What to Pack for a Trip to India + Outfit Inspiration
/YOU’RE GOING TO india - YAY!
I’m going to go out on a limb here and assume that if you’ve found your way to this post its because you’re either planning a trip to India or have already booked your trip - either way YAY! Now, comes the fun/stressful part (depending on the type of packer that you are haha).
Depending on the month you’re visiting will slightly alter your packing list but I will mostly be creating this post for anyone visiting the spring and fall months, when the weather is hot, but not unbearable.
I am a FIRM believer that we all should wear whatever makes us feel most comfortable & confident while traveling. That said, we are guests in a country that is more traditional so it's best to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively to avoid any unwanted attention or cause offense.
Anything long, loose, and flowing is key for dressing for the climate and the culture.
In Delhi, you’ll see women in Western dress, but in the rest of the country, it is considered a sign of respect to keep your knees and shoulders covered. That said, I’ve broken the shoulders-covered rule on previous trips when it’s hot.
The ONLY golden rule I would suggest is to make sure you're packing layers, breathable fabrics and maybe a wrap or light jacket if you get chilly at night or on the plane.
PRO TIP #1: Copy and paste that list into the notes section of your phone so that you can reference it when you’re packing.
PRO TIP #2: if you're looking to Jazz up your looks for this trip without breaking the bank you should absolutely look into Rent the Runway. This is my GO-TO when traveling. You can use my code: RTRALLEP for 40% off two months.
Another fantastic option that is also much more size-inclusive than Rent the Runway is Nuuly (owned by Anthropologie and Free People) I also rent from them and LOVE their selection. While my discount code isn't as good as RTR if you click this link you'll get $20 off your first month!
india MVPS
There are a few things I NEVER travel to India without. To help you in your packing process, I'm sharing some of my staples. Each of these items is linked just in case you see something you love and want to shop.
What to wear during the day in India
What to wear in the evenings in India
What to wear to the pool in India
MOST IMPORTANTLY: if you're looking to Jazz up your looks for this trip without breaking the bank you should absolutely look into Rent the Runway. This is my GO-TO when traveling. You can use my code: RTRALLEP for 40% off two months.
Another fantastic option that is also much more size-inclusive than Rent the Runway is Nuuly (owned by Anthropologie and Free People) I also rent from them and LOVE their selection. While my discount code isn't as good as RTR if you click this link you'll get $20 off your first month!
ACCESSORIES
SHOES
TOILETRIES
Some of my travel staples for India trips
MORE OPTIONS LINKED BELOW:
MY India PACKING LIST
Day dresses / jumpsuits
Night dresses / matching sets
Outfits for the evening
Swimsuits
Cover-ups / sarong
Layering tops
Flowy pants
Blouses/linen tops
Maxi skirts
Tank tops / t-shirts
Sweater or cardigan (for the plane)
Activewear
Comfortable airplane outfit
PJs
Socks and compression socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Sneakers
Flats
Sandals
Scarf
Carry-all bag
Hat
Jewelry & Sunglasses
Toiletry bag (makeup, hair & skincare)
First aid kid (pain meds, bandaids, etc.) Click here for a full post on how to stay healthy while traveling
Device chargers
External battery
Carry on
Away luggage (click here for $20 off)
Dirty laundry bag
Chapstick
Power converter and adapter
Personal fan
Coin purse or small wallet
India OUTFIT INSPIRATION
Do you have any packing suggestions on what to bring for a trip to India? If you do, please share them in the comments!
If you are looking for more India travel tips, make sure to check out my Delhi Guide and Where to Stay in Jaipur.