Travel agents can save you money sometimes, but it comes at a cost that might not fit into your budget. Some agents charge high fees or percentages of the total vacation cost. Finding the right agent. It can take time to find the right travel agent, advisor or expert.

How much does a travel agent cost? Travel agents may charge service fees, flat-rate trip fees or consultation fees. For example, you might pay a flat rate of between $100 and $500 for a travel agent.

Generally not, and especially not for short distances. For the most part, any discount you'd get from using a travel agent would be for a combined package.

Not necessarily. Travel companies may treat you better when you book directly — of course they will if they're saving a 40 percent commission — but there's also a bigger picture. Online agencies are an essential part of the travel ecosystem, because they allow easy price comparisons across a range of businesses.