Inclusions in headline prices should be attractive for consumers and agents alike, says TTC Tour Brands EMEA managing director Kelly Jackson
As the cost-of-living crisis rumbles on, it is apparent that while UK consumers are still planning to take their much-treasured holiday this year, many are naturally looking at how they can get as much value as possible. The consumer travel press has been full of hacks and tips on holiday budgeting, and our trade partners understandably report that clients are seeking ways to make their money go further.
The good news is that UK holidaymakers are showing their typical resilience and determination for sunshine, a change of scenery and to explore different cultures, activities and cuisines – with bookings for peaks far surpassing recent problematic years. But how can we, as travel agents and operators, meet our clients’ needs to tighten their belts without compromising too much on the experience?
I firmly believe the touring sector has a real opportunity here – and I encourage our travel agent partners to grab it. For a start, clients can benefit from locked-in prices, with most of the on-the-ground costs included upfront, so travellers are less susceptible to additional costs and escalating prices while on holiday.
With the pound almost at parity with the Euro, for example, it makes a real difference to meals out, transport and entrance attractions, expenses which are predominantly wrapped up in the cost of the tour. Just as all-inclusive resorts are having a bit of a moment, tours can offer travellers a similar level of reassurance and it’s a win-win for our travel agent partners too because there’s obviously commission to be made across more elements of the holiday.
And of course, operators of our scale benefit from volume discounts on accommodation, attraction entrances and meals so we’re able to secure much better rates for our guests than if there were travelling independently. Economies of scale have a real part to play here.
Alternatively, other touring models can help travellers budget along the way. For example, the concept of our Costsaver brand – Essentials by Us, Tailored by You – means that clients can build their own experience along the way. It’s the ultimate unpackaged tour, and travellers can make it their own, allowing them to pay and budget as they go.
For those that want to keep an eye on their spending on the road, it means they can select the experiences that really resonate with them, and focus on soaking up the destination at leisure the rest of the time. The point is that a touring holiday takes lots of the unexpected costs out of the equation, making it a more reassuring choice now.
And all this with the guidance of an expert Travel Director whose impeccable local knowledge can point guests to the best restaurants or shops in which to grab a bargain without compromising on quality. At TTC Tour Brands, we are fortunate enough to have a touring holiday for all budgets in pretty much every continent and are delighted that savvy agents are coming to us and our fellow members of the Association of Touring & Adventure Suppliers to help their customers find the perfect holiday to meet their needs.
TTC Tour Brands includes operators Trafalgar, Costsaver Tours, Insight Vacations, Luxury Gold and Contiki