WHAT YOU NEED TO PACK FOR KERALA: ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Last Updated on 25th June 2024 by Bejal

You have nailed down your perfect 10 day itinerary to Kerala but when it comes to packing, you have no idea what to wear? This guide aims to address all your concerns surrounding what you need to pack for Kerala considering local dress code, cultural awareness in regards to what to wear during the differing climates across Kerala.

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The weather in Kerala is variable, ranging from crisp and cool hill stations in Munnar to the balmy humid beaches and backwaters. Trying to decipher what to pack for Kerala can be rather tricky but lightweight, cotton, layers that are breathable are probably the best option, with a sprinkling of sensible, practical pieces to keep luggage at a minimum.

This guide about what to pack for Kerala is essentially a detailed list, which will help with packing according to which season you’ll be visiting and the particular part of Kerala your heading to.

Packing tips included are relevant to both men and women as well as the other essentials, like luggage electricals, tech gear, personal accessories and more that will help you look comfortable as well as a little glam throughout your time travelling in Kerala. What you need to pack for Kerala for each destination, can seem daunting, especially for first time visitors to India, this guide is your resource for taking the stress out of compiling what to wear with a touch of glamour!

Essentials to Note About This Guide

• This list is for a 10-14 night trip in Kerala between December and January with accommodation in mid-range to luxury eco-friendly resorts, a tree house and a houseboat.
• This list does not assume a laundry service will be provided at your accommodation, although most of these hotels have their own laundering facilities for a fee.
• Please note: list may be more pertinent to females but please substitute and dismiss as relevant.**

If you are still in the midst of finalising your Kerala itinerary, here are some articles that may help with decision-making as well as travel tips:

• Inspiration on Itinerary plaiing and FAQ’s, plan the perfect 10 day Kerala itinerary
• If you love heritage and culture, with a coastal vibe, spend 48 hours in Fort Kochi.
• For stunning views, tea plantations, walking and tree houses, factor in 3 days in Munnar
• Wildlife-lovers will not want to miss things to do in Thekkady
• A must-do thing for anyone visiting Kerala is to experience the backwaters around Alleppey
• End your trip with some relaxing, in the peaceful and quaint fishing resorts of Marari Beach

What The Locals Wear In Kerala 

It’s quite apparent that many of the locals stick to wearing the local dress. This is firstly to be respectful to their culture and secondly these clothes have stood the test of time and are ideal for the climate.

Traditional Dress

As Hinduism is the most common religion in Kerala…

Hindu women will often wear the ‘Mundum Neriyathum’, which is generally a plane saree with embroidery around the edges. The classic colour is white or cream with gold thread embroidery on the border, called a kara. It is made up of a blouse that overs the top half of the body and the 6.25 metre (7 yards) is wrapped around the body, with pleats and laid over the shoulder. 

Hindu men will traditionally wear the Kerala dhoti or Mundu. The mundu is 2-3 meters in length falls to the ankles and is wrapped around the waist, with parts sometimes pulled up. It also has a gold kara style border, In the rural fishing villages around Alleppey and other remote areas, men wear a Kasavu, which is like a Mundu but woven from thicker fabric.

Other religions in Kerala also wear sarees and Mundus but you’ll see more hindus wearing them. Christian women also wear the Keralan saree at special functions. 

Casual Dress

Western clothing is worn but is kepy pretty modest. Women will wear dresses and skirts to below the knees. Nothing really strappy and low cut!, Cotton blouses with elbow length or long sleeves are preferred. Men stick to casual thin cotton trousers and a shirt or T-shirts. Men do wear very casual knee length shorts too.

Be-lavie Tip: Although the dress code in Kerala is a little more relaxed than in other parts of India,  the rule of thumb should be to dress as modestly as possible at all times. Tight or cleavage revealing clothing is a no no. Be respectful of the local culture and take lead from what others are wearing. 

What To Pack For Kerala: Tips For Women

Some tips for women which can help with what to pack

• Take skirts covering knees, covering shoulders and especially nothing revealing cleavage.
• Trousers and knee length shorts are acceptable, however we did not take shorts.
• Maxi dresses are perfect, loose t-shirt dresses below the knees and mid length dresses with a non revealing neckline
• Avoid strappy vests and fully exposed shoulders as well as low cut tops.

Be-lavie Tip: When visiting temples cover shoulders and wear ankle length clothing or you may not be allowed entry.

What To Pack For Kerala: Tips For Men

Some tips for men which may help with what to pack:

• T-shirts, cotton shirts, trousers, knee length shorts.
• Linen and cotton trousers are the best for drying as we discovered first hand, so try to avoid denim even though you’ll see locals wearing jeans a lot. We found it just made us feel quite uncomfortable with the thick natur eof denim.

