do travel agents get discounts at disney

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

Why become a Disney trip planner?

How to become a disney travel agent, save money as a disney vacation planner, how much do disney travel agents make, final thoughts on becoming a disney travel agent.

If you’re a fan of Disney and you like to travel, it’s possible for you to combine these passions into a career or side hustle. By becoming a Disney travel agent, you can earn money by making bookings for clients and also save on your own Disney adventures.

Here's a look at how to become a Disney travel agent and the ways it can save you money and help you earn some cash while helping others make their Disney dreams come true.

As a Disney travel agent:

You can receive benefits on personal travel, such as discounted hotel rooms, free theme park tickets and complimentary Disney cruises.

You control your own schedule and how much you work.

You will be able to work from home in most cases.

You’ll earn a commission on successful bookings.

» Learn more: 10 ways to save on your first — or next — Disney vacation

Becoming a Disney travel advisor is similar to the process of becoming a regular travel agent.

First, you’ll need to meet specific travel agent requirements — but there are additional criteria needed to specialize in selling Disney vacations.

You’ll have to become familiar with Disney’s entire portfolio of products including Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Lines, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii and Adventures by Disney. In addition, clients may also ask Disney travel agents to book Universal Studios, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line packages.

If you’re already a travel agent , you can register for Disney travel agent training on the Disney Travel Agents website. Once you’ve created an account, you’ll need to complete the College of Disney Knowledge training, which includes online classes and information about Disney Destinations.

If you’re not already a certified travel agent , you’ll need to become one before signing up for Disney travel agent training. Certification programs vary in terms of cost, time commitment and requirements. Once you've completed a program, you can choose to join a travel agency or operate on your own as a small business. At this point, you can register for the Disney training.

Once finished, you’re eligible to become an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and entitled to all the benefits that the designation includes.

» Learn more: Do travel agents really save you money?

Disney travel agent benefits are one of the reasons to become a Disney vacation planner. Perks include special access to discounted hotel rates and other advantages, like:

Disney travel agent discounts

Disney travel agents can take advantage of discounted rates on accommodation and park entrance fees for their personal trips as well. This also applies to Disney branded hotels, in addition to other properties, cruises and excursions that include:

Disneyland Resort Hotels.

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels.

Adventures by Disney.

Disney Cruise Line.

Select all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.

The discounts will vary based on where you’re going, but you can expect to save up to 50%.

Adventures by Disney are guided vacation packages, which include Antarctic cruises, European getaways and more.

» Learn more: What a travel agent can do for you that a search engine can't

Complimentary Disney Park Hopper tickets annually

Businesses want you to be familiar with what you’re selling. After all, the better you know a place, the more capable you’ll be of helping clients choose the right vacation.

To that end, Disney provides Authorized Disney Vacation Planners with complimentary theme park tickets . As a standard Disney travel agent, you’ll receive a one-day Park Hopper ticket to either Walt Disney World or Disneyland each year.

Or, if you want to visit for a longer period of time, you can opt for discounted two- to 10-day Park Hopper tickets at Walt Disney World.

The highest-performing travel agents are recognized by Disney’s EarMarked. This invite-only program grants extra support and perks, such as additional complimentary theme park tickets.

» Learn more: Is the Disney Park Hopper worth it?

Discounted Universal Studios tickets

Cheaper tickets aren’t limited to Disney. As a Disney travel agent, you’ll also receive up to four half-price tickets to Universal Studios per year.

» Learn more: How to go to Disney World for cheap

Discounted Disney cruises and increased commissions

Disney cruise travel agents can also score reduced or free tickets to Disney cruises. Depending on the travel agency you work with, agencies with a high number of sales can earn increased commissions on sales associated with cruises.

» Learn more: How much does a Disney Cruise cost?

Disney travel agents work on commission, which means that they make money only when their clients book and complete vacations.

Disney pays up to a 10% commission to travel agents, depending on the package booked for the customer. Disney cruises yield a higher commission. If you’re working independently, you’ll receive the full commission amount — so if your client booked a $5,000 vacation pretax, you’d receive $500 in commission.

You can also opt to join an existing travel agency. These companies offer more support and can help you if you’re just getting started. Depending on the agency, it can also provide marketing support and send leads your way.

If you choose to join a travel agency , you’ll split your commission. The rate for this will vary based on where you’re working, but you can expect to receive up to 75% of the total commission Disney pays out.

This means that if you had a client taking a vacation that cost $5,000 pretax, Disney would pay the travel agency $500. At a 75% split, you would be paid $375. It’s less than you’d make if you were operating on your own, but it may be worth it for the added support and access to interested clients.

» Learn more: The best Disney resort for adults

There’s no denying that there are benefits to becoming a Disney travel agent. This includes free theme park tickets, discounted rates at official Disney hotels and even savings on cruises. Aside from these perks, you can also turn your passion into a job by selling Disney vacation packages to customers.

Whatever your reason for wanting to become a Disney travel agent, you’ll need to first become a certified travel agent, then complete Disney’s specialized training program.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-3x Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Theme Parks for Grown-Ups

11 Amazing Benefits You Get as an At-Home Disney Travel Planner

Travel Agent · Travel Guide

All the Discounts, Special Training, and Benefits You Receive as a Travel Agent

Imagine receiving huge discounts on your Disney vacations. Not just the normal discounts that anyone can get. Discounts that make your travel obsession a little more affordable.

That’s the life of a Travel Agent. As a travel professional, you get access to incredible benefits like discounts on Disney hotels, theme park tickets at reduced rates, and the ability to tour cruise ships for free.

Not to mention getting paid to plan theme park vacations.

Um. Yes, please! 

This article is a continuation of my Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Disney Travel Planner. That’s where you can learn the travel lingo I use in this article and get an in-depth look at starting a career a Travel Agent.

I’ve been a Disney Travel Planner for three years and have built my travel business from nothing. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that I could get travel benefits and make magic for a living. 

Now I want to share all my experience with those of you who want to start your dream job too!

To get started, sign up for my FREE course below: How to Jumpstart Your Career as a Disney Travel Planner in 5 Days!

Helpful Resources for Travel Agents

• Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Career as a Disney or Universal Travel Planner
• Host Agency Reviews
• How to Jumpstart Your Career as a Travel Agent in 5 Steps

Earn Commission for Your Own Vacations

Yes, you can earn money by booking your own vacations! Whether you’re booking a vacation for yourself or a client, you will earn money doing it. This means you’re getting a fairly large discount on your own travel plans. A commission can be earned on Disney hotels, theme park tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars, and other travel.

How do you get paid for your travel?

You will receive your commission once your vacation is finished.

How much of a commission do you receive when you book a vacation?

It depends on the price of your purchases and the commission cut you get from your Host Agency. 

As an example, you will earn about 10% commission on Disney World packages. Meaning, you can book a vacation including tickets and a hotel stay for about $2000 and get back around $200.

That’s a fantastic discount if you already plan on staying onsite. You can apply any deals or discounts Disney may be running at the time too!

Prefer to watch a video about the perks of becoming a Disney Travel Planner? 

Watch the video below and follow me on YouTube for more!

Booking Incentives

Most companies will give you incentives to sell more travel. For example, Disney recently ran a campaign that allowed you to earn a free Adventures by Disney River Cruise if you booked three River Cruise packages. Many other travel companies run incentives whether it’s for free cruises, tours, or resort stays. The incentive motivates you to sell more, earn more commission, and receive bonus vacations for yourself!

Property and Ship Tours  

The opportunity to tour Disney properties and cruise ships is my favorite benefit of all! Disney will often schedule private tours for Travel Agents in Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney cruise ships for Travel Agents. The purpose of the private tour is to familiarize yourself with hotels and cruise ships you haven’t visited before. This way you can explain the properties to your clients in detail and sell vacation packages more effectively.

The hotel tours give you a chance to see the rooms, facilities, and restaurants up-close. While the Disney Cruise Line tours allow you to experience a Disney cruise ship without paying for a full cruise vacation. For both, you will have a guide that can answer any of your specific questions.

Plus, it’s super fun to visit the properties if you’ve never been on a cruise or stayed at a Disney resort!

Sales & Marketing Assistance

College of disney knowledge.

Ever fantasized about going to Disney school? Want to major in Churros with a minor in Fireworks? Well, you’re going to love the College of Disney Knowledge.

Sadly, you won’t be able to learn how to make churros. You will be guided through course units that teach you about the theme parks and other Disney destinations. Chances are you probably know a lot about Disney, but these courses are designed to fill in the gaps for other experiences you may not know about. Getting to know all of Disney makes it easier for you to sell diverse vacation packages like Aulani or Adventures by Disney. Your clients will appreciate your Disney knowledge too!

In-Person Training

The Disney Institute offers training seminars focused on leadership, employee engagement, and service. The program is a great way for travel leaders to hone their sales skills. The program travels to regions across the U.S. so you don’t have to go too far from home! Disney Institue courses have a fee, but they offer discounts to Travel Agents sometimes.

Additional in-person training sessions are held throughout the year too. Last year, AMA Waterways and Adventures by Disney held a Lunch and Learn where Travel Agents came together for a seminar. 

Universal Studios also hosts in-person training sessions across the country. These sessions are free to Travel Agents! It’s a great way to meet other travel professionals and learn about the theme parks from the company’s leaders.

Work from Home

What’s better than getting to work in your Mickey pajamas? In all seriousness, working from home means working around your schedule and on your terms. I wanted to make a career change because I wanted the flexibility of working from anywhere. Now I have the ability to work during my own set hours and I’m only accountable for myself.

One Word of Advice: Create office hours for yourself and stick with them. Communicate to your clients what hours you’re available and do not contact them outside of these hours. 

Unless it is a true travel emergency, there is no reason for your clients to be contacting you at all hours of the night. Create clear boundaries or people will begin to take advantage of your time, whether it is intentional or not.

Travel Perks For Experienced Travel Agents

All the perks I’ve mentioned are valid for new and experienced Travel Agents. Once you become more established and earn your IATA or CLIA card you will have access to a lot more benefits! 

This is true for theme park vacations and almost any other destination you decide to sell. Organizations like Sandals, ClubMed, Funjet, and AMA Waterways provide Travel Agents with the opportunity to take Familiarization (“FAM”) Trips. FAM Trips are a way for Travel Agents to experience the destinations at a highly discounted rate so they can sell the product easier.

I mean, it’s pretty much the coolest training session you’ll ever be a part of.

On top of that, you can earn deals with other industries like tours, rental cars, or transportation companies. When you sign on with a Host Agency they will be able to tell you what kind of Travel Agent rates are available.

Disney Resort Discounts

Disney and Universal often provide Travel Agent deep-cut rates for onsite resorts. The rates are usually quite good and you’re allowed to share the room with your immediate family. I’ve seen rooms be discounted by about 50% in the past. The only disadvantage is that the rooms are subject to availability and there are some blockout dates around Christmastime. Despite that, you’re getting a fantastic rate for an official Disney hotel. You will have to have a valid IATA card to make the reservations.

Offsite Resort Discounts

Most chain hotels will offer Travel Agent discounts too. If it’s not explicitly listed anywhere on the website, just call the hotel and ask for their Travel Agent rates. If anything, you will probably get the commission back for booking with them.

Discounted or Free Theme Park Tickets 

Some Host Agencies will offer a free one-day pass to the theme parks and others will give you a good discount on them. This is dependent on the status of your Host Agency and you will have to check with them to see if you qualify.

Other Discounts

The main discount that Travel Agents go crazy about are hotel rates. Outside of that, you can get a ton of discounts on Disney cruises, Aulani, Adventures by Disney, and pretty much anything else they own.

Much like the resorts, you can get some pretty hefty discounts on any of these. I’ve seen cruise cabins for $1600 be discounted to $800. This depends on cruise availability and they usually release cabins around two months in advance of the departure date. This means you will have less time to prepare for travel, but you’ll get a nice deal.

You get to Plan Disney Vacations for a Living

I truly believe this is the best perk of all. When I learned that people were making a living planning theme park vacations, I knew it was my calling. I daydreamed about the day I could quit my office job and become a full-time Disney Travel Planner. Now I spend my days looking up rates for Disney hotels, creating in-depth itineraries for the parks, and connecting with amazing families across the country.

The job is fun, but it’s also extremely gratifying. I’m constantly receiving feedback from my clients expressing their gratitude about how I made their vacation an amazing experience they will never forget.

Check out this email I received from the Jackson family.

“I just wanted to follow up with you after our trip and tell you what a fantastic time we had! It was seriously the best vacation we’ve ever taken. The weather was great (luckily), the kids had a blast, and everything was soooo convenient! The Polynesian was an A++ recommendation and you made everything so easy for us. Thanks again for all of the help – we’re already trying to figure out when we can go back!” -Trent, Chicago

Emails like this tell me that I chose the right career and I’m doing my job well. There’s nothing better than doing something you love, making magic for families, and earning money while you do it. Want to learn how to get started as a Disney Travel Planner right now? Fill out the form below and learn how to start your new career!

Don’t lose these tips!

Do Disney Travel Agents Get Discounts? (The Ultimate Guide)

Do Disney Travel Agents Get Discounts?

When it comes to planning a trip to Disney World, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important decisions is whether or not to use a travel agent. After all, travel agents can help you save money, book your flights and hotel, and make sure your trip goes smoothly. But do Disney travel agents get discounts?

The answer is yes, Disney travel agents do get discounts on tickets and other expenses. However, the amount of the discount varies depending on the agent and the type of discount. Some agents offer a flat percentage off of your total purchase, while others offer a set amount of money off. Additionally, some agents may only offer discounts on certain types of purchases, such as tickets or hotel stays.

If you’re considering using a Disney travel agent, it’s important to do your research and compare different agents to find the one that offers the best discounts and services. You can also ask for references from past clients to get an idea of what to expect.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Disney travel agent discounts and how you can get the best possible deal on your next trip to Disney World.

Disney travel agents are a valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or any other Disney destination. They can help you book your flights, hotels, and tickets, and they can also provide advice on the best places to eat, stay, and play.

One of the biggest questions that people have about Disney travel agents is whether or not they get discounts. The answer is yes, Disney travel agents do get discounts on their own travel, as well as on the travel of their clients.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of Disney travel agents, the discounts that they offer, and how you can find a Disney travel agent who can help you plan your next magical vacation.

Types of Disney Travel Agents

There are three main types of Disney travel agents:

• Authorized Disney Vacation Planners (AVDPs) : AVDPs are travel agents who are authorized by Disney to sell Disney vacations. They have access to special Disney discounts and offers, and they can help you plan your entire trip, from flights and hotels to tickets and dining reservations.
• Independent Disney Travel Agents (IDTAs) : IDTAs are travel agents who are not affiliated with Disney, but who specialize in booking Disney vacations. They can offer the same discounts as AVDPs, but they may not have the same level of access to Disney resources.
• Online Disney Travel Agents: Online Disney travel agents are travel agents who operate their businesses online. They can offer the same discounts as AVDPs and IDTAs, but they may not be able to provide the same level of personal service.

Discounts Offered by Disney Travel Agents

Disney travel agents offer a variety of discounts on Disney vacations, including:

• General discounts: Disney travel agents typically offer a 10% discount on Disney vacations. This discount is available to all clients, regardless of their age or travel dates.
• Discounts for specific types of travelers: Disney travel agents also offer discounts to specific types of travelers, such as military members, seniors, and students.
• Discounts for specific travel dates: Disney travel agents can also offer discounts on Disney vacations during certain times of the year, such as during the off-season or during special events.
• Discounts for specific travel packages: Disney travel agents can also offer discounts on specific travel packages, such as those that include airfare, hotel, and tickets.

How to Find a Disney Travel Agent

If you’re interested in finding a Disney travel agent, there are a few things you can do:

• Ask for recommendations: Ask your friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations for Disney travel agents.
• Search online: There are a number of websites that list Disney travel agents. You can search by location, type of agent, or specialization.
• Contact Disney directly: You can also contact Disney directly to request a list of authorized Disney Vacation Planners in your area.

Once you’ve found a few Disney travel agents, you can interview them to see which one is the best fit for you. Be sure to ask about their experience, their level of expertise, and the discounts that they offer.

Disney travel agents are a valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or any other Disney destination. They can help you save money on your vacation, and they can also help you make the most of your trip.

If you’re thinking about planning a Disney vacation, be sure to consider using a Disney travel agent. You won’t regret it!

Additional Resources

• [Disney Travel Agent Website](https://disneytravelagent.com/)
• [Disney Travel Agent Blog](https://disneytravelagentblog.com/)
• [Disney Travel Agent Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/DisneyTravelAgent/)
• [Disney Travel Agent Twitter Page](https://twitter.com/disneytravelagent)

Disney travel agents are often able to get discounts on Disney vacations for their clients. This is because they have access to special rates and deals that are not available to the general public. However, the amount of discount that a Disney travel agent can get varies depending on the agent’s experience, the type of vacation package they are booking, and the time of year.

In general, Disney travel agents can get discounts of anywhere from 10% to 20% off the regular price of a Disney vacation. However, it is possible to get even bigger discounts if you are booking a package that includes multiple tickets, hotels, and other extras.

It is important to note that not all Disney travel agents are created equal. Some agents are more experienced and have better relationships with Disney than others. This means that they may be able to get better discounts for their clients. It is also important to remember that the time of year you are booking your vacation can affect the amount of discount you can get. During peak season, Disney vacations are typically more expensive and there are fewer discounts available.

If you are considering using a Disney travel agent, it is important to do your research and find an agent who has a good reputation and is experienced in booking Disney vacations. You should also ask the agent about the specific discounts they are able to get and how they can help you save money on your vacation.

How to Find the Best Disney Travel Agent

There are a few things you can do to find the best Disney travel agent for your needs.

• Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have used a Disney travel agent. This is a great way to get a personal recommendation from someone who has had a positive experience with a particular agent.
• Read online reviews of Disney travel agents. There are many websites where you can read reviews of Disney travel agents. This can be a helpful way to get an idea of what other people have thought of the service they received from a particular agent.
• Compare the services and fees of different Disney travel agents. Not all Disney travel agents are created equal. Some agents offer a wider range of services than others, and some agents charge higher fees. It is important to compare the services and fees of different agents before you make a decision about who to use.

Once you have found a few potential Disney travel agents, you can contact them to get more information about their services and fees. You should also ask them about their experience booking Disney vacations and how they can help you save money on your trip.

Tips for Working with a Disney Travel Agent

Once you have chosen a Disney travel agent, there are a few things you can do to make sure you have a positive experience working with them.

• Be clear about your travel goals and budget. The more information you can provide your Disney travel agent about your travel goals and budget, the better they will be able to help you find the perfect vacation package.
• Provide the Disney travel agent with as much information as possible about your trip. This includes information about your desired dates of travel, number of travelers, and any special needs or interests you have.
• Be prepared to ask questions and negotiate prices. Disney travel agents are there to help you, but they are also working for a commission. It is important to be prepared to ask questions and negotiate prices in order to get the best possible deal on your vacation.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a positive experience working with a Disney travel agent and that you get the best possible deal on your vacation.

Using a Disney travel agent can be a great way to save money on your vacation and ensure that you have a positive experience. By following the tips in this article, you can find the best Disney travel agent for your needs and get the best possible deal on your vacation.

Do Disney travel agents get discounts?

Yes, Disney travel agents do get discounts on Disney vacations. The amount of the discount varies depending on the agent and the type of vacation package. Some agents offer discounts of up to 20% on Disney hotels, tickets, and other vacation packages.

How do I find a Disney travel agent?

There are a few different ways to find a Disney travel agent. You can search online for Disney travel agents in your area, or you can contact Disney directly for a list of authorized agents. You can also ask friends or family for recommendations for a good Disney travel agent.

What should I look for when choosing a Disney travel agent?

When choosing a Disney travel agent, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the agent is authorized by Disney. This means that the agent has been trained by Disney and is familiar with the company’s policies and procedures. Second, consider the agent’s experience. How long have they been working in the travel industry? How many Disney vacations have they booked? Third, get references from other clients. What did they think of the agent’s service?

What are the benefits of using a Disney travel agent?

There are many benefits to using a Disney travel agent. First, agents can help you plan the perfect Disney vacation. They can recommend the best hotels, tickets, and activities for your family. They can also help you find the best deals on Disney vacations. Second, agents can provide expert advice and support. They can answer your questions about Disney vacations and help you resolve any problems that arise. Third, agents can save you money on your Disney vacation. They can negotiate discounts on hotels, tickets, and other vacation packages.

How can I get a discount on my Disney vacation without using a travel agent?

There are a few ways to get a discount on your Disney vacation without using a travel agent. You can sign up for Disney’s email list to receive promotional offers. You can also check Disney’s website for special deals and discounts. Finally, you can try calling Disney directly to see if they have any discounts available.

