Top Questions To Ask Your Travel Agent

If you are thinking of booking travel or your next family vacation through a travel agent, here is an important list of questions to ask your potential travel agent.  Asking questions prior to selecting a travel agent to assist you can ensure you select just the right agent to plan and book your itinerary. 

Destination

1. What destinations work well with my/our specific interests? 
2. What is the best time of year to travel to this destination?
3. What excursions and/or activities do you suggest?

Agent History

1. What is the area of your agency’s expertise?
2. What is your personal travel history? 
3. Have you visited my travel destination? 
4. How much experience do you have booking travel and excursions to this area?

Travel Insurance/Documents

1. Do you offer travel insurance or refunds if my trip is cancelled?
2. What documents do I need to carry with me when I travel? 
3. Do I need a passport or visa?

Fees

1. Transaction Fees:
   a.  Are all purchases (hotel, cars, excursions, and airfare) placed into one booking and charged a single transaction fee? 
   b. Do you charge separate transaction fees for each booking?
   c. Do you charge a transaction fee for changes to hotel, tickets or car rental? If so, is this fee waived if changes are done within a certain time period?
2. Are there cheaper alternatives to the selections you are making for my trip?
   a. Can I save money by flying at different times of day?
   b. Can I save money by choosing a room at a different hotel?
   c.  What days of the week are the least expensive for travel and touring?
3. What deposits or up-front trip costs will I have to pay?
4. Are my tickets refundable or can they be used in for a future trip for a fee?

Communication

1. How/when can I reach you when on my trip in case of emergency?  Do you have a toll-free number?
2. Are you willing to be available after business hours if necessary?