Booking flights to India
Book your flights 3 to 4 months in advance using aggregators to track price fluctuations, and aim to arrive at major hubs like Delhi or Mumbai to secure lower fares. Always verify visa requirements before clicking purchase, as airlines will deny boarding without a valid visa or e-visa confirmation.
- Set up price tracking. Use Google Flights to track your specific route. Set alerts at least 120 days before your intended departure to receive emails when prices drop.
- Check major hubs first. International flights to Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bengaluru (BLR) are almost always cheaper than flying into smaller regional airports. Book a main international ticket to a hub and a separate, cheap domestic flight for the final leg.
- Verify airline baggage rules. Many international carriers flying into India have strict weight limits for checked bags (often 23kg). Avoid 'Basic Economy' fares if you are carrying more than one carry-on, as fees for additional luggage at the airport can exceed $100.
- Finalize your visa documentation. Do not finalize your booking until you know which visa type you need. You will be required to enter your passport number and, in some cases, your e-visa application status during the check-in process.
- Should I book a round-trip or two one-way tickets?
- For travel to India, a round-trip ticket is almost always significantly cheaper and preferred by immigration officials as proof of onward travel.
- Are domestic flights in India reliable?
- Yes, carriers like IndiGo and Air India are efficient, but always book a 4-hour buffer between your international arrival and domestic departure to account for customs and immigration.