• Swimsuits & Bikinis for Women: If your accommodation has a pool or you have a private villa with a pool, swimming costumes are completely fine to wear. If walking through communal areas, ensure you wear a cover up. Bikinis are not so common to wear in Kerala so maybe save these for your private pool villa. On the beach and at public waterfalls, you will not see local women wearing a swimming costume, Observe modesty and follow their lead with opting to wear shorts and a t-shirt.
• Shorts for men: We think that possibly not wearing shorts can show respect of the local culture, especially in more village and remote areas. We did however see staff at our accommodation wearing shorts as part of their uniform, especially drivers. If the locals look like they are wearing shorts where you are, opt for casual knee length shorts, but never anything like hot pants, which is a big no no for ladies in general.

Be-lavie Tip: Only take hiking shoes if you are doing a lot of hiking in places like Munnar. Otherwise trainers orAlways check your shoes before putting them on in Kerala as even in high-end resorts and hotels creepy crawlies can find their way in, and that can be said for hotels in the city as well as remote locations.

Season-Friendly Packing for Kerala

It makes complete sense to pack according to the seasons that you plan to travel in. As there is quite the disparity in climate between destinations in Kerala. We’d also suggest pack according to where you’re heading. For example, places like Munnar & Thekkady require layers as they can be cool in the summer evenings.

Summer (March -June)

• Average temperatures: 28 – 35 °C (82 – 95 °F).
• What to wear: lightweight, breathable cotton, linen or specific moisture-wicking clothing. The humidity is sticky and you may wish to change clothing a couple of times per day.

Monsoon (June-Mid August)

• Temperatues: 20 – 30 °C (68 – 86 °F).
• What to wear: Waterproof footwear or sandals with a good grip. The ground can get slippery. take a light weight raincoat and waterproof roll top bags to protect valuables. such as a camera and other tech gear.

Waterproof bag recommendation: These Nordlight dry bags are waterproof and come in different sizes making them perfect to store cameras and valuables during rainy and wet weather. They are perfect to take on long walks and hikes.

Be-lavie Tip: The monsoon brings lush green landscapes, overflowing waterfalls but a large proportion of activities are paused or closed due to so much rainfall. Even though it may be Monsoon season do not forget to carry mosquito repellent and sunscreen.

Rainy Season (August – October)

• Temperatures, 23 – 32 °C (73 – 86 °F).

• What to wear: Light cotton/ linen clothing plus a rain coat for unexpected showers.

Winter (November -February)

• Temperatures, 18 – 28 °C (64 – 82 °F).

• What to wear: Light cotton clothes and carry an umbrella.

The Best Season to visit Kerala for minimal Packing 

The winter season, from Late November to late February is the most preferred time to visit Kerala by tourists. We also visited in December, but around Christmastime. It was pretty busy but we opted for low key, more remote accommodation.

During this time visitors can see the lush green landscapes, following the monsoon, the perfect manageable weather conditions. But on the flip season, this is also considered the peak season, which generally starts in October and ends in March. Popular places will be more crowded, accommodation and activities will be a lot pricier and be in demand so remember to book ahead. 

What You Need to Pack for Kerala: The List

Luggage

Suitcase

A medium sized suitcase for a 10-14 day itinerary is perfect, preferably one on rollers for ease. Also note your international flight allowances. 

Suitcase recommendation: This British Traveller 24”medium lightweight suitcase is perfect for a 10-14 day trip to Kerala. It comes with four wheels, a built in TSA lock, with a capacity of 60 L. The internal lining has been certified as eco-friendly.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game changer. They come in useful sizes for trips to separate your luggage contents into different outfit packs for example, travel, undergarments, safari clothing etc as well as organise your toiletries and cables etc for electrical items. Clothing can be tightly packed into these cubes by rolling and usually store with minimal creasing too. We cannot recommend these enough.

Packing Cube recommendations: This nine piece waterproof compression packing cubes set include clothing storage, toiletries as well as shoes and cosmetics.

Small Across Body Bag & Card Holder

A small across body bag can come in handy with a credit card holder especially if you’re heading to dinner in cities like Kochi and you don’t really want to be carrying around a backpack. The small bag can be easily stored and will hold the basics like some cash, cards, keys and a mobile phone.

Across Body Bag & Credit Card Holder Recommendations The Woodlands leather across body bag that will also team up as a bum bag and is bang on trend. For a complementing credit card holder, that can be used at home and away by Gryphen is perfect. The Hoxton Two Fold Leather Credit Card Holder is handmade and has six credit card slots.

