Backpacking essentials list

[Pineaurouge]

I'm going backpacking in india for 4 weeks soon (for the first time) and wondered if anyone has advice on what essentials to take. I want to travel as light as possible! Also id appreciate advice on footwear.

So far i have.....
Hand sanitiser
Toiletries
first aid kit
bug repellent
small towel
hand wash for laundry
small backpack
money belt
packing cubes

I wouldn't bother taking laundry stuff, you can get clothes washed and dried in a few hours for very little cost almost everywhere. Hotels/hostels pretty much all offer laundry service or can point you to somewhere down the street that'll do it.

I'd take a kikoy - could be used as a towel, sarong, wrap... They dry really quickly, pack down well & are light.

Dri-fit (that gym clothes are made of) underwear, sports bras and vests are good for drying quickly when you’re sweating and after washing. Plus can be re-worn more often than cotton.

Also buscopan for your first aid kit.

Another vote for door wedge for extra security.

Immodium by the tonne.
Wash your hands after you touch any money. I spent 2 weeks on the bog there, surviving on dry toast and flat coke.