Who says you can't get by in India with just a carry on suitcase? Everyone, apparently. The people I spoke with--colleagues, friends--think I am insane.
I'm leaving tomorrow for a three-week tour of northern India. My friend's wedding prompted me to buy tickets, and my love of travel caused me to stay longer than even her five-day wedding celebrations would require. I will need traditional Indian clothes for the festivities anyway, which got me thinking: why not just buy most of my clothing over there?
This is a bit of an experiment. There's a definite possibility I could get over there and realize I'm missing something. But who cares? I think I have accounted for the essentials (passport, money, camera, underwear...), so the rest is just about creature comfort.
What I'm wearing on the plane:
I'm leaving tomorrow for a three-week tour of northern India. My friend's wedding prompted me to buy tickets, and my love of travel caused me to stay longer than even her five-day wedding celebrations would require. I will need traditional Indian clothes for the festivities anyway, which got me thinking: why not just buy most of my clothing over there?
This is a bit of an experiment. There's a definite possibility I could get over there and realize I'm missing something. But who cares? I think I have accounted for the essentials (passport, money, camera, underwear...), so the rest is just about creature comfort.
What I'm wearing on the plane:
- Old barefoot running shoes (and socks). Not great for running, but good for daily walking. Can be left behind with little regret if necessary.
- Spandex jeans. Perfectly comfortable and functional. I chose these over yoga pants for the flight because pockets come in handy.
- Black tank top. I know India is a conservative country, but layers are always key.
- Black fleece. India is hot you say? Well over-air-conditioned planes, the Himalayas, and desert nights are all cold.
- Winter jacket. See above for cold. Also, my North Face can be bunched up so small it fits in my purse (with some effort).
- Camera and lenses
- Pens. Always handy in customs.
- Clothing essentials
- 3 pair of yoga pants
- 1 long skirt
- 1 long sleeve shirt
- 1 tank top + 2 T-shirts
- 1 light sweater
- 14 pair of underwear
- 2 sports bras
- 6 pair of socks
- 1 bathing suit
- 1 pair of walking flats (think Toms but not)
- Electronics
- Toiletries
- Basically anything you can buy at Duane Reade
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Misc.
- Granola bars
- Money belt (which is actually a running belt)
- Sunglasses
- Drawstring backpack (You know, a super thin one like this)