Summer vacation is over, the kids are back in school and soon fall will be on its way … that means that busy season is just around the corner, and now is the best time for agents to prepare.
A travel agent’s busy season is the time of year when people are looking to book spring break trips, plan their summer vacations and look ahead to big trips in the coming year like a river cruise or European vacation. It’s a busy time of year for inquiries coming in and making bookings, as well as a busy time for clients traveling to warm locations.
There are a few ways that you can prepare to save time and energy.
Understanding Flight Schedules
Think about which airport your clients fly from. It’s important to know the days and times of popular flights out of these airports. Are these flights scheduled air or chartered air? Who has the best flights among your travel suppliers?
Learn About the Newest Resorts
There are new resorts opening in Mexico and the Caribbean every year, and it’s important for travel agents to know about them. Read reviews, ask agents that have been and talk to your suppliers about these resorts. Will they be popular with your clients? Encourage them to book early to ensure they have the room category and dates they want.
Explore What’s New In Cruising
The cruise industry is dynamic, which is why it’s essential to make sure you are up to date on the newest cruise news before the busy season hits. Ship inspections and seminars at sea are some of the best ways to learn about new ships. Webinars by cruise suppliers are another easy way to learn about new ships, itineraries and home ports for some of the most popular ships. Also, pay attention to ships that have been refurbished in the past year and what new experiences they have onboard.
Start Marketing Now
You can get started by laying the foundation of your marketing plans. Share photos, information and videos on your social media to inspire your clients to start thinking about their 2027 vacation now. You may even find that some clients are ready to book now, meaning that you can space out some of your work.
Manage Your Time
Time management can be difficult to master, especially when you are juggling multiple itinerary requests, making bookings and trying to follow up with clients. Do your research on popular destinations, resorts and cruises now. Know which suppliers are your go-tos and review their booking engines. Promote your business hours everywhere so that clients know when you’ll be available.
Being busy booking travel is exciting. With some planning in advance, you can focus on the fun of your travel business!
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