Is it worth using a Disney travel agent?

Whether or not it is worth using a Disney travel agent depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a personalized vacation planning experience, expert advice, and the best possible deals, then using a Disney travel agent is a good option. However, if you are comfortable planning your own vacation and are not interested in paying a commission, then you may be able to save money by booking your vacation directly with Disney.

Disney travel agents do get discounts on their own bookings and on the bookings of their clients. The amount of the discount varies depending on the agent’s level of experience and the volume of business they do with Disney. However, even a small discount can add up to significant savings over time, especially for families who travel to Disney World frequently.

In addition to discounts on tickets and hotel rooms, Disney travel agents can also offer other perks such as free dining, character meet-and-greets, and front-of-the-line access to rides. These perks can make a big difference in the overall experience of a Disney vacation, and they can help to make it more affordable for families on a budget.

If you are planning a trip to Disney World, it is worth considering hiring a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations. A good agent can help you save money, book the best possible accommodations, and make sure that your vacation is everything you dreamed it would be.

Author Profile

Latest entries

• January 19, 2024 Hiking How to Lace Hiking Boots for a Perfect Fit
• January 19, 2024 Camping How to Dispose of Camping Propane Tanks the Right Way
• January 19, 2024 Traveling Information Is Buffalo Still Under Travel Ban? (Updated for 2023)
• January 19, 2024 Cruise/Cruising Which Carnival Cruise Is Best for Families?

the disney food blog

food IS a theme park

Read the Latest Posts

Looking for something?

Get the dfb newsletter.

STAY CONNECTED

The Ultimate Guide To Disney World Travel Agents

By Lisa Gilmore 4 Comments

Walt Disney World is comprised of four theme parks, a shopping and dining district, two water parks, and over 25 Resort hotels …and that’s just scratching the surface!

Wouldn’t you love to see this view every day?

Planning for a Disney trip can be overwhelming, even for the most seasoned Disney visitor. There are SO many things to consider and learn.  Where do you stay ?  What’s the dining situation like ?  What types of tickets are there ? Don’t worry, you do NOT have to figure this all out on your own.

A decade ago, planning your Disney trip was do-able…and even fun — like the anticipation of seeing all of the presents under the tree before Christmas. But today, things are different. With Park Pass Reservations, Disney’s Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selection in place , dining that needs to be booked 60 days in advance, literally dozens of hotels on property and hundreds off-property, dessert parties , memorable behind-the-scenes tours , activities , and more…it’s just plain overwhelming to try to figure it all out. Disney World is about TWICE the size of Manhattan…and just as packed with options.

There Is SO Much to Do in Disney World

So, if reading this article is starting to give you anxiety, take a deep breath… let it out… and repeat this mantra, “Fish are friends, not food.” Ok, ok, not the mantra you’re looking for, but Disney vacations are supposed to be magical, right?

Not drive you panic-driven madness. Those tear-jerking commercials all involve happy families without a care in the world, not anxiety-riddle adults on the verge of exhaustion, desperately trying to mobile order lunch (yep, that’s a thing…) before their hangry family launches into full meltdown (we’re not speaking from experience at all… 😂).

So, how do you become one of those carefree families in the commercials? Well, that might take a bit of planning…

Celebration Buttons

If you’ve been to Disney before , you may have a general idea. Maybe a specific idea. Maybe a very specific idea, including a spreadsheet and a three-ring binder detailing every move your family will make once they pass beneath that magical archway.

But regardless of where you fall on this planning spectrum, using a Disney-certified travel agent  will help ensure not only that you’re checking off all of the right boxes, but that you have all of the right boxes on your checklist, to begin with!

Why use a Disney Travel Agent? Here are a few reasons!

Disney Certified Travel Agents are FREE

You may think it costs more. And that there are hidden fees they don’t tell you about. But as it turns out, Travel Agents don’t cost you a penny. Disney-certified travel agents do not charge clients for their services because they earn commissions from Disney.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

So you pay no extra fees and can spend more time anticipating and enjoying your vacation. It’s a win for the Agents (who genuinely love doing this stuff) and a win for you.

Finding the Best Discount

Travel Agents, especially those considered “Authorized Disney Vacation Planners,”  know what deals are out there ahead of the rest of us. If a new deal comes along after you’ve already made a reservation (e.g. Disney+ Discounts , Annual Passholder Discounts , etc), they can rework your existing reservation to save you some cash. They can also run the numbers to see which deal is going to be the better value.

They do the math for you. So, you can put away your high school economics book and spreadsheet for finding the break-even point on discount rate versus park days ratios. And the best part is, they’ve been doing this a REALLY. LONG. TIME. 

Hollywood Studios

So they probably already know what deal is best. Before it’s even announced.  And since they usually get a little head’s up from Disney about upcoming discounts, they can work it onto your existing vacation for you, usually before you even know it’s an option! So not only do you not have to worry about doing the math (phew!), you also don’t have to worry about missing out on the discount (since sometimes those bad boys are limited).

Planning Tips & Advice

Your agent’s got your back. They can advise you on resort choice, vacation package, and tickets that will suit your family’s unique needs. Overall, they make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. They’ve been there and done that, and they can tell you the most stress-free way to have your best vacation ever.

Now let’s talk reservations and planning for when you’re actually on Disney property! Here’s where a Travel Agent can be a super-valuable asset. Disney travel agents know:

• The most popular restaurants and when they need to be booked
• How to get those super-coveted reservations  (and might be able to snag them FOR you!)
• Alternatives to those restaurants if they’re full
• What rides, attractions, and events will suit your family’s unique needs
• How to help you plan an extraordinary trip within your budget
• How to craft a trip where you get to do everything you want to do …and still get enough sleep and real, honest-to-goodness “vacation” time when you’re NOT chasing your brood around the theme parks.

An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner can make suggestions for you based on which park you’ll be in for the day, making dining recommendations, and tips for planning your park days to get in all of your must-do attractions.

In short, they’ll help you narrow down those 200+ restaurant choices , hundreds of ride choices, activity options, and more, and make sure to help you hand-craft the perfect vacation for YOUR family. (Or you can grab our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining , t00.)

The ICONIC Mickey Ice Cream Bar!

Something you may  not know about Disney travel agents is that in order to maintain their Disney-certified status, they have to maintain their Disney training. Disney is constantly changing, growing, adapting, innovating, and improving, so these travel agents know the latest, greatest, best, and newest of everything Disney has to offer.

Assistance During Your Vacation

You may not know this, but Disney World is in Florida (shocker, right?). And Florida gets hurricanes ! In fact, hurricane season lasts from June to November, so chances are, when you’re visiting Disney World, it might be during hurricane season! And inclement weather can impact special Disney events (like after-hours parties ), delay flights , and even close down parks , in extreme cases.

Rainy Day in MK

And your Agent’s support doesn’t stop when you get to your resort. No matter what problems arise during your getaway — if your shuttle is canceled, your room isn’t ready, or you need to find a doctor — your Agent knows who to call to put your vacation back on track . They’re just a phone call or text message away, no matter what goes down! Because as much as we wish it, life doesn’t pause while we’re on vacation!

So whether you’re a color-coded spreadsheet-toting Disney veteran or a first-timer at the Disney parks, utilizing the skills and expertise of a Travel Agent may just surprise you. Even locals can implement the skills, discount access, and overall knowledge of a Disney Travel Agent!

Choose the Right Travel Agent

There are a lot of Disney-certified travel agents out there. If you Google it, you’ll be scrolling for days. As long as they have their certification and are designated as “earmarked” by Disney, you can likely expect good service and solid knowledge.

But if you want  our recommendation, we always choose Small World Vacations.

1. They’ve Proven Themselves:

DFB’s AJ Wolfe and Sue Pisaturo, the owner of the agency, have been friends and colleagues for years. Small World Travel is also respected and used by other leaders in the Disney Media and Travel industry by people who KNOW DISNEY and have been in the Disney travel arena for dozens of years. Small World Vacations isn’t just our preferred Disney Travel Agent, they are also preferred by, MouseSavers , and Sehlinger’s “Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.”  (So, you don’t have to just take our word for it…)

2. They Have a Reputation for Excellence:

Small World Vacations is one of the biggest Disney-focused agencies in the world, BUT all of their highly-qualified agents work full-time . This is exceptional in the travel planner arena. It means that all day, every day, Small World Vacations agents are planning Disney trips for clients — learning everything they can about how to create magical vacations and getting the depth of experience necessary to make sure your trip is a dream come true. It may sound like a little thing, but it offers huge benefits when it comes to working with an agent.

3. Testimonies from Guests (like you!):

Just take a look at some of these real-life testimonies of other Disney guests who’ve used their services.

I am writing this email to simply share how grateful my husband and I are for the help and support we got from Riley in planning our trip to Disney World. It was the first time for both of us and we have a 7 & 8 year old daughter – so we didn’t even know where to start. Riley’s responsiveness was outstanding and a little unbelievable at times – and we learned to count on it! She would make herself available for calls and made sure we were aware and on top of all the deadlines for registrations or adding special items on (Genie +, etc.). Honestly – we might not have gone given how much there is to know in planning a trip like this – but she made it simply and clear so that when we got there we had nothing to worry about. She was open about options for cost and locations and we felt like we had all the information needed to make the right decisions. I will continue to recommend Riley and will certainly reach back out should we plan another vacation with Disney! We are so grateful! — Allison

I would like to take this time to say, it has been a pleasure to work with Nikki at Small World Vacations. She always goes above and beyond to help. We had to cancel and reschedule a cruise due to Covid and Nikki was stellar. She has earned our Disney business going forward.. — Tracy

II’m writing to let you know about the simply exceptional service I’ve received from the marvelous Marion Carlson over the past year. I found her via a Google search and approached her in May of 2021 to help me plan a Christmas trip to WDW to surprise my 7-year-old daughter, Alice. Marion is amazing. She makes me feel like I am her only client, even though I know that couldn’t be further from the truth. She told me that she was thinking about me and Alice over Christmas, and I am certain that she was. Really, Marion basically IS Disney World. She is magic. I know we won’t go to WDW every year forever. And Alice won’t be this perfect WDW age forever. This is a special time in her childhood, and I’ll always be grateful to Marion for her help in giving our girl such a magical present after the terrible pandemic time (virtual school, quarantine, all of it). I am willing to bet I’m not the first of Marion’s clients writing to let you know how outstanding she is, and I’m certain I won’t be the last. — Lora

DFB Readers Get Something a Little Extra Special 😃

Yep — if you do decide to book with Small World, you just note that you heard about them through Disney Food Blog and you could get a special, unique surprise! Click here for current details!

Animal Kingdom

Phew. Don’t you feel better now? A Disney vacation can cost A LOT of money , and has A LOT of tricky nuances , but you don’t have to panic. There are pros available to help you every step of the way, and you’ll always have us to send you tips, news, and updates to make sure that your Disney vacation is as magical as possible!

It’s time to get started! Simply head over to Small World Vacations and Let the Magic Begin!

Don't do it alone.

Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.

So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you 🙂

GET MORE INFO

Are you going to Disney World in 2023? Let us know in the comments below!

TRENDING NOW

Disney has filed a NEW permit for construction at Journey Into Imagination with Figment --...

Our readers are sharing things they WISH they'd known before going to Disney World with...

This NEW bus route can take you straight to Disney Springs from the Orlando Airport...

Indoor maps are coming to several popular theme parks, and we're BEGGING Disney to use...

Find out how the "real" Tiana is officially linked to Tiana's Bayou Adventure in Disney...

Two major television shows have been canceled. Get the details here!

Listen, before you book tickets for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, you have to...

We just got a FIRST LOOK at an upcoming Magic Kingdom attraction!

Some Disney World rides require some serious pregaming before you get into line -- here's...

An EXCLUSIVE new treat is coming to Disney World soon and we're telling you how...

An accident at Universal Studios Hollywood left 15 people injured last night.

There are 2 exclusive things ONLY Disney Visa cardmembers can do in Disney World --...

Heads up! These are the biggest changes coming to Disney World in May!

It's beyond easy to make a classic 'Star Wars' drink at home. Just follow these...

Here's your LIST for drinking around the world in EPCOT!

This hallway is themed to the MONORAIL and is one of the coolest things we've...

We aren't super picky about what great food EPCOT should offer at this year's Food...

We go to Disney World every day, and we overhear a lot of conversations with...

We think Disney is going to announce the opening date for Tiana's Bayou Adventure SOON!

Get ready to sink your teeth into the best snacks in Magic Kingdom

January 6, 2023 at 12:41 pm

Kingdom Destinations !! Savanna is AMAZING!!

March 29, 2023 at 11:50 am

I’m looking to take my children to Disney

April 11, 2023 at 10:53 am

I’d like to talk to someone to help me plan my family trip

April 12, 2023 at 12:07 pm

Hi Elaine! We recommend reaching out to our friends at Small World Vacations for assistance with planning your next visit! You can find more info on their planning services here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER EBOOKS

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FEED

• Pixie Vacations
• Universal Family Vacations
• Griswold Family Vacations
• Pixie Honeymoons

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent – Complete Guide

• How do I become a Disney Travel Agent?

Ever since we started Pixie Vacations we get asked how to become a Disney Travel Agent?  So we created this Disney Travel agent complete guide to help you out and hopefully give you a good understanding what it takes to sell Disney vacations.

First I want to start by saying you are not technically a “Disney Travel Agent”  you would be a Travel Planner that specializes in Disney vacations and you would be working for a travel agency.  If you are looking to work for the Disney Company at their Central Reservations (CRO) this is a different job altogether.

• What we are going to cover
• What is a Disney Travel Agent AKA Travel Planner that specializes in Disney destinations?
• How do I become a travel agent that sells Disney vacations?
• What to look out for and what questions to ask to be a travel agent.
• We will cover the skills you should have to sell travel.
• We will get in-depth into some marketing tips, and also cover frequently asked questions about becoming a Disney travel agent.
• What legal pitfalls to avoid and helpful links to do your homework before becoming a travel agent.
• What is a Disney Travel Agent?

In most cases you will need to find and apply at a travel agency.  We will go over what to look for in a travel agency later in this article, so don’t worry.  Also in most cases you will be selling Disney Destinations as an independent contractor and your “Title” will be a travel agent that specializes in Disney vacations, not “A Disney Travel Agent” because you are NOT working for the Walt Disney Company.

To find travel agency’s just do a google search on: “How to become a Disney Travel Agent”,  “Be a Disney Travel Planner”, “How to sell Disney vacations”, and search terms like this.

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s get into what to look for in a Travel Agency.

• FirstHeading

How to pick a Travel Agency

What are the advantages to being a travel agent that sells disney vacations, what other advantages are there for disney travel agents, disney travel agent (dta) training, which disney focused travel agency should i work with, commissions and commission splits, when do you get paid, red flags and scams, support systems at the travel agency, what skills do you need, seller of travel licenses and legal questions.

• It's awesome to be a Disney Vacation Planner

Join Pixie Vacations

Your personal information.

• What Social Media accounts do you have?Facebook URL Instagram URL YouTube or TikTok URL Previous Experience

More About You

Doing your research is key.  There are loads of travel agencies that have travel planners that work as contractors offering Disney Vacations and it can be overwhelming.  Start with the owners of the travel agency.  Do some basic research on each travel agency.

• Does the travel agency have a professional looking website?
• Can you find the owners name, address, phone number and email on their website?
• Does the owner answer the phone or call you back?

I know this sounds really basic but you can tell a great deal from the travel agencies website.  If you can’t call the travel agency this is a red flag.  If you can’t speak with them then how are clients supposed to speak with them if there is a problem?  You should be able to talk with someone, that’s what your clients will expect and you should expect.

Who are the owners?  What is there experience in travel and with the Disney Company?

Does the travel agency have travel agents already?  If so email a few and ask them how they like the travel agency, how long have they been there?

We will get into more ways to determine which travel agency is a right fit for you indirectly in some of the following topics below.  Let’s move on.

You might hear that you get to travel for free.  You get to stay at Walt Disney World and Disneyland hotels for Free.  Not exactly.  There are Disney travel agent benefits but if you want to be a travel agent just for the benefits this is not the job for you.  The Disney travel benefits should be looked at as extras you earn for becoming a successful agent that sells Disney travel destinations.

There are travel agencies out there that will ask you to pay them a fee $300 – $500 to join them and in return they will let you get a CLIA ID card or access to the Disney booking site.  This is not how you should become a travel agent in our opinion.  This should be a job, not something you do for a CLIA card.

Let me step back a little.  To get travel agency benefits like discounts on a hotel room you need either a CLIA or IATA Agent ID.  To get a CLIA Agent ID card this is what you need according to CLIA’s website:

CLIA card requirements

To qualify for CLIA Individual Agent Membership (IAM), your affiliated agency must be a current CLIA Travel Agency Member. CLIA recommends that agents generate a minimum of $5,000 in total agency commissions from cruise bookings within the 12 months prior to enrollment.

So to obtain this card they recommend that you have sold $5,000 in COMMISSIONS in your PRIOR 12 months in CRUISE bookings.  IATA has similar requirements but they don’t just focus on cruise bookings.

You will need your CLIA or IATA Agent ID card to be able to register for travel discounts.

Also you need to meet your travel agencies requirements and also the vendors requirements to be able to get the travel deal.  So there are many layers to being able to save a little on a room.

Again, don’t focus on the travel discounts, they are not worth it.  You need to focus on selling vacations and offering exceptional service to clients and help them plan their most amazing vacation ever.  If you do that your sales will come and you will be on your way to being able to apply for a CLIA or IATA agent ID card.

Work at home .  Most positions are as independent contractors (IC) and you can work your own hours and work from home.  Like any job the amount of time and effort you put in will help determine how well you do.

Money / Commission.   You will get paid a commission in most travel agency positions as an IC.  So when someone books a vacation with you, you will get a percentage of the commission.  We will go over travel agent commissions in more detail in this article.

Travel.   Depending on the travel agency you sign up with, you might be offered training trips or FAMS.  These are Familiarization trips that travel vendors and travel agencies do to show you resorts, on-site training, excursions, etc.  These FAM trips can be free or offered at a discounted cost and usually for the FAM cost you will get a room, training, and some meals covered.  Getting to the FAM is normally not covered so you would pay for your flights.  For Example a Universal Studios Orlando FAM can cost around $300-$400 for the FAM fee.  This of course varies so don’t quote us on these costs.

FAM Trips – Also depending on the agency you work for could determine if you get invited to a FAM trip.  If you want to learn more about Sandals and Beaches Resorts and your agency does not sell that much of those properties you might have a harder time getting onto a FAM trip with that vendor for example.  Travel vendors are not looking for people that want a discounted vacation, they are looking for travel agents that truly want to learn and sell their destination.

When you join a travel agency they will get you a Disney Travel Agent (DTA) account.  This is where you take the Disney College of Knowledge Classes, book Disney vacations, read Disney News, and this is your central hub for Disney Marketing pieces too.

The Disney College of Knowledge is free.  You should not be paying a travel agency for access to DTA.  The College of Knowledge has online classes that will get you up to speed on all the Disney destinations and offerings.  Here is the link to Disney Travel Agents .

You need to complete all of these Disney College of Knowledge online classes to be able to take advantage of travel agent Disney offers, like a free admission ticket to the parks.  Don’t worry the online Disney training is not difficult.  You will watch the training section videos of Disneyland, Disney World, Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Line, etc and take an online quiz at the end of each section.

You could complete all the Disney College of Knowledge classes in a day if you set yourself down and just go from beginning to end.  It would be better if you dedicated at least a few days to complete the Disney College of Knowledge training classes.  Other Family vacation destinations like Universal Orlando Resort also have online training .

There are many things to look at before selecting a Travel Agency that specializes in Disney Vacations.

• Does your travel agency sell other things besides Disney? If not will you be losing business when your client wants to go on a Royal Caribbean cruise, to an all inclusive resort, book a honeymoon, etc. and will your client come back to you and remember you 5 years later if they want to go to Disney again?

Here is the Earmarked logo for reference

• Is your Travel agency an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner or also known as EarMarked? An EarMarked Travel Agency has passed standards Disney requires to offer them this special designation.  If the travel agency does not have this logo on their website, then they are most likely not Earmarked.To determine if the travel agency is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can go to this website:  http://www.authorizeddisneyvacationplanners.com/   This will not tell you what level they are in the EarMarked program but it will at least tell you if they are Earmarked by Disney.  The agencies are listed in random order and you will have to reload the page several times to see them all.

