Rebecca Smiley is proof that travel agents are making a comeback, and young people are driving demand. Smiley, 28, changed careers to become a travel advisor and is on track to book $1 million in trips for her clients this year, up from roughly $800,000 in 2024. Her trip bookings vary from $1,000 Vegas getaways to $21,000 weekend cruise packages. But regardless of budget, she says some travel expenses are worth splurging on, whereas for others you should save.
Where to splurge and save on travel
If you’re going to spend more in one travel category, make it your accommodations, Smiley says. Hostel or camping trips have their place, but booking a


