Airlines Made Simple: What Every Traveller Should Know

Planning a flight can feel like a puzzle, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re hopping from Delhi to Goa or catching an international connection, a few smart moves can save you money, time and stress. Below are the basics that most travellers overlook, broken down into bite‑size actions you can use right now.

How to Find the Best Ticket Price

Start by being flexible with dates. A shift of just one day can cut the fare by 20 % or more. Use the “flexible dates” view on most booking sites and compare a week before and after your preferred travel window.

Second, clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode. Some sites raise prices after they sense repeated searches. A quick private window can keep the numbers low.

Finally, check the airline’s own website after you find a deal on a third‑party portal. Direct bookings often include free seat selection or extra baggage allowance that hidden fees on aggregator sites don’t show.

Baggage Hacks You’ll Actually Use

Most Indian airlines allow a 15 kg cabin bag for free, but the size limits differ. Measure your bag at home – if it’s just a couple of centimeters over, a simple reshuffle can keep you within limits and avoid surprise fees.

If you need more weight, consider a lightweight duffel for the extra kilos. Soft bags compress better in the overhead bin and cost less to ship compared to hard‑shell suitcases.

For long trips, pack a small collapsible tote in your carry‑on. You can use it for souvenirs on the way back and still stay under the weight cap.

Seat selection is another area where you can upgrade without breaking the bank. Many airlines charge for window or aisle seats, but if you’re okay with a middle seat, you can often snag it for free during check‑in. If a window is a must, look for “premium economy” deals – they’re sometimes only a fraction more than standard seats and include extra legroom.

Safety isn’t just about the aircraft; it’s also about the airport. Cleanliness and security scores have become easy to find for Indian airports. In 2025, Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata topped the list for cleanliness and efficient security checks. Arriving at these hubs usually means shorter queues and a smoother boarding experience.

When you land, keep an eye on the luggage carousel. Some airlines place bags on the far side to speed up delivery, so a quick walk around the belt can save you a few minutes. If you have a connecting flight, ask the gate staff if you can tag your bag through to the final destination – it reduces the hassle of re‑checking luggage.

Lastly, don’t forget travel insurance. A basic policy covering flight cancellations, baggage loss and medical emergencies costs less than a cup of coffee per day and can be a lifesaver if a flight gets delayed or a bag goes missing.

All these tips add up. A little research, a few smart choices and a dash of flexibility can turn a stressful airline experience into a smooth part of your journey. Keep this guide handy the next time you book a flight, and you’ll see the difference right away.