The Ultimate Stress-Free Vacation: Why Hiring a Travel Agent is the Way to Go

It’s a common question we get asked. “Why should I book with you?” or “Why should I hire a travel agent”? Mostly, I think people ask that because they assume they can just do it themselves cheaper. In some instances, that may be true. But more often, a good travel agent will save you money and time! This post will discuss why hiring a travel agent (like me!) is the way to go.

Why Hiring a Travel Agent is the Way to Go

I would like to share some reasons why I recommend using an experienced travel agent, like me! Some agents specialize in selling only one type of trip, or they simply book travel in order to travel themselves. Additionally, there are some agents who work through multi-level marketing schemes. However, there are also professionals like me who have made a career out of being a travel agent for 30 years now. While I have experience in both leisure and corporate travel, I personally enjoy working with leisure travelers because I value the personal connections I make with clients rather than working in a call center.

Whoever you choose, just make sure they know what they are doing. The best advice is to get a referral. Ask your friends who their travel agent is.

Why should you use an experienced travel agent?

Experience. I have 30 years of it. If you are taking a multi-city vacation through Europe, there are so many pieces to book and coordinate. Not too many people can book that type of trip on their own. I’m very good at what I do!

We choose experienced professionals in just about everything we do. Why not a travel agent? An experienced agent is going to be able to offer suggestions and guide you through the process, as well as make sure all components of your trip are booked correctly.

And your travel agent should love what they do!

What You Are Paying For when Hiring a Travel Agent

Usually, the commission paid to us by the vendor covers everything we do. However, there may be some exceptions that vary depending on your agent. I make sure to inform my clients upfront if there are any fees associated with their trip. Think of it as having your own personal assistant.

We know about extras at hotels or on cruise ships that may not be public knowledge. Some agents even have access to specials that other agents don’t. Sometimes it depends on volume, and other times it’s just connections.

Relationships are key

I have formed friendships with clients over the years and have even traveled with some of them. The clients might be my favorite part of my job. A good travel agent is like having a good banker, investor, or real estate agent. They usually know what you want and how you like to travel (adventure, relaxation, with a group or on your own), and it just makes the whole process easier.

Time and Money Better Spent

I understand that your time is valuable to you. That’s why hiring a travel agent can be a great option to save you time. I am here to do all the legwork for you, leaving you with only the final decision to make. However, I am also here to help you with that decision-making process. When you request a quote from me, I will first ask you several questions to better understand your preferences. These questions may include your budget, the age of any traveling children, your interests, and places you prefer to avoid. By getting to know your preferences, I can narrow down your options and provide you with the best possible choices.

I’m not going to recommend something to you that I wouldn’t be willing to stay at myself. And then there’s always the risk of booking a hotel on your own that doesn’t meet your lifestyle. Adult-only hotels have multiple categories; there are kid-friendly hotels with water parks and teen clubs, and hotels in Europe near a coffee shop we know about.

I Will Show You My Worth

I guess everyone in sales will go through this at some point – proving their worth to a client. When Covid-19 hit, we were the ones our clients counted on to make changes, cancel trips, get refunds, and future travel credits, or just answer their questions. Not everything goes perfectly; it never does. But our clients weren’t alone. Some online agencies closed overnight, leaving their clients stranded.

📍 Let’s Plan Your Next Adventure!

If you’re dreaming of a trip to Mexico or anywhere else in the world, I’d love to help make it happen! As a travel agent with Lake Pointe Travel, I can take the stress out of planning and find the best deals for you. Email me at Sarah@LakePointeTravel.net to start planning! You can also contact me here.

📆Prefer to make an appointment: Check out my schedule here. 

By day, I’m a travel agent and I share our vacations and travel tips here. Stay connected for more travel inspiration!

🌍 Follow my travel adventures:

• 📸 Instagram: @HowMyWorldTravels
• 💬 Join my private Facebook group for exclusive deals, travel tips, and advice: How My World Travels with Sarah

Happy travels!