Photography Backpack

A photography backpack is essential if you’re planning to take shots of landscapes and wildlife. It’s a good idea to have your photography backpack double up as a daily bag so you can also carry a refillable water bottle, snacks, binoculars as well as a camera, lenses, spare batteries etc.

A sturdy back pack that also looks great for travel and blends in with landscapes is a bonus but not essential. With regards to the backpack we use, the lower half opens to reveal adjustable camera gear sections perfect for your camera and lenses as well as other electrical cables and leads.

The top portion is useful for carrying snacks, extra layers etc, and there’s a section at the back that can carry a tablet or laptop quite easily. There are two side pockets which are handy for a tripod and water bottle. The bag also has a waterproof covering that fits over the top of the whole bag and protects against showers.

Photography Backpack Recommendations: A dedicated Bagsmart photography backpack that has a waterproof cover and front open compartment for all your lenses is also competitively priced.

Other Useful Kerala Accessories

Some travellers will opt to purchase a SIM card in Kerala, however we decided against this, especially as we knew that all of our accommodation had wifi.

Instead, we downloaded Google maps to all the places of interest. Additionally we travelled with our trusty Lonely Planet Guide. You can also purchase detailed Kerala maps too, although you can pick these up at hotels in Kerala – it’s best to be prepared!

Guide Recommendation: The Lonely Planet South India & Kerala Guide is really great for the most ip to date information of all things Kerala. It’s also a wonderful guide to South India if you are planning to travel to other regions such as Goa.

Travel Adapters

UK or US travel adapters will not work in Kerala and prevent you from charging any of your electronic devices. Many of the usual travel adaptors you’ll encounter don’t have the option to work in Kerala. There are two associated plug types, types D and M. Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern and plug type M is the plug which has three round pins. Kerala operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Type D, was more commonly used at at the hotels that we stayed.

Travel Adapter Recommendations: These 3 pack Type D travel adaptors are commonly used and are pretty compact plus work well in. Kerala from our expereicne.

Power Banks

If you don’t already have a power bank, it’ll be a good investment for your Kerala trip. It comes in handy if you like to use your phone for taking umpteen videos and photos on your smart phones so best to never run out of charge. There are a lot of power banks on the market. Try and purchase one that’s compact but also can charge your phone a couple of times before having to be re-charged.

Power Bank Recommendations: A popular choice and one of our absolute must-haves is this INIU power bank, which is slim and lightwood and can be used for a range of smart phones.

Photography Equipment 

Binoculars

If you’re planning to visit some of the national parks by yourself such as Eravikilum and Periyar then having a pair of binoculars can help with spotting animals hidden by vegetation, especially to get a magnified image of birds.

Smart Phone

The iPhone, came in very handy for taking videos of landscapes as well as animals. A mobile phone is also very useful with downloading Google maps for getting around when you are travelling without guides and hunting down points of interest.

Camera & Lens

A good camera such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera will make all the difference in getting some fantastic quality images, especially of the wildlife at the national parks.

The Nikon Zfc is a great mirrorless option with a vintage camera feel and is light too. The Nikon Z 24-70mm F4 S Lens is great as a grab and go everyday lens but also takes fantastic wide angle images.

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife photography, especially in places such as Periyar where animals can be some distance away. The Sigma 100-400mm f5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens is perfect with the Nikon Zfc mentioned above and will require a Sigma 100-400mm f5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens – Nikon Fit and Nikon FTZ II Mount Adapter to ensure a snug fit.

Tripod

Wildlife and landscape photography with a telephoto lens reduces shake and captures sharper images when attached to a  tripod. Try and search for a lightweight tripod. Manfrotto generally have a great range of tripods., like this Manfrotto Element MII Camera Tripod

Memory Cards & Spare Camera Battery

Remember to take a battery charger as well as a spare camera battery with you. You don’t want the camera battery to die in the middle of a wonderful wildlife, landscape, cultural dance or nightscape scene!

Take a few memory cards with you such as the SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB SDXC Memory Card up to 170MB/s, you can end up filling these fast in Kerala because the wildlife and landscapes are such great photo opportunities.