Every travel agency starts someplace to become an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner so figure out if you want to start with a newer agency that is not Earmarked or an agency that  has already moved up the different status levels.  Every agency at one point was not Earmarked, so understand that you should not solely make your decision on picking a travel agency based on this EarMarked status.

You need to also know that just because a travel agent is EarMarked does not mean it is a good agency.  So do some research and contact other agents at that travel agency that have been there for several years and ask them how they like the travel agency, do they get paid on time, what support do they get, etc.

The reason you wanted to become a Disney travel agent should be to get paid.  Yes it can be fun and rewarding, but it takes long hours and at the end of the day you should get paid for your work.

Every Disney Specialized Travel Agency pays differently but most pay you commission.  You would not be an employee in this example, but an independent contractor that gets paid when you book a vacation for a client.

Travel vendors, like Disney, give Travel agents a commission.  This is NOT an extra cost added to a vacation.  It’s sort of like a finders fee.  When you book a Walt Disney World Vacation Package you get a commission for that booking.  If you search the web you can figure out what commission levels are for different vendors.  But for this example lets say you contact someone you know and they book a Walt Disney World Vacation Package with a room, park tickets, and the Disney dining plan staying on property at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort.  The cost of the Disney Vacation let’s say is $4,000.

Disney will pay a percentage of the $4,000 to the agency as a commission. So let’s say for this example that the commission earned is $400 to make for easy math that would be 10%.  Once the party travels Disney will send the $400 commission to the Travel Agency.  After the travel agency gets the commission check they will send you a percentage of that commission.  What you get depends on the travel agency you work for and what they pay their travel planners.  Some travel agency’s pay 40%, some pay only on certain types of bookings, some pay a flat fee of $25 – $50 per booking no matter what is booked.  The majority of travel agencies pay 50% to 90% commission.   So  in our example the Disney vacation of $4,000 has a 10% commission that is a $400.  If the agency gives you a 50% commission split then you would get $200 and the agency would get $200.  This is just an example with made up numbers and percentages, but it should give you an idea how commissions with vendors and agencies work.

The more you sell with some travel agencies the higher commission levels you reach. So you might start at 40% commission and then go to 50% and then to 60% and so on based on your sales numbers with the travel agency.

This is also how travel vendors operate like Cruise Line Vendors for Example.

If you work for a small or new travel agency a Cruise Line vendor might be paying 10% commission to that agency.  As the agency sells more Cruise Line vacations the agencies commission level can go up to 15%, 16%, for example.

So your commission split that you get from your travel agency is important as well as the commission levels that travel agency gets from it’s vendors.

Simple Commission Split example:

Agency A – Gets 16% Cruise Line Commission $5,000 Cruise x 16% = $800.00 commission

Agency B – Gets 10% Cruise Line Commission $5,000 Cruise x 10% = $500.00 commission

You are making $300 more for just this one booking in this example so do your homework when you select a travel agency to work with.

Also equally important is what commission level you are getting from the travel agency.  Are they starting you at 40% or higher?  What commission goal levels do they have?

You will get paid AFTER the guest travels.  If you book a 2024 vacation and that’s years away, you are not seeing any of that money until that guest gets back from there 2024 vacation.  If the guest cancels you don’t get paid.

You will need a ramp up period to build a client base and then to book those clients every year and word of mouth referrals to grow.  This takes time and then you have to wait for those clients to travel.  So don’t plan on being a Disney travel agent and quickly quitting your day job, unless you really work non-stop and have an outgoing personality and sales background.

This is called the Complete Guide to becoming a Disney travel agent because we want to make sure you have the best and complete information to make an educated decision.  This section is not to scare you, but to make you aware of what could happen and how to be on the look out for scams.

First, when you got your first job did they ask you to pay them $1,000 to work for them.  No!  If someone is asking you to PAY THEM to Work for THEM that is something that should make you think twice.  Now I understand that travel agencies have costs to cover and even we charge a small fee to join because we have to pay for training systems, and other onboarding expenses.  So $100- $200 to get set up can be expected to invest in starting out.

Why can scams happen – Because you don’t get paid until after the client travels this has led some people to setup and run travel agencies as a way to rip you off.  Maybe they first created a small travel agency for fun and it just got out of hand, or maybe they have a background in doing this scam over and over again.  This is again why you need to do your homework when looking for a travel agency to join.  You can avoid a travel agency that is not going to pay you simply by contacting several of the agents that work there.  Contact agents that have been at the agency for several years (4-5 years min.) so you know they have a track record of payments and know whats going on at the agency.  If the agents are all new it’s hard to tell if agents have left because of issues with getting paid or if the agency is just getting started.

Disney pays Travel Agencies.  If you are working at a Travel Agency and not getting paid and are constantly told they are waiting for Disney to pay them, this is most likely not true.  You can contact Disney yourself and give them your booking number to see if it has been paid.

How the Scam works.  You join the travel agency and sell $200,000 in vacations but most of the people don’t really travel until 8 months or a year from now.  The travel agency also that you work for says they have 90 days to pay you.  So there is this long time line that the travel agency can have you booking vacations for them and not pay you.  When these vacations do travel and you still don’t get paid, you might be told that the vendor has not paid the travel agency yet, etc.  So now you might be owned $20k in commissions and another $20k in future not traveled commissions before you realize that the travel agency has no intention of paying you.

You can avoid all this by doing some research and not just signing up with any travel agency you come across.  Again this type of scam is also rare and just something you should be aware of.

Money and commission levels are important but a good support system is also just as important.

Look for a travel agency that has a focus on Disney and Family Vacations.

Do they have training?

Look for a travel agency that offers FAM (Travel agent training trips).  How many do they offer, when was the last one, and how much was it?

What is the owners background and what support do they offer?

Does the travel agency offer Leads?  Does the travel agency do marketing to get exposure for their agents and to get leads?

Does the travel agency have an account rep. at the different vendors you  are going to use that you can call if you have an issue?

What support is there when you need it?

What is the agency owners background?

More established travel agency’s will have a dedicated rep. at each vendor to help if there is an issue.  You might also have a special phone line you can call to book with certain vendors if your agency is one of their preferred agencies.  This could cut down wait times when you are trying to book a vacation for a client.  Having account reps. also helps tremendously when you have a client at a property and they have an issue.

Does your travel agency have conference calls, webinars with vendors, and other ways to learn and share knowledge?

These are all things you should look for and consider when deciding on a travel agency.

To be successful as a Disney travel agent you need good communication skills.  You will need to put in the hours to learn the Disney Destinations, like Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and Adventures by Disney.  You also need to be more than just a big Disney fan.  This is a job and requires time to build up clients, keep clients, learn vacation destinations, and time to book and help your clients.  It will take time to get things going and being persistent is key.

You will be communicating with Disney and clients via email and on the internet, so an internet connection and a computer is needed.  A phone number / cell phone is needed and we would recommend a dedicated phone number so you can answer your phone professionally.  You can get a Google Number or other services offer free phone numbers so you can keep your existing cellphone and just change the ring tone.

You should be a people person.  Someone that can take little direction and just run with it.  You need to be comfortable talking with people.

You really should be a salesperson at heart and just decide to sell Disney vacations instead of another product.  If you can’t SELL this job will be difficult for you.  If you know and love Disney, that’s great, but you need to run this like a business and be able to sell the Disney destinations, organize client bookings, plan marketing and social media posts, attend local events and get out in your community or virtual community.

If you are the go to person at your church, school, business, or other clubs / events, you will have a base of customers to plan vacations for.

Technology skills are also helpful.  Posting on social media, marketing, emailing, etc all play into you being successful as a Disney travel planner.

Another Heads up section that is not so much fun to talk about but needs to be covered so you are aware.

I am not a lawyer so I would recommend you contact a travel lawyer, but here is how I understand the Seller of Travel Licenses requirements for Florida and California.

To sell travel your travel agency is required to have a sellers of travel license in certain states.  For example you should see Florida Sellers of Travel Ref No STXXXXX at the bottom of the travel agencies website and also CST XXXXXXXX for California’s Seller of Travel Licenses.  If you don’t see these on their website that travel agency can not market anyplace that a FL or CA resident might see a vacation offer.

With the Internet a consumer in FL and CA can see a travel offer anyplace.  So then it seems to reason the every travel agency needs to have this license.

If a resident from Florida or California sees a post, website, Facebook post or anything offering travel services, vacations, deals, that agency can be fined or worse.  If you as an independent contractor sell travel to anyone in these states you might come across issues.

How can you determine if the travel agency is registered in California?  Here is the CA Sellers of Travel Website Information:

“California requires all sellers of travel to register with the Attorney General’s Office and to display the registration number on all advertising. While not assuring that a company is reputable, a valid registration signals that the seller of travel has at least followed the law to be registered.”

Read more at the California Seller of Travel Website.

Check to make sure the travel agency has a CA Seller of Travel Licenses here.

From the CA Sellers of Travel Website:

“When you’re at a travel agency, ask to see the seller of travel’s registration acknowledgement — a one-page document issued by the Attorney General’s Seller of Travel Program. Be sure to check the expiration date to determine whether the registration is still valid.

You also may use the “ Seller Search ” feature on this website to assist you in determining whether a seller of travel is registered with our office. Since there are many similar seller of travel names, please spell out the full name and address of the company.”

From the Florida Sellers of Travel Website:

https://www.freshfromflorida.com/Business-Services/Sellers-of-Travel

“The sellers of travel law requires any person or business that is a seller or promoter of travel-related services to register annually with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), unless exempt. Sellers of travel are required to provide proof of assurance in the form of a performance bond, in an amount not to exceed $25,000, or $50,000 if they sell vacation certificates.

FDACS is authorized to collect registration fees and impose penalties for noncompliance of the law.”

Check to make sure the travel agency has their FL Seller of Travel License here.

Also you should make sure your travel agency has E&O Insurance.  This is Errors and Omissions Insurance.  They should be able to show you the current years binder page.

It’s awesome to be a Disney Vacation Planner

There is so much information here and some of it can be daunting, but being a travel agent that specialists in Disney vacations is also so much fun.  Yes it is work, but it can be rewarding planning vacations to the most magical place on earth.

If you would like to apply at Pixie Vacations please fill out our application form.

Application form Pixie Vacations

Step 1 of 3

What Social Media accounts do you have?

Previous experience.

Are there Disney classes for non-agents? I’ve been an agent in the past, however not a strictly Disney agent. I’m having a hard time trying g to get an agent position but would love to take classes.

Hi, The DTA classes are just for travel agents.

i would like to apply to be a travel agent

Hi, Christine,

Please write to [email protected] and be sure to include information about your qualifications, sales experience, networking or how you would generate vacation sales, etc. Thanks.

I have already completed the Disney training but would love to work with Disney vacations I am certified in cruises but really want Disney exclusively

Hi, Tammy, Please fill out the form enclosed if you have not already. Have an awesome day! 🙂

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• how to become a disney travel agent – CAREER KEG - […] Before we take on new independent contractor travel agents AKA Disney Travel Agents, we would like you to know…
• Are Disney travel agents worth it? - Verb Functions - […] Is it worth it to be a Disney travel agent? […]

We are Authorized Disney Vacation Planners and we know how to save you time and money on your Disney vacation. Check our latest Disney Discounts to book the most magical Disney vacation ever.

Our concierge-level of service is free when you book your vacation with Pixie Vacations. Call us today for a free, no obligation quote.

Pixie Vacations ® Phone: 678-815-1584

Why Book with Pixie Vacations?

Here is why you should always book with a Pixie!

Join Over 102,000 Subscribers

We love our guests, disney news.

• Adventures by Disney Escapes
• How To Become A Sandals Travel Agent
• Disney Monorail Hotels
• Beaches Negril Review and Rating
• Best Hollywood Studios Rides for Your Disney World Vacation

Disney Insider TIPS

Get the latest Insider TIP to help plan your vacation:

Shortcuts & Time-Saving Paths at Walt Disney World

Disney Insider Guide to Pandora

Search Travel Market Report

• Packaged Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Destinations
• Retail Strategies
• Niche & Luxury
• Training & Resources
• Brian Israel
• Briana Bonfiglio
• Dan McCarthy
• Dori Saltzman
• Jennifer Arango
• Kelly Fontenelle
• Keri-Anne Slevin
• Louis Intreglia
• Sarah Milner
• Tom McCarthy

Walt Disney World Releases 2021 Travel Agent Appreciation Program

Walt Disney World is giving travel advisors opportunity to experience the resort this year with new Walt Disney World Travel Agency Appreciation Program offers.

Qualified travel advisors who have completed the College of Disney Knowledge training can receive one discounted park ticket, from 1 to 10 days.

Special travel agent rates are for also now available for 2021 reservations. They are valid the advisor and members of their immediate family sharing the same room for no more than seven nights.

The company said it "value[s] you and the work you’ve done" to help your clients continue to plan Walt Disney World vacations throughout this unprecedented time.

2022 packages Looking ahead into next year, vacation packages and tickets are now available to book for 2022 at Walt Disney World.

There are some resort hotels that are not currently scheduled for reopening yet. Disney Dining packages remain unavailable at this time. In addition, Walt Disney World is ending Magical Express in 2022.

Walt Disney World will begin Early Theme Park Entry, a new perk that will allow Walt Disney World resort guests to enter any of the four theme parks 30 minutes early each day. This is the permanent replacement for Extra Magic Hours

MOST VIEWED

• Four Spots Onboard the All-New Sun Princess We’re Not in Love With
• Delta Air Lines Is Changing the Way It Boards Flights
• Testing the Waters with Dori: The NCL Stranded Passenger "Fiasco"
• Op-Ed: Why I Won’t Use Costco for Travel Again
• Margaritaville at Sea Offers Advisor-Only Pricing
• Lufthansa Strike Update for Monday
• Here's What Each River Cruise Line Includes
• Taiwan Earthquake Update: Train Services Resume, Flights Operating Near Schedule
• Amex GBT Agrees to Acquire Carlson Wagonlit Travel for $570 Million
• Chargebacks: The Scourge of the Travel Advisor Business
• Major Cruise Changes Could Come After Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses
• Horseshoe’s Jubilee Tower Becomes the Versailles Tower at Paris Las Vegas

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage, analysis of industry news, trends and issues that affect how you do business. Subscribe now for free.

Subscribe to TMR

The Jamaica Tourist Board’s presentation highlighted innovation and excitement.

The Level 2 advisory warns travelers about civil unrest, crime, and kidnapping. 

The all-inclusive resort is Playa’s first Wyndham Alltra resort in the Dominican Republic.

This may be the first instance of a Las Vegas casino-resort tower being transferred between two properties. 

Canada’s PHAC also released a statement addressing increased measles activity.

Travel advisors who complete The Palm Beaches certification can win a two-night stay.

• How It Works
• Our Guarantee
• Media Resources
• News & Articles
• Travel Tips for Your Next Trip
• Why You Should Use a Travel Advisor
• Where Should I Go On Vacation?
• The Best Time to Travel to Popular Caribbean Islands
• Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to the Caribbean
• Dining in the Caribbean: Your Questions Answered
• The Perfect Honeymoon Destinations for Every Month of the Year
• The InteleTravel Guide to Planning a Cruise
• Advisor Benefits
• Become an Advisor
• Request a Travel Advisor
• Group Getaways

October 05, 2018

3 minute read

Benefits of Booking Your Disney Vacation With a Certified Disney Travel Agent

Making it to   The Most Magical Place on Earth   can be a little stressful. Between piecing together the tiniest details and trying to figure out the various deadlines, planning the perfect Disney vacation is no easy task.

Ever try to blindly make a reservation at Cinderella's Royal Table, just to find out that they're the hardest reservations to get , and need to be snagged at least six months in advance ?

A certified Disney Travel Agent would have known that.

How They're Certified

Certified Disney Travel Agents are the real deal, and having one on your side will not only relieve tons of pressure from attempting to understand the ins and outs of Disney on your own, but they're also some of the most knowledgeable agents in the world when it comes to their specialty — and that's because of the College of Disney Knowledge.

An intense program only available to current travel agents, the College of Disney Knowledge (CDK) takes students through every aspect of ensuring their client's vacation is a resounding success.

Agents enrolled in the CDK are passionate about Disney and eager to learn more about the brand. They take advanced courses, and recertify each year.

Certified Disney Travel Agents learn everything from hotels to resorts to the Disney cruises, dining, rides, parks, and much, much more!

Why a Certified Disney Travel Agent Will Benefit You

Sure, some seasoned park-goers will know how to book their vacations, but for those looking to take their first trip, or even just have a more organized experience, using a certified agent will make all the difference .

Personalized Service

If you book your Disney vacation on your own, you'll be talking to a different person each time you call to discuss specific aspects of your trip.

The opposite happens when you book with a Disney agent. You'll have one individual on your side, and they're the one calling up Disney on your behalf. You'll never have to spends hours on hold waiting for the next Cast Member, and instead, you'll have someone who knows your wishes intimately, and can help build you and your family your dream Disney vacation.

Intimate Knowledge of Parks & Packages

Graduating from the CDK has left your agent in the perfect position to relay all kinds of park and package information to you. Disney sends certified agents the most updated refurbishment and closings lists, so they'll know any attractions or resorts that may not be available at the time of your vacation.

Dining Reservations

There are so many different factors that go into dining reservations. First off, if you're looking for character experiences, those restaurants open for reservations 180 days in advance — that means seven months of advanced planning is the average for a park-goer.

You'll also want to know the various dining plans, credits, refurbishment lists — all things your agent will be able to help you with, whether that means simply giving you expert advice, or actually booking the reservation for you. Whew.

FastPass+ Assistance

Because there's a tiered system in Epcot and Hollywood Studios, the FastPass+ system can be confusing at first. A Disney agent can assist in the FastPass+ process by explaining exactly what it is, and booking them for you.

Discounts & Promotions

Disney releases many travel discounts throughout the year, and a Disney agent will always be on top of that. Some of the most popular discounts include:

• Free Dining Offer: typically offered during September, November & December
• Room-Only Discounts: up to 25% off
• Play, Stay, Dine & Save Discount: offered in the Spring

A certified Disney Agent helps ensure a vacation The Most Magical Place on Earth is exactly that:  magical , from beginning to end.

Where would you like to travel?

Select your destination, and we'll pair you with an inteletravel advisor based on your travel needs., north america, south america, asia & south pacific, leave a comment, never miss an update.

Subscribe to the InteleTravel blog to receive the latest travel news and updates

April 22, 2024

Tips for Sustainable Travel

April 11, 2024

How Much Does a Travel Advisor Cost?

January 25, 2024

How to Plan an African Safari

Your dream vacation is just a few clicks away..

© Copyright 2024 InteleTravel.com. All rights reserved. Registered Seller of Travel Privacy Terms of Use Accessibility

Please Note: The translation of this website is accomplished through automated tools. It is necessarily imperfect, and we realize the technology makes some word choices which are incorrect. Please pardon us while we grow and improve in your market.

Student Login

Travel Agent Discounts: Disney Edition

Jun 8, 2023 | Launch a travel business , Aspiring travel agents , Grow a travel business , Operations , Travel Business

Most obvious statement ever: Travelers around the world love Disney in all its many locations and varieties. There’s just something about Disney – call it Disney Magic – that excites people like nothing else in travel. 🏰 🐭

Disney travel is honestly very easy to sell. If you know your stuff as a travel agent, people will be knocking down your 🚪 door for you to help them have the Disney experience of a lifetime.

In order to become a go-to travel agent for Disney vacations, you’re going to need to learn everything you can about what Disney has to offer. Take some research trips to all the 🎢 parks, set sail on some 🚢 cruises, and all that sort of thing. It’s a tough job, but somebody’s gotta do it!

The one thing Disney is not, though, is cheap. 💰 I don’t think it’s overpriced, especially considering the top-of-the-line experiences and service you get, but it can still be a drain on the pocketbook. Fortunately, if you’re a travel agent who sells Disney vacations, you have a secret weapon up your sleeve: exclusive discounts that only you can access.

In my new 📽️ video, “Travel Agent Discounts: Disney Edition,” I break down just what sort of travel agent discounts you can get for Disney experiences, as well as what you have to do to get them. Prepare to be amazed!

Click here to watch on YouTube!

You can’t just call up Disney’s head office and say, “I’m a travel agent, please send me my discounts.” These discounts are exclusive to actual working, credentialled, trained Disney travel agents, and there are a few things you have to do to 🔓 unlock them. But if you follow the instructions I’ve given you in the video, then you’ll be on your way to some of the most exciting benefits you can get as a travel agent.

Pin for later!

Explore by category

Travel business, masterclass: put your love of travel to work for you, read the latest posts.

How to Become a Travel Agent That Specializes in Disney

Turn your love for Disney into a profitable venture. From setting up your business entity to obtaining credentials and registering with Disney, we’ll show you how to get started as an independent Disney travel agent. Originally posted September 2020, updated April...

