That's great because you went to somewhere warm and you don't always need to wear a lot of clothes. But what about travelling to northern Europe where long sleeves and pants are needed constantly?

Not bad at all. I'd add pajamas and everyday medicines. And I'd wish I could pack such a compact toiletry kit.

Great Post! What brand of suitcasse do you use? I have found it hard to find one that is light and still fits everything.

To ebarrett3 - I've used compression sacks in the past - they were fantastic.

with this many clothes, how often are you having to do laundry? i'm planning a 10 day trip to South America and will probably not have access to anything more than a sink. any suggestions to help me pack lighter are appreciated!

I just brought one bag on the last international trips I made. One was a week in Tokyo, and the other one was three months in India and Thailand. I brought a week's worth of clothes, and as little of everything else as possible. In both cases I bought souvenirs. I either mailed these home or I bought a small bag to check on the way back home.

I need to work on my toiletry packing skills. Shoes are hard for me because I have big feet and always need a couple or a few pairs they need their own luggage.

In trying to pair it down I like these two bags and I always carry on a nylon tote and back my cross shoulder bag.

I am lusting over these two piece of luggage, I like the duffle on wheels because when you need to be a bit inconspicuous you can go to duffle and nothing more awkward than rolling wheels of luggage down cobble stone streets but having wheels to save your shoulders in and out of airports, etc.
http://shop.canvashomestore.com/collections/accessories/products/foldable-wheeled-duffle

This one is larger probably and more practical converts to a backpack-
http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/mlc-bag-maximum-legal-carry-on-bag?p=48107-0-902

I'm going to Northern India in the two weeks, any advice on what NOT to forget when going to this part of the country?

I would suggest packing things like camisoles and leggings that you can wear under your other clothes. The camisoles, leggings (undershirts/longjohns for men) are easier to wash in a sink, and won't take as long to dry than a pair of jeans or thicker sweater.

Would change the e-reader, computer, tablet/stylus and backup for an iPad and Dropbox, unless you won't have access to internet cafes. Resize your maps so you can fold them into your notebooks. Need a laminated copy of your passport (keep a scan of it on your digital device as well), a compact & super-absorbant towel, some string (wrap things together, impromptu drying line, etc.), rubber bands, emergency whistle.

Looks like most of your clothing would work well together and layer well, but maybe a solid-color scarf would be more versatile?

I love seeing what other people pack, almost to the point of obsession! I love that you brought 6 dresses. Dresses are my western hemisphere travel uniform too (not so good traveling in the East though). I never have to think about whether the top matches the bottom. Like HSOJ, I just travel with an iPad now. I also bring a chamois towel, and a miniature first aid kit that fits in an Altoid tin. I buy all my shampoos and toiletries at my destination but usually have a bottle of Dr. Bronners as backup.

Can you give us a little more information on #19? Is there a "how to" you can point us to?

Scarves are the most awesome multi-use travel item. Like you said, a good one can be used for almost anything - a blanket, a pillow, warmth when chilly, an emergency towel, even sun protection! And you can usually crush it up and carry it in a small purse.

Jaanittava, for a 10 day trip I'd just simply and realize you're probably going to wear the same clothing multiple times between washes. Yes, it's possible. Even if you don't normally wear undershirts, get a couple really thin ones to wear under your clothing and they will soak up sweat, preventing your outer clothes from getting smelly. I'd recommend buying the undershirts and some underwear that are specifically made for travel - you can wash them in a sink and they're designed to dry superfast, so you can have fresh underwear every morning even without laundry.

Hang up any clothing you wear overnight as well, as this both dries and airs them out, and helps ease out wrinkles. If you don't mind chemicals, a wee little travel size bottle of febreeze can do absolute wonders if you liberally spray the clothing before hanging it up at night.

I pack so light that I get stopped on suspician of not being an american tourist !

suspicion !!!!! wish there was an edit button. But seriously, most of what people pack, they don't need.

It saves a lot of space if you can avoid packing shoes, and just wear the one pair on your feet. I choose a pair of slip on black shoes that are comfortable (with arch support for walking) and yet nice enough for any occasion. And yes, you have to select the rest of your wardrobe around the one pair of shoes.

Stephanie, I went to Delhi a few years ago, it was SO much colder than we expected from the weather report. I don't really have packing tips, just pack more than I did lol.

I now travel with a fauta towel -- large enough for a beach towel or travel blanket/shawl but rolls up small for my carry-on bag.

@starryeyedmusician Good idea- look for a 'how to' post soon about Google voice and using your phone abroad!

Thanks Kassgood / Sara.B. I'll be traveling to Gangoh (N.India) Let me know your thoughts on what brands you like for under garments ( underwear-undershirts) for women. Any brands you like for shoes? I bought a pair of TOMS but I think I'm needing to invest a lil more in shoes...

