Fly From The Right Indian City
Your departure city in India has a huge impact on flight prices. While direct flights are becoming more common, the most competitive fares are often found from major metropolitan hubs. Cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru have the most frequent
and often the cheapest direct and connecting flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Airlines like VietJet Air, Vietnam Airlines, and IndiGo operate extensively from these airports. If you live in another city, it can sometimes be cheaper to book a separate domestic flight to one of these major hubs and then fly internationally.
Master the Art of Advance Booking
Spontaneity is great, but not for your wallet. Booking your flight tickets two to three months in advance is often the sweet spot for securing the best prices. This gives you access to lower fare buckets before they sell out as the departure date nears. Data suggests booking around eight weeks before your trip could save you a significant amount compared to last-minute purchases. For travel during peak holiday seasons like Diwali or Vietnam's Tet (New Year), you should plan even further ahead, around four to six months in advance.
Embrace the Shoulder Season
If your travel dates are flexible, avoid Vietnam's peak tourist season, which typically runs from November to March. During this time, demand is high, and so are the prices for flights and hotels. Instead, aim for the shoulder seasons (April to May and October to November) or even the low season (May to September). While the low season might bring some rain, it also brings the lowest airfares, making it a fantastic time for budget-conscious travellers. February is often cited as one of the cheapest months to fly.
Consider Connecting Flights
Direct flights offer convenience, but they almost always come at a premium. If you are willing to add a few hours to your journey, a connecting flight can lead to substantial savings. Popular and often cost-effective layover hubs for Indian travellers heading to Vietnam include Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. Budget carriers like AirAsia and Scoot operate many of these routes, providing stiff competition that helps keep prices down. This strategy allows you to combine the services of different airlines to find the most economical route.
Be Smart with Budget Airlines
No-frills airlines are a budget traveller's best friend. VietJet Air has been a game-changer, offering an extensive network of direct flights from several Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, to Vietnam's main hubs. IndiGo has also stepped up its services to Vietnam. While these airlines offer low base fares, remember to factor in the extra costs for check-in baggage, seat selection, and meals, which are not typically included. Even with these add-ons, they often work out to be the cheapest option.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Don't book on the first website you visit. Use flight comparison engines like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and KAYAK to compare prices from hundreds of airlines and travel agents in one go. One of the most powerful features on these sites is the price alert. You can set an alert for your desired route and travel dates, and you'll receive an email or notification when the fare drops, allowing you to book at the optimal moment. Also, try searching for flights in the morning, as some data suggests fares can be lower than during peak evening hours.
Don't Overlook Package Deals
While booking everything yourself can offer flexibility, it's worth checking out all-inclusive holiday packages from reputable tour operators. These companies often book flights and hotel rooms in bulk, which gives them access to wholesale rates that an individual traveller can't get. Sometimes, a package that includes flights, accommodation, and even some tours can work out to be cheaper than booking your flights separately, especially for a standard 7-day trip.
