8 ways to save money on Canada to India flights

Travelling from Canada to India can be exciting, but it can also be expensive. Airfare costs can quickly add up and become a significant part of your travel expenses. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these ten ways to save money on your Canada to India flights. From booking your flight at the right time to taking advantage of promotions, read on to discover how you can save money on your next trip.

1. Choose the right time to book your flight

Booking your flight at the right time can save you a significant amount of money. Here are a few factors to consider when booking your flight:

Off-peak seasons for travel

The peak season for travel from Canada to India is generally from December to March. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider travelling during the off-peak seasons. This can help you save money on your flight. Alternatively, you can also use several apps like Hopper, Skyscanner and Justfly to help you find the best travel date for your next trip. 

India is a vast country with a diverse climate, so it’s worth doing some research on the best time to visit your destination. For example, if you’re planning a trip to the beaches of Goa, the best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is dry and sunny. On the other hand, if you’re planning a trip to the Himalayas, the best time to visit is from March to May when the snow begins to melt and the flowers are in bloom.

Best days of the week to book

Many airlines offer discounts on flights during certain days of the week. For example, Mondays are generally the cheapest days to book a flight from Toronto to Delhi, with savings going up to 8% for a Monday takeoff.

Another factor to consider is the time of day you book your flight. Cheapflights states that you can save up to 11% on an afternoon flight from Toronto to Delhi compared to morning and evening flights.

With that in mind, you can look for a flight on a Monday afternoon and expect to enjoy some great savings on your airfare. However, keep in mind that these flights may not be as convenient and could disrupt your travel plans.

How far in advance to book your flight

Booking your flight too far in advance or too close to your travel dates can lead to higher fare prices. That is why Expedia recommends that you save up to 10% by booking your flight 3 months in advance. This gives you enough time to plan your trip while still benefiting from lower fares.

When booking your flight, also consider the duration of your stay. If you’re planning a short trip, booking your flight closer to your travel dates may be more cost-effective. However, if you’re planning a longer trip, booking in advance can save you money in the long run.

We know that booking a flight can be overwhelming with numerous services to choose from. Simplify the process with our flight booking calculator, providing accurate fares, convenient options, and saving you time and hassle.

2. Compare prices on multiple booking platforms

Booking platforms offer varying prices and discounts on flights. It’s important to compare prices on multiple platforms before making your final booking. This not only ensures that you get the best deal, but also helps you save money that you can use for other travel expenses. Here are a few platforms to consider:

Online travel agencies

Online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Travelocity and Hotwire offer various discounts and promotions on flights. These platforms have partnerships with airlines and hotels, which means they can offer exclusive deals to their customers. Make sure to compare prices across different OTAs to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Additionally, some OTAs offer loyalty programs that reward frequent customers with additional discounts and perks.

Airline websites

Many airlines offer discounts and promotions on their own websites. Before booking your flight, make sure to check for any promotions or discounts on the airline’s website. Booking directly with the airline can also give you access to additional perks, such as free checked bags or priority boarding. Additionally, some airlines offer price match guarantees, which means they will match the price of a competitor if you find a cheaper fare elsewhere.

Meta-search engines

Meta-search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak offer a comparison of prices across various booking platforms. In addition to comparing prices, these platforms also offer filters that allow you to search for flights based on specific criteria, such as departure time or number of stops. Some meta-search engines also offer price alerts, which notify you when the price of a flight changes. This can be especially helpful if you’re planning a trip in advance and want to wait for a better deal.

When comparing prices on different platforms, make sure to take into account any additional fees or taxes that may be added to the final price. Some booking platforms may offer a lower base fare, but charge additional fees for things like seat selection or baggage. Additionally, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking, as some fares may be non-refundable or have strict cancellation policies.

3. Taking advantage of last-minute deals

If you’re feeling spontaneous and adventurous, last-minute deals can be a great way to save money on flights. Airlines often offer discounted prices on flights that are departing within the next few days or weeks. By being flexible with your travel dates, you can take advantage of these deals and save money on your trip.