Thank you for your upcoming post of Google Voice Abroad :)

I'd really love to know the brands of those bags. I'm shopping around for a new bag to last for the next few years where my bf and I plan to travel Europe and Asia. I really need to get something soon!

Great packing list. I've been trying very hard to reduce the amount of stuff I pack as well. On my most recent trip, my greatest accomplishment was packing just one pair of jeans. When I pack more than that, I wear the extra pairs just because I packed them, not because I like them better.

When traveling for longer periods of time, I try to make sure I pack at least one nice outfit (usually a black dress, with appropriate shoes). Other than that, you can always buy a new t-shirt or socks if you need them.

I also have discovered that if you can't manage your bags yourself, you've packed too much. I have one rolling suitcase, and my backpack. This way my hands are free to navigate airports and subways.

Stephanie4180 - Take some cheap flipflops (or buy them there) if you plan on visiting temples/mosques/monasteries - because you often have to leave your shoes at the door, and anything nicer could get stolen. And keep a pair of thin socks in your pocket.

To add to the list (3rd World travel):
* Tiny LED flashlight
* Candle & matches acquired at my destination.
* Sun hat -- usually a crushable brimmed fedora-type thing, and a baseball cap.
* Mini tripod for camera - for shots inside buildings, or in plazas at night
* Favorite energy bars - antidote to "angry-hungry" on a too-long bus ride; also saves you from buying "street snacks" you might later regret....

Street snacks are one of the best bits of third-world travel - I can't believe anyone would eat energy bars instead!

This is all great stuff! Thanks for the help, keep more advice coming!

Great list. I always obsess about packing and end up with way more stuff than I need. Any advice for trips to colder weather climates (i.e. where you need a sweater and a coat)??

ebarrett3, I did a month last year in Europe when it was super cold/snowy with about the same sized bag. And 3 weeks in New Zealand winter with a backpack about 2/3 the size. Just can't do anything bulky except hiking boots and coat, which I was wearing all the time. Biggest thing was super lightweight + warm long underwear. And layering lighter layers. I've gotten some great pieces from Ex Officio which were worth the cost for how well designed/useful they were.

Wow - well done! The only surprise was the tablet and stylus. I think I would leave that at home. I do like the versatility of flip flops even though I don't normally wear them. When I travel I use them as slippers, but they can serve as the occasional extra shoes, in summer of course!

Can I ask where you picked up that jacket? I am looking for something similar. Thanks!

When I pack for a trip, I like to lay everything out on my bed and make sure every item can be worn together. You can make 101 outfits out of 10 items as long as they all coordinate. My biggest learning is not to bring dress up outfits with me, like high heal. They are heavy and you generally don't wear them. Oh, and bring a couple scarves. They make an outfit look new.

My biggest indulgence recently has been traveling with a bodem travel french press. I traveled to Asia for 2 weeks for business with only a carry on, and managed to fit it in! I had great coffee every morning in my room. The best indulgence when you're away from home.

I love those boots- where did you get them?

I have been to 50 countries, generally more than once. I always travel with a carry-on and often teach friends how to pack light.

The example here assumes one place for 2 months. That is a VERY different travel scenario than being on the go.

So here awesome tips:

Underpants: 3 pairs of ExOfficio. A friend and her husband went round the world for a year.

Cold>warm is the nightmare scenario. I have a down sweater, with 800 down fill. It is expensive but there are lots of knock-offs. While no where near as warm, of you live near Uniqlo, check out their down sweater or above the knee coat. They weigh nothing and are perfect for many situations. These would be perfect for Northern India, which gets nippy this time of year - and nippier if you're at altitude.

I spent a lot on a 3 ounce Patagonia rain shell, which goes over my down sweater, etc. You can find others much more cheaply but pay close attention to how much things weigh and how much room they take up.

As many clothes as possible should be made of good technical fabrics, which dry more quickly, and are lighter than cotton. Two current faves are Uniqlo Heattech and SPF, which are cheap and useful - but you need to be in good shape and not wear them as tops in conservative countries.

I carry a light weight silk and cashmere shawl - lightweight, colorful and fairly durable. I bring 4 pairs of sox - they dry slow - and 3 bras.

For cold hotel rooms and to wear under things, silk long johns and long sleeved tops.

My wear all the time sweater is merino wool because it is durable.

Multiple money belts: one under my skirt, one around my neck. And, it I need to carry a lot of cash, one that secures around my leg.

Of I am traveling somewhere funky (e.g., China) I take meds I might need if, e.g., I get food poisoning. There are just too many counterfeits, etc.

Many foreign airlines only let you carry on 7 kilos in a smaller than normal wheelie bag. This is common within the country, but sometimes internationally - Lufthansa went to that standard June 1. Since you will probably need to check your bags, carry those little plastic things that can slide through the zipper pulls - they can be cut if security needs to, but you willl always know if you do.

I carry my tech in a Scottievest. I find tote bags and back packs too hard on my shoulders and neck.

