frequently asked questions travel agency

135 Questions to Ask a Travel Agent

Embarking on a new adventure can be thrilling, but let’s face it, the nitty-gritty of travel planning can quickly dampen the excitement. That’s where a good travel agent comes in, clutching a goldmine of insider knowledge and travel hacks. But to truly unlock a seamless and personalized experience, you’ve got to ask the right questions.

Whether you’re seeking the most bang for your buck, longing for an itinerary that mirrors your dream, or simply needing the peace of mind that comes with safety nets like insurance and flexible cancellation policies, knowing what to ask can elevate your trip from mediocre to magnificent. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Understanding Travel Agent Services and Fees

• What services do you provide as a travel agent?
• Are there any service fees, and if so, how are they structured?
• Can you outline any benefits of booking through you versus online?
• Do you offer after-hours or emergency assistance?
• What makes your agency unique compared to others?
• How do you stay updated with current travel trends and information?
• Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?
• What are your qualifications and experience in travel planning?
• Do you have any special partnerships or perks with certain providers?
• Are there any memberships or subscriptions that offer additional benefits when I book through you?
• What is the usual response time for inquiries or travel assistance?
• Do you provide personalized travel documentation?
• Are your travel agent services accessible online or only in person?
• How do you handle travel alerts or advisories?
• Can you assist with travel visa and passport services?
• Do you offer price match or price guarantee services?
• Are there additional costs for making changes to a reservation through you?
• Can you itemize all the costs included in my travel quote?
• How transparent are you about commissions or incentives from travel providers?
• Do you have access to exclusive deals that aren’t available to the public?

Detailed Trip Itinerary Planning

• How do you tailor an itinerary according to my preferences and needs?
• Can you help me optimize my travel route to save time and money?
• How do you select the destinations and activities included in my itinerary?
• Are you able to create a balance between sightseeing, leisure, and adventure activities in my itinerary?
• Can you provide local insights and recommendations that aren’t commonly found in guidebooks?
• Is there flexibility for spontaneous activities or changes in the itinerary?
• Do you consider traveler reviews or ratings when planning the itinerary?
• How do you determine the ideal duration of stay in each location?
• What backup plans do you put in place in case of unforeseen circumstances?
• Can you arrange experiences that cater to special interests like culinary arts or wildlife photography?
• Will my itinerary include all transportation between destinations?
• How much free time will I have during the trip?
• Do you include both popular spots and hidden gems in the itinerary?
• Can you incorporate cultural or educational experiences into my trip?
• How do you ensure the safety and suitability of the activities you recommend?
• Do you test or vet the experiences included in my itinerary?
• How do you handle last-minute itinerary requests or changes?
• Can you assist with obtaining tickets or reservations for specific attractions or events?
• Are there any unique transportation options you can include in my itinerary?
• How much involvement can I have in the itinerary planning process?

Cost and Payment Information

• What is the estimated total cost of my intended travel plan?
• Can you provide a detailed breakdown of all the travel expenses?
• What payment options are available through your agency?
• Are there any opportunities for installment payments or layaway plans?
• Do you charge additional fees for international transactions?
• How can I secure the best rates for flights and accommodation?
• What is included in the package cost, and what will be extra?
• Do you offer any group discounts or loyalty rewards?
• Are there any hidden costs that I should be aware of?
• How far in advance do I need to pay for my travel arrangements?
• What currency are your prices quoted in?
• Are your quotes guaranteed for a certain period?
• Can you monitor fare changes and alert me to price drops?
• Is there a difference in cost between various travel seasons?
• Do you provide financial protection for the payments I make?
• Can I expect any additional costs during my travel?
• How do you handle refunds and reimbursements for travel expenses?
• If my trip costs go down after I book, can I get a lower rate?
• How are your exchange rates calculated for foreign travel?
• What are your policies regarding tipping or gratuities for services during the trip?

Accommodation and Amenities

• How do you select accommodations that meet both my budget and comfort needs?
• Can you ensure my accommodation is centrally located to major attractions?
• Are the accommodations you recommend rated for their quality and service?
• Do you have photos or virtual tours of the accommodations available?
• Can you arrange special amenities like pools, gym access, or Wi-Fi?
• Are there any meal plans or dining options included with my accommodation?
• Can you book accommodations that are pet-friendly or offer child-care services?
• What is the check-in/check-out process like at the accommodations you arrange?
• Can you provide options for unique lodgings, like boutique hotels or glamping?
• How close are the accommodations to public transport or rental services?
• Do accommodations have safety measures, like secure parking or 24-hour security?
• Can the accommodation cater to dietary restrictions or special food requests?
• Are there any all-inclusive accommodation options that fit my itinerary?
• How do you handle special requests, like room upgrades or late check-outs?
• What are the cancellation policies for the accommodations you book?
• Are laundry or cleaning services included or available for an extra cost?
• Can you ensure a non-smoking room or area within the accommodation?

Travel Insurance and Safety

• Can you recommend travel insurance options that cover my specific needs?
• What types of scenarios and events does the travel insurance cover?
• How does the insurance policy handle pre-existing medical conditions?
• Can I add extra coverage for high-risk activities like skiing or scuba diving?
• How do I file a claim if something goes wrong during my trip?
• Are there any countries or regions where insurance coverage is limited or unavailable?
• Can the insurance provide assistance with lost luggage or travel documents?
• Do you offer comprehensive health, trip cancellation, and property insurance packages?
• How does the insurance handle emergency evacuations or repatriation?
• Can you detail the process for accessing 24-hour emergency services through the insurance?
• What are the deductibles or out-of-pocket expenses associated with the insurance policy?
• How quickly can insurance coverage be put in place before a trip?
• Are there age restrictions or surcharges for travel insurance policies?
• How do you assess the level of safety of the destinations you recommend?
• Do you provide safety briefings or local emergency contact information?
• How can I stay updated on the safety and security situation of my destinations?
• What assistance do you offer if the political or health climate changes while I’m abroad?
• Can travel insurance cover the cost of quarantine accommodations if necessary?
• How does the insurance deal with trip interruptions or delays?
• Do you provide access to global assistance services or consular help through insurance?

Special Requests and Personalization Options

• Can you help plan a trip that accommodates special needs or disabilities?
• Can you arrange surprise elements for special occasions like anniversaries or proposals?
• Are you able to include volunteer or charity work opportunities within my itinerary?
• How do you handle dietary restrictions or allergies when planning meals or restaurants?
• Can you ensure VIP treatment or exclusive access at hotels or venues?
• Are there language services or guides available for non-English speaking destinations?
• Do you offer options for private tours or experiences to avoid crowds?
• Can you assist with securing reservations at popular or high-end restaurants?
• How can you accommodate a multi-generational family trip with varying interests?
• Are there romantic or honeymoon packages available with special inclusions?
• Can you recommend and book eco-friendly or sustainable travel experiences?
• Are custom or themed travel arrangements possible through your agency?
• How flexible are you with last-minute requests or changes during the trip?
• Are you able to integrate different cultures or educational components into the travel experience?
• How do you cater to unique interests, such as astronomy or history, within the travel plan?
• Can you arrange for meet-and-greeting services at airports or transportation hubs?
• Are there opportunities for unique accommodation experiences, such as overwater bungalows or treehouses?
• How do you incorporate local festivals or events into the travel plan?
• Can you arrange travel that focuses on wellness or relaxation, such as spa retreats?
• How do you personalize travel documentation or trip guides for gift-giving or keepsakes?

Cancellation Policies and Flexibility

• What is your cancellation policy for travel bookings?
• Can you outline any penalties or fees for canceling or changing reservations?
• How far in advance can trips be withdrawn or modified without penalty?
• Is there a difference in cancellation policy for peak season versus off-season travel?
• Can you provide “ Cancel for Any Reason ” travel insurance or policies?
• Are trip deposits refundable, and under what conditions?
• How do you handle airline cancellations or rescheduling?
• What happens if a hotel or tour operator goes out of business before my trip?
• Can I get a refund for prepaid attractions or excursions if they are canceled?
• How flexible are the travel arrangements if I need to extend my stay?
• If I am not satisfied with an aspect of my travel, what recourse do I have?
• What is the process for canceling travel insurance policies?
• Are there flexible payment options that offer greater cancellation flexibility?
• Can I modify the destinations on my itinerary after the initial booking?
• How does the agency handle unexpected closures of attractions or changes in touring availability?
• If I encounter health issues before my trip, what are my options?
• How are refunds processed, and what is the typical timeframe for receiving them?
• Do you offer any guarantees on rebooking rates if I need to cancel my trip?

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you book a trip through a travel agent.

On one hand, travel agents have a wealth of knowledge about destinations and can help you plan a great vacation. They can also take care of all the little details like airport transfers and hotel reservations, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. On the other hand, travel agencies usually charge a fee for their services. Plus, they may not always have the best deals on airline tickets and other travel expenses. So before you book your trip through a travel agency, be sure to compare prices and do your research.

What qualifications should I look for in a travel agent?

When seeking a travel agent, you should consider various qualifications to ensure you work with a knowledgeable and reliable professional. Here are some of the key qualifications to look for:

• Certifications : Look for official credentials from organizations like The Travel Institute or ASTA.
• Specialization : Choose an agent with expertise in our specific travel interests or destinations.
• Experience : Experienced agents often provide better insight and have established industry contacts.
• Industry affiliations : Membership in professional travel associations suggests a commitment to quality and ethical standards.
• Reviews : Positive client reviews and testimonials reflect reliability and service quality.
• Insurance and bonding : Ensure financial protection with agents who carry insurance and bonding.
• Communication skills : Clear communication is critical for personalized service and understanding.
• Problem-solving abilities : The ability to handle unforeseen travel issues effectively is essential.

What should I consider when planning a family trip with a travel agent?

Discuss each family member’s needs and interests, accommodation preferences, dining options, and appropriate activities for all ages to ensure your agent can plan an enjoyable trip for everyone.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your compass for navigating the intricate world of travel planning with a professional. By asking these incisive questions to your travel agent, you’re not just buying a trip; you’re crafting your personal epic tailored to every last detail of your wanderlust.

So go ahead, fire away those questions, and transform those pending vacation days into a well-deserved escape that feels as carefree as a leaf dancing in the wind.

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Your 11 Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions—Answered

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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As experts and media spokespeople, the editors at SmarterTravel get asked a lot of travel questions. How early should you book? Which booking sites have the cheapest fares? What’s the best way to avoid bag fees?

The good news is that we have answers. From pinpointing the best day of the week for booking airfare to selecting the best destination for your next trip, here are solutions to some of your most common travel questions.

How Far in Advance Should I Book?

Truth be told, airfare prices—which fluctuate constantly—are impossible to predict. However, there are a few strategies that will guide you to a good deal and minimize your risk of overpaying.

For domestic travel, you’ll typically find the best fares one to two months before your trip. For international itineraries, you’ll often want to start searching for fares a bit further in advance, especially if your dates are firm or you’re traveling at a busy time of year. Add an extra month or two for peak travel times like holidays or major events. Some destinations, such as Disney World during spring break or popular beach spots in August, require even more advance planning, so do your homework.

To help you figure out when to jump on a fare, set up airfare alerts through sites like Airfarewatchdog (SmarterTravel’s sister site) or smartphone apps like Hopper ( iOS | Android ). You can put in your targeted trip dates and itinerary, and you’ll be notified when the fare drops.

How Can I Find the Best Travel Deal?

We’d love to point you definitively to a single booking site that always has the lowest possible airfares and hotel rates, but, unfortunately, that site doesn’t exist—and shopping around is always required. It’s best to check multiple types of sites before you book, including the provider’s own website as well as online travel agencies (think Expedia and Orbitz ) and metasearch sites (like Kayak and SmarterTravel’s parent company, TripAdvisor ).

To help you find the best sites to check, see the following lists:

• The 12 Best Flight Search Sites for Booking Cheap Airfare
• The 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites
• The 14 Best Car Rental Booking Sites
• The 10 Best Sites to Book a Cruise
• The 8 Best Travel Package Sites for Booking a Cheap Vacation
• The 9 Best Vacation Rental Sites for Travelers

One tip to keep in mind: The more flexible you are, the better the deals will be. Moving your trip a few months from a destination’s peak season to its shoulder season, for example, often means lower prices and smaller crowds. Flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday rather than a Friday or Sunday can also save you money. For more information, see The Best and Worst Days to Fly .

How Can I Avoid Fees?

Yes, travel fees are pervasive and have wormed their way into every facet of travel, including flights, hotels, and rental cars. The good news is that many can be avoided. When it comes to flying, look for airlines that don’t charge fees for common services like baggage: For example, Southwest allows two checked bags for free, and some airlines will waive bag fees for frequent flyers or travelers who carry their branded credit cards. For more ideas, see 7 Smart Ways to Bypass Baggage Fees .

Many hotel fees can be avoided if you simply say no to certain services. In other words, don’t touch the minibar or make in-room calls (buy your own snacks and use your cell phone instead). Other charges, such as resort fees , are trickier. It’s best to find out about the charge in advance and book with another hotel, or ask the hotel manager to remove it—he or she might say no, but it never hurts to ask.

When renting a car, read the fine print. Look for easily avoidable fees like early-return and fuel charges. Also, most agents will pressure you into buying a collision damage waiver (CDW), but you might already have collision coverage through your credit card or your own auto insurance policy. Always check in advance.

What Are My Rights When Your Flight Is Delayed or Canceled?

When you find yourself faced with a flight delay or cancellation, know that your rights vary depending on whether the situation is the airline’s fault (such as a mechanical delay) or due to some uncontrollable outside force (like a hurricane or winter storm ). Every airline’s policy varies, but most state that for delays or cancellations within the airline’s control, passengers are entitled to be rebooked on the next available flight, possibly transferred to another carrier, or to receive a refund for the unused portion of the trip. Some lines will also provide meal vouchers, hotel stays, and ground transportation at their discretion.

When the situation is beyond the airline’s control, a refund is all that most airlines promise. However, for major storms, airlines have set a precedent for preemptively canceling flights in advance so you’re not stranded at the airport, and they will allow you to rebook within a specific time frame without penalty.

To learn more, see Flight-Cancellation Rights: The Ultimate Guide and Flight Delays: What to Do and How to Prevent Them .

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

To buy or not to buy: That is the question when it comes to travel insurance . It all depends on risk and your tolerance for it. In general, if you’re taking a relatively short trip and haven’t paid a fortune for it, you probably don’t need it. Plus, most airlines—and hotels, for that matter—will give you a refund or allow you to rebook when there’s a widespread storm or incident.

However, if you have put down significant nonrefundable deposits, are traveling at a risky time of year (such as hurricane season ), have a potential medical condition, or are traveling to remote places where hospitals are scarce, travel insurance could be a good idea.

If you do opt insurance, make sure you know what’s included in your policy; most are very specific and won’t allow coverage to kick in once a storm is predicted or if you have a preexisting medical condition. You can also buy a policy that will allow you to cancel for any reason, but those usually come with a higher premium.

How Do I Know When a Deal Is Really a Deal?

Sadly, not all travel deals are created equal. And while some are bona fide, others are nothing more than gimmicks, if not downright scams. Your best defense is to take the time to fully research a deal before handing over your credit card number.

First, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable supplier, especially when it comes to tour operators and promoters. If you haven’t heard of the company, check with the Better Business Bureau or United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) to make sure it is sound. Look for online reviews of the company on sites such as TripAdvisor or TrustPilot . Also, always compare prices across multiple suppliers. A deal might look good at first glance, but you may be able to beat the price elsewhere.

When it comes to hotel packages, price out inclusions like gift baskets or spa services separately to determine whether it’s cheaper to go a la carte. For example, many hotels offer individual room rates that are way cheaper than what you’d pay for the room plus the extras in a package. Remember: You can bring your own Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries (likely higher-quality ones, too).

