03 Jun 2025
In 2025, more Nigerians living in the Netherlands are taking control of their travel plans. Instead of using traditional travel agencies like they used to, they’re turning to online platforms, flight apps, and self-service tools.
But why this sudden shift?
Let’s explore the key reasons behind this trend and how it’s changing the way Nigerians in the Netherlands book their flights.
One of the top reasons Nigerians are avoiding travel agencies is the cost. Many travelers have discovered that booking through agencies often includes extra service charges, hidden fees, and commission that could be avoided by booking directly online. For example, while a return flight to Lagos may show as €650 online, an agency might quote over €700 once you add their fees.
Why pay more when the same seat is available online for less? This is especially important for Nigerian migrants who want to save money and send money to Nigeria from Netherlands.
Many people have had poor experiences with travel agencies. Some travelers complain about:
In a time when flight prices are rising and scams are becoming common, trust is more important than ever. Unfortunately, not all travel agencies live up to their promises, and many Nigerians have decided they’d rather avoid the risk altogether.
In 2025, you don’t need to walk into a travel office to buy a flight ticket.
Platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Hopper, and airline websites are making it simple to search, compare, and book tickets in just a few clicks.
With mobile apps and instant confirmations, the process is now faster, easier, and more transparent.
Most Nigerians in the Netherlands are now digitally connected, using tools like:
They are comfortable using digital platforms for daily needs, so booking a flight online is now just as natural.
When you book through a travel agency, you’re depending on someone else to make changes, cancel flights, or handle upgrades.
But with direct online booking, you can:
This control is useful for Nigerians who often need to change travel plans based on work schedules, family needs, or visa conditions. Online bookings also allow you to track ticket prices, set alerts, and grab cheaper fares.
Unfortunately, travel scams are on the rise in Europe. Some fake “travel agents” advertise cheap flights to Nigeria, collect money, and disappear. Others sell fake tickets or create fake bookings that get canceled at the airport. For Nigerian expats who’ve been victims of such scams, the lesson is clear: do it yourself or use official platforms only.
Avoiding shady middlemen protects not just your money but your peace of mind.
During the pandemic, many people learned that booking directly with airlines gives better protection. Airlines like KLM, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Air France have clear cancellation policies when you book with them directly. But if you book through a third-party travel agency, getting a refund may take months, or never come at all.
Nigerians in the Netherlands now prefer to book directly to avoid long refund delays and unclear terms.
Many Nigerian migrants in the Netherlands want to save more and support their families back home.
Why pay extra for a ticket when that money could go toward:
Avoiding travel agency fees is one way to cut costs and stretch their hard-earned euros.
The shift away from travel agencies among Nigerians in the Netherlands is not just about saving money, it's about being smarter and safer.
Today’s migrants are more informed, more connected, and more careful. They:
Why overpay or risk delays when you can do it all yourself online, faster, cheaper, and safer? So if you’re planning your next trip home, do your research, compare prices, and take control of your booking. And when you need to send money from Netherlands to Nigeria, choose a platform that’s secure and reliable like ACE Money Transfer.
No, not all agencies are bad. Some offer value, especially for complex trips. But many Nigerians now prefer more control and lower fees, which online tools provide.
Many YouTube tutorials explain how to book flights. You can also ask friends or family to help. Just be careful with who you trust.
Yes. Flying in low seasons (like February, May, or September) is often cheaper. Booking early also helps you avoid high last-minute prices.
