Packing List for India
Have you decided to join the Tibetan Studies Program or just travel around India? You are probably debating what to bring half a world away. If you have never been to India, this list is for you. Packing for a semester abroad seems so daunting at times. “Will they have what I need?” “What if I forget something?” “What if I am craving something from home and I cannot find it here?” These are all questions that were racing through my head when I started packing for my study abroad program in India. I became like a hibernating bear getting ready for the winter when I came here. This resulted in bringing two huge suitcases and a backpack the size of a small suitcase (which I love and you can get here: TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible). The other students had large traveler’s backpacks which have worked just fine. Given that the Tibetan Studies Program takes place in many locations, you will be thankful if you have fewer things to lug around. It turns out about half the things I purchased for the trip could have waited until I made it to India and would have been so much more affordable.
Looking back I wish I hadn’t purchased a sleeping bag. You can get a nicer, cheaper one here. And if you decide to go trekking you can rent all of your gear. I also wish I had not purchased new clothing for the trip. It is easy to find a pair of pants for as little as $3 here. In addition, I did not need to bring my rain boots. While the Tibetan Studies Program began in the monsoon season, I never found that I needed them. Basically, do not buy any new apparel as this can be purchased fairly inexpensive while you are here. I would also avoid bringing too much school work associated with your major. This program is fast paced and you will want to focus most of your energy on the school work here. So what should you actually bring?
An Outlet Converter:
Although you can purchase them in India I strongly suggest you
purchase this one: BESTEK converter as it has been a lifesaver
when I only had one outlet and several things to plug in. It also
converts the voltage and protects your devices if the power goes
out (which happens often). Outlets differ around the world and
India is no exception. The voltage of the outlet can change as well.
You will not be able to plug the electronics you purchased in the US
into wall outlets here, so make sure you remember your outlet converter.
Medical:
Make sure to bring any prescription medications in their original bottles as to make it through customs. Do not forget your malaria pills! You should also bring any non-prescription medications that your body is used to as it can take some time to find an equivalent in India. Also be sure to bring any medical equipment and accessories for said equipment. A first aid kit can come in handy as well. Not everything that is available in your home country will be available here.
Pictures of Your Loved Ones:
While you can use your phone, it is nice to have physical copies to share with the people you meet. It is a great way to tell those you stay with about where you come from. They also make great decorations for your room to remind you of home.
Things That Remind You of Home:
Bring the pillowcase you love or a stuffed animal. Bring something to comfort you when you are feeling homesick. This helps ease the pain of being in a new culture and away from those you love. When you come to a new culture, it is exciting and different but as time goes on you might start missing home. This is natural and normal although it may be difficult. Bringing something from home allows you to ease this pain a bit.
A Food You Know You Will Miss:
I brought my favorite salt and vinegar chips from home and they were a major hit as you cannot find that flavor here. While the food in a new culture is delicious and can be a culinary adventure, eventually you may start missing food from home. By bringing some food you can satisfy this craving and better appreciate the local cuisine.
Campers Toilet Paper:
I found Coleman Campers Toilet Paper incredibly useful as it is in a reusable plastic container so it does not get destroyed when traveling. Typically public bathrooms here will not have toilet paper. You can also purchase toilet paper here but it is nice to have a reusable container to keep it intact as you travel.
A Water Bottle That Can Hold Hot Water:
Water here needs to be boiled on occasion and many people drink hot water. This is because the tap water here is not filtered like it is in the United States. By boiling the water you reduce the risk of getting sick from drinking it. Therefore, a metal vacuum-walled bottle can be better than a plastic one.
Gifts For Your Host Family and Roommate:
They will really appreciate if you bring something with a logo of Earlham or your city/state/country. Stickers and glasses work well. Avoid anything made in China. There is a thriving gift giving culture in India. As a part of the Tibetan Studies Program, you will be expected to give to those who you have stayed with. Not only is it a wonderful way to show appreciation, it also allows you to take part in the culture more fully.
Unlocked Cell Phone:
Some cell phone carriers only allow you to use their sim card unless you have asked them to unlock it. This is not a physical change to your phone but rather something done on the carriers end. You might have to purchase your phone in order to do so. If you are unable to afford this option, there are also program phones which are available.
Sunglasses:
Often the sunglasses sold on the side of the road in India do more harm than good as they are painted on to make them cheaper to produce. This paint can affect your eyes negatively. By bringing your own glasses, you ensure that you are keeping your eyes safe. Dharamshala, where most of the Tibetan Studies Program takes place, is high in elevation so the sun is more damaging than when you are at sea level.
As Little as Possible:
You really will not need 10 changes of clothing and all the toiletries you are used to. Bring your favorite things and leave the rest at home. If you find you would feel better with another pair of pants or something once you arrive, it is inexpensive to purchase a new one once you are here.