Planning your next family or dream holiday can be an exciting adventure in itself. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical island escape, a multi-city European tour, or a road trip, the process starts with one big decision: how to plan it. 

Should you consult a travel agent, or do it all yourself by booking directly? 

Both methods have their advantages, and weighing them carefully can not only shape your experience but also potentially save you time, stress, and money.

Booking your own holiday directly—through airline, hotel, and activity websites—gives you full control and often a sense of empowerment. Many people enjoy researching destinations, comparing prices on aggregators like Skyscanner or Booking.com, and customising itineraries to the hour. It’s perfect if you’re flexible with dates and already have a clear idea of where you want to go. You might also be able to score last-minute deals, flash sales, or loyalty rewards with specific airlines or hotels. However, this DIY approach comes with some drawbacks. Hidden fees, complex cancellation policies, and the stress of coordinating flights, transfers, and accommodation can quickly become overwhelming, especially if your holiday includes multiple destinations.

On the other hand, using a travel agent—either in person or online—brings a different kind of value to your holiday planning. Travel agents offer access to insider knowledge, packaged deals, and exclusive rates that may not be advertised publicly. They often have access to bulk fares or special offers through global distribution systems that consumers don’t. This can translate to better deals, particularly when you’re booking for a family or planning a complex itinerary. More importantly, travel agents are valuable allies when things go wrong. Delayed flights, cancelled bookings, or unforeseen emergencies can ruin a trip if you’re unprepared. A good travel agent acts as your advocate, handling the rebooking and liaising with service providers on your behalf.

The perception that travel agents are more expensive is increasingly outdated. In many cases, the agent’s commission is paid by hotels or tour companies, not directly by you. Additionally, the time and money saved by avoiding booking mistakes or taking advantage of bundled offers can outweigh any minor service fee. Advice from a professional who knows visa requirements, travel insurance intricacies, and even the best seats on a plane can be priceless.

Tips for Making the Choice:

• Consider the complexity of your trip – If it involves multiple destinations, different airlines, or tours, a travel agent can streamline it.
• Think about your schedule – If you’re time-poor, an agent can save hours of research and booking time.
• Be honest about your confidence level – If you’re unsure about travel regulations, currencies, or insurance, professional advice is worth it.
• Shop around – Even if you plan to book through an agent, research basic prices yourself first so you can compare value.
• Ask for itemised quotes – Whether booking direct or through an agent, understanding what’s included can avoid unexpected costs later.

So whether it’s a sun-drenched resort in Fiji, a European rail adventure, or a driving holiday through the Outback, planning your dream holiday doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. A little professional advice might just be the smartest first step on your journey. Where will your next adventure take you?

If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.

This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)