5 Tips to Deal with a Crisis as a Travel Agent

Discover essential strategies for travel crisis management in this insightful blog post. Learn how to stay calm, informed, and proactive during turbulent times to effectively serve your clients and safeguard your business. Gain valuable tips on client education,...

Demystifying Travel Agent Commissions: How Much Can You Really Make?

Whether you're considering a career in the travel industry or seeking to maximize your earnings as an agent, we’re uncovering the potential income opportunities for travel agents while also providing practical tips for navigating a commission-based model effectively....

Grab the free toolkit: Top 10 Tools for Travel Agents

So many travel agents struggle to grow their businesses because they don’t have the right tools in their toolbox. 🙁

That’s why we put together Cyndi’s Top 10 Tools for Travel Agents – to give you the tools you need to grow your client base and business!

Inside, you’ll find:

💰 Valuable marketing content 👀 Helpful YouTube videos 🎨 Design resources 🎧 Podcast episodes 💸 Discounts and coupons ⭐ …and SO much additional gold to help you grow your business!

You’re going to love it!

JOIN THE FREE MASTERCLASS

Wondering if becoming a travel agent is right for you .

Our travel agent trainings and certifications have helped thousands of people successfully transition into making travel their new way of life. Grab a spot in our masterclass and learn the simple systems our clients use to create wildly successful travel businesses in record time.

• Search forums
• Disney Trip Planning Forums
• Disney Resorts
• Disney Discount Codes and Rates

Travel Agent Discount

• Thread starter Martindis2006
• Start date Aug 24, 2008

Martindis2006

Mouseketeer.

• Aug 24, 2008

I am not a travel agent but a friend of mine is convinced that she can get a discount on her accomodations since she is a travel agent. Does anyone know if this true.  

DIS Veteran

TA's can get a discount on room only reservations if available ( but are treated as a package meaning has to be paid in full 45 days prior to arrival) also must send in with in certain time period a fax verifying TA status ( IATA , CLIA , IATAN card ) they can book through Disney TA site  

they have to book it on disneytravelagents.com and verify their iata/clia number, etc. Its room only and it is a package just like mousefan stated  

JandT'smom

You must also present your IATA , CLIA , IATAN card at check in.  

Bethpremier

Kidanites unite.

• Dec 9, 2009

Does anyone know the limit of rooms you area allowed to book if you are a travel agent ?  

• Dec 10, 2009

Travel agent must also occupy the room and the TA credentials are subject to verification.  

Bethpremier said: Does anyone know the limit of rooms you area allowed to book if you are a travel agent? Click to expand...

Responding to MarcielM's post: Depends on how the TA books the room. A travel agency /agent can pull a room block and negotiate a contract rate with Disney on rooms. There is a well known agency often mentioned on these boards who pulls rooms in this manner and in effect becomes a "wholesaler" of hotel rooms. Rooms which have been negotiated by contract are room-only reservations and may not have the dining plan added. Sometimes there are also some pretty stiff penalties when booking with a room block too so it is beneficial to read the fine print regarding changes after booking. Many agents/agencies do not do room blocks because of the contract issue and how payments need to be done on these particular rooms.  

glovergirls

Just curious. If you are a travel agent how much of a discount can you typiclly get on a single room? It just got me thinking of a new career. I am a stay at home mom.  

Oh, and I forgot to add: if a TA pulls a group with a contract this is at a negotiated rate with Disney, and not a TA rate. A TA rate is a single reservation and the terms are posted on Disney's TA web site.  

LindyN said: Responding to MarcielM's post: Depends on how the TA books the room. A travel agency /agent can pull a room block and negotiate a contract rate with Disney on rooms. There is a well known agency often mentioned on these boards who pulls rooms in this manner and in effect becomes a "wholesaler" of hotel rooms. Rooms which have been negotiated by contract are room-only reservations and may not have the dining plan added. Sometimes there are also some pretty stiff penalties when booking with a room block too so it is beneficial to read the fine print regarding changes after booking. Many agents/agencies do not do room blocks because of the contract issue and how payments need to be done on these particular rooms. Click to expand...

glovergirls said: Just curious. If you are a travel agent how much of a discount can you typiclly get on a single room? It just got me thinking of a new career. I am a stay at home mom. Click to expand...

marcielm said: Yeah, that's what I was trying to say. I looked at booking a block of rooms to get a discount in March... but the rate I was quoted for 10 rooms wasn't half as good as what a PIN or GP discount code could've gotten my guests. Maybe if I had done 100 rooms.... Click to expand...

LindyN said: Exactly. A GP or PIN rate is going to be better and those contract terms are not as guest friendly. Click to expand...

<font color=red>My Mommy told me I look pretty all

tone.def said: is an education not required anymore? it's like people buying a Mac, pirating software and calling themselves editors and filmmakers. Click to expand...

Shall we play a game?

Great info marcielm. To glovergirls - it also depends on where you live. I'm sure some of the requirements vary from state to state. I can't speak for the US, but if you are an Ontario resident, you need to bide TICO law to sell travel. Starting with taking (and passing) the Education Standards exam. http://www.citc.ca/tico/en/train-tico-intro-e.asp My aunt works for TICO (Travel Industry Council of Ontario), who governs all people selling travel in Ontario, BC and Quebec. There are hefty fines and jail time for those who are caught selling travel and not abiding by TICO law.  

Earning My Ears

• Sep 22, 2014

Does any one know if you can get park tickets discounted with your IATA card?  

jhibdon said: Does any one know if you can get park tickets discounted with your IATA card? Click to expand...

tinka-belle

• Sep 26, 2014

Although the education requirements for US agents are low, various travel suppliers, of which Disney is one, have their own rules and requirements before granting any discounts. Disney requires agent education (done online), and that the agency books Disney trips in the course of their business (in other words, has produced revenue for Mickey!). Disney reviews the produced revenue when granting the discounts, don't know what amount levels they use though. Discounted rooms or tickets must be applied for through the agency in advance, some resorts are limited at different times. When a resort discount is available it's 50% for up to 7 nights once per year. Also, just a one time annual ticket discount for ONE ticket just for the agent, 50% off, but cannot be non-expiring and MUST include hopper and waterpark fun & more options, so if you want a basic pass only it's really a savings of less than the 50%. These tickets are picked up at the parks with an agent I.D. In lieu of the discounted ticket, an agent may choose a ONE DAY free park hopper with waterpark fun & more, so that would be just one free day per year.  

Share this page

Dis news & updates.

• New 'Smellephants on Parade' Arrive in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World
• First Listen of Tiana's Voice Coming from Tiana's Bayou Adventure
• Why This Disney Pro Still Books With Dreams Unlimited Travel
• Disneyland Resort Introduces Crown Collection to Elevate Your Vacation
• 5 Wildlife Species to See at Disney Cruise Line's Lookout Cay

New DISboards Threads

• 14 minutes ago
• Theme Parks Attractions and Strategies
• 27 minutes ago
• 33 minutes ago
• 37 minutes ago
• DVC Resorts

• 39 minutes ago
• Disney for Adults and Solo Travelers
• 53 minutes ago

• Walt Disney World News
• Walt Disney World Articles
• Disney Cruise Line News
• Disneyland News
• General Disney News

Latest posts

• Latest: patty57
• A moment ago

• Latest: gottalovepluto

• Latest: monsterkitty
• 1 minute ago
• Latest: LadybugsMum

• Latest: bobbiwoz
• 2 minutes ago

Please enable Javascript in your browser.

Do Travel Agents Get Discounts? A Travel Advisor Perks Guide

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a travel advisor (also known as a travel agent), you’re likely already a travel enthusiast . You’re probably drawn to the idea of helping others travel more, because you’ve experienced how incredible travel can be. Now, you want an opportunity that fulfills that wish and makes it easier for you to travel — both logistically and financially.

So, you’re probably asking yourself a few questions, like “Do travel agents get discounts?” and “Are there other benefits to becoming a travel advisor? 

What are the Perks of Being a Travel Agent ?

Some would say one important benefit of being a travel advisor is the work itself. You get to help arrange awesome family vacations, once-in-a-lifetime trips and friends’ dream vacations. You get paid to book travel — and that’s a fun way to earn money! Plus, there are extra perks in it for you, too. 

First: Do travel agents get discounts? Of course! When you become a part-time travel advisor with Dream Vacations, you get the unique opportunity to travel for a fraction of the normal cost. Travel agents often get discounts that help put exciting vacation experiences in reach., thanks to our close relationship with suppliers across the travel industry. 

Better yet, Dream Vacations travel advisors can access opportunities to travel for free. Familiarization trips (or “FAM” trips), offer travel advisors the opportunity to explore a particular travel product. You’ll gain firsthand experience with the cruises, resorts, or tours that you’re helping others plan to explore – perhaps the best possible way to gain critical vacation knowledge! If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a vacation into a business trip , this might be your answer! 

How to Work Remotely and Travel

Speaking of combining business and pleasure, the ability to work remotely and travel is another huge perk of becoming a Dream Vacations travel advisor. You get to do what you already love to do — travel — and you can bring your work anywhere in the world. 

When you become a Dream Vacations advisor, your ability to earn income becomes extremely mobile. You can sell Cancun resort stays from a beach in Hawaii or plan a client’s honeymoon cruise from a cabin in the Colorado mountains. 

While you’re traveling, you can work for a couple hours in the morning, then do as you please in the afternoon (or vice versa). Since you’re your own boss as a travel advisor, your schedule is all up to you, and depending on your financial or lifestyle goals, you can work as much or as little as you want. 

If you plan to work while traveling, all you need is a laptop or smartphone and access to the internet. If you plan to work while on a trip, it’s also helpful to bring along things you’d use in your home office, like an external mouse or noise-canceling headphones. 

Earn Travel Agent Perks By Joining Dream Vacations

If you’ve ever wondered, “Do travel agents get discounts?” the answer is yes! Plus, it might be time to think even bigger — because many other perks are available in this career.  When you become a travel advisor with Dream Vacations, you get access to discounts, travel opportunities, supplemental income and the flexibility of remote work. Watch our free webinar or contact our team to learn more about how to make the jump to this exciting lifestyle!

Share this post

How To Become A Disney Travel Agent

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2024

If you are wondering how to become a Disney travel agent, this post is for you! Guest post by Heather of WDW Travels . 

If you’re a Disney fan, have you ever considered becoming a travel agent? It’s not as hard as you might think!

This article will answer all your questions and give you tips on how to become a Disney travel agent from someone who was one.

If you love planning Disney vacations for your friends and family, then this might be the perfect job for you.

How do you become an independent Disney travel agent? 

The first thing that you need to do is figure out what travel agency you want to work for.

You can do a Google search for “Disney Travel Agencies” to get started.  I also suggest you do research and talk to people.

Contact a few agencies and see what their commission structure looks like and also find out what their yearly fees are.

I jumped on the first agency that responded to me and in the long run, I should have done more research! 

In particular, look for agencies that are “EarMarked”, or designated as Authorized Disney Vacation Planners.

Here’s the logo to look for on the agency’s site: 

Once you have found the right agency you will sign a year long contract and agreement and pay your fees for the year.

The fees go towards software the agency needs and other licenses.

When I started the fees were about $250 for the year.

Once you are set up with the agency you then will need to complete the Disney College of Knowledge.

This is an online course where you will learn about everything Disney travel. There are separate sections for Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruiseline and Adventures by Disney.

Once you get your certificate at the end, you can then start booking trips for clients!

How do Disney Travel Agents get paid?

Disney travel agents get a commission based on the amount of the travel package that they book.

The agency gets the money directly from Disney and then the agency will give the individual agent who booked the trip their commission.

With most travel agencies the travel agents work solely on commission, and they do not receive their money until after you have traveled on your trip.

How Much Do Disney Travel Agents Make Per Booking?

This can vary depending on what agency you work for. Like I said above, do your research.

Here is how my commission plan worked:

The agency received 10% gross commission directly from Disney. So if you book a $5000 trip, the agency gets $500.

The agent then has a commission split. Mine was 60/40 meaning that the agent would get $300 (60%) and the agency would keep $200 (40%).

Obviously the more that you book the more money you make! Some agencies will give you more of a split the more you book per year.

Something that you need to keep in mind is that you will not get paid until after the client travels to Disney.

So if you are booking a trip one year out, that means your commission is one year out.

What Are The Perks Of Being A Disney Travel Agent?

Being a Disney travel agent can be really a lot of fun.

If you love Disney and love planning trips then it could be a really great fit for you!

Depending on the Travel Agency that you work for, the “perks” can vary.

There are some agencies that have yearly meet ups with all of their agents at the parks to just have fun or as a trip for further training.

The agency that I worked for offered 100% net commission on my own travel once I had booked $5000 in trips for guests each year. 

Is It Cheaper To Book Through Disney Or A Travel Agent?

Believe it or not, it actually costs the exact same amount whether you book thru Disney directly or use a travel agent.

That’s because if you are using a travel agent, they are actually paid by Disney.

If you are looking online at package prices and find a great deal, your travel agent can find that same exact deal for you.

Sometimes they can even find deals that you didn’t know about. They can also be the ones to wait on the phone or online to get you the hard to get Dining reservations.

Does Disney Have Their Own Travel Agents?

Disney has cast members who work the phones to book the trips that people call into Disney to book, however they are not “travel agents” they are just Cast Members who work in that department.

Why Am I A Former Disney Travel Agent?

I learned a lot while I was a Disney travel agent and not just about Disney.

I learned that just because I loved Disney didn’t mean that I should just focus on being a travel agent.

There were a lot of factors in me not renewing my contract with the agency I was working for.

For me it was tough to have to wait until after the client took their trip to get the commission.

Also, personally, I didn’t feel supported by the agency, and finally the yearly fees nearly quadrupled after my first year and I just didn’t see the value in paying that amount of money for what I was getting in return.

And that’s where my blog, WDWTravels , was born. I chose to take my knowledge and love of Disney and start a blog to help people plan their Disney vacations.

Even though it didn’t work out for me as an agent I wouldn’t discourage anyone from trying it out, it may be a perfect fit for some.

About Heather

Ever since I was a little girl I’ve loved traveling to Disney World. As a former Disney Travel Agent I have planned trips for people from all over the world including close friends and family members. Let me help you plan your best trip yet to the most magical place on earth! Click here to visit Heather’s site. 

Global Travel

CYBER WEEK SALE: Get an EXTRA $25 Gift Card + a 8 Day / 7 Night Vacation. Expires 12/1!

2-FOR-1 MEMBERSHIP SALE! Buy any annual membership and get one. PLUS, get a a Mexico vacation. Offer expires this FRIDAY!

• 1-800-250-7912
• [email protected]

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve: Exclusive Travel Agent Discounts

Overview of walt disney world swan reserve.

Welcome to our blog, where we bring you the latest and most exciting travel destinations and opportunities. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the enchanting Walt Disney World Swan Reserve . Situated in the heart of the magical Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, this exclusive property offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends modern elegance with the enchantment and wonder of Disney. Boasting stunning architecture, impeccable service, and a prime location, this resort is a haven for travelers seeking the ultimate Disney experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure to the world of Disney, the Swan Reserve promises to exceed your expectations and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Importance of travel agent discounts

As a travel agent, you play a crucial role in guiding travelers to their dream destinations. Your expertise and knowledge are invaluable when it comes to curating unique and personalized vacations. At the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, your role becomes even more significant, as you have the opportunity to offer your clients exclusive discounts and benefits that will enhance their Disney experience.

Travel agent discounts at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve are not only a perk for you, but also a way to provide added value to your clients. By accessing these discounts, you can offer your clients a more affordable and accessible way to enjoy the magic of Disney. This not only strengthens your relationship with your clients but also showcases your dedication to providing exceptional service.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the benefits of the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve for travel agents, as well as explore how you can access these exclusive discounts. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the wonders that await you at this extraordinary destination!

Benefits of Walt Disney World Swan Reserve for Travel Agents

Travel agents who partner with Walt Disney World Swan Reserve enjoy a wide range of exclusive benefits that enhance their professional experience and provide added value to their clients. From exclusive discounts and offers to access to special events and training, the Swan Reserve is a haven for travel agents seeking to provide exceptional service to their clients.

Exclusive Discounts and Offers

One of the primary benefits of partnering with Walt Disney World Swan Reserve as a travel agent is the access to exclusive discounts and offers . These discounts are specifically tailored for travel agents, allowing them to book rooms at the Swan Reserve at a reduced rate. This not only enables agents to save money on their own accommodations but also empowers them to pass on these savings to their clients, making their services even more attractive. With these exclusive discounts, travel agents can offer their clients a truly memorable and affordable stay at one of Disney’s most prestigious resorts.

Enhanced Client Experience

When travel agents partner with Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, they gain the ability to provide their clients with an enhanced client experience . The Swan Reserve goes above and beyond to cater to the needs and desires of guests, ensuring that every aspect of their stay is exceptional. From luxurious accommodations to world-class amenities, the Swan Reserve sets the stage for a truly magical vacation. By offering their clients the opportunity to stay at this exclusive resort, travel agents can elevate their reputation and establish themselves as trusted advisors who go the extra mile to create unforgettable experiences.

Access to Special Events and Training

Another significant advantage of partnering with Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is the unique opportunity to participate in special events and training . The Swan Reserve hosts exclusive events specifically for travel agents, where they can network with industry professionals, gain insights into the latest trends and innovations, and expand their knowledge base. These events provide travel agents with invaluable resources and connections, enabling them to offer their clients the most up-to-date and relevant information. Additionally, the Swan Reserve offers specialized training programs that empower travel agents to become experts in Disney travel, ensuring they can provide the highest level of service to their clients.

In conclusion, travel agents who partner with Walt Disney World Swan Reserve gain access to a host of benefits that enhance their professional journey. From exclusive discounts and offers to an enhanced client experience and access to special events and training, the Swan Reserve equips travel agents with the tools they need to excel in their field. By taking advantage of these benefits, travel agents can elevate their services and provide their clients with truly exceptional and unforgettable Disney vacations.

How to Access Travel Agent Discounts at Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

To take advantage of the exciting travel agent discounts available at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, there are a few simple steps that travel agents need to follow. By following these steps, agents can unlock exclusive offers and provide their clients with an unparalleled experience at this one-of-a-kind resort.

Registering as a Travel Agent

The first step in accessing travel agent discounts at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is to register as a travel agent. This process is straightforward and ensures that agents can enjoy the many benefits and perks available to them. By registering, agents gain access to a world of opportunities and can begin making their clients’ dreams come true.

Partnering with Authorized Agencies

In addition to registering as a travel agent, another way to access travel agent discounts at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is by partnering with authorized agencies. These agencies have established relationships with the resort, allowing their agents to enjoy exclusive offers and discounts. By partnering with an authorized agency, agents can maximize their benefits and provide their clients with exceptional value.

Proof of Eligibility

To access the travel agent discounts at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, agents must provide proof of eligibility. This may include documentation such as a valid IATA or CLIA card, proof of employment with a registered travel agency, or other relevant credentials. By providing proof of eligibility, agents can ensure that they meet the criteria to access the exclusive discounts and offers available.

By following these simple steps, travel agents can unlock a world of travel agent discounts at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. Whether it’s registering as a travel agent, partnering with authorized agencies, or providing proof of eligibility, agents can enjoy the many benefits and perks that come with being a part of this extraordinary resort. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to provide your clients with an unforgettable experience. Start accessing those travel agent discounts and make their dreams come true today!