Travel health insurance, with sufficient repatriation insurance. You don't want to be really sick in lots of places.

A very lightweight large tote, if I shop and need to bring things home, and a very lightweight cross-body bag, e.g., LeSports Sac.

If you wear shoes on the plane, take either flip flops or very minimal fabric slip ons - the ones with soft soles. Critical on a long flight.

Sun hat and sun glasses. Good sunscreen. Unlocked quad band GSM phone. Buy a local SIM.

33% DEET wipes for places where there is Malaria, Denge Fever or Japanese encephalitis. A good small flashlight for power cuts and dark roads and a reflective band for dark roads.

This should get you started.

My boyfriend and I spent 3 weeks in Europe a couple of years ago and only brought one bag to check (we each had a small carry-on as well); we could have done it with less, but I have super-sensitive skin and have to bring things like toilet paper with me when I travel, as there's only one brand I know of that I can use.

You know, I find that jeans--unless you MUST have them--aren't very good for traveling. They're very bulky and take forever to dry when you wash them. I prefer lightweight knit pants (I think I got my last pair at LL Bean), since they fold or roll up into nothing, dry fast, and are super comfy. My boyfriend brings nylon hiking pants for the same reason. I also like to bring layers, so that you can wear them separately if it's warm or together if it's cold. I also brought an elastic laundry line (recommended by onebag.com) and did a little laundry each night in the hotel sink; that really reduced what we had to bring.

Great post! I think someone already asked, but could you let us know what kind of luggage you have? Looks so roomy.

I would also like to know the brand of that luggage. I recently took a 33 hour train ride on Amtrak. Miserable once they had assigned seating. The bathrooms were filthy, and passengers farther from my New England (keep to themselves) home were all spread out with smelly food, blankets, all over my seat and it was all I could do to access anything in my tiny zip up bag.

I always pack light. In Europe I almost always rent an apartment that has a washer in in. I can wear the same thing every day if it is clean. Most hotels or local neighborhoods have a washing machine (or services). I usually keep it to, 2 pairs of dressier ponte knit pants, 1 blouse, 2 knit tops, 1 cotton cardi sweater, 1 cashmere cardi sweater, 2 tank tops/camis for layering, 1 pair of tie up shoes (plus one my feet) and nesc (socks, undies, etc.) . Shampoo and toothpaste can be bought almost anywhere (I have never been to India and many people seem to be going there, so I can't vouch for this packing method in that situation). Cashmere sweaters are great--super thin, super warm, easy to layer and can look casual or dressy. I stick with mostly natural fibers.

Keep the comments coming! I love packing advice and truly appreciate all of these fantastic suggestions!

Stephanie4180 - I just came back from Northern India. Bihar province, north of Kolkata, and Kolkata. I stayed in a rural town and in the city.

- It was DAMN COLD. I wore a coat, scarf, hat and cashmere sweater several days in a row and was glad I had gloves and long socks. Buildings are made of concrete block and are damp and chilly inside, and you'd think they'd have caught on that heaters might be needed, but they haven't.
- If you are staying in any non-western hotels (cheaper and fun) - buy a beautiful sari that you can use as bedsheets when you're there, the sheets may not be super clean.
- I was glad to have a scarf and sometimes covered my hair. It was surprisingly hard to buy scarves alone in India. If you want one, go to a "matching store" and ask for dupattas. I thought there would be scarves everywhere and I was wrong.
- leggings under a skirt are great and people find you more modest when you wear long skirts. It's also worth having leggings and tank tops or camisoles to wear under traditional clothing in case you want to buy some. Tailors in your neighborhood - look for the dude with a sewing machine - can make you sari blouses and salwaar khameez/Punjabi dresses in one or two days. Try it on before you leave the tailors, no matter how embarrassed they are about it. It may need altering and they can do it then and there.
- Baby wipes. Take them everywhere. There will not always be a place to wash your hands. There will usually not be toilet paper. Also, after visiting a temple you can clean your feet before putting your shoes back on.
- Kleenex - you can't buy it in India. Little purse packs.
- Makeup wipes - the water will not always be of a quality that you want to wash your face with it.
- Contact lens solution, enough to last the trip - I never saw it for sale, though I'm sure it must be somewhere.
- I was happy to have my own soap, most hotel soap was not great.

That said, it was AMAZING and I can't wait to go back. Most people speak at least a little English, everyone is super friendly, and not all guys are hitting on you, they really do want to practice their English. If you go anywhere outside the main big city, you will get stared at all the time. If it starts to bug you, look them in the eye and do a little "namaste" with your hands - that usually breaks it up. If it still bugs you, say, "Excuse me, do you want men to stare at your sister like this? How would you feel? Go away and think about your sister." and they will usually go away. Or ask some older ladies if you can sit with them - they'll keep the guys away. No-one's violent, it just gets tiresome to be stared at.

