Why a Travel Planner is a No Brainer

I feel like I always pictured travel planners as something from another time, with mid-century furniture and a poster of PanAm on the wall. Well, travel planners are still around and the advantages to using them have increased since their start thanks to technology. Personally, I used to come from the camp of “I can do it all myself” and “What’s the point” or “There are still travel agents?” But as I have increased my trips around the sun, my life has not gotten quieter. In fact, it has only gotten louder and more chaotic (in the best way possible). 

Going to Disney World was something I had the privilege of getting to do throughout my childhood and adolescence. I have many memories throughout the property at all the parks while traveling with my mom and dad, family and friends. When I was finally ready to bring my own children, I dove in head first, learning all the information and how to try and navigate the Disney World system. I felt like I had an understanding, but still had a lot to learn.

My family and I missed Disney parks so much we scheduled another trip post reopening and used a, drumroll please….travel planner. So much had changed since pre-Covid and it was a lot to take in. It was so convenient to have a person in my corner to ask questions, to make phone calls to Disney, and just take some of the pressure off of me. And I loved it! I loved not having to wake up early and make dining reservations, I loved not having to call Disney when I had to make a special room request or ask them a question or try to spend hours researching something online instead I just reached out to my travel planner! And the best part, their services were free. Since I had booked my trip with this travel planner, they got a commission from Disney and so my services as their client were completely complementary.

After gaining so much knowledge and having the desire to help more people enjoy what Disney has to offer, I took the plunge to become a Disney travel planner myself in 2021! Finally! What a way to share my knowledge, tips, tricks and favorites with others.

 Let’s dig into some common questions that folks have if they’ve never used a travel planner. 

Why are travel planners free? 

In most cases, travel planners are free. Since they receive a commission from the vendor if you, the client, booked through the travel planner then you get this great resource for zero dollars! If you’ve booked your own trip but would still like to have the help of a travel planner, then absolutely connect with a travel planner that you would like to work with and they might provide a travel planning fee. Just reach out to 

What do travel planners do for me? 

Each travel agency and travel planner do things a little differently. I would reach out and ask specific things that you were looking for as a client that would be included and if it is then you’ve probably met the travel planner that you need to work with. Some travel planners do not book dining for their clients, some have boundaries as far as when to receive text messages and others will create daily itineraries. If there is something you are particularly concerned about or don’t want the hassle of dealing with, see if the agent you're potentially working with provides that. Keep in mind if you need to rent a stroller, scooter and arrange airport transfers. Oh and I almost forgot, discounts! In particular when it comes to Disney resort vacations, when Disney drops a promotion and your travel dates apply, we get to work right away to see if we can save you money on your vacation. How great is that?

What destinations can FYWTC help me book and plan? 

We have several great vendors that we’ve enjoyed working with. Including Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Studios, Beaches, Sandals, MSC Cruises, Adventures by Disney, Guided tours domestically and abroad. And we will continue to add more, be sure to join our mailing list for updates.

What other benefits could potential clients gain
by booking through a travel planner? 

The most obvious benefit is you have a new travel guru in your back pocket that can help you for not only Disney destinations, but your quick family getaway to the beach or a two week guided European vacation. You’re also supporting a small business by booking with one of our travel planners. It’s a WIN WIN!

All of us here at FYWTC truly enjoy the marvels of travel and look forward to getting to work finding your Wonderland. Whether it is spending quality time with your whole family, just your spouse or a special once-in-a-lifetime trip!

-Carey Trivisonno

Vice President and Travel Planner
Find Your Wonderland Travel Co