Keep an eye out for last-minute deals by subscribing to airline newsletters and following them on social media. You can also use a money-saving travel app that alerts you of deals and discounts in real-time.

When booking a last-minute deal, it’s important to be flexible with your destination as well. You may not be able to find a deal to your dream destination, but you may discover a new place that you’ll fall in love with.

4. Book a layover or stopover

Booking a layover or stopover can be a smart way to save money on your Canada to India flights. It’s a great opportunity to explore a new city and break up a long journey. Here are a few things to consider:

Benefits of layovers

As mentioned, layovers can be cheaper than direct flights. But that’s not the only benefit. They also provide a chance to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and maybe even explore a new place for a few hours. It can be a refreshing break from being cooped up on a plane for hours on end.

Another benefit of booking a layover is that it can help you avoid jet lag. By breaking up a long journey into two shorter flights, you give your body a chance to adjust to the time difference gradually.

Choosing the right layover city

Choosing the right layover city can be crucial to your trip. Make sure to research the layover city and ensure that you have enough time to explore and make it to your connecting flight. Some airports like the Hamad International Airport in Qatar offer free city tours for passengers with long layovers, so be sure to check if that’s an option.

When choosing a layover city, consider what you want to see and do. If you’re a foodie, look for a city with a renowned food scene. If you’re interested in history and culture, find a city with museums and landmarks that interest you. And if you just want to relax, look for a city with beautiful parks or beaches where you can unwind.

Stopovers

Stopovers are similar to layovers, but they involve staying in a city for more than 24 hours. This can be a great way to turn a long journey into a mini-vacation. Many airlines such as Etihad offer stopover programs that allow you to book a multi-day stay in a city at no extra cost.

Stopovers can be a great way to explore a city you’ve always wanted to visit. You can take your time to see the sights, try the local cuisine, and get a feel for the culture. It’s like getting two trips for the price of one!

Overall, booking a layover or stopover can be a smart way to save money and make the most of your Canada to India flights. Just make sure to do your research and choose a city that suits your interests and needs.

5. Use airline rewards programs and credit card points

Travelling from Canada to India can be an expensive journey, but there are ways to save money. One of the best ways is to take advantage of airline rewards programs and credit card points. Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of these programs:

Earning points through frequent flyer programs

If you travel frequently, signing up for frequent flyer programs with airlines can help you earn points for your travels. These points can be used towards flights, upgrades, and other rewards. Additionally, many airlines offer bonus points for signing up for their frequent flyer program, so it’s worth looking into. One such example is the Aeroplan rewards program from Air Canada, which allows you to save up points for your next flight.

It’s also important to remember that not all airlines are created equal when it comes to rewards programs. Some airlines may offer better redemption options or more generous point earning opportunities than others. Do your research and compare the rewards programs of different airlines to find the one that best suits your needs.

Saving up for flights with credit cards

Many credit card companies offer reward programs that allow you to earn points for every dollar you spend. These points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including flights. Some credit card companies even offer welcome bonus points, and you can use a technique called credit card churning to make the most out of your new credit cards.

One such credit card that offers an attractive rewards program is the RBC Avion credit card. With the RBC Avion card, cardholders can earn points for every dollar spent, and what sets it apart is that it offers an additional perk specifically for travel expenses. Cardholders can enjoy 25% more points on their travel-related purchases, making it an ideal choice for frequent travelers.

Redeeming credit card points for flights

When it comes to redeeming credit card points for flights, it’s important to do your research. Some credit card reward programs may have restrictions on which airlines you can book with or how many points you need to redeem for a flight.

The Aeroplan frequent flyer program from Air Canada is a great option for people who want to make the most of their flights. With as little as 55,000 points, you can book a flight from Toronto to Delhi with any of their many partner airlines that participate in the Star Alliance network.

For individuals who don’t fly often and prefer to utilize their points locally, there are additional choices available. A notable example is the Scene+ loyalty program, which enables you to accumulate points and utilize them for various everyday needs. Redeem your points for movie tickets, groceries, and even pharmacy items, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your points on a regular basis.

