Breakout Session
Industry chatter on a topic that's important to you
In this issue, we asked travel advisors this question: How do you help prepare a less experienced traveler for a trip? Let's take a look at what they had to say.
“It’s important to first and foremost make less experienced travelers feel comfortable by answering all of their questions, communicating your experience and outlining your processes and what to expect. This gives travelers peace of mind in working with you as their travel advisor. Prior to travel, it’s imperative to outline travel tips, during travel emergency contacts and the option to schedule a call to go over trip details. Also, simply tell your clients how excited you are for them! Showing enthusiasm for their trip allows the clients’ nerves to melt away and get excited, too.”
—Jessica Pressler, CEO & founder of Radiance Travel
“My approach to my novice traveler is the same for a seasoned traveler. That approach is to qualify my clients at initial consultation. Once I qualify, I have a better understanding of their needs. I treat every client the same in that I provide critical information at first point of contact (i.e. need for passport, ensuring all names, DOBs are accurate, etc). Once travel details have been confirmed, I begin to provide monthly and sometimes more frequently travel tips and tricks directly related to the destination, cruise travel, packing tips, etc. My clients are never alone. I am committed to providing them with everything needed for their travel experience.”
—Javicia Peterson-Cole MCC, CTA, travel advisor at JCole Vacations L.L.C.
“Travelers that are vacationing internationally for the first time require a little more preparation than more experienced travelers. Our agency has created a series of pre-departure emails for our clients that apply to their specific destinations and/or travel styles: cruises, all-inclusive resorts, guided tours, etc. Each series covers important topics ranging from tipping guidelines, suggested packing lists, important phrases to learn (yes, no, please, thank you, where is…), last-minute travel reminders and more. This frequently spurs travelers to think of related questions before they go. In the end, everyone feels more prepared for their upcoming vacation.”
—Melissa Lisell, vice president at Lisell Travel
“I dig deep into my powers of empathy. Although I've been all over the world, I can still imagine how intimidating the world of travel can be for a new traveler. I walk my clients through what to expect from the time they arrive at the departure airport until the time they arrive home. I try to think of the things that are so automatic to me now — packing my travel documents in my carry-on, getting foreign currency at my home bank, calling the bank to let them know I'll be traveling. To put it simply, I step into their shoes and think ahead.”
—Alison Mason, owner at Brick City Marketing
“The best way to prepare a less experienced traveler for their trip is to set expectations and give them tools right at their fingertips! Sending packing lists, how to contact transfers and what to do if there is a flight delay/cancellation is invaluable. What seems like second nature to some of us, others need reminding. When to go through customs, what is TSA or even choosing seats for your flights are all questions you should prep clients for a smooth trip.”
—Katie Gerling, travel agent at Vic's Vacations
“To prepare a less experienced traveler for a trip, I provide detailed itineraries, packing lists and transportation information. I also provide where to find local customs, currency exchange rates and safety precautions (to empower them to know how to get information for their next destination). Additionally, I highly suggest purchasing travel insurance and keeping important documents handy and pictures of items on the phone. Lastly, I advise them to be flexible and open-minded to embrace unexpected experiences while traveling and let them know I am here for any and all questions.”
—Alexisa Humphrey, owner/travel advisor at Lexy’s Travel Company, LLC
“For less experienced travelers, pre-trip preparation is key. Here at Global Gifts Travel, we recommend starting with thorough research on the destination, including local customs and language basics. Packing should be thoughtful, considering the cultural environment, climate and activities planned. To further assist, we conduct a minimum of two monthly Zoom sessions for our clientele, offering a platform for questions and connections. These meetings provide detailed briefings on everything from documentation requirements to State Department advisories, ensuring travelers are well-prepared and informed for their journey.”
—Sherrie Thomas, owner/luxury travel curator and hosted group specialist at Global Gifts Travel
“JTS Vacations streamlines trip planning for novice travelers by offering personalized itineraries and 24/7 support. Our team guides clients through selecting destinations, customizing their experience and helping them to understand local customs. We provide detailed travel checklists and safety tips, ensuring a smooth experience. Additionally, JTS Vacations offers educational materials on navigating airports and public transportation. Our comprehensive approach demystifies travel complexities, making adventures accessible and enjoyable for all.”
—Shamica Davis, chief experience officer at JTS Vacations
Originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of The Compass magazine
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