Flying overseas always feels like a dream come true, but even with experience, Indian travelers often find themselves repeating the same airport mistakes. Despite witnessing such situations, many travelers tend to overlook crucial details, leading to unnecessary stress and hassle. From visa issues to baggage troubles, these mistakes can make a trip go from perfect to upsetting. Being aware of these common mistakes can save travelers a lot of trouble. So, here are some airport mistakes that Indian travelers still make overseas.
Airport Mistakes Indian Travelers Still Make
1. Failing to Check Flight Status
Many travelers do not check their flight status before leaving for the airport. Flights can be delayed or cancelled because of weather conditions or technical issues. Checking the airline app or the airline website for real-time updates can actually save time and help travelers avoid unnecessary trips to the airport.
2. Overpacking
Overpacking increases the chances of your bag being pulled back for another security check. This will lead to delays and extra hassle. It can also lead to overweight baggage fees and other related difficulties during airport security checks. Traveling light, packing efficiently, and following the baggage rules help avoid these issues and smooth the airport experience.
3. Ignoring Airport Layouts
Ignoring airport layouts can cause confusion and delays. This happens especially in large or multi-terminal airports. Familiarizing oneself in advance with the airport map, terminals, gates, and facilities can help one save time and reduce unnecessary stress. Using digital tools like airport apps, interactive kiosks, and real-time navigation apps further simplifies finding check-in counters, security checkpoints, lounges, and boarding gates easily.
4. Skipping Travel Insurance
Some travelers consider insurance unnecessary. Obtaining proper travel insurance is crucial for international trips. Skipping travel insurance can leave travelers vulnerable to financial losses and stressful situations, considering the high cost and unpredictability of international travel risks. Hence, it is strongly advised to purchase the right travel insurance before traveling overseas.
5. Not Carrying Proper Documentation
Missing or invalid passports, visas, or vaccination certificates can lead to denied boarding or entry. Indian travelers must carry a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond their travel dates. They must also ensure enough blank pages for visas and immigration stamps. Obtaining the correct visa or e-visa specific to the destination is very important to avoid being denied boarding or entry.
6. Not Preparing for Security Checks
Not preparing for security checks leads to delays and stress at the airport. Travelers should have their boarding pass and ID ready in hand. They must remove laptops, liquids, belts, shoes, and metal objects for separate screening, and avoid carrying prohibited items like sharp objects. Being organized and following the security guidelines helps speed up the process and reduces stress during security screening.
7. Underestimating Security Wait Times
Underestimating security wait times can cause missed flights and unnecessary stress. Wait times vary by peak hours, airport, and staffing, and can be longer during busy travel seasons or festive seasons. Travelers should arrive at least two to three hours before international flights and check real-time security wait times via airport apps or websites to plan accordingly.
Summing Up
By being aware of the airport mistakes Indian travelers still make, they can ensure a smooth journey for themselves. Checking real-time updates online, checking luggage weight instructions and following them, carrying the right documents, and arriving a bit earlier than the time can actually help Indian travellers travel hassle-free, especially overseas.