Have a fabulous time - it's awesome!

isoscho - damn i should've thought of that! nothing like ruining a great holiday with packets of bad instant coffee

sth - ditto on jeans

my must haves for travelling are: try to book accomodation with a laundry in the room/hotel/nearby, 1-2 pairs of shoes, try to fit small items inside spare shoes, wipes, decent bar of soap, hat and sunglasses, beach towel (in Aus can't use room towels for swimming) and spare bag for souvenoirs.

i love your blog but i spent three years traveling and i gotta say: so much technology. so much nice stuff. this is why americans get all their stuff stolen in third world countries.

oooh. regarding the india question: bring coffee and a travel coffee press. you won't get quality there.

also, it's fun to pick up some booze from the duty free, if you drink. it's all rotgut.

@ALLISON WILLIAMS and others wanting to visit India:

- It is going to be cold in India. They do have space heaters there, but it's unusually rare. Remember that they don't have a lasting cold, space heaters are expensive and electricity is expensive. You won't find heaters /rugs etc. commonly used around there. City homes have space heaters only if needed. In the summer, it gets crazy hot, and therefore most of the flooring is tile or marble.
- Carry your own bedsheets or Sarees if you can. There is a bed bug issue in India, along with other assorted insects.
- You will find scarves in unlikely shops. Ask for Shawls instead of scarves. Dupattas are similar to scarves but thin in nature and they lose their color really quick. Never wash them with your regular clothes.Look for local markets setup up by Nepali people or similar people- they have a lot of winter clothes for cheap.
- Definitely take leggings. Instead of wasting time at the tailor, go to a mall and you will find cheap and good fitting leggings. They will alter your leggings as well- just like the tailor. Ofcourse, if you don't have access to a mall, a local tailor is just as good.
- There are very few places to wash your hands. Always carry a hand sanitizer. Toilet paper is not used in India- you might find it in city hotels/motels and some grocery stores.
- Kleenex - the brand itself is not available. But there are local brands that are available, just ask for them at the pharmacy stores or grocery stores.
- Makeup wipes - or carry a small bottle of 70% alcohol spray and some cotton.
- Contact lens solution are available in optician/eyewear shops or any shop that sells glasses/contact lenses.
- Buy your own soap.

If you go to the metro cities, everyone speaks English. All the signs are in English. Unless you are in a very remote area. You will get stared at a lot.
If it bugs you, DO NOT engage in any kind of conversation. Ignore and move away.
You were lucky to not be around rowdy/hooligans. Otherwise, you need to be extremely careful with these people. They get violent from time to time. Don't believe me? Read timesofindia.com and see the amount of tourists being harassed or raped in those regions everyday. And these are only the ones that were reported. Namaste is not that common as many people think it is, unless you are greeting elders/old people. I haven't said Namaste in years.
Sitting with old ladies is a good idea.

Customs and language differ from region to region with India. Mumbai is going to be a lot different as compared to places in Northern India or Bihar.
Mumbai may not be the safest place for female tourists, but is safer as compared to Delhi and other north regions. Always travel in groups, if you can.

@WURLDKLASS
Indians generally don't drink coffee, so you won't find good quality coffee there. Unless you are travelling to metro cities and have access to baristas/cafes.

Everyone else- thanks so much for the tips. I love traveling light, however, I am guilty of packing too much. It's probably because I pack my clothes, shoes and everything else in garment/cloth bags. I do that to protect them from water, food stuff, stains, anything else that they are exposed to during travel. I have had issues when handlers in Mumbai would leave the suitcase out in the pouring rain or handlers in Europe letting it sit in the snow. Also had issues with Indian food leaking all over the place- hence the excessive packing.
I have recently started to buy light down gear from North Face and Patagonia. Extremely warm and light. Something you might want to consider if you are visiting cold places.

I think when travelling to somewhere colder it is not that impossible to take along as little as mentioned above. The main thing is to wear the jacket and boots while travelling.

I always bring thermal camisoles for layering. Thin cashmere sweaters and pashminas are also useful when traveling as they are lightweight, warm and can be rolled up small.

Love the post! It's helpful to see what other women wear, and I totally agree w/the dresses as travel uniform! I backpacked around Europe years ago for 1 year and yes, it can be done w/one bag! Now that I'm older and wiser, I know to pack even less than I did . For some great ideas on how to pack that one bag, check out http://www.onebag.com/pack.html/. I swear, I thought rolling my clothes was the way to go, until I tried the "bundle wrapping" technique this world traveller uses. My last two trips, I was able to fit all my stuff, w/room to spare for souvenirs.

Oh, how I wish this post was 13 years earlier :) For our honeymoon to Hawaii, I made my husband back a dark suit. Yes, a suit, to Hawaii. We had FOUR suitcases for the 2 of us. Not the carryon size, either. I was ridiculous! It was all my fault, thinking I would need even 1/10th of those clothes. I still overpack, but now it's more like 2 t-shirts & a sweater too much. Now that we have 2 kiddos, we try to tell them to only pack a couple of outfits for a week's visit. Since they have their own little wheelie suitcases, they have plenty of room left for a couple of toys & books & art supplies. This past summer, we went to NC & SC for almost 3 weeks with 3 small wheelie bags & 1 checked bag for our family of 4. Best packing job ever for us :) Not nearly as good as all you previous posters, but great for us!

