Booking-dot-what? Online traveling booking is hot right now, thanks to many discount travel apps and websites. According to a recent survey, nearly 180 million people visited travel websites in June 2015. This number is huge, and it is expected to rise in the coming months. The prices are great, and the service is quick, but are these websites really worth it?
Well, yes and no. If someone is wanting to operate an online travel agency or discount site, they need to know that there are challenges. Usually the biggest challenge for a business is finding a customer base and a merchant account. However, with these sites the customer based comes easily, and you can find a good travel merchant account with a little research. While these are two are of concern, you need to make sure that you know the ins and outs of this business. For instance, while booking an all-inclusive plane, hotel, rental car package is convenient, it often leaves issues if the flight needs to be rebooked. For consumers, it is quicker to rebook a flight if the original flight from booked directly from the airline.
You also need to make sure that if you have a cancellation plan, that it is clearly stated. Chargebacks can cost you dearly, and they can complicate your relationship with your travel merchant account provider. While most know that these charges are simply part of the industry, other processors will hike up processing rates, which could make you raise your prices. Another tip is to keep tabs on the “hot” travel areas for the seasons. The popular time often mean higher prices, and you could steer your customers to “like” areas with a lower fee. Of course, if someone really wants to go to Cabo, they will pay more, but the suggestion show that your company is not all about money.
You need to make sure all of your bases are covered. From a merchant account, to a cancellation policy, and everything in between, you need your business to operate smoothly for you and your customers benefit.