Travelling across India is exhilarating. Here are ten indispensable tips drawn from seasoned travellers.
1. Pack Light
A 40-litre backpack is ideal. Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and leave room for souvenirs. Heavy luggage costs extra on domestic flights.
2. Book Trains in Advance
Indian Railways is the backbone of budget travel. Reserve seats 3-4 weeks ahead via IRCTC, especially for popular routes like Mumbai-Goa or Delhi-Jaipur.
3. Stay Hydrated
Always buy ISI-marked sealed water bottles. Carry a UV purifier pen as backup. Dehydration sneaks up quickly in the Indian heat.
4. Download Offline Maps
Google Maps offline mode is a lifesaver in areas with poor connectivity, especially in the hills and remote regions.
5. Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques. Remove shoes before entering religious sites. A simple greeting in the local language goes a long way.
6. Carry Cash
ATMs can be scarce in rural areas. Always have smaller notes handy for auto-rickshaws, street food, and local markets.
7. Get a Local SIM Card
Airtel or Jio prepaid SIMs offer excellent data plans at a fraction of international roaming costs.
8. Use UPI for Payments
Even vegetable vendors now accept UPI. Set up Google Pay or PhonePe to pay seamlessly across the country.
9. Travel During Shoulder Season
October to November and February to March offer pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and lower hotel rates.
10. Buy Travel Insurance
A comprehensive policy covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage is non-negotiable.