Back in 2004 I rented a van for Brisbane from Sydney through an agency which I won't name. The vehicle I recieved stunned me: the lid of the stove fell off every time we hit a bump, the gas tank had a leak, the roof dripped, mosquitoes found their way in THROUGH the fly screens and at one stage the fridge buzzed loudly for hours and was in a putrid state when I recieved it.
At first I took this for a summery of all hire companies, but other people have told me about their trips which actually turned out to be far more pleasant.
Upon mentioning this to a friend who's worked in the industry, I found out WHY I GOT SUCH A POOR VAN - When one makes a booking with an agent, they'll quote you the highest price they can before shopping around a bunch of rental companies (up to ten, I'm told). They'll find the cheapest possible rental from whichever company offers it. On top of this, they charge a commission. This means you're paying up to double what the booking is really worth!
In my case, the cheapest booking was probably a 'relocation deal', where they just needed the van moved from one city to another. This would explain why the vehicle was in such poor condition when I payed $140/day for it. It was unwashed and unchecked!
My word about travel agents: AVOID if possible. Looking anywhere on the internet can take you directly to dealerships. I did my homework and found that I was right on the money - the companies that deal with their own vehicles save you a surprising amount by comparison to travel agents.
Are we really so lazy that we need pay double for someone to plan our holiday for us?

"Are we really so lazy that we need pay double for someone to plan our holiday for us?"

Well, you've answered your own question, haven't you? skipkeen, I admire you. Not everyone would have the courage to admit to being such a drongo.

In many other other situations, though, travel agents can be very helpful.

The Internet has revolutionised travel and with forums like Fodors and Trip Advisor you can really fine tune your holiday and get the most for your dollar. Also the accomodation options are now limitless with so many wonderful places listed on the Internet that are not in those boring brochures. Nevertheless the human aspect a travel agent can offer can sometimes be a comforting factor for those who don't want to do everything by email as you can also make some big mistakes via the Internet. The answer is to know what you want and use the travel agent for some things and the Internet for others.

skipkeen. I wonder if it was the same off airport company I used in Brisbane some years ago. The car was fairly old and SMELT. Fortunately I didn't use it that much as I drove down to Surfer's Paradise and stayed there.

Dear skipkeen and others,
I have had dealings with an agent in the US who specialises in organising Australian holidays for the independent traveller with an interest in natural history. I know of him because of rave reports from his customers who come to Yungaburra. Andrew Haffenden is his name and his details are Australian Natural Adventures
Nature Travel Specialists LLC
Suite 1, 245 Ridgemont Dr, Helena AL 35080
phone tollfree 1 877 285 1170
local 1 205 428 3687
www.naturetravelspecialists.com

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