Lastly, always read the fine print, with a particular eye on blackout dates and other restrictions. You don’t want to get a deal that you can’t even use.

How Do I Score an Upgrade?

Everyone wants to vault to the front of the airplane cabin or that penthouse suite in the hotel, but most of us feel that an upgrade is out of reach. Not necessarily so. The best way to get upgraded is to join a loyalty program. While it’s hard for many leisure travelers to accrue enough miles for a free first- or business-class ticket, basic upgrades usually require fewer miles. For hotels and rental cars, points generally add up more quickly and you can get additional free perks just for being a member.

Another way to land a better seat is to look for deals; some airlines will launch short-term sales on premium seats. For more information, see First Class for Free: How to Get an Airline Upgrade .

With hotels, arriving late in the day can increase your chances of a better room, since the hotel might have vacant rooms to fill (and can subsequently open up a cheaper room for another paying customer). Also, at check-in, mention if you are celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or an anniversary. Check out How to Get a Hotel Upgrade for Free to learn more.

At the rental car desk, asking for an upgrade might work, but make sure you’ve weighed your options: A larger car could mean higher gas costs, which can quickly negate any benefit. In any situation, even with the airlines, it never hurts to ask; when you do, dress nicely, be specific with your request, and above all, be polite.

What Can I Bring on the Plane?

This is such a complicated topic that SmarterTravel has a whole airport security FAQ to cover it. But here are the basics: In your carry-on, you can bring a single clear, quart-size plastic bag of liquid and gel items (such as shampoo, insect repellent, and sunscreen) in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less. If you need to bring larger quantities, you can put them in your checked bag—just make sure they’re well sealed to prevent messy spills. Exceptions to this rule include prescription medications, breast milk, and baby formula, which you can carry on in larger amounts.

The TSA has strict rules for items such as scissors, razors, sharp objects, and even wrapped gifts. To learn more, see the FAQ above or visit the TSA’s website .

What Should I Pack?

Speaking of complicated topics … where do we begin? Of course, the answer depends on where you’re going and for how long, but you’ll want to start with SmarterTravel’s Ultimate Packing List , which has you covered with the basics you’ll need for just about any type of trip. If you want more specific advice, consider these lists:

• The Essential Beach Packing List
• The Essential Carry-on Bag Packing List
• The Ultimate Holiday Packing List
• The Ultimate Cruise Packing List
• The Essential International Packing List
• How to Pack for an African Safari
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

You’ll also want to check out Ingenious Packing Tips Every Traveler Should Know , which includes information on how to pack for the TSA’s requirements, tips on saving space, a discussion of whether you should roll or fold your clothes, and clever tips from SmarterTravel readers. Trying to avoid overpacking? See A Traveler’s Guide to Minimalist Packing .

I’m Unhappy with My Seatmate(s) on the Plane. What Can I Do?

SmarterTravel readers often write in with travel questions about airplane seating dilemmas. “I have severe allergies to animals. What are my rights if I am sitting by someone with an animal?” asks one reader.

“I was recently seated next to a large person whose body overhung the armrest and crowded me,” writes another. “What can be done in this situation?”

Generally speaking, your best bet is to approach a flight attendant discreetly and ask if there are any available seats to which you could be moved. In the case of animal allergies, even if no seats are free, the airline staff might be able to find a non-allergic passenger who’s willing to switch with you. Bring up your concerns early—because once the plane has taken off, the flight attendants will have much less flexibility.

For more information, see the following resources:

• What You Need to Know About Flying with a Service or Emotional Support Animal
• Airline Passenger of Size Policies

What Are the Best Travel Destinations, and How Do I Know If They’re Safe?

There’s no single right answer to the first part of this question. It really depends on factors like your personal travel style and when you plan to travel. But there are a few tricks to identifying a great hot spot.

If affordability is a priority, look for destinations with new airline routes or hotels; providers will often release introductory rates at a discount, and you can be among the first to check things out. Additionally, keep an eye out for destinations making a comeback from natural disasters or political unrest; it can take time for tourists to return, even after the place is safe and open for business again, and the low demand can mean great deals for those who are willing to visit.

If you want to go where the excitement is, look for locales with big events, such as major sporting competitions, festivals, and museum openings. Check with the local tourism bureau to see what’s on; you might even stumble upon corresponding deals and packages.

SmarterTravel frequently publishes inspirational lists of places to travel for just about every interest. Check out Top Travel Destinations for 2020 or browse the site’s Destinations section to learn more.

As for safety, your first step is to research your destination on the U.S. State Department’s website . Here you’ll find important travel advisories and information about crime, health concerns, and other safety issues for every country around the world. Pay attention to the details before writing off an entire destination; it may be perfectly safe as long as you steer clear of certain problem areas. Keep an eye on news headlines in the lead-up to your trip so you’re aware of any last-minute issues.

If you have specific concerns, consider posting questions on travel forums such as TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet . Destination experts and locals can often offer up-to-the-minute updates from the ground.

Traveling? Consider Bringing These:

Shop the look.

Sambucus Elderberry Gummies

Weekend Bag

Tea Tree Oil Active Wipes

More from smartertravel:.

• Ultralight Travel: How to Pack Light Every Time
• 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Flight
• The Worst Seats on a Plane (and How to Avoid Them)

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Anne Banas and Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Most Important Questions to Ask Your Travel Agent

Even with an agent, travel is a tricky business! This list of questions to ask a travel agent can help save you a lot of time and headaches later on.

While the internet has revolutionized the way that people plan and book hotels and flights, travel agents and agencies have remained an important part of the travel industry. This is due to the added value that their skills and knowledge can bring to a vacation, especially if you’re trying to book a relatively complex trip such as a multi-lag safari in Africa or a family reunion in Disneyland. Travel agencies can also help you find some great travel deals that are only available to agents which is great if you’re a budget traveler. Remember, this is your hard-earned money and vacation time, and making a list of questions to ask a travel agent can help save you a lot of time and headaches later on.

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Do you charge a fee for your services?

It can sometimes be a little confusing to know how travel agents actually make money. Do they charge a commission or a flat fee? Or do they get a kickback from the products that they sell? This question can begin to feel like the elephant in the room and can even make you start questioning what the travel agent is offering. If this is the case, don’t be shy. Instead, simply ask if there’s a charge for their services. This will help you rest assured that you won’t get hit with an unexpected fee. 

What services do you offer?

Travel agents come in all shapes and sizes, as do the products that they offer! While some offer preset packages, others let you build your own trip. Some also act as travel advisors who can help walk you through the travel planning process from start to finish. By having a good idea of what a travel agent offers, you can take advantage of their strengths and skills to help you plan your dream vacation. 

Can you provide assistance while I am at a destination? 

Every time you travel, you risk something going wrong. Having a travel agent can help make troubleshooting much, much easier when you’re on the road but it’s important to know from the beginning whether or not they can assist you in case of an emergency once the trip has already started. This could mean anything from helping with flight cancellations to advising a medical emergency. Don’t always assume that they will be there to help and be sure to have them tell you what they can and can’t assist with in writing before your trip begins. 

How can I reach you in case of an emergency?

If they tell you that they can assist in an emergency, confirm with them what is the best way to reach them. Keep in mind that the time zone that you’ll be in may be very different than where the agent is based. It’s good to know how you can contact them outside of normal business hours and what their response time will be. This can help you plan accordingly in case anything does happen while you’re on your trip.

What travel destinations do you suggest?

Many people know that they want to go on a vacation but they aren’t entirely sure where exactly they want to go. This is one area where you can make use of the experience and skills of a travel agent. They may know of up and coming to travel destinations that you never even heard of and are perfect for your needs. 

If you already have an idea of where you want to go and this is your first time working with a particular travel agent, this could also be a good way to “test” your travel agent. By asking where they recommend based on the type of trip that you desire, you can see if they are considering your needs and requirements or if they are giving a “generic” destination. This gives you at least a bit of an idea as to how they will be to work with and you can make an educated choice as to whether or not you want to proceed.

Have you traveled there before?

Whether a travel agent suggests a destination to you or you go to them with one already in mind, it’s always a good idea to ask them whether or not they have traveled there before. While some agents know a destination inside and out, others may have only looked at a few pamphlets or sat in on a few information sessions about a place. It’s nearly always better to find someone that has been to a place and understands the nuances of traveling there, particularly if it’s a place that is a bit off the beaten path. 

What does your agency specialize in?

While some travel agencies try to be a jack of all trades, others specialize in particular destinations or types of travel. If you have your heart set on really delving deep into a destination or have very specific activities that you want to do, These types of agencies are often worth spending the extra money with as they are more likely to be able to ensure that you have the experience that you’re hoping for and can help troubleshoot more easily if things don’t work out as they should. 

What is the best time to travel to this destination?

Once you have decided on a destination, double-check that you’re going at a “good” time of year. Is it really hot? Crowded? Hurricane season? A good travel agent should know what the climate will be like in a place and also whether or not it will be overrun with tourists and when is the best time to go. Keep in mind that this is all relative and the best time to go for someone who is looking to spend some time enjoying the sun in Florida may not be the best time for someone who is hoping to score a good deal and avoid the crowds. 

Make sure to dig deep into the answer that the agent gives you and confirm why they think it’s the best time to go. This will help ensure that you’re on the same page. 

Are there any ways that I can save money on the booking?

If a travel agent provides a quote that seems to be way out of your budget, don’t give up right away. Depending on how out of reach the quote is, you may want to see if there’s any way that the quote can be cheaper. They may have included things in the total cost like airport transfers, high-end hotels, activities, etc. You can also ask if there’s a cheaper period when you can travel. Going during the shoulder season rather than the high season can save you a huge amount of money so if your time is flexible, you should consider this. 

You may also want to consider if there’s an alternative neighborhood that you can stay in where accommodation is cheaper. Many travel agencies will try to place people as close to the destination highlights as possible but sometimes staying a bit outside of the center offers a better experience. Think of it this way… imagine staying in an adorable hotel in a residential neighborhood in Rome. You find a charming little restaurant where you have the best pizza on the planet and spend the rest of the night drinking wine in the neighborhood piazza. Now compare this to staying in a big block hotel right near the Rome train station. 

Is a package tour cheaper than creating my own vacation?

Booking a package tour can save you a lot of money… sometimes. Like everything in life, there’s a slight caveat to this and a lot of it depends on your travel style. Some packages may include things like transfer service and five-star hotels. If this isn’t something you’re particularly interested in, you may end up saving quite a bundle if you book everything separately. 

If you still want to use a travel advisor or agent, try to find one that specializes in that region or country. They are likely to know the best restaurants, hotels, etc, and can likely help you save even more money while having an even better trip than you would have had as part of a package tour!

Is there a price match guarantee?

If the cost of the airfare or the hotels happens to go down after you have confirmed your trip, some travel agents may offer a price match guarantee if the bookings were confirmed within a certain time period. While it isn’t always the case, it’s worth asking just in case. Bear in mind that this may not be very easy to figure out if you have booked a package that includes a variety of tickets (flights, hotels, activities) over an extended period but it may save you a lot of money if your booking is not complex.

What is your cancellation policy?

Before you pay for anything, it’s very important to always check what the cancellation policy is. If the policy is very strict or if the deposit seems inordinately high, see if you can have this reduced. Travel plans change all the time so there must be some degree of flexibility built in. 

If the itinerary includes flights, hotels, and activities, always check to see what happens if one of these ends up getting canceled. For example, if your flight is canceled, what does that mean for your hotel or activity bookings? If you’re traveling during high season and your hotel reservation ends up getting canceled unexpectedly, what other options do you have? 

What are the travel documents that I need for this trip?

Depending on where you’re from and where you’re going, you may need to have a visa to travel to a destination. You may also need to fill out health forms. Your travel agent should be able to inform you exactly what you need to travel to a country so don’t forget to ask this both well before the trip starts and also once again right before your departure date. 

Even though the worst of the COVID pandemic seems to be over, entry requirements to a country can still change quickly and you don’t want to be caught unaware and unable to board your flight because you don’t have the right documentation. 

Are there any additional costs that I need to be aware of?

Once you have received a quote from a travel agency, always ask if there are any additional costs that you need to be aware of. Often, things like visas, inbound flight airfare, and meals won’t be included in the total price and will need to be calculated separately. This usually happens because the prices can be very different based on where someone’s departure point is. This means that you can potentially save money by trying different airports and dates, giving you the flexibility of being able to cut costs without having to rely on the travel agency to do it on your behalf.

Also, ask whether or not the tour includes admission fees to museums and historic sites as these can add up quickly depending on the location. 

How can I pay for the trip?

Depending on where the travel agency is based, you may not be able to pay by credit card. If this is the case, you may have to send money through another payment platform such as Wise or Western Union . In these situations, the transaction fees are usually paid by the guest rather than the agent so make sure to calculate these into your overall trip costs as they can add a substantial amount to a high-priced vacation. 

Do I need travel insurance?

Normally, the answer to this question is always yes. Some credit card companies offer insurance if you book at least a portion of the trip with your card. However, you may need to purchase supplemental insurance based on the destination and the activities that you’ll be doing. Some countries may even require you to have a certain insurance policy before they will allow you to enter the country. 

Are there any security issues to be aware of?

We live in a world where the geopolitical situation between many countries can be a bit shaky and where things can change at the drop of a hat. Not many people expected Sri Lanka to become unstable so quickly nor did most people believe that there would be a war between Russia and Ukraine. If you plan on traveling to some of the more off-beat destinations, it’s prudent to ask your travel agent whether or not any security issues may worsen before you go. 

Time to start packing!

We hope that this guide has given you an idea of the “right questions” to ask when booking your dream vacation through a travel agency. If you feel a little like they are a bit like interview questions, don’t worry. Booking travel is their job and they should be prepared to answer them thoroughly to ensure that they are meeting a client’s needs.

If you’re still in the beginning stages of your trip planning or are thinking of adding a few days to a trip pre or post-tour, don’t forget to check out the Let’s Roam app . It’s full of great user-generated tips and tricks that can help you find some of the best places to visit in a destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you ask the right questions , travel agents can help you save a ton of money when you travel and can help you find the perfect vacation destination.

Before you book anything with a travel agent , it is important to ask questions about the destination, their services, and their experience. This can help ensure you book a trip that’s right for you.

Travel agents can be extremely useful but’s is important to do some research on your own as well. Consider using an app like Let’s Roam to find out more about your chosen destination.

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What are the most surreal places to visit?

Some of the strangest places on earth are also the most sublime : from the UFO-like dragon's blood trees in Yemen to a rainbow-colored hot spring in Yellowstone to a bridge in Germany that looks like a leftover prop from Lord of the Rings.

Why do you need to turn off all your electronic devices before an airplane takes off and lands?

We've been taught to fear the interference of our portable devices and an airplane's sensitive electronic systems. And despite being told to turn off our darn phones, four out of ten passengers, it seems, disregard these warnings , since there's little hard evidence behind claims that electromagnetic emissions from devices can muddle airplane computers. Still, there's ample anecdotal corroboration, like the flight where a 30-degree navigation error was rectified simply by asking a passenger to turn off a portable DVD player. The issue is still being debated, so if in doubt, flick that Off switch. We might, eventually, long for the days when a chatty seatmate couldn’t make an hour-long phone call.

Do you have to be rich to travel the world?

The beauty of travel is that it’s accessible to everyone, in some form. You don't have to go far to experience a new culture. Plus there are several ways to make most flights affordable, whether by being flexible , searching on new websites like Skypicker and Fareness , or just by planning ahead. Know the best time to book a flight : 57 days in advance for domestic flights, 117 for international. Then again, you could just make traveling the world your 9-to-5.

