Dhanteras, Diwali Tours: Traveling this festive season? Here’s how to find cheaper train and plane tickets | Wizard | Today’s news
Planning a trip this holiday season can be expensive this year, thanks to strong demand and higher airline operating costs. According to a report by The Economic Times, the average one-way fare for travel between September 1 and November 10 rose 68% year-on-year on the Delhi-Hyderabad route, while the Mumbai-Kolkata fare rose 51%. Fares on Delhi-Goa and Mumbai-Bengaluru routes increased by 39% and 37% respectively.
How to find cheaper flights for the holidays this year
The rise comes as airlines grapple with higher costs for aero turbine fuel (ATF) and fewer flight options on some routes. With air fares on the rise, one could consider taking a train to their hometowns or vacationing during Diwali or Dhanteras. But it is likely that the train tickets are sold out.
Therefore, booking at the right time can be beneficial for travelers. Wondering how to find cheaper plane tickets or train tickets this holiday season? Cleartrip recommends planning ahead, tracking airfares and using flexibility in travel dates to find cheaper airfares.
Book your flights in time
According to Cleartrip, it’s generally a good idea to book flights two to three months in advance.
Early booking can help travelers secure lower prices before demand increases closer to the departure date. It can also offer a wider choice of flights and seats, especially on popular routes during festivals.
The company also offers the possibility of changing the date of a domestic flight for its Elite loyalty members on ₹9. Provides visa refusal cover with full refund in the event of visa refusal at no additional cost to international travelers subject to terms and conditions.
Passengers should check the eligibility criteria and terms of such offers before booking.
Check price trends before booking
Instead of booking immediately after finding a fare, passengers are encouraged to compare prices on different dates and evaluate the fare.
The company offers a price trending feature that uses price data from the previous 30 days to indicate whether fares are lower than usual, typical or higher than average, helping passengers decide whether to book immediately or explore other dates.
However, historical fare trends are no guarantee of further price declines. During peak times, fares may increase as seats will not be available. On the other hand, last-minute seat prices can also be low.
Be flexible with travel dates and timings
Travelers who can adjust their departure date by a day or two may have a better chance of finding lower prices.
According to Cleartrip, early morning and mid-week flights are usually cheaper than flights at more popular travel dates and times.
Baggage check-in and other fees
Airlines offer different categories of fares, including lower-cost options that may exclude checked bags or impose limits on baggage allowances.
Passengers carrying only cabin baggage could consider such fares to reduce the cost of an upfront ticket.
However, passengers should check what is included in the fare before making any purchases. A cheap ticket is not necessarily the cheapest option after baggage, seat selection and other fees are added.
Search for offers and points
Travelers can also compare bank card offers, loyalty points and flight and hotel deals before booking.
Depending on the offers, a combination of suitable bank credit card offers, loyalty coins and flight plus hotel packages can significantly reduce airfares.
Frequent domestic fliers can benefit from airline loyalty programs.
Passengers should compare the final amount payable across booking options and check the minimum transaction value, eligible cards and other discount conditions.
How to save on train tickets
Traveling by train can be a more affordable alternative to flying during the holidays. However, popular trains often experience high demand around festivals and confirmed seats can be difficult to find.
Indian Railways currently allows booking of most trains up to 60 days in advance, excluding the date of travel. With effect from November 1, 2024, the pre-sale period was reduced from 120 days to 60 days.
Travelers planning festive trips can check the booking opening date and book as soon as the booking window opens.
Check alternative nearby stations
If the preferred train is already fully booked, passengers can check availability on other trains running on the same route.
Travelers may also consider nearby rail stations, provided the additional travel time and cost are reasonable.
For example, travelers trying to find train tickets from Delhi to Howrah can try searching for Delhi to Sealdah options.
The railway also runs special trains during peak hours to meet additional demand if necessary. Passengers can check official railway announcements and booking platforms for special service updates.
discounts
Payments through wallet apps, UPI and bank card offers can also reduce the cost of train tickets. However, travelers must remember that confirmed seats matter more than a discount.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information and does not guarantee cheaper air tickets or train tickets. Expert opinions are subject to availability and terms and conditions. Check all the details before making any financial decision.
