Using a travel agent normally makes life easier, yet there are problems. Here are some travel agent tips.
Travel Agent consumer tips from the FTC:
Be wary of “great deals” and low-priced offers. Few legitimate businesses can afford to give away products and services of real value or substantially undercut other companies’ prices;
Don’t be pressured into buying. A good offer today will be a good offer tomorrow. Legitimate businesses don’t expect you to make snap decisions;
Ask detailed questions. Find out exactly what the price covers and what it doesn’t. Be sure to ask about additional charges, as well;
If you do decide to buy, get all information about the trip in writing. Once you receive the written information, make sure it reflects what you were told over the phone and the terms you agreed to;
Don’t give your credit card number or bank information over the phone unless you know the company with whom you are working;
Be aware that when you place your business card or name into a drawing for a free vacation, you may be added to a telemarketing call-out list;
Be aware that your personal information can also be collected via the Internet when you are visiting travel-related sites seeking deals on trips or airfare;
Don’t send money by messenger or overnight mail. Some “scam artists” may ask you to send them money immediately. If you pay with cash or check, as opposed to using a credit card, you lose your right to dispute any potential fraudulent charges under the Fair Credit Billing Act;
When in doubt, say “no.” If you have any doubts about the trustworthiness of a Travel agent company, trust your instincts. It’s less risky to turn down the offer and hang up the phone.
Using a travel agent can be a great way to plan your vacation. Be wise and trust your instinct on and travel deal even when using a travel agent.
Tags: Trael Agent, Travel Agents, vacation planning, trips
March 31st, 2006 at 1:26 pm
[…] A travel agency is a business that sells travel related products and services to end-user customers on behalf of third party travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels and cruise lines. […]