My only advice is to use ziplock bags (with a true zipper) to store your socks and undies, because if you strategically sit or kneel on the bag while zipping it, you can turn it into a vacuum-compression bag!! I save lots and lots of space that way!

Thanks for all of the great comments! It's great to hear everyone's suggestions for travel in different parts of the world.

Re: suitcases: I use a Briggs and Riley BRX 19" and Lipault laptop bag. I've just finished a post for tomorrow detailing these purchases and the runners up while shopping for luggage.

Re: jacket: So sorry, but it was a vintage find so I'm afraid I can't source it for you! I've had it for about 10 years and it just gets better with age!

Re: boots: Sweedish Hasbeens. Love.

Re: laundry: I bought some detergent here and do a small batch of underwear, socks, etc. once per week. Laundry services in BA are really great and inexpensive, so we take everything there about once every two weeks or so.

Re: cold climates: After living in Chicago for 10 years, part of the inspiration for this trip was to stay away from winter! That said, we each have a small suitcase with winter clothes that currently resides at my in-laws. This way, if we're visiting family during the holidays, or traveling to somewhere colder, we can change out our luggage. However, our plan for the time being, is to stay warm!

If you plan on cooking or getting your food from markets, it's a good idea to pack (or pick up when you arrive) a flat, plastic plate that can double as a cutting board and a swiss army knife. I backpacked with a 3oz bottle of Sriracha, and an altoid tin of spices and teas that made many delicious dinners and it was great to share with other travelers.

Stephanie4180: Re India, I live in Kolkata and have lived in New Delhi, which is very likely to be the airport you fly in through to get to Gangoh.

Many of the things mentioned you will be able to get readily at the airport itself or in nearby malls. It is a major metro and full of expats who shop for all their accustomed mod cons all the time, so no need to lug large packets of the following (bring a small pack, and as long as you have at least half a day before you journey on, you can buy bigger sizes at the nearest mall):

1. make-up wipes --- check at a drugstore or go to the mall for one of the larger supermarkets: Spencer's, Big Bazaar, Reliance, etc

2. Kleenex --- ask for 'tissue paper' in India at the smaller neighhourhood shops that seem to sell groceries; or at a medical store (drugstore); or watch out for urchins selling it at the traffic lights, who come right up to your cab

3. lens solutions --- go to the optician or to the nearest drugstore

4. toilet paper --- yes, you're going to want to carry your own for public toilets (we traditionally clean ourselves with water and not paper, though modern urban Indians are adopting the latter in homes, offices and hotels), but again easily bought at drugstores or supermarkets.

5. disinfectant wipes --- can also be readily bought in urban India; but even more useful is a disinfectant solution, which lasts longer. Again, check at drugstores (medicine stores, here)

6. Soap and shampoo and moisturiser and sunscreen and toothpaste and suchlike --- seriously, people! This is the 21st century. Wake up and smell the globalization! There is not only plenty of soap to be had if you want to buy your own and not use the hotel's, but there are even brands you will recognize from home like Dove, Neutrogena, Clinique, etc. Excellent natural, organic and handmade soaps in India are found in various nice shops (if at a mall, look for a Fabindia store, for one). Yes, it is true that your choices will be v limited in Gangoh itself, but it is not as if you will NOT find these at all --- just perhaps not the range or quality you are used to, especially since you won't be familiar with the local brands.

Re coffee, you COULD bring your own if you are particular, but I beg to differ with Rajju. Southern India has more of a coffee habit than tea, and now that all Indians are travelling all over India and moving across the country to study, work, marry, raise children... yes, you guessed it! There is coffee too. The issue is again an urban/rural divide --- Gangoh is not likely to have great options for coffee. if stocking up in Delhi, you may as well go to a larger supermarket again or to a dedicated grocery store (Le Marche, Food Bazaar, Reliance Fresh, Modern Bazar, many of which are in large market blocks or in malls) and ask for 'Devans' for filter coffee; or just buy Nescafe's better variants if instant is okay by you. Alternatively, walk into one of the many cafe chains (we don't have Starbucks; we do have Barista, Cafe Coffee Day, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Costa, and sundry others) to pick up your French press or filter kit and a pack of Illy, Lavazza or the house blend. Most of these are grown in India --- you did know Illy and Lavazza buy much of their coffee from India, right? That's right!

