Factors to Consider Choosing a Travel Agency

Travel agencies are a great option for convenient and affordable travel. However, choosing a trusted travel agency is crucial to avoid scams. So, what should you consider when selecting a travel agency for your trip?

Reputation and Reviews

Your top concern when choosing a travel agency should be its reputation. Start by researching online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Websites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and SiteJabber can provide valuable insights into other travelers’ experiences. A reputable travel agency helps you avoid scams.

Look for agencies with consistently high ratings and positive feedback. Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family are also very helpful.

If you check out ASAP Tickets reviews, you’ll see that the travel agency has high scores across different review platforms with authentic reviews written by real customers.

Accreditations and Certifications

When choosing a travel agency, verify if the agency is accredited by recognized organizations such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN). These accreditations indicate that an agency adheres to industry standards and ethical practices. ASAP Tickets is a member of both organizations and also has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Certification from local tourism boards is also a good indicator of credibility.

A Travel Agency’s Service Convenience

A good travel agency should offer a wide range of services to meet your needs. This includes flight bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals, and other travel services. A one-stop-shop can save you time and effort in planning your trip.

When you call a travel agency such as ASAP Tickets, you know you’ll get help in one place. An agent will offer different booking options, so you won’t have to visit dozens of airline websites looking for the best deal. This saves you precious time, which you can use to plan your trip!

Expertise and Specialization

Consider whether a travel agency has expertise in the destination you plan to visit. Knowledgeable travel agents can provide helpful insights and tailor itineraries that are right for you.

ASAP Tickets’ travel experts know all the major global destinations that our partner airlines travel to. What’s more, they can assist customers in over 20 languages, making it easier for those whose first language isn’t English to book a flight.

A Travel Agency’s Savings and Transparency

Cost is a significant factor, yet the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Check that the travel agency offers transparent pricing without hidden fees. Ask for a detailed price breakdown and compare it with other agencies. Remember to ask the travel agent if the price includes luggage and seat selection.

Good travel agencies will offer competitive rates that are cheaper than prices you can find online. Travel agencies can offer such prices because of their partnerships with airlines or access to consolidator fares. ASAP Tickets has access to both. We work with over 70 airlines directly to offer unpublished fares, and we have access to consolidator rates through our head company, Trevolution.

Customer Service Factors

Excellent customer service is crucial, especially if unexpected issues arise during your trip.

You can check to see if an agency is responsible by calling or emailing them and seeing how quickly they respond. Agencies like ASAP Tickets, which provide 24/7 support, can be particularly helpful.

Payment Options and Security

Check the payment options offered by the travel agency. Secure payment methods, such as credit cards and reputable online payment systems, provide an added layer of protection. Avoid agencies that only accept cash payments or wire transfers, as these methods can be risky.

Also, see if a travel agency offers financing for trips or a Book Now, Pay Later policy. These can be very useful for last-minute flights.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right travel agency can enhance your travel experience by providing convenience, safety, and peace of mind. By considering factors such as reputation, accreditations, services, expertise, pricing, customer service, and payment security, you can make an informed decision and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.