is being a part time travel agent worth it

• 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 Travel Agent: Turn Your Passion Into Perks and Cash

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 .

Raise your hand if you love to travel. Whether you’re often on the road or take a vacation just once a year, you’ve probably heard of travel agents. These folks help plan and book itineraries for you, eliminating a lot of the pain points when it comes to traveling.

These days many people skip out on a travel agent in lieu of booking their trip online, but if you’re a frequent traveler, you may want to become a travel agent yourself. Why? Because it can save you a lot of money — and may even earn you some in the process.

Let’s take a look at how to become a travel agent, why it’s something you may want to consider and the ways it can work for you.

Why become a travel agent?

Have you ever obsessively researched the best hotels in a city you’re planning to visit? How about checking seat maps on an airplane? If getting into the nitty-gritty of travel logistics is something you do in your spare time, you might also enjoy becoming a travel agent.

Not only do you get to plan trips for others, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of special discounts on many facets of travel.

This is true for your clients, but also for yourself. Travel agents have access to a variety of discounted rates on both airlines and hotels, even when booking travel for themselves.

» Learn more: How to get a refund from a travel agency

How to become a travel agent

Find a program.

Becoming a travel agent isn’t as simple as declaring yourself one. Typically, the first step is to sign up for a program that’ll teach you the basics of running your own travel business.

There are a variety of programs to choose from, depending on your interests and career goals. Most programs will teach you about the business side of being a travel agent as well as how to plan trips, so your courses in itinerary planning and travel insurance will be coupled with business ethics and customer service.

If you’re wondering how to become a travel agent from home, don’t worry. Many of these courses don’t have to be done in person; there are online programs that will teach you everything you need to know from the comfort of your living room.

Apply for certification

Once you’ve completed your coursework, you’ll want to apply for certification. Although there is no single standard that designates you a travel agent, there are a number of different identifiers that you can acquire. Some of the more common ones are:

International Air Transport Association, or IATA, which allows you to book travel on domestic and international airlines.

Travel Industry Designator Service, or TIDS, which allows agents to book trips with a variety of travel suppliers and receive commissions.

Cruise Lines International Association, or CLIA, which provides agents the ability to book trips on cruises around the world.

In order to access Marriott’s travel advisor rates, for example, you can use any three of these designations, along with a variety of others.

Each of these associations and identifiers have different implications for your business, so you’ll want to be sure you’ve fully researched them before applying for membership.

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

Save money as a travel agent

Once you’ve qualified as a travel agent, what comes next? If you travel frequently, becoming a travel agent can be a huge benefit to you, as it offers discounted rates and access to luxury travel options.

Discounted rates

Travel agents have access to negotiated rates that aren’t available to the general public. The exact amount will vary depending on the business. Hilton, for example, will give personal travel discounts of 50% off at newly-opened hotels and up to 25% off at the remainder of hotels within Hilton’s portfolio.

Hyatt, meanwhile, will give you a discount on personal travel of up to 50%, but only during select dates of the year. And although not all airlines give discounts to travel agents, many do.

Regardless, these are some pretty spectacular savings, and if you’re looking to save money on your vacations, being a travel agent can help.

Luxury programs

Becoming a travel agent isn’t only about saving money, however. It also grants you access to many hotel chains’ luxury travel programs.

If you’re big into elite status benefits, this is definitely something you’ll want to consider — especially since you don’t need any status at all to receive these perks, as long as you book through the hotel’s agent portal.

Most major hotel chains have these programs, including Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS & Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Belmond Bellini Club, Rosewood Elite, Mandarin Oriental Fan Club and Shangri-La Luxury Circle.

While benefits vary by brand, many of these offers include things like room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, early check-in or late checkout and credits for expenses like dining or spa services. General consumers aren’t eligible for these programs, but once you’ve become a registered travel agent, they become accessible to you; however, some programs — such as Hyatt Privé — are invitation only.

For the most part, booking rooms through these programs shouldn’t cost more than the standard rate you’d be paying anyway, so you have the potential to get big benefits without shelling out any additional money.

However, note that these numbers don’t take into account any other discounted rates for which you may be eligible, such as those offered to American Automobile Association members and veterans .

» Learn more: Uncommon tips for saving money on travel

Earn money as a travel agent

Of course, becoming a travel agent isn’t all about scoring discounts for yourself. If you’re looking to earn some money, being a travel agent can be a good way to do so.

Note that travel agents operate in a customer-facing role, so you’ll also need to be able to build client relationships and be comfortable with sales. Courses such as those mentioned above can help train you to do this and run a successful business.

If booking travel and organizing trips for others is something that appeals to you, there’s definitely money to be earned. Marriott, for example, gives agents a commission of between 8% and 10% for all eligible stays booked.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of booking through online travel agencies

If you’d like to become a travel agent

There are a few good reasons to become a travel agent, especially if you travel a lot. Although it takes time and effort to complete training and apply for accreditation, the benefits you’ll receive as a travel advisor can be significant. This is true whether you’re booking personal travel or have built yourself a client base. Either way, there’s money to be had — and saved.

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-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.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

28 Major Pros & Cons Of Being A Travel Agent

“ The whole concept of the travel agent is absurd. They appear to be agents of the traveler but are actually agents of the airlines. “

Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Businessman

Pros and Cons of Working as a Travel Agent

You think about becoming a travel agent but are not sure whether this career path is good for you or not? Great!

Stick with me since I will show you all the pros and cons of being a travel agent in the following so that you can better decide whether you want to become a travel agent or if you rather want to go for a different job option instead.

