Monsoon in India is a magical time – think lush green landscapes, misty hills, and the fresh scent of petrichor. But when it comes to air travel, this romantic season can also bring unexpected delays, turbulent flights, and damp luggage.
Travelling by flight during the monsoon season has its own set of challenges. From unpredictable weather conditions to heavy rainfall affecting visibility and ground transport, your travel experience can become stressful if you aren’t well-prepared.
In this blog, we’ll take you through a detailed checklist of things to keep in mind when flying during the monsoon, so you can breeze through your journey – even if it’s raining cats and dogs outside!
Things to Keep in Mind When Travelling During Monsoon via Flight
🌧️ 1. Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast
Monsoon is notorious for sudden thunderstorms and showers. Before your flight, check the weather forecast for both your departure and arrival cities.
- Use trusted apps like AccuWeather, IMD, or Google Weather.
- If there’s a forecast of heavy rain, consider leaving early for the airport.
Pro Tip: Enable alerts for weather and flight changes to stay informed in real time.
🧳 2. Pack Water-Resistant Travel Essentials
Waterproofing your essentials is non-negotiable during the monsoon.
- Use zip-lock bags, dry pouches, or packing cubes for electronics, documents, and clothes.
- Carry a polybag or waterproof tote for emergency use (especially helpful at smaller airports with open access to boarding gates).
Also, invest in a hard-shell suitcase that can withstand water exposure, or use a suitcase cover.
🩴 3. Dress Smart for Rainy Weather
Choose your travel outfit keeping monsoon conditions in mind:
- Wear quick-dry or synthetic fabrics (avoid heavy cotton or denim).
- Prefer flip-flops, crocs, or waterproof shoes if it’s already pouring.
- Keep an extra pair of socks or a change of clothes in your carry-on, just in case you get drenched en route.
🕓 4. Leave Earlier Than Usual for the Airport
Monsoon rains can lead to traffic jams, waterlogging, and slower movement on roads.
It’s advisable to:
- Leave at least 1.5 to 2 hours earlier than your usual airport commute time.
- Consider using metro or airport express trains wherever available to avoid traffic delays.
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🛫 5. Expect Flight Delays or Reschedules
Rain affects runway visibility and aircraft operations, especially in busy metros like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
To stay ahead:
- Track your flight status on the airline app or flight tracking websites like Flightradar24.
- Book flights that depart early in the day, as delays tend to pile up later.
Tip: Avoid very tight layovers if you’re flying with connecting flights.
📱 6. Download the Airline App & Stay Updated
An underrated yet powerful travel hack: install the airline’s app for:
- Real-time flight updates
- Terminal changes
- Gate information
- Rebooking options in case of delays or cancellations
Bonus: Some airlines offer web check-in-only counters, helping you skip long queues during rush hours.
🏨 7. Book Flexible or Refundable Tickets
Given the risk of last-minute cancellations, it’s smart to book:
- Refundable tickets or
- Add free cancellation, rescheduling, or insurance plans (like Paytm’s Travel Pass or Assured Plans)
This way, your wallet won’t take a hit if plans change due to weather issues.
☔ 8. Carry a Compact Umbrella or Foldable Raincoat
Even if you’re taking a cab door-to-door, you’ll need to walk a bit outside the terminal. Having a small foldable umbrella or compact raincoat can be a game-changer.
Avoid large umbrellas – they’re inconvenient during airport security checks and tough to pack.
🔌 9. Power Up Your Devices in Advance
With weather delays, phone battery backup is crucial:
- Charge your phone, power bank, and earbuds fully.
- Download offline content (music, Netflix, etc.) in case Wi-Fi isn’t working.
- Keep all chargers and cables in your carry-on, not in check-in.
💊 10. Keep Emergency Medications Handy
Rainy weather can increase the risk of infections, allergies, and travel sickness.
Always carry a small medical pouch with:
- Motion sickness tablets
- Anti-cold or flu medications
- Sanitiser, masks, and tissues
Bonus: Pack ORS sachets if you’re prone to dehydration or have to walk in the rain.
📑 11. Print Out Your Tickets & IDs
Monsoon storms can sometimes knock out mobile networks or Wi-Fi.
It’s always wise to:
- Carry a hard copy of your flight ticket, hotel booking, and ID proofs
- Store digital backups in your email or cloud apps (like Google Drive)
🚖 12. Pre-Book Your Airport Transfers
Avoid standing in long cab queues or depending on last-minute bookings.
- Use apps like Paytm, Uber, or Ola to book ahead.
- Some airports face cab shortages during heavy rain.
If you’re landing at night, pre-arranged cabs are safer and more dependable.
🛬 13. Know Your Airport Layout
Not all airports are monsoon-friendly. In India, airports like Goa (Dabolim), Bagdogra, or Shillong may have open tarmac access, requiring passengers to walk in rain to/from shuttle buses. In such cases:
- Board early to get closer to exit
- Keep your rain gear in hand, not stashed away
🍴 14. Pack Dry Snacks & Water
Delays can lead to longer waiting periods at terminals, and some airport kiosks might run out of stock. Carry:
- Dry snacks like energy bars, biscuits, namkeen
- A refillable water bottle (refill after security check)
- Avoid dairy-based or oily food before a bumpy monsoon flight
🛑 15. Have a Backup Plan
Even with all precautions, monsoon weather is unpredictable. Always have a backup:
- A Plan B flight (especially for business travel)
- Contact details of your airline/hotel/customer support
- A day buffer if travelling for important events (like weddings or exams)
🌈 Conclusion: Ready for a Smooth Monsoon Flight?
While monsoons bring refreshing weather and greenery, they also demand extra care when you’re flying. By planning and staying informed, you can enjoy a stress-free and even pleasant travel experience.
From waterproofing your luggage to checking weather alerts, the smallest steps can make the biggest difference.
So go ahead – book your monsoon getaway today with confidence.
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