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What makes Indian travel unique? From forgotten passports to packing namkeen, travel habits revealed

The Quirky World of Indian Travel: Unpacking Habits That Define Desi Wanderlust

Traveling as an Indian is more than just booking flights and hotels; it's a cultural spectacle laced with habits that are equal parts endearing, chaotic, and utterly unique. From the last-minute frenzy of forgetting essential documents to the ritualistic packing of homemade snacks like namkeen, Indian travelers bring a flavor to globetrotting that's distinctly desi. A recent exploration into these habits reveals how our journeys are shaped by family dynamics, resourcefulness, and a healthy dose of improvisation. Whether it's a family vacation to Goa or an international escapade to Europe, these quirks make Indian travel stand out in a world of streamlined itineraries and minimalist packing. Let's dive deep into what makes our travel style so unforgettable, drawing from common experiences shared by millions of Indians who hit the road (or skies) each year.

One of the most notorious habits is the infamous "forgotten passport" syndrome. Picture this: You've planned a dream trip abroad, spent months saving up, and as you reach the airport counter, panic sets in – the passport is sitting snugly on your bedside table back home. This isn't just an anecdote; it's a rite of passage for many Indian travelers. According to various travel surveys and airport anecdotes, Indians top the charts for last-minute document mishaps. Why does this happen? It's often a mix of overconfidence and the whirlwind of pre-travel preparations. In large joint families, where multiple generations travel together, the responsibility for essentials gets diffused. "Who was supposed to pack the visas?" becomes a heated debate en route to the airport. But here's where Indian ingenuity shines: We've mastered the art of quick fixes. From pleading with airline staff for extensions to pulling strings through distant relatives who "know someone" at the embassy, we turn potential disasters into stories worth retelling at family gatherings. This habit underscores a broader cultural trait – our ability to adapt and improvise under pressure, turning "oops" moments into adventures.

No discussion of Indian travel is complete without addressing the sacred act of packing namkeen and other homemade goodies. While Western travelers might opt for protein bars or airport salads, Indians transform their suitcases into portable pantries. Bags of spicy mixtures, bhakarwadi, chakli, and the ever-present thepla (Gujarati flatbread) are staples. This isn't mere nostalgia; it's a survival strategy born from skepticism toward foreign cuisines and a desire to maintain dietary comforts. Imagine landing in Paris, the city of croissants and escargot, only to whip out a packet of Haldiram's sev for a midnight snack. Travel bloggers and influencers often highlight how this habit stems from our diverse regional food cultures – Punjabis might pack parathas, South Indians idli podi, and Bengalis their rosogollas in syrup-proof containers. It's also economical; with rising travel costs, why splurge on overpriced airport food when you can carry a taste of home? Moreover, this packing ritual fosters family bonds. Mothers and grandmothers spend hours preparing these treats, infusing the journey with love and tradition. However, it comes with its own set of challenges: Customs officials worldwide have raised eyebrows at these edible treasures, sometimes leading to confiscations under biosecurity rules. Yet, for many, the risk is worth it – nothing beats munching on khakra while gazing at the Eiffel Tower.

Beyond snacks, Indian travelers are known for their overpacking prowess. Suitcases bursting at the seams with clothes for every conceivable weather scenario, backup outfits, and enough toiletries to last a zombie apocalypse are par for the course. This stems from a "better safe than sorry" mentality, influenced by unpredictable Indian monsoons and the fear of laundry mishaps abroad. Families often travel with multiple generations, so packing includes everything from baby diapers to elderly medications. Add to that the cultural emphasis on dressing up – no Indian traveler wants to be caught underdressed at a landmark photo op. Social media amplifies this: Instagram-worthy outfits mean extra luggage, leading to those classic airport scenes of repacking at check-in counters to avoid excess baggage fees. Resourceful hacks abound, like wearing multiple layers to the airport or stuffing shoes with socks and small items. This overpacking isn't just practical; it's a reflection of our hospitable nature. Gifts for relatives abroad – think spices, handicrafts, or even pressure cookers – often tip the scales, turning vacations into mini export missions.

Group travel dynamics add another layer of uniqueness to Indian journeys. Unlike solo backpackers in Europe, Indians prefer traveling in packs – families, friends, or even extended clans. This leads to hilarious negotiations over itineraries: The elders want temple visits, the kids demand amusement parks, and the millennials push for adventure sports. Compromises result in eclectic trips, like combining a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi with a detour to a nearby mall. Bargaining is another hallmark; from haggling with cab drivers in Bangkok to negotiating souvenir prices in Istanbul, Indians bring their street-smart negotiation skills to global markets. It's not stinginess but a cultural sport – saving a few bucks feels like a victory. Language barriers? No problem. A mix of broken English, Hindi, and enthusiastic gestures gets the job done, often leading to heartwarming cross-cultural exchanges.

Technology plays a fascinating role too. While apps like MakeMyTrip and Booking.com are lifelines, Indians have a love-hate relationship with them. We book impulsively during flash sales but second-guess with endless reviews and family consultations. Social media influences heavily: A viral reel about a hidden beach in Thailand can reroute an entire family vacation. Yet, there's a reliance on human networks – calling that cousin in Dubai for insider tips trumps any algorithm. Post-travel, the habit of sharing exhaustive photo albums on WhatsApp groups ensures the experience lives on, with captions like "Family goals in foreign soil!"

Health and safety habits reveal our cautious side. Indians often carry a mini pharmacy: From antacids for spicy street food regrets to mosquito repellents (even in non-tropical destinations), we're prepared for ailments. This is rooted in experiences with India's diverse climates and health challenges, making us hyper-vigilant abroad. Water paranoia is real – bottled water only, please, even if it means lugging heavy packs. And let's not forget the spiritual safeguards: Many tuck in a small idol or prayer beads, seeking divine protection for safe travels.

What ties these habits together is the emotional core of Indian travel. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about creating memories with loved ones, honoring traditions, and asserting our identity in a globalized world. In an era of sustainable travel and minimalism, our style might seem excessive, but it's authentic. As travel rebounds post-pandemic, these quirks are evolving – younger Indians blend desi habits with eco-friendly choices, like reusable snack containers. Yet, the essence remains: Indian travel is a vibrant tapestry of chaos, comfort, and connection.

In essence, from forgotten passports that test our resilience to namkeen packets that evoke home, our travel habits paint a picture of a nation that's resourceful, family-oriented, and unapologetically flavorful. Next time you're at an airport, spot that group animatedly unpacking snacks or bargaining for lounge access – that's the Indian traveler in action, turning every trip into a story worth savoring. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full moneycontrol.com Article at:
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