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Bengaluru packing list

Everything you actually need for Bengaluru, and nothing you don't — with notes on what's specific to this destination.

Bengaluru, India packing list

16 items across 5 categories — 10 marked essential.

Passport/VisaEssential
Ensure validity for entry into India.
Indian Rupee (INR)Essential
Carry some cash for smaller vendors and auto-rickshaws, though digital payments are common.
Credit/Debit CardsEssential
Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid holds.
Digital Copies of Documents
Store copies of passport, visa, and tickets separately.

Lightweight, breathable clothingEssential
Bengaluru has a tropical savanna climate; expect warmth and humidity year-round.
Modest attire for religious sitesEssential
Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples or other sacred places.
A light scarf or shawl
Useful for sun protection, a bit of warmth in air-conditioned spaces, or modesty.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven surfaces.

Universal Travel AdapterEssential
India uses Type D and Type M plugs, with a voltage of 230V.
Portable Power Bank
Useful for keeping devices charged on the go, especially during longer excursions.

Hand SanitizerEssential
Essential for hygiene when facilities are not readily available.
Personal First-Aid KitEssential
Include basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal prescriptions.
Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be present, especially in evenings or near green spaces.
Medications for Upset StomachEssential
It's wise to be prepared for potential digestive issues from new foods or water.

Small gifts (optional)
If visiting someone's home, a small token like sweets or a local craft is appreciated.
Phrasebook or Translation App
While English is widely spoken in Bengaluru, knowing a few Kannada phrases can be helpful.

•Tap water is generally not potable; stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth.
•Traffic in Bengaluru can be intense. Factor in extra travel time for journeys, especially during peak hours.
•Digital payment apps like Google Pay and PhonePe are extremely popular and widely accepted, often more so than cards in smaller establishments.
•Pharmacies (known as 'medical stores') are abundant and easily accessible for most common over-the-counter medications.
•Bargaining is common in markets and with auto-rickshaws, but expect fixed prices in established shops and malls.

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