What Does a Travel Advisor Actually Do? (And What It Costs You)
It's 11 p.m. You have 14 browser tabs open, three cruise lines that all look the same, and a spreadsheet that's starting to look like a tax return. Somewhere around tab nine, you start wondering if there's a better way. There is, and it probably costs less than you think.
Quick answer: A travel advisor researches, compares, books and manages your trip, then advocates for you if something goes wrong. Most advisors are paid by cruise lines, resorts and tour companies, so for many trips their help costs you nothing extra.
Before you book
Listens first: your travel style, budget, who's coming and what a great trip looks like to you.
Does the research: compares ships, resorts, rooms and dates, and shows you the real, all-in price.
Finds the extras: onboard credit, upgrades or resort perks you won't see on public booking sites.
After you book
Watches the price: requests adjustments if a better promotion comes out before final payment.
Handles the details: dining reservations, excursions, transfers, travel insurance and document checklists.
Keeps you on track: payment reminders and a clear plan before you leave.
During your trip
This is where an advisor really earns their keep. A canceled flight, a hurricane reroute, a room that isn't what you booked: instead of waiting on hold with a 1-800 number, you call or text one person who already knows your trip and works to fix it.
Does a travel advisor cost more?
For most cruises, all-inclusive resorts and Disney vacations, no. Suppliers pay advisors a commission that's already built into the price you'd pay anyway. Some advisors charge planning fees for complex custom trips. At SIX18 Travel, there's no added cost for the trips I specialize in.
How I plan your trip at SIX18 Travel
Tell me about your trip. A quick form or call covers who's going, your style and where you're dreaming of.
Get your personalized plan. I compare options and pricing, and you review, tweak and approve.
Travel with confidence. I'm your advocate before and during your trip.
As a military veteran, I bring the same preparation and attention to detail to your vacation that I learned in uniform. Nothing gets left to chance.
When you might not need an advisor
Honestly? A quick weekend trip with a flight and a hotel you already know is easy to book yourself. Advisors add the most value on cruises, all-inclusives, Disney, destination weddings, group trips and international travel, where there are more moving parts and more ways to save.
Frequently asked questions
Is a travel advisor the same as a travel agent? Yes. "Advisor" reflects the planning and advice that's now a bigger part of the job.
Will I pay more than booking online? Usually not. Advisors generally get the same or better rates, plus perks and support.
Can you help if I live outside Illinois? Absolutely. SIX18 Travel serves travelers nationwide by phone, text and email.
Close those 14 tabs. Tell me where you want to go, and I'll do the rest, at no extra cost. Get your free quote or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
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