The Difference Between Online Booking and a Travel Agency

On the surface, online booking platforms and on-the-go apps might seem like one of the most convenient ways to book flights, hotels, rental cars, and other necessities for a vacation. However, there are limitations to planning a vacation through these options depending on the type of trip you want to go on and how many people you plan on taking with you. There are several key benefits of a travel agent to consider before deciding how to plan your next trip.

Why Use a Travel Agent Instead of Booking Online

So what does a travel agent do? These professionals help plan and book as many aspects of a trip as you want using their knowledge of the industry and an extensive network of connections.

You’ll Get Expert Service

Even if you’re a seasoned traveler, you’ve likely only booked a few dozen trips. A leisure travel advisor has planned hundreds (if not thousands) of successful vacations in their career. They have endless knowledge beyond flight and hotel reservations and visa applications. Between first-hand travel experiences of their own and working with clients, a travel advisor can answer all your questions about a destination and easily handle all the logistics.

They’ll Help You Book Unique Experiences

When you plan a vacation, you’re likely also figuring out an itinerary jam-packed with activities to do and sights to see. While it’s possible to book some of these online, a travel advisor can leverage their network to help you book one-of-a-kind experiences. Imagine having a private cooking class focused on your favorite cuisine or a behind-the-scenes tour of an acclaimed museum. Online providers simply can’t connect you to these kinds of activities and excursions.

They Specialize In Specific Areas of Travel

Many travel advisors have niche areas of travel they are passionate about or book frequently for clients. Whether you’re going on a tropical honeymoon cruise, a safari, a family-friendly amusement park vacation, or a ski trip, there is likely a travel advisor well-versed in your specialty. They know the ins and outs of their expertise better than anyone, with plenty of helpful knowledge about crafting a personalized itinerary or selecting a specific kind of accommodation.

They Can Help You Find Deals

One reason people choose to book online is the perception of the great deal they’re getting. In reality, most online booking sites don’t actually offer deals; booking directly with a hotel, for example, is often similarly priced if not slightly cheaper than using an online booking site. If you have a budget you’d like to stick to, a travel agent can help you find the best value for your price range. They take into account all the fine print and extra fees, which are sometimes hidden on online booking sites.

They’ll Solve Problems For You

For simple trips, booking a flight and a hotel is pretty manageable on your own. But for more complicated bookings like multigenerational family trips, enlisting the help of a travel advisor might be a necessity. They’ll be able to help you determine the fastest, most efficient way to get between cities and find must-have amenities or specific accommodation requirements. Plus, if your trip hits an unplanned snag, you can easily contact your travel advisor to help reschedule a canceled flight, cruise, train, or accommodation.

You’ll Save Time

Comparing trip details in multiple browser windows can be time-consuming and frustrating. A travel advisor does this research for you, presenting you with just a few options based on what is most important to you. Even if you already have a destination in mind, a travel agent can narrow down accommodation and transportation options, potential activities based on your preferences, and other vacation essentials without you having to spend hours figuring out everything on your own.

You’ll Get More Out Of Your Trip

Why use a travel agent instead of booking online? Simply put, you’ll have a better trip, without the stress of planning your trip alone. A travel advisor can accommodate your interests, budget, and time frame with their wealth of knowledge and expertise to make sure that you get the most out of your time away from home.

When To Use a Travel Agent

A travel advisor is a huge asset for those who are planning a complicated trip. This could include a multi-destination adventure, a trip focused on specific niches, or a vacation that takes you off the beaten path with unique, immersive experiences. You may also want to consider using a travel agent if you have limited planning time available or want to maximize your itinerary. Of course, you can also use a travel agent for a simple, straightforward trip as well, if you need or want the extra support they provide for any reason!