Research by consumer group Choice says it's cheaper to plan your own vacations and make your own bookings.
While travel agencies will tell you research is time consuming and costly, consumer group Choice has proven that making your own bookings can save you hundreds if not more in travel expenses.
They set up three hypothetical trips to Bali for couples, families and singles and each time found that making your own arrangements put you on top.
For a family on a 9 day holiday, the saving was only $100 if they booked themselves, but for a couple on a romantic escape the savings were nearly $500.
In addition to being cheaper Choice says planning your own holiday has the added benefit of giving you total control and flexibility.
But with total control comes the time consuming research into the options, travel agents say their job is to make the holiday as hassle free as possible, from booking through to the end of the trip.
Postman injured in Wannanup crash
Man charged after allegedly stealing service medals from Greenfields storage unit
South West resort receptionist charged with 32 fraud offences
Daughter of Port Kennedy hit-and-run victim pleads for offenders to hand themselves in
Concerns for missing woman last seen in Mandurah
Mandurah woman wanted for questioning over current investigation
Investigation underway into Bunbury sexual assault
Two motorcyclists seriously injured in separate crashes
Miraculous escape for two men after plane goes down south of Mandurah