What Are the Benefits of a Trip Agreement?
Whether it's the vacation of a lifetime or an annual stay at a favorite resort, we all want our trips to be enjoyable and trouble-free. A trip agreement can minimize risks and set expectations.
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Definition
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A trip agreement is a document that outlines responsibilities of both the supplier (e.g., a travel agency) and the buyer. These can include the trip cost, guarantees and exclusions.
Function
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The primary function of the agreement is to set specific expectations, such as accommodation type, meal inclusions, transportation, cancellation policies, payment deadlines, mandatory tipping policies and tour guide availability.
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Pre-Trip Benefits
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Trip agreements usually guarantee the trip at a certain price, so increases in a hotel rate or changes in currency exchange rates will not later increase the trip price. Another benefit is availability: The agreement will guarantee that you have confirmed space on the trip.
Trip Benefits
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Travel agencies offering agreements can provide highly competitive prices because they contract with suppliers for transportation, hotels, and tour guides and can obtain volume discounts. In addition they can often obtain additional perks such as welcome receptions and extra meals.
Considerations
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Trip agreements also include obligations from the customer, such as deposits, cancellation fees, and trip interruption penalties.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of David Blaikie