What's The Best Way To Beat Diwali Travel Rush? Here Are 7 Useful Tips

Diwali is one of India's most cherished festivals. While many of us are lucky to be cosied up at home, others are gearing up for a journey back to their loved ones. But let's be real, the festive rush can be overwhelming! Trains are packed to the brim, airports are busier than ever, and highways seem to move at a snail's pace. The good news? You don't have to be caught in the chaos. With a little planning and a few smart hacks, your festive journey can be smooth, fun, and surprisingly stress-free. Below, we'll share some useful tips that'll help you travel during Diwali with ease.

Also Read: Travel Insurance Guide: What It Covers And What It Doesn't For Your Trips

Here Are 7 Tips To Beat The Travel Rush During Diwali:

1. Book Before The Festive Fever Peaks

If you haven't booked your tickets yet, do it now. The closer Diwali gets, the higher the prices and the fuller the trains. Early morning or late-night flights are usually less crowded and often cheaper. For road trips, leave before sunrise or travel midweek to avoid traffic jams that stretch for miles.

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2. Pick The Right Day To Travel

Most people hit the road two to three days before Diwali. You can skip the madness by planning your journey either a few days earlier or right after the festival. Not only will you find more peaceful routes, but your journey will also feel far less rushed.

3. Opt For Alternate Routes

Consider taking lesser-known routes or alternative airports to avoid congestion. For example, if you're flying to Delhi, consider landing in Jaipur or Chandigarh instead. For trains, look into routes with fewer stops or book a ticket on a less popular train.

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4. Use Tatkal Quota Wisely

If you haven't booked your ticket in advance, consider using the Tatkal quota. Many trains have a separate Tatkal quota that fills up later than the general quota. Be prepared to book at short notice and travel standby if needed. Keep your bags packed and documents ready to seize last-minute opportunities.

5. Leverage Technology To Your Advantage

Use travel apps like IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, or Google Maps to stay updated on traffic, train or flight delays. These apps often provide real-time updates and suggest alternative routes or modes of transport. Set up notifications and alerts to stay informed on the go, so you can adjust your plans quickly if needed.

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6. Consider Off-Peak Travel Hours

Avoid traveling during peak hours (usually 10 am to 6 pm) when possible. Opt for early morning or late-night travel to avoid crowds and congestion. If you must travel during the day, consider breaking your journey into smaller segments with short breaks in less crowded areas. This can help you dodge the worst of the traffic.

7. Plan For Contingencies

Keep a backup plan ready in case of unexpected delays or cancellations. Know the refund and cancellation policies of your travel bookings, and have emergency contact numbers handy. Stay calm and flexible - sometimes, a change in plans can lead to unexpected adventures.

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Diwali Travel: Easy Tips To Make Your Journey Smooth

When Is The Best Time To Travel During Diwali?

Consider travelling a few days before or after Diwali to avoid crowds. This can help you skip the chaos and have a more peaceful journey. You'll also find fewer travellers on the roads and trains.

How To Avoid Traffic Jams During Diwali?

Plan your route in advance and check for real-time traffic updates. Use traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to find the best routes, and consider travelling during off-peak hours to minimise delays.

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Can You Book Tatkal Tickets Online?

Yes, you can book Tatkal tickets online through IRCTC or other travel apps like MakeMyTrip or Goibibo. Simply log in, fill in the required details, and book your ticket quickly before quotas fill up.

So, this Diwali, travel smart. Plan early, pack light and keep calm. Because when you finally reach home, the warmth of your family and the first bite of homemade mithai will make it all worth it.