passengers arriving by air.

Prohibited Items

Some items that are prohibited from being taken into India include satellite phones, drones, and radio transmitters not approved for regular usage.

Other essentials: first aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, etc

When travelling to India, it is important to take a few key health and safety precautions. Here is a list of essential items to pack for your trip:

First Aid Kit:

• Diarrhoea kit: This is essential as many travellers to India suffer from "Delhi Belly".
• Band-Aids: For blisters and cuts.
• Cortisone cream: To relieve bug bites, rashes, and hives.
• Antiseptic cream: For cuts and other known abrasions.
• Any prescription medication: Ensure you have enough for your trip and keep it in its original packaging.
• Malaria pills: Malaria is present in different parts of India at different times of the year, so consult your doctor for advice.
• Insect bite relief cream: To relieve itching and swelling.
• Hand sanitiser: To clean your hands regularly and before eating.
• Any other over-the-counter medication you may need: Painkillers, antihistamines, sleep aids, etc.

Mosquito Repellent:

• Odomos: This is a popular and effective mosquito repellent cream available in India.
• Mosquito repellent spray: To keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay in the evenings.
• Plug-in mosquito deterrent: If you are concerned about mosquitoes while you sleep, a plug-in emits a high-pitched noise that humans can't hear but keeps the bugs away.

Sunscreen:

Sunscreen with a high SPF: Temperatures in India often exceed 30°C and sometimes reach 40°C, so it is important to protect your skin with a good quality sunscreen.

Other recommended items to protect yourself from the sun include:

• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Long, loose-fitting clothing
• Scarf

Frequently asked questions