[disney’s animal kingdom lodge travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-animal-kingdom-lodge-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s saratoga springs resort & spa travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-saratoga-springs-resort–spa-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s port orleans resort – riverside travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-port-orleans-resort—riverside-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s all-star music resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-all-star-music-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s all-star movies resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-all-star-movies-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s coronado springs resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-coronado-springs-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s port orleans resort – french quarter travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-port-orleans-resort—french-quarter-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s all-star sports resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-all-star-sports-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s art of animation resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-art-of-animation-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s polynesian village resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-polynesian-village-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s beach club resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-beach-club-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s yacht club resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-yacht-club-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s old key west resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-old-key-west-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s boardwalk inn travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-boardwalk-inn-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s polynesian villas & bungalows travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-polynesian-villas–bungalows-travel-agent-discounts [bay lake tower at disney’s contemporary resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/bay-lake-tower-at-disneys-contemporary-resort-travel-agent-discounts [the villas at disney’s grand floridian resort & spa travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/the-villas-at-disneys-grand-floridian-resort–spa-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s animal kingdom villas – kidani village travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-animal-kingdom-villas—kidani-village-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s boardwalk villas travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-boardwalk-villas-travel-agent-discounts [the cabins at disney’s fort wilderness resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/the-cabins-at-disneys-fort-wilderness-resort-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s beach club villas travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-beach-club-villas-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s animal kingdom villas – jambo house travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-animal-kingdom-villas—jambo-house-travel-agent-discounts [boulder ridge villas at disney’s wilderness lodge travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/boulder-ridge-villas-at-disneys-wilderness-lodge-travel-agent-discounts [the campsites at disney’s fort wilderness resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/the-campsites-at-disneys-fort-wilderness-resort-travel-agent-discounts [copper creek villas & cabins at disney’s wilderness lodge travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/copper-creek-villas–cabins-at-disneys-wilderness-lodge-travel-agent-discounts [disney’s riviera resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/disneys-riviera-resort-travel-agent-discounts [walt disney world dolphin hotel travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/walt-disney-world-dolphin-hotel-travel-agent-discounts [walt disney world swan hotel travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/walt-disney-world-swan-hotel-travel-agent-discounts [four seasons resort orlando at walt disney world resort travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/four-seasons-resort-orlando-at-walt-disney-world-resort-travel-agent-discounts [walt disney world area travel agent discounts]: https://globaltravel.com/walt-disney-world-area-travel-agent-discounts

Tips for Maximizing Travel Agent Discounts

As a travel agent, staying up to date with the latest promotions and offers is essential to maximize the benefits of Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. By staying abreast of the current discounts and promotions, you can ensure that you take advantage of every opportunity to save money and provide your clients with the best deals available.

To stay informed, make it a habit to regularly check the official website of Walt Disney World Swan Reserve for any new promotions or discounts. Additionally, sign up for their newsletter or follow their social media accounts to receive updates directly in your inbox or feed. By doing so, you will be among the first to know about any exclusive offers or limited-time deals that may arise.

Another valuable resource for travel agents is the availability of comprehensive training and resources provided by Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. They offer specialized training sessions and workshops that cover various aspects of their resort, including accommodations, dining options, and recreational activities. By taking advantage of these training opportunities, you can deepen your knowledge and expertise, allowing you to better serve your clients and provide them with personalized recommendations.

Furthermore, don’t forget to extend the benefits of the travel agent discounts to your clients. As you plan their vacation to Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, highlight the exclusive discounts and offers they can enjoy as a result of booking through you. Emphasize the value they will receive by saving money on accommodations and possibly even additional perks such as complimentary upgrades or special amenities. By showcasing these benefits, you not only enhance the value of your services but also strengthen your relationship with your clients.

In conclusion, by staying up to date with promotions, utilizing the available resources and training, and offering the benefits to your clients, you can maximize the travel agent discounts offered by Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. This proactive approach will not only save you money but also elevate your expertise as a travel agent, enabling you to provide exceptional service to your clients. So, keep an eye out for the latest promotions, invest time in training, and share the advantages with your clients to unlock the full potential of travel agent discounts at Walt Disney World Swan Reserve.

In conclusion, the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a dream destination for travel agents looking to experience the magic of Disney while enjoying exclusive discounts and benefits. By partnering with authorized agencies and proving their eligibility, travel agents can unlock a world of opportunities for themselves and their clients.

The importance of travel agent discounts cannot be overstated. Travel agents play a vital role in helping clients plan their vacations, and being able to offer exclusive discounts and offers at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve enhances their credibility and attracts more clients. These discounts not only provide cost savings but also create a sense of exclusivity and value for clients, making their vacation experience even more memorable.

One of the key benefits of the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve for travel agents is the access to exclusive discounts and offers. These discounts can range from reduced room rates to special packages that include dining and entertainment options. By staying up to date with the latest promotions, travel agents can maximize their savings and pass on the benefits to their clients, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.

In addition to the financial benefits, travel agents who book their clients at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve can also enjoy an enhanced client experience. The resort offers a range of amenities and services that cater specifically to travel agents, including dedicated concierge services and personalized assistance. This ensures that both travel agents and their clients receive top-notch service and have a seamless and memorable vacation.

Another advantage of accessing travel agent discounts at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is the opportunity to attend special events and training. The resort regularly hosts workshops, seminars, and networking events exclusively for travel agents, allowing them to expand their knowledge, network with industry professionals, and stay on top of the latest trends in the travel industry. This not only enhances their professional development but also enables them to provide valuable insights and recommendations to their clients.

In order to access these travel agent discounts, travel agents must register themselves as authorized agents and partner with authorized agencies. They will need to provide proof of eligibility, such as a valid travel agent identification card or a letter of authorization from their agency. Once they have met these requirements, they can start enjoying the exclusive benefits and discounts offered by the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve.

To maximize their travel agent discounts, it is important for travel agents to stay up to date with the latest promotions and offers. By regularly checking the resort’s website and subscribing to their newsletter, travel agents can ensure that they don’t miss out on any exciting opportunities. Additionally, utilizing the resources and training provided by the resort can further enhance their knowledge and expertise, enabling them to provide exceptional service to their clients.

Lastly, travel agents should not forget to offer the benefits of the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve to their clients. By highlighting the exclusive discounts and perks available at the resort, travel agents can attract more clients and provide them with a truly magical and unforgettable vacation experience. Sharing the details of the travel agent discounts with clients can also help build trust and loyalty, as it demonstrates the travel agent’s commitment to providing the best possible value and experiences.

In conclusion, the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve offers travel agents a unique opportunity to enjoy exclusive discounts, enhanced client experiences, and access to special events and training. By taking advantage of these benefits and sharing them with their clients, travel agents can elevate their professional standing and create unforgettable vacation memories for their clients. So, why wait? Register as a travel agent, partner with authorized agencies, and start exploring the wonders of the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve today!

For more information on travel agent discounts at other Disney resorts, check out Disney’s Pop Century Resort Travel Agent Discounts and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Travel Agent Discounts .

Share this:

Related post, savor the savings: exclusive travel agent discounts at marriotts grand chateau, maximize your las vegas experience: travel agent discounts at encore at wynn, level up your stay: unlocking travel agent discounts at nobu hotel, caesars palace.

• Creative (4)
• Destinations (4)
• Eat & Drink (1)
• Family Travel (3)
• Future of Travel (4)
• Health & Fitness (4)
• Lifestyle (3)
• Tips & Tricks (3)
• Travel Tuesday (1)
• Uncategorized (147)

Username or email *

Oops! We could not locate your form.

How To Become A Disney Travel Agent – Get Started Today

The term “travel agent” can sound outdated at times. Who walks into a travel agent shop and books their vacation when it can all be done online? This is a valid question when it comes to travel in general. With websites like Expedia, Priceline and Google, there’s almost no reason to even speak with a person in this way. But Disney travel agents are different.

Disney knows that technology has advanced past the need of in person meetings when it comes to travel. This is why they have built a solid platform for their travel agents to use as they book clients vacations via the phone, internet and email.

This alone has sped up the process of booking a Disney vacation while keeping the personal touch of a human.

If you’ve ever tried to book a Disney vacation on your own without having done it before, it can be overwhelming. There are so many components for the theme parks and cruises that one can get lost very easily or miss out on something important.

That’s where a trained Disney travel agent comes in. Travel agents with Disney have been trained on all their vacations including theme parks, cruises, Adventures, Aulani and resorts.

This allows the trained agent to provide not just the basics of booking for a client, but inside information to make sure they get the most out of it. And when this happens, the client becomes one for life.

How To Become A Disney Travel Agent Selling Disney

To become a Disney specialized travel agent you first need to join an authorized travel agency that is registered with Disney as a seller of travel. MainStreet Travel is one of the easiest companies to join online as they typically get you started training same-day and ready for booking within 24-48 hours.

They are an approved agency with Disney and have been trained agents for over 10 years. Their program is easy to join , has friendly and helpful team managers, and most importantly, on-time with their commission payments.

Joining an agency like MainStreet takes little to no travel skill at all. This is because all your training is provided at the time of joining. The only “skill” you need to posses is a desire to book Disney vacations. A background in sales and customer service is always a plus.

The biggest thing that helps any new agent is if they have been on a vacation before to one of Disney’s resorts or on a cruise. If you have found yourself wanting to go back again and again, this job is probably right for you.

You’ll also want to have a dedicated workspace for when you do get started. Training and booking in a quiet place whether at an office or home is desirable. You don’t want to be booking a clients vacation while your dog is barking or kids are hitting you with pillows (this has happened).

You always want to sound and be professional when it comes to booking so having a place to go is something you’ll want to make sure you have.

You’ll want to make sure you have access to a computer full-time, a phone and the internet. Most of your bookings will come via email or online through websites like Facebook or Instagram. Thus being able to respond to these, even on the go, is important.

Make sure you brush up on your communication skills as well. While most bookings are not done over the phone, some guests do like to speak to you like this so be ready.

There will be guests who know exactly what they want to book when they reach out to you and there will be some who know nothing and will rely on your expertise to help book them a magical vacation. When you’re prepared for all of the above, that’s when you’ll succeed the most.

Can I become a Disney Travel Agent on my own?

You will need to join an agency in order to become a Disney Travel Agent and sell travel to clients. This is due to the need of many certificates and licenses that agencies already have in order to work with suppliers and states.

Becoming a Travel Agent During the Pandemic

It may seem like during the global pandemic, with travel slower than normal, it’s the worst time to become an agent specializing in Disney travel. The truth is, it’s just the opposite. The need for agents once travel gets back to 100% is going to be tremendous. Once airlines and resorts reopen fully, with no limitations, people are going to want to travel. Even as we write this, Summer have been selling out at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line. And the demand is only going to increase come summer/fall time.

What this means for anyone considering becoming an agent with a focus on Disney is now is the best time to get yourself situated and trained because come post-COVID, things are going to get crazy and there will be a lot of people booking Disney vacations .

Lastly, Disney has suffered through a lot during the pandemic with closures and full stops but demand has never changed. Traveling in general has become harder but now more than ever people want to get back to Disney to resume what they already had planned all along.

How Much Money Does A Disney Travel Agent Make Selling Disney?

Don’t put it past yourself to ask this question. While it’s fun to help others book their vacations, you deserve compensation for your time and effort.

Of course this question is a loaded one as there are some many factors that go into it including vacation type, how many guests are traveling, accommodation type, tickets, if they need airfare or transportation and anything else you can think of that a guest may utilize while gone.

The standard industry pay on a vacation package is 10% to the agency. This is the price before taxes are added. Some components like airfare may pay less than 10% or not at all. When it comes to Disney, you can typically expect an agency to get 10% across the board with a few exceptions.

Now as an agent working for an agency, you are going to collect a bit less than this. Why? Because most agencies take about half of your commission for themselves. This is an industry standard but does have some flexibility. Many will offer a tier program that lets you keep more as you book more.

An agency like MainStreet or Boardwalk actually starts you out at 70% and then lets you go up from there. To date, they are the highest paying agency for new agents. What this means is, an agent working for MainStreet who books a vacation with a commission of let’s say $425 will ultimately collect $297.50 at 70%.

When an agent completes a booking, most of the time they are going to be paid after the travel takes place. This is because Disney only pays after the guest has travelled, for obvious reasons. Cancelled trips don’t pay thus agencies have to wait.

As an agent, you can expect to be paid within 30 days after your guests have finished traveling. MainStreet however, will complete the payment to you within 7 days or less which is another nice perk that they offer.

Most agents are paid by direct deposit or check though some can be paid by PayPal or Venmo.

Any agent who books one vacation package a month can expect to make about $200-$300. This is because the average package costs a client around $2,500 to $3,500 for Disneyland in Southern California and about $3,500-$4,000 at Walt Disney World.

Some vacations, like Disney Cruise Line , will earn an agent well over $300 on a single booking as most cruises run the average family $5,000 to $6,000.

There are so many ways to bring this number up as well with add-ons so keep that in mind.

We’ve had many people ask us what the Disney Travel Agent salary is per year. There is no “salary” per se as an agent is paid based on their bookings and there’s no guarantee on the amount of these an agent does.

If you’re looking for something that pay hourly or a salary each year as an agent, this is not the job for you. However, the upside is that your earnings are unlimited.

For instance, a booking could net you several hundred dollars. Doing a few of these each week would pay much more than earning $12 an hour.

Do I Have To Start A Business To Become An Agent?

That’s totally up to you! No matter what you choose to do, you will always be considered an independent contractor to an agency and not an employee. What this means is that you will receive your full pay without any taxes being taken out by them.

This also means that when you file your taxes, you’ll need to pay any taxes you might owe, whether you’re a sole proprietor (yourself as a business) or as a business.

There can be benefits to both of these and we would highly recommend talking to your tax person to figure out what’s best for you. Don’t let any of these ideas scare you from starting. It’s actually much easier than you think and so are the taxes.

Many travel agents like to register as an LLC for the protection that it offers as well as the various tax write-offs. Again, we’re not offering professional advice here so talk with an expert. Typically this is done when you expect to be paid more than a certain amount each year.

We’ve seen agents write off their computers, phone and office space. Basically anything you use to work your job and provide for your clients can typically be written off. Just something to keep in mind as you move forward.

What Is Disney’s Travel Agent Training Like?

It’s pretty simple actually. Agencies like MainStreet will send you a welcome packet after you’ve joined. It goes over everything including pay, perks (see below) and how to start your training.

Training is done online and in most cases can be started right away. Disney offers something called the College of Disney Knowledge which helps train a new agent on each of the destinations they offer. This includes Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line , Adventures by Disney and their beach resorts.

The entire training process can be done in about 24 hrs though we highly recommend taking it slow to begin with. You really want to learn what’s being taught as we guarantee you’ll use it as some point.

College of Disney Knowledge sessions are done in Powerpoint presentation with voiceover. There are times where you will watch videos and visit the Disney Travel Agent website for references.

You can pause, stop and continue any lesson later if needs be. Each lesson has a quiz at the end and to become “certified” you’ll need to complete all the core lessons and then take a 50 question quiz to pass.

While studying super hard probably isn’t necessary, you will want to take notes. Memorizing cruise ship names and the names of restaurants they offer isn’t something to just glaze over.

You’ll also be expected to know different vacation components like tickets and their options, resort hotels, lands inside the parks and names of firework shows to name a few.

Even going beyond Disney and into the realm of Universal Vacations , the training is the same. Work at your own speed.

Are There Any Perks To Disney’s Travel Agent Program?

Of course! One of the great things about the DTA program is that they want their agents to be involved in what they sell. This means offering some special discounts so agents can visit and familiarize themselves with resorts and cruises.

We will highlight one thing before getting into the details: All perks from Disney are subject to change. While we have not seen them change per se in over 5 years, this doesn’t mean they won’t. Basically, don’t bank on something.

Disney typically offers the following agent discounts once you have completed (or renewed) your training:

• About 50% off a Disneyland Resort Hotel
• About 50% off a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel
• About 30-40% off an Aulani hotel room
• About 50% off a Disney Cruise Line Booking
• One free 1-day Disneyland Park Hopper Ticket
• One free 1-day Walt Disney World Hopper Ticket OR a deeply discounted multi-day Hopper Ticket
• Discounted Adventures by Disney Itineraries
• Discounted River Cruises through Adventures by Disney

Again, these are earned upon completion of your training each year AND proof of a CLIA or IATA membership.

Your CLIA or IATA membership will come from your agency. While some agencies enroll you for free into these programs, there is a cost for your agent ID card at $120 per calendar year. This ID card is necessary to book any of the above perks. Be aware that there are agencies that require you book so much before giving you access to a CLIA card. Programs like MainStreet do not.

While it may seem steep, the savings on any one of those components will easily cover (and then some) the cost of the ID. If you don’t plan to travel in a certain year, then you don’t have to get it.

Completion of your training and your ID card is required to complete your booking of any of these perks. Booking is done online and in real time meaning you should only book once you have completed everything and have your CLIA card.

What’s an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” or “Earmarked” Agency?

A lot of people come across this term or marking on agency websites. The term Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is part of an optional program that private agencies can join. The program, referred to as “Earmarked” is a way for Disney to recognize agencies who have consistently sold a certain level of revenue for each product (Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, Walt Disney World) for at least two years in a row.

By doing so, Disney invites these agencies to participate in the Earmarked program. Agencies who accept can reach different levels within the program including silver, gold, platinum, etc. Agencies must improve upon their sales each year in every category or they face removal from the program. There is no difference in how travel agencies book whether they participate in the program or not.

Host agencies typically do not participate in the program due to having independent contractors instead of employees. Again, the program is completely optional and up to the agency to decide whether they want to participate in it or not. Agencies who are not Earmarked are still authorized to book Disney vacations and have the same tools as those who are.

Best Disney Host Agency

A host agency provides you with access to suppliers, support and tools. a Disney Host Agency does just this for Disney Destinations including Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney. You’ll gain access to and be able to sell them making commission.

We’ve already mentioned them serval times but right now the best Disney Travel Host Agency to join is MainStreet Travel. They have been growing for several years and have moved from private to host in the last year. This means that they are accepting agents to join their program right now.

We love MainStreet Travel for a lot of things but here’s our top list:

• 70% of all commission paid (industry average is 50%)
• Tons of suppliers – Disney, Universal, Cruise Lines, VAX, Sandals, Expedia and more!
• No monthly or yearly fees. Just a one-time $99 fee to join.
• Online training – Train online at your own pace.
• CLIA access – Get your CLIA card for agent benefits
• Online Tutorials – Lean how to complete tasks, market, and train through videos.
• Giveaways and benefits every month including cash.
• Support – Live chat, email and phone support.

There’s a lot more to their program but as a Disney Host Agency, you won’t find a better option. Take a look at their agent website and go thought their FAQ’s.

How Do I Market Myself To Clients?

While an agency gives you everything you need to book a clients vacation, finding that client can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re doing.

The best place to start is social media. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and the top three places to create profiles. TikTok is also becoming a great place to get followers.

Create a profile and then invite your friends and family. Ask them to share your page or profile with their friends. Let them know you book Disney vacations and you should get a pretty good response as most people love Disney.

On your pages, stay active with posts about special offers and fun tips or hacks. While these take very little effort, they can produce great results as people get excited when they learn about cool Disney things.

You can list yourself with Google My Business so that when people search for Disney vacations in your area, your name pops up. This is a great way to get locals to your website/phone/email asking questions and eventually booking.

On Facebook, join local community pages and let people know you’re available to book Disney vacations and how they can reach out to you.

There’s an endless number of options to get potential clients talking to you. Be patient though. Bookings don’t just come overnight (sometimes they do). Keep at it and eventually it will pay off.

Are There Minimum Booking Requirements?

For some agencies there are and for some there are not. It comes down to the one you join. Some may require you to book at least once a month or maybe even once a year. These ones don’t have a dollar minimum so all you need to do is complete a booking, whatever that may be.

Other agencies may require you to hit a minimum dollar booking amount, say $5,000 each year. Not hitting this mark may cause revocation of your agent status or a decline in your commission percentage.

The MainStreet agency has no minimums for agents so whether you book once a year, never a year or 3 times a year, you’re an agent. Agents who book more than 35 bookings a year with them can increase their commission percentage, up from 70%.

What Is The College of Disney Knowledge?

Travel Agents wanting to sell Disney Destinations will take the College of Disney Knowledge training courses provided by Disney. The College gives agents an introduction to all their products including Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani, Adventures by Disney and the Disneyland Resort. Courses consist of video presentations as well as quizzes at the end of each one.

Each year travel agents have to retake the basic courses that have been updated with new information. To graduate from the College of Disney Knowledge agents must complete each of the basic courses and then pass the annual assessment that consists of 25 questions about all 5 products. After passing with 80% or more agents receive a certificate showing that they have successfully completed the College of Disney Knowledge.

Outside of the 5 basic courses, agents can also take advanced classes that dive deeper into each product. These courses are being updated throughout the year and are not required to take.

Agents who pass also receive access to yearly benefits that include hotel and ticket offers at a discounted rate for the agent.

In order to join and train in the College agents must join an agency like MainStreet Travel. Once under them they can register and start taking the classes.

Make sure you look for a reputable travel agency who can help you sell Disney products. If you want to focus on just Disney, find someone like MainStreet who does just this . They offer free E&O insurance, are a Registered Seller of Travel in CA and FL and they offer superb customer service.

You should know that being an agent requires a time commitment, especially during training. You’ll want to focus on getting this done and learning all you can before you start selling.

Working from home is a nice perk but you’ll want to make sure you have a few items including a laptop, internet and phone.

Agents get paid a commission and it typically isn’t at the time of booking. It’s when the travel has taken place by your guest. Once done, an agency will pay once the supplier has paid them.

