6 Top Travel Agencies

What to check before you book with a travel agency

A travel agency puts flights, hotels and transfers together and takes payment for the whole trip. That is convenient, but you depend on the agency when plans change. Spend a few minutes checking it before you pay.

• Package or separate bookings. Ask whether you are buying one package or several separate bookings. In some countries packages carry extra consumer protection, so ask what applies to you.
• Protection schemes. Some agencies belong to schemes that protect customer money if the business fails. If an agency claims membership, check it on the scheme's own website.
• Itemized confirmation. Ask for flight numbers, hotel names and dates in writing, plus supplier booking references.
• Help during the trip. Look for an emergency number that works outside office hours.

Common complaints and how to avoid them

Slow refunds, trips changed after payment and hard-to-reach support appear often in reviews. Pay by card where possible, keep all emails, and confirm hotel and flight bookings directly with the providers a few weeks before departure. On CandorRated, each agency page shows who appears to run the website, how long the domain has been registered, the contact details we found and reviews from other travelers. Filter the list by country or city to find agencies near you.

Frequently asked questions

Is an online agency different from a local one?

Mostly in how you reach them. Check the same things: protection, booking references and support hours.

Can an agency change my trip after I pay?

Terms vary. Read the change clause before booking and ask what refund you get if it does.