Checklist for Parents Visiting USA (Full List)

This article was last updated and fact checked on April 28, 2025 by Mani Karthik.

When my parents first visited me in the US, I was amazed at how they managed to bring both too much and too little at the same time!

They packed four types of formal clothes they never wore but forgot essentials like comfortable walking shoes and adapter plugs.

That experience taught our family valuable lessons about what Indian parents truly need when visiting America.

Whether your parents are coming to see you as a student, professional, or settled immigrant, proper packing makes a huge difference in their comfort and enjoyment.

After helping dozens of Indian parents (including my own multiple times) prepare for US visits, I’ve created this comprehensive packing guide specifically tailored to the needs and concerns of older Indian travelers.

Quick Overview: Packing for Indian Parents’ US Visit

Indian parents visiting the USA should pack light, focusing on comfortable clothing appropriate for the season, essential medications with prescriptions, adapter plugs for electronics, and a few comfort items from home.

Most toiletries and everyday items can be purchased in the US at reasonable prices. Prioritize comfort over fashion, and be mindful of baggage allowances to avoid extra fees.

💡 Pro Tip: Add your parents as authorized users on your US credit card before their arrival. This gives them purchasing power without carrying excessive cash, and you can monitor their spending while they enjoy independence during their stay.

Essential Documents Checklist

Clothing Essentials by Season

For Summer Visits (May-August)

For Father:

• 5-6 light cotton/linen shirts (short-sleeved)
• 3-4 pairs of cotton trousers/pants
• 1 light jacket or sweater (for air conditioning)
• 1 pair of formal trousers and shirt (for special occasions)
• 7-8 sets of undergarments
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
• 1 pair of sandals/floaters
• 1 light raincoat or umbrella

For Mother:

• 4-5 cotton sarees or salwar kameez
• 2-3 casual western outfits (if comfortable wearing them)
• 1-2 cardigans or light shawls (for air conditioning)
• 1 nicer outfit for special occasions
• 7-8 sets of undergarments
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
• 1 pair of sandals
• Light scarf for sun protection

For Winter Visits (November-February)

For Father:

• 3-4 thermal innerwear sets
• 4-5 full-sleeve shirts
• 3-4 sweaters of varying thickness
• 1 heavy winter jacket (down-filled preferred)
• 2-3 pairs of warm trousers
• 1 muffler/scarf, gloves, and warm cap
• Thick socks (5-6 pairs)
• Waterproof walking boots

For Mother:

• 3-4 thermal innerwear sets
• 4-5 salwar kameez with warm fabric
• 2-3 woolen sweaters
• 1 heavy winter coat (down-filled preferred)
• 2-3 warm shawls
• 1 set of muffler, gloves, and warm cap
• Thick socks (5-6 pairs)
• Waterproof walking boots

Important Clothing Notes:

• Focus on layers rather than single heavy garments
• Prioritize comfort over style for daily wear
• Check specific weather for your destination (US has varied climates)
• Remember walking shoes must be broken in before travel

Medication and Health Items

This is perhaps the most important category for parents’ comfort:

Must-Pack Medications:

• Regular prescription medicines (3-month supply)
• Blood pressure medications with a backup supply
• Diabetes medications if applicable
• Pain relievers (familiar Indian brands like Crocin)
• Digestive medications (Digene, Pudin Hara)
• Cold and cough remedies (familiar Indian brands)
• Joint pain relief ointments (Moov, Volini)
• Basic first aid supplies

Health Accessories:

• Reading glasses and spare pair
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Medical devices like BP monitor if used regularly
• Walking stick/support if needed
• Pill organizers labeled by day/time
• Medical alert bracelet if relevant

Electronics and Gadgets

Comfort Items from India

These small items make a big difference in parents’ comfort:

• Favorite tea/coffee from India (specific brands hard to find in US)
• Familiar snacks for initial days (thepla, khakhra, mixture)
• Pickles or condiments they enjoy daily
• Religious items for prayer/worship
• Familiar pillow cover from home (optional)
• Indian pressure cooker (if staying 3+ months)
• Favorite masalas/spices in small quantities

Toiletries and Personal Care

Pack minimal toiletries as most can be purchased in the US:

Essentials for Initial Days:

• Travel-sized toothpaste, soap, shampoo
• Personal hygiene products
• Face cream/moisturizer (especially for winter)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Familiar hair oil
• Comb/hairbrush

Leave Behind (Buy in US):

• Full-size toiletries
• Detergent/cleaning supplies
• Bulky items like towels

What NOT to Pack

Save space and avoid potential customs issues by leaving these behind:

1. Excessive Indian snacks/food (most Indian groceries available in US cities)
2. Religious offerings like coconuts, kumkum, etc. (customs restrictions)
3. Homemade food (may be confiscated at customs)
4. Seeds, plants, or agricultural products
5. Excessive cash (use cards and banking apps instead)
6. Too many formal outfits rarely used during visits
7. Heavy books (use e-readers instead)
8. Furniture items or home decor (unnecessary weight)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overpacking formal wear – Most US visits involve casual activities
2. Insufficient warm clothing for winter – US winters are often colder than expected
3. Too many pairs of footwear – 2-3 pairs maximum is sufficient
4. Bringing heavy suitcases they can’t manage themselves
5. Packing perishable food items that may be confiscated

I remember how my father brought five formal shirts and traditional Indian kurtas for a three-month stay but ended up wearing the same two comfortable T-shirts I bought him from Target! Practicality trumps formality for parents visiting the US.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the baggage allowance for flights from India to USA?

Most airlines allow 2 checked bags of 23kg each (economy) and 1 carry-on (7-8kg) plus a personal item. Premium cabins get more allowance. Check your specific airline’s policy before packing.

Should my parents bring their own medicines or buy in the US?

Always bring personal prescription medications from India with proper documentation. US prescriptions require US doctor visits and can be very expensive without insurance. Over-the-counter medications for common ailments are also good to bring from India if they have preferred brands.

How much cash should my parents carry?

Minimal cash is needed – $200-300 for immediate expenses is sufficient. Add them as authorized users on your US credit card or get them a prepaid travel card for larger purchases. Most places in the US accept cards.

Do they need special clothes for US weather?

Yes, particularly for winter visits to northern states where temperatures can drop below freezing. Many Indians underestimate how cold US winters can be, especially with wind chill factors.

What’s the best way to handle parents’ phone connectivity in the US?

Either purchase a US SIM card upon arrival (T-Mobile, AT&T, and Ultra Mobile offer good tourist plans) or activate international roaming on their Indian SIM (expensive but convenient for short trips).

Packing Tips by Visit Length

For Short Visits (2-4 Weeks)

• 1 suitcase per person
• Focus on versatile clothing items
• Minimal specialty items from India
• Fewer medication quantities

For Medium Visits (1-3 Months)

• 1-2 suitcases per person
• Seasonal clothing with layering options
• Some comfort foods from home
• Full 3-month medication supply

For Long Visits (3+ Months)

• Consider shipping a box separately
• Include seasonal transition clothing
• More comfort items from home
• Arrange for medication refills if needed

💡 Pro Tip: For parents staying through season changes, have them pack a “capsule wardrobe” – a limited set of versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched and supplemented with local purchases as needed.

Final Packing Day Checklist

One week before travel:

• Verify all documentation is complete and accessible
• Check baggage weight with home scale
• Organize medications into daily dosage containers
• Confirm all electronics are working properly
• Download useful apps on their phones (WhatsApp, Google Maps, translation apps)

Day before travel:

• Pack essentials in carry-on (medications, one change of clothes, toiletries)
• Charge all electronic devices fully
• Print boarding passes if possible
• Verify transportation to airport
• Double-check weather at destination for last-minute adjustments

Summary

• Focus on comfort and practicality over traditional or formal clothing
• Pack all necessary medications with proper documentation
• Bring minimal electronics with appropriate adapters
• Include a few comfort items from India, but don’t overdo it
• Remember that most forgotten items can be purchased in the US
• Pack for the specific season and region of the US being visited
• Leave room in luggage for gifts and purchases to take back

Proper packing makes a tremendous difference in your parents’ US visit experience. With these guidelines, they’ll arrive prepared for their American adventure without the burden of excessive or inappropriate items.

This allows them to focus on what matters most – spending quality time with you and creating wonderful memories together!

Further Reading

• Essential Medicines You Can Carry from India to USA
• US Customs Rules: What Indians Can and Cannot Bring
• Winter Survival Guide for Indians in America