It’s a great idea to create a Facebook Page for your agency and invite friends and family to like it. Then keep active posting deals and fun trip ideas. These get people excited about taking a Disney vacation and can easily turn into bookings. List your agency online so people can find a Disney travel agent near them.

Joining the right agency can make or break your experience so be sure to choose one that can support you!

Adventures by Disney Discounts & Deals: 12 Ways To Save

Adventures by Disney trips can be costly, but fortunately there are plenty of ways to save. Here, we’ve compiled some of the best Adventures by Disney discounts, deals, promotions, travel hacks, and savings strategies to help you find a way to make your dream trip a reality. Read on for details on each tip, plus a real-life example where following our suggestions would save more than $6,000!

Book Through Our Favorite Disney Travel Agency for Instant Savings!

1. Look For Official AbD Offers and Promotions

Image © Disney

The most straightforward way to get cheaper fares on an Adventures by Disney trip is to book one of its departures which is covered by an official special offer.

So what type of discounts does AbD itself provide? It varies based on the time of year and travel demand.

Per-Person Discounts

Adventures by Disney will occasionally offer discounts – typically in the range of $250 to $500 per person – off of the regular price of select trips. These offers usually have time limits associated, and might be available only on certain departure dates of a particular trip.

Because they reduce the overall cost per person, their value as a savings tool really depends on the size of your travel party.

Returning Traveler Promotions

Disney may offer special rates or discounted extras to their so-called “Adventure Insiders,” Disney’s name for people who have traveled on an Adventures by Disney trip in the past. To qualify for these rates (when offered), you’ll usually need to book within a certain number of days after your last trip, or by another pre-set deadline.

Adventure Insiders also get other perks including early booking windows on Adventures by Disney trips and even Disney Cruises.

Check with your travel agent or the Adventures by Disney website to find the latest official special offers .

2. Buy Discounted Disney Gift Cards

This tip feels like cheating, but it’s perfectly legal. So it’s time we let you in on one of the best-kept secrets for getting Disney discounts!

Some stores and warehouse clubs may allow you to buy Disney Gift Cards at a lower price than face value .

For example, Target’s RedCard / Circle Card program offers 5% off of most purchases, including Disney Gift Cards. So you can buy a $100 Disney Gift Card for $95, or a $500 Disney gift card for $475.

Things To Consider When Using Gift Cards

The maximum value allowed on any single Disney Gift Card is $1,000 so you’ll need to purchase several. If you buy smaller-value cards, you can usually consolidate them via the Disney Gift Card website into just a few cards of $1,000 each. You don’t have to do so, but it certainly makes using the accumulated funds easier.

Either way, plan ahead! You may run into daily transaction limits from the store or your bank. You don’t want to come skidding into the Target parking lot at 10PM on the night your final payment is due and hope it all works out.

Another caveat: if your plans change and you’re owed a refund, the money goes back onto the original method of payment (in this case, the Disney gift card). So if you cancel your trip, you could be “stuck” with thousands of dollars worth of Disney Gift Cards, which can only be used for Disney-related purchases.

And it probably goes without saying that you should only try this hack at a legitimate store or reputable online retailer; I personally wouldn’t trust any cheap gift cards I found on eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.

Is It Worth Going to the Trouble?

Purchasing gift cards at a discount – and then using those gift cards to pay for your Disney Adventures – might seem complex at first. But 5% of the overall cost of an Adventures by Disney trip can be a significant amount of cash. With a $30,000 fare very much within the realm of possibility for a family of four, this hack alone could save you $1,500. So it’s well worth the effort.

Beyond the cash savings, many folks like this hack because it lets them save up for their trips over time, buying a new gift card every few weeks (and yes, it works just as well for Disney Cruises and Disney World vacations ).

3. Save up to $1,500 More with The Vacationeer

Our favorite Disney Travel Agency, The Vacationeer , offers additional discounts of up to $1,500  for its clients who book an Adventures by Disney trip. Why do they do this? Much like a cruise onboard credit , it’s a booking incentive from the travel agency to encourage you to book your Adventures by Disney vacation through them.

How the Offer Works

Your dedicated Vacationeer will start by finding the best possible price on your Adventures by Disney trip using any available promotions and discounts. Once they’ve gotten the price as low as possible, The Vacationeer will provide an additional discount based on the total trip fare.

You’ll still need to pay the entire initial deposit amount (typically 10% to 15% of the trip price) when you book, and pay the balance due (minus The Vacationeer ’s discount) before your final payment deadline. Other terms may apply, so be sure to ask your Vacationeer for details.

About The Vacationeer

Because they’re an Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , you can be assured that your trip will be handled with the professionalism and expertise that can only come from booking with an agency that specializes in Disney vacations .

The Vacationeer doesn’t charge any planning fees to plan your trip for you, and they don’t hike up their prices to trick you with phony discounts.

They’re our official Travel Agency partner here at MagicGuides – we know you’ll love them because they take care of all the logistics so you can have a stress-free planning experience .

So stop dreaming about your bucket list vacation and actually make it happen!

4. Choose Cheaper Travel Dates

Much like airfare, hotels, or cruising, when you choose to travel can have a big impact on the cost of your Adventures by Disney trip.

Let’s look at just one example. At the time this article was published, these were the starting rates for the 8-day Italy land adventure on a few different departure dates:

• June 2, 2024 departure: $8,999 for adults and $8,549 for kids.
• June 9, 2024 departure: $8,199 for adults and $7,789 for kids.
• March 6, 2024 departure: $7,399 for adults and $7,029 for kids.

Based on these prices, a family of four (2 adults, 2 children) could save $3,120 just by shifting their travel dates seven days – or save $6,240 by changing from a summer vacation to a spring trip.

The more flexible you can be with your travel dates, the better you’ll be able to take advantage of seasonal price swings and possibly save some major cash.

5. Book Shorter “Escape” Adventures

So-called “Land Adventures” make up the bulk of Adventures by Disney’s offerings each year. These are the trips that made AbD famous, usually lasting between 8 and 14 days and truly immersing travelers in a country and its culture.

But did you know that AbD also offers shorter “Escapes” that are more like a long weekend?

These shorter trips will still give you the biggest highlights of a destination, but do so at a more affordable price point .

An example: at the time this article was published, a 10-day Australia land adventure had a starting price of $7,849 per adult. But a 4-day “Sydney Escape” was $3,699.

Escapes are typically focused on one city (such as Rome, Paris, Sydney, or London) rather than an entire country, but still offer a great taste of the local flavor at a lower price.

6. Leverage Child Pricing on AbD Packages

Adventures by Disney has a surprisingly low threshold for adult pricing. Anyone age 12+ pays the adult price for a trip – only those age 11 or younger at the time the trip begins will pay the child fare. (Note that despite this pricing rule, “Adult Exclusive” departures are still limited to ages 18+ only.)

If you’re considering taking the family on an Adventures by Disney trip, it’s worth doing so before at least one of the kids hits age 12. The savings won’t be that much when compared to the total cost of the trip – probably a few hundred dollars – but every little bit helps.

Adventures by Disney does go out of its way to ensure kids stay entertained on their trips, so there’s no need to worry that your kids aren’t mature enough to enjoy it. Just follow the recommended minimum age for each departure.

7. Stack Discounts to Save Even More and Get the Cheapest Price

Any extreme couponer knows that one of the biggest ways to unlock extra savings is to know when coupons can be ”stacked” – that is, using multiple coupons for a single item.

The great thing about all of the tips and discounts we’ve shared here is that they can usually be combined to save a significant amount of money on Disney vacation packages! Here’s a real-world example using actual pricing and promotions that were available at the time this article was written.

Let’s say we’re a party of two adults interested in going on the 12-day Vietnam, Laos, & Cambodia adventure in March 2024.

• We’re considering the March 25, 2024 departure. It’s $17,598 total for our party of two.
• We notice that the March 11, 2024 departure is significantly cheaper – $13,398 for our party of two (a savings of $4,200). The new date happens to be an adult-exclusive departure, but that’s fine with us because we only have adults in our party. Our vacation dates are flexible, so we pick this trip instead.
• Our travel agent at The Vacationeer tells us the new date is eligible for an AbD Special Offer with a $350 per-person discount – that drops the price to $12,698 for our party of two (another $700 in savings).
• Because we’re booking through The Vacationeer , they’ll provide an additional discount on the $12,698 fare (saving us almost $650 in this case). We’ll owe the remaining $12,048.
• We’ll buy Disney Gift Cards to cover the remaining balance. Because we’re buying them at Target using our 5% RedCard / Circle Card discount, we’ll get $12,048 worth of Gift Cards for around $11,445 (about $603 in savings versus face value).

Just like that, what started out as a $17,598 trip now costs $11,445. That’s a total savings of $6,153 versus the original estimate – easily enough to cover the cost of airfare plus some other travel expenses!

Find the Biggest Savings for Your Bucket List Vacation

8. Book Early… or Late… for the Lowest Prices

This one is admittedly hard to accurately predict. But if everything else works out, this tip might save you a few dollars more.

Like many other things in the travel world, Adventures by Disney trip fares may be lowest when travel dates are first announced. Booking early may be to your advantage because it’s possible that trip fares can increase as space becomes more limited. Booking early lets you lock in your prices and secure your desired travel dates before things start to fill up. (Worried about missing out on lower prices later on? A good travel agent such as The Vacationeer will keep an eye out for new discounts and automatically apply them to your trip even after you’re booked! It’s one of many reasons you should be booking with a Disney travel agent !)

On the other hand, we’ve also seen “last minute” travel deals for itineraries which are lagging in bookings. These can save you some money on the trip fare itself — just make sure you’re not unwittingly locking yourself into high-priced last-minute airfare that will offset (and even eclipse) your trip fare savings. Waiting too long also runs the risk of sellouts on your desired trip or trip date because AbD tour groups are quite small… typically around 40 people per departure date. Unless you’re very flexible with travel plans, waiting to book probably isn’t the best savings strategy.

9. Get Clever With Airfare

Airfare from your home city is not included in the cost of your Adventures by Disney trip. You do have the option of booking a flight (at additional expense) as part of your vacation package, but you might be able to buy it on your own at a better rate.

Of course all of the usual tips apply, such as using your frequent flier miles or reward points to cut down on the cost. But we have a few more tricks up our sleeves.

Search Wisely for Savings

Most people know about the big travel search engines – Priceline, Kayak, Expedia, Travelocity, and the like. But have you heard of ITA Matrix ? It’s a robust search engine for finding airline deals that allows you to search for a number of different parameters. Another good option is Google Flights . You can also sign up for Airfarewatchdog alerts to get real-time alerts on special offers and flight deals between your departure city and your destination.

And remember, many Adventures by Disney trips start in one city and end in another, so you might be booking “open jaw” flights. There’s absolutely no rule that says you have to fly on the same airline in both directions. Shop around for the cheapest fare to get to your AbD trip; then abandon that carrier for another on the way home if it’s more affordable.

Try a non-U.S. Carrier for International Trips

Don’t be afraid to broaden your horizons a bit when it comes to airlines, either. If you’re flying to Italy from the United States, don’t just check Delta or United – also price out ITA Airways. You might find a decent rate by flying with “the home team.”

Some international carriers are even subsidized as part of their country’s overall tourism strategy. If you’re traveling to Europe, IcelandAir(!) can be an unlikely ally. First, they offer surprisingly cheap airfare between the U.S. and Europe – I’ve seen it as low as $200 for a seat on a flight from NYC to Paris! Second, their layover policy is incredibly advantageous; every flight stops in Reykjavík and there’s no additional airline charge to change your brief layover into a multi-day extended “stopover.” That means you can extend your vacation on the cheap, adding in Iceland’s stunning natural beauty (and maybe even a glimpse of the Northern Lights) for just the cost of a hotel and meals.

10. Book Pre/Post Tour Accommodations Separately

It takes a brave traveler indeed to book an international flight that arrives just a few hours before their Adventures by Disney group tour begins. At best, you’ll have weapons-grade jet lag; at worst, flight delays will mean you’re stuck at LAX while your Japan adventure begins in Osaka without you.

It’s much wiser to book some time before or after your trip at a hotel in the destination city. Adventures by Disney offers an optional extra hotel night pre- or post-tour (at an additional cost) to help streamline the process. But if savings are a bigger concern than a simplified experience, you can always book pre/post nights on your own to possibly save some cash.

Consider Short-Term Rentals

I’ve personally had really good luck with Airbnb-type accommodations in Europe; my wife and I spent half-a-month in Italy earlier this year without setting foot inside a hotel until the night before our 9AM flight back home.

The apartments we picked were clean, safe, and infinitely cheaper than a hotel; three nights in a flat within walking distance of the Vatican on Easter Weekend cost us less than one night at the Rome Airport Hilton later that week!

Better still, we felt like we got a much more authentic “local” experience than if we’d been in a chain hotel; we knew we were directly supporting a local family rather than a mega corporation; and most importantly, we were able to get crucial insight from our host about which places the locals go to get the good Gelato.

The Downsides

Booking your own pre- or post-tour nights means that you won’t be able to use AbD’s free ground transfers to get from the airport to your hotel. Those are only offered to people who book their pre/post nights through Adventures by Disney, even if you’re staying at the exact same hotel.

And of course, if something goes askew with your reservation, you’re on your own to try to solve it; Babel and Duolingo may not fully equip you to inquire at the front desk as to how your toilet wound up on the balcony.

Get Answers to All Your Adventures by Disney Questions

11. Beware of Sneaky Currency Conversion

First, to be clear: Adventures by Disney trip prices are calculated in United States Dollars, so this is not a concern for the trip fare itself . But for everything else surrounding your trip, it’s worth keeping an eye on currency conversion.

Of course there’s always consideration of the relative strength or weakness of the U.S. Dollar versus the local currency of your destination. But that’s not what we’re talking about here.

We’re on the lookout for sneaky currency conversion. It’s not illegal, but it can still hurt your wallet.

A Typical Scenario

You’re looking for a hotel room on your own for the night before your AbD tour begins. You find a charming local hotel and – what luck! – the website even shows the prices in United States Dollars. This is a great convenience to you, an American traveler who is not very accustomed to international currency.

What you don’t notice is that this oh-so-helpful USD amount is actually calculated at a pretty lousy exchange rate – much worse than what you’d get in a typical transaction. In other words, you’re paying a hidden upcharge just to complete the transaction in a familiar, “comfortable” currency.

The good news is that with a little looking, you should be able to find the option on their website to have the prices shown in the local currency instead.

Find those prices, check the real bank-to-bank conversion amount (a simple Google search such as “ Convert 350 EUR to USD ” will do the trick) and see if it looks like a better deal to purchase in the local currency versus whatever the website originally claimed the USD amount was.

You might still pay a small fee through your bank for an international transaction, but those fees are usually just pennies on the dollar.

Where to Watch Out

I’m always suspicious of the U.S. Dollar prices shown for hotel rooms in another country, flights operated by an overseas-based airline, and flights originating at an overseas airport (even if on a U.S.-based carrier).

But by far, the most notorious offenders are during your trip at ATMs and payment terminals at stores/restaurants.

True story: I wanted 300 Euros from an ATM in Rome. The machine read my debit card, recognized it was American, and cheerfully offered to “report” the transaction back to my bank as $375 instead of €300. I wouldn’t have to worry about fluctuating exchange rates or my bank charging me a foreign transaction fee. How convenient!

The only problem with their brilliant plan was that I knew the real exchange rate at the time was about $1.10 per Euro (meaning €300 was worth $330, not $375). I also knew that the bank fee I was supposedly avoiding was about $3 (which my bank would refund anyway).

I declined the conversion to dollars and felt appropriately smug knowing that I had deprived the ATM owner of an undeserved $45.

The good news is that most places are required to offer credit/debit card transactions in the local currency. If you’re standing in a country that isn’t your own and have the choice of paying in dollars or the local currency, always pick the local option.

12. Get More Time To Pay

This last tip may not directly save you any money on an Adventures by Disney trip, but it still might make it easier to afford.

As previously mentioned, Adventures by Disney allows you to put down an initial deposit (typically 10%-15% of the trip fare) and pay the rest on your own schedule as long as you meet your final payment deadline (usually 90-120 days before the trip starts).

If you want to stretch that payment out a bit further, your Disney Visa may be able to help. One of the long-standing perks for Disney Visa cardholders is 0% financing for six months on Disney vacation purchases.

Depending on your credit limit, paying your balance due with a Disney Visa could give you an additional four months to pay for your vacation without any interest charges, especially handy if you’re trying to cover other big expenses such as airfare in advance of the trip.

And of course, purchases on a Disney Visa also accrue reward dollars that can be used on future Disney purchases.

Final thoughts

I’ve never regretted a single penny I’ve spent on travel – I firmly believe in the value of time spent with loved ones, doing amazing things and experiencing the wonders of our world and its people. And the food’s usually pretty darn good, too.

But that doesn’t mean I’m not looking to save whenever I can. My philosophy has always been to scrimp where I can so I can splurge where I want to. Not every tip I’ve shared here will work for every traveler or every situation, but I hope you’ve found some information in this article that helps you find ways to make your dream trip a reality.

Get Free Planning Help and Save Extra on Your Adventure

Using an experienced travel agency such as The Vacationeer is the best way to book your Adventures by Disney vacation. Why?

• Save Up To $1,500 More: The Vacationeer provides additional savings based on the overall cost of your Adventures by Disney trip fare
• No Planning Fees: There are never any extra planning fees or travel agency surcharges
• Get Every Discount: Your Vacationeer will make sure you get the best rates and every possible discount (even adding new discounts as they arise should you be eligible)
• One Dedicated Agent: You won’t be bounced around from person to person; a single, dedicated agent arranges your travel from start to finish
• Expert Advice: Vacationeers are the Disney travel experts, happy to share their first hand experience with you and help you pick the best Adventures by Disney trip for your family

It doesn’t matter what your bucket list vacation is — Alaska , Australia , Italy , a European river cruise , or even a super-exclusive private adventure for just you, your family, and your friends!

The Adventures by Disney experts at The Vacationeer can help you every step of the way — they specialize in making lifelong travel dreams come true!

You’re never under any obligation to book . And they offer free consultations  and no-cost quotes , so there’s no reason not to connect with them today!

All information in this article is accurate as of publication. Offers are subject to change and discontinuation at any time.

Related Posts:

Share This Page: Choose Your Platform!

About the author: jackie steele.

Related Posts

Thank you for this amazingly well written information. I am trying to plan a trip in 2025 for myself, my mother and my son. Looking at the ABD trips got me so excited. They’re perfect and will ensure everyone has a good time. However, they aren’t cheap. Plus, I have to account for flights. Thinking about the cost has me worried however, this makes me feel like I have some options. I’ve already reached out to the Vacationeer and am looking forward to planning an amazing bucket list trip! Thank you for taking time to share your knowledge with the world.

Thanks for your kind words, Sam. I hope these tips helped put that dream trip just a bit more in reach!

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Two travel truths right now are that travel has become very expensive and air travel is more unpredictable and unpleasant than normal. Personally, I spent $700 round-trip each on domestic economy tickets to take my kid to summer camp 1,000 miles away. That's absolutely insane.

On the other end of the spectrum, another type of travel is having a different kind of moment.

This type of travel remains affordable and typically isn't as stressful as dealing with airports, delays and cancellations. In fact, I'd argue it's the most relaxing and affordable vacation available right now: a cruise ship.

Personally, I'm partial to Disney Cruise Line .

Disney Cruise Line has a reputation for being expensive and designed just for families — though neither of those things actually has to be true . While these cruises can be more expensive than some other cruise lines, if you can select a port you can drive to, you may be surprised at how affordable a Disney cruise can be when viewed as an all-in vacation price.

Here's how to save money on a Disney cruise — and find the cheaper Disney cruises that start at around $500 per person (based on double occupancy) for the entire experience.

That's less than that painful $700 flight — which, unlike a cruise, doesn't include accommodations, meals or entertainment.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Pick the dates that start at just over $1,000

Yes, Disney Cruise Line costs more than Carnival or Royal Caribbean, but throw away the notion that a Disney cruise is unattainably expensive. It simply isn't true. The peak school break weeks are expensive, but with so many three- and four-night sailings, you can choose a long weekend and avoid those pricey weeks if you want to.

As an example, two people can sail for three nights from Miami to the Bahamas on Disney Dream from Friday, Sept. 9 to Monday, Sept. 12 for just $1255.72 in a verandah cabin (not some windowless inside space).

Good luck finding a hotel you actually want to stay at that weekend for three nights in Miami for that price — and remember this $1,256 rate is the price for the entire cruise experience, not just the room.

