Should You Hire a Travel Agent in 2025?
In a world where every trip can be planned with just a few clicks, you might wonder: What does a travel agent do in 2025? or Is it worth going to a travel agent anymore? While many people prefer to book their own travel, travel agents still offer valuable services that could save you time, money, and headaches. In this guide, we’ll explore when it’s beneficial to hire a travel agent, when you should skip one, and what to expect from them in 2025.
What Does a Travel Agent Do in 2025?
Travel agents have evolved with the times, offering more than just booking flights and accommodations. In 2024, travel agents provide highly personalized, curated experiences that you may not easily find online. They handle complex logistics, like coordinating multi-city tours, securing hard-to-get reservations, or arranging luxury experiences that require insider knowledge. Whether it’s navigating tricky visa requirements or planning an off-the-beaten-path itinerary, travel agents ensure a hassle-free, organized trip.
Additionally, agents have access to deals that may not be publicly available online, including exclusive discounts, upgrades, and packages.
Is It Worth Going to a Travel Agent?
Whether it's worth going to a travel agent depends largely on the complexity of your trip. If you're planning a simple weekend getaway, you might not need one. But for more elaborate trips, such as international vacations, cruises, or multi-destination tours, hiring a travel agent can save you time and effort while also offering perks like room upgrades, event tickets, or guided tours. Plus, agents often help you handle unexpected disruptions like canceled flights or sudden changes in travel restrictions, ensuring you're never stranded.
For example, if you're traveling to multiple countries with different visa requirements, or you're planning a honeymoon with luxury experiences, travel agents are experts at making your trip seamless and unforgettable.
When Should You Not Use a Travel Agent?
There are definitely times when you should skip using a travel agent. If you're traveling domestically or on a tight budget, booking everything yourself through travel apps or websites might be the better option. DIY travel planning is more suitable for travelers who enjoy researching and are willing to take the time to find deals. If you're the type who loves the thrill of planning and enjoys controlling every aspect of your trip, planning it yourself may be more rewarding.
Is There a Future for Travel Agents?
Despite the rise of online booking platforms, travel agents continue to thrive in 2024 by offering personalized services and expert insights that you can’t always find through self-booking platforms. They are especially relevant for travelers seeking unique experiences, complex itineraries, or VIP treatment. The travel industry, particularly after the disruptions caused by the pandemic, has become more complicated with ever-changing travel restrictions, making agents valuable resources for staying up to date with the latest requirements.
In fact, many travelers now seek out agents for help navigating the complexities of post-pandemic travel. As travelers increasingly value curated, personalized experiences, the demand for knowledgeable agents who can provide insider access and perks continues to grow.
The Fun of Planning Your Trip Yourself
Half the joy of travel is in the planning. For some, creating their itinerary feels like the first part of the adventure. DIY travel allows you to research destinations, explore local cultures, and customize every detail of your trip. Planning yourself can be exciting and rewarding—whether it's finding hidden gems, learning about the history of a place, or carefully crafting a budget-friendly itinerary that aligns with your needs.
Alternative to the Safety Provided by a Travel Agent
Travel agencies can offer a variety of safety measures for a worry-free travel experience. From providing financial assistance through insurance to dealing with unexpected situations, travel agents are there to provide you safety (If you want to learn more about travel insurance and how it works, then you can read out this following blog: Do You Really Need Travel Insurance in 2025?). However, you may not opt to have a travel agent and go on your own to explore the mysteries of the world. Many travelers do that and keep on learning as they continue to travel but does that mean they compromise on their safety? The answer is no. There are many ways to ensure safety and tackle travel disruptions. Among such options, using a tour guide platform can ensure one about the appropriate places to visit through legitimate channels. “GuruWalk” is a platform that allows you to find and book free and budget tours with trained and trusted local guides. These tours offer a fantastic way to explore new cities and engage in authentic local culture without the high price. Instead of relying on traditional travel agents, these local trusted guides can be an exciting way to explore the culture of different cities. If you want to book a trip to your desired city through “GuruWalk”, go through the following link: https://www.guruwalk.com/?ref=sfiqhookob2989c439ob
Researching Your Trip
Even if you choose to work with a travel agent, doing your own research enhances your travel experience. Research helps you adjust to cultural differences, learn about unique local customs, and discover hidden spots that might not be included in a pre-arranged itinerary. When you know more about your destination, you’re better prepared to interact with locals, navigate public transportation, and make informed decisions on activities and dining.
Our Top Travel Agent Picks for Europe Travel
Many of you may decide to hire a travel agent. However, you can still be rattled by the huge number of travel agents available to you. In short, choosing a trustworthy travel agent can be quite draining. That is why, we present you with our top picks of travel agencies in Europe.
| Travel Agency | Link | Most Available | Most Affordable | Most Luxurious |
| Expedia UK | https://expedia.com/affiliate/8mcP8T8 | High | High | Medium |
| Sunshine.co.uk | https://www.sunshine.co.uk/ | Medium | High | Low |
| Hays Travel | https://www.haystravel.co.uk/ | High | High | Medium |
| TUI UK | https://www.tui.co.uk/ | High | Medium | Medium |
| Virgin Holidays | https://www.virginholidays.co.uk/ | Medium | Medium | High |
| Teletext Holidays | https://www.teletextholidays.co.uk/ | Medium | Low | Medium |
| London Travel Service | https://www.londontravelservice.com/ | High | Medium | Medium |
| The Travel Hack | https://www.thetravelhack.com/ | Medium | High | Medium |
| Mr & Mrs Smith | https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/ | Low | High | High |
| Black Tomato | https://www.blacktomato.com/ | Medium | High | High |
| Scott Dunn | https://www.scottdunn.com/ | Low | High | High |
| Western & Eastern | https://www.westernoriental.com/ | Medium | Medium | High |
| Audley Travel | https://www.audleytravel.com/ | Low | Medium | High |
| Intrepid Travel | https://www.intrepidtravel.com/uk/ | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Responsible Travel | https://www.responsibletravel.com/ | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether or not to hire a travel agent in 2024 ultimately depends on your travel style, the complexity of your trip, and the level of personal involvement you want in planning. For luxury vacations, multi-destination itineraries, or trips requiring specific logistics like visas or group bookings, a travel agent can be a huge asset. However, for simpler trips, self-planning can be more fun, affordable, and rewarding. Whichever route you take, make sure to do your research and plan for a safe, enjoyable trip!