What Are A Travel Agent’s Responsibilities?

Travelers may ask why a travel agent is needed. Consumers can shop around and make their own travel arrangements online, however, the personal attention that a travel agent gives a customer is something you can’t get online. Using a travel agent can improve your travel experience.

A travel agent needs to be knowledgeable of the world, especially popular travel destinations. Knowing those destinations, a travel agent can recommend a destination that will fit the travelers wants and needs. A travel agent can also inform the traveler of local laws, customs, documents required and travel advisories. Travel agents continually increase and refresh their knowledge of destinations and requirements.

One of the duties of a travel agent is to book airline tickets, accommodations, car rentals, tours, cruises, etc. They have access to inventory that you may have missed online. A travel agent also rebooks or makes alternate travel arrangements when needed. A travel agent can rebook your flights while you are on your trip when an unforeseen circumstance happens. In event of bad weather, canceled flights, a travel agent can help you reschedule your flight instead of you going to the airport, or holding for an airline representative, saving you time and money.

Travel agents will not only book your trip, but plan every detail from the time you leave home until you return. They can take care of upgrades, transfers or any special request. These can be done online, but that can get lost in translation. Travel agents have relationships with many companies allowing them to go above and beyond for their customer.

A portrait of Miss Sheila- travel agent instructor at The Travel Academy