Another factor that must be considered is, of course, the internet. This enables anyone anywhere to search for the best prices on air fares and hotel accommodation. This has forced travel agents to rethink the way they make their money. After all, why would anyone go to a travel agent when they can find and book their holiday using their computer?

Anohter effect of the increased competition in the travel sector is the enormous improvement in the quality of customer service. Travel agents will bend over backwards to fulfill your every desire, just to get your valuable business.

If you are planning a budget vacation and plan to do it all yourself from your computer it’s always a good idea to compare what you find online with what can be provided by your local travel agent. You could be in for a very pleasant surprise.

For example, I recently took a 10 day skiing trip which I initially had researched online. I gathered the prices for my hotel, flights, travel insurance etc. and then I popped into a local travel agents while on my work lunch break.

I provided them with the details from my research and they were able to offer me a package holiday deal that was even cheaper. What’s more, it included specialist ski insurance in the price. Also, since I was planning to do a little mountaineering while on vacation I needed some additional adventure travel insurance that would cover this. They were able to provide an excellent policy at a remarkable prices.

Its worth remembering that cheap travel bargains are not exclusively available online. Your high street travel agency has some exceptional bargains, often with some very appealing fringe benefits, so be certain to check out what’s on offer.