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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Andaman And Nicobar Islands, India

Dry Season Apparel

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal for the dry season (October-May). Pack shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimwear.

Clothing Essentials

  • Cotton and linen clothing for comfort and quick drying.
  • A Light jacket or Shawl for cooler evenings or air-conditioned ferries.
  • Swimwear and a rash guard for sun protection during water activities.

Wet Season Apparel

Quick-drying clothing is a must during the monsoon (June-September). Pack a Light rain jacket or a Poncho for unexpected downpours.

Rainy Weather Gear

  • Synthetics like nylon or polyester blends are excellent for quick drying.
  • Waterproof or quick-drying footwear.
  • Lightweight fabrics continue to be useful as temperatures stay warm.

Footwear Recommendations

Beach Footwear

Flip-flops or Comfortable sandals are perfect for walking on the soft sand.

Sandy Shores

Walking & Exploring

Comfortable walking sandals or light Sneakers are a good choice for general exploration and walking around villages.

Island Roads

Water Activities

Water shoes or sturdy sandals prove useful for rocky areas near the shore, navigating boat decks, or participating in water sports.

Coastal Protection

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your trip. Have both physical and digital copies of everything important.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Original passport and either your physical visa or a printed copy of your e-Visa approval letter.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Printout of your policy number and the emergency contact details for your insurer.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home country's driving license if you plan to rent and drive a scooter.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Your Yellow Fever certificate if needed, and records of any personal vaccinations.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flight tickets, ferry bookings, hotel confirmations, and any pre-booked tours.
  • Emergency contact information: A list of important phone numbers for family/friends at home, your local embassy or consulate in India, and your travel insurance emergency line.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any service interruptions.
  • Prescription Medications: Carry all medications in their original packaging with a doctor's note.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

India operates on 230V, 50 Hz, mainly using Type C, D, and M plugs (Type D is most common). A Universal travel adapter is highly recommended.

Mobile & Charging

Photography & Apps

Capture Havelock's stunning beauty and navigate with useful applications.

Digital Tools

  • Bring a Waterproof camera (like a GoPro or Waterproof phone case) for underwater photos.
  • Google Maps is invaluable; download offline maps of Havelock Island as internet connectivity can be unreliable.
  • Google Translate allows you to download the Hindi language pack for offline use. WhatsApp is widely used for local communication.

Data & Gadget Security

Secure Power

A power strip with a surge protector permits charging multiple devices from a single outlet.

Data Backup

Use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up your photos and important documents.

Gadget Protection

A Dry bag for protecting camera gear, phones, and other electronics from water and sand.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid

A well-stocked personal health kit prepares you for common travel ailments and helps you maintain your well-being in a tropical environment.

Essential Kit Items

Prescription & OTC Medications

Carry all prescription medications in their original packaging. Bring a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining your medical condition.

Medical Preparedness

  • Doctor's prescription or letter for all personal medications.
  • Over-the-counter remedies for colds, flu symptoms, and throat lozenges.
  • Motion sickness medication is highly relevant for ferry rides between islands.

Tropical Health & Protection

Insect Protection

  • Bring high-DEET insect repellent (or local Odomos) to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Consider sleeping under mosquito nets if your accommodation presents them.

Sun & Water Safety

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling & Diving

While dive centers rent gear, bringing your own Snorkeling mask and snorkel set ensures a comfortable and hygienic fit.

  • A rash guard offers excellent sun protection, especially during prolonged water activities.
  • Many prefer their own mouthpiece for hygiene.
  • Full-face masks are also popular options for snorkeling.
  • Consider bringing a Quick-dry towel for convenience.

Kayaking & Boating

A dry bag is invaluable for protecting your electronics, wallet, and other valuables from splashes or unexpected submersions.

  • A Dry bag for protecting camera gear, phones, and other electronics.
  • A Waterproof phone pouch makes possible using your phone for photos or navigation safely near water.
  • Sturdy water shoes or sandals are useful for navigating boat decks.
  • A good quality wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap.

General Day Gear

These items add to comfort and visibility in Havelock's bright, tropical environment.

  • A good quality pair of polarized sunglasses significantly lessens glare from the intense sun.
  • A lightweight DSLR or Mirrorless camera for landscapes.
  • A comfortable daypack for daily excursions.
  • A compact, lightweight tripod for long exposure photography.

Rent vs. Bring Gear

Items to Rent

  • Most scuba diving gear (BCD, regulators, fins, wetsuits) from certified dive centers on the island.
  • Scooters and bicycles are easily rented locally for island exploration.
  • Bulkier water sports equipment like kayaks.
  • Snorkeling gear if you don't mind shared equipment.

Items to Bring

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security Items

Beyond clothing and electronics, a few miscellaneous items greatly add to your travel experience on Havelock Island.

Travel Smarter

Sustainable Travel & Practicalities

These small additions add comfort, security, and practicality to your journey.

Eco-Conscious Packing

  • A Reusable water bottle is a must for lessening plastic waste.
  • A Reusable shopping bag is useful for market purchases.
  • Consider Reusable utensils if you plan to eat street food frequently.
  • High-quality reef-safe sunscreen or specific Western brand toiletries might be difficult or expensive to find locally.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Lessen plastic waste on the island.

Eco-Friendly Bag

For market trips and souvenirs.

Solid Toiletries

Reduce liquid waste and spills.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Shields both skin and marine life.

Destination-Specific Items

Marine Exploration

  • Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel) for comfort and hygiene.
  • Waterproof camera or phone case to capture underwater beauty.
  • Rash guard for sun and minor sting protection.

Island Mobility

  • Water shoes for rocky shores or slippery boat decks.
  • International Driving Permit if renting a scooter.
  • Small flashlight for poorly lit paths at night.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light. You can easily get laundry done in Havelock. Rolling your clothes saves space and minimizes wrinkles.

Bring a foldable duffel bag for souvenirs or extra purchases on your way back.