Is it less expensive to purchase a ticket from a travel agency or directly from the airport?

Question

Is it less expensive to purchase a ticket from a travel agency or directly from the airport?

Answer 1

It costs a little more to get it through a travel agency as they get a small commission.  I buy my tickets through a travel agency if I'm going a susbstantial distance and esp. out of the country.  It just gives me a peace of mind, because I feel I have someone to call if a problem arises.

Answer 2

The prices are the same.  you should always book directly with the airline in case of cancellations and standby situations, you will get preferred treatment over other customers.

Answer 3

A travel agency will add an additional service fee.

Answer 4

Airlines pay the travel agent's commission, not you.

Travel agencies may have more fare options and may also try to add extras like insurance, or sell a package for which they earn more commission, but they have to quote the prices they are given by airlines and travel brokers.

Answer 5

It'll probably be cheaper to buy it online.. like expedia.com or cheaptickets.com.. maybe priceline.com

Answer 6

It never hurts to compare, sometimes travel agents will have access to consolidated fares which are not available on most airline websites. Buying at the airport is usually more expensive, especially last minute on a almost sold-out flight. Online is a good way to check fares and often can provide the best price. Shop around and compare prices.

Answer 7

Don't use any third party booking agencies.  It is a lot cheaper if you call the airlines and get a quote from them.  There are also ways to "sweet talk" yourself into a cheaper rate.