How to dress – How to Pack for India?
How to Pack for India? We are often asked for a list on what people should take whilst travelling to India. Like most things in life when deciding what to take to India, less is most defiantly more. Don’t forget that 90% of things you need can be bought there.
How to Pack for India? :
1. Climate
The clothes you will need will depend upon the time of year that you visit. India is a big place meaning that climates and environments change dramatically from place to place.
For example in Northern India, from November until March you will need a warm jacket, sweater and warm socks especially after the sun has gone down. Whereas in the South over this period the weather is balmy. From March and again in October bring lighter weight clothing.
During the Indian summer and Monsoon period (April to September) only loose fitting cotton clothing is comfortable.
2. Mosquitos
In India mosquitos are hard to avoid wherever you’re going. So you need to be prepared for this, not only with a suitable repellent but also with regard to long trousers and long sleeved shirt. It’s best to follow the old adage and start covering up at dusk.
3. The sun
The sun can be too much at times so you need to think about which clothes can protect you from its relentless rays. Again some long trousers, shirts etc. A sun hat is a must – if you’ve ever had heatstroke you know not to go anywhere sunny without a suitable sun hat which covers your neck and not only your head.
4. Leisure activities
Another point to consider when thinking about what clothes to take to India is of course what your actually going to be doing. Swimming is an easy one to forget especially if you’re destined for hostels and not the 5 stars. But nevertheless, bikinis and trunks are a must as no trip to India would be complete without a dip in that famous Indian ocean. Ladies should consider which outfit to wear. Most places you’ll be fine but it is all too easy to be a little too revealing in many parts of India. Most of the touristy beaches in Goa you’ll have no problems but some states have strict rules on how much flesh to show. So make sure you find out before you strip off.
Packing list – How to Pack for India?
These are only you may have your own and of course depending on where you’re going etc. you need to think carefully about what to take.
- 2 x T shirts, approximately.
- 1 x Nice shirt (for those special occasions)
- 1 Long sleeve shirt (maybe a special water proof one with special ‘sweat technology’ – you know the ones)
- 1 x Lightweight pair of trousers (good for cool evenings and mosquito protection)
- 2 x Pair of shorts
- Underwear/socks – up to you but it’s pretty easy to get it washed on a regular basis so you don’t need to take a huge amount.
- Pullover/jumper/sweater – whatever you call it. One should be enough, medium thickness. Of you’re going to North India like Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra it can get quite chilly in the evenings so dress appropriately. Of course even further North of Delhi, into the Himalayan foot hills it gets really rather cold so thermals could be useful.
- Pyjamas – up to you
- Sunhat
- Swimming costume/trunks – a must!
- Shoes – strong, quality lightweight training shoes are perfect for most scenarios you may find yourself in India
- Flip-flops – important not only for the beach but also for showers, toilets etc in hostels.
Specialist kit list for treks and Himalaya excursions
In addition to the above a trip into the high mountains requires additional clothing. A full specialist trek kit list will be sent to all guests.
