Travel agents are booming. But a premium travel credit card might do the job for less

Even though travel has gotten more expensive, people are increasingly finding value in hiring someone to help them do it. According to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) , travel agency sales are estimated to reach $165 billion by 2028, up from $128 billion in 2025. More than a quarter of travel is now booked through travel agencies, as travelers seek help navigating complex trips and planning higher-end experiences. But if you don't want to pay for a travel agent — ahem, "travel adviser" — the solution may already be in your wallet. With the right credit card, you can get help booking flights, hotels and all sorts of experiences. Still, they can't fully replace the human touch and expertise of a real travel adviser. Here's how a premium travel credit card can act as your travel agent. Get closer to your next vacation with a Capital One card Offers in this section are from affiliate partners and selected based on a combination of engagement, product relevance, compensation, and consistent availability. Earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles How a credit card can be your travel agent Dedicated 24/7 concierges Yes, some premium credit cards do offer access to "concierge" services that take the hassle out of booking your next dinner spot or scoring tickets to an event. For instance, the American Express Platinum Card® offers a service called Platinum Card ® Concierge, which is free for eligible card members. …