Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

     If you are like I was, you are really unfamiliar with what a travel agent does and, frankly, why you should even use one. I use to think that using a travel agent meant that I was planning some elaborate trip that was going to cost me 15 years worth of pay (not that I could ever afford something like that). I also use to think only rich people used travel agents. However, that is QUITE  the opposite!
     There are many travel agents that specialize in one particular area, and that may be the only area that they will book. For me, I love all sorts of travel: a weekend get-away to New Orleans, a week long vacation at Disney, or a romantic week in the Caribbean. Because I love it all, I like to help my clients with the smallest trip to a trip of a lifetime. I use multiple resources that are only available to travel agents to help my clients find the best packages and deals. Also, it doesn't cost my clients anything to use my services. So know, you don't have to be rich to use a travel agent.
      With that said, that brings me to my second thought of why someone should even use a travel agent. I can definitely give you 100's of reasons why you should, but I feel like only giving you the pros will not convince you. So, here are some pros and cons for why you should or shouldn't use a travel agent.

      Con #1: You are not completely in control.

This one I can totally relate to. I like to be in control of everything that I can possibly be in control of. That way I know things are done the way I like them. Releasing control is very hard for me. It can be especially hard if you are planning a big trip and want everything to be perfect.

Pro #1: You get to be involved as much as you like. 

When using a travel agent, you still can be in control. For example, I am going to go over every detail possible with you. I will make sure everything is exactly how you like it. But, if you want a trip planned and just want to pay for it and go, I can do that to. I will still share the details with you to make sure you're happy. Either way, you get to spend less time worrying about planning the trip, and just get to prepare to go on the trip. 

Con #2: You may find a better deal on your own.

With the age of the internet, we can learn how to fix a sink, do a beautiful contour, and even plan our own dream vacation. There are multiple travel sights out there to compare prices to make sure you are getting a good deal. You may find something cheaper than a travel agent quoted you. Why not book it on your own? 

Pro #2: A travel agent has access to more resources in less time, therefore, can find you a great deal with personal service.

Yes, you may find a better deal on your own. Just being honest, in the time I have been a travel agent, I have been able to get my clients better deals than they have been able to get on their own. I am not saying it won't happen eventually, but so far, I've really been able to save my clients some money. I also have resources that make planning trips much easier, less time consuming, and frankly, less inexpensive than if you were to plan a trip on your own. You may have found a great deal in 50 websites, but I may can get that same deal or better by just using one. 

Con #3: Can you really trust this person?

So there is local travel agency in the town that you live in. You are going to have to entrust these people with your time, money, and some personal information. This can be scary. If you know you can do it own your own without having to put your information out there, you do. 

Pro #3: You get to establish a relationship with someone for some of the most important times in your life.

First off, I think this can be said for anything, if you do not feel comfortable or feel that you can trust the person, do not use them for any service! However, when you first went to your doctor, you didn't know them very well, but you trusted them. This is a similar situation. You may not know me, but I am sure we can build a relationship to ensure that you will trust me. Also, can you really trust the computer that you are giving all of your information to to plan your trip? When using a travel agent, you get to talk to a real person and not some machine. That should put you a little at ease. 

Con #4: Is everything going to be done correctly?

This can sort of go with the first con. If you are someone that likes to be in control, you want to know that what you are doing is done right. By doing everything yourself, you can recheck all of the information and have all of it in front of you without relying on anyone else. If there is a mess up, you only have yourself to blame. 

Pro #4: Since this is someone's job, they are going to take planning your trip seriously.

Because this is my job and something that I love to do, I am going to make sure that I have done the absolutely best that I can do. Am I perfect? No! But I strive to be in my work. This is one reason that I go over every detail with my clients so that I know they know I am doing my best to make sure everything is done correctly. I want you to be happy, and I want you to use me again. I am going to do my best to make sure your trip is perfect. 

Con #5 Why should you use a travel agent if you only need them to book the trip?

I am one of those that if I can take on the burden, I would rather not have anybody else worry with something. (That's also that control thing.) So why should I even "waste" my time using a travel agent, if I am not going to need them again until another trip or if ever? Let me just book the trip on my own and get it over with. 

Pro #5 You may end up needing help while on the trip or for later on. 

We never want something bad to happen, whether it is a delayed flight or a serious injury. However, these things happen, and when they do, your travel agent is there for you. Part of my responsibility as a travel agent is to also make sure your trip goes smoothly. From the moment you start your drive or board that plane, I want to make sure everything is going the way it's supposed to be. In the case that it doesn't, you do not have to deal with this on your own. As your travel agent, I am going to do everything I can to make sure I can get you to where you are going and to get you safely back home. If you need something while on your trip, I will be available to help you out.  You're not getting rid of me that easily. 

Again, I could give you 100's of reasons for why you should use a travel agent. I can also understand why you wouldn't want to use one. I hope I have at least given you more of an idea of what I do and why I would like to help you. If you are still unsure, feel free to contact me so we can discuss how I can help you. If you are ready to plan a trip, contact me and I will make sure you are satisfied. 

Happy Traveling!