MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Rajasthan, India

Winter Clothing October-March

Early morning safaris are chilly. Pack layers to stay warm. Daytime warms up, allowing shedding of layers.

Winter Essentials

Summer/Monsoon Clothing

Summers are hot, monsoons are wet. Lightweight, breathable clothing protects from sun and humidity.

Summer/Monsoon Essentials

Footwear Recommendations

Safari Footwear

Closed-toe shoes or comfortable Sneakers are best. They protect feet from dust and minor scrapes.

Protection

General Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy Sandals are suitable for Sawai Madhopur town or hotel grounds.

Comfort

Cultural Dress Code

When visiting local villages or temples, modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is advised. Remove shoes before entering religious sites.

Respect

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your trip. Have copies both physically and digitally.

  • Passport and Visa: Original passport, printout of e-Visa ETA, or physical visa. Digital and paper copies.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy number, emergency contacts, coverage summary. Both digital and physical printouts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Only if self-driving (generally not recommended).
  • Vaccination Records: Required certificates (e.g., Yellow Fever). Documentation for prescription medications.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flight tickets, hotel bookings, and Ranthambore safari permits.
  • Emergency Contacts: Family, local embassy/consulate in India, travel insurance emergency line.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts at other attractions.
  • Keep digital and physical copies of all important documents separate from originals.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

India uses Type C, D, and M electrical outlets with a standard voltage of 230V at 50Hz. Most GSM phones are compatible with Indian networks.

Tech Essentials

Camera & Apps

Capture your wildlife experiences. Plan for ample storage and backup.

Photography & Software

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud services for backing up safari photos and videos.

External Hard Drive

A Small external hard drive for a physical backup of important data.

Device Security

Secure your devices with passwords and encryption. Consider VPN for public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit

A prepared health kit gives you peace of mind and handles minor ailments.

Kit Contents

Medications & Protection

Ensure you have sufficient prescribed medications and defense against common environmental elements.

Medication & Environment

  • Prescription Medications: Enough for your entire trip, plus extras. Keep in original containers with pharmacy labels and a doctor's letter.
  • Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen and broad-spectrum lip balm.
  • Water Purification: LifeStraw or Water purification tablets as a backup.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Safari rides can be bumpy. Bring appropriate medication if you are sensitive to motion.
  • Ensure you have any specific remedies you prefer for motion sickness prevention.
  • Check medication labels for drowsiness side effects before safari.

Personal Hygiene

  • Pack specific brands of toiletries, feminine hygiene products, or contact lens solution if you have preferences.
  • Local alternatives may not meet your needs for sensitive products.
  • Hand sanitizer is always useful.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Safari Optics

Binoculars are important for spotting distant wildlife and birds. A magnification of 8x or 10x is ideal.

  • Enhance your viewing experience.
  • Some hotels may offer rentals, but quality varies.
  • Bring your own for optimal use.

Photography Gear

Bring your own camera equipment for optimal quality and familiarity. Rental options for specialized camera lenses are rare.

  • Telephoto lens for wildlife.
  • Monopod or beanbag for stability.
  • Extra batteries and memory cards.

Safari Daypack

A Compact backpack for carrying water, snacks, extra camera batteries, and small items during your safari.

  • Keep essentials handy.
  • Lightweight for comfort.
  • Ensures easy access to items.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Items to Bring

  • Specialized camera lenses.
  • Any personal medical equipment.
  • Preferred outdoor technical clothing (Amazon).
  • High-quality binoculars.

Items to Consider Renting/Buying Locally

  • Basic binoculars (if not bringing your own).
  • Generic toiletries if you don't have specific preferences.
  • Casual wear that can be purchased in local markets.
  • Basic first aid kit items if you run out.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security Items

These additional items enhance comfort, security, and convenience during your travels.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Reusable & Specialized Items

Help reduce waste and accommodate specific needs.

Sustainable & Unique

Sustainable Travel Items

Filtered Bottle

Reduces plastic waste from bottled water.

Reusable Bag

For shopping, minimizes single-use plastic bags.

Solar Charger

Eco-friendly charging for small devices.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Biodegradable or solid toiletries to lessen environmental impact.

Destination-Specific Items

Safari-Specific

  • No items are specifically unique to Ranthambore beyond general safari gear.
  • Focus is purely on wildlife observation.
  • Neutral colors for clothing.

Local Purchase Considerations

  • High-quality outdoor gear or specific camera accessories are hard to find in Sawai Madhopur.
  • Purchase these before your trip.
  • Local markets offer basic necessities.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack a small, lightweight Headlamp or flashlight. This is useful for early morning safari departures or navigating hotel grounds at night, especially in areas with limited lighting.

Opt for clothing that can be layered to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.