Can Travel Agents Get Better Deals On Flights Alone?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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However, with so many options to find low-cost airfare, like Google Flights, Scott’s Cheap Flights, and Skyscanner, booking your own flights is easy and cost-effective.

Most travel agents cannot score discounted flights

, and many travel agents will not even bother.

Is it cheaper to book your own flight or use a travel agent?

Seaton says

booking through a travel agent typically won’t cost you more

. She says while some agents will charge you a nominal planning fee, many agencies like hers do not charge anything extra for their services.

Do travel agents get better flight prices?


Travel agents can often score better prices for customers who book a full package

. Some cruise lines, for example, offer specially priced airfare for travelers.

Do travel agents get cheaper rates?


Not at all

! The cost of using a travel agent is generally marginal, and oftentimes they won’t charge you at all. Much of their money comes from the hotels and wholesalers they do business with.

Are travel agents worth it 2021?

If you’re thinking about booking a vacation in 2021,

it’s a no brainer to book with a travel advisor

. Working with an agent can save you both time and money and in turn, reduce all the stress that comes along with travel planning.

What are the disadvantages of using a travel agent?

Cons:

Travel agents don’t always present the cheapest option

. If you are price sensitive, the best option is to book online directly with the service provider. While agents can add perks and value add-ons, they don’t come cheap (think service fee and commission margins).

Is using a travel agent worth it?


Travel agents are useful if you’re doing a very costly or complex trip, planning a honeymoon or something fancy, or traveling with a large group

. They have access to a number of deals and bulk buying options we DIY solo consumers don’t, especially when it comes to tours, high-end flights, and cruises.

Is it more expensive to go through a travel agent?


It’s more expensive to book flights with a travel agent than booking online from home

. That’s because travel agents typically charge for their services, even booking a flight on your behalf. Still, an agent’s services could be worthwhile for some travelers hoping to avoid stressful vacation planning.

Is it more expensive to use a travel agent?


They don’t usually cost extra

.

It’s a myth that working with a travel agent will automatically cost you more; most get paid via commissions from the hotel or outfitter.

Can you negotiate with travel agents?

You can negotiate

According to the website loveEXPLORING,

you can haggle with travel agents, but they won’t let you in on that secret

. Travel agents hate when customers go with someone else because they got a lower price, and often, they’ll negotiate.

Do travel agents get commission on flights?

Commissions

Travel agents commissions used to be the bulk of their income but that has shifted.

Most travel agents who earn commission booking tickets on airlines earn 5% on domestic flights and 10-20% on international flights

. The commission rates are similar for booking hotels.

Is being a travel agent hard?

Being a travel agent allows you to make a living while pursuing your passion. You’ll spend more time researching and planning for tours, helping others create life-long memories. Although

the job might be challenging and demanding

, seeing the smiles on customers’ faces is enough joy for some people.

Do you have to pay travel agents upfront?

Many agents also charge clients a fee that’s separate from trip expenses, and that may range from $100 to $500 and up.

That fee can be charged up front as a security deposit

and can either be returned to you at the end of the planning process or, more commonly, applied to the cost of the trip itself.

Are Disney travel agents worth it?

Disney Travel Agents serve a much needed audience, and can do a lot of things for their clients. But they’re not 100% necessary to book an amazing trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland.

If you feel capable of doing it on your own, it’s perfectly possible.

Are travel agents obsolete?

The Bottom Line.

Travel agents are not going to become obsolete in the future

. In fact, the changing times have brought about some new opportunities for travel agents to capitalize on and grow.

Do travel agents travel a lot?

Of her

approximately 6-8 trips per year

, 90 percent of them have a travel industry connection. “What I mean by that is they are either fams put on by a supplier or an industry trade show, training or a conference.” She says that clients appreciate that she has experienced the destinations firsthand.

What is the difference between a travel advisor and a travel agent?

So, what’s the difference between a travel agent and a travel advisor?

There isn’t one

. It’s a matter of updated terminology within the industry: Thanks to a 2018 rebrand by the ASTA, travel agents are now known as travel advisors.

What are the perks of being a travel agent?

  • You get to share your passion. …
  • You travel and experience amazing cultures. …
  • You can be your own boss and work at home.
  • You make lifelong connections. …
  • You’re selling a dream. …
  • It’s never boring. …
  • You’re connected with like-minded people.
  • You get to share your expertise.
Rachel Ostrander
Author
Rachel Ostrander
Rachel is a career coach and HR consultant with over 5 years of experience working with job seekers and employers. She holds a degree in human resources management and has worked with leading companies such as Google and Amazon. Rachel is passionate about helping people find fulfilling careers and providing practical advice for navigating the job market.