You may have heard the buzz about travel agents going the way of the dodo—but if that’s true, it’s only a technicality. That’s because their role has evolved so much since your mom’s travel agent that it just doesn’t make sense to call them that anymore. So while the term travel agents might have gone out of style, there’s no better time to consult a travel advisor. The name change is so much more than just rebranding, though—travel professionals have evolved from just booking flights and hotels to become true experts on destinations and planning every aspect of a trip. With all the DIY options out there these days, you don’t go to a travel advisor just to get a plane ticket, but for their knowledge, experience, and industry connections. But if you’re still debating whether to bring a professional on board, consult our handy checklist to find out when you should use a travel advisor—especially if you’re someone who thought they never would.
You’re not sure
where you want
to go.
1. Ready to relax at a resort but not sure about which slice of paradise to make your own? Travel advisors know all the right questions to ask to help you choose a destination that’s the perfect fit for what you have in mind. That’s because they’ve done their homework, personally visiting them to meet local vendors, check out hotels and amenities, and to get the full scope of a place—meaning they’re experts at tailoring a bespoke experience that’s just what you’ve been dreaming about.
You’re fed up
with the glut of
travel information
online.
2. These days there are so many airfare and hotel search engines online that the sheer amount of choice can be overwhelming. A report by the IBM Institute for Business Value found that most travel sites simply aren’t designed for maximum efficiency, and even experienced travelers on average spend 2-5 hours booking their trip online. So sure, take a look at the deals that are out there—but when your head starts to spin, call a travel advisor.
You’re on a
time crunch.
3. If you’re not a card-carrying member of the jet set, you probably only have one or two times per year to travel—and you want to get it right. So when you’re crunched for time, a travel advisor can not only spare you all the hassle of planning and hours spent on hold to arrange an adventure yourself, but will seek out perfectly-timed flights and an itinerary which maximizes your schedule.
You have
a budget.
4. It’s a total myth that travel advisors are a costly luxury. In fact, for the budget-conscious traveler, it can pay to book through an advisor—as much as $500 – $1,000, according to this article from the U.S. News & World Report. Not only do they make a career out of mining information to find you the lowest price, but travel advisors also have access to exclusive packages, meaning they can get more bang for your buck. And while some advisors do charge fees, BookitLyst is a completely free service. (You’ll thank us later.)
You’re planning a
high-risk trip.
5. Adventure travel comes with its risks, but after years in the business a travel advisor knows how to expect the unexpected—and will help you prepare accordingly. Plus, they’re on call to get you through any problem that might happen in the field, from a pick-pocketed passport to a grounded flight.
You’re going on
a honeymoon.
6. Congrats, you’re getting married! Wedding planning can be stressful enough, so save yourself at least one marital headache and leave your honeymoon in a travel advisor’s hands. They’ll make sure you get to experience all the special perks that will turn you and your intended into instant VIPs—so that after you get hitched, your honeymoon goes off without one.
You’re traveling
with a crowd.
7. For coordinating family vacations or corporate travel, travel advisors are indispensable. As the author of this Forbes article points out, “Even the top luxury hotels are notorious for refusing to guarantee connecting rooms in advance for families booking multiple rooms…. When your travel advisor books hundreds of room nights with a high profile luxury hotel each year, the hotel will move heaven and earth to give that advisor’s client– you – guaranteed connecting rooms.” Travel advisors can also often get amazing group rates, plus they’ll keep everything organized so that you’re not stuck herding cats.
You’re going
overseas.
8. Airport security is an annoyance for everyone, but international travel can require even more hoop-jumping. A travel advisor will make sure you have all the necessary documents, visas, and vaccinations in order before you go—and hold on to copies stateside should you run into any trouble.
Everything is
sold out.
9. Didn’t get around to booking your vacation until the last minute? If all you’re seeing is No Vacancy signs, don’t cancel those tickets just yet. During the peak season, many in-demand hotels and restaurants set aside coveted space for valued clients—like your travel advisor. Because of their longstanding relationship with industry insiders, travel advisors can often make the call that gets you a room in that “sold out” hotel or a table at an elite eatery.
You’re getting
off the
beaten path.
10. It may be fairly easy to book-it-yourself when you’re planning a trip to a well-established destination, but travelers going off the beaten path might be left in the dark by a lack of reliable sources. This is a case where a travel advisor’s industry connections and expertise can really come in handy to guide you on the road less traveled.
Dream it, Book it, Live it.
