For travel agents just starting or running a small business, free online booking engines can be a good solution. But not all free booking engines offer the necessary features to run an effective travel agency. In this post, we’ll look at what you can expect from free booking engines and why investing in a comprehensive solution like easyGDS may be a better long-term strategy.
What is a Free Online Booking Engine?
A free online booking engine provides travel agents with basic booking functionalities without an upfront cost. However, free versions often come with limitations, such as restricted access to inventory, limited customer support, and fewer customization options. While these engines can be a great starting point, they often don't scale well as your business grows.
Key Features to Look for in a Free Booking Engine
- Access to Inventory
Some free booking engines offer limited access to flights, hotels, and car rentals. However, platforms like easyGDS provide a comprehensive inventory that grows with your business. - Customization
Most free engines don’t offer the ability to customize mark-ups or packages, which can limit profitability. easyGDS allows full control over pricing and customization, even offering a free trial so you can experience the difference. - Customer Support
Free engines often offer minimal support, which can be problematic if you run into issues. easyGDS offers 24/7 support for agents, ensuring you’re never left on your own.
Best Free Options for Travel Agents
While there are a few free booking engines available, they often come with limitations. Here are some free options, as well as why you might want to consider upgrading to easyGDS:
- BedBooking: Primarily for accommodation management, BedBooking is free for basic use. However, it lacks the full suite of features available on easyGDS, such as dynamic mark-ups and full GDS integration.
- Rezgo: Rezgo is a free booking engine for tours and activities. While it’s a good start, easyGDS provides a more comprehensive platform that includes flights, hotels, and more in addition to tours.
- SimplyBook.me: Another free booking engine focusing on appointments and activities, SimplyBook.me doesn’t provide the full range of travel services that easyGDS does.
Why Consider Upgrading to easyGDS?
While free booking engines can be helpful in the early stages, they are often too limited to scale as your business grows. Investing in a platform like easyGDS offers long-term benefits, such as:
- Full GDS integration
- Advanced reporting and analytics
- Customizable mark-ups and dynamic packaging
- 24/7 customer support
With a free trial available on easyGDS, you can experience the full power of the platform without upfront costs.
