How to Find a Travel Agent You Can Trust (A Step-by-Step Guide)
If you have searched "how to find a travel agent," you have probably noticed how many options there are: big online sites, local storefronts, membership clubs, independent advisors, and agent directories. The good news is that finding the right person is not complicated once you know what to look for. This guide walks you through it step by step, with a checklist, interview questions, and red flags, so you can choose an experienced, knowledgeable, reliable travel agent with confidence.
Quick answer: Decide what kind of trip you want, gather a short list from referrals and specialist agencies, check credentials, interview two or three agents with the questions below, and choose the one who listens, explains costs clearly, and stays reachable. At 1923 Travel, every agent is qualified to plan any type of trip, and planning is free. Find a travel agent now.
Step 1: Know what kind of trip you are planning
Before you contact anyone, jot down the basics. It makes the first conversation faster and helps you spot an agent with the right experience.
Trip type: theme park, cruise, all-inclusive resort, honeymoon, family reunion, group trip, or a multi-country tour
Who is traveling: ages, mobility or dietary needs, and anyone who needs extra support
Dates and flexibility: fixed school breaks or open weeks
Budget range: a comfortable total, not just a nightly rate
Level of help: full planning, or help with one piece like a cruise cabin or resort room
Step 2: Build a short list
Ask people you trust. Friends, family, and coworkers who travel often usually know an agent they would book with again.
Look for specialists. Search for agents who focus on your trip type, such as an Epic Universe travel agent, a Royal Caribbean travel agent, or a Sandals travel agent.
Use directories carefully. Industry directories can help, but a listing is only a starting point. You still want to talk with the person.
Do not limit yourself to your zip code. Most planning happens by phone, email, and video, so experience matters more than distance. 1923 Travel is headquartered in Raleigh, NC and serves clients in all 50 states.
Step 3: Check credentials and business details
Anyone can call themselves a travel agent, so take a few minutes to check.
Industry accreditation. 1923 Travel is CLIA-accredited. CLIA is Cruise Lines International Association, the cruise industry's main trade group. Other common industry bodies include ASTA and IATAN; ask any agency which ones apply and verify with the organization.
Seller of travel registration. Some states require it. Ask whether it applies to the agency.
A real business presence. A website, clear contact details, and consistent answers.
Reviews. Look for detailed reviews that describe how problems were handled, not just star ratings.
Step 4: Interview two or three agents
The first conversation tells you a lot. A good agent asks about you before pitching anything.
Questions to ask a travel agent:
How many trips like mine have you planned?
How do you get paid, and will I pay any planning fees?
What are your hours, and how quickly do you usually reply?
How do you handle flight delays, cancellations, or changes after booking?
Will you watch for price drops or new promotions after I book?
Can you explain cancellation rules and travel insurance in plain language?
Who helps me if you are unavailable while I am traveling?
What would you suggest I do differently from my original plan, and why?
Step 5: Understand how travel agents are paid
Many travelers worry an agent will cost more. At 1923 Travel, planning is free because suppliers such as cruise lines, resorts, and theme parks pay the agency. You pay the same as booking direct, and sometimes less, because an agent can spot promotions and value you might miss. Some agencies do charge fees, which is fine if you understand what they cover. Just ask up front.
Experienced travel agent | Booking on your own | |
Price | Same as direct, sometimes less | Supplier price |
Planning help | Personal recommendations | Your own research |
Promotions after booking | Agent watches for them | You check yourself |
When plans change | Agent helps sort it out | You call the supplier |
Step 6: Watch for red flags
Pressure to pay immediately without a written quote
Vague answers about fees, cancellation, or insurance
No verifiable accreditation or business details
Slow or inconsistent replies before you have even booked
Recommendations that ignore your budget or needs
Why experience matters most
An online booking site can sell you a room. An experienced, knowledgeable agent helps you choose the right one. They know which cabin locations are quieter, which resort fits a couple versus a family, when to book theme park hotels, and what to do at 6am when a flight is cancelled. A reliable agent also stays with you after booking: tracking payment dates, reminding you about check-in windows, and helping if anything changes.
That is why we built 1923 Travel around experienced agents. Every one of our agents is qualified to handle any type of trip, so whether you want a cruise, a Universal and Epic Universe vacation, or a Sandals getaway, you get the same level of care.
How it works at 1923 Travel
Tell us about your trip on our Get a Quote form, or use Find a Travel Agent.
Meet your agent by phone, email, or video, 7am to 7pm ET, every day.
Review clear options tailored to your budget and travelers.
Book with confidence and enjoy support until you are home.
Ready to find your travel agent? Find a Travel Agent or Get a Free Quote.
FAQ
How do I find a good travel agent near me?
Start with referrals and specialists for your trip type, check credentials, and interview two or three agents. Since planning happens by phone and video, a nationwide agency like 1923 Travel can help wherever you live.
Is it free to use a travel agent?
At 1923 Travel, yes. Suppliers pay the agency, and you pay the same as booking direct, sometimes less. Some other agencies charge fees, so always ask.
What questions should I ask a travel agent?
Ask about their experience with your trip type, how they are paid, their hours and response time, how they handle changes, and whether they watch for promotions after you book.
What credentials should a travel agent have?
Look for recognized industry accreditation. 1923 Travel is CLIA-accredited. Ask any agency what they hold and verify with the issuing organization.
Do I need a local travel agent?
No. Experience matters more than location. 1923 Travel is headquartered in Raleigh, NC and plans trips for clients in all 50 states.
What kinds of trips can 1923 Travel plan?
Theme parks including Universal and Epic Universe, cruises including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Alaska, Sandals and Beaches resorts, and much more. All of our agents are qualified to handle any type of trip.
When can I reach my agent?
7am to 7pm ET, every day.
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