ASTA survey touts cost, time saving benefits of agents

Saturday, 03 May, 2016 0

The American Society of Travel Agents is touting the role of traditional agents as key to saving time and money for consumers.

A new independent study, ‘Best of Both Worlds: Quantifying How Travel Agents Save Consumers Time and Money’ says customers typically save $452 per trip and up to four hours spent on travel planning when they use an agent.

The ASTA survey found 69% of respondents said agents helped save time in trip planning and booking and 64% got the best deal through a travel agent.

The study, which was conducted by market research firm TNS Global, and funded by Carnival Corp, revealed 66% said agents help them avoid any costly mistakes.

It said 23% of customers use a traditional agent, 25% use online travel agency websites and 47% booked direct through supplier website.

Agents fared well in traditionally strong segments, coming out on top for booking river cruises and matching online suppliers for ocean cruises and tour packages.

Agents also did well in all-inclusive resort vacations and selling travel insurance.

Nearly half of customers who had not used an agent in the last year said they would consider one if they can help save them money.

ASTA released the preliminary findings of the report to mark the National Travel and Tourism Week on May 1-7, which includes Travel Agent Appreciation Day on May 4.

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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.

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