Should I book a round-trip or two one-way tickets?

Round-trip is almost always cheaper for international flights to India. Stick to a round-trip ticket into a major hub like Delhi or Mumbai.

Is it worth booking a 'Multi-city' flight?

Only if the price difference is less than $150 compared to a standard round-trip. Otherwise, buy a separate budget domestic flight once you land.

How to Book Flights to India Without Overpaying

Use Google Flights to track price trends for at least three weeks before booking. Aim to land at major hubs like Delhi (DEL) or Mumbai (BOM) first, as these consistently offer the cheapest international connections from outside Asia.

Set your departure window. Avoid peak season from mid-December to mid-January and the month of May. Booking 3–4 months in advance is the sweet spot for international flights to India.
Use the 'Track Prices' toggle. Input your dates into Google Flights and turn on 'Track Prices'. You will receive an email alert when the price drops, which is vital given how volatile India routes are.
Choose your entry hub. Compare prices for Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bangalore (BLR). If you are heading to a secondary city, it is almost always cheaper to fly into one of these hubs and book a separate domestic flight on Indigo or Vistara.
Check the baggage policy. Many budget airlines flying to India hide checked bag fees. Ensure your booking includes at least 23kg of luggage; buying it at the airport kiosk is significantly more expensive than adding it during the initial checkout.

Should I book a round-trip or two one-way tickets?: Round-trip is almost always cheaper for international flights to India. Stick to a round-trip ticket into a major hub like Delhi or Mumbai.
Is it worth booking a 'Multi-city' flight?: Only if the price difference is less than $150 compared to a standard round-trip. Otherwise, buy a separate budget domestic flight once you land.