Have you thought about some professional assistance planning your next vacation? You’re not alone.

Three-quarters of Americans would consider working with a travel agent to plan their vacations, new research from AAA Travel shows. Some 27 million travelers plan to do so within the next year. 

Despite the ability to book their own vacations online, nearly half of Americans (46 percent) feel that working with a travel agent adds value to their trip. Plenty of tech-savvy millennials are part of the trend as well: They are just as likely as baby boomers to report planning to use a travel agent for a trip in the next year. 

“Although travelers today have myriad ways in which to book their vacations, they recognize the value of working with a professional, experienced travel agent to make sure there is a return on their travel investment and a lifetime of memories to be made,” said Carol DiOrio, vice president of travel at AAA Western and Central New York.

Top reasons for considering a travel agent are to ensure a smooth experience on complicated and expensive trips, and for help arranging special activities and experiences. But there are other benefits too: 

• Saving time. Travel agents can take the guesswork out of researching and evaluating the many options available, saving time and avoiding hassles.
• Expert recommendations. A knowledgeable travel agent will make personalized recommendations and offer tips on destinations, what to see and do while on vacation, the best and worst times to travel, and much more.
• They’ve been there and done that. Travel agents have often visited the destinations they recommend.
• Reducing stress. Travel agents can make things easier by helping with everything from passport renewal requirements to recommendations for obtaining an International Driving Permit for overseas vacations.
• Help with the unexpected. Between weather delays, natural disasters, flight cancellations, lost luggage and much more, a lot can happen on vacation. Travel agents act as an advocate if something goes wrong, helping navigate any necessary itinerary changes.

While more people are interested in outside help for international destinations than domestic ones, “even when staying stateside, travelers can benefit significantly from working with a travel agent,” DiOrio said. “AAA recommends consulting a knowledgeable travel agent before starting to plan your next vacation.”

For more details on the variety of travel services offered by AAA, visit aaa.com/travel.