4. When it comes to ferreting out bargains for your next cruise, whether to the Caribbean or Europe, or wherever, only your travel agent has the capability to do side-by-side cost and accommodations comparisons of up to one dozen cruise lines at one time on a single computer screen.

5. Because they book trips in volume and have longstanding relationships with travel providers, travel agents routinely lasso preferred rates and extra amenities that you and your favorite travel site will rarely match.

6. There are in fact a whole host of discounted services that only your travel agent can book for you, including complimentary shuttles, coupon books, frequent-visitor programs, tour packages, and other offers.

7. Can't decide whether your best bet is to travel by train, plane, or automobile? Your travel agent can do the math and help you decide by weighing factors like travel duration, scheduling, cost, and comfort.

8. Your travel agent will tell you that the most overlooked way to stretch your dollar is to form your own travel group. Traveling with family or friends, or both, can lower costs enough so you can travel even when the economy says otherwise. Of course, most of us don't have the time - or inclination - to make the calls and do the research for an entire group. It's a big job. On the other hand, booking group travel is a breeze for an experienced travel agent. As far as I'm concerned, when it comes to groups, using an agent is a no-brainer. Your agent will create a package that actually works, while your group will realize across-the-board savings from splitting the cost of car rentals, gas, and meals, as well as savings from group lodging discounts that your agent discovers.

So do yourself a favor and talk to your travel agent next time you travel. Whether times are good or not, travel agents are your secret weapon, hiding in plain sight.

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