What are some common items savvy travelers bring with them (that less-savvy travelers don’t)?

Don’t forget a small power strip—ideal for sharing a crowded outlet in an airport, and a simple way to keep all devices close by once at a hotel. (Combine that with a Zolt —which powers a laptop and two devices with a charger the size of a lipstick—and it’s even handier.) Keep a photograph of your luggage and passport on your smartphone; lose either of them, and you’ll be grateful for the reference. Pack a scarf—always. And since calling Nespresso coffee is an insult to baristas everywhere, the best in-room alternate is the Aeropress , a nifty gizmo that’s portable, light, and makes killer morning joe almost anywhere.

Mark Ellwood

Tom Vanderbilt

Shana Clarke

What’s it really like to be a travel writer?

"For every beautiful beach hideaway, there’s been a missed flight or delay; for every delicious meal, a nasty case of 'Delhi belly," says Traveler contributing editor Krisanne Fordham in her story on this very topic . In short: Traveling for a living is equal parts rewarding and challenging, satisfying and smelly. It teaches you to live—not linger, but really live—outside your comfort zone, to always pack a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, and to never check your bag again.

What are some things airline pilots won’t tell you?

There’s no better Bible of in-flight secrets than Air Babylon , a rollicking romp through 24 hours at an airport compiling anonymous tell-alls from a raft of staff. One sample tidbit: Aviation law decrees that after an onboard death (more common than you’d imagine), planes must land at the nearest airport. No airline wants to pay fines for being delayed, so no one is officially declared dead on board until the plane is landing at its destination.

Where are the best places to travel alone?

Well, we certainly don't recommend Tahiti, where there's an all-but-constant reminder at every juncture that you are alone , a sad friendless figure lurking amid the glowing honeymooners. There are a few places, though, where visiting solo is a bonus, not a burden: notably cruises, yoga retreats, and treks across Europe.

Who makes the best travel bags?

There’s more to in-flight baggage than a boring black rollaboard. Here are some ideas for every kind of trip , including a dapper retro case from Globetrotter worthy of David Livingstone .

Is India a good travel destination?

One of the best in the world, with a vast variety of destinations clustered together in a single country, from the Miami-esque glitz of Mumbai to the Raj-era holdovers in Kolkata, the parched landscapes and Tuscany-like city states in Rajasthan or the quiet backwaters of Kerala. Here’s some inspiration for planning the perfect first-timer’s trip , or you can pore over the site for our India-based sister magazine.

How do you pack a suit?

Don’t wear that suit if you want it to arrive wrinkle-free. Instead, heed the advice of our style editor, Jayna Maleri: "Hold your jacket in front of you, with the front facing you, and fold length-wise in half away from you (so the buttons are on the fold and the shoulders are touching). Then carefully turn one shoulder inside out, and wrap it over the other shoulder (you'll know you're on the right track if the lining is now on the outside). Then fold the jacket one more time, in half width-wise. Fold your trousers carefully in half (use their natural crease as your guide), then place the folded jacket on top of them, near the knees. Fold the pants carefully around the jacket, and pack the bundle in the bottom of your luggage. Follow these steps and we promise, it won’t need a frantic steaming in the hotel shower."

What’s the best way to sleep on a plane?

Some seasoned travelers might swear by that knockout cocktail known as an Ambientini (a sleeping pill with a vodka chaser). There are better, safer ways , though—including pre-flight exercise and a few drops of lavender essential oil.

What are some of the best travel locations that most people have not heard of?

We’re all keen to explore countries and destinations that are unspoiled or unexpected, even if we’re probably still subconsciously following trends. ( This year , Myanmar, Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, and Sri Lanka are some of our planned far-flung getaways.) But we'd also like to reframe this question: What are some of the best destinations you haven't heard of in well-known, heavily trafficked cities? Paris, perhaps, or London? Consider somewhere reasonably central, but slightly under the radar—say, Canal St. Martin in Paris and Shoreditch in London. They're easy to reach and a offer a wonderful "wow"moment of discovery.

What are the best airport hacks?

Download the GateGuru app before your next trip: It shows maps and amenities for any terminal, so you can better plan where to eat lunch or whether you can arrive early for a quick manicure. Don't forget that Zolt charger we mentioned earlier, so your phone doesn't die before takeoff. And, of course, sign up for Global Entry.

If I visit your country, what’s the one meal I shouldn’t miss?

It’s the same answer everywhere: breakfast. No meal is more distinctive or diverse. While sandwiches for lunch might be a global go-to, breakfast is still gloriously localized, whether you're eating bird’s nest–like pancakes filled with spicy curry in Sri Lanka or flaky, just-baked croissants in France. In Russia, however, it’s probably best just to skip it.

How do you get a flight upgrade?

The days of relying on an amenable attitude and a smile to score a cushy seat are, sadly, over. But some strategies still work : First, fly often and use miles whenever you can. And never underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned complaint when an airline overbooks your flight.

What’s it like to quit your job, grab a backpack, and travel the world?

Tons of people dream about leaving their jobs to travel, and while that semi-permanent vacation can often be exactly what you've imagined, you're guaranteed to encounter a few surprises—not all of them pleasant. Here's the truth—and the best way to prepare yourself—from a woman who did it .

NYC or San Fran?

As New Yorkers, we're biased in favor of bagels, de Blasio and the Bronx (and it seems like our readers agree ). We’ll admit it, though: You can spend a killer long weekend in Manhattan or the Bay Area .

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve ever met on a plane?

We can’t match the experience of a guy who met his wife on a plane, but we’ve encountered chatty ex-congressmen keen to tell the real-life story behind a blockbuster movie. And if you're lucky, you get to sit next to Bill Murray. Then again, the most interesting people aren’t necessarily fellow passengers but the crew: wedged onto a jump seat, staring straight at you, it’s easy enough to strike up casual chatter. We’ll never forget the veteran ex-Pan Ammer who regaled us on and off for an entire flight with stories. It was like a trip to aviation’s Golden Age rather than to California.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?

They’re both a boon to frequent travelers but we’re firm fans of Global Entry , which costs only $15 more than TSA PreCheck and will likely automatically generate the latter most times you check in for a domestic flight.

What’s the best city in the world?

We'll defer to the best experts—our readers. In this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards , the best cities in the world include Budapest and Florence, while stateside, New York is the top big city and the best small city is Charleston, S.C., a long-time favorite.

Which airline is best?

According to our readers, internationally, it remains the perennially beloved Singapore Airlines. Meanwhile, Virgin America has been deemed the best domestic carrier ever since it launched in 2007.

What are the most beautiful beaches in the world?

Antigua may claim to have 365 beaches, one each for every day of the year, but other strips of sand rival the Caribbean island for sheer beauty (we’ll take quality over quantity any time). Here are some suggestions, from an overlooked island in the Philippines to a beach made up of jet black sand in Hawaii.

What are the most beautiful places in the world?

Beauty may be subjective, but who would argue against any of these 50 choices , whether Yemen’s futuristic forest of dragon’s blood trees or the Blue City of Jodhpur?

What are the best apps for travel?

By far the best transit guide ( RIP HopStop ) is CityMapper . It's free, and offers real-time directions via public transport, on foot, or by car plus a plethora of nifty bonuses for a selection of major world cities, from Tokyo to London, New York and even Hamburg. Even if you’re not wondering whether the inbound aircraft will make it on time for your flight, there’s a wondrous joy to watching the crowded skies via another free app, FlightRadar24 . LoungeBuddy (also free) helps with trips to unfamiliar destinations, allowing you to verify what status or access you might have to a refreshment oasis at the airport. We’ve used Postagram several times to send cards from places, like Russia, where they’re hard to find—the app is free and stateside delivery of that personalized keepsake costs just 99 cents apiece.

Where should I go now?

Year-end is full of listicles recommending must-sees for the year ahead—and we’re no exception . Head to Sri Lanka, Colombia, Miami, and yes, back to Paris.

Frequently Asked Questions

A travel agent is your go-to expert for planning the perfect trip, from choosing destinations to budgeting and scheduling. With limited vacation time, their expertise ensures you make the most of every moment.

When you book with Guide Me Away, you gain peace of mind. Our experts handle everything from flights and hotels to itinerary planning and transportation. Plus, we offer exclusive deals and wholesale prices, saving you money on your travels.

Guide Me Away, led by certified travel experts, offers personalized travel experiences. With over 15 years of industry experience, we provide insider knowledge,unlocking exclusive deals for you through our partners. LGBTQIA+-friendly packages, and multilingual support. Join thousands of happy travelers and book your dream vacation with us today!

Even though we are based out of Vancouver, we help travelers in both Canada and the United States plan their dream vacation.

We have travel experts that live in the United States as well. 

rest assured that our team stays updated on all travel policies, including visa requirements, travel insurance, restrictions, and passport rules.

No, it does not cost money to get a quote from Guide Me Away. Simply fill out our online form or give us a call, and one of our travel agents will be happy to provide you with a free quote for your trip. We look forward to helping you plan the perfect vacation!

Our travel agency doesn’t charge extra fees. We collaborate with diverse suppliers and offer exclusive deals to our clients. Through our bookings, we earn commission, often passing on savings  to our clients due to wholesale pricing. We handle reservations for major cruise lines, resorts, tours, hotels, and more.

We happily arrange travel bookings for clients worldwide. Regardless of your needs or dietary restrictions, we strive to ensure a pleasant experience. With our extensive knowledge of our destinations, booking a trip with us means you’re in capable hands. Our services are available in Hebrew, Farsi, French, and English, making it easy to reach out with any questions about our offerings.

To set up a consultation with Guide Me Away’s travel expert, you can contact us directly via phone, Toll-free: (833) 553-4119 or Local (Canada) : (778) 655-5135 or email us at [email protected]. You can even reach us on Whatsapp at (add 833 553-4119).

Alternatively, you may want to visit our website and fill out an online form , providing your contact information and any details about your travel needs. Once you submit this information, a travel agent will be in touch to discuss your trip requirements and work with you to create a personalized itinerary that meets your needs and budget.

Whatever method you choose, be sure to do so well in advance of when you plan on traveling, as good travel agents tend to book up quickly during peak travel periods.

Yes, we book group travel all the time! We specialize in helping groups of all sizes plan their dream trips. From family reunions to corporate retreats, we can take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your time away.

Yes. We highly recommend travel protection, it’s important to protect your trip investment and loved ones. We will offer you the best option for your vacation.

You can book your trip with us at any time. We are available to help you plan your next adventure, and we offer a wide range of services, including flight and hotel bookings, tours and activities, and much more. So whether you are planning a  last-minute getaway or a long-awaited vacation, we can help you make it happen.

Yes! We’ll work with you to select the most appropriate accommodation and transportation choices for your needs.

Guide Me Away’s CEO Lia Hershkovitz is a part of the Gay community herself, and we pride ourselves to be inclusive travel agency, and we are committed to helping all travelers of all sexualities plan their perfect trip.

No matter where you want to go or what you want to do. We will make sureyou are safe and have a fantastic time.

Yes, we will be available to answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have. Before, on and after your trip. You can get in touch with us anytime. We are committed to providing the best possible service and helping our clients create memorable vacations that they will always remember. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Being a travel agent is something that, naturally, comes with a lot of questions. Here are a few of our most commonly asked questions about working with a travel agent. We're here to set your mind at ease, if you don't see your question here, send us an email , we love to talk to you!

How do travel agents get paid? will I be charged extra or will my accommodations have an extra fee?

We are paid by the resorts, we do not charge a service fee.  

Many resorts have price parity, the cost is same whether you book through us, direct with the resort, or with an online booking engine.  

The difference between using a travel agent is that we help you plan a stress-free vacation without the hassle of going it alone. 

Why should I book with you instead of an online booking site, or direct with a resort?

With us, you get exceptional personal assistance before, during, and after your vacation. 

Budget is important and we strive to get your dream vacation within the budget you've set for it. There's no pressure to go above and beyond what you're comfortable with. You can't enjoy your vacation when you're stressed out about paying for it. 

We provide honest advice about all resorts and destinations to help you choose the perfect resort for you . 

You also benefit from our extensive personal connections which carry a certain gravitas when needing anything addressed. We have an easier time getting you perks (like getting your room upgraded)—it's easier for us to get a "yes" because we work with them often.

We also arm you with your own personal 1-800 call number to call and reach us if you need something while you're away. You won't get that from a travel site. 

Will I pay more for vacation if I book through you than an online booking site?

No. We have access to all the same pricing for resorts as the online booking sites do and we can price-match online booking engine pricing when comparing apples to apples. 

In many cases, we can find discounts and other promotional offerings that are not offered to the general public.

What important information should I have thought through before contacting you out?

Ideally you should set a budget and share it with us, so that we can give you a realistic, fun, and memorable itinerary for a price you are comfortable with.

Do I have to pay you up front for my vacation?

No! The deposit requirements are set by the resorts and the tour operators we book through. Deposit rates vary based on the resort or package you select, and the time you are traveling.  

The deposit is made via Susan Peavey Travel directly with the resort or tour operator. At no time does Susan Peavey Travel ever charge your credit card. This way, you are assured that your deposit is applied directly to your vacation at the time of booking. 

Most vacation packages require that you pay the balance 45 days prior to your arrival. Again, that payment is made directly to the supplier.

I hear horror stories all the time about Travel Agencies that went out of business, and people lost their vacations... 

What guarantees do i have doing business with you.

Because you don't pay Susan Peavey Travel for your vacation, their is no risk of losing your vacation through us. 

When making your reservations, you provide us with your credit card information for booking. In turn, we provide that information to the vacation vendors (resorts, airlines, etc.). They charge your card. 

This way, you are assured that every payment you make towards your vacation is applied directly to your reservation.

What is Susan Peavey Travel’s greatest strength?

The agents in our office work as a team. Each agent has their specialty area, ie: Disney, Cruising, All-Inclusive, Destination Weddings, Luxury Travel.

We work together as a team with the client to ensure our customers have the best information and resources before, during, and after their vacation.  

All of the agents are familiar with Susan Peavey Travel clients' vacation ensuring there's always someone available to assist you.

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Best Online Travel Agencies

Booking.com is our top choice for making your trip arrangements

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Planning a trip can be easier through an online travel agency than if you handle each aspect of the planning separately. You can book hotels, air travel, rental cars, and more through a single site, and booking everything together sometimes results in discounts. By inputting a destination, a range of dates, and other preferences, you will see a list of options for each aspect of travel.

The best online travel agencies offer options from the largest number of airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, and more. Look for sites that offer discounts for combining reservations for different aspects of your trip. For example, the best sites will have lower rates if you book both plane tickets and a hotel through their services. The best sites also provide reviews from customers who actually have booked through the service. These are our top picks.

• Best Overall: Booking.com
• Best Budget: Skyscanner
• Best Price Predictor: Hopper
• Most Innovative: Kiwi.com
• Best for Eco-Conscious: Kind Traveler
• Best for Social Impact: I Like Local
• Best for Design-Forward Homestays: Plum Guide
• Our Top Picks
• Booking.com

Kind Traveler

I Like Local

• See More (4)

Final Verdict

Frequently asked questions, methodology, best overall : booking.com.

 Booking.com

This industry leader offers one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms on the Internet.

Lots of options to choose from

Interface is easy to use

Numerous filters to customize your search

Tricky to tell whether changes/cancellations can be made with Booking.com or the vendor directly

Booking.com was founded in 1996 and has grown into an industry leader that stands out for being one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms out there. From one website, you can compare and book accommodations, flights (including one-way and multi-city flights), sightseeing activities, and even airport taxis. The website lists more than 28 million accommodation options, from hotels, hostels, and B&Bs to vacation homes and luxury resorts—you can browse more choices per destination on Booking.com than other online travel agencies. The website also performs well on cost and typically returns lower-than-average prices for flights and hotels. 

