The Benefits of Selling Air and Hotel Together

If you’re new to the travel industry, booking airfare might feel intimidating. It’s a no-brainer that travel advisors book hotels, as this is where the bulk of the commission usually comes from, but booking airfare and hotels together comes with a slew of benefits and might be something you’ll want to start doing.

“When advisors bundle air and hotel, they’re not just booking a trip — they’re creating a complete travel experience,” said Jim Tedesco, vice president, sales at ALG Vacations. “It delivers more convenience for the client and stronger returns for the advisor. Everyone benefits when the package tells a full story.”

Higher Commissions

Gone are the days when airlines paid high commissions to travel advisors, but when bundled together with a hotel, advisors can earn commission on flights booked in VAX VacationAccess.

ALG Vacations also offers Exclusive Nonstop Vacation Flights, which have a ton of value to both travel advisors and their clients. In addition to being nonstop and having convenient flight times, you can earn up to 15% commission when they book these. Plus, you can book Preferred Perks Plus for your clients to get them VIP treatment such as preferred seating, a free checked bag, snacks and beverages during the flight and more.

Client Loyalty

In addition to earning more commission, travel advisors can help protect a client’s entire trip when bundling air and hotel by adding on a travel insurance package. If a client books their airfare separately, and they need to cancel the hotel booked and insured by you, the flight might not be protected. Since you’ll most likely end up helping them navigate the canceled flight anyway, you might as well book it from the start.

Handling all aspects of your clients’ vacations helps them to fully relax. When you’re the point person for flight changes, rescheduled transfers and any other disruptions, all your client has to do is look forward to their trip. With such a seamless experience, they’re not only going to book with you again but also send you referrals.

“Travelers remember the advisors who make everything effortless, from the flight schedule to the final transfer. When you handle it all, you earn more than a commission; you earn trust that keeps clients coming back and inspires them to refer their friends,” Tedesco said.

Resources To Help Travel Advisors Learn More About ALG Vacations

While booking flights might seem intimidating, VAX helps to make the process as easy as possible. Advisors can build itineraries that include flights, hotels, transfers, excursions, upgrades and more, all in one place.

“As we head into the end of the year, advisors looking to hit revenue goals should be leaning into packages,” said Tedesco. “It’s one of the fastest, simplest ways to boost earnings and create value clients recognize.”

If you’re interested in learning more about booking packages on VAX, visit the VAX Training & Education page or reach out to your local BDM.