Travel is always an excellent opportunity for fun and relaxation, but planning the trip can be anything but! A travel agent can help make it so much easier. From saving you money to ensuring everything goes smoothly, a good travel agent can be invaluable.
So if you’re a little less experienced with booking your travel, or if you’re planning an important trip such as an anniversary or honeymoon, you may be thinking about working with a travel agent. And if you are, you’re probably wondering how to find a travel agent that’s right for you.
In this article we’ll tell you all about how to find a travel agent, as well as some of the reasons using a travel agent can be beneficial.
Why Use a Travel Agent?
Travel agents specialize in planning all types of trips. One of the best reasons for working with an agent is that they handle all the stressful and confusing parts of booking a getaway, giving you the freedom to relax and enjoy your vacation worry free!
There are also plenty of other great reasons to work with a travel agent. Here are some of the top reasons to find a travel agent:
Travel Agents Can Get Better Deals
It’s a common misconception that booking a vacation directly is always the cheapest option. But in actuality, travel agents have access to deals and discounts that aren’t available to the general public.
This means that a travel agent can typically find you a better vacation to fit your budget than you would find when booking directly.
Travel Agents Can Get Extra Perks
A better room for the same price? Flight upgrades for free? There are many perks you can get by working with a travel agent. Make sure to ask about what types of upgrades or freebies they can offer.
You Benefit from Their Experience and Advice
Travel agents are extremely experienced in their field. They are highly knowledgeable about their specialties and are able to provide you with guidance to ensure your trip is everything you dreamed it would be.
While you may be comfortable booking a vacation yourself, a travel agent can give extra support and point you in the direction of the best deals, times to travel, things to do, and where to stay.
Travel Agents Offer Service and Convenience
Booking a vacation can be challenging, particularly if you’re an inexperienced traveler or if the trip is complicated. Using the services of a travel agent takes away the stress that comes with booking, for both first-timers and experienced travelers alike.
They also provide support during your trip. If any issues arise, or if something isn’t up to scratch, they’ll take care of it or you. This allows you to relax rather than waste valuable time dealing with difficulties.
How to Find a Travel Agent
Finding and selecting the best travel agent for your desired trip type can be difficult. It’s important to find a good fit so you can feel confident and secure when booking a vacation with them.
To help you out, we’ve put together a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when selecting a travel agent to help book your dream getaway.
Check Their Travel Experience and Knowledge
Obviously, you’ll want to know the extent of their knowledge and experience of your desired destination or trip type. Read reviews or ask for referrals, and see what previous clients thought about their services.
Interview Potential Travel Agents
A phone conversation, Zoom call, or face-to-face discussion with a travel agent you’re considering is always helpful. This way you can get a clear understanding of their experience and the skills they have.
When chatting with a travel agent, here are some things you might want to ask them about.
- What destinations fit my budget/dates/reason for travel?
- Their own experience traveling to this destination
- Any legal documentation you may need to take with you
- Prior bookings they have made to this destination / for this trip type
And of course, any more questions that come to mind during your discussion!
Training and Credentials
Something else to think about when looking for a travel agent is their training and credentials. Be sure to look through any certificates and awards they have achieved throughout their career to ensure they match up with what you’re looking for.
When You Don’t Need a Travel Agent
You don’t always need to use a travel agent. Perhaps you’re a frequent traveler, and you know where you want to go and what kind of vacation you want to book. Or perhaps you’re looking to stay in a vacation home or Airbnb.
However, it may still be worthwhile to consider working with a travel agent, as they may be able to offer you deals and perks you can’t get on your own.
Travel Agent Recommendations
You may be wondering where you can find a travel agent who will take care of everything for you. The answer is, right here!
We work with trusted travel partners who have tons of expertise in all sorts of travel types and destinations. Each of the travel agents below has all 5-star reviews and years of experience.
For additional information and recommendations, check out our travel planning page.
Patty Coffey
Patty Coffey is one of the best cruise experts we work with. In addition to cruises, she also specializes in escorted tours and travel in both Ireland and France.
Shannon Hanes
Shannon Hanes is a great agent to work with no matter where you’re looking to travel to. A specialist in global and group travel, destination weddings, and honeymoons, she is also expert on travel to France, Italy, Spain, and Greece, as well as Tahiti, New Zealand, and Australia.
Alicia Hansen
Alicia Hansen specializes in luxury travel, from cruises to special occasion trips to luxury travel in Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australia. She is also an expert on luxury African safaris.
Mike Salvadore
Mike Salvadore is an expert on Italy, Bali, and Greece. He also specializes in global travel, so no matter your destination, you’ll be in capable hands if you choose to book a trip with him.