Many people think planning a road trip is easy, and in some ways, they’re right. The internet makes it simple to research destinations and plan routes. However, after crisscrossing the U.S. and driving through Canada several times, I still find a travel agent to be incredibly helpful. Often, this means using AAA, but I’ve also had great success with small agencies.
I’m not a travel agent, and this post isn’t sponsored. I simply want you to have a great vacation! The entire travel industry has changed since the pandemic. Attractions now require timed tickets, surge pricing is more common, and new parking fees can be a hassle. Vacation planning can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why I wanted to share five ways a travel agent can help you plan a road trip.
- Scenic stops and route optimization
Travel agents can help you plot out the best route for your destination. They can also often help you find hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. I experienced this firsthand on my first drive to Alaska. The Mall of America wasn’t on my radar until the travel agent helped me optimize my stops. I added it to my itinerary when she pointed out that my route took me past the exit. I got there too early for shopping but still made a point to see it. - Itinerary planning
The travel agent did something for me that a website couldn’t do: she helped me plan stops based on my drive time and interests. She also booked hotel rooms and offered to get attraction tickets for me. It doesn’t cost anything to use a travel agent—they earn a commission by booking hotel rooms, rental cars, attraction tickets, etc., for you. - Insurance
Trip insurance never crossed my mind until talking with a travel agent. We were planning a trip to the amazing Walt Disney World. I didn’t think I would need trip insurance since we were driving. Then she pointed out that driveway-to-driveway insurance could help if the kids got sick and we needed to cancel or if anything unforeseen happened. Given we’re talking about my (now adult) kids, I took the insurance. - Emergency support
My daughter and I were on the way to Alaska when my car’s timing belt broke. I needed a tow, a repair shop, a hotel near the repair shop and a short term rental car. I called the auto company for the tow. The travel agent took care of everything else. - Discounts and deals
Travel agents get the inside scoop on sales and special deals. This can help you save big time. We would never have found out about Disney’s free dining plan if my travel agent hadn’t gotten an alert. They also get word about rental car sales, hotel promotions and even restaurant deals that can help you save.
These are some of the many ways that a travel agent can help with your next road trip. Their insider knowledge, support and itinerary planning can help your next adventure become the Great American Road trip of your dreams.
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