Do Travel Consultants Cost More? The Truth About Working with a Travel Professional

By Linette Almasi, Travel Consultant & Founder of Lux Grand Travel

You can book a flight in three clicks. You can scan hotel reviews in a matter of seconds. And if you're feeling ambitious, you can even build a complex itinerary using dozens of tabs open at once. But ask yourself—is that really how you want to plan your next journey?

In a world of infinite options, having access is no longer the issue. What’s missing is clarity. Curation. Confidence. The assurance that what you’re booking isn’t just available—but right for you.

That’s where travel consultants come in.

Once referred to as travel agents, today’s travel professionals are something entirely different. We are your advocates. Your behind-the-scenes experts. Your personal guide to the world—not just in destination, but in design. And if you’ve ever paused and wondered, “Am I going to pay more for using someone like that?”—the answer may surprise you.

Let’s talk about it.

The “Middleman” Myth

There’s a long-standing misconception that travel consultants simply act as intermediaries, adding unnecessary markups to inflate prices. But the reality couldn’t be further from that image.

Professional travel consultants operate with a deep network of industry relationships—connections built over years, sometimes decades. We’re part of preferred programs with world-class hotel brands, cruise lines, tour operators, and on-the-ground partners that offer our clients exclusive access to benefits they wouldn’t find on their own. These aren’t promotional upgrades or one-time deals—they’re a reflection of trust, earned through experience and service.

We don’t mark things up. Instead, we often unlock value. That might mean a room with a view that isn’t available online, a complimentary breakfast for two, a credit toward spa treatments, or a warm welcome with your name on it at a hotel that already knows you’re coming. It’s not about extravagance—it’s about intention.

Do Travel Consultants Cost More Than Booking Online?

Here’s what most people don’t realize: travel consultants are most often compensated by the suppliers themselves. That means the hotel, cruise line, or tour provider pays us a commission—just like they would pay an online travel site. From your perspective, the cost is generally the same, but the experience is completely different.

Now, there are instances where a consultant will charge a planning or concierge fee. That fee, when it exists, is always discussed upfront—and it reflects the time, expertise, and care that goes into crafting a personalized journey. Think of it the way you would a designer’s fee or a bespoke tailor: not just for the hours worked, but for the eye, the taste, the understanding of fit.

And when you're planning something as meaningful as a honeymoon, a milestone celebration, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, that guidance can be invaluable.

The Planning You Don’t See—But Always Feel

People planning a trip with maps – travel planning concept

Behind every great trip is a hundred small decisions. Which hotel is best for three nights in Lisbon: the heritage property with charm but no elevator, or the new build with rooftop views but a generic feel? What’s the best route to combine Santorini, Crete, and Athens without losing a day in transit? Is that “hidden gem” you saw on TikTok actually worth the detour?

These are the kinds of questions travel consultants live for. It’s not just about knowing the answers—it’s about knowing the right questions to ask you so that every choice reflects your tastes and priorities.

A good consultant doesn’t just send you links. They listen. They probe. They ask whether you prefer a room that faces the sunset or the courtyard. They remember you don’t love high heat or that you once said Paris felt too fast. They curate, edit, finesse. And in doing so, they remove the stress that often turns travel planning into another job.

This level of detail doesn’t show up on your receipt. But it shows up when everything goes right—and you get to focus on enjoying it.

Not Just for the Elite

Another myth worth unpacking is the belief that travel consultants are only for the ultra-wealthy or the retired. In reality, our clients are busy professionals, families with full calendars, solo travelers chasing personal milestones, and couples seeking meaningful escapes.

What they have in common isn’t an unlimited budget—it’s a desire for thoughtful travel. Travel that feels seamless and significant. Travel that respects their time and elevates the experience from the moment they begin planning to the moment they unpack their suitcase.

Luxury, after all, isn’t always about the price tag. Sometimes, it’s defined by the way a trip makes you feel. The joy of not having to stress over logistics. The comfort of knowing you’re in capable hands. The magic of discovering something unexpected and unforgettable—all because someone knew exactly what to look for.

Trust, Not Transactions

One of the most overlooked benefits of working with a travel consultant is the relationship itself.

Unlike an online booking engine, we aren’t focused on transactions. We’re focused on trust. That means we’re just as honest about what’s not worth your time or budget. We’ll tell you when something’s overrated, when a flight layover is too risky, when a hotel is beautiful but too far from the action.

And we’re in this with you. When borders close unexpectedly, when natural disasters shift your plans, when illness throws off a family reunion trip—we’re on your team, recalibrating the plan so you don’t have to.

For many of our clients, the biggest value isn’t the perks or upgrades. It’s the peace of mind in knowing they’re not navigating it alone.

A Better Way to Travel

In the end, working with a travel consultant isn’t about adding a layer of complexity or cost. It’s about simplifying your life while enriching your travel. It’s about knowing that someone is looking out for your best interest, not just clicking through booking systems.

We don’t just send you away—we bring your vision to life. With every recommendation, every detail, and every connection, we aim to create something more than a trip. We create a journey that feels as personal as it does polished.

Because you deserve more than just a vacation. You deserve an experience that fits you—and stays with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do travel consultants always charge a planning fee?Not always. Many are paid by travel suppliers, not by you. When a fee is charged, it’s discussed upfront and reflects time, research, and tailored service.

Can’t I just book everything online?You can—but a consultant brings insight, strategy, and advocacy you won’t get from a search engine. It’s about thoughtful travel, not just availability.

What kinds of trips do consultants plan?From weekend escapes to international adventures, milestone trips to family getaways—any journey worth getting right is one worth planning with care.

Is using a travel consultant only for high-end travelers?Not at all. It’s for travelers who value expertise, personalization, and a smoother, richer experience—regardless of the total spend.

What if something goes wrong during my trip?That’s exactly when your consultant becomes essential. We manage changes, find solutions, and stay available—so you can stay calm and carry on.

Written by Linette Almasi, Founder and Travel Consultant at Lux Grand Travel. I’m passionate about crafting tailored travel experiences that go beyond the booking—bringing you comfort, clarity, and unforgettable moments.

Let’s talk about where you’re going next.