Booking.com's interface is also easy to use. On the home page, search for a hotel by entering your chosen destination and dates. Then, use the extensive list of filters—such as price range and distance from the city center—to narrow the results down and find the best fit. You can also search for a specific hotel, or seek inspiration by clicking through options grouped by destination or property type or by topic such as the country’s best Michelin-starred hotel restaurants or the top cities for vegan travelers. The flights, car rental, and other tabs are just as intuitive. 

Best Budget : Skyscanner

 Skyscanner

You can compare prices across airlines, hotels, and car rentals.

Simple interface

Option to toggle searches between specific dates or by monthly calendars

Search Everywhere button is great for spontaneous planners

Extra clicks are required to make a final purchase

Must read fine print for changes/cancellations—may need to deal directly with the vendor

Ads on the sidebar can be distracting

Find deals on airfare, hotels, and car rentals with an aggregator site like Skyscanner , which uses a metasearch engine to compare prices from all online travel agencies and the airline, hotel, or car rental company in question. Run searches with fixed dates, opt to compare airfare prices month to month, or click “Cheapest Month.” Searches also include options for nearby airports or non-stop flights only. With hotel searches, you can choose to select only from properties with free cancellation, a cleanliness rating of 4.5/5 or higher, or 3- or 4-starred hotels only. Car rental searches include an option to select “return car to different location.”

Once you’ve found the best rate, click on the link to be redirected to the third-party site to make your booking. Feeling spontaneous? The Search Everywhere button on the homepage offers a list of the cheapest flight deals for destinations both locally and across the world—just plug in your departure airport first.

Best Price Predictor : Hopper

The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting when flights and hotel rates will be cheapest.

Color-coded system makes it easy to determine cheapest days to buy

App is easy to use

Option to track flights and receive alerts when the best time to buy arises

Some have mentioned the app functions better as a research tool than a booking tool

Unclear whether Hopper will price match if you find a cheaper flight elsewhere

Hopper is a travel app available on iOS and Android that aims to help travelers save on airfare by usng historical data and their own algorithm to predict when flights will be cheapest. Just type in where and when you’d like to fly and Hopper will present you with a color-coded pricing calendar indicating how much tickets are likely to cost. (Green is the least expensive, then yellow, orange, and red for most expensive.) Hopper will also recommend you either buy now or wait, or you can choose to watch a trip and receive notifications on the best time to buy. In addition, the app has expanded to offer hotel and car rental price predictions, too.

Some newer features since the app’s inception in 2009 include an option to freeze a price for a limited time—for an extra fee—as well as exclusive app-only discounts. Hopper is free to download, and you can choose to book directly through the app, though some users mentioned they use Hopper as more of a research tool before booking directly with the airline or hotel. The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting flight rates up to a year ahead.

Most Innovative : Kiwi.com

This metasearch engine scours the web to piece together the ideal itinerary using planes, trains, buses, and more.

Creative itineraries get you where you need to go, especially if you’ve got a multi-stop trip

Kiwi Guarantee offers rebooking or cancellation protections

Nomad option appeals to travelers with a lot of flexibility

Creative itineraries mean you may not fly out of the same airport you flew into

Kiwi Guarantee has an additional fee

Charges all-in-one fee for booking flights, trains, buses (though you can always purchase a la carte)

Travelers planning multi-city destinations and seeking a bargain, as well as those looking to take planes, trains, and automobiles to get there, might consider Kiwi . Kiwi is a metasearch engine that scours and pieces together itineraries from various airlines (even if they don’t have a codeshare agreement), considers multiple airports (even if your arrival airport is different from departure), and offers booking options, whether you’re looking at very specific dates or more general ones (up to 60 nights).

Some will find the ability to make multiple bookings for a particular trip more convenient than going at it manually several different times, though note that you must opt into the Kiwi Guarantee program to access rebooking and refund protections should your reservation change or be canceled. Kiwi’s Nomad option allows you to plug in a bunch of destinations you’d like to visit and the length of your intended stay, and the website will churn out the most affordable itineraries for review.

Best for Eco-Conscious : Kind Traveler

A give-and-get business model means booking accommodations with exclusive perks, a donation to environmental organizations, and more.

All participating hotels include a local give-back component

Exclusive savings and perks

Participating hotels are located in some of the most beautiful places in the world

Inventory is much smaller compared to other booking platforms

Some of the amenities mentioned are based on availability only

In 2022, Kind Traveler (an online trave agency focused on hotel bookings) announced an increase in environmentally and socially conscious hotels, charity donations, voluntourism opportunities, and additional perks like waived resort fees or a welcome amenity.

Unlock exclusive hotel rates and perks from participating Kind Traveler hotels with a minimum $10/night minimum donation to a local charity. For example, stay at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives and receive up to $33 off the nightly rate and perks such as a food and beverage credit and an Earth Lab or Alchemy Bar workshop when you make a donation to Manta Trust. The organization funds coastal research to protect the island nation’s large yet fragile population of reef mantas.

Select from more than 140 participating hotels from the Hawaiian Islands to Bozeman, Montana, and the Maldives. Charities include wildlife, human rights, arts, education, and environmental preservation organizations.

Best for Social Impact : I Like Local

Choose from a host of travel experiences with the peace of mind that 100 percent of the cost goes directly to local partners.

Social impact mission woven into organization’s business model

Immersive experiences led by local guides

Range of experiences offered

May not be best fit for those seeking upscale, luxury experiences and stays

Can’t sort experiences by a list of countries (though an interactive map is available)

No experiences outside of Africa and Asia

For an online travel agency with a booking platform designed to route dollars spent directly to the communities travelers intend to visit, consider I Like Local . Visit the website to browse a host of travel experiences in countries including Indonesia, Kenya, and Cambodia. Experiences include homestays and farmstays as well as wellness and culturally oriented experiences—from cooking and cycling tours to weaving classes.

To search for an experience, select from drop-down items like travel dates and experience categories, or view a global map and click on a country to view experiences that way.

The platform got its start in 2014 and has grown to 4,000 local hosts across nearly 20 countries. As a social impact organization, 100 percent of each booking fee goes to local hosts. To date, 16,000 travelers have booked with I Like Local.

Best for Design-Forward Homestays : Plum Guide

Browse and book seriously vetted, design-forward vacation homes.

Highly curated inventory of vacation rentals across the world

Design-forward

Thorough vetting process

Does not publish guest reviews

Other platforms have homes available across more destinations

When it comes to booking a vacation home, serviced apartment, or condo, travelers are spoiled for choice. Plum Guide is an online travel agency that specializes in accommodations—though not just any home makes its directory. The company claims that each potential home listed on its site must jump through 150 hoops to be included, from internet speed and mattress and pillow quality to the showers’ water pressure and the home’s proximity to dining, shopping, and attractions.

Search by a featured collection on the website such as “ pet-friendly homes ” or “one-of-a-kind homes in Palm Springs.” Scroll to the bottom of its homepage to view its top destinations, as well as a list of all destinations where Plum Guide homes are available, including Barbados, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, the U.S., and Turkey. Note: From the top right-hand corner of the site, use the dropdown menu to select currency of choice.

As long as you know what you value most out of your travel experience—such as affordability, social impact, or luxe accommodations—there’s an online travel agency to help plan your next trip. Be sure to read the fine print, as some agencies are third-party websites and not direct vendors. If you're not sure where to start, Booking.com is your best bet for a smooth user experience and hard-to-beat offers on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.

What Is the Biggest Travel Agency?

Our choice for best overall, Booking.com, is known as an industry leader with listings for all major hotels, airlines, car rental companies, and more. It boasts more choices for accommodations per destination than any other site, and we found its interface to be user-friendly.

Are Online Travel Agencies Worth It?

This depends on your needs and priorities. The best online travel agencies certainly can save time by booking everything all at once. However, if you're someone who is good at haggling and enjoys the details of planning a trip, you might be able to find better deals by reaching out to hotels or other destinations and speaking to someone personally.

Is It Cheaper to Book Online Than With a Travel Agent?

Not always. A travel agent you know and trust should have the experience and connections to find deals that can match or surpass what you'll find online. Additionally, if something goes wrong, travel agents provide you with an actual person you can use as an advocate to correct the problem . But if you don't have access to a good travel agent, online sites still provide plenty of ways to streamline planning and save money .

We considered dozens of online travel agencies and narrowed down the options based on user experience, volume and quality of inventory, unique offerings and specials, and customer reviews. We also assessed travel companies’ environmentally and socially conscious policies.

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FAQs of Working with a Travel Agent

Why use a Travel Agent?

When I meet new people and tell them that I work as a travel professional, there are often a lot of questions to come up. From asking “Do travel agents still exist?” to hearing stories of vacation disasters that were easily preventable, to those who generally aren’t sure why it’s beneficial to use a travel agent. I’ve heard it all.

What I have realized is that there are a lot of misconceptions about working with a travel professional, and I’d like to set the record straight! Here are just a few of the questions, and misconceptions I hear most often …

Why use a Travel Agent? Do travel agents still exist? Can’t I do it all myself online?

The internet has brought all kinds of fantastic information right to our fingertips, and for the most part, that can be an awesome thing… but sometimes you still need a professional!

It may sound crazy to say, but I feel like the internet is part of the reason why travel professionals are not only still relevant, but can make the difference between a plain vanilla vacation and a swoon-worthy dream vacation.

It’s easy to fall into information overwhelm or to discover too late that the information you relied on when planning your trip is hopelessly outdated and just plain wrong. Travel professionals know better!

We have a saying among travel experts… the internet is for looking , but travel agents are for booking .

Doing some homework online is a great place to start but working with a travel professional to plan all of the details and get your vacation booked is the best of both worlds. It will save you hours and hours spent sorting through info online and will make sure that you are getting the best value for your vacation dollars.

It’s sort of like the difference between using Web MD or going to visit your doctor. The information online is a good start, but you need a professional to truly get the best advice.

When does it make sense to use a travel professional?

All trips are not created equal and yes, there are times when it may make sense to do it yourself.

Are you planning to go to your cousin’s wedding in Dallas and all you need is a hotel room near the ceremony and reception (no activities, dining recommendations, or other travel arrangements required)? That sounds like the perfect time to turn to the internet!

Planning to spend two weeks touring London and Paris this summer and you’ve never been there before? That calls for a professional! Someone who can direct you to the best places to stay, the “can’t miss” dining locations the locals love, arrange private tours without the long lines and crowds to the must-see attractions, and make sure that your time (and money!) are spent experiencing the “best of the best” while you are there .

Think of it this way… when you are planning a Saturday spent running errands and maybe seeing a movie at the local cinema, you do your hair and makeup yourself. But if you are invited to a black-tie event or special occasion, you’ll plan on having your hairdresser do something special for you and may even book an appointment with a makeup artist to be sure you are looking your best, right?

It’s the same with travel plans. When all you need are the basics, going the do-it-yourself route is fine, but for something special… you’ll have a better experience working with a professional!

You may even find that you enjoy the extra attention to detail and service you receive from a trusted travel expert so much that you allow him or her to take care of all of your travel planning, no matter how simple it seems!

Do travel agents have access to things that I don’t? Sold out events… better rates at beautiful hotels… airline tickets I can’t find online?

The answer to this one is yes… and no.

Travel professionals develop relationships within the industry that can often open doors that, at first glance, may appear to be closed. They may be able to find tickets to a sold-out event… but don’t wait till the last minute and expect those tickets at rock-bottom prices!

Through our partnerships, we often have “buying power” that an individual consumer can’t match. Sometimes that means better rates at the resort you are interested in, sometimes the price may be the same, but we can get access to upgrades or included amenities that are not available to the general public!

Quite often we can get our clients options like room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, room credits, free transportation or other “extras” all for the same price you would have paid if you booked it yourself.

It’s crucial to understand travel agents don’t own resorts, entertainment venues, cruise ships, or airplanes. They sell available inventory (rooms, tickets, spaces on an excursion, etc.), but they can’t create new inventory if it doesn’t exist. If your heart is set on an overwater bungalow at a resort that only has 20 available, or orchestra seats to see Hamilton on your anniversary, it’s always best to plan well in advance and give your travel professional time to pull all the available strings in your favor!

Why use a travel agent? We have a saying among travel experts… the internet is for looking , but travel agents are for booking .

What happens if something goes wrong? Does having a travel agent mean I can’t get things fixed right away?

Quite the contrary! When things go wrong, having a travel professional means having an advocate in your corner to help get things sorted out as quickly as possible.

We are often aware of potential “hiccups” in a travel itinerary before you are. It’s not uncommon for a travel professional to have already worked out a solution before you know that a problem exists.

When flights get delayed or canceled most travelers will be standing in line frustrated and stressed waiting to get their flights rebooked. Savvy travelers who booked with a travel professional will be relaxing at dinner while their agent works behind the scenes to rebook their flights and rearrange all of their planned activities to accommodate the schedule change. Which sounds more enjoyable?

Since we work with large numbers of travelers, our travel partners often give us access to priority service and make sure our clients are taken care of quickly.

Does it cost more to book my vacation with a travel professional?

The short answer to this question is no. While travel professionals are paid a commission from the suppliers we use to book your vacation, that commission is based on published pricing and fares. In plain English, that means the price for your vacation is the same whether you book it yourself or you use the services of a travel professional.

As with any expert service, your travel professional may charge a nominal professional fee . When you consider the time you will save on planning, the extra level of service and the security of knowing you have someone in your corner should the unexpected occur, and savvy vacationers find this to be money well spent.

In fact, because of our connections and relationships , travel agents are often able to find a better value for your vacation dollars than what you see on your own. Whether it is a more beautiful resort for the same pricing or complimentary upgrades , you might find your budget goes further when working with a travel expert!

When is the best time to contact a travel professional?

As soon as you are serious about planning your trip. The sooner, the better. Whether it’s last minute or planned 18 months in advance, the more time you can give us, the better!

You’ll need to be sure of a few details such as the dates (or date range) you wish to travel, the number of people in your travel party including the ages of any children going with you, your anticipated budget, and an idea of what you’d like to experience. Your travel professional will be happy to recommend specifics based on the information you provide.

The one thing every travel professional will ask is that you are serious about the trip you are asking us to plan. Everyone loves to daydream about exotic and luxurious travel , but we dedicate significant time to each itinerary. No matter how far out the travel dates are, we respectfully ask that you only ask us to begin planning for travel you intend to book soon.

What does it mean to be a Virtuoso Travel Advisor?

What kinds of perks can Virtuoso Travel Advisors offer?

Ready to start planning your next adventure? The perfect vacation begins with scheduling your complimentary consultation to request a time for us to meet. We’ll discuss the details and what you are looking for in your dream vacation. I’ll give you my suggestions and explain how we can best work together to plan the vacation of your dreams.

How can we get started?

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Travel Advice

TRAVEL & CRUISE DESK ’S MOST

Frequently asked questions, + what's included in the service you offer.

A full, detailed list of the service we provide can be found by clicking here .

+ What is the fee for using a travel agency?

We will provide you an initial consultation with an advisor to discuss your travel ideas and see how we can help. After the initial consultation (and depending on the experience you’re looking to book, or the size of your group) we may require a Professional Planning Fee of between $25-$250 per person, based on the complexity and timing of your trip. This allows our specialized advisor to make your experience their priority. They will set aside the time it takes to work closely with our trusted suppliers and create a customized itinerary that will hopefully exceed all your expectations. You can find more details about the services we offer, additional information on deposits and fees, and our booking process by clicking here .

