What Is a Travel Agent? (And Do People Still Use Them?)

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “What actually is a travel agent?” or “Do people still use them?” — this is for you.

With hundreds of booking sites and apps at your fingertips, it’s easy to think travel agents are a thing of the past. But in reality? They’re more in-demand than ever.

Let’s break it down — what a travel agent really does, how they get paid, who uses them (and why), and whether this is a career you could step into yourself.

What is a Travel Agent?

A travel agent is a professional who helps clients plan, book, and manage their travel — from flights and hotels to package holidays, cruises, honeymoons, group trips, and everything in between.

But the best travel agents do more than just book. They save you time, money, and stress, with:

• Expert advice based on real experience

• Access to trusted suppliers and exclusive deals

• Support before, during and after your trip

• Tailored recommendations that match your style and budget

In short? A travel agent is your personal travel concierge.

Do People Still Use Travel Agents?

Absolutely. And in fact, more people are coming back to travel agents after struggling with:

• Overwhelming options on booking sites

• Hidden fees or unclear T&Cs

• Delays, cancellations, or poor customer service

• Getting stuck when things go wrong

In a world where flexibility, support and peace of mind matter more than ever, having a human behind your holiday can make all the difference.

Is It More Expensive to Use a Travel Agent?

Here’s the big surprise for most people:

No — travel agents are usually free to use.

Most travel agents earn commission from the suppliers they book with (not from you). So the price you see online is often the same through an agent.

Plus, when you book with someone like me, you get:

• Upgrades and perks where possible

• Advice on the best value, not just the cheapest price

• A single point of contact who cares

What Types of Travel Do Agents Book?

As a modern travel agent, I can book:

• Family holidays

• Honeymoons

• Cruises

• Disney & theme park trips

• City breaks

• Luxury escapes

• Group trips, retreats & more

  
  

And because I work with a massive range of trusted brands you’re getting industry-wide choice with personal service.

Can Anyone Become a Travel Agent?

Short answer: yes.

Longer answer: if you’ve got passion, curiosity and the drive to learn — absolutely.

I joined the industry through InteleTravel, with no formal travel background, just a love of booking trips and helping people. Now I earn commission on holidays I book for others — and I’ve built a side business that could grow into full-time freedom.

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel — just join the right platform and team.

I work under Catch Flights Catch Freedom — a network of supportive, motivated people who guide, train and encourage you every step of the way.

So, What Is a Travel Agent Really?

A travel agent is someone who:

• Helps you plan trips that actually deliver what you want

• Takes the stress out of travel planning

• Works behind the scenes to make sure your holiday goes smoothly

• Earns commission from suppliers (not your bank account)

• Is your go-to support when things go wrong

And for me? Being a travel agent is also about:

• Building a business that fits around my life

• Helping others do the same

• And turning a passion for travel into income and impact

Want to find out more about how it works — or how you could become a travel agent too?

Drop me a message on Instagram or email annie@montyandmills.com

Let’s make travel smarter — and work work for you, not against you.

Annie x