Travel is ever-changing, this much we know. While the world of travel trends evolves year after year, the actual process in how a person travels is also changing. For example, Hiring a travel agent is something that was once considered to be outdated. In today's world, it's not enough to book a trip and be worry-free - rather, there are many worries when booking a trip in a post-pandemic world.
Will flights change or be canceled? Will the borders close? Will the restrictions change for entering a country? Will the hotel change its policies? Will money be lost if anything is postponed or rescheduled?
All of these are valid questions, and, also great questions when making the argument for using a travel agent in 2022.
Why A Travel Agent Is So Helpful, Especially Now
It's the job of a travel agent to know about things that the average traveler won't. They'll be familiar with off-peak seasons for select destinations, the best deals on flights and accommodations, and activities or tours in the area that might be of interest. While this is helpful during the average year, in a world where nothing is certain, this is also exceptionally helpful when planning ahead.
Travel Insurance, Hidden Fees, And Restrictions
Travel insurance is a big deal now, and it's getting people's attention following two years of lost bookings due to the pandemic. Navigating the world of travel insurance, however, is another story. When it's in the hands of an expert, things do get much easier, and travelers can rest assured that even though they're paying someone to plan their trip, it'll run smoothly and they'll be covered in more ways than one.
Hidden fees, like those associated with airlines and select seating, for example, are another reason to consider a travel agent. Decades ago, there were not nearly as many options as those which exist today. When it comes to hotel or resort bookings, these fees can often surprise a traveler whereas, with a travel agent, everything will be on the table before one even books a trip.
In terms of restrictions, every country seems to have them in some form or another. It can be an utter nightmare attempting to navigate these from country to country without the help of a professional. As the trip gets nearer, travel agents will also be able to provide updated information and - guess what - will be able to handle it all (including cancelations) if things go south. According to an article by US Today, travel advisors are now well-versed in the ever-changing world of test requirements and vaccines. Whereas identifying these requirements would be a lot of work for one traveler, travel advisors have access to the entire world and its post-pandemic checklist for travel.
Knowing When To Go With A Travel Agent Vs. Not
Knowing when to use a travel agent is just as important as making the commitment. A general rule of thumb is that if a vacation is a weekend or long weekend, a travel agent is not necessarily required. Additionally, if the trip involves only domestic travel, there's really no need to hire someone to book flights and arrange accommodations (unless one wishes to).
On the other hand, if a trip involves any kind of international travel or is a week or longer, it's better to go with someone who knows the ropes. Even experienced travelers may find merit in hiring a travel agent, at least for specific things such as bookings and flights.
Vacation-Specific Needs When Booking With A Travel Agent
Another reason one might find it helpful to book with a travel agent is when their vacation is specific. By this, we mean a trip that involves a complex itinerary or activities that are specific to a theme. For example, planning a trip to Thailand for underwater excursions such as scuba or snorkeling. If the entire trip is centered around these excursions, including lodging that features services of the same, a travel agent is incredibly helpful.
Another example would be when planning a wellness trip. Anything that involves specific services - such as spa services - or yoga, tranquility, and general healing-centered retreats, could use the help of an expert. This is also a great chance to seek out a travel agent or agency that is familiar with these types of trips. Travelers will be rewarded with the absolute certainty of knowing they've secured a spot, as well as being in the trusted hands of experts who are familiar with people or the services themselves.
In 2022, with the unpredictability of travel still on the horizon, there are more reasons than not to allow a travel agent the opportunity to create a brilliant vacation.