Clothing to Pack

• A shawl or thin jumper/cardigan for the cooler evenings in Munnar.
• A fold-away rain mac – just incase of the odd downpour.
• A denim jacket – this perfect in the winter season for cool mornings and evenings.
• 2-3 pairs of long trousers – Cargo pants, leggings, linen wide leg trousers.
• 3 x T shirts – short-sleeved or ¾ length sleeves t-shirts.
• 3 x long sleeve cotton or linen shirts – great for temples/ cooler nights.
• 2 long skirts – these can be mix and matched with T-shirts and shirts.
• 2-3 x casual dresses – to wear in the evenings or when having dinner at restaurants. 
• 1 jumpsuit – wear during city guide or solo exploration.
• Underwear (bras/knickers/boxers) for number of days travelling. To lighten the load, you can always wash smalls by hand.
• Socks – as per type of shoes you intend to be wearing and for the number of days of travel. These can always be washed by hand.
• 1 x belt
• Sports Bras – for comfort on bumpy jeep rides!
• 1 swimsuit or a Tankini – Bikinis are not openly worn in Kerala, it is pretty conservative so you can opt for shorts and a T-shirt in the waterfalls and sea and keep bathing suits for hotel pools.

Rain mac recommendation: This UNIQUEBELLA Raincoat for Women is not only waterproof and breathable but also serves as a Windbreaker, making it perfect for slightly windy chilly mornings and evenings in the mountains.

Footwear To Pack For Kerala

• 1 pair of trainers/tennis shoes – These are great for travel but also walking over rocks in Munnar for the jeep safari or hikes (less strenuous).
• Hiking Boots – if you’re itinerary is more adventure focussed and you’ll be going on strenuous terrain, then boots are best, especially if travelling in the wet season.
• 1 pair of Birkenstocks/slides, comfortable to wear on city walks, around the resorts, good for temples as they slip off easily.
• 1 pair of flip flops for shower, around the pool and beach.
• Sandals – if you like to dress for dinner, some flat sandals are great, although Kerala is pretty casual and there’s no need unless you’re staying at a particularly fancy hotel in Kochi.

Other Accessories to Pack for Kerala

A wide-brim sun hat is essential as the sun is very intense at certain times of the day. The wide brim protects the neck and shoulders from the heat. A crushable hat is a great idea so you can pack it into your luggage or bag easily and one with a strap will come in handy for windy jeep rides or walking tea plantations in Munnar.

Sun hat

These are essential, this This Lanzom packable raffia hat has a wide brim to keep the sun out of your eyes. It’s easy to carry in your luggage as it can be folded easily.

Scarf/Shawl

A scarf is always brilliant for multi-use. It can be used for travel as a blanket but also good to throw over your shoulders when you’re cold during the evenings.

Scarf Recommendation: This neutral light weight scarf can also team up as a wrap around shawl.

Sunglases

A good pair of UVA/B sunglasses will come in very handy as the sun can be very bright in Kerala, especially during the middle of the day

Across Body Purse

A small across body bag to store your necessities is a good call for eating out in places like Fort Kochi.

What You Need to Pack for Kerala: Toiletries & Medications

Many hotels have a laundry service so if you do require anything washing, or even ironing then it’s possible for a small fee. The majority of accommodation options also stock shampoo, conditioner, body wash as well as soap 

Be-lavie Tip: It was not necessary to take Malaria tablets to travel to Kerala as Malaria is common in the more northern regions of India.

• Sunscreen, High SPF 30-50.
• Skincare kit (cleanser, toner, face cream, eye cream, face SPF 30 plus). La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE SPF50+ Sun Cream is perfect for facial use.
• Body lotion.
• Shampoo & conditioner (optional).
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss/interdental brushes.
• Feminine hygiene products.
• Deodorant.
• Hairbrush/headband/ hair ties.
• Personal medications.
• hand sanitiser
• Malaria tablets (we didn’t require these but incase you’re travelling to Kerala as part of a larger India itinerary.
• First Aid Kit (plasters, bandages, antiseptic cream, safety pins, scissors, painkillers/anti-inflammatory tablets such as paracetamol and ibuprofen).
• Insect repellent (preferably with 10-20% deet).
• Make-up (no need to put on a full face everyday but concealer, eyeliner, mascara is a good  call).
• Hair bands to tie hair back in the heat and humidity.
• Lip balm or chap stick.
• Clothes washing soap or powder – a small amount is ideal.
• Tide Pen – a quick fix for lighter clothes that stain easily. 

Stain remover recommendation: this Tide to go instant stain remover pen is great for travel and eliminates marks from clothing quickly and effectively.

Other Things to Pack for Kerala

• Passport.
• Credit Cards (let your bank know you’ll be heading out + any extra fees).
• Check with your mobile network provider of any charges you may incur for using your phone abroad.
• Driving Licence – especially if you’re hiring a car.
• Safety pins.
• Sewing kit.
• Laundry detergent or clothes washing soap.
• Refillable water bottle – it’s really important to stay hydrated in the hot and humid Kerala climate.

