The world of travel is constantly changing and in order to keep up, the method of travel planning is also continuously changing. From travel agents to Expedia and even Groupon travel packages, there are a seemingly endless number of options out there nowadays. Which, of course, begs the question: Do actual travel experts have any role in the world of trip-planning nowadays?
Contrary to popular belief, there is still a time and place when consulting with a travel agent will not only help to plan a vacation but will help travelers save money, as well. Although the idea of travel agencies is a thing of the past, that doesn't mean potential travelers won't benefit from having someone on the inside - here's how.
Let's Talk Money-Saving
For starters, booking through a website such as Expedia or Travelocity doesn't necessarily give travelers the option to put down a deposit before paying the final balance in full. In a world where everyone is seeking out budget-friendly travel options, it can be frustrating when everything is due upfront. This also limits travelers in the sense that any plans that need changing or alternating can't be done after the fact - whereas travel agents are able to amend plans as time goes on. Booking with an agent also allows (in most cases) travelers to put a hold on things such as hotels. By doing this, it allows the option for everyone in the group to chat and discuss whether that works for everyone.
Another promising benefit of booking with an agent is access to early prices and discounts. Travel agents have access to promotions that many people don't, even when it comes to third-party booking companies. Early-bird specials on travel can include:
- Rooms that are reserved intentionally, even when they're booked up on other sites
- A more expansive choice of flights and airlines
- Incentives when it comes to booking a trip earlier rather than later
By taking advantage of booking with an agent, travelers can rest assured that their plans are locked in place, as well. When booking elsewhere, plans are solidified until a balance is paid in full and, even then, many travelers hold their breaths until they have email confirmations of everything.
No Need To Tango With Flight Plans
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of booking with a travel agent is one it comes to large groups. If the travel plans include four or fewer people, it's probably pretty safe to say that planning is easy enough to do within the group. However, if travel group sizes are more than five, things get a bit tricker. When it comes to people flying in from multiple places and attempting to meet up at one place, an agent can be incredibly helpful. Rather than travelers navigating the maze of confusion that is plane arrival and departure times, different time zones, and potential deals, it's worth allowing someone else to handle it who's equipped to do so.
According to Nomadic Matt, the greatest benefit of turning to a travel agent to figure this out is the bonus of saving time. When it comes to travel planning, the headache isn't often worth the time spent on the work it takes to get there. Therefore, most people won't mind paying a bit extra just to have their airline plans sorted out for them. In the long run, this is still - and will likely always be - the best course of action for large groups. Alternatively, this is also a great option for those who plan to do something such as island-hopping or country-hopping, even if the travel group is smaller.
Travel Agents Are Beginner-Friendly
Another great reason to opt for a travel agent or booking agency is if one is a novice traveler. Not everyone has extensive experience booking flights, events, hotels, etc., and not everyone wants to learn how to do that. Purchasing a Groupon package or Costco deal is one thing, but travelers often still need to sort out their flights as well as any potential excursions or tours they might be interested in once they land. Travel agencies will often be offering their own discounted packages, as well - and this is certainly something to inquire about when determining which to go with.
If any of these are confusing:
- Plane tickets
- Time zones around the world
- Comparing hotels
- Figuring out public transportation in another country
- Finding reputable restaurants
- Finding the best travel deals
Then it might be time to consider going with a travel agent. Sometimes, it's just easier to pay someone else to figure these things out - plus, they'll know the travel scene better than anyone else.