Our Professional Planning Fee does not mean you’ll pay more for your trip. You may even save more than you ever imagined. What our fee does ensure is that YOU are our priority. It allows us to take the time to research then select the supplier and experience that's best for you.

+ I know exactly what I want to book. Can I still use your service?

Yes. Even for those travelers that know exactly what they want and confident they can book on their own, we still believe there is added value to be gained when collaborating with a travel advisor who truly understands what type of traveler they are. In most cases this also results in a lower Professional Planning Fee.

For those clients that enjoy the research & planning stage, we say "The internet is for looking. Your trusted travel advisor is for booking !"

+ What sets the travel & Cruise Desk apart?

There are many benefits to using a travel advisor to assist you with your travels. Here are just a few reasons why the professional service offered by our expert Travel Advisors may be just what you are looking for…

• PERSONALIZED TRAVEL SERVICES - We get to know our clients and understand where they want to go, how they like to get there and most importantly, what they want to experience along the way. Whether they are looking for a sunny beach escape, a quick and painless business trip or an old-world European adventure, we recognize that every traveler is unique and no two trips are exactly alike. We take the time to understand our clients, their travel needs, interests and desires translating them into personalized travel experiences.
• ADDED VALUE - We use our knowledge, expertise and travel industry relationships to offer our clients exclusive vacation packages, amenities and travel specials. This helps get the most value for money and offer experiences that travelers just won't find elsewhere.
• EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND EXPERTISE - Travel is our passion and our life work. Doing everything we can to make the most out of travel experiences is what we do all day, every day. Our advisors have either experienced the destination, cruise, resort, tour ot off-the beaten path excursion or they have planned countless client trips to the destinations or travel type they specialize in. Our first-hand travel experience, education, and ongoing training qualifies us as true experts in our field. Our trusted travel advisors are certified specialists and have completed extensive training on the destinations themselves, such as Australia, or with the cruise lines, hotels, resorts, tour operators and more. They have personally traveled to and around the destinations, sailed and inspected the ships and visited the hotels and resorts. We also have specialists in niche travels areas, such as destination weddings and honeymoons, safaris or all inclusive vacations and even business travel.
• A BETTER BOOKING EXPERIENCE - We understand that planning travel (successfully) is complicated. There are hundreds of details that go into every trip. The service we offer is designed to guide our valued clients through the entire travel planning process, from what to pack before they leave to the best transfer to get home safely and on time. We use our education and experience to provide travelers with insider tips and advice on everything from tours and timing, to how to find those off the beaten track experiences favorited by locals.
• YOUR TRAVEL ADVOCATE - Our priorities lay with our client's interests and travel experience. Unlike any resort, airline, or online booking service, we work one-on-one with our clients to offer a service and value that's simply ungoogleable. After they book, we are here . If anything should go wrong during your trip, such as a canceled flight, our clients can rely on us to help them find an alternative flight or suggest another option, such as the train, that they may not have even thought or known about. We do everything we can to reduce valuable vacation time wasted on logistics, so our clients can get back to making the most out of the time they have.

+ Travel Agents still exist!?

Yes! For all the reasons listed above and more. The role of a traditional travel agencies has changed over the years, but we believe despite all the advancements in technology (and in many ways, because of these advancements) there is still a demand and a place in the world for decerning travelers looking for their own personal travel advocate and an upscale booking and travel experience.

We answer more specific questions and go into more details to the left, but here are the Top 5 Reasons To Book with TRAVEL & CRUISE DESK…

EXPERIENCE BEYOND™ - When using our service, you get free access to all our years of knowledge and experience. By getting to know you, we can assist you in asking the right questions and then provide the best answers and advice to enhance your travel plans. We have meticulously researched what's both of-the-moment and off-the-beaten-path. Our insider knowledge is what elevates a trip from a typical getaway to a life-changing journey.

WE ARE HERE - The one on one personalized customer service we provide is the very top reason to book with us. You won’t receive this extra attention to detail and advocacy using a discount travel site or online booking engine. We promise that we’ll be here for you, before, during, and after you travel with the number one goal of improving your travel and booking experience.

MORE VALUE - A common myth is that using a travel agency will cost you more than booking yourself directly. In reality, when booking cruises, tours, hotel stays, and other travel components, our clients almost always find the opposite is true. As well as being able to take advantage of the same promotions and deals travelers have access to when booking direct; our agency has its own agreements with our travel partners that often result in lower prices and extra perks.

EXTRA PERKS - Our global partnerships ensure access to the world's finest hotels, resorts, cruises, and land vacations. What to expect? You'll travel with top experts and experience serious wow factor. The Cruise lines, tour companies, and other travel providers we work with understand that when it comes to planning travel, there are many competing options available to the public. They also realize that as travel advisors, we are in the prime position to recommend the suppliers and experiences that best suit our qualified clients. Because of this, many of our preferred partners will offer additional perks, amenities, VIP access, and even unpublished tour/cruise dates that we can pass on to our valued clients.

SAVE TIME - Time is today's most coveted luxury. Beyond the reasons above and more, using our service can save a lot of research and valued time you may not have. For those clients, they simply need to tell us some basic information and what type of experience they are looking for, and we will get back to you with several different options. For the many clients that enjoy travel planning and research, we are here as an extra pair of eyes or to help assist with those finer details which could otherwise be overlooked. Just remember… the internet is for looking. Your personal travel advisor is perfect for booking.

Still have questions? No problem! Contact our front desk concierge and have them answered as soon as humanly possible.

Travel Agent FAQs

Travel Agents may book online by using the booking engine at the top of this page. Select your client's desired resort, enter the check-in and check-out dates, and enter your IATA or CLIA number when you're in the booking process. You may also book reservations by calling the Reservations Center at +1-888-808-7410 .

Our booking system only allows the confirmation email to be sent to one email address. In the Reservation Summary screen (aka. the reservation information section), the email address entered is the same email address that the CONFIRMATION email will be immediately sent to upon completion of booking. If the Travel Agent wants to receive the confirmation email, they should enter their own email address. If the Travel Agent wants for the guest to receive the confirmation email, they should enter the guest email address.

All of our Westgate Resorts properties may be found under the GDS Chain Code: YX. View GDS Codes

Thank you for your continued support of Westgate Resorts! To take advantage of our special Travel Agent education rate, simply visit this page for more information . This special rate can also be booked by calling 1-877-729-0389 .

Travel Agents must cancel the reservation for the guest, either online or by calling the Reservations Center at +1-888-808-7410 .

Travel Agent reservations require a valid IATA or CLIA number in order to pay the commission to the travel agency after Guest checks out. Commission payments are processed weekly through Onyx CenterSource. To create a login and manage your commissions, go here .

• Travel Agents
• Education Rate

Reservations

Q: How can I book for my client using my IATA or CLIA number?

A: Travel Agents may book online by using the booking engine at the top of this page. Select your client's desired resort, enter the check-in and check-out dates, and enter your IATA or CLIA number when you're in the booking process. You may also book reservations by calling the Reservations Center at +1-888-808-7410 .

Q: How can I receive a copy of the confirmation email?

A: Our booking system only allows the confirmation email to be sent to one email address. In the Reservation Summary screen (aka. the reservation information section), the email address entered is the same email address that the CONFIRMATION email will be immediately sent to upon completion of booking. If the Travel Agent wants to receive the confirmation email, they should enter their own email address. If the Travel Agent wants for the guest to receive the confirmation email, they should enter the guest email address.

Q: What are Westgate Resorts' GDS Codes?

A: All of our Westgate Resorts properties may be found under the GDS Chain Code: YX. View GDS Codes

Q: How can I book, using a FAM/Educational rate (since I am a Travel Agent)?

A: Thank you for your continued support of Westgate Resorts! To take advantage of our special Travel Agent education rate, simply visit this page for more information . This special rate can also be booked by calling 1-877-729-0389 .

Cancellations

Q: How can I cancel my client's reservation?

A: Travel Agents must cancel the reservation for the guest, either online or by calling the Reservations Center at +1-888-808-7410 .

Commissions

Q: What do I need in order to earn my commission?

A: Travel Agent reservations require a valid IATA or CLIA number in order to pay the commission to the travel agency after Guest checks out. Commission payments are processed weekly through Onyx CenterSource. To create a login and manage your commissions, go here.

Details for Travel Agents

Educational rate, view resorts, request for proposal.

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Travel Agent Campus FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions.

Becoming a travel agent can be a wonderful pursuit for individuals who love discovering new places and cultures. If you enjoy exploring, planning, traveling, and working with people, a career in the travel industry may be the perfect fit! A job as a travel agent can offer plenty of flexibility, including making your own schedule and working from home. Speaking of home, you can learn the skills you need right in your living room by becoming a travel agent online. If you’re looking for a new, rewarding career, keep reading to learn more about how Travel Agent Campus can help you become a travel agent!!

Travel agents are individuals who have completed specialized training that prepares them to plan, book, and manage travel experiences for other people.

Yes, they are all the same. The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) announced in 2019 that the industry should use the title "Travel Advisor" moving forward, though “travel agent” is still popular and widely used.

We are the training portion of the travel industry. You will need professional travel industry training and certification to get started. Most travel agencies or companies will not work with you unless you have been professionally trained and certified. You will need the proper accreditation and credentials from ARC, IATA, and CLIA in order to sell travel. Travel Agent Campus will set you up with a host/support travel agency through which you may conduct your travel business. Our host travel agency, Travel Planners International (TPI), has the accreditation and credentials you will need. TPI has been in business for more than 30 years and was voted the number-one host agency by ASTA.

When you take a Travel Agent Campus course or certification, you are choosing the Platinum Standard and the most sought-after Travel Advisor Training & Certification program. Our training is developed by the innovators of the independent home-based travel advisor concept and the host or support travel agency model. We bring 30+ years of experience in training individuals who are new to the business and turning them into experienced travel professionals.

Our training allows each learner to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful Travel Advisor. Training is based on an industry-standard curriculum. Our travel training is delivered 100% online over one of the most robust learning platforms in the industry, Adobe® Captivate Prime, with a Free Adobe® Mobile App to take your training on the go. You’ll find our training to be self-paced, informative, comprehensive, and engaging, utilizing a blended-learning approach with textbooks and video training modules (VTM). Instructors are always available throughout your training via phone, Live Chat, and Email. We provide a convenient way for you to become a travel agent from home!

YES, we are recognized by ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors as a travel school. We are recognized by The Travel Institute as a travel school. We are recognized by Host/Support travel agencies such as TPI - Travel Planners International, TPI - Travel Professionals International USA, ATA - American Travel Advisors, and others. We are also recognized by many of the travel suppliers throughout the travel industry including airlines, hotels, resorts, car rentals, tour operators, and cruise lines.

If you are new to the industry, we’d like to share with you how this works. Our goal is to train you on what you need to know and help you get set up to become a successful travel agent / advisor from home!

• You decide on the Course / Certification you want to take based on your preferences and goals.
• You will learn this exciting material from the convenience of your home.
• Training is self-paced and a combination of blended online learning with textbooks.
• Immediately receive an email with your receipt and a downloadable "Welcome Letter" to start your training.
• Your electronic textbook(s) will be emailed to you. They are not needed until after watching the video training.
• Start your training and complete it at your own pace. The average completion time is 3 to 10 days.
• Instructors are available 24/7 if you need them by LiveChat, Email, and via phone during business hours.
• Finish your training and receive your Travel Agent / Advisor certificate of completion.
• Your certification credentials will be sent to you and also sent to TPI via email.
• After your name on your business cards and your website, you can add your certification credentials (TAC)!
• Directly connect with TPI: VOTED #1 HOST SUPPORT TRAVEL AGENCY by ASTA, with 30+ years in business!
• Subscribe to TPI (from $30 per month for full support and a 24/7 agent portal to make your Travel Reservations). ( TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a 399 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity. )  
• Your home-based Travel Agency opens for business with full support from TPI.
• Start promoting travel and earn up to 90% commissions.
• Tell everyone you are a Certified Travel Agent / Advisor.
• Work wherever and whenever you want. Make as much money as you want! No restrictions.
• Enjoy travel benefits and discounts.
• This entire process from beginning to end can be finished in a matter of 2 weeks.

CHOOSE THE BRONZE COURSE  - If you are expanding your travel knowledge as a hobby and want to book travel for just family and friends, then taking the BRONZE travel agent/advisor course is fine.

CHOOSE THE SILVER CERTIFICATION  - If you want the BRONZE and you also want to become more of a professional travel agent/advisor or luxury travel advisor who can sell to the general public, then it is highly advisable to obtain a certification. The SILVER includes the BRONZE inside of it. 2 certifications in 1 program.

CHOOSE THE GOLD CERTIFICATION  - If you want the BRONZE and the SILVER but also want to sell Cruises then it is highly advisable to obtain this certification. It includes an additional certification called the CCS - Certified Cruise Specialist. The CCS certification is valued at $695 by itself. Avid cruise consumers are demanding to work only with certified advisors because cruises and their itineraries can be very complex. The GOLD also includes the BRONZE and the SILVER inside of it. 3 certifications in 1 program.

CHOOSE THE PLATINUM CERTIFICATION  - If you want the BRONZE, SILVER, and GOLD but also want to sell Exciting Destinations then it is highly advisable to obtain this certification. It includes an additional certification called the CGS - Certified Geography / Destination Specialist. The CGS certification is valued at $695 by itself. Avid Exotic Destination consumers are demanding and want to work only with certified advisors because Exotic Destinations can be very intricate and complex. The PLATINUM also includes the BRONZE, SILVER, and GOLD inside of it. 4 certifications in 1 program.

75%  of our learners choose either the GOLD or PLATINUM CERTIFICATION training for their exceptional value and that they have all the certifications you would ever need to become a professional travel agent and to help you get your travel agency up and running quickly.

The  CERTIFICATIONS  compared to the BRONZE COURSE to become a travel agent/advisor provide more in-depth training and credentials that help you earn credibility in the industry and with clients. You will receive professional designations (TAC, CCS, CGS, and TACt) that you can put on your website, business cards, and your email footer. Certification to become a travel agent is crucial if you want to start your own full-fledged travel agency. It is documented in the industry that certified travel agents/advisors earn more income and receives greater client trust.

Choosing your course or certification is a personal choice that depends on your preferences, interests, and career goals. Click on the link below to review our courses or certifications.

• Travel Advisor Courses and Certifications

If you are expanding your travel knowledge as a hobby and want to book travel for just family and friends, then taking the basic travel agent/advisor course is fine. However, if you want to become a professional travel agent or luxury travel advisor who can sell to the public, then it is highly advisable to obtain one or more of the certifications we offer. The certifications provide more in-depth training and credentials that help you earn credibility in the industry and with clients. You will receive professional designations that you can put on your business cards and email footer. Certification is crucial if you want to start your own full-fledged travel agency. It is documented in the industry that certified travel professionals earn more income and receive greater client trust.

No more waiting until you finish your training to start selling travel. This is how the Earn While You Learn program works:

It's simple. You Can Start Selling Travel And Earning While You Are Learning. All you need to do is complete the first set of video training modules and mini-quiz modules and then sign up with TPI - Travel Planners International host/support travel agency. The amount of training (2 days avg) is a small portion of your entire program. It's an exciting program and is now only a $99 optional add-on. You might be saying to yourself how can you do this? Having TPI as an approved partner, an experienced host/support travel agency, guides you every step of the way. TPI has been hosting for over 33+ years. So you are in good hands.

To get started, click on the link and choose your training program. The Earn While You Learn program will be automatically added to your cart before checkout.

Courses & Certifications

CERTIFICATION DETAILS

Certifications are valid for 1 year from the date of successfully completing the training.

PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATION

Typically, certification requires 1-year experience before being certified. Here at TAC, we designate new to the industry travel advisors to become certified under our provisional certification category.