6. Take advantage of discounts and promotions

When it comes to booking Canada to India flights, it’s always wise to keep an eye out for discounts and promotions that can help you save some money. After all, every penny counts, especially when you’re traveling on a budget. Here are a few ways you can take advantage of discounts and promotions so that even you can hack your way into cheaper holidays.

Student and senior discounts

If you’re a student or senior citizen, you’re in luck! Many airlines offer discounts to students and seniors, which can significantly reduce the cost of your airfare. However, it’s important to note that these discounts may come with certain restrictions, such as blackout dates or limited availability. So, make sure to do your research and read the fine print before booking your flight.

Students can enjoy Air Canada’s Student Flight Pass program, touting benefits such as locked-in pricing, flexible booking options, and no blackout dates. Seniors, on the other hand, can take advantage of Air Inuit’s 50% discount for seniors 60 and older.

Additionally, make sure to bring your student or senior ID with you when you travel. This will help you qualify for the discount and avoid any issues at the airport.

Seasonal promotions and sales

Another way to save money on your Canada to India flights is by taking advantage of seasonal promotions and sales. Airlines often offer discounts and special deals during certain seasons, such as the holiday season or the summer months.

To stay informed about these promotions, sign up for the airline’s email newsletter or follow them on social media. This way, you’ll be among the first to know about any upcoming sales or promotions.

However, keep in mind that these promotions may have limited availability and may sell out quickly. So, if you see a deal that you’re interested in, don’t wait too long to book your flight!

7. Bundle your flight with accommodations or car rentals

Bundling your flight with accommodations or car rentals can help you save money on your Canada to India travel. Here are a few things to consider when bundling:

Benefits of bundling

Bundling can help you save money on your overall travel expenses. It can also provide convenience by booking everything in one go. For example, a flight from Toronto to Mumbai with a two-week stay in the Taj Mahal Palace can cost up to C$7046 if you purchase both separately. On the other hand, bundling this trip with Expedia can bring down the cost to C$6670, a significant saving of C$376! By bundling your flight and hotel together, you can enjoy the benefits of a lower overall price and the ease of having everything arranged in a single transaction.

How to find the best package deals

Holiday bundling providers like Expedia, Skyscanner, and Hotwire have revolutionized the way people plan their vacations. These platforms offer travelers a convenient one-stop solution by combining flights, accommodations, and car rentals into attractive bundles. With just a few clicks, travelers can easily compare prices, find the best deals, and save both time and money. From flexible date searches to personalized recommendations, holiday bundling providers have become invaluable tools for those seeking hassle-free and cost-effective travel arrangements.

Make sure to get the best insurance for your car rental

Bundling often means you are going to rent a car. Getting car insurance for your holiday offers essential protection and peace of mind. It safeguards against unexpected events like accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle, minimizing financial burdens and potential disruptions to your trip. Some travel credit cards offer car insurance as a built-in feature for every trip you go on. But they are not all the same. Therefore, it is important to know all the perks and benefits that come with your travel credit card.

8. Choose non-Canadian airlines for cheaper flights

Choosing a non-Canadian airline for travel from Canada to India can offer several enticing benefits. One significant advantage is the potential for cost savings. Non-Canadian airlines often provide more competitive prices compared to their Canadian counterparts. For instance, a round trip Economy class flight from Vancouver to Delhi with Air Canada may cost around $1575, whereas the same journey with Etihad Airways could be as low as $815, allowing travelers to save a substantial amount.

Additionally, opting for a non-Canadian airline can introduce passengers to a variety of perks and benefits. These airlines may offer unique onboard experiences, including diverse cuisine options, entertainment choices, and amenity kits, which can enhance the overall travel experience. Moreover, non-Canadian carriers often provide exceptional customer service and maintain high standards of hospitality.

Furthermore, flying with a non-Canadian airline can provide an opportunity to explore different transit hubs and expand travel options. This can be particularly advantageous for travelers seeking convenient layover destinations or additional destinations on their itinerary.