Packing for India depends on your destinations, season, and travel style. Here's a checklist that covers all the essentials without overpacking.

Clothing

Warm Season (October–March, Plains)

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen)
• Long pants/trousers and modest tops (especially for temple visits)
• A light jacket or shawl for air-conditioned cars and restaurants
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunhat and sunglasses

Summer (April–June)

• Lightest possible clothing
• Sun protection is critical
• Quick-dry fabrics

Hill Stations / Mountains

• Warm layers (fleece, down jacket for high altitude)
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm socks and sturdy shoes

Monsoon (July–September)

• Quick-dry clothing
• Waterproof bag for electronics
• Umbrella or rain jacket
• Sandals that handle wet conditions

Medication & Health

• Prescription medication with copies of prescriptions
• Stomach medicine — antacids, anti-diarrheal (Imodium), oral rehydration salts
• Pain relievers — paracetamol, ibuprofen
• Antihistamines — for allergies and insect bites
• Sunscreen — SPF 50+ (expensive in India)
• Insect repellent — DEET-based
• Hand sanitizer — essential
• First aid basics — band-aids, antiseptic cream

Electronics

• Universal power adapter — India uses Type C, D, and M plugs (220V)
• Power bank — essential for long road trips
• Phone with offline Google Maps downloaded
• Camera — India is incredibly photogenic

Documents

• Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• Visa (e-visa printout)
• Travel insurance documents
• Copies of all documents (digital and physical)
• Passport-size photos (2-3, for SIM cards and permits)
• Hotel booking confirmations

What NOT to Bring

• Too many clothes — India is great for shopping. You'll buy things.
• Expensive jewellery — keep it simple for safety
• Drones — strict regulations in India, many places ban them outright
• Too much cash — ATMs are everywhere

Packing for Road Trips

When traveling by private car, you have boot space — use it. But pack a day bag with:

• Water bottle
• Snacks
• Medication
• Phone charger / power bank
• Light jacket for AC

Travel Light, Travel Right

With Royal Fleet, your luggage stays safely in the car boot while you explore. Innova and Hycross models have the most luggage space for long trips.