As a travel agent, it’s no secret that your clients expect the best deals when planning their getaways. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start.
Luckily, there are many ways to unlock the best deals for travel agents that can get your clients more bang for their buck. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand how to snag the best deals for your clients.
1. Use Travel Agent-Focused Websites
Using travel agent-focused websites like Agent Studio, Travel Impressions, and Travelport can give you access to exclusive deals that may not be available on other sites. These websites cater specifically to travel agents, and their business model is built on passing along discounted rates to agents.
2. Take Advantage of Hotel Packages
Sometimes the cheapest way to book a hotel is through a package that includes other amenities like car rentals, meals, or tickets to nearby attractions. Hotel packages can add excellent value to your clients’ stays and save them money in the long run. Websites like Groupon, Travelzoo, and LivingSocial can also offer special hotel deal packages.
3. Book Flights with Stopovers
Booking flights with stopovers can often lead to significant discounts. These flights usually have a more extended travel time, and while it may take a bit longer to reach the final destination, it can also give clients the opportunity to explore another destination of their choice while saving money in the process.
4. Book at the Right Time
Booking travel at the right time can make all the difference. Historically, the best time to book flights is on Tuesday afternoon or on the weekends, and booking hotel rooms mid-week can also save money. However, timing is everything, and the best deals may occur during off-seasons or when vendors want to fill their bookings.
5. Join Travel Agent Associations
Joining travel agent associations can also give you access to exclusive deals for members. For example, the American Society of Travel Agents offers discounted rates on everything from travel insurance to destination packages.
6. Build Relationships with Vendors
Building relationships with vendors can lead to future rewards. Promoting certain hotels or destinations in exchange for exclusive pricing is a win-win for both parties involved. Vendors will appreciate your business and the business you bring them, and your clients get excellent deals on their travel.
As a travel agent, unlocking the best deals for your clients takes planning, research, and building relationships with vendors. By using travel agent-focused websites, hotel packages, booking flights with stopovers, booking at the right time, joining travel agent associations, and building relationships with vendors, you can secure the best deals for your clients while also increasing your client base. As travel picks up in the wake of the pandemic, having the edge when it comes to locking in the best deals can set you apart from the competition.
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