A travel agency is a company that sells or arranges the booking of travel-related products and services such as airline tickets, hotel rooms, cruises, car rentals, sightseeing tours, package holidays, and other vacation items. They also provide travel insurance and assist travelers with their plans and reservations.

A good travel agency is a resource for consumers looking to plan a trip, advising them of the most suitable destinations and assisting them with their bookings. Its knowledge is invaluable, with the ability to provide advice on schedules, lodging, travel regulations, currency exchange, and other information that may be hard for a consumer to find elsewhere.

Typically, the travel agent is paid a commission from the price of the ticket sold to the customer, which can be up to 10% of the total cost. This is called a mark-up price and is usually higher than the original advertised cost.

The travel agency gets its income from a variety of sources, such as commissions, sales, and fees from service providers. Its profit is determined by the percentage of commission it receives from a ticket, the number of trips booked, and other factors.

In the United States, there are five major types of agencies: independent, host, franchise, consortium, and mega agencies. The five types are classified according to the size of the agency and the type of business it conducts.

Some large agencies are established by corporations that own or control multiple other types of businesses, such as an automobile dealership or a hotel chain. They employ a number of agents and may have their own branches in several countries.

There are also specialized agencies that focus on certain niches, such as travel for students or families with children. These agencies often promote pre-planned trips, but some can also arrange a vacation from scratch.

Depending on the location of the agency, they may offer both online and traditional in-store services. The best way to find a travel agency that suits your needs is to ask friends and family, or do some research on the Internet.

The best travel agencies will have a professional, well-informed staff and will have a comprehensive database of available information about the destinations they represent. This will include the latest travel news, weather and safety updates, visa requirements, vaccinations, etiquette in different countries, and other helpful information.

Many agencies have a dedicated customer service staff, which is the most important aspect of an agency. This helps them make sure their customers are satisfied with the travel experience they have had.

Another significant advantage of using a travel agent is that they are able to provide a more personalized service. This can save their customers time and money, while helping them find the best possible vacation for their budget.

Some travel agents work on a standard 40-hour week, though independent contractors may work extra hours during peak travel seasons. Those with smaller agencies may work more on weekends and over the summer to accommodate their customers’ vacation schedules.