A consolidator in tourism is a company that specializes in buying a large number of airline tickets and hotel rooms at discounted prices and then reselling them to travel agencies or directly to consumers. These companies are also known as wholesalers or aggregators.
What Does a Consolidator Do?
Consolidators purchase airline tickets and hotel rooms in bulk, usually at a discounted price, from airlines and hotels. The discounts are offered because the consolidators buy these products in large quantities, which allows them to negotiate lower prices.
Once the consolidator has purchased these products, they resell them to travel agencies or directly to consumers at a higher price, making a profit on the difference between the discounted price they paid and the price they charge their customers.
Why Use a Consolidator?
One of the main benefits of using a consolidator is cost savings. Consolidators can offer lower prices on airline tickets and hotel rooms because of their ability to purchase these products in bulk at discounted rates. This allows travelers to save money on their travel expenses.
Another benefit of using consolidators is convenience. Consolidators provide an easy way for travel agencies or consumers to book multiple components of their trip, such as flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities all in one place.
How to Find a Consolidator
Consolidators can be found through various channels such as travel agents, online travel agencies (OTAs), or directly through the consolidator’s website.
When looking for a consolidator, it’s essential to do your research and compare prices from different sources. Some consolidators may specialize in specific destinations or types of travel, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs.
Things to Consider
When considering using a consolidator, there are several things you should keep in mind:
Price: Make sure to compare prices from different consolidators to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Reputation: Look for reviews and ratings of the consolidator to ensure they have a good reputation for customer service.
Flexibility: Check if the consolidator offers flexible booking options in case you need to make changes to your travel plans.
Terms and Conditions: Read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of your booking, including cancellation policies, fees, and restrictions.
Conclusion
In summary, a consolidator in tourism is a company that buys airline tickets and hotel rooms in bulk at discounted rates and resells them to travel agencies or consumers at a higher price. Using a consolidator can offer cost savings and convenience when booking travel. However, it’s essential to do your research and consider factors such as price, reputation, flexibility, and terms and conditions before choosing a consolidator.