Packing for Northern India as a solo female traveler can feel like a challenge, but trust us—it’s easier than you think! With its mix of buzzing cities, peaceful temples, and everything in between, India is a place where the right wardrobe and essentials make all the difference. Preparing for a trip to India means packing for a mix of climates, cultures, and experiences. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to bring, so you can stay comfortable and respectful while feeling confident.
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We’ve got you covered with a printable packing checklist, as well as guidelines for what to wear in India as a solo female traveler and a list of items you might not have considered for your packing list. Northern India is incredibly diverse, with cultural norms that vary between conservative rural areas, traditional religious sites, and more modern, bustling cities like Delhi and Jaipur. Dressing appropriately in India can feel a bit tricky at first, but once you understand the balance of modesty, comfort, and practicality, it becomes much easier. We’ll help you navigate exactly what to pack so you can feel both confident and respectful wherever your travels take you.
What bag to pack for india
To carry on or not to carry on? Duffel bag, backpack, or suitcase? We get asked this question a lot, but it’s really up to you and what kind of packer you are! There are two limitations to consider for most India trips, including our India Meetup Tour.
Domestic flights save valuable travel time and make for a much more pleasant trip in India, but like most flights they have some weight restrictions for baggage. A check-in luggage must weigh less than 33lbs/15kg and a carry on less than 15lbs/7kg or you may incur some extra charges at the airport. Also, there will be times when you will have to carry your luggage to your room or around the airport on your own. Be sure you can manage it! We ask that when you travel with us, you limit your baggage to a personal item like a purse, a daypack, and a suitcase.
Otherwise, it is a personal choice what kind of bag you pack for a trip to India. We always recommend not to overpack, so you can save space for souvenirs and not feel weighed down. To maximize space in your bags, use compression packing cubes. They save space and keep you organized; we never leave for a trip without them.Â
Weather considerations and how to pack for Northern INDIA
Daytime temperatures in Northern India can vary depending on the season, especially when comparing spring and autumn, which are popular times to visit.
Spring (March/April): Expect warm to hot temperatures during the day, especially in places like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, where it can range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). Mornings and evenings are cooler, especially in desert regions like Rajasthan. Light, breathable fabrics are essential, but bring a light jacket or shawl for cooler mornings.
Autumn (October/November): The weather is more temperate and pleasant after the monsoon season, with daytime temperatures around 20°C to 29°C (67°F – 84°F). Humidity drops, making it comfortable for sightseeing. You’ll still need light, airy clothes for daytime, and a cardigan or light sweater for the evenings.
Remember to check the weather before you leave! Temperatures can still vary from year to year so it’s important to pack accordingly. From the hot afternoons in Rajasthan to the cooler mornings in Varanasi, being prepared for varying conditions will ensure you stay comfortable throughout your trip.
How to dress as a solo female traveler in INDIA
When packing for India, it’s essential to balance comfort, cultural sensitivity, and practicality. While India is diverse in its fashion—from traditional attire in rural areas to modern styles in big cities—modest dressing is the safest choice everywhere.
While we believe women should be able to wear what they choose, dressing modestly in India helps minimize unwanted attention and shows respect for local customs. In most parts of Northern India, it’s best to keep your shoulders, chest, and knees covered. You should aim to be mostly covered up, not just out of respect for local customs but also for protection from the sun and to avoid unwanted attention. This doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort! Opt for:
- Loose, breathable clothing: Think cotton kurtas, flowy maxi dresses, palazzo pants, and linen shirts. Tight, body-hugging clothes are best avoided, especially in rural areas.
- Cover your shoulders and knees: This is especially important in temples and religious sites, but it’s also a good general rule.
- Layers: Lightweight scarves or dupattas are perfect for covering up when needed, and they’re handy for sun protection too.
- Colors and prints: Bright, vibrant colors are common in India, so don’t shy away from bold patterns. You’ll blend in more than you think!
In cities like Delhi and Jaipur, you’ll see women wearing everything from jeans to dresses and clothing that leans towards Western fashion, but even there, short shorts, tank tops, and revealing outfits may draw unwanted attention. Think of it as dressing both for respect and comfort.
ESSENTIAL ITEMS TO PACK FOR India
Aside from the basics (scroll down for a printable packing list that includes things like underwear and socks), there are some necessities that will make you a lot more comfortable in India. Here are some things you may not think of to pack but will improve your experience.
