Travel agents say the ongoing war with Iran - even with a two-week ceasefire in place - continues to disrupt routes and drive up fuel costs for both drivers and airlines. Those factors, they say, are creating a volatile environment for anyone planning a major trip.
Agents can help travelers manage shifting airline policies, sudden cancellations, and other complications that can arise with little warning.
Jessica Parker, founder of the Travel Whisperer, said agents often work behind the scenes to keep itineraries on track.
"So, while they're on the flight, I'm rebooking them on a better option. By the time they land in their connection at Frankfurt, for example, they've already been rebooked, and they're gonna make their river cruise, or they're gonna make the start of their itinerary and not miss out," Parker said. "So, there's a lot of those things that are happening behind the scenes that, you know, a third-party site is not gonna do."
Parker said the uncertainty abroad has many travelers seeking reassurance before spending thousands of dollars on a long-planned vacation.
As summer approaches, travel experts say professional guidance may be the key to avoiding costly disruptions.