You don't have to sail from Florida ports during hurricane season to find that $1,000-ish price point. You can sail for roughly the same price from Galveston, Texas to Mexico on Disney Magic in January 2023 on a four-night cruise to Mexico for just $1,441 for two people in a balcony cabin.

Adding two kids to that same Galveston itinerary to make a trip for four people would raise the price to $2,324.

Or, sail from San Diego to Mexico starting at $1,086 in an inside cabin or $1,278 for a verandah room.

Think about it. That $2,324 rate from Galveston for four people works out to $145 per person, per day — which isn't bad compared to what other trips cost these days.

For those same travel dates of Jan. 27-31, 2023, it would cost a family of four $1,444 for four nonstop Basic Economy flights on United from Houston to Cancun. Four nights of lodging at the all-inclusive Hyatt Ziva resort in Cancun (which includes meals, entertainment and a kids club, like the sailing does) come to $3,392 for those four nights.

For the flights and hotel stay, that's just over double the cost of the Disney Cruise for the same number of days visiting roughly the same destination.

Related: 7 ways the brand-new Disney Wish surprised me

Let Disney choose your cabin

A good way to save money on a Disney cruise is to let the cruise line choose your cabin in exchange for a discounted fare. These are called guaranteed rates. You pick the room type (inside, verandah, etc.) but Disney gets to be the one that selects exactly which room within that category you get.

These fares come with additional restrictions around payments and changes, but you can save up to 35% off the going rates. I've had great success with these discounted fares in the past. As long as you aren't too picky about where your room is on the ship, this strategy can be a tremendous way to save on your Disney cruise.

Book via a travel agent that gives you onboard credit

You can log onto the Disney Cruise Line website and book the cruise yourself, but you may not want to when you know a travel agent can do the work for you — and give you some credit back in the process.

The amount varies, but I've gotten up to $750 as a statement credit when I booked a pricier Disney cruise at the concierge level . On the more affordable cruises and cabins, expect the credit to be more in the $75-$200 range.

While the amount will vary, you can often get somewhere between 5-10% of the price of your cruise back in the form of a gift card or shipboard spending credit through a travel agent or even via Costco Travel .

If you aren't sure where to start, you can get offers from agents who want to book your cruise — sometimes with extra perks and credits — via Cruise Compete .

Pay with discounted Disney gift cards

At wholesale clubs, such as Sam's Club and Costco, you can reliably purchase Disney gift cards at a discount . Sometimes, these discounts get even bigger around sales such as Black Friday. But on an ongoing basis, you can usually get a $500 Disney gift card for about $485.

That's not a huge discount, but if you paid for your $3,000 Disney cruise with those cards, it would save you $90.

If you have a Target credit card, you can also save 5% on Disney gift cards at Target. On that same $3,000 Disney Cruise, that's $150 saved by going that route.

Remember that you can often earn bonus points with certain credit cards when shopping for Disney gift cards depending on where you purchase them. Office supply stores, grocery stores and even wholesale clubs can be good bonus categories for different rewards credit cards, allowing you to earn 3, 4 or 5 points per dollar on your card while you buy your gift cards.

Use your credit card points

Not all credit card points can easily translate to a "free" Disney cruise, but some can.

The easiest way to do this is to pay some — or all — of the cruise with a credit card that lets you use your points at a fixed value to erase a travel charge. This way, you could book with a travel agent to get that onboard credit and then use your points to wipe out your deposit or final payment.

For example, if you put the charge on your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , you could use the miles at 1 cent each in value to wipe out the cost. The first example given, on the three-night cruise from Miami to the Bahamas for $1,255 ,would take about 125,500 Venture miles to fully erase the cash cost.

With those two welcome bonuses currently each at 75,000 bonus miles after $4,000 in spending in the first three months from account opening, that's not an unrealistic goal.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles worth $750 in travel with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card after $4,000 in spending in three months from account opening.

Upgrade at the port for less

This tip isn't exactly about saving money overall, but it is a way to get a better room for less than the original list price.

If the cruise isn't sold out, you can go to a special desk at the port before you board and ask about any space-available discounted upgrades. At Port Canaveral, where all the Disney check-in desks are on the left side of the terminal building, the upgrade desk is the rightmost desk.

The cost to upgrade will be related to the room type you've booked and the one you'd like to upgrade to. The supervisor will use a pre-printed chart to find that cost differential. It will cost less than if you had booked a better room initially, sometimes by about half, though that number varies.

On our Disney Dream cruise this spring, I was able to upgrade to a larger and more deluxe cabin for $34. Total. Get to the terminal as soon as you can if you are hoping for a suite or concierge upgrade because those are very limited and go quickly.

While I haven't done it, I've also heard that even cheaper prices become available on board once the ship sets sail, though I haven't tried that myself.

Related: Is Disney Cruise concierge-level worth it?

Save 10% by putting a deposit for your next cruise down while you're on board

The easiest way to save 10% on a Disney cruise doesn't work for your first cruise, but can work for all subsequent ones.

When you are on a Disney Cruise Line ship, you can put a $250 placeholder deposit down on a future Disney cruise to be used within two years. This can be done in your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app while on board.

You don't have to pick which cruise you want to do at that moment, but by putting that $250 in a placeholder you can not only apply that $250 when you ultimately pick your next Disney cruise but also save 10% off the rate valid on most dates and room types in the process.

That one step can save you hundreds of dollars on your vacation. Worst case scenario, that $250 is refunded to you if you don't book another cruise in the next two years. That happened to us during the pandemic, and the money came back automatically and without a problem once the 24 months were up.

Related: 12 ways new cruisers waste money on their first cruise

BYOB and skip the extras

If you are looking to trim costs on your Disney cruise, bring things from home that you would otherwise likely purchase.

For example, you can bring up to six cans of beer or two bottles of wine per person aged 21 and up. Instead of paying cruise prices for those beverages, you can bring what you want from home at regular land-based prices, up to those maximum limits.

You can also bring one case of unopened water bottles on board. These come in handy for shore excursions or when you need to hydrate by the pool. (Better yet, pack a refillable water bottle.)

Since a Disney Cruise already includes meals, room service, snacks, soft-serve ice cream, fountain drinks and plenty of entertainment, you don't need to spend anything additional on board if you don't want to. This is especially true on a new-to-you ship and on those shorter three- and four-night cruises where there is more than enough to do and explore already.

Just carry on a few beverages and skip all the extras.

If your sailing goes to Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay , beach chairs, umbrellas, the ocean waterslide and lunch on the island are also included at no extra charge.

Seek out spa discounts

If you're focused on saving money, you'll want to skip the spa entirely on your cruise. But if nothing says vacation like a massage, you can find a discount on onboard spa services on a Disney cruise.

I've received a port day discount that was about 20% off because most people book their treatments on sea days, and the spa is less busy when the ship is docked. The Disney Visa also advertises a 20% discount on select massages or facials on port days on an ongoing basis.

I've also received $50 off a second service while checking out for my first. It's fairly common for cruise ship spas to offer discounts when you book multiple treatments.

If you don't see a discount advertised, just ask at the spa desk. That's how I got hooked up with spa deals on previous Disney cruises.

Use Disney Visa onboard cruise discounts

In addition to the 20% off select spa treatments, Disney Visa cardholders also get 10% off a Castaway Cay package that includes snorkel gear, a bike rental and an inner tube. Additional discounts include 10% off onboard merchandise purchases of $50 or more and onboard photos.

If you need time to spread out payments, those with a Disney Visa can also get a 0% annual percentage rate on their Disney vacation for six months. Right now, the card also has a welcome bonus of up to $300 toward a Disney vacation.

Related: Best credit cards for booking a cruise

Book early and go off-peak

This is a no-brainer tip to avid cruisers, but if you are newer to cruising, know that booking early and sailing off-peak are great ways to save money on a Disney cruise.

I booked our Alaska cruise for the summer of 2023 the day the calendar opened this year because the price typically increases as the sailing date nears. You can sometimes find last-minute specials, but most of the time, cruise prices only go one direction — up.

You'll put 20% down when you first book and then have until much closer to sailing to pay off the remaining 80%.

Date flexibility will also help you save money on a Disney cruise. The same itinerary that costs $2,000 in September will be up to three times more expensive if you want to sail over winter break.

If you can't find any affordable prices, I recommend scrolling the cruise list by price instead of starting with the perfect date or itinerary. A sailing you may not have initially considered may turn out to be the perfect vacation option.

Bottom line

Believe it or not, a Disney cruise can be much cheaper than a trip to the Disney theme parks. ( A cruise is often much less stressful, too .)

Remember that $2,324 four-night sailing from Galveston to Mexico for a family of four? At $145 per person, per night, it's absolutely less than a trip to Disney World. Park tickets alone these days can be close to $145 per person and Disney resort rooms are $200-$700 or more per night, depending on your resort choice.

Add food costs on top of that, and you're almost certainly well above the price of a Disney cruise.

Related: How much does a Walt Disney World vacation cost ?

If you stack on some of these tips to save money on your Disney cruise, you could knock anywhere from 10-25% off the list price, depending on how many of the tips you are able to use.

As for me, I'm seriously contemplating that January getaway from Texas that will take us to Mexico and provide for all our lodging, meal and entertainment needs in the process.

Now I just need to figure out how much in additional savings I can stack onto the already pretty fair rate.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Sign up for the FREE MouseSavers Newsletter and get a monthly email with exclusive discounts!

Facebook Twitter

Disney Cruise Discounts and Deals

LAST UPDATE: 4/22/24

Disney Cruise discounts can be hard to find, but this is the place to find them! Listed below is every known deal, offer, coupon, onboard credit or discount available for Disney Cruise Line (DCL), plus lots of FREE information about how to save money on a Disney cruise!

Easy Ways to Save on Your Disney Cruise

Onboard credit.

• New! Last-Minute Restricted Stateroom Discounts

Onboard Booking Discount

• Discounts for Florida Residents
• Discounts for Military
• Discounts for Canadian Residents
• Discounts for European Residents
• Discounts for Annual Passholders
• Discounts for Southern California Residents
• Discounts for UK and Ireland Residents
• Discounts for Disney Visa Cardholders
• Discounts for Disney Vacation Club Members

Group Incentives

Costco rebates, travelocity deals on disney cruises, expedia deals on disney cruises, other useful disney cruise line information pages:.

• For tips and tricks that will help you plan your cruise , visit the Planning Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruises page .
• For advice that will help you save time and get the most out of your cruise once you are onboard , visit the DCL Onboard Advice page .
• For advice that will help you with excursions, tours and activities while in port, visit the Tips & Discounts for Port Excursions page .

In our opinion,  you should always book a Disney cruise with a third-party travel agency or site that provides a bonus or discount . The extra onboard credit or discount is effectively FREE money. The primary question is whether you prefer to handle your bookings directly ( self-service ), or work with a personal agent ( full-service ). They’re both good options and they both offer essentially similar savings: one via their own extra-discounted fares and the other via FREE onboard credit. 

Booking a Disney Cruise With a Self-Service Site

Our pick for self-service booking is Undercover Tourist . We’ve recommended them for more than a decade as a fantastic source for tickets, but they also have impressive deals on Disney cruises. Unlike other self-booking options like Expedia or Priceline, Undercover Tourist adds an additional discount over and above any special pricing Disney offers (like restricted guarantee , Military , or Florida resident rates)! We know of no other site that adds their own discounts to the baseline fare for Disney cruises. Occasionally one of the big online travel sites will do a limited-time small onboard credit or in-room gift, but Undercover Tourist offers extra discounts , on every Disney cruise, every day. Undercover Tourist further guarantees to MouseSavers readers that you will always get their lowest possible prices when booking through our links here and through our monthly newsletter and Hot Deals emails.

Keep in mind that this is a self-service option , for people who know exactly what cruise they want to take, what stateroom, how dining works, etc. If you like to handle your own bookings directly, Undercover Tourist is a great choice. If you would like to have a personal agent who can help guide you through the decision process and be available to answer questions, then the full-service approach will be a better fit.

• Check out Undercover Tourist’s discounted cruise rates for Disney Cruise Lines ! Undercover Tourist guarantees MouseSavers readers get their lowest rates!

Booking a Disney Cruise With a Full-Service Agent

The benefits of using a top travel agent are significant, both in convenience and price. First off, the best travel agents give you onboard credit, which is effectively FREE money, since the cruise fare isn’t any higher than if you booked through Disney. Furthermore, Disney Cruise Line has lots of confusing options involving tradeoffs that aren’t always clear. Using an experienced travel agent is like getting a FREE expert who knows everything about the Disney Cruise Line and is happy to walk you through the process and offer advice.

The travel agency we personally recommend here on MouseSavers.com, Small World Vacations , has some of the most experienced agents in the industry . The agents who handle cruise bookings for Small World have been on multiple Disney cruises, and know a truly astonishing amount about all four ships, the various Disney ports of call and all the common itineraries (and many uncommon ones). Many of them are Platinum members of Disney’s Castaway Club, meaning that they have personally been on 10 or more Disney cruises! They each have a direct phone number and email address they give out to their clients, so you can email them questions or requests any time.

Small World Vacations offers an onboard credit of up to $1,000 when you book a Disney Cruise with them. (Credit depends on your total cruise fare; the minimum fare to get credit is $1000.) Your onboard credit is good toward anything you can charge to your room, such as spa treatments, special dining, shore excursions or even your bar tab! Plus, this onboard credit offer is on top of any other discounts for which you may qualify (like restricted guarantee , Military , or Florida resident rates). And perhaps most importantly, the Small World Vacations agents know how to maximize value by making use of tricks like secret porthole rooms , secret verandah rooms , secret connecting rooms , and other clever strategies.

We pretty rarely encounter a deal that qualifies as a “no brainer,” but this is absolutely one, because it’s effectively FREE money . Small World Vacations’ fares are exactly the same as Disney’s; there are no other hidden markups or extra fees. The onboard credit is a bonus you won’t get booking with Disney.

Finally, if you’re going on a Disney cruise, be sure you take advantage of the onboard booking discount and list Small World Vacations as your preferred travel agent (or transfer the booking to Small World Vacations after your cruise is over), because it’s an essentially risk-free way to get significant discounts from Disney plus onboard credit from Small World Vacations in one fell swoop on a future cruise.

If you have any questions about onboard booking, email your questions directly to Small World Vacations at [email protected] before you leave on your cruise, and mention that you heard about onboard booking on MouseSavers.com. In our experience, the travel agents at Small World Vacations are great at finding the best fares. They know all the tricks that will save you money, and they know the Disney Cruise Line inside and out. We’re confident that once you work with a really great travel agent, you’ll never want to book a cruise any other way.

• Learn more about the Small World Vacations onboard credit offer and request a price quote for your Disney cruise .
• Small World Vacations gives you full service , including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly ! Best of all, it costs you nothing to use them, PLUS they give you FREE onboard credit for any Disney Cruise Line booking of over $1000 total fare!

Onboard credit is cash value linked to your stateroom account on the ship, which you can spend by using your room key to pay for pretty much anything on the ship or on Castaway Cay. Onboard credit can be used for merchandise, adult beverages, bottled water, spa treatments, shore excursions, Palo, Remy, Palo Steakhouse or Enchanté meals, and other onboard activities, or even applied to gratuities for your servers and stateroom attendant.

Small World Vacations Onboard Credit

The travel agency we personally recommend here on MouseSavers.com, Small World Vacations , offers an onboard credit of $50 – $1000 when you book through them. (Credit depends on your total cruise fare; the minimum fare to get credit is $1000.) To learn more, visit the Small World Vacations website , where you can see full details about the onboard credit offer and request a quote on your cruise vacation .

Last-Minute Restricted Stateroom Discounts

Restricted Guarantee fares, when offered, are a great way to save if you are flexible about your stateroom location and willing to book “last minute,” usually meaning 21-75 days prior to departure. The savings can be very large, but you won’t know your exact stateroom at booking time. Disney guarantees you will get at least the stateroom type specified, and you could get assigned a higher level. You usually will get an actual stateroom assignment about 14 days before embarkation, but it could be assigned as late as the embarkation day.

There are complicated rules for Restricted Guarantee bookings ; be sure to read them if you’re not already familiar with them. The “Restricted Guarantee” room categories are offered on select sailings. The categories are:

• Guaranteed Inside Stateroom with Restrictions (category IGT) – Guarantees an inside or better stateroom (minimum category 11C)
• Guaranteed Oceanview Stateroom with Restrictions (category OGT) – Guarantees an oceanview or better stateroom (minimum category 9D)
• Guaranteed Verandah Stateroom with Restrictions (category VGT) – Guarantees a verandah or better stateroom (minimum category 7A)

New! As of April 22, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Restricted Guarantee categories . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise.

General Notes:

• A single guest gets charged essentially the same price as two guests. (Cruises are generally priced for a minimum of two guests per cabin.)
• 5-passenger rooms are not available with this discount .
• These discounts come and go as room inventory for a cruise changes. If you check for one and it doesn’t come up, it may come back. It’s worth checking back a few times over the next day or two to see if the discount becomes available again.
• If a price isn’t listed, that doesn’t mean the category is completely sold out , just that it isn’t available with this discount.

Select number of guests to see total sailing price (for one stateroom):

• If you are interested in booking one of these special restricted last-minute rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.
• Small World Vacations is a full service agency, offering a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number. It costs you nothing to use them, PLUS their FREE onboard credit offer applies to these special fares (the total cruise fare for the stateroom must be at least $1000 to get their onboard credit). 
• Undercover Tourist is a self-service booking site similar to Expedia or Priceline, but with years of focus on the Disney travel market. They offer the special rates mentioned above PLUS they add their own discounts. 

Important details you need to know about Restricted Guarantee fares:

• Can be combined with the Small World Vacations onboard credit offer as well as Undercover Tourist’s own bonus discounts.
• Cannot be combined with any other Disney discount or promotional offers.
• The specific stateroom is assigned by Disney, generally within a week of cruise departure. You cannot select a stateroom number or make special requests as to stateroom location.
• If you book two or more Restricted Guarantee staterooms, there is no way to ensure that they are near each other, or even on the same deck. Disney will put the rooms as close together as they can, but sometimes they just don’t have any rooms left that are near each other.
• Applies to new bookings only. Existing reservations cannot be modified to these new categories.
• Full payment is due at time of booking. Booking holds are not permitted.
• Reservation is non-refundable . (This only applies to situations where you cancel the cruise. If Disney cancels the cruise, for example because of pandemic restrictions, you will get a refund.)
• Reservation and applied payment are non-transferable .
• Full legal names and birthdates for all stateroom occupants are required at time of booking.
• Name changes after booking are not allowed .
• Sail date, stateroom category and cruise itinerary changes are not allowed .
• You can book a maximum of four people per stateroom on a Restricted Guarantee booking.
• There is typically more availability for three or fewer guests per room. All Disney Cruise staterooms can hold three guests, but only some can hold four.
• If you’re looking for these cruise fares on Disney’s web site, look for fares labeled “Guaranteed Inside Stateroom with Restrictions” or similar for Oceanview or Verandah. The key words are “…with restrictions.”

The one major change that you can make after booking: additional guests can be added to a stateroom, subject to space restrictions. Restrictions and booking rules are subject to change.

If you are going on a Disney cruise and think there is any chance you or a friend or relative may want to go on another Disney cruise in the next 24 months, be sure to book a future cruise while you are still onboard the ship . Disney has one of the most generous onboard booking programs in the cruise industry, and it’s a great way to get a discount and lower deposit on a future Disney cruise. When you book a future cruise while still onboard the ship you get all of the following benefits:

• A 10% discount on the final cruise fare (with some blackout dates ; see below). Does not apply to Concierge bookings.
• A lower deposit requirement of only 10% on 7+ night cruises (regular deposit requirement is 20%). Does not apply to Concierge bookings.
• If you booked your current cruise with Small World Vacations and also use them as your agent for the future cruise , you’ll also get half their normal onboard credit . (Note that if you didn’t book your current cruise with Small World Vacations, the onboard booking agents may not let you add Small World as your agent while onboard. In that case, you would have to transfer your booking to Small World after you get home, but you would still be eligible for half their normal credit.)

You can book either a specific cruise or a “placeholder” cruise. A placeholder lets you make a booking without picking a specific cruise. It can be associated with a specific cruise later, after you get home and decide. To book a specific cruise onboard, you put down a deposit of 10% or 20% of the whole fare, depending on the length of the cruise. To book a placeholder, you put down a flat $250 deposit per future stateroom. When you change a placeholder to a specific cruise booking you’ll have to pay any increase in deposit. Keep in mind, there is an advantage to booking a specific cruise as early as possible: you lock in the rate. So, if there is a cruise you might want to take, it’s a good idea to book that specific cruise rather than a placeholder. Even if you’re not 100% sure that’s your perfect cruise, remember you can change it later with no penalty.

