Do People Still Use Travel Agents in the Age of Apps?

September 9, 2025

In a world dominated by travel apps, you might wonder if there’s still a place for travel agents. Surprisingly, many people continue to rely on travel agents for their invaluable expertise. In this article, we'll explore the key benefits of travel agents, including various travel agent benefits, as well as valuable resources for those considering a travel agent career, such as certification & training resources, host agency support, and supplier partnerships. Let’s dive into these aspects of the travel industry!

Why Choose a Travel Agent?

Expertise at Your Fingertips

While travel applications provide endless options, they can also feel overwhelming. Travel agents are skilled in laying out personalized travel plans that cater to your individual needs and desires. Here are some key benefits:

- Tailored Recommendations: Travel agents take the time to understand your preferences, budget, and travel style. They are trained to create unique experiences for each client.

- Time-Saving: Comparing flights, hotels, and activities online can consume your whole day. A travel agent handles this process efficiently, saving you precious time.

- Problem Solving: Flight cancellations, weather changes, and other unexpected bumps can occur during travel. Travel agents are adept at quickly managing these situations, often providing better solutions than available through an app.

Access to Better Deals

One of the best-kept secrets about working with a travel agent is their access to exclusive deals through supplier partnerships. Thanks to these relationships, travel agents often have access to discounts and packages that may not be available to the general public. This could lead to significant savings, even after accounting for a travel agent's fee.

Here's what to expect:

- Exclusive Offers: Travel agents frequently provide access to special rates and promotions from hotels, airlines, and tour operators.

- Group Discounts: If you're organizing a family reunion or wedding, travel agents are skilled at negotiating group rates and arranging added amenities.

- Added Value: Sometimes, it’s more about gaining value than simply lowering costs. Travel agents can secure complimentary upgrades, meals, or unique experiences to enhance your trip.

Steps to Becoming a Travel Agent

If you’ve been convinced of the benefits of travel agents or are considering a travel agent career yourself, you'll find numerous certification & training resources to help you get started.

Certification Programs

While formal education is not required, many prospective travel agents pursue certification programs to enhance their credibility and skills. Here’s a quick overview of some available options:

1. Travel Agent Certification: Various institutions offer foundational certification that covers the essentials of travel planning, customer service, and travel technology.

2. Specialized Courses: Look for programs that focus on niche areas, such as luxury travel, adventure travel, or sustainable tourism.

3. Self-Paced Online Courses: Websites like Coursera and Udemy provide free or affordable courses to help you understand the nuances of the travel industry.

Gain Experience

Before diving into a travel agent career, consider working under a seasoned agent. Many agencies offer internships or assistant positions that provide hands-on experience.

Join a Host Agency

A smart way to kickstart your career is by joining a host agency support system. These organizations offer tools, training, and resources that can propel your success. They also provide:

- Training Programs: Comprehensive training covering everything from customer service to booking systems.

- Marketing Support: Access to marketing tools and templates that can help you expand your client base.

- Networking Opportunities: Connecting with other travel agents allows you to learn from their experiences and gain insights into the industry.

The Evolving Landscape of Travel

It's essential to note that while apps and online booking platforms are popular, they cannot fully replace the nuanced services a travel agent provides. The travel industry is constantly evolving, and travel agents are adapting too!

Embracing Technology

Many travel agents have embraced technology to enhance their services. Apps and booking platforms streamline operations, allowing agents to quickly filter results to meet client needs. Additionally, agents utilize virtual reality (VR) tools to offer potential clients immersive previews of their travel experiences, delivering a depth that apps alone can't capture.

Sustainability and Ethical Travel

As travelers become more conscious of their impact, many seek sustainable options. Travel agents are uniquely positioned to guide clients in finding eco-friendly hotels, responsible tour operators, and practices that benefit local economies. This exciting and growing niche offers an opportunity for travel agents to thrive.

Conclusion

In the age of travel apps, the expertise and personal touch offered by travel agents remain invaluable. From tailored recommendations to exclusive deals through supplier partnerships, travel agents present a comprehensive service that mobile applications often cannot replicate. For anyone considering a travel agent career, various certification & training resources are available, along with host agency support, to help you embark on this vibrant journey.

Whether you’re thinking about becoming a travel agent or are simply curious about the benefits of using one, it’s clear that travel agents maintain an essential role in the travel industry. So, the next time you're planning a trip, consider reaching out to a travel agent—they may just make your journey that much smoother!

If you have more questions about how to become a travel agent or want additional resources, feel free to reach out to Gateway Travel today!