How to pack for a trip to south India

Earlier this year I travelled to India to visit a close friend and spent two weeks exploring Mumbai, Kerala and the Andaman islands. In hindsight, I should have brought a larger suitcase – the local crafts, spices, Ayurvedic supplements and antiques were all so alluring that my hand-luggage-only approach was challenging on the return journey. However, I did manage to pack a pre-planned beach-meets-sporty-meets-(extremely hot)-city capsule – which made it easier to squeeze in all the souvenirs I gathered along the way. 

Eres swimsuit

When it comes to swimsuits, I almost always choose a two-piece. However I knew that I was going to need something a bit more functional to tackle the watersports of the Andamans. This one-piece from Eres in the brand’s signature peau douce is figure-sculpting and dries in seconds, plus it can handle a kayak or paddle adventure just as well as a day of sunning on the beach. £375, eresparis.com

Vaara yoga mat

Yes, I did carry my mat all the way to the land of yoga, and yes, I do think that’s slightly ridiculous. However I like to practise on one that’s well-cushioned: this one from Vaara is incredibly soft and lightweight with antibacterial properties, which for a germ freak like me is an added bonus. £110, vaara.com

Ulla Johnson basket tote

There’s nothing like a basket bag that can fit anything and everything. I love to get one every time I’m at a new market, but too many of them catch on and damage fabric. Ulla Johnson’s version of the wicker bag is impeccably crafted, with no loose ends. Hand-woven in Colombia from Iraca palm, it fastens with a knot and loop closure, so you can leave swimsuit, sarong and travel essentials inside with no worries. £323, ullajohnson.com

Mother of Pearl Jules crochet dress

Made entirely from organic cotton, oyster shells and recycled plastic bottle fibres, this long, easy summer dress by Mother of Pearl was my everyday go-to. Whether walking through the cobbled streets of Kochi, or heading to the beach, this day-to-evening option covered all grounds. £350, motherofpearl.co.uk

Not Another Bill leather wallet

If you are anything like me, you more often than not spend five minutes going through the contents of your bag before finding your cards, cash, keys or passport, much to everyone else’s annoyance. This MagSafe iPhone wallet was an invaluable companion, especially on the crowded streets of Mumbai where there is no time to waste. Bonus points for the monogrammed option. £22, notanotherbill.com

Ecoalf body and hand powder soap kit

We spent a lot of time on planes and ferries so one trusty product I carried with me at all times was this body and hand powder soap. Made from rice starch with additional upcycled ingredients, it doesn’t count as a liquid when you go through security, is super-light and smells like a summer’s day. Plus, it’s plastic-free, waterless and comes in a fully recyclable aluminium tube. Ecoalf promises that a 100g pouch will last you for two months, and I’m still going through mine. £44.90, ecoalf.com