Travel Agent Checklist

Selecting a Travel Agent

• Decide whether you are looking for an agent with a specialty such as cruises, or an agent who handles any type of travel.
• Ask your traveling friends for recommendations.
• Consider choosing a travel agent online.
• Research local agencies.
• Ask agencies for a list of current clients that you can contact.
• Check their credentials.
• Call agencies you've chosen based on your research.
• Narrow your choice of agency down to two or three.
• Review all rates offered and gauge the level of comfort you had with each.

Meeting with a Travel Agent

• Know where you want to go and when.
• Choose your mode of transportation.
• Determine a realistic budget.
• Talk to the agent about your specific plans and get written details.
• See if they can offer you any deals such as upgrades and coupons.
• Ask which services they charge for and how much will they cost.
• Check whether insurance is offered.
• Ask if they can be contacted 24 hours a day.
• Always read all the paperwork carefully before you sign it.

A Good Travel Agent

• Asks to outline your trip.
• Is open and honest with your answers.
• Will gladly put together a sample tours.
• Will describe availabilities in transportation, accommodations, and estimated costs.
• Will always take your needs into consideration.