Fancy escaping Mumbai’s maddening chaos for a breath of fresh air? There’s something magical about piling mates and family into a vehicle and hitting the open road – but let’s be honest, these dream getaways often crash and burn before you’ve even reached the halfway mark. Squashed together like sardines, luggage practically on laps, and that one friend who’s already asking “are we there yet?”
Backpacking in India: Mumbai
Smart travellers have cracked the code with Tempo Traveller booking Mumbai that locals swear by for group journeys. These spacious beasts accommodate 9-16 people comfortably, saving you from the nightmare of a multi-car convoy getting separated on Maharashtra’s busy highways. But here’s the kicker – choose the wrong one, and you’re in for hours of regret on the road.
The Vehicle That Makes or Breaks Your Getaway
Ever found yourself stuck halfway to Alibaug with passengers moaning about numb backsides and no legroom? Or perhaps sweating buckets because the air-con’s struggling worse than a ceiling fan in peak summer? These holiday-ruining scenarios happen when booking decisions get rushed.
Go for a quality vehicle and suddenly the journey transforms from tedious necessity to proper holiday vibes. The posh Tempo Travellers come kitted out with cushiony seats, properly functioning climate control, telly screens, and drivers who actually know where those brilliant roadside vada pav stalls are hiding. The difference feels massive, yet often costs just a few hundred rupees more per head.
Must-Have Features Worth Checking Before Booking
Seats and Space (Not Just Numbers!)
Don’t fall for the basic “12-seater” descriptions. They mean nothing if everyone’s knees are touching their chins. Ask pointed questions about:
- Proper cushioning and back support – Your posterior will thank you after hour five
- Decent gaps between rows – No one fancies breathing down someone’s neck for 300 kilometres
- Views for everyone – Being stuck in the middle watching the back of someone’s head isn’t anyone’s idea of sightseeing
The classic blunder? Trying to squeeze in too many people to save a few quid. False economy, that. By hour three, you’ll be paying in complaints and toilet stops instead of rupees.
Cooling and Creature Comforts
Mumbai’s sweltering climate demands serious cooling power reaching every passenger. Imagine being stuck in summer traffic with inadequate aircon – pure torture! Beyond basic cooling, worthwhile extras include:
- Separate air vents that passengers can adjust themselves (prevents air-con wars)
- Charging spots for keeping mobiles and cameras alive
- Something to watch or listen to when conversation inevitably dies after the first two hours
Small details? Perhaps. But they make all the difference when travelling with grumpy teenagers or grandparents who feel every bump in the road.
Safety Bits You’d Be Daft to Ignore
The accident statistics for Maharashtra’s highways make for grim reading. Those winding ghat sections between Mumbai and favourite spots like Lonavala claim vehicles regularly. Your booking choice directly impacts your group’s safety.
Double-check these non-negotiables:
- How old’s the vehicle? Newer models (under 5 years) typically have better safety kit
- Who’s behind the wheel? You want someone who’s navigated those hairpin bends hundreds of times before
- Basic safety features like working seatbelts for every passenger (sounds obvious, but you’d be shocked)
Too many budget operators skimp on maintenance checks and hire whoever’s cheapest to drive. That small saving looks foolish when you’re carrying your nearest and dearest.
The True Cost (Not Just What They First Tell You)
That tempting quote rarely tells the whole story. Surprise charges have a nasty habit of popping up mid-journey, leading to awkward “who’s paying for this then?” moments. Watch out for:
- Toll and parking charges mysteriously not mentioned initially
- Where the driver sleeps on overnight trips (and who’s covering it)
- Extra hourly rates when your schedule runs a bit long
- Clean-up charges after that inevitably messy beach picnic
Demand an itemised quote covering all possibilities. Reputable companies provide this willingly. Spending ten extra minutes sorting these details saves hours of holiday-ruining arguments later.
When to Book (Hint: Not the Day Before)
During Mumbai’s peak travel seasons (October-January and summer holidays), quality vehicles get snapped up faster than discount designer goods. Last-minute planners typically end up with whatever’s left – usually the oldest, most basic options in the fleet.
Book 3-4 weeks ahead to bag the cream of the crop and stronger negotiating power. Last-minute bookings typically cost 20-30% more for inferior vehicles – a double whammy no group organiser wants to explain to their disappointed travel companions.
Worth Every Extra Rupee
Split between 9-16 travellers, upgrading from basic to brilliant typically costs about ₹200-300 more per person. That’s less than a fancy coffee shop beverage, yet transforms hours of potential misery into quality time together.
Group journeys create memories that last decades. Don’t let vehicle discomfort or dodgy safety standards tarnish these precious moments with loved ones. Choose thoughtfully, book early, and enjoy the journey properly.
The open roads around Mumbai hold adventures waiting to be discovered – just make sure you’re travelling in proper comfort to enjoy them fully.