6 risks when booking your flight through a travel agency

Planning a trip can bring a lot of joy, especially when you’re dreaming of a new destination. Many people choose to book airline tickets through a travel agency to save time and receive additional support. However, this option can also come with potential pitfalls. Before paying for your reservation, here are the six most important risks you may encounter and how to prepare for a worry-free experience.

1. Working with an unlicensed agency or one with negative reviews

Choosing a verified agency helps you prevent major problems. A licensed travel agency provides a minimum level of security. For example, if someone paid a deposit for a city break and never received the ticket, they most likely worked with an unreliable company. You can quickly check the agency in the Tourism Registry or read reviews on Google and specialized platforms.

If you notice that the agency has no online presence or very few genuine reviews, it’s better to look for other options.

2. Hidden fees, cancellations, and lack of transparency in the offer

Some agencies add extra costs or fail to clarify what happens if you want to change or cancel your ticket. For example, changing a flight date can end up costing almost as much as a new ticket. A clear contract and a detailed offer should explain all these aspects. Ask from the start about additional fees or change conditions before making the payment.

Act practically:

• Carefully read all terms and conditions.

• Request the exact list of costs.

3. Logistical issues: overbooking, schedule changes, and limited support

In aviation, more tickets are sometimes sold than available seats. If you are flying with a layover and the flight schedule changes suddenly, you may easily miss your connection. Agency support varies, especially during peak season or when unexpected strikes occur.

In such situations, keep all documents and contact specialized companies such as AirClaim. They help passengers obtain compensation for delays, cancellations, or missed connections. You may receive up to EUR 600, according to European regulations.

4. Financial losses and legal complications

The agency is required to have insolvency insurance. Without this insurance, if the company ceases operations, you risk losing your money. Additionally, some companies ignore European regulations regarding passenger rights and do not provide easy access to compensation or refunds.

To avoid such situations:

• Request proof of insolvency insurance.

• Pay only using secure methods (card or transfers to verified companies).

• Explicitly ask how refunds are handled if a legal issue arises.

5. Personal data vulnerability and online fraud attempts

Flight bookings are usually made online, and data security deserves special attention. Make sure the website you use for payment is encrypted (https:// in the address bar) and contains updated contact information. Avoid clicking links from suspicious emails. Never share PINs or passwords with the agency via messages. Phishing is widespread—attackers often impersonate travel agencies and request confidential details.

A few simple solutions:

• Enable two-factor authentication for card payments.

• Use only well-known platforms for online payments.

6. Practical steps to avoid risks

Keep the following recommendations in mind before booking:

• Verify the agency’s authorization and reviews.

• Carefully read the cancellation, change, and baggage terms (hand luggage is usually the only item included with low-cost tickets).

• Ask what options you have for online check-in and what documents you will receive after booking.

• Contact the agency whenever you have questions about the itinerary, fares, or additional services.

• Save all emails and documents related to the purchase.

A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide extra support in unforeseen situations. This way, you can easily manage any challenge and enjoy every stage of your journey.