Unless you plan to actually WEAR a saree or decorate with it back home or some such, there is really no need to buy a saree. Get an extra sheet, for heaven's sake! Scarves can be found in Kolkata if you know where to look, but are far far more common in the cooler north of the country. A dupatta is a fine idea --- and for eff's sake, they don't ALL bleed! I've washed my coloured ones and white ones together in a machine for a decade with no issues; but yes, if you're buying off the street or out of a smaller shop, it's best to know they MAY bleed. A BETTER idea is a shawl. Yes, you can bring one; yes, you can also buy one here, though you MAY be cheated in terms of the fibre content unless you are shopping at a better branded store or at a state-run emporium. But this time of year, there are enough shawls and dupattas to buy everywhere.

The best thing you could buy --- again, ask at the smaller neighbourhood stores or a medical store for advice and help, or better still, go to a place that seems to be selling kitchen things (pots, pans etc) of some variety in a busy market or ask at a supermarket --- is a water filtration system you can carry with you. Bottled water can be spurious or contaminated (ALWAYS check the seal, but be aware that it is easy to replace the original with a fair copy easily enough), especially if you are in a smaller town and find you haven't many options. So what you want is either a small pen-like device that 'e-boils' the water --- basically kills the germs with ultraviolet radiation; or a small filter (the size of a large spice jar) that you can fit to any tap to get drinking water from. You will still want to buy bottled water, for carrying with you and storage; but at least this way you have a back-up system.

Bring shoes you can wash or scrub; or those you don't mind getting bashed around. Yes, flip-flops are handy is security or muck turn out to be an issue (depends where you stay and what you plan to do); but again, easily bought for less than a dollar by the roadside, and for a couple of dollars at a large shoe store like Bata or Bharat (even smaller towns have these); and if you have fussy feet like me, just go to the nearest sports brand store (Nike, Puma, Adidas, Fila, whatever floats your boat) --- again found in any big mall or market neighbourhood (commercial areas) in big cities. Personally, I'm a fan of Crocs, though more expensive. You can even pour bleach or boiling water on them for hygiene concerns, and they look just as solidly clunky as ever. :-D

For garments, yes, Gangoh will be godawfully cold around now. Bring thick sweaters and warm long underclothes, a cap or a hooded jacket too. Bring extra socks and mitts. A muffler is handy, though a woollen shawl or scarf would be more versatile. It's also pretty damp, so avoid things that feel clammy in humid weather or don't dry fast. Woollen pants or hiking pants that stand up to the elements are better than jeans for comfort as well as compactness. Keep the 'nice' clothes to one or two outfits (you might be tempted to buy them here, much cheaper!). Get tops and bottoms that cover your arms and legs --- pants are better than long skirts (being quite similar to traditional salwar-kameez outfits) and more versatile; but be aware that you will attract attention if you wear very 'body-conscious' clothing. It helps if your tops are longer, tunic-length; but then again, no one really expects you to 'fit in', they know you are not from these parts and put your 'eccentricity' down to your 'foreign-ness', don't worry!

There is often no room heating because electricity is unreliable and construction (brick and mortar, concrete) does not allow for easy retro-fitting of vents etc. Power cuts for several hours a day mean even the presence of a space heater will not help you all that much. You may or may not have access to hot water, so I'd keep that in mind (if you're planning to wash your clothes in a bucket or sink) and pack extra. (No, don't panic --- deo or anti-perspirant is also readily bought if you find yourself unwashed a bit too long for comfort!) Generally, hotels and hosts will help you to hot water with a little notice --- it just may come in a bucket or a kettle rather than out of a tap, in some cases. If there is a geyser (to heat tap water) in the bathroom, it will need to be switched on about 10-15 minutes before you want said hot water. Yes, it will be switched off most of the time. Very expensive else.

And don't be self-conscious about the 'namaste' --- not a common greeting all over because the language differs and the gesture is a fairly formal one; but recognized everywhere for the polite greeting it is and appreciated likewise.

What you DO want to being are your medicines. Equivalents will be known by very different names or may not be readily available in smaller towns especially.

Good luck, Stephanie, and hope you enjoy your visit to India. We're not so bad, really!
:-D

Thanks for this article. I will be in Europe for a month this summer and hoping to get an apartment with a washer and dryer in France to help keep the clothing to a minimum but any help in how to pack light is always welcome for me!

I always chuckle reading these sorts of articles because so often they universalize that which is often a pretty individual experience. Honestly, I'd rather have more clothing/toiletries than a bag full of tech gear that could easily be stolen or lost and which would probably put a damper in an otherwise lovely traveling experience.

Such a great post! I have been learning to pack light myself and it is amazing how it easy it can be with just a little thought and planning. You should check out http://www.1bag1world.com It gives a ton of info on packing light including packing lists and gear reviews. These people have been everywhere and can help you pack appropriately!

Love this! As someone who lives in a warm place (Hawaii), comfy dresses are a great option for hot weather.

Someone mentioned this is not helpful for cold weather packing, well it is, you can still apply some of the same concepts of minimizing and multi use. I find when I visit cold places I can actually bring less pieces too than I'd wear at home in a week because I can reuse more (not humid and sweaty).

