Benefits of a travel agent?

[DisneyDreamer0610]

Planning a trip to Disney....I am getting the same Prices and deals as a travel agent...I booked
Already w Disney but was thinking about using a travel agent if there was an added benefit...any insight here? TIA!

 

[jmartinez1895]

Some people either do not have the time or the desire to do all the planning so an agent helps with that.
We booked with AAA so that we could get the perks that only come with that package. Some of the perks where special fireworks viewing area in MK, diamond parking pass, and a discount card that was good at may places. I personally am a control freak and not have total power of my trip was a little frustrating. I seemed to know more than the agent and would have to call her, then she would call Disney then call me back.
If you have found an agent that can offer special perks then it might be worth it, but if they are not going to offer you any incentives for booking with them and you have the time, knowledge and desire to plan you trip yourself ( your a Diser so I assume you do) then I would just do it myself.

 

[Shmily1]

It depends on what you are looking for. Agents can get you the same or better prices than you could get booking for yourself, but it is the perks that are usually the most beneficial. Some provide small gifts for the family, room items, or gift cards, itineraries, book dining, apply discounts so you don't have to watch for them, book extras like BBB or PL, and give helpful tips on what is going on while you are there. They can do as much or as little as you want, depending on your desire to plan the trip yourself. It's all about what you are happy with.

 

[PrincessWhite]

Hi just saw your post! As a TA myself here are some of the differences that are offered that Disney doesn't give clients.
-Personalized itineraries
-Discount Monitoring
-Booking ADR's
-Personalized things mailed up until your trip

And of course these things will differ from agent to agent and the agency. Hope this gives you a better idea if you haven't made your decision yet!

 

[mommy2twingles]

Another TA here to echo PrincessWhite.. . many agencies offer discount monitoring, ADR bookings, fastpass bookings, coordination of fllights/rental cars, room gifts/gift cards may be offered by the individual agency.

 

[SandyinMonterey]

I don't think it's anything you can't do on your own. It actually can be fun. With the magic bands and my Disney experience, it couldn't be easier. Plus you always have this form to help you out.

 

[ruadisneyfan2]

I enjoy planning our trips to WDW. I only use a TA for cruising because she gives us onboard credits as a thank you for booking with her.
$200 per cabin for 7+ night cruises
$100 per cabin for < 7 nts.

When combined with the OBCs from Disney for rebooking onboard, it really adds up. Also since our kids are teens and not so little, we get 2 cabins.
It covers gratuities and a big excursion.

Otherwise, planning WDW is easy and fun. YMMV.