While some people enjoy scouring airline apps and Airbnb for great deals, the threat of weather events and strikes are making some travellers wary, leaving many to return to to using bonded travel agents who offer more security around the booking. According to a report by IBS Software, even digital natives are feeling the same way, with 38 per cent of Gen Z and millennials preferring to use travel agents.
Then there’s the time-poor travellers who just want a relaxing holiday served up to them with no hassle, making all-inclusive trips a popular choice for families. For these reasons and more, consumers are back booking holidays in the more traditional ways.
Lynsey Mackay, country manager, Andorra, has seen first-hand how consumer behaviour has changed since Covid, how people are planning and booking travel now, and how travel experts can mitigate and support if the unexpected happens.
“Customers now better understand the importance of booking holidays that are bonded and protected. They also appreciate the reassurance of reliable support provided by tour operators and travel agents in case any issues occur.”
‘A gas emergency would quickly turn into an electricity emergency. It is low-risk, but high-consequence’
How LEO Digital for Business is helping to boost small business competitiveness
‘I have to believe that this situation is not forever’: stress mounts in homeless parents and children living in claustrophobic one-room accommodation
Unlocking the potential of your small business
While a DIY holiday may sometimes appear cheaper at first glance, that’s not always the case, Mackay says. “Piecing together different elements – flights, accommodation, transfers – from various providers can actually be more expensive and time-consuming. Plus, if something goes wrong with one part of the booking, it can quickly spiral into a complicated, stressful, and often costly situation to fix.”
Protecting your assets
When booking a holiday, it’s crucial to consider the importance of protection, especially given the challenges travellers have faced during the Covid pandemic, says Mackay. “With a tour operator like Topflight, you’re financially protected across all elements of your holiday – flights, accommodation, transfers, and any other additions. If something goes wrong, the tour operator takes full responsibility for resolving the issue, whether that means rebooking, rescheduling or finding the best alternative, all at no additional cost to you.
“All Topflight holidays are bonded and fully protected, meaning your holiday is secure. And should an issue arise, you’ll have direct access to someone who can help. Whether it’s a call to our team in Dublin or assistance from one of Topflight’s in-resort managers if the issue occurs while you are on holiday, we’re there to provide updates, solutions and peace of mind. This straightforward line of communication ensures a smoother experience for everyone, unlike a DIY booking where you’re left to juggle multiple providers on your own.”
During the pandemic years, as travel restrictions and disruptions became the norm, tour operators proved their value by keeping customers informed, managing rapidly changing situations including entry requirements for individual countries, and prioritising their clients’ needs.
This level of care and security is something customers truly value, and it’s reflected in the loyalty of repeat clients. “Booking with a trusted tour operator isn’t just about convenience; it’s about confidence and peace of mind,” says Mackay.
Acts of God
Acts of God or force majeure are events that are beyond the control of the traveller, travel agencies or airlines. Recent events include Storm Darragh, ash clouds in Iceland, and tsunamis in Indonesia. Other force majeure events include civil unrest, acts of terrorism, industrial disputes, epidemics and fires. When events like these occur, travel is disrupted whether on a national or international scale, depending on the severity. It can be extremely helpful to have the support of a travel agent, who can provide information, updates and assist with rebooking.
When travel-related disruptions make news headlines, it naturally prompts people to think more carefully about who they trust with their holiday plans, says Mackay. “Travellers today are looking for a hassle-free experience and, most importantly, they want the reassurance of having someone to turn to if something goes wrong.
“With a package holiday booked through a bonded and licensed tour operator, customers can enjoy that peace of mind. If an unexpected issue arises, whether it’s a cancelled flight, bad weather or a strike, we take responsibility for resolving it.”
This might involve rebooking flights, arranging alternative transportation or reorganising parts of the itinerary, says Mackay. “What’s key is that any replanning or additional costs fall on us, not the customer. It’s that level of support and accountability that makes booking through a travel agent or tour operator increasingly appealing in uncertain times. Travellers know they’re not on their own – they have a trusted team to ensure their holiday goes as smoothly as possible.”
Benefits of booking with an expert
From the moment you start planning your trip, through to your airport experience, and right throughout your holiday, tour operators and travel agents are there to support, guide and ensure everything goes smoothly, says Mackay. “It’s about offering a level of care and reassurance that transforms a holiday into a truly seamless and memorable experience.”
Travel consultants are the heart of the booking process, says Mackay. “With decades of experience, they offer expert first-hand advice tailored to each client’s needs. Their in-depth knowledge of our resorts and accommodations ensures every recommendation is based on the customers’ requirements.”