Why Your Travel Is More Expensive This Year
A perfect storm of factors is driving up travel costs. For airlines, the price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) remains a huge part of their operating expenses, making up nearly 40-50% of costs in India. Following recent geopolitical tensions and successive
price hikes by oil companies, major carriers like IndiGo and Air India have added fuel surcharges, directly passing the expense to passengers. Airlines have also reduced the number of flights on some routes compared to last year. While they may use larger aircraft to maintain overall seat numbers, fewer flight options during peak demand inevitably lead to higher prices. This demand-supply mismatch is made worse by a reduction in market competition after the exit of some airlines, giving remaining carriers more pricing power. For train travel, the story is one of overwhelming demand. The IRCTC system is seeing record-breaking booking numbers, with tickets on major routes to states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar getting sold out within minutes of the reservation window opening. Despite Indian Railways adding hundreds of special festive services, the demand far outstrips the available berths, leaving millions on waiting lists.
A Look at the Soaring Fares
The numbers paint a stark picture. Airfares on popular domestic routes have surged, with some seeing prices jump by over 60% compared to the previous year. One-way tickets on major metro routes that would typically cost around ₹5,000-₹7,000 are now frequently crossing the ₹15,000, ₹18,000, and even ₹20,000 mark for travel around the Diwali weekend. In some cases, it's now cheaper to fly to nearby international destinations like Singapore or Bangkok than it is to fly domestically from one Indian city to another. For example, a one-way ticket from Hyderabad to Chandigarh or Patna for the Diwali period was reported to be touching ₹22,000, significantly higher than the usual fare. This has left many travellers frustrated, as the simple act of going home to celebrate with family now comes with a hefty price tag. The average spending for a domestic holiday is now estimated to be between ₹25,000 and ₹45,000 per person.
Smart Strategies to Find Better Deals
While the high prices are discouraging, you are not entirely without options. The key is to be strategic. Booking travel well in advance—ideally two to three months before the festive dates—remains one of the most reliable ways to save money. However, if that window has passed, flexibility is your next best friend. Try shifting your travel dates by a few days. Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday before the main festival day, and returning later in the following week, can often be substantially cheaper than travelling on peak weekend dates. Consider alternative airports that may be close to your destination but less busy, as they can sometimes offer more budget-friendly fares. For train travellers, using the 'Tatkal' system is a high-risk, high-reward option. For both flights and trains, consistently using fare comparison websites and setting up price alerts can help you grab a deal if one appears. Finally, travelling overnight on a train or bus can save you the cost of one night's accommodation while also being a more economical mode of transport.
Rethinking the Festive Tradition
When the cost and stress of travel become too much, it might be time to consider new traditions. Instead of everyone travelling home, perhaps parents could do a 'reverse' trip and visit their children. If multiple family members live in the same city, hosting a local potluck or gathering can recreate the festive spirit without the travel expense. Another option is to plan a 'festive staycation' by booking a nice hotel or resort in your own city. This can feel like a special treat without the logistical nightmare of travel. For those with a small budget and a desire for a change of scenery, exploring nearby, less-crowded destinations can be a rewarding alternative. Places like Hampi, Binsar, or Pachmarhi are gaining popularity as crowd-free escapes rich in heritage. The essence of festivals is connection, and sometimes, that connection can be found and strengthened right where you are, or by creating new, more sustainable traditions for your family.
