Kerala Lookbook | What To Pack For Kerala, India Vacation?

Kerala is one of the most surreal states in India blessed with splendid topography. From sun-kissed and palm-lined beaches of Kovalam to traditional houseboats sailing in the backwaters of Alleppey to its evergreen forests of Thekkady, Kerala is an ultimate paradise for any holiday seeker.

Based on my last trip to Kerala, one of the biggest questions for the first-timers to visit is — What to pack for Kerala? If you’re a style traveler like me who loves dressing up on your trips, my Kerala lookbook will inspire you as what to pack for your ultimate Kerala, India vacation!

As many of you who all have been regular to my blog, know how much I’m fond of online shopping. While stumbling for my Kerala trip, I came across Sitannya — an online store by designer Shoumita Ganguly. I loved her pieces and Shoumita was kind enough to send me some beautiful dresses from her new collection, and what better occasion to try them on than my trip to Kerala?

I hope my Kerala lookbook tips help you pack for your ultimate South India vacation!

1) Pack a few pieces of cotton or linen modest dresses

Most of the places in Kerala have a tropical climate except hill stations like Munar or Wayanad. If you’re visiting any hill stations, a sweatshirt would be just fine. While traveling to coastal or central tropical areas, it would be super hot and ultra humid.  Therefore, a few pieces of cotton or linen dresses would be a great choice to beat the heat and stay comfy. Choose the bold colors flowy dresses for a day outing or fancy dinner at night.

If you’re traveling solo in Kerala, I’d advise you to wear modest clothes in case you don’t want to grab too much attention from the locals. Respect the local culture and don’t be one of those travelers who go around showing half of their boobs and blame people for starring.

The landscape of Kerala has been blessed with unfathomable natural beauty and serenity. That means you’ll witness a lot of greenery. If you’re planning to take some incredible pictures during your Kerala trip, wear bold colors like shades of red, yellow and blue that will pop-up in your pictures. Say definitely no to shades of green that will blend with the surrounding.

While selecting dresses, keep a few pieces in which you can twirl. The twirling dress looks incredible in pictures. As the above dress isn’t available, I’ve added some other pieces for you.

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If you’re thinking of packing light colors, go for pastel shades of pink, white or yellow. They will pop out over the green background. Don’t pack white dresses if you’re visiting Kerala during the monsoon seasons.

2) A Cotton/Linen Pants/Culottes/Palazzos would be a great idea

For saving legs from mosquitoes, nothing can beat the comfort of cotton or linen pants, culottes and palazzos on a tropical vacation. Pack a few colorful bottoms as per your style and mix-match them with comfy tees or blouses and you’re good to go!

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3) Keep a cute mini-dress for hanging around your resort

A cute mini-dress or romper would be great for hanging around your resort. Pair it up with a jute/bamboo bag and create your own signature style.

If you’re planning to stay in a houseboat, try a maxi dress or mini dress as per your style. Wear denim shorts inside the mini dress to stay comfortable.

4) Keep one traditional wear

The traditional wear of Kerala is Mundu. It resembles a white dhoti worn by men or a long skirt worn by women. In some temples in Kerala, it is mandatory for men to be shirtless and wear mundu. The women are allowed to wear modest clothes covering their legs and shoulders. Therefore, pack a piece of long ethnic skirt and blouse in case you’re visiting a temple. The outfit looks great in pictures too.

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5) Pack your beach essentials

Don’t forget to travel to Kerala without your beach essentials. Even if you’re not visiting the coastal areas, do keep your bathing suits, kaftans and flip-flops ready for the pool in your resort!

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Carry sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from scorching heat of Kerala.

6) What shoes to pack?

Any shoes that are comfy to wear! A pair of sneakers, sandals and flip-flops would almost cover all your needs during Kerala vacation.

7) Pack your make-up kit

Carry your make-up kit and wear light or sweat-proof make-up to beat the outside humidity. Dry shampoo would also be a savior for those busy days when you have no time to wash your hair.

8) Keep hand sanitizer and feminine hygiene products

I always keep a hand sanitizer no matter wherever I’m traveling. However, when it comes to feminine hygiene products, tampons are difficult to find in India everywhere. Therefore, pack plenty of them as per your requirement.

9) A mosquito repellant is a must

The splendid beauty of Kerala is also home to mosquitoes that spread diseases like dengue & malaria. So, don’t forget to carry a mosquito repellant spray or cream during your Kerala trip.

10) Carry umbrella

The weather in Kerala is very unpredictable. Even if you aren’t traveling during the monsoon seasons, carrying an umbrella would be a great idea to keep yourself safe from unexpected rain.

Did I forget anything? Please share your tips if you’ve been to Kerala. If not, what do you think about my Kerala packing guide?

Till then, Happy Styling!
Xoxo, Ana

Disclaimer: This post is in collaboration with Sitannya and also includes affiliate links. That means Ana’s World will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you click through and make a purchase. All the opinions are my own and for more information on my disclosure policy, you can click HERE.

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