Self-service reservation

A self-service reservation is a booking made directly by a traveler via online systems and without the help of a travel agent or customer service rep. This method is now standard in both leisure and corporate travel, allowing users to reserve flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and other services online.

Travelers make self-service reservations through platforms such as hotel websites, online travel agencies (OTAs), airline apps, or corporate travel portals. These systems are connected to booking engines and global distribution systems (GDSs), which provide real-time availability and pricing information. 

Beyond reservations, the travel industry is increasingly focused on self-service solutions for the entire journey, from trip planning to post-arrival services. Passengers now check in online, drop off luggage at kiosks, pass through automated passport control, and use digital keys to access hotel rooms.

This shift is driven by a need for efficiency and convenience since self-service systems help travel providers reduce operational costs, speed up service, and support upselling of ancillary services.