Most U.S. over-the-counter medicines or comparable are available in India at a fraction of U.S. prices. However, you may prefer to bring medication and/or supplements you take regularly. If in doubt, check with your doctor before you travel.

Travelers taking medications regularly should bring enough for their entire stay plus a little extra in case of delayed departure. Bring a supply of your favorite over-the counter medicines, Tylenol (acetaminophen), Ibuprofen, Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, etc. Carry several days’ supply (2-3 days) of ORS (oral rehydration salts) in case of diarrheal illness. Adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement is essential. Fulbrighters are recommended to carry few N-95 masks and Rapid Antigen Test kits (Panbio, etc.) for immediate need. 

A variety of contact lenses and cleaning solutions are available in metro areas. You may want to bring enough to keep you going. Dust particles can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable.  You may decide to wear eyeglasses. A prescription for eyeglasses can be easily filled and there is a wide variety of designer frames.

Most shops in India carry local makes of popular international cosmetic brands.  If you are allergic to certain soaps or cosmetics, bring with you the products you prefer to use.  You can bring your favorite sunscreen lotion, but this too is available at pharmacies (chemist shop, in India). Spray/stick deodorants are widely available.

You will find a wide range of international cosmetic brands in most Indian metropolitan cities in standalone stores, multi-brand outlets, department stores, online retailers, and beauty specialty stores.

Bring books you know you will need for your work.  American and other international professional publications may be difficult to find. Check the American Spaces in India at the Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi American libraries to find out if they subscribe to the publications you need.  You may choose to subscribe to the online editions of your favourite publications for the duration of your time away from home. Books are also readily available at various online portals such as Amazon and Flipkart.

Check with airlines about restrictions on transport of toothbrushes, which recharge on 220 volt, are available in all metropolitan areas. Also, a small flashlight may be of use in case of a power cut. 

You should consider bringing with you a laptop, any specialized software you may need, backup hardware and an extended-life battery. If you plan on bringing electrical appliances of any kind, do remember that India’s power supply is 220 volts. Because the voltage is unstable, many grantees purchase voltage transformers and stabilizers, which are available locally and quite cheaply. It can also be very useful to have an external battery pack to charge your phone on the go.

iPhone users must remember to get their cell phones unlocked before they come to India or else they will not be able to use the Indian sim on their phones.

Artists are advised to bring quality art supplies they commonly use, as these, if available, will be very expensive. Photographers who need special equipment should find out what is available before leaving the U.S.

Copies of important documents (passport, immunization records, medical prescriptions, eyeglass prescription), comfortable sturdy and washable sandals, zipper or slider storage bags (Ziploc bags), Kindle, iPod.