Traveling Tips for Students:

• Block your tickets well in advance. (this implies no financial commitment). This can be done via travel agents. Make sure the Travel Agent is good (examples of dependable travel agents are - Travel Corporation of India (TCI), Parrys Travels). All India Travel Agency (AITA)
• Block flights with many airlines/agencies. Put pressure on the agencies and get as much info as possible. Much before the flight call the airlines themselves and confirm your ticket. Indicate whether you want Asian Vegetarian Meal (AVM), non-smoking section, etc. Cross-check everything the travel agent says. Some airlines offer Frequent Flier programs (e.g. Air France, TWA) [i.e. after a certain # of miles of flying with that airline you get a free ticket]. Enroll in such programs.
• Avoid change of airline. A direct flight is the best. If change of airline can't be avoided, leave at least 4-6 hrs gap between the scheduled arrival of one flight and the scheduled departure of the connecting flight. Baggage is usually safe with a single airline - change of airline sometimes leads to misplaced luggage. Some airlines don't take care of baggage transfer - you may have to personally carry it check this while booking)