09/13/2018
So many have questions on what Travel Agents (TA) actually do or offer and sometimes it's good to have a brief summary. This way, if someone does choose to work with a TA, they will be more informed on what things they can expect.
Most TAs that are with an agency that is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner (Earmarked) WILL NOT charge fees. When travel agents say that services are complimentary...they really are. Disney builds in a % to their vacation that covers the commission for a TA (whether or not you use one), so we are paid through them. We also watch for future promotions on your vacation to make sure you are going on vacation for the best price possible.
A TA that specializes in Disney goes through training through Disney and often with their own agency. Many, although not all, are lovers of all things Disney and have a lot of first hand knowledge of Disney brands (WDW, Disneyland, DCL, etc). I personally have also worked at Walt Disney World.
Not all TAs will give you the same level of service, so it is best to talk with a TA first and see if they offer the services you are looking for (help with FastPasses, Dining Reservations, personalized park itineraries or onboard excursions for cruises).
Many TAs treat planning a vacation for someone, like they are planning for their own family. And that is why it is SO important to interact first with a TA...because that level of commitment will definitely come across with most. It is nice to have one person to work with on your trip that gets to know the needs of you and your family. A TA can be very knowledgeable and helpful...you can have the best of both worlds. You also have 1 go to person should you have any issues during planning or on your vacation.
Using a TA is not for everyone...some like to do all the planning themselves and that is OK. It is important to note, that when using a TA, you must go through them for changes to and payments on your reservation. However, you can still do your own FastPass planning and Advanced Dining Reservations as well as Online Checkin and Excursion/Spa/Adult Dining reservations (for cruises) if you'd like.
Many TAs will do as little or as much of the planning as you would like...so if you're a planner, it still can be beneficial to use a TA. And if for nothing else, they are a great resource to ask questions to.