Initially, a 6-month provisional certification is awarded upon passing the training. Once the graduate can document at least 6 months of travel industry experience and has earned 10 continuing education units (CEUs), has consistently abided by travel industry ethics standards determined by ASTA, is in good standing with the travel industry, and has agreed to the attestation of ethics/standing, the graduate’s certification will be transferred from provisional status to regular status. If the provisional graduate does not follow the outlined requirements, the certification will expire without notice. To receive re-certification after expiration, a $75 fee will apply. While on provisional status, there are no additional restrictions or limitations of benefits during the 6-month period. The new advisor can perform and receive all the usual tasks and benefits associated with being a regularly certified travel advisor but is under the indirect supervision of seasoned certified travel advisors.

CERTIFICATION RENEWAL & CEUs

Certification must be renewed before the 1-year expiration date by following and abiding by these requirements:

Must pay a $25 re-certification fee ($75 if late), consistently abide by travel industry ethics standards determined by ASTA, be in good standing with the travel industry, provide an attestation of ethics/standing, and have earned a minimum of 10 continuing education units (CEUs) per year to maintain certification. The CEU requirement is an effective way to master new skills, attain product knowledge, remain current on industry trends, and continue to develop your role as a travel professional. Contact us via email to verify the acceptability of continuing education units (CEUs). CEUs from ASTA, CLIA, and The Travel Institute are universally acceptable by Travel Agent Campus.

Disclaimer: The training programs are designed to allow individuals to meet the minimum requirements to work as independent agents for host travel agencies and retail travel agencies. Training programs are transferable to our contracted host agencies and retail travel agencies and may not be transferable to other institutions or agencies. It is the prerogative of the receiving institution or agency to accept or deny transferability. Check with other institutions and agencies prior to registration or enrollment. The travel agent training programs offered by Travel Agent Campus have not been approved or accredited by any state educational agency or nationally/regionally recognized accrediting agency.

The host/support travel agency, TPI - Travel Planners International who may provide your connection to the travel industry for travel reservations is a separate business entity from Travel Agent Campus. Please see their website ( travelplannersinternational.com ) for up-to-date complete details on their programs. We are not responsible for not conveying all the details related to TPI. (TPI requires a credit card for membership/setup fees, and your social security number to verify your identity.) TPI reserves the right to change rates, policies, and procedures at any time.

Yes! If you are an experienced travel agent, call 888-376-9861 for resources.

Most individuals finish their training within 3 to 10 days. There are courses that can be finished in 3 to 5 days. Certifications can be completed within 7 to 10 days. You have up to 90 days after enrollment to complete your entire training, if needed.

Textbook(s) are required and must be purchased separately ($99 to $198) and sent from us directly. Textbook(s) are typically electronic. If a paperback textbook is used, paperback textbook(s) will be shipped from our facility within 2 to 3 business days via USPS after the learner's registration is processed and accepted. If on a payment plan texts are shipped the same as above but on an as-need basis and the learner must request their book(s) via email to [email protected]

As soon as you make your payment, an email will be sent with your receipt, including a downloadable Welcome Letter with your login credentials. You will be able to start the training immediately. The training is delivered online (available 24/7 with full support from instructors and staff via email, LiveChat, or by a Toll-Free call. The training is self-paced, so you do the training at your own pace and on your schedule. The instructors and staff will never bother you or intrude. They are there when you need them. The training is blended with videos, travel content, online resources, and electronic or paperback textbook(s). All are delivered via Adobe Learning Manager on any computer internet browser and a free mobile app to take the training on the go.

The course is based on a 10th-grade education (high school).

Yes. Our curriculum is based on the travel industry standard, and we have been providing training courses and certifications for more than 30 years. Our graduates are working all over the world.

Go to Course & Certifications , then follow the prompts to purchase your course/certification.

How much does it cost for the BRONZE - TRAVEL ADVISOR COURSE?

One-Time Payment : Pay in full (Was $995) ON SALE NOW $695 (plus a one-time book package fee, shipping, and optional items/upgrades).

6-Month Payment Plan : $145.83 / month for 6 months (plus a one-time book package fee, plan setup fee, shipping, and optional items/upgrades)

PLEASE NOTE: More courses and certifications are available.

To enroll, the system will ask for your full name, email address, billing address, mailing address, phone number, payment information, and which training you desire. TPI the host / support travel agency will require the following: (TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a 399 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.)

You will receive an email from us including your paid invoice with a downloadable welcome email for access to our learning management system (Adobe Learning Manager), where you will find your login credentials and training information. Your electronic textbooks will be emailed to you.

Yes, our payment website is HTTPS encrypted.

The charge will show "Travel Agent" or “Travel Campus”.

Yes. In-house, no credit check, 6-month plans are available . We also accept PayPal Credit with 6 months same-as-cash.

In order to take advantage of the payment plans, you need to have a credit card (e-checks are not accepted). Choose your training below and you will be automatically set up on an in-house 6-month payment plan. The great news is these payment plans are In-House and there is no credit check and everyone is approved. If you decide to pay off early there is no penalty. Your first payment will consist of the training portion depending on the training you choose and your first payment will include your required book(s) for $99.95 (regular price is $198 but on sale now for $99.95 plus processing fee). Your electronic textbook(s) will be emailed to you.  You will then have five remaining monthly payments. If applicable, any remaining book(s) are requested by the student on an as-needed basis). If you need assistance with your payment plan you can contact us by email at [email protected], or call us at 1-888-376-9861, or you can go into your account on this website and manage your account directly. This website will automatically set up an account for you upon checkout. You will receive your certificate of completion as soon as you are paid in full.

Yes, and with no penalty. Please see payment options above.

You will receive your certificate of completion as soon as you are paid in full. You do have the option to pay off your balance early without penalty.

No, we never sell your personal information. Please visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

The training is self-paced, so your personal approach will determine how long you spend on the training (90 days max allowed). We have seen learners finish in two to three days for our most basic course, and 7 to 10 days for certifications.

No, not currently. Our staff members speak many languages and can offer limited assistance if you choose to complete the course as a non-native English speaker.

Yes, they are required to ensure your competency with the material. Passing a quiz is required to move onto other quizzes or chapters.

Yes. All individual chapter quizzes and final exams are online.

80% or greater indicates competency in the subject matter.

Yes, you may retake exams, tests, and quizzes up to two times. The questions will be different for each retake. If you are concerned about not passing some of the exams, tests, and quizzes, then it's advisable to get our upgrade to the "EXAM, TEST & QUIZ RETAKE UPGRADE." You Will Be Allowed One Additional Retake Of Each Exam, Test & Quiz Without Charge, for a total of 3 retakes per exam, test, and quiz. In the event that you fail the exam, test or quiz, you will not be able to move on in your training, thus needing an administrator to unlock the course. If you fail 3 or more exams, tests, or quizzes, you will fail the entire course, and no refund is given. Does not apply to the TACt - Travel Advisor Competency Test. This upgrade will be automatically added to your cart at checkout after selecting your training. Click on the “X’ to remove it.

There is typically one test per module/chapter quiz, and one final exam for each textbook.

There are questions taken at random from the individual chapter quizzes.

Yes, you may retake the final exam up to two times. The questions will be different for each retake. If you are concerned about not passing too many quizzes, it's advisable to opt for our upgrade to the "Exam / Test / Quiz Retake Upgrade." It allows you to take your exam, test, or quiz an additional one time. Does not apply to the TACt - Travel Advisor Competency test.

A refund will be provided if the conditions of this statement are met. The refund will consist of the total amount received by TAC, minus the retail price of any text materials mailed by TAC to the learner plus any associated shipping. A refund will only be authorized providing that TAC receives Notice of Cancellation by email ([email protected]) prior to midnight of the 3rd day after the learner receives notice of acceptance from TAC (receives welcome email/letter). All written and text materials that have been mailed become the property of the learner (no refunds for books or shipping). When a learner gives Notice of Cancellation after the 3rd day, no refund will be given. You will receive a refund of all monies paid if you are not accepted as a learner (a notice will be sent by TAC). If the learner is on an in-house payment plan and cancels their plan, the learner is still fully obligated to pay the entire balance if the notice of Cancellation is after the 3rd day. Collection efforts are initiated for any balanced owed if the learner does not make an acceptable arrangement to pay their balance. No exceptions are made.

Yes. However, keep in mind that the training program fulfills basic entry requirements for host and retail travel agencies. Individual agencies may require that you complete additional training.

We cannot guarantee a job or success. However, the training will better prepare you for the challenges involved in starting your career and operating a home-based travel agency. Our training does allow you to directly connect with TPI the host/support travel agency so you can sell travel. (TPI requires a credit card for membership/setup fees, and your social security number to verify your identity.) 

Yes. Compared to our payment plans, you will save $$$.

There is no experience required to become a travel agent online with Travel Agent Campus.

Yes! Call 888-376-9861

Yes, you can do as little as you want or as much as you want.

Yes, we encourage you to help out your family and friends. You can do as little as you want or as much as you want. Please note that some trainings will allow you to only book for friends and family.

You can book unlimited flights, vacations, cruises, and trips to wherever you desire.

The average sale of a travel booking for a family of four is $3800. The average commission on that booking is 16%. That's $608.00 in commission, and you get up to 90% of the $608.00. That's a whopping $547.20 for you!

Yes, but your group has to be large enough. You may need to book at least 6 to 10 individual accommodations (cabins, rooms, etc.).

We have agents who make anywhere from $0 to $100,000 and more. Keep in mind that some agents are doing this as a hobby or for the travel benefits alone — that's where the "$0" comes in to play. Some agents are very serious and dedicated to maximizing their income. Those are the agents making $100,000 and above.

Don't forget to add in the travel benefits! Those travel benefits are worth a lot of money that is not calculated in the total wages. According to a BLS report released in 2018, percentile wage estimates for this occupation are: 10% at $22,370; 25% at $28,730; 50% at $38,700; 75% at $51,950; 90% at $66,080.

Home-based travel agents work on commissions. You will be paid twice per month by the host/support travel agency using direct deposit or by paper check.

Yes, but the training is best viewed on a desktop.

You can begin your training by selecting the course or certification that most interests you. TPI, the host / support travel agency, will require the following: (TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a 399 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.)

Yes. We are always available 24/7 via live chat and email, or by phone at 1-888-376-9861...

How Does The Program Work? What is the process of becoming a travel agent from beginning to end?

You decide on the Course / Certification you want to take based on your preferences and goals. You will learn this exciting material from the convenience of your home. Training is self-paced and a combination of blended online learning with textbooks. Immediately receive an email with your receipt and a downloadable "Welcome Letter" to start your training. Your electronic textbook(s) will be emailed to you. They are not needed until after watching the video training. Start your training and complete it at your own pace. The average completion time is 3 to 10 days. Instructors can be available 24/7 if you need them by LiveChat, Email, and via phone during business hours. Finish your training and receive your Travel Agent / Advisor certificate of completion. After your name on your business cards and your website, you can add your certification credentials (TAC)! Your certification credentials will be emailed to you (with a special link to connect you to TPI) and copied to TPI. Directly connect with TPI: VOTED #1 HOST SUPPORT TRAVEL AGENCY by ASTA, with 30+ years in business! Subscribe via the special link to TPI (from $40 per month for full support and a 24/7 agent portal to make your Travel Reservations). (TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a $459 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.) Your home-based Travel Agency opens for business with full support from TPI. Get access via TPI to the IATA/ARC/CLIA number(s) to make travel reservations. Get access to the exclusive Travel Agent reservations systems to make travel reservations. Easy Point-n-Click systems and Professional GDS systems are available - Sabre, Amadeus, Galileo, and Worldspan. Start promoting travel (TPI has a dedicated marketing dept. to assist) and start earning up to 90% commissions. Tell everyone you are a Certified Travel Agent / Advisor. Work wherever and whenever you want. Make as much money as you want! No restrictions. Enjoy travel benefits and discounts. The entire process from beginning to end can be finished in a matter of 2 weeks.

Travel Planners International Host/Support Travel Agency (TPI) FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

TPI is our host travel agency. We have been working with them for more than 30 years assisting our trained agents to become successful travel experts throughout the United States. Currently, we are over 4500+ agents strong, and you can be one of them.

The travel professionals at TPI are experts in training and supporting travel agents who are either new to the industry or experienced, independent travel agents. TPI provides agents with ongoing educational opportunities, marketing, advertising, lead generation, negotiation power, time-saving software, and an interactive travel website to promote your travel business. With their extensive knowledge and experience in the travel industry, they are able to provide their agents with the absolute best tools to succeed. Their experienced staff is passionate about assisting fellow travel agents in any way to help them become specialized professionals in their field. (TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a 399 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.)

After completing your travel agent course or certification with Travel Agent Campus, you will get 24/7 access to our exclusive TPI agent portal with everything a travel agent needs for booking with airlines, cruises, hotels, resorts, tour operators, and vacation providers.* You’ll also enjoy:

• 24/7 TPI agent portal with everything a travel agent needs for booking airlines, cruises, hotels, resorts, tour operators, and vacation providers
• A hefty 70% of the commission on your travel reservations, with 80% and 90% commission available.
• Ongoing educational opportunities from TPI and industry suppliers onsite and via live stream
• Mentoring and coaching from dedicated travel professionals
• How-to training videos
• Marketing and social media tools and support via your website and from TPI staff
• Advertising in the form of email blasts, direct mail, and social media posts
• Consumer Connect listing to help potential clients find you
• Access to the TPI agent-only Facebook discussion group
• Pay-per-lead access at a reduced price
• Negotiation power and higher commissions with Signature Travel Network.
• Back-office accounting software to keep track of your clients and commissions
• CRM – Contact Relationship Management software / app, TPI Suitcase included
• Errors & Omissions Insurance up to 1 million dollars
• Consumer-facing website packages with integrated travel booking engines are available.
• 24/7 help desk for you and your clients available.
• Travel discounts and benefits

(TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a 399 setup fee, and your social security number to verify your identity.) 

WHO IS TPI & Why Become a TPI Rockstar

Here at Travel Planners International, we spend our days and nights dreaming of ways we can make our family of passionate, sleep-deprived, ROCKSTAR advisors so happy and profitable they go to bed at night yelling, “NAILED IT!” We’re just a group of fun, good-looking people with a passion for making your travel agency business a thriving success. Our core values make partnering with us an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Mission Statement – Our mission is to provide all of the tools, support, and fulfillment services to assist each of our travel partners to be the most knowledgeable, efficient, competitive, and profitable leisure and corporate sellers in the travel industry.

Vision Statement – Our vision is to be unrivaled in the travel industry by continuously developing new business relationships and opportunities.

Values Statement – These are the words we live by:

Integrity: We are committed to honesty, loyalty, and a high standard of ethical conduct.

Customer-Focused: We provide the highest level of customer service to our agents, their customers, and our preferred suppliers.

Results-Orientated: We believe our success depends on our leadership and management teams’ abilities to focus and execute missions on schedule.

Teamwork: We build and maintain long-term, professional, win-win relationships with our employees, agents, preferred suppliers, and all our business partners to achieve mutual success.

Excellence: We are a high-performance organization committed to staying focused on total customer satisfaction. We continuously analyze our processes and ourselves to become the best of the best.

Innovative: We are always developing and implementing cutting-edge technologies for our agents and preferred suppliers.

