Ten Things to Think About Before Booking a Flight
Booking a flight can feel confusing, especially with so many factors to consider flight timings, layovers, baggage rules, and travel documents. But when you break it down step by step, planning becomes much easier. Here are the top 10 things you should think about before booking a flight, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally.Many travellers planning Kerala tour experiences also start by checking these essential flight factors.
1. Dates of Travel and Flight Time
Before confirming your ticket, double-check that the flight dates and timings fit your travel plan. Midnight departures, early-morning flights, or crossing multiple time zones can sometimes cause confusion. Make sure the timing works with your schedule to avoid stress on the travel day.
If you’re flying into Kerala, many travellers land at Kochi International Airport before starting their trip. For more insights on what to do in the city, check out our guide:
Best Places to Visit in Kochi in Kerala Travel Packages-helpful read for anyone planning Kerala tour packages.
2. Layover and Overall Transit Time
Transit duration plays a big role in flight comfort. A shorter overall travel time is usually better, especially when connecting multiple flights.
However, be careful with very short layovers. A 40-minute connection may not be enough if there are delays or long queues. Ideally:
- Domestic layover: 1 to 1.5 hours
- International layover: Add extra time for immigration, customs, and baggage recheck
If your flight route continues toward Kerala’s hill stations after landing in Kochi, you may find this helpful:
Kochi to Munnar Route in Kerala Tour Packages-especially useful for travellers customizing Kerala tour packages.
3. Layover Airport & Terminal Layout
If your trip requires a connection, choose a layover airport wisely. Weather conditions, airport size, and terminal layout can affect how smoothly you catch your next flight.
Always check the airport map terminals connected by walkways are easy to navigate, while those requiring shuttles or trains may require more buffer time.Smooth flight planning makes your Kerala tour packages experience hassle-free.
4. Flight Performance & On-Time History
Before selecting a flight, look into the airline’s punctuality. For example, data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation once showed:
- Air India → 90%+ on-time
- Vistara & AirAsia → around 89%
- IndiGo → 87%
- Others → lower punctuality rates
Choosing punctual airlines reduces the risk of missed connections and delays, especially when you are beginning a long trip such as Kerala tour packages.
5. Arrival & Departure Airport Choices
Major cities often have multiple airports. Choose based on:
- Proximity to your hotel, meeting venue, or event
- Public transport options
- Traffic conditions
For Kerala trips, most tourists land either at Kochi, Trivandrum, or Calicut depending on their itinerary. If Kochi is your first stop, don’t miss this helpful guide:
Best Places to Visit in Kochi in Kerala Travel Packages-a common starting point for Kerala tour packages.
6. Economy Type & Fare Category
Not all economy tickets are the same. Options now include:
- Basic Economy
- Regular Economy
- Economy Flex
- Main Cabin
- Saver Options
Cheapest fares often come with restrictions like:
- No seat selection
- No carry-on bag
- No refunds
- Limited flexibility
A slightly higher fare may give you better benefits—worth checking before you book, especially when coordinating your flight as part of Kerala tour packages.
7. Airline Reputation & On-Board Experience
Every airline treats passengers differently. When choosing, consider:
- Seat comfort
- Customer service quality
- Free snacks or meals
- Entertainment availability
- Baggage handling record
- Cleanliness and cabin experience
A long flight with poor service can be exhausting, so select an airline with consistently positive reviews when heading for long journeys.
8. Baggage Allowance & Fees
Each airline has unique baggage rules. Before booking:
- Check carry-on size limits
- Verify cabin bag weight restrictions
- Review check-in baggage allowance
- Calculate extra baggage charges
This helps avoid last-minute surprises at the airport. If you’re flying to Kerala and love exploring food during travel, you’ll enjoy this:
Kerala Street Food Delights– a favorite among those booking Kerala tour packages.
9. Time of Year & Seasonal Considerations
Weather affects flight schedules. Winter and holiday seasons often bring:
- Delays
- Cancellations
- Congested airports
If you must fly during peak winter, choose the first flight of the day these are least likely to be delayed because the aircraft is already stationed at the airport overnight.Proper timing makes your travel smoother before starting your Kerala tour packages itinerary.
10. Passport, Visa & Vaccination Requirements
For international travel, always check:
- Visa requirements
- Passport validity (must usually be valid for 6+ months)
- Necessary vaccinations
- Arrival health forms
- Transit country rules
Confirm all requirements before paying for your ticket to avoid unexpected issues or denied boarding.This is especially important for international visitors heading to India for Kerala tour packages.
Conclusion
Booking a flight becomes much simpler when you understand what to check—timings, layovers, weather, airline performance, and travel documents. With proper planning, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey from takeoff to touchdown, making your trip even if it’s part of Kerala tour packages comfortable and well-organized.