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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Punjab And Haryana, India

Seasonal Clothing

Winter (Oct-Mar): Pack warm layers, sweaters, jackets, and shawls. Thermal wear for Dec-Jan. A Warm hat and Gloves for early mornings/evenings. Summer (Apr-Jun): Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Light colors are preferable. Avoid synthetics.

Monsoon & Cultural Attire

  • Monsoon (Jul-Sep): Opt for quick-drying clothes. A Lightweight rain jacket or sturdy umbrella.
  • Modest clothing is respectful: cover shoulders and knees for women. Long trousers for men.
  • Golden Temple: Head covering mandatory. Bring a Modest travel scarf.

Footwear Recommendations

You will do a lot of walking. Comfortable walking shoes or Sandals are required for exploring city streets and attractions.

Footwear Tips

  • Flip-flops are useful for casual wear and easy removal at religious sites.
  • Avoid high heels due to uneven pavements and crowded areas.
  • Golden Temple: Remove shoes before entry. Socks optional but recommended.

Activity-Specific Attire

Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest clothing ensures suitability in various settings.

Wear comfortable shoes

Wagah Border Ceremony

Wear light and comfortable clothing during summer due to the afternoon heat. The outdoor setting provides little shade.

Stay cool and hydrated

Religious Sites

Always remember to cover your head (for Golden Temple) and remove shoes before entering the temple complex.

Observe modesty

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and safe is a top priority. Make sure you have all required papers readily accessible.

  • Original passport and e-Visa printout (or physical visa sticker).
  • Travel insurance policy information (policy number, emergency contacts).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if planning to drive.
  • Yellow Fever certificate (if required) and medication documentation.
  • Printed and digital copies of flight, hotel, and tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact information (embassy, family, trusted contacts).
  • Student/senior/press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Take photos of all important documents and store them securely.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

India uses 230V at 50Hz, with Type C, D, and M plugs (Type D is most common). Bring a Universal travel adapter. Your mobile phone needs to be GSM network compatible and unlocked to use a local SIM card.

SIM Card Options

  • Local SIM cards from Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea offer affordable plans.
  • Purchase at airport or authorized stores. Passport photos and visa copy for activation.
  • Consider Airalo for eSIMs to get connected quicker.

Device Essentials

A good Travel camera (e.g., Mirrorless Camera Kit) is great for many photo opportunities. Bring extra batteries and memory cards. B&H Photo for gear. Portable chargers like a 20000mAh power bank for long days.

Recommended Apps & Backup

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and documents.

Physical Backups

Consider an external hard drive for additional photo backups.

Security Accessories

Bring TSA-approved luggage locks, a Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

A small, well-stocked First aid kit helps you address minor issues. Include Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze, and medical tape for cuts and scrapes.

Medications & Rehydration

Sun & Insect Protection

Bring Insect repellent and Sun protection appropriate to the climate.

Water & Hygiene

Other Health Considerations

Prescription Medications

  • Carry all prescription medications in original packaging.
  • Bring a doctor's note or prescription, especially for controlled substances.
  • This helps avoid issues at customs.

Over-the-Counter & Personal Items

  • Cold and flu remedies, antacids, and general pain reliever.
  • Carry some tissues or toilet paper rolls, as public restrooms often do not supply them.
  • Bring specific brands of toiletries or feminine hygiene products if you rely on them.

Activity-Specific Equipment

General Tourism Gear

For general tourism in Amritsar, highly specialized gear is typically not needed. Most basic items like umbrellas or raincoats can be purchased locally if needed.

  • A Small backpack for day trips (water, snacks, personal items).
  • A Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
  • Consider if renting locally outweighs bringing specialized items.

Photography Gear

While not activity-specific, a good travel camera with extra batteries and memory cards is beneficial for capturing Amritsar's scenes.

  • Mirrorless camera kit for versatility.
  • Plenty of memory cards to avoid running out of space.
  • Power banks for on-the-go charging.
  • B&H Photo for camera and electronics.

Comfort for Exploration

Much of Amritsar's charm is best explored on foot, especially around the Golden Temple and local markets.

Items to Consider Locally

Easily Found Locally

  • Umbrellas and basic raincoats.
  • Bottled water (ensure seal is intact).
  • Local snacks and basic toiletries.
  • Local SIM cards.

Potentially Difficult/Expensive Locally

  • High-quality Sunscreen.
  • Specific over-the-counter medications.
  • Specialized camera gear.
  • Comfortable walking shoes in specific sizes.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These additional items help improve comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Must-Pack Items

Hygiene & General Readiness

Beyond general India travel advice, no unique items are specific to Amritsar. However, some items are universally helpful.

Essential Convenience Items

  • Hand sanitizer, especially before meals and after touching public surfaces.
  • Tissues or toilet paper rolls, as public restrooms often do not supply them.
  • High-quality Sunscreen or specific over-the-counter medications that might be hard to find locally.
  • Specialized camera gear if you rely on particular items.

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Bottle

Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Shopping Bag

Reusable shopping bag for market visits.

Bamboo Toothbrush

Eco-friendly alternatives for personal hygiene.

Solid Toiletries

Shampoo bars to minimize liquid waste.

Region-Specific Essentials

General India Travel

  • General face masks (optional, but good for pollution/dust).
  • Small cash denominations for local vendors.
  • Small padlock for hostel lockers (if applicable).

Amritsar Specific

  • Head covering (scarf) for Golden Temple (provided, but own is good).
  • Easy-to-remove shoes for temple visits.
  • Camera for the scenes and Golden Temple.

Packing Pro Tip

Carry some tissues or toilet paper rolls. Public restrooms in India often do not supply them.

Hand sanitizer is also a requirement, especially before meals and after touching public surfaces.