Students, Immigrants & Baggage: Practical Travel Checklist (Canada ⇄ India)

Students usually find the lowest fares on one-stop international routes booked 6–10 weeks in advance. Prices are often comparable to regular fares, but the real savings come from extra baggage allowances included in student tickets.

Some airlines offer student-specific fares that include additional checked baggage. These fares are usually available only through verified student bookings and may require a valid student ID at check-in.

Checklist:

  • Valid student ID
  • University admission letter (recommended)
  • Student fare selected at booking

Most long-haul flights allow two checked bags as standard. Weight limits vary, but exceeding them can result in high excess baggage fees, so confirming allowance before booking is essential.

Airlines offering higher baggage limits are often preferred by students and long-term travelers. Choosing a slightly higher ticket price with more included baggage can reduce total travel cost compared to paying excess fees later.

Yes, but discounts are usually indirect. Instead of lower base fares, students benefit more from flexible tickets, added baggage, and easier date changes, which can be more valuable than a small price reduction.

Student fares are not always cheaper upfront. However, when factoring in extra baggage and flexibility, they are often more cost-effective for students carrying more luggage.

Flexible tickets allow date changes with minimal or no penalty. These are useful for students and immigrants with uncertain travel plans.

Checklist before booking:

  • Check change fee policy
  • Confirm fare difference rules
  • Avoid “basic” or “restricted” tickets
  • Refundable flights usually cost more initially. To minimize cost:

    • Choose partially refundable fares
    • Avoid peak travel dates
    • Book mid-week departures

    These options balance refund flexibility with reasonable pricing.

    Travelers should carry:

    • Valid passport
    • Valid visa or entry permit
    • Student ID or admission letter (if applicable)
    • Return or onward ticket (recommended)

    Always keep both digital and printed copies.

    There are no official “immigrant fares,” but long-term travelers benefit from:

    • Higher baggage allowance tickets
    • Flexible change policies
    • One-stop routes with stable pricing

    These options are often more practical than chasing the lowest base fare.