MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Kerala, India

Warm Weather Attire

Pack lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or quick-drying synthetics. Days are warm, and evenings comfortable, so extensive layering is not needed.

Dry Season Comfort

  • Light, loose-fitting clothing to combat intense heat.
  • A light shawl or long-sleeved shirt for cooler evenings or mosquito protection.
  • Choose light colors that reflect the sun.

Monsoon Preparedness

Expect heavy rainfall. Pack quick-drying clothes.

Monsoon Essentials

Footwear Recommendations

Flip-flops/Sandals

These are a must-have for Varkala. Practical for the beach, walking around the Cliff, and easy removal when entering temples or guesthouses.

Essential for daily wear

Walking Shoes

Bring comfortable, breathable shoes for exploring Varkala Town, longer walks, or day trips. Trainers or sturdy sandals are suitable. Avoid heavy boots.

Ideal for exploration

Waterproof Footwear

During monsoon, water-resistant sandals or Crocs can be useful.

Monsoon utility

Essential Documents

Passport & Visa Documentation

Carry both original and copies of your documents. Your passport is your main identification.

  • Original Passport: Main identification and proof of nationality.
  • Visa: Printout of e-Visa approval or stamped visa in passport.
  • Copies: Multiple photocopies of passport/visa, stored separately.
  • Digital Copies: Save on phone and in cloud storage.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy copy with emergency contact details.
  • International Driving Permit: Legally needed for scooter/motorcycle rental.
  • Vaccination Records: Yellow Fever certificate (if applicable) and general records.
  • Doctor's Note for Medications: For prescription medications, especially controlled substances.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Plan your electronics to stay connected and capture memories while ensuring compatibility with India's power system.

Essentials

Charging & Backup

Keep your devices powered and your data safe.

Device Management

Recommended Apps

Navigation

Google Maps invaluable for directions. Download offline maps for Varkala.

Ride-sharing

Ola Cabs common in Kerala for inter-city travel. Uber is less active in Varkala itself. Download before arrival.

Communication

WhatsApp is ubiquitous in India for messaging and calls. Google Translate (offline Malayalam pack) aids with language barriers.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit for common travel ailments.

Essential Contents

Prevention & Protection

Safeguard against climate-specific risks.

Climate-Specific

Personal Hygiene & Motion Sickness

Hygiene Essentials

  • Bring small supply of preferred toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant.
  • Hand sanitizer is a good practice.
  • A Quick-drying travel towel is practical.

Motion Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern in Varkala.
  • Motion sickness remedies may be useful for bus or train travel.
  • Over-the-counter tablets for nausea.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Yoga & Wellness

Many yoga studios provide mats, but you might prefer your own.

  • Lightweight Travel yoga mat for personal hygiene.
  • Comfortable, flexible attire for classes.
  • Small towel for practice.
  • Reusable water bottle.

Surfing & Water Sports

Surfboards are available for rent from surf schools on Varkala Beach.

General Exploration

No highly specialized gear beyond general travel items.

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Daypack for excursions.
  • Camera (smartphone or DSLR).
  • Portable charger for devices.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Good to Rent

  • Surfboards and boogie boards.
  • Basic Snorkeling gear.
  • Bicycles and scooters.
  • Diving equipment (from certified centers).

Better to Bring

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Items to improve comfort, security, and convenience during your travels.

Travel Aids

Eco-Friendly & Local

Sustainable choices and region-specific items.

Sustainable Travel

  • Reusable Water Bottle: To minimize plastic waste; many cafes offer refills.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Handy for market purchases and souvenirs.
  • Utensils (Spork): For street food or snacks if you prefer.
  • Sarong/Shawl: Versatile for beach cover-up, modesty at temples, or light blanket on buses.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Reusable Coffee Cup

For local tea/coffee on the go.

Reusable Straw

To reduce plastic waste from drinks.

Travel Cutlery Set

Avoid single-use plastic cutlery.

Quick-Dry Towel

Lightweight and dries quickly.

Destination-Specific

Region-Specific Essentials

  • Portable Power Bank: For potential power outages.
  • High-Quality Insect Repellent: Local options may be less effective.
  • High-Quality Sunscreen: Bring preferred brands as local selection varies.

Items Difficult to Find Locally

  • Specific Prescription Medications: Bring a sufficient supply of unique medications.
  • Preferred Toiletries: Specific brands of toothpaste, shampoo, etc.
  • Books/Entertainment: Limited selection in local shops.

Packing Wisdom

Prioritize versatility and modesty in your packing choices.

Pack light to facilitate movement, especially if you plan to use local transport frequently.