I don't ever ever leave my ereader at home even if I'm bringing a laptop or ipad. The battery on the kindle is much more long lasting. I don't sleep well on planes so my reader has to go for hours on end. Plus it is easier on the eyes...kindles really don't take up much room either, it's worth the space in my book (get it? my book :-) )

@Rodosee Thank you so much for all the great advice! I really appreciate it!

@RODOSEE Thank you for posting some of the same information as I did. I guess you don't 'beg to differ' with me on those points.
And yes- I really didn't suppose any of the visitors or natives of India here meant to say that 'we are or we are not so bad' in India.

Dupattas will bleed, even if you buy the kind from the malls from Reliance or whatever. Treat every dupatta like they will bleed. Better safe than sorry.
Camelbak has one of those water purifier canteen things- I forgot the name. It is something you can carry around as well.

Stephanie- as RODOSEE said- everything is available in India. You just need to look around.
Southern India may have loads of coffee varieties, still doesn't have has many as elsewhere.
Regarding medicines, research their generic names and buy those at the local shops made by reputed pharmaceutical companies. Get your vaccinations at your local pharmacy/country though. Malarial propphylactic drugs are expensive India, especially if you have insurance in your home country to cover the costs.
Always, always have a pack or two of electrolytes.
And hand sanitizers. I cannot stress how important it is. Especially with all the drug resistant TB going around, and the season of flu.

I really love all this advice. Both in the article itself and in the comments. I am going from wintery Norway to live in Brisbane, Australia for 5 to 6 months studying.
I'm good at packing in tiny bags when I go on vacation (always bring an extra folded up bag for anything I might buy), but this is just daunting.
I don't want to take more than one checked suitcase The idea of just taking a carry-on seems impossible to me, I have to bring things like towels, and all bed sheets and pillows and blankets and such, as I can't afford to re-buy all those things, and also can't count on renting somewhere that has them. I am also bringing my hiking backpack, as I will be doing some traveling while I am there that is unsuited for suitcases. But I am considering just packing that in my checkin-bag (Too big to be my carry-on unfortunately).
I'm leaving in about three weeks, and I've started test packing as I hate leaving this sort of thing to the last minute. It is not going very well.
Any tips for a very low budget, worry filled student?

I was staring at these pictures going, "That's tons of stuff!" then I found the 3-month time frame and I'm definitely impressed. Most people would pack almost everything they own. I take a duffel bag for a week and it's usually half-empty.

Buy your undergarments from eastern mountain sports --you can get all types and they are easy to wash/ quick dry for travel. They're also comfy. I also pack some cash so I can buy a piece of clothing (Ireland = wax jacket, India = salwar kameez, Italy= shoes) usually my only souvenirs are clothing.

@ MIRIAM R.G
Have you tried the Dri-soft towels from BBB? They are like $10, but extremely light and absorbent, and dry really quick.
Single fitted bedsheets from Ikea are cheap and extremely light. I am not sure about durability though.
If you can buy air pillows to save on space, do that. Or use some space bags to compact them.

Like a few other commenters, I'm puzzled by the amount of technology you want to include. An e-reader AND a tablet AND a smartphone AND a laptop. Seriously? I thought the point of travel is to get away from your usual environment. Or is EVERYONE a blogger these days?

I'd take a cellphone for emergencies and a camera.

@RAJJU077 What type of plug adapter would you buy for India? What type of hair dryers would you recommend traveling with?

You can usually find special underwear and bras that are designed to dry quickly (expensive and not so pretty, but definitely worth it when you consider the suitcase space and washing time you will save!). When I was travelling for 5 weeks in Turkey, I just brought an iPod to contact home -- it's small, and perfect if you are going to a country that regularly has wifi. I also brought my lug bag, because it has a compartment in the bottom for your shoes -- that means when you go to temples or mosques, you can put your shoes in your bag. Nobody accidentally takes your shoes, and nothing in your bag gets dirty! I also found small laundry soap sheets. It was perfect for doing laundry. A container the size of a matchbox held enough for over 50 loads! (Think of the crest breath-strip things, but the strip is soap). I also mailed back anything bulky that I purchased, and bought a purse while I was there specifically for bringing home breakable souvenirs.

Things I would add to the list: bedbug bag for your suitcase, and medication like Imodium and gravol. This is one example where I would prefer to have them and NOT need them than to not have them and need them.

So many great tips from the post and comments. Bookmarking this for future reference.

Have to say though, unless I was traveling for work and really needed all that technology, I would leave it all home, except for a cell for emergencies and a camera, and opt for pen and paper to record my impressions of the trip. Kinda old fashioned, I guess.