Why Become a TPI Rockstar

We know exactly how hard-charging, passionate, and high-energy you are because you’re just like us. From the minute you pick up the phone to partner with us as your Host Travel Agency, you’ll experience the TPI difference. Not only will you get to talk to a human on the phone, but you’ll also receive:

Unparalleled Support for All Areas of Your Business Exclusive Community Relationships with Fellow Go-Getter Rockstars Access to Over 380 Preferred Cruise, Land, Air, Tours, and All-Inclusive Suppliers and 1000’s of Others Through Our Already Established Account Relationships The Power to Double-Dip Into the Benefits Behind Our Top Ranking With Our Consortia Partner, Signature Travel Group

DISCLAIMER - The host/support travel agency, TPI - Travel Planners International who may provide your connection to the travel industry for travel reservations is a separate business entity from Travel Agent Campus. Please see their website (travelplannersinternational.com ) for up-to-date complete details on their programs. We are not responsible for not conveying all the details related to TPI.

(TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a 399 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.) TPI reserves the right to change rates, policies, and procedures at any time.

Full access for travel agents begins at $40 per month. Please visit Travel Planners International for complete details. (TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a $459 setup fee, and your social security number to verify your identity.)

• For $40, you get 70% of the commission received from your travel sales
• For $50, you get 80% of the commission received from your travel sales
• For $60, you get 90% of the commission received from your travel sales

Every monthly subscription includes the benefits listed above in the section titled “What are the benefits of joining TPI?”

(TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a $459 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.)

No. TPI and Travel Agent Campus are separate companies.

You will get 24/7 access to the exclusive TPI agent portal for access to all of the booking tools you need right on your desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

Yes, your optional website will include this feature (called a “booking engine”). Most website packages come with the ability to add different types of booking engines (air, car, hotel, cruise, all-inclusives, etc.).

Yes, but it is important to decide if this is the best option for you. If you pursue a travel agent career on your own, you will have the following responsibilities, and likely more:

• To get your own agency started, it will cost at least $25,000 plus $3,500 annually
• You will receive no support from a professional agency or other agents
• You will have to set up contracts with all suppliers
• You will have to pay for your own registrations in the states that require it
• You will have to have your own Errors & Omissions insurance
• You will have to have your own liability insurance and a bond
• You will have to wait two years to be able to ticket for airlines
• You will have to start out with the lowest commissions with suppliers (most will start you at 5%, whereas we have negotiated up to 20% with certain suppliers)
• You will have to manage your own marketing and advertising from scratch

No, but a 30-day notice is required if you decide to end your membership.

No. You can work as little or as much as you want.

Typical commission ranges from 70-90%.

Been in business for more than 30 years.

With TPI, you are your own boss — an independent travel agent/advisor who sets their own schedule and runs their own business. You utilize us for support services and for access to the travel reservation systems.

Yes, we can train you after your initial training with Travel Agent Campus. They will teach you everything you need to know to get started. After you are trained, we offer ongoing training, most of which is free.

Yes. We have many tools to help you market and advertise your travel agency.

Many times a day calls come into the office for travel but we send them back out to our independent agents. We show you how to utilize social media, emailing, and internet presence to generate leads, We also have access to programs that are available to you including pay-per-lead programs.

First, you will be placed on the travel agent directory (Consumer Connect) on the host's many websites. You will be found through the host's social media presence. If you choose to utilize the optional consumer-facing website, then you will be found through organic internet searches on Google, Yahoo, Bing, and others. You will also be found through advertising in the form of email blasts, direct mail, and social media posts.

Yes. We have software (CRM - Contact Relationship Management system - TPI Suitcase) and apps to help you manage your customers and your business.

Yes! We are just a chat, email, or phone call away. You will also receive dedicated support from our main office team for your first year with us. You will also be part of our exclusive Facebook groups and have 24/7 access to our network (currently 4500+) of agents to ask questions.

You decide on the Course / Certification you want to take based on your preferences and goals. You will learn this exciting material from the convenience of your home. Training is self-paced and a combination of blended online learning with electronic textbooks. Immediately receive an email with your receipt and a downloadable "Welcome Letter" to start your training. Your electronic textbook(s) will be emailed to you. They are not needed until after watching the video training. Start your training and complete it at your own pace. The average completion time is 3 to 10 days. Instructors can be available 24/7 if you need them by LiveChat, Email, and via phone during business hours. Finish your training and receive your Travel Agent / Advisor certificate of completion. After your name on your business cards and your website, you can add your certification credentials (TAC)! Your certification credentials will be emailed to you (with a special link to connect you to TPI) and copied to TPI. Directly connect with TPI: VOTED #1 HOST SUPPORT TRAVEL AGENCY by ASTA, with 30+ years in business! Subscribe via the special link to TPI (from $40 per month for full support and a 24/7 agent portal to make your Travel Reservations). (TPI requires an internet evaluation, an electronic agreement, a credit card for monthly membership fees, up to a $459 setup fee, must be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, have a U.S. address, have a U.S. bank account, and a social security number to verify your identity.) Your home-based Travel Agency opens for business with full support from TPI. Get access via TPI to the IATA/ARC/CLIA number(s) to make travel reservations. Get access to the exclusive Travel Agent reservations systems to make travel reservations. Easy Point-n-Click systems and Professional GDS systems are available - Sabre, Amadeus, Galileo, and Worldspan. Start promoting travel (TPI has a dedicated marketing dept. to assist) and start earning up to 90% commissions. Tell everyone you are a Certified Travel Agent / Advisor. Work wherever and whenever you want. Make as much money as you want! No restrictions. Enjoy travel benefits and discounts. The entire process from beginning to end can be finished in a matter of 2 weeks.

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Affidavit of Support Fee Refund

Immigrant Visa Prioritization

USCIS Extends Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Religious Workers (R-1) Nonimmigrant Visa Classification

Record Numbers of U.S. Students Are Studying Abroad

U.S. Student Visas Reach Record Numbers in 2007

U.S. security officials will begin scanning all 10 fingerprints of most non-Americans traveling to the United States

Electronic Submission of Diversity Visa Lottery Applications

USCIS Centralizes Filing for H-2A Petitions

USCIS Field Office Adopts Teletech Call Appointment System For Filing Waiver of Inadmissibility Applications

Application Fees for Non-Immigrant Visas to Increase on January 1, 2008

Senior Advisors to Brief Press on the Latest Developments in Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa Issues

Briefing on Developments in the Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) Admissions Programs

DHS Proposes Changes to Improve H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program

Testimony of Stephen A. “Tony” Edson on U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Science and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, House Committee on Science and Technology

Update: Biometric Changes for Re-entry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents

With All the Talk about Illegal Immigration, a Look at the Legal Kind

Latvia, Estonia Sign Deals with US on Visa-Free Travel

Fact Sheet: Changes to the FY2009 H-1B Program

USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas

USCIS Releases Preliminary Number of FY 2009 H-1B Cap Filings

USCIS Extends Comment Period for Proposed Change to H-2A Program

USCIS Runs Random Selection Process for H-1B Petitions

17-Month Extension of Optional Practical Training for Certain Highly Skilled Foreign Students

DHS Begins Collecting 10 Fingerprints from International Visitors at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption Enters into Force

USCIS to Accept H-1B Petitions Sent to California or Vermont Service Centers Temporary Accommodation Made for FY 09 Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative

USCIS Announces Update for Processing Petitions for Nonimmigrant Victims of Criminal Activity

USCIS to Allow F-1 Students Opportunity to Request Change of Status

Immigration Tops Agenda at North American Summit

USCIS Issues Guidance for Approved Violence against Women Act (VAWA) Self-Petitioners

USCIS Modifies Application for Employment Authorization Previous Versions of Form I-765 Accepted until July 8, 2008

Overseas Education More Attainable for Chinese Students

New York Business Group Seeks Fewer Restrictions on Foreign Worker Visas

What types of visas are available for people to come to the United States?

There are more than 20 nonimmigrant visa types for people traveling to the United States temporarily. There are many more types of immigrant visas for those coming to live permanently in the United States. The type of Visa you need is determined by the purpose of your intended travel. For an overview of visa types, please see  Types of Visas for Temporary Visitors  or  Visa Types for Immigrants .

After Visa Issuance

How do i read and understand my visa.

Please use the illustrated guide below to learn how to read your new nonimmigrant visa (for travel to the U.S. as a temporary visitor). In addition, as soon as you receive it, check to make sure information printed on the visa is correct (see below). If any of the information on your visa does not match the information in your passport or is incorrect, please contact the nonimmigrant visa section at the embassy or consulate that issued your visa.

What is a Visa? Nonimmigrant Visa Types (Classifications) Immigrant Visa Types (Classifications)

My visa expires in 5 years, what does this mean?

A visa must be valid at the time a traveler seeks admission to the United States, but the expiration date of the visa (validity period/length of time the visa can be used) has no relation to the length of time a temporary visitor may be authorized by the Department of Homeland Security to remain in the United States. Persons holding visas valid for multiple entries may make repeated trips to the United States, for travel for the same purpose, as long as the visa has not expired, and the traveler has done nothing to become ineligible to enter the United States, at port-of-entry.

Visa Validity

My old passport has already expired. my visa to travel to the united states is still valid but in my expired passport. do i need to apply for a new visa with my new passport.

No. If your visa is still valid you can travel to the United States with your two passports, as long as the visa is valid, not damaged, and is the appropriate type of visa required for your principal purpose of travel. (Example: tourist visa, when your principal purpose of travel is tourism). Both passports (the valid and the expired one with the visa) should be from the same country and type (Example: both Uruguayan regular passports, both official passports, etc.). When you arrive at the U.S. port-of-entry (POE, generally an airport or land border) the Customs and Border Protection Immigration Officer will check your visa in the old passport and if s/he decides to admit you into the United States they will stamp your new passport with an admission stamp along with the annotation "VIOPP" (visa in other passport). Do not try to remove the visa from your old passport and stick it into the new valid passport. If you do so, your visa will no longer be valid.

My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?

No. If the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection Immigration Officer at the port-of-entry admitted you into the United States for a specific period of time, s/he will note your authorized period of stay on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94, called an Arrival/Departure Record. You will be able to remain in the United States during your authorized period of stay, even if your visa expires during the time you are in the United States. Since your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 documents your authorized stay and is the official record of your permission to be in the United States, it is very important to keep inside your passport.

What are indefinite validity visas (Burroughs visas) and are they still valid?

Indefinite validity visas (Burroughs Visas) are tourist/business visas manually stamped into a traveler’s passport which were valid for ten years. Effective April 1, 2004, all indefinite validity Burroughs visas became void. Therefore, if you have an indefinite validity visa you must apply for a new visa for travel to the U.S.

Administrative Processing

What is administrative processing.

Some visa applications require further administrative processing, which takes additional time after the visa applicant's interview by a consular officer. Applicants are advised of this requirement when they apply.  Learn more .

My visa application has been refused. Why can't I get my money back?

The fee that you paid is an application fee. Everyone who applies for a U.S. visa anywhere in the world must pay this fee, which covers the cost of processing your application. This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether you are issued a visa or not, since your application was processed to conclusion. As one example, if your application was refused under Section 214(b) and you choose to reapply for a visa, whether applying at the same embassy or elsewhere, you will be required to pay the visa application processing fee. See the  Fees for Visa Services  page for a list of fees.

I have a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon and I would like to renew it. Do I need go through the whole visa application process again?

Yes, you will have to go through the whole visa application process each time you want to apply for a visa, even if your visa is still valid. There are some situations where a visa applicant may not need to be interviewed when renewing his/her visa. See the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for more information.

My immigrant visa expired before I was able to travel to the United States. What should I do?

You should contact the Immigrant Visa Unit of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate that issued your visa. You do not need to file a new petition with USCIS, but you may need to submit a new application (DS-260) and pay another  immigrant visa application processing fee .  In addition, you may need to submit new supporting documents, such as a new medical examination and police certificate.  Please be prepared to return your unused, expired visa and visa package (if applicable).  Requests to reissue or replace visas are considered on a case-by-case basis, and all applicants are required to re-establish their eligibility;  there is no guarantee that you will receive a new visa.

Entering and Departing the United States

After i have my visa, i will be able to enter the u.s., correct.

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to the U.S. port-of-entry, and the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) immigration inspector authorizes or denies admission to the United States. See  Admissions  on the CBP website.

How can I find out how long I am authorized to stay in the United States?

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, but allows a foreign citizen coming from abroad, to travel to the United States port-of entry (generally an airport or land border) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States, and determine how long a traveler may stay. At the port of entry, upon granting entry to the United States, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. immigration inspector, provides you an admission stamp or paper  Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record  in your passport. On this admission stamp or paper Form I-94, the U.S. immigration inspector records either a date or "D/S" (duration of status). If your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 contains a specific date, then that is the date by which you must leave the United States. Your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 is very important to keep in your passport, since it shows your permission to be in the United States. Review information about  Admission  on the CBP Website. Also, see  Duration of Stay .

I did not turn in my paper Form I-94 when I left the United States, what should I do?

If you failed to turn in your paper Form I-94 Departure Record, see  Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection  website for more information.

Lost and Stolen Visas

My passport with my visa was stolen, what should i do.

If your passport with your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 are lost or stolen, you must get them replaced immediately. There are a number of steps you need to take, learn more, see  Lost and Stolen Passports, Visas, and Form I-94s .

My visa was damaged. What should I do?

If your visa has been damaged in any way, you will need to reapply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. 

U.S. Citizens

I may have a claim to u.s. citizenship. can i apply for a u.s. visa.

With few exceptions, a person born in the United States acquires U.S. citizenship at birth. A state-issued birth certificate serves as evidence of citizenship. Review the  Apply for a Passport  webpage to learn more.

Persons born in countries other than the United States may have a claim to U.S. citizenship if either parent is a U.S. citizen under U.S. law. Learn more on the  Birth of U.S. Citizens Abroad  webpage.

If a person is a U.S. citizen, he or she is not eligible for a visa. Any prospective applicant believing he or she may have a claim to U.S. citizenship should have his or her citizenship claim adjudicated (officially determined) by a consular officer at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate before applying for a U.S. visa.  

I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?

All U.S. citizens, even dual citizens/nationals, must enter and depart the United States using his/her U.S. passport.

Further Questions

How do i know whether to contact the department of state or department of homeland security about my issue.

Contact the Department of State,  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  abroad with questions about U.S. visas, including application, the status of visa processing, and for inquiries relating to visa denial. Once in the United States, the traveler falls under the authority (jurisdiction) of Department of Homeland Security. The Department of Homeland Security,  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)  is responsible for the approval of all petitions, the authorization of permission to work in the United States, the issuance of extensions of stay, and change or adjustment of an applicant's status while the applicant is in the United States.

I would like to know if my friend has applied for a visa and what the status is. Who should I contact?

Your friend, the visa applicant. Under U.S. law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 222(f), visa records are confidential. Therefore, the visa applicant should inquire at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad where he/she applied regarding necessary information about visa application status. Because of confidentiality of visa records, you’ll need to ask your friend, the visa applicant your questions about whether a visa application was made, or a visa was issued or denied.

Visa Applicants from State Sponsors of Terrorism Countries

To find information regarding FAQ's from visa applicants from state sponsors of terrorism countries please  click here .

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

Global Visa Wait Times

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - English

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - French

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Spanish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Portuguese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Mandarin

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Arabic

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Italian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - German

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Vietnamese

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Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Armenian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Bulgarian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Czech

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Hungarian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Indonesian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Lithuanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Serbian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Thai

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Mongolian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Kurdish

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WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO BE AN ANDAVO ADVISOR?

We welcome luxury-focused travel professionals through two different avenues. The first path is open to seasoned luxury advisors who possess at least 5 years of professional experience and a well-established clientele generating $500,000
in annual sales. The second path, called the Advisor Advantage Program, is designed for new-to-industry advisors or those with annual sales of $250,000 
or less.

ARE THERE TRAINING PROGRAMS AVAILABLE TO INEXPERIENCED/
NEW ADVISORS?