1. A scarf
A scarf (or lightweight shawl/dupatta) like this one is one of the most useful things you can pack for India! It serves many purposes. In more traditional areas, it’s helpful to have a scarf handy to cover your chest or shoulders when needed. Many religious sites require women to cover their heads or shoulders, and in busy cities like Delhi, you can use it as a face covering to avoid dust and pollution. It’s also great for sun protection when exploring outdoors. A light, breathable fabric like cotton or linen is best to keep you comfortable in warm weather.
2. Sun protection
The sun can be intense in India, so be prepared. A wide-brimmed hat is essential for shielding your face from strong sunlight. High-quality sunscreen with high SPF is a must to protect against sunburn. You can find sunscreen in India, but brands you trust might not always be available. And don’t forget your sunglasses!
3. A maxi dress or two
A loose, flowy maxi dress is perfect for Northern India. It keeps you cool, comfortable, and modest. Also consider bringing non-rolling bicycle shorts to wear underneath or an anti-chafing balm.
If dresses aren’t your thing, lightweight, wide-leg pants paired with tunic tops or blouses are just as great. Stick to breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and avoid tight or revealing clothing, as it may attract unwanted attention, especially in smaller towns and villages.
4. Sturdy walking shoes and flip flops
You need two essential pairs of shoes for India.
Your main pair should be comfortable walking shoes, like sturdy sneakers or walking/running shoes. We recommend Hokas  because they’re great for everyday walking. The streets can be uneven, dusty, and sometimes chaotic, so you’ll want something supportive.Â
The second pair should be flip-flops or sandals to walk around the hotel in. Plus, many temples, homes, and even some restaurants require you to remove your shoes before entering. We love tevas because they can be used as active-wear sandals or just for lounging around the hotel.Â
5. A lightweight jacket/cardigan or long sleeve button down
Even though India is mostly hot, early mornings and evenings—especially in places like Rajasthan’s deserts or the Himalayan foothills—can be chilly. A lightweight jacket, long cardigan, or oversized button-down is perfect for layering, covering up in conservative areas, and staying warm in air-conditioned spaces like hotels and restaurants.
Also consider a heavier jacket if you are coming to India in winter months. It can definitely get chilly in some regions, so be prepared and research the weather before you go!
6. Secure purse or locked daypack
An anti-theft, crossbody purse should be a travel staple almost everywhere in the world. Tourists are always a target to thieves, including in India. Some vendors may cover your purse with the goods they are selling, like scarves, to hide their hand going into your bag. A sturdy purse that zips up fully closed, crosses your body, and even better if it is slash proof is a travel must-have. If you  can get by on a day trip with even less, a money belt like this one holds the basics like money, your hotel room key, and your phone is even more secure.Â
If you want to carry a day pack so you can fit more things like a camera and water bottle, buy cheap locks so no one can grab stuff out of the pockets in crowded spaces.Â
7. A small first aid kit
Street food is one of the best parts of traveling in India, but it’s common for visitors to have minor stomach issues while adjusting to the cuisine. Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials like:
- Electrolyte packets for staying hydrated
- Activated charcoal or Pepto-Bismol for mild stomach discomfort
- Hand wipes to clean your hands before eating
- Band-aids and pain relievers for general use
9. A personal fan
If you are someone who is sensitive to the heat, one of these rechargeable personal fans may be a good idea. Some sites in India require a lot of walking with little shade. Wearing your hat, staying hydrated, and having this fan sit on your shoulders could help you focus on the sites instead of the heat.Â
Full India Packing List for Women
Our goal with this packing guide is to give you the information you need to travel with confidence to India. Pack carefully, but also don’t stress too much. Many things are available in India for purchase if you find you need something you didn’t pack, and you will have a group of amazing, supported women with you to lend you a hand as they are able. As always, when you travel with us on our India Meetup Tour, you have access to our Facebook group where you can ask questions or get advice from our community of solo female travelers from around the world. You are also welcome to email us if you get stuck and need some advice!Â
Use this India packing checklist for all the necessities including the basics. Of course, everyone’s needs and personal preferences are different, so don’t look at this as an exhaustive list.Â
All links in this article encourage purchases from small businesses, locally owned stores, or women owned companies wherever possible while prioritizing reliable recommendations for our travelers.