I wish I could just pack for a vacation because this would be nice! However when I travel it's for 2-3 months and it's for research (archaeology). I have too much equipment to bring, and I work in the North Atlantic (cold much?) which means a lot of thick clothing. I have found that having a limited amount of clothing is good...where you have a dryer or are in a warmer environment. In the event of a cold and wet location where dryers are not exactly common use, it could take a week for clothes that are strung up to dry. I have gone to work with damp undies more than once. Not very cool.

What I find that helps is (assuming you aren't too picky) to buy your toiletries locally, and also bring throw away clothes. At least in archaeology, your pants can stand on their own after about a week, so I toss them before I return. This results in a lighter suitcase on the way back. Put less money into knick knacks and more into experiences. Less to bring back once again.

This article does note a really great tip: wearing your bigger and bulkier clothes to the airport, like boots, coats, sweaters and such. It works better for me when I am coming from the US in summer to areas that are much colder.

I would also leave most of the technology home, as some agreed. I'm often in the middle of no where and without internet access, I just load up on calling cards/receipts and use the phone wherever I am at. I call my sweetie for 10-30 minutes every day to check in and update on things. I also am very busy with local activities so I don't need much in terms or entertainment. I also relish the time away from cell phones so it's quite ideal for me. The only thing that has been nice to have is my Kindle. I tend to read for a few minutes in bed every evening, and it's nice to have on the flight.

The #1 most useful item I have ever packed has been a real Pashmina scarf. It was around $150 on sale, but I've had it 10 years now. It's machine washable with Woolite & dries quickly. I've even dried it on low heat.

Once, my luggage was lost on New Years Eve Day, on a trip to a rather remote Caribbean island. It was lost for 4 days of my 7 day vacation, on an island with limited shopping.
I brought only food in my carry on bag, since there wasn't any real food on the island. I managed to score a pair of flip flops and a pink muu muu, some toothpaste, sunscreen, shampoo, but that was it! I wore that pashmina as a pareo / dress every day, wrapped in different ways it actually worked out very well. Thank goodness I wore a plain black bra and black boy shorts under my jeans on the plane – this served as my swimsuit. By the time my luggage was found, I didn't even want it. I learned a lot about myself and about packing light on that trip.

I've since used the pashmina as a pillow, a blanket (many, MANY times), a wrap, and a skirt, and will continue to use it until it falls apart!

I spent a month in Europe with 2 panniers and a tiny sailbag that held a tent, inflatable mattress, and an extra pair of shoes. Wore my Keens all the time and finally left the other shoes for someone else. One pair of very good brown pants, one pair of black coullottes. One jacket, one shawl, light sleeping bag and piece of polar fleece. Instead of a computer, used a small hand-held. If I wanted the computer, I'd use one at a cafe or in a hotel. One sweater, one stretchy top, light night gown, camisole, sari-like cloth that could be used as a dress or a sheet. Browns, greens, black. Had both a small bike light that charged off a USB or 9 volt. Also one of those LED tops for a 9 volt battery. Adapters (various) for camera, palm pilot, phone were the bulkiest. Plenty of room to accumulate. Instead of a purse, made a non-descript brown/black back pack with hidden inside pockets and base. Toothbrush, face cream. Cloth bag that folded into its own 2"x3" pocket. Very simple. Toward the end was carrying yarns, art, paper, .... Boxed that up and went home with two panniers (one worn as a backpack, one over the shoulder) and the little sailbag. Oh, and my bike. Next time, I'll pick up a bike there.

For my son's wedding in Hawaii, a three week stay: one pannier. Bought a surfboard, so it was a bit more coming home.

When everything fits together it's a lot more enjoyable. If something else is really needed, buy it there. Good for them, good for the memories.

Also, live in a yurt and am getting ready to move back into a 180 sq ft houseboat. I have a big storage unit. Still working on that.

The tips to do light packing is helpful. Well, the packing depends on the person and their basic need. I preferring carry accessories common on all the outfits. So that I shouldn't carry multiples of things. There should be only two bags if one has to travel lightly.

Boston Events

@ISOSCHO- agree on the coffee press. I've traveled the world with carry ons only and with kids and that is the one thing I must pack. Even in countries with good coffee its often a bit of navigation and work to get to somewhere with coffee- and I need coffee to do that.

In colder weather, layers are the key, I will take tank tops (which can be worn on their own), longer sleeve shirts, light pullovers or cardigans (also can be worn as jacket in warmer climate), pack-able rain jacket, plus down sweater (which can go into a little pillowcase and doubles as a travel pillow.) If you put all that on at once, you will be warm. Mittens/gloves and a knit hat take up very little space and can add a lot of warmth. And if it gets warmer those things can accommodate lots of climates.

I'm surprised everyone is bashing the amount of technology, this is a pretty light load if someone is doing work/photography/just generally staying in touch for an extended period. Granted, you wouldn't need this much for a week vacation but for three months abroad? This is pretty streamlined, think about how much you use at home! I've taken twice this much and still packed pretty lightly, if you want to work while you travel, thats usually part of it and these items are hard to replace in some areas so its good to have some redundancy.