Absolutely. Andavo Travel provides opportunities for new-to-industry advisors through our Advisor Advantage Program, which is overseen by our Professional Development Manager.

CAN I JOIN ANDAVO TRAVEL IF I DO NOT LIVE IN THE UNITED STATES?

No. Unfortunately, we are only able to support and accept independent business travel advisors living inside the U.S.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET STARTED?

Our process begins with a series of interviews. As an experienced advisor, once we receive your completed agreement and accompanying documents, we will evaluate them, and your implementation will begin upon approval. If approved, 
we can establish our collaboration within approximately five working days.

For those accepted into our Advisor Advantage Program, once we receive your completed agreement and accompanying documents, we will assess them 
and begin your implementation upon approval. If approved, we will begin implementation within five working days, and you will be enrolled in the 
upcoming session.

CAN I HAVE INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS WORKING UNDER ME?

Definitely. Their volume will be tracked separately but will roll-up to you. We pay you, and then you pay them.

CAN I OPERATE MY BUSINESS UNDER MY OWN COMPANY NAME?

Yes. As an independent travel advisor, you will operate under your own personal name or company name. In some cases (for example, if you choose to participate in Virtuoso’s award-winning marketing options), your company name may be followed by the phrase “An Affiliate of Andavo Travel”.

WILL I RETAIN OWNERSHIP OF MY CLIENTS?

Definitely. As a hosted advisor, your client list is kept private to you and remains in your ownership.

HOW ARE MY BOOKINGS SENT TO ANDAVO TRAVEL’S ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT FOR PAYMENT?

Andavo Travel’s accounting system is based on invoiced transactions. You can create your invoices through the GDS or ClientBase.

HOW OFTEN DO I GET PAID?

You are paid monthly via direct deposit on the 20th of the following month.

HOW DOES ANDAVO TRAVEL TRACK MY COMMISSIONS?

Andavo Travel’s accounting department tracks commissions internally . We do not send your data to a third party for tracking.

DO I NEED ERRORS & COMMISSIONS INSURANCE?

Yes, we require you carry a $1 million policy.

DO YOU HAVE A LEADS PROGRAM TO HELP ME FIND NEW CLIENTS?

On occasion, we have access to leads from Virtuoso or Christopherson Andavo Travel (our sister company) that we distribute to the most qualified agent. Our advisors will also have profiles on andavotravel.com and virtuoso.com , where consumers may contact you directly after finding your profile through various internet searches or other sources. We firmly believe this will be more beneficial 
to you than providing you with price-shopping leads that may compromise 
your commissions.

DO YOU PROVIDE ME WITH A CONSUMER WEBSITE CUSTOMIZED FOR 
MY AGENCY?

Andavo does not offer this service directly. However, customized consumer websites ARE available for a small fee through our membership with Virtuoso.

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Russia-related Designations; Issuance of Russia-related General Licenses and new and amended Frequently Asked Questions

The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is issuing Russia-related General License 88 , "Authorizing the Wind Down of Transactions Involving Certain Entities Blocked on February 23, 2024;" Russia-related General License 89 , "Authorizing the Wind Down and Rejection of Transactions Involving Certain Financial Institutions Blocked on February 23, 2024;" Russia-related General License 90 , "Authorizing Certain Transactions Related to Debt or Equity of, or Derivative Contracts Involving, Certain Entities Blocked on February 23, 2024;" and Russia-related General License 91 , "Authorizing Limited Safety and Environmental Transactions Involving Certain Blocked Persons or Vessels."

OFAC is also issuing three new, Russia-related Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs 1164-1166 ) and amending eight Russia-related Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs 886, 887, 1019, 1022, 1025, 1027, 1092, and 1154 ).

Additionally, OFAC has updated the following Lists:

The following vessels have been added to OFAC's SDN List: 

AKADEMIK ALEKSANDR KARPINSKIY (a.k.a. AK. A. KARPINSKIY; a.k.a. AKADEMIC ALEXANDER KARPINSKY) (UIZO) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1984; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8227238 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: JSC POLAR MARINE GEOSURVEY EXPEDITION).  AKADEMIK LAZEREV (UAJS) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1987; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8408985 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: SEVMORNEFTEGEOFIZIKA AO).  AKADEMIK NEMCHINOV (UETM) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1988; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8409032 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: SEVMORNEFTEGEOFIZIKA AO).  AKADEMIK PRIMAKOV (UBCQ4) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1999; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 9187514 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: SEVMORNEFTEGEOFIZIKA AO).  ALIREZA 1 (UAYK) General Cargo 1,972GRT Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1965; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 6703769 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: DALIR LTD).  BALTIYSKIY-111 (UDCC) General Cargo 1,926GRT Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1980; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 7612448 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: DALIR LTD).  BAVENIT (UAIO) Drilling Ship Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1986; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8406573 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: AMIGE AO).  GELENDZHIK (UFII) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1989; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8826230 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: YUZHMORGEOLOGIYA AO).  PROFESSOR LOGACHEV (UADZ) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1970; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8834691 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: SEVMORNEFTEGEOFIZIKA AO).  PROFESSOR RYABINKIN (a.k.a. PROFESSOR RJABINKIN) (UAJU) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1989; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8504923 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: SEVMORNEFTEGEOFIZIKA AO).  SKIF-V (UBRK6) General Cargo 2,463GRT Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1984; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8858087 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: LADOGA SHIPPING COMPANY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY).  YUZHMORGEOLOGIYA (UBSZ) Research Vessel Russia flag; Vessel Year of Build 1985; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 8724482 (vessel) [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: YUZHMORGEOLOGIYA AO). 

The following changes have been made to OFAC's Sectoral Sanctions Identifications List:

OTKRYTOE AKTSIONERNOE OBSHCHESTVO NOVO-VYATKA (a.k.a. NOVO VYATKA OPEN JOINT STOCK COMPANY; a.k.a. NOVO-VYATKA, OAO; a.k.a. OPEN JOINT STOCK COMPANY NOVO-VYATKA), d. 51 korp. 2 ul. Sovetskaya, Kirov, Kirovskaya obl. 610008, Russia; Street Sovetskaya, d. 51, Bldg. 2, Kirov 61008, Russia; Website http://www.nmz.ru ; Email Address [email protected] ; Executive Order 13662 Directive Determination - Subject to Directive 3; Secondary sanctions risk: Ukraine-/Russia-Related Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR 589.201 and/or 589.209; Registration ID 1034316578680; Tax ID No. 4345029946; Government Gazette Number 49616818; For more information on directives, please visit the following link: http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Pages/ukraine.aspx#directives [UKRAINE-EO13662] (Linked To: STATE CORPORATION ROSTEC). -to- OTKRYTOE AKTSIONERNOE OBSHCHESTVO NOVO-VYATKA (a.k.a. NOVO VYATKA OPEN JOINT STOCK COMPANY), d. 51 korp. 2 ul. Sovetskaya, Kirov, Kirovskaya obl. 610008, Russia; Executive Order 13662 Directive Determination - Subject to Directive 3; Secondary sanctions risk: Ukraine-/Russia-Related Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR 589.201 and/or 589.209; alt. Secondary sanctions risk: this person is designated for operating or having operated in a sector of the Russian Federation economy determined to support Russia's military-industrial base pursuant to section 11 of Executive Order 14024, as amended by Executive Order 14114.; Tax ID No. 4345029946 (Russia); Registration Number 1034316578680 (Russia); For more information on directives, please visit the following link: http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Pages/ukraine.aspx#directives [UKRAINE-EO13662] [RUSSIA-EO14024] (Linked To: STATE CORPORATION ROSTEC).

Unrelated Administrative List Updates:

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How to use Delta Companion Certificates to save hundreds of dollars on your next flight with your Plus-One

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.  

Premium airline credit cards bestow some eye-popping perks to cardholders to ensure they reserve an honored spot in their wallet for these cards—and are willing to pay the typically expensive annual fee. One of the most exclusive and rewarding benefits is a companion certificate. We’re going to walk you through the Delta Companion Certificate today. 

If you have an eligible co-branded Delta credit card that offers this perk, it can essentially wipe out the cost of your Plus-One’s ticket so you only have to pay the taxes and fees. When used strategically, it can save you a significant amount and help you enjoy your travels more.

What are Delta Companion Certificates?

A companion certificate is a benefit offered by some co-branded airline credit cards. Generally, it allows you to purchase one ticket for yourself at full price and get a second one (with certain restrictions) for your travel buddy on the same itinerary while paying just taxes and fees. 

Depending on factors such as routes and dates, this perk could potentially save you hundreds of dollars on that second ticket. Some well-known companion certificates in the travel credit card space include the Southwest Companion Pass , the Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare from Alaska Airlines, and of course, the Delta Companion Certificate. 

Delta offers two different companion certificates through four of its premium American Express cards—two on the personal side and two on the business side. These are as follows:

• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card ($650 annual fee)
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card ($650 annual fee)
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card ($350 annual fee)
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card ($350 annual fee)

As these are premium cards, they all charge expensive annual fees. But along with the yearly companion pass, these cards offer many other perks (such as a free checked bag) that may help wipe out the cost of the annual fee for frequent Delta flyers who can maximize the benefits. 

While both companion certificates are used in the same way, the one offered on the SkyMiles Platinum and SkyMiles Platinum Business cards is more restrictive and can only be used when flying main cabin. By contrast, the certificate that comes with Reserve and Reserve Business cards has no restrictions when it comes to the class of service you’re booking, allowing you to choose which cabin you’d like to fly, including first class.

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , see this page  

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card, see this page  

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, see this page  

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card, see this page 

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

See Rates and Fees

Intro Bonus

Reward Rates

• 3x Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases
• 1x Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
• Premium benefits for Delta flyers, like first checked bag free and access to the Delta Sky Club
• Companion certificate good for a round trip domestic Main Cabin, Comfort+ or First Class flight each year upon renewal of your card
• Access to Centurion Lounge network
• High annual fee
• Access to Delta Sky Club limited to 15 passes a year after February 2025
• Base earnings rate is low compared to other cards
• 15% discount on Delta award flights
• Travel protections including accident insurance, rental car coverage, trip cancellation and delay insurance
• Consumer protections including cell phone insurance, extended warranty, purchase and return protection

How to use your Delta Companion Certificates

Taking advantage of your companion certificate could not be easier. Once you have received the companion certificate from your eligible Delta Amex credit card—which happens upon renewal of your card every year—log in to your Delta SkyMiles account and head to your profile. From there, click “Use Certificates and eCredits” and select the certificate check box before clicking “continue.”

You will be presented with a flight search engine that looks much like any Delta flight search, but this one comes pre-populated with specific information to use your companion certificate, like searching for two passengers and pre-filtering out any ineligible fare classes for which your certificate can’t be redeemed. 

Depending on what card you have, you may have the option to select a first class or Comfort+ ticket, making these certificates a lot more valuable. Otherwise, your certificates are restricted to main cabin tickets, but you’re still saving the cost of the companion’s fare.

After selecting your flights, the checkout screen will show you the price of both of your tickets. Note in the example below that the $446.40 includes your full ticket plus only the taxes and fees for your companion.

Delta will also remind you here in this section that your companion won’t be earning miles for their ticket, and if you cancel your ticket after purchasing, you will not be able to reuse your companion certificate.

How to get Delta Companion Certificates

The only way to have access to a Delta Companion Certificate is by holding any of the four premium American Express cards that include the annual certificate as cardholder perk. 

Get a Delta Companion Certificate for less money

Delta SkyMiles Platinum or Platinum Business American Express cardholders earn a certificate that’s good for a main cabin, round-trip flight to a domestic, Caribbean or Central American destination each year after renewal of their card. 

You’ll pay $350 a year for the personal card and the same $350 a year for the business card, so this is the most affordable path to a Delta Companion Certificate. 

Debating if a SkyMiles Platinum might be the card for you? Here’s our guidance on how to analyze whether the Delta SkyMiles Platinum is worth it or not. 

Get a Delta Companion Certificate good for first class

Delta SkyMiles Reserve or Reserve Business American Express cardholders receive the most valuable of certificates, allowing them to redeem for a first class, Comfort+ or main cabin round-trip flight to a domestic, Caribbean or Central American destination each year after renewal of their card. The personal card is $650 per year and the business card is also $650.

However, while the price tag might give you sticker shock, note that these cards also come with coveted Delta Sky Club access (terms apply). Frequent travelers loyal to Delta probably won’t find another card that can match these two in terms of luxury perks. If you’re on the fence, take a look at our guide on deciding whether the Delta SkyMiles Reserve is worth it for your situation.  

How much taxes and fees will cost

Regardless of which card you have, your companion certificate lets you get your ticket at full price—and, for the friend or family member traveling with you, pay only the taxes and fees. For domestic itineraries, you can expect to pay up to $80 round trip, and for international ones, the taxes and fees can amount to up to $250 for a round-trip flight.

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

• 3x Earn 3 miles per dollar at hotels
• 2x Earn 2 miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets.
• 1x Earn 1 mile per dollar of eligible purchases.
• Benefits for Delta flyers, like first checked bag free, MQD Boost and MQD earned through spending
• Companion certificate good for a round trip domestic, Caribbean or Central American Main Cabin flight each year upon renewal of your card
• 15% Discount on Award Tickets on Delta Flights
• Limited travel insurance options
• Companion pass comes with limitations
• Statement credits toward Delta Stays, Resy and rideshare purchases
• Consumer protections including cell phone insurance, extended warranty, and purchase protection

How much are Delta Companion Certificates worth?

Companion certificates do not have a set dollar value associated with them and instead, the value you get varies depending on the destination you use them for and the dates—effectively making them a great tool to lower your travel costs to expensive destinations, provided the certificates can be used for those specific flights.

For example, by using a companion certificate from the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex, you could (at the time of writing) book a flight from Los Angeles to New York City over New Years in first class for a cost just slightly higher than you would pay for two main cabin tickets if you weren’t using your companion certificate.

The takeaway

For cardholders who don’t see the steep annual fees from these premium Delta credit cards as a barrier to enjoying the benefits they confer, the companion certificate alone can potentially bring enough value to make it worthwhile to carry one of these cards. The money you save on your travel buddy’s airline ticket can likely offset the annual fee if you’re savvy about how you redeem your certificate, making any other credits and benefits on your card an overall win.

Frequently asked questions

Can i redeem miles for my ticket when using a companion certificate.

No, when using a companion certificate, you must pay for your own ticket with your American Express card. You will not be able to redeem Delta SkyMiles to cover your ticket in this case. 

Do Delta Companion Certificates expire?

Yes. Your companion certificate will have an expiration date on it. You must both book and complete your trip by the expiration date listed. 

Can I use my companion certificate for first class flights?

Depending on the Delta credit card you have, you will be able to leverage these companion certificates for first class flights. If you hold the Delta SkyMiles Reserve or the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business, your companion certificate will be good not just for main cabin but also first class and Comfort+, and you can redeem them for round-trip domestic, Caribbean or Central American flights.

But, if you have the Delta SkyMiles Platinum or the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business, your companion certificates only allow for use in main cabin flights to the same destinations.

Do I earn miles or MQDs when using a Delta Companion Certificate?

Whoever is booked as the primary traveler—the one paying full price on the ticket—will accrue miles as they normally would. Their companion, however, will not have a mileage accruing ticket as they’re flying on an ineligible fare. 

Can I use my Delta Companion Certificate for someone else?

Yes, you can gift the companion certificate, as you do not need to be the primary passenger—essentially, you book primary and companion tickets for two travelers who are not yourself. 

Keep in mind the two passengers flying on this companion reservation have to be flying on the exact same flights for the same dates in order to use a companion certificate.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefits guide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.  

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.  

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

Guide to airline credit cards

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Vacation Rentals in Elektrostal

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Frequently asked questions

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