Reusable water bottle recommendation: This Doulton Taste2 Steel Water Bottle is a good investment for travel. It comes with a filter, helping to reduce contaminants. It’s double walled and insulated, perfect for children and adults.

Colour Palettes When You Pack for Kerala

If you’re thinking about colours of your outfits, then you’ll be glad to know there is no rules when it comes to colours in Kerala. Many locals pair bright colours with muted tones. If you adhere to a strict capsule wardrobe and if like us you like to travel minimalistically, then go for mainly neutrals and take a couple of statement bright colour pieces that can also be mixed and matched with the more toned down hues.

Outfit Inspiration for Kerala Destinations

The following graphics are a guide for packing for commonly visited destinations throughout Kerala.

City locations – Kochi, Trivandrum

Hill Stations, Treks, Tea Plantations – Munnar, Thekkady

Kerala Backwaters – Alleppey

Beach & Resorts – Marari Beach

What You Do Not Need to Pack for Kerala

Certain things you just don’t need to pack for your time in Kerala so save on space and use it to support the local economy and purchase artisan made gifts instead.

• Thick Cagoules, Raincoats and Heavy Jumpers: Even in the winter, it doesn’t get as cold as needing to pack the above. A light raincoat will suffice. It still feels hot even if you are stuck in a down pour of rain. Raincoats that have a durable water repellent coating could come in handy so the water just rolls off.
• Jewellery: You really don’t need to take things like jewellery with you. Kerala is a pretty safe state but you don’t want to accidentally lose something that is of value. It’s best to leave things of value at home. Jewellery such as wedding rings and a light necklace and studs are absolutely all you need at the most.
• Fancy Shoes: You really do not need high heels or jewelled footwear. Road and terrain is pretty uneven in Kerala, so unless you are heading to a wedding, bringing high heels really isn’t advisable. 
• Fancy Clothing: There is absolutely no need for this at all. Kerala is a pretty casual state and wearing a casual dress with sandals for dinner is ok as is a t-shirt and trousers for men, 

What You Need to Pack for Kerala FAQs

What are the 10 most essential things to pack for Kerala?

1. Modest lightweight breathable attire.
2. Foldup raincoat/ umbrella base don season of travel.
3. Mosquito repellant.
4. Sunscreen (preferably SPF 30-50).
5. Comfortable footwear.
6. Travel documents.
7. Some local currency. 
8. Re-useable water bottle.
9. Personal medications. 
10. Type D or Type C electrical plugs (Type D more widely used).

Should I take a Waterproof coat to Kerala?

This is most definitely essential if travelling during the monsoon or rainy season. A fold up one is great as then you can pack it away in your backpack or day bag until required.

Would it be Best to take an Umbrella or Rain Mac to Kerala?

We’d say in the monsoon and rainy season, you will definitely need a rain coat but in the summer and other times an umbrella is sufficient. 

How Bad are the Mosquitoes in Kerala?

In more jungle areas and near water such as in the backwater regions, there are many. But hotels in Kerala do take precautions as do the accommodation in houseboats and guesthouses. Use the mosquito net provided and use repellent continuously.

Is it Possible to go Hand Luggage Only in Kerala?

Absolutely yes. You just need to plan carefully. We’d recommend taking a small roller bag, check with your airline what will fit into the overhead compartment and a backpack. Layers of lightweight clothing, decant your toiletries and wear your thicker layers. It is possible for a 14 night itinerary. 

What You Need to Pack for Kerala Round-Up

This article highlights the importance of packing correctly as well as giving suggestions on what to pack for Kerala based on cultural appropriation as well as destination specific clothing. It’s evident that the climate is quite an important factor in deciding what to wear but the hard and fast rule to remember is, light, breathable cotton or linens, a rain mac (monsoon /rainy season) or an umbrella, and nothing shorter than knee length when out and about. Keep bikinis and skimpy wear or swimming costumes for your private pools or resorts. Abiding these basic points show your respect for the state, its people and their values. This comprehensive guide has been produced to act as an aide memoir and key resource when planning and packing what to wear in Kerala. 

Related Articles:

• How To Plan The Best 10 day Kerala Itinerary
• Beautiful Eco-friendly Hotels in Kerala & Their Sustainability Practices
• What Makes Kerala One of India’s Most Eco-Friendly States
• How to spend 48 Hours in Fort Kochi
• A 3 Day Guide to Things To Do In Munnar
• The Best Things to do in Thekkady: A Travel Guide
• Cruise the Kerala Backwaters on a Houseboat + sustainability tips
• A guide to the best things to do on beautiful Marari Beach 
• A guide to the best things to do on beautiful Marari Beach  
• How to book the best authentic tours and activities in Kerala

Travel Planning Resources

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