Tips to Plan Your Next Holiday in India - Rediscover Your Home Country

For many NRIs visiting India, holidays with friends and family are often last-minute plans that get finalized while they are in the country. They come to India with a long list—things to do, people to meet, places to explore, etc. Naturally, holiday planning takes a backseat. However, with a little planning, you can make the most of your holiday while ensuring you spend quality time with your loved ones.

Here are some easy tips to help you make your vacation in India a memorable one:

1. Choose your destination wisely

India is a traveler’s paradise—there are numerous holiday destinations to suit every budget, mood, and season. With the varied options available, one can indeed be spoilt for choice! Choose your holiday destination by considering the duration, who you are traveling with, and the time of the year. Read popular travel blogs and download resourceful apps for ideas and advice from travel enthusiasts

If you prefer a peaceful, relaxed holiday, consider a retreat in the hills. Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Kerala have a plethora of picturesque landscapes that will leave you rejuvenated. For a more adventurous trip, consider exploring the wildlife; plan a trip to one of the national parks. If it’s a family holiday, consider visiting a place of religious interest and neighboring cities. Besides, if architectural marvels interest you, you could explore the world heritage sites across the country.

2. Plan in advance

It’s easier to coincide your holiday with your friends and family members by planning ahead of time. Advance bookings also mean more savings in the form of early-bird offers introduced by airlines and online travel sites.

3. Make the most of credit and debit card offers

From earning miles on flights, discounts on travel and accommodation, and exclusive EMI offers—you may be eligible for a range of discounts. On Axis Bank’s website, navigate to the Grab Deals tab to know about the latest deals and offers you can avail. Axis Bank also has tie-ups with several travel partners: you can book flights, hotels, self-drive vehicles and much more. Go ahead, explore, and make the most of these splendid deals and earn reward points on your purchases!

4. Keep a tab on your baggage weight

Baggage allowance is usually a non-issue on international flights, but the allowance limit is considerably low when you switch to a domestic flight. Hence, it is advisable to check all baggage details, including size dimensions, with the airlines or your travel agent.

5. Buy a travel insurance policy

For NRIs and international visitors, travel insurance is a must-have. It can protect you in case of accidents, unexpected cancelations or medical events, and loss or theft of your belongings. Don’t shrug off this step when planning your next holiday! Understand the options available and choose a policy that suits your needs.

6. Organize money matters

Keep yourself updated with the customs regulations on how much foreign currency you can bring in to India. In general, international travelers are required to declare cash if they are carrying USD 10,000 or more (or its equivalent) in coins, currency notes, and traveler’s cheques.

However, note that exchanging foreign currency cash for Indian Rupees can get expensive. It would be better to use your debit card to withdraw cash in local currency from a local ATM. So, if required, remit money to India before you arrive so that you have enough funds in your NRE/NRO savings account.

7. Make copies of important documents

Remember to carry multiple hard copies of essential documents, including your passport, flight tickets, bank documents, credit/debit cards, and identity proofs. You may not always have access to the internet so having these documents handy is important.

8. Safeguard your family’s health

If you are traveling with children, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor if you need to take any special medical precautions, such as additional vaccinations for your kids. It’s advisable to carry your children’s immunization records on an international trip. Pack a travel health kit, and practice safe food and water precautions wherever you go.

On that note, we wish you a happy and safe holiday back home!