Airfare nostalgia: the tic-inducing travel trend that will only rise in 2024. “But the last time I went to [insert destination], I only paid $[insert ridiculously low price] for my ticket!” Rather than tightly smiling through the interaction, take a sip from your $6 coffee and read the below.
There’s a Filipino New Year tradition of tossing coins for prosperity. The kids race around collecting them…for profit. This year, the kids complained that they would have to pool their winnings if they wanted to buy anything. As 10-year-old Ethan put it, “Maccas soft serves aren’t 80c anymore!” I honestly thought they were 30c. But, hey, I’m old.
The cost of living is soaring and so too is the cost of travelling. So how do you keep your clients from reeling at the cost of their dream getaway (and blaming you)?
Tell them why
Break down the reasons why travel costs have risen. Dissect the components that have contributed to the airfare hikes. Your clients can see how much it costs to fill up their cars, they can make the leap to airlines facing similar challenges. Same with staffing issues. It’s just a couple of sentences, but an open conversation about costs can help your client see that it’s not you trying to prise open their wallets.
Normalise it
It’s unlikely prices are going down anytime soon. Educate your clients that this is the new normal. Encourage clients to adapt their expectations and adopt smart strategies to navigate this changed travel landscape. By accepting that costs are likely to remain high, agents empower clients to make informed choices and plan their trips within the bounds of this new economic reality.
Make it worth it
Airfares are going to be in the same ballpark if people stay for one week or three. Talk to your clients about extending their stay or adding multiple destinations into one trip. This can make those costs seem more palatable and value for money.
Check your suppliers
Are your suppliers promoting air promotions and other inclusions as part of a package? Encourage your clients to explore the perks of all-inclusive packages that bundle flights, accommodation, and activities. Often, these comprehensive options provide a cost-effective solution for budget-conscious travellers. Plus, going down this path can also protect your commission by keeping the base price the same — the discount to the client comes in the way of the flight credit or flat-rate fare.
Explore payment options
We live in the age of AfterPay. Highlight partnerships with providers offering payment flexibility, ensuring your clients have the freedom to enjoy their journeys without immediate financial stress. By incorporating adaptable payment solutions, travel agents not only enhance the accessibility of travel but also reinforce a commitment to client-centric service in an era of economic uncertainty.
Discover destination dexterity
Uncover alternative destinations that offer a comparable experience without the premium price tag. Travellers love having discovered the new ‘it’ destination and you come out as some all-seeing sage.
Be a financial advisor
Travel agents are used to wearing a lot of hats. Just don your financial advisor one (I’m picturing one of those green visors they use in poker) and help clients on things like the nuances of currency exchange rates. Suggest tactics like preloading currency cards or leveraging favourable rates to ensure their travel funds stretch further. You can also shift the narrative from immediate costs to long-term financial planning. Help clients establish travel savings plans that ease the burden of upfront expenses and make their dream journeys more achievable.
Care
We know you do. But times are tough for many and this is their chance to get away from it so be empathetic. Acknowledge the financial strain, provide solutions, and assure clients that, despite the challenges, their travel dreams remain within reach.
