Frequently Asked Questions

For Buyers

Is TripEngine free for buyers?

Yes — there is no cost to browse programs, submit a trip brief, or connect with a planner. Fees are only applied when a booking is confirmed.

How is TripEngine different from a travel agency?

TripEngine is a marketplace, not an agency. We connect you with independent expert planners who own and operate their own businesses. You hire the planner directly — TripEngine facilitates the connection.

Can I request a custom trip if nothing matches my brief?

Yes. If no existing programs match your brief well enough, we will connect you with a planner who can build a custom program from scratch.

How long does it take to get matched?

Matching happens instantly after you submit your trip brief. If we find strong matches, you will see them immediately. Connecting with a planner and receiving a proposal typically takes 24 to 48 hours.

For Planners

Is there a cost to join?

No. There is no upfront cost to join TripEngine as a planner. We charge a transaction fee on completed bookings only.

Do I keep my vendor relationships?

Yes. TripEngine does not require you to use specific vendors or change how you work. Your relationships, pricing, and supplier network remain yours.

How do buyers find my programs?

Buyers use our AI trip builder to describe what they need. We match their brief against your programs using semantic search. The better your listing content, the better your match scores.

Can I list multiple programs?

Yes — you can list as many programs as you have. More programs means more surface area for buyer matching.