Paying a ‘Professional Travel Planning Fee’ is a game-changer for travellers, but you might be wondering, do we mean in a good way or bad? Well, we all know planning a holiday can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. In recent years, as online booking platforms gained popularity, many travellers opted for a DIY approach. However, there’s a compelling case for investing in the expertise of a professional travel advisor. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five reasons why an investment in your travel advisor is not only worthwhile but increasingly essential.

1. Expertise and Personalised Service

Travel advisors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. They are well-versed in destinations, airlines, hotels, tour operators, cruise ships, travel trends and all the intricacies of travel planning. When you pay a professional planning fee or service fee, you’re investing in their expertise. Travel advisors take the time to understand your preferences, needs, and budget, crafting a personalised itinerary that suits you perfectly. They can offer valuable insights, hidden gems, and local recommendations that you won’t find in online search results.

2. Time and Stress Savings

Planning a holiday can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule. When you work with a travel advisor, you’re essentially outsourcing the hassle. They handle all the research, bookings, and logistics, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming trip. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your advisor is taking care of every detail is priceless.

3. Access to Exclusive Deals and Upgrades

Travel advisors often have access to exclusive deals, discounts, and upgrades that are not available to the general public. They maintain strong relationships with hotels, airlines, tour operators, and cruise operators which can translate into significant savings for you. By paying a professional planning fee or service fee, you’re essentially investing in the potential for lower overall trip costs and the possibility of enjoying upgrades that enhance your travel experience. It’s no secret, that the buying power of a travel agency is more powerful than you searching the internet and hoping you’ve paid the best price.

4. Assistance During Unexpected Events

Travel doesn’t always go as planned. Flight delays, cancellations, weather disruptions, and unforeseen emergencies can throw a wrench into your itinerary. When you have a travel advisor, you have a dedicated advocate in your corner. They can quickly rebook your flights, find alternative accommodation, and assist with any unforeseen challenges, minimising the stress and inconvenience that accompany travel disruptions.

5. Tailored Recommendations and Itinerary Optimisation

Your travel advisor isn’t just a booking agent; they’re your travel partner. They take the time to understand your interests, preferences, and goals for your trip. This means they can recommend activities, excursions, and experiences that align with your passions. They can also help you optimise your itinerary to make the most of your time and budget, ensuring you have an unforgettable holiday.

As the author of this blog, I bring you over 30 years of travel industry experience. I’ve witnessed and navigated numerous world events, including September 11, the collapse of Ansett, the Bali Bombings, the Bird Flu, and the Boxing Day Tsunami in Thailand to name just a handful. Yet, I think we all know, the pandemic was by far the worst event the industry has ever seen. Unlike previous crises, the COVID-19 pandemic had a global and prolonged impact, causing widespread uncertainty and disrupting travel plans on an unprecedented scale. The travel industry was hit hard. Very hard.

Travelling will always be unpredictable so booking with a travel advisor is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. As someone who has witnessed the evolution of the travel industry and navigated its most challenging moments, I can attest that the value of a travel advisor is immeasurable. 

So, the next time you plan your holiday, consider partnering with a travel advisor. Picture yourself in a difficult situation far from home, and imagine the relief of making one phone call to your travel advisor, knowing that they will handle everything to make your journey as smooth and worry-free as possible. This is the true essence of what a travel advisor can offer – peace of mind in the face of uncertainty.

But before I sign off, I quickly want to share with you my thoughts on why booking with a travel advisor who charges a ‘professional planning fee’ is a superior choice over one who provides their services for free. Yes, I’ve said it. There are travel advisors out there who still don’t charge for their professional time and it is crazy. Here’s why.

Investment in Expertise and Dedication

When a travel advisor charges a professional planning fee, it signifies a commitment to providing you with top-tier service. They have invested time and resources in acquiring extensive knowledge and expertise in the travel industry. They are skilled individuals, often holding a Diploma or Degree in Travel and Tourism.  Their commitment ensures that they are dedicated to your travel experience and well-being, going above and beyond to craft a personalised itinerary and address your specific needs. Their motivation is to deliver exceptional value for the fee you pay, which often leads to a more satisfying and memorable trip.

Objective Recommendations

Travel advisors who charge a professional planning fee or service fee are often more objective in their recommendations. They prioritise your best interests rather than being influenced by commissions from specific suppliers or services. This impartiality allows them to provide you with a broader range of options and ensure that their suggestions genuinely align with your preferences and requirements. In essence, you’re paying for unbiased advice that focuses solely on delivering the best travel experience for you.

Enhanced Accessibility and Responsiveness

This is a big one. A travel advisor who charges a professional planning fee typically offers a higher level of accessibility and responsiveness. Your fee ensures that they prioritise your needs and concerns promptly. This can be especially crucial during unexpected travel disruptions, emergencies, or situations where quick decision-making is required. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your advisor is readily available to assist you, making your travel experience smoother and less stressful. Can you picture yourself making calls to airlines, hotels, and tour operators, rearranging all your future arrangements on your own while a cherished family member is hospitalised? It may sound intense, but it’s a reality for some. This should be the pivotal realisation in the blog: In times like these, genuine human connections hold more significance than relying on a chatbot.

While the idea of ‘free travel booking services’ might seem appealing on the surface, investing in a travel advisor who charges a ‘professional planning fee’ offers numerous advantages. You’re not just paying for a booking service; you’re investing in a dedicated professional who brings expertise, objectivity, and enhanced accessibility to the table. This investment ultimately results in a more tailored, stress-free, and rewarding travel experience, making it a wise choice for travellers seeking the best value and service.

Did you know that individuals who choose to pay the ‘professional planning fee’ often find themselves going on even more holidays? It’s a fascinating fact! These holidays consistently deliver exceptional value for the money spent. Furthermore, the reduced stress and streamlined planning process motivate travellers to venture to additional destinations, ensuring that each holiday surpasses their expectations. It’s not just about a fee; it opens up a world of extraordinary travel opportunities.

How can The Travel Trainer help?

The Travel Trainer plays a pivotal role in empowering travel business owners to craft a fee structure that not only aligns with their niche client audience but also reflects the specialist services they provide. Our expertise lies in helping agencies tailor fees that resonate deeply with clients, making them relatable and relevant. Even agencies that have been implementing fees for an extended period are coming to the realisation that not all of their services are encompassed within the fee structure. However, that’s a topic for another blog post.

We understand that trust is the cornerstone of every successful client-advisor relationship, and our approach ensures that clients not only comprehend the fees but also appreciate their significance. We bridge the gap between pricing and value, helping advisors and clients see that these fees aren’t just arbitrary costs but investments in a seamless, personalised, and enriching travel experience. Through transparent communication and a clear breakdown of the value clients receive, we help travel business owners foster trust, showcasing that these fees aren’t expenses but rather smart choices that enhance the journey and create lasting memories. Our tailored training empowers travel advisors to confidently discuss and implement their professional travel planning fees with clients.

And if you haven’t yet joined us inside the Specialist Travel Training Directory, head to the home page and click on the ‘Request Industry Access’ button. It’s FREE and offers industry training programs, webinars, memberships, discounts, and more. Open only to travel and tourism students and professionals.

Author, Sonja Leicester, 1 September, 2023

The Travel Trainer