If you ultimately decide not to take a cruise, Disney will refund 100% of your deposit or placeholder payment . You always get a 100% refund as long as you haven’t passed the penalty date (120-75 days from sailing, depending on the cruise), and you didn’t book a concierge room or suite. There’s basically no risk, though it does tie up some deposit money while you think about your options.

You can change almost every aspect of your booking as many times as you need to and still keep the benefits . The name of one adult in each stateroom must stay the same, but you can change the names of any of the other guests, or increase or reduce the number of guests. You can change the stateroom category. You can change the ship or the sailing as long as the sail date is within 24 months of the initial booking date. If you end up changing to a more expensive booking, you’ll need to make up the difference between your original deposit and the new deposit. Keep in mind that if you later add a guest to a stateroom, they will get added at current rates, not at your initial booking rates. For the lowest final price and most flexibility, it’s a good idea to make the initial booking with everyone who might go, rather than only the people you know are going to go.

You get the full discount for up to two future staterooms or placeholders per household (i.e. per mailing address). Once you leave the ship, you can’t book more , so we recommend booking two (or more) every time, if you can afford to tie up the deposit money. If you later decide that you want to bring another family along, or put the kids in their own stateroom, you’ll be glad to have two rooms booked with the discount.

You can get the full discount for friends or relatives who are not sailing on your cruise. You’ll need your friends’ full legal names (as written on their passport) and their birth dates. Under the current rules, the first stateroom or placeholder you book with this discount on the future cruise needs to include at least one adult who is on the current cruise, in addition to anyone else you want to add, and then the second stateroom can have anyone in it. For example, say you wanted to book a cruise for your friends, the Smith family. You could book one room for your own family, then book the second room (on the same cruise) for the Smith family.

If you already have a future cruise booked, you can usually “re-shop” your existing booking and get the discount. However, you basically have to make a new booking and cancel the old one, and the price might have gone up since you booked originally, potentially wiping out your discount. Be sure to compare the bottom-line price for both bookings.

A few other terms & conditions:

• There is no discount or lower deposit for 1- or 2-night sailings, IGT, OGT and VGT Restricted Guarantee bookings, or concierge staterooms and suites.
• You can get the 10% discount and reduced deposit on a maximum of two staterooms per household.
• Onboard booking incentives CANNOT be combined with any group discounts organized by a travel agency.
• Disney could change these rules and benefits at any time. Check onboard for the latest terms.

Onboard Discount Blackout Dates:

Please note: there is no 10% discount when you book the following holiday and peak dates onboard (but you do get the smaller deposit):

• Disney Dream : 3/31, 11/23, 11/27, 12/21, 12/26, 12/30
• Disney Fantasy : 3/23, 3/30, 6/8, 11/23, 12/22, 12/26, 12/29
• Disney Magic : 6/6, 11/25, 12/29
• Disney Treasure : 12/21, 12/28
• Disney Wish : 3/25, 3/29, 4/1, 11/25, 12/23, 12/27, 12/30
• Disney Wonder : ( none announced yet )
• Disney Dream : ( none announced yet )
• Disney Fantasy : ( none announced yet )
• Disney Magic : ( none announced yet )
• Disney Treasure:  ( none announced yet )
• Disney Wish : 4/14, 4/18, 4/21
• The full legal names of everyone who is going to go on the future cruise, as listed on their passport or birth certificate
• The number of rooms you want to book and what type ( inside, outside, verandah or placeholder )
• Who’s in each room ( keeping in mind the maximum passengers for each room type )
• Specific cruises you’re interested in, if you plan to book a cruise and not a placeholder ( or just rough notes with your needs/restrictions like dates or region )
• Birth dates for everyone ( optional, but makes everything go smoother )
• Bring the info with you on the cruise. If you just want to book a basic placeholder, you can do that while on the cruise with the Disney Navigator App on your phone (if you don’t already have it, just search for “Disney Navigator” in the Apple or Google app stores; you can download it before the cruise leaves to save time). If you want to do anything more complicated you’ll need to talk to a consultant at the future cruise desk.
• If you can’t or don’t want to use the the Navigator app, at some point early in the cruise, go to the Future Bookings Desk on deck 4 and either fill out a form, or just put your room number and name on the sheet you brought (if it has all the details on it they’ll need) and drop it in the box. You can also wait for a consultant if they’re there, or check the schedule and come back when they’re scheduled to be there. If you drop off a form, they’ll secure a hold on a reservation and leave a printout by your stateroom door. If the reservation looks good, either go back to the desk to finish the booking or call 7-2848 from your stateroom phone. Either way, when the booking is done ask for a printed confirmation of your final reservation.
• Before you leave the ship, confirm that everything is correct . You should have a printed confirmation or an emailed confirmation. The confirmation should show that your deposit is paid (if not, the booking will be canceled). If this isn’t on your confirmation, go to the Future Bookings Desk or Guest Services and make sure everything is correct. If you are working with a travel agent, verbally confirm that they are listed on the reservation before you leave the ship.
• That’s it! If you booked a “placeholder” cruise, you can start the process of finding your actual cruise. If you are using a travel agent , email them to let them know you booked onboard. Once you’ve settled on the cruise you really want to take, change the booking as soon as you can to the actual sailing date to lock in the lowest possible fares and get the best choice of staterooms.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Florida Residents

As of April 22, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Florida Resident category . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for Florida residents , but they do show up occasionally.

Other stateroom categories may be available at other rates. Rates are per adult, based on double occupancy. Occupancy restrictions may apply. Excursions are not included. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Other discounts do not apply. Only one discount may be used at a time. Rates in US dollars.

A copy of a valid proof of Florida residency for at least one adult in each stateroom needs to be transmitted (via fax or email) within 48 hours when booking with the Florida rate, and the same proof will need to be produced at check-in. The other guests in each stateroom do not need to be Florida residents.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Florida resident rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts For Military

Members of the US military and their families qualify for special cruise rates.

As of April 22, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Military category . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for military members , but they do show up occasionally.

Valid for new bookings only. Other stateroom categories may be available at other rates. Rates based on double occupancy. Occupancy restrictions may apply. Excursions are not included. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Other discounts do not apply. Only one discount may be used at a time. Rates in US dollars. The following are eligible for the Military rate: active duty or retired military; 100% disabled retired military; reservists for National Guard and Army Reserve with active duty orders (active duty papers must be dated as of January 1st of the previous year to qualify); Department of Defense personnel.

Military personnel may book one stateroom under the military rates program. A second stateroom may be confirmed, if needed, to accommodate immediate family members only. For example, a family of two adults and four children may confirm two staterooms, based on availability, with the offer. Extended family (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) do not qualify as immediate family members for the second stateroom. Active duty or retired military personnel and 100% permanently disabled veterans do not have to travel as long as their spouse has a valid military ID to show at the port. Reservists must be part of the travel party and must show ID at the port.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Military rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Canadian Residents

Canadian residents sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line.

As of April 22, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Canadian Resident category . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for Canadian residents , but they do show up occasionally.

Select number of guests to see total sailing price:

Proof of Canadian residency will be required at time of check-in (your passport is fine).

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Canadian resident rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts for European Residents

European (EEA) residents sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line. When they become available we list them below.

No current offers.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Annual Passholders

Walt Disney World Annual Passholders sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line. When they become available we list them below.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Southern California Residents

Southern California residents (ZIP codes 90000 to 93599) sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line.

Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for Southern California residents , but they do show up occasionally.

A copy of a valid proof of Southern California residency (ZIP codes 90000 to 93599) for at least one adult in each stateroom needs to be transmitted (via fax or email) within 48 hours when booking with the Southern California rate, and the same proof will need to be produced at check-in. The other guests in each stateroom do not need to be Southern California residents.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Southern California resident rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts for UK and Ireland Residents

There’s a useful site listing the latest Disney Cruise Line deals for UK visitors, plus a FREE phone number you can call to learn more and book your cruise!

• Learn more about UK offers for Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Disney Visa Cardholders

Disney Visa cardholders who use their card as their payment method onboard automatically get several discounts on purchases on the ship and on Castaway Cay. In order for this to happen, you have to register your Disney Visa card when you check in at the port. You do not need to charge the cruise fare on your Disney Visa to get the discounts.

You should not need to ask at purchase time to get the discounts; if you have the card registered any discounts should automatically be applied when you make an eligible purchase.

These discounts cannot be combined with any other discounts you might qualify for, such as Disney Vacation Club discounts.

Discounts include:

• 10% off selected merchandise purchases of $50 or more. Excludes sale merchandise, gift cards, Castaway Cay merchandise, DVDs, CDs, big-ticket items like art, jewelry, fragrances, cosmetics and watches, plus several vague catch-all categories like “selected special items.” Basically, ask first if you’ll get the 10% off, if it’s important to your purchase decision.
• 10% off 10-photo, 15-photo, 20-photo or unlimited photo packages.
• 10% off the Castaway Cay Getaway package (combination of snorkeling, bicycle and float or inner-tube rental).
• 20% off full-priced massage or facial treatment in the onboard spa while in port . This does not include massages on Castaway Cay or treatments discounted as part of onboard specials.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Disney Vacation Club Members

Dvc onboard spending discounts.

Disney Vacation Club members get several discounts on purchases onboard any Disney Cruise. You need to ask for the discount and show your Disney Vacation Club card at time of purchase.

This discount cannot be combined with any other discounts you might qualify for, such as Disney Visa discounts. DVC members who only own points purchased via resale after April 4, 2016 are not eligible for discounts, including this one.

• 10% off selected merchandise purchases of $50 or more.
• 10% off any digital photo package.

DVC Cruise Fare Discounts

The following cruises have discounts available for Disney Vacation Club members for up to 3 persons (some may also be available for 4 or 5). Prices given are base fares per person (Guest 1 & 2/Guest 3+). 3rd, 4th and 5th guest fares for children 12 and under will be lower. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise.

Other stateroom categories may be available at other rates. Rates are per adult, based on double occupancy. Occupancy restrictions may apply. Taxes, fees, port expenses and excursions are not included. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Other discounts do not apply. Only one discount may be used at a time. Rates in US dollars. Offer open only to Disney Vacation Club members.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Disney Vacation Club rates , we recommend filling out a quote form with Small World Vacations . They give you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly ! Best of all, it costs you nothing to use them, PLUS their FREE onboard credit offer applies to these special fares (though note that the total cruise fare must be at least $1000 to get their onboard credit). Be sure to tell them you want to book a Disney Vacation Club fare. You will need to fax or email proof of DVC membership to finalize the booking. Note that these staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Organizing your own group? Disney Specialist travel agents are adept at handling large groups and offer on-board credit and sometimes other incentives. Contact a Disney Specialist travel agency such as Small World Vacations for details. Remember, it costs you nothing to use them!

Costco members can get rebates on Disney cruises, which come in the form of a Costco gift card. However, Costco Travel is not a full-service travel agency: don’t expect much service or information.

In our experience, Costco reps are very nice, but don’t know much about Disney Cruise Line. They almost certainly have never been on a Disney cruise, and may have never been on a cruise of any kind. If you choose to go this route, be prepared to spend time and energy doing your own research about what your package includes and how everything works. Heaven help you if you need to book something complicated like connecting rooms or want to know the pros and cons of different stateroom options. Costco Travel most definitely won’t be able to offer any insider tips on what to expect or help you take advantage of special booking tricks or “secret” room upgrades. Effectively you’re just booking the cruise yourself, but through Costco instead of Disney.

In addition, we find the Costco reps are clueless about Disney’s promotional offers — they really only know about the Costco rebate. You will have to do your own monitoring to see if any specials or price drops come out, and then see if you can get them applied to your booking. A top-notch Disney specialist agency will do this for you automatically, adjusting your reservation to reflect any current offers or discounts.

Travelocity sometimes has special deals on Disney cruises. They are usually fairly last-minute offers, most typically no more than 6 months in advance. Travelocity also sometimes advertises “15% off shore excursions” but be aware that those are privately booked excursions through a company called Port Promotions, NOT the official Disney excursions.

Expedia has the same base prices as everyone else, but occasionally they will have their own additional offer, like onboard credit or extra Expedia rewards points. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully; in some cases there are sharp limits on the extra rewards or credit, or it will only apply to the cruise fare for the first two guests instead of the entire cruise fare.

How to Become a Travel Agent and Work From Home

Do you love to travel? Are you a master at finding great travel deals?

Becoming a virtual travel agent might be your ideal work at home career path!

Working as a travel agent might seem a little outdated in today's world of Kayak and Airbnb, but in reality, many people still prefer to work with travel agents.

Experienced travel planners help travelers save money, time, and travel-related headaches.

Home-based travel agents generally work for a host agency (a company bonded and accredited by the Airlines Reporting Corporation or the International Airlines Travel Agents Network) as independent contractors.

As a travel agent, you'll earn a commission on the travel arrangements (flights, hotels, rental cars, travel excursions , and more) you book, and you'll often have access to special deals and travel discounts. You can choose to work in a particular niche, such as cruises or business travel, or work with clients looking into a specific type of travel (adventure, Disney vacations, eco-friendly, budget, or luxury travel).

One of the great things about becoming a work at home travel agent is that it's a relatively easy startup business idea, and the costs are low. With a basic home office (including an internet connection, a phone, computer, printer, and website), you can get started with a host agency.

So if you love to travel or if you love to help other people fulfill their vacation dreams, you may want to start a home-based travel agent business!

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Travel Agent?

The basic skills you'll need as a travel agent include attention to detail, excellent research and communication skills, high-level organizational skills, and a knowledge of geography and travel destinations. You'll also need to be tech-savvy and have a solid understanding of programs like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. 

If you're working as an independent contractor, the host company will usually train you; some host agencies charge a fee, while others do not. While there are travel agent certificate programs that you can take, you may be able to break into a travel role if you have customer service, hospitality, marketing, or sales experience under your belt.

Getting Started as a Work at Home Travel Agent

According to Host Agency Reviews, travel agents with three years of experience make an average of $46,400 per year . However, there are some travel agents making six figures per year. It all depends on your experience, the number of clients you retain, hours worked, and commission and support from your host agency.

Agents who work in specific markets or on particular vacation types (like destination weddings or luxury travel) can become very familiar with their market and, thus, enjoy even greater success. Working in particular markets, like weddings or corporate travel, can also make a big difference regarding salary.

Remote Travel Agent and Consultant Jobs

If starting your own business seems intimidating, many companies within the travel and hospitality industry hire at-home travel consultants, reservationists, and planners for full-time and part-time positions. Best of all, many of these positions come with travel perks!

To start, you may want to explore:

• American Express
• Kemp Travel Group
• Vail Resorts
• Working Solutions
• World Travel Holdings

Exploring Host Agencies

Finding a good host agency is key to getting started as an at-home travel agent. If you're just starting, you'll want to familiarize yourself with host agency options to get a feel for what each can offer.

• American Society of Travel Advisors
• Cruise Planners
• Disney Vacation Planner
• Dream Vacations Advisors
• Dugan's Travel

How to Select a Great Host Agency

When it comes to what they offer their consultants, travel agencies vary significantly. There are many factors to consider besides who offers the best commission.

For example, do you prefer a large agency or a small agency? Locally-based hosting can be easier for new agents who might need extensive support and training. On the other hand, national agencies may offer more flexibility and growth.

Carefully weigh your agency options and perform background research. Sites like Host Agency Reviews and Find a Host Travel Agency can help. They offer tips and ratings for finding the best travel agency that fits your needs.

Perks of Becoming a Travel Agent

Aside from being a fun business opportunity, being a travel agent offers some amazing perks .

If you enjoy travel, you might enjoy taking "FAM trips" or "familiarization trips" to various locales. Cruise lines, hotels, and tour guides know the best way for you to sell their services is for you to try them firsthand. So they offer perks, including complementary and deeply discounted fares, as well as opportunities to use their services and explore all your amazing options.

You can also save big on your own travel with great discounts! You'll score awesome deals before anyone else even hears about them. As a travel agent, you'll have access to discounts because, of course, the more you travel, the more business experience you rack up.

The best part? You can deduct those travel expenses from your taxes as part of your business! You can also deduct things like advertising and expenses related to your clients. This amounts to big tax savings for you!

Other Ways to Make Money in the Travel Industry

If you love the idea of working and traveling, but you're unsure about becoming a travel agent or consultant, there are many other options available.

Traveling to another country as an Au Pair is a great option if you enjoy working with children. When you work as an Au Pair, you'll live with a family, helping them with household chores and childcare. In return, you'll get free room and board and a small stipend that you can use on your days off. Being an Au Pair allows you to experience life in another country for an extended period of time. Becoming an Au Pair does come with some fees you'll need to pay, such as your flights, travel visa, and insurance.

Customer Service Representative

Customer service is an excellent way to break into the travel industry and work from home! Many companies provide full training for these roles as well as a host of benefits. You can work for airlines, hotels, cruise lines, travel booking sites, and other travel-related sites and industries. For these work from home positions, you'll generally need your own device (laptop or computer) and a high-speed internet connection. Check out this article for a list of hospitality companies that hire remote customer service reps.

ESL Teacher

You've probably heard of being an online ESL tutor , but did you know you can travel to another country to teach English as a second language? Most countries require ESL teachers to have a bachelor's degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Like being an Au Pair, there will be fees for your flights, travel visa, and insurance. Depending on which host company you use and which country to travel to, your housing may be free or purchased at a reduced cost. How much you can earn will vary as well. For more information on traveling and making money as an ESL tutor, check out the resources below.

• EF (Education First)
• International TEFL Academy

Local Coordinator

If you enjoy working with high school and college students, consider becoming a local coordinator . In these independent contracting roles, you'll work with educational organizations and programs to place and mentor students interested in foreign exchange programs. These part-time positions are a flexible and easy way to make extra money from home. Some programs also offer incentive trips and perks for their local coordinators.

Social Media Marketer Specializing in Travel

Do you love to travel and you're looking for ways to earn money from home, there are plenty of opportunities to take your travel beyond Instagram snaps and shares on Facebook… but if you're really great at social media, you could also become a social media manager in the travel industry! Many of these positions allow you to work from home for a travel-based company, sharing posts and connecting with their customers.

If you prefer to create your own schedule and be your own boss, become a local tour guide! With this idea, you'll need to be in the know about the food, culture, and history of the area you're helping tourists explore. With apps like  Showaround  and  Viator , you can create your tour, book customers, and make money from your travel expertise. You can also look at local tour operators and see if they have any openings for tour guides. Explore this article for more tips on making money as a tour guide .

Travel Writer

Magazines, guidebooks, and websites are often looking for freelance travel writers to contribute their experiences and give readers recommendations. If you have writing and communication skills and you travel often, this might be an excellent option for you.

The income for travel writers varies greatly, but many writers make great money by documenting and sharing their travels. Travel writers, according to ZipRecruiter , earn an average of $24 per hour. I think these numbers sound high, but I wasn't able to find any other stats for how much travel writers really earn.

Travel Blogger

If you prefer to write and document your own travels, start a travel blog ! With blogging, you can make money with affiliate marketing, ad networks, sponsorships, product sales, and more! The great thing about blogging is it's affordable and easy to set up, and there are many free ways to promote your content through social media. My friend, Julie Bonner, has a travel blog where she documents her family's RV travels. In one year, she was able to generate $5,000 a month from her blog, all while traveling the United States and Canada.

Travel Influencer

Have you been documenting your travels on social media? Then make money while traveling the world as a social media travel influencer. Whether your specialty is Instagram , Pinterest, TikTok , or YouTube , you can earn good money through paid sponsorships, advertising, and affiliate marketing. Besides building an engaged audience of followers, you'll need to become skilled at taking photos and videos, editing, and writing captions. How much you can earn as a travel influencer will depend on how many followers you have, your reach, your engagement, and which platforms you're using. According to this article in Vogue , a travel influencer with 1-4 million followers can earn $31,000 per post!

Travel Nurse

If you're a registered nurse , you can sign up to become a travel nurse. These nurses travel to areas where there are nursing shortages in work in a wide variety of settings. Nurses typically work in one location for 13-16 weeks, then move on to another location. Not only is travel nursing a great way to see the country, but it's also lucrative. The average travel nurse can earn $59.66 per hour plus housing stipends. If you're interested in travel nursing, check out these sites for assignments.

If you have a passion for travel, there are many ways you can earn money working in the travel industry. From becoming a work at home travel agent to finding ways to document and share your own travel experiences—there's an opportunity for every traveler out there. Explore your options and pack your suitcase! Check out this post if you're looking for ways to make money while you travel the world!

Holly Reisem Hanna is the Founder and Publisher of the award-winning career website  The Work at Home Woman.