# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Travel Guides

How to Find a Great Travel Agent: 12-Step Vetting Guide

A skilled travel agent saves money, time, and stress—especially for complex trips. Here's how to find one you can trust.

Personal Referrals. Ask friends/family who traveled similarly recently. "Who did you use? Would you again?"
Online Search & Reviews. Google "travel agent + [your city] + [specialty: Africa, Disney, cruise, adventure]." Check Google Reviews, Yelp, TripAdvisor, Travel + Leisure A-List.
Verify Credentials. Look for ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) membership, IATA/IATAN number, CLIA (cruise), CTC/CTIE (certified). Logos on website = good sign.
Match Specialization. Don't use a Disney specialist for a Patagonia trek. Ask: "What % of your bookings are [my trip type]?"
Read Reviews Deeply. Look for: problem resolution stories, communication speed, detail orientation. Ignore generic 5-stars.
Experience Matters. 10+ years = seen crises (volcanoes, pandemics, bankruptcies). Ask: "Worst trip you fixed?"
Test Transparency. Email/call with a question. Do they answer clearly, disclose fees, admit unknowns? Or deflect?
Understand Fees. Fee-only (planning fee $100–$500, no commission) vs. Commission-based (paid by suppliers, "free" to you). Hybrid exists. Both can be ethical. Clarify upfront.
Assess Professionalism. Contract? Errors & Omissions insurance? Secure payment? Data privacy?
Schedule a Consultation (Free). 15–30 min. Discuss: communication style, emergency protocol (24/7?), itinerary customization, supplier relationships.
Trust Your Gut. Do they listen? Ask about you? Feel like a partner, not a salesperson?
Confirm Emergency Support. "If my flight cancels at 2 AM Sunday, who do I call? You? A hotline? How fast?" Get it in writing.