It’s essential to know the things to avoid when planning your holiday. For example, do you know enough about the place you want to visit? Should you hire a tour guide while traveling to India? Are there vaccinations you should get before your trip?
Planning a holiday to India is exciting and fun. But it can also be stressful at times. You could find yourself in over your head if you don’t plan. Maybe you’ve already made some of these mistakes in the past, and that’s why you’re reading this article.
So let’s talk about the top nine mistakes and how we can fix them together!
Forgetting to Pack the Right Clothes
Your first mistake will be forgetting to pack the right clothes. India has various weather conditions, which means you need to be prepared for all seasons, from scorching heat to chilling cold.
You should know that India has three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. If you plan to visit India during the summer months (from March to May), pack light clothes like T-shirts, dresses, shorts, and sandals. However, if you’re coming during the monsoon season (June to September), pack waterproof jackets and umbrellas as it rains most days.
If you plan on visiting India during the winter (October to February), pack warm jackets, scarves, and gloves because it can get cold!
Overlooking Visa Requirements
Some countries require visitors to apply for a visa before they travel there; however, this can take weeks and sometimes even months, which means it’s not something you should leave until the last minute.
Before booking your flight tickets or other arrangements, check if you need a visa and apply as soon as possible. That way, you will avoid missing out on your holiday plans due to delays with paperwork!
Expecting an Easy Time With Money
Another mistake is expecting an easy time with money. While foreign currency can be exchanged at airports, most other places don’t accept foreign currency as payment. You’ll need to exchange rupees for everything from food and accommodation to souvenirs.
So if you’re visiting India for the first time and want to save money on exchange rates, it might be best to wait until you get there before changing any money into rupees. That way, you won’t spend more than necessary on hotels and taxis while on vacation.
Neglecting to Research Local Customs and Etiquette
Another common mistake people make when planning their holiday to India is underestimating the importance of researching local customs and etiquette. This is especially true if you’re visiting a region or city with a different language, culture, and cuisine from your hometown.
You should start by learning basic greetings in the local language and also familiarize yourself with local customs, such as appropriate dress codes, tipping etiquette, and food restrictions. This will help you avoid any embarrassing or awkward situations during your trip!
Booking a Tour Guide Without Researching Their Credentials
Booking a tour guide before doing proper research is another mistake many people make. While it’s a good idea to get help from a local tour guide to plan your trip, you should always research beforehand to find the right guide for your needs.
Some important factors include their experience, pricing, customer reviews, and overall reputation. You should also read up on any negative reviews and see how the guide handled them. You should also ensure that your guide is licensed, insured, and knowledgeable about the places you want to visit.
Not Getting Vaccinated Before Traveling to India
One of the biggest mistakes people make when planning their holiday to India is neglecting to vaccinate before traveling. It’s crucial to visit your doctor and get vaccinated against common diseases in India, such as Covid, hepatitis A, typhoid fever, hepatitis B, yellow fever, rabies, and others.
Depending on the type of trip you’re planning (and where you plan on going), there may be other vaccinations that are recommended or required by law. So be sure to check with your doctor and do some research before booking your trip to stay healthy throughout your holiday!
Ignoring the Possible Hazards of Traveling to India
Another common mistake is underestimating the potential hazards of traveling to India. This is a huge mistake, as many tourists have been injured or killed while traveling here.
Some of the biggest hazards you must be aware of include traffic accidents, food poisoning, physical assaults, and robbery. You should also watch for signs of altitude sickness if you’re planning on visiting high-altitude areas like the Himalayas.
Neglecting to Book Travel Insurance
Booking travel insurance is another mistake many people make when planning their holiday to India. While travel insurance may seem unnecessary or even frivolous, the truth is that it can be a lifesaver in an emergency.
Choosing the right type and level of coverage for your needs is essential. So, review your policy carefully and ensure all key needs are covered. And, if you’re renting a car or staying in an Airbnb, get the additional insurance coverage you need for those situations!
Not Staying Safe While Traveling to India
If you want a safe and enjoyable holiday in India, you must stay safe throughout your trip. This means being aware of your surroundings, avoiding sketchy areas, traveling with a companion if possible, and using common sense safety precautions like locking your doors and windows when you’re in your hotel or rental apartment.
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws regarding personal safety and property theft, as these are often very different from what you’re used to at home.
Enjoy the Holidays in India!
If you want to have a safe and enjoyable holiday in India, it’s essential to do your research before travelling. This includes booking a reputable tour guide, vaccinating, researching the potential hazards of traveling there, getting travel insurance, and staying safe while on your trip. Following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and have a safe and memorable holiday in India!