To Travel agent or not to travel agent, that is the question

These days, when you take a trip all you really need is a computer and a credit card to make your arrangements. Travel sites such as Orbitz, Travelocity and CheapTickets give travelers the power and flexibility to create and purchase their own trips, while taking advantage of deals and discounts along the way.

So who needs a travel agent anymore? Well, actually, there are still times when an agent comes in handy. For example:

You donít have time. Let a travel agent can do the research for you. Finding deals on the Internet can be time consuming, and a travel agent can do the legwork quickly and efficiently.

Specialty itineraries. If you are considering a vacation to tour ballparks, festivals, music cruises, national parks, etc. a travel agent can be invaluable setting up an itinerary to fit your budget.

Taking a cruise. "Travel agents who are cruise specialists can easily find excellent discounts and/or cabin upgrades," says Dunnan. The overwhelming number of cruises and destinations make it difficult for the first-time cruiser to select the right trip, and a travel agent can help with that too.

Anticipating trouble. If you're traveling to areas prone to hurricanes during hurricane season, use an agent, who "will make certain that you are booked into resorts and hotels that will refund some or part of your costs should a hurricane hit the area. An agent can also help you move from one destination to another, get you back home and help you get a refund," says Dunnan. In fact, travel agents are always useful if you're traveling in an area that has been struck by disaster. "We had a number of subscribers tell us how their agent helped them deal with travel problems during the days and weeks after 9/11. More recently, praise for agents came in from readers traveling in Colorado and other states during the huge snowstorms.

Special needs travel. Elderly or ill travelers can benefit from the extra care travel agents can secure. A travel agent can negotiate access for medical equipment such as wheelchairs and oxygen and can also find you safe and easily accessible accommodations.

Business interruptions. And if your airline goes on strike or declares bankruptcy, a travel agent can help you quickly get an alternative flight. So carry your travel agent's contact information with you on the trip.

When choosing a travel agent, Dunnan recommends finding one who belongs to the American Society of Travel Agents.