Table of Contents

Travel Agent Job Profile

Advantages of being a travel agent, working as a travel agent is not that stressful, you can make people happy, you can get new ideas for your own vacation, travel agents may get discounts on flights, stays and trips, you can improve your soft skills, travel agents can work indoors, you can talk to many different people, you can start a travel blog, travel agents don’t work many extra hours, you don’t have to work on weekends, you may be able to travel the world, travel agents have a decent work-life balance, travel agents can make decent money, you can start your own travel agency, you don’t need a college degree for becoming a travel agent, you can avoid student loan debt, travel agents can become independent rather soon.

One advantage of being a travel agent is that your job will simply not be as stressful as working in many other fields.

Yes, from time to time, you will have demanding clients who will do everything to annoy you and who will just never be satisfied.

You may also have to handle many clients at the same time during busy periods of the years.

However, you will still have a relatively comfortable and relaxed workday most of the time and this means that while other people are on fire at work 100% of their time, you will be able to enjoy nice little breaks on a regular basis and will also have enough time to chat with your colleagues.

Chances are that you will also have sufficient energy after work to meet up with your favorite people while many other people out there will be happy to just sit on their couches since they are so tired from working in their jobs.

Hence, becoming a travel agent can be great for you in case you don’t want to have a stressful job but rather want to have sufficient energy to spend on the things you like more than work.

As a travel agent, you will also play a quite important role in the lives of many people.

Since vacation trips are the highlights of the year for many people out there, it will be in your hands to make those trips as enjoyable as possible.

Thus, good travel agents can really make a difference in the quality of life of numerous people and you should not underestimate how important you will be for the success of those trips.

Consequently, you should also consider becoming a travel agent if you want to make the lives of people better while earning money at the same time.

Another upside to working as a travel agent is that you can also get many new ideas for your own travels.

Opportunities regarding traveling are almost endless, yet you might not know many of them yet.

In fact, travel companies always invent new things you can do on your travels and if you work as a travel agent, you will be one of the first people who get to know those things.

This not only means that you will be one of the first people who can try out those new activities, but you can also inform your family and friends about those new attractions and your loved ones will be quite happy since they will get additional ideas of what to do when it comes to their vacation plans.

Many travel agents also enjoy discounts on many things related to vacation.

For instance, as a travel agent, you may be able to book flights at a lower price and may also have to pay less for a stay in your favorite hotel. You may even get discounts on trips.

Especially if you have a big family, this can add up to significant amounts of money and I am sure you know many nice things you could buy from the saved money from your vacation trips.

Hence, while your base salary may not be that high as a travel agent, you can still save some money on vacation and this means that you will get additional implied income from your job.

By working as a travel agent, you will also have many different clients.

While some of them will be nice and polite, others will just be difficult and demanding.

This means that you will always have to improve your people skills and learn how to deal with these difficult people to stay successful in the long run.

While this can be annoying, it also gives you the opportunity to develop important character traits and to grow as a character in general.

In turn, you will be able to use those skills not only at work, but on many other occasions in your private life.

Another benefit of becoming a travel agent is that you will be able to work indoors.

While many people take this for granted, you shouldn’t!

There are still many people who have to work outdoors during bad weather and this can be really annoying and also potentially risky for your health.

By working indoors, you as a travel agent can make your work life as comfortable as possible and can even use heating or air conditioning to optimize your work environment while garbage collectors and many other people will sweat or feel cold outdoors.

As a travel agent, you will also be able to talk to many different people.

Good travel agents realize that their level of success in this field not only depends on the tours they have to offer, but also greatly on how they treat their customers.

If clients feel well in a travel agent office, they are far more likely to buy trips, flights and other things.

Hence, becoming a travel agent can be great for you in case you are the type of extroverted person who loves to talk to people all day long and who can give them a good feeling in general.

As a travel agent, you may not only make money from your day job.

If you know a little bit about digital marketing and are also willing to expand your knowledge in this field, you may be able to start your own travel blog and to make serious money from it.

Sure, this will not be an overnight project.

You would have to put in lots of work and it will likely take you several years to get to this point.

Yet, if you are willing to work hard and work on the weekends and before or after work, chances are that you will get to a point where you can quit your day job and solely rely on your income from your travel blog.

Sure, you could also just keep your job and enjoy an additional passive income stream from your blog.

Hence, working as a travel agent can also help you become financially independent sooner or later and this can be great since it gives you the opportunity to work less and to enjoy the nice things in life instead.

Employed travel agents will also not have to work that many hours.

In fact, most travel agents don’t work more than 40 hours a week and some of them even work significantly less.

This means that you will have enough time to spend on your hobbies and that you will also not be as exhausted from work compared to someone who works 60 hours+.

Travel agents usually also don’t have to work on weekends.

Sure, there are exemptions to this rule and if you are really ambitious and want to get promoted as soon as possible, you may also have to put in the work on Saturday or Sunday.

Yet, most travel agents are able to enjoy free weekends and this gives you the opportunity to spend your weekend with your favorite people or with the things you love more than just work.

As a travel agent, you may also be able to travel the world.

Of course, this also greatly depends on the type of travel agent you are.

While many travel agents mainly do office work and work for a local travel agency, you may be able to travel the world in case you offer pretty specialized trips and there will be a need to be present in your even locations quite often.

Thus, becoming a travel agent can also help you travel the world for free while even making money at the same time.

Since you will usually enjoy free weekends and you will also not work more than 40 hours as a travel agent, you will be able to enjoy a pretty decent work-life balance.

In fact, most travel agents report that they have more than enough time for their hobbies or for meeting up with friends.

If you are really good at what you are doing, you will also be able to make pretty good money from working as a travel agent.

Sure, you will not make a fortune.

However, if you are a trustworthy person and know how to convince people, you will sell lots of vacation trips and this means that you will also get a commission for each trip.

In turn, your income will often increase with the number of trips you sell and if you are a really good seller, you may be able to earn more money than many other people with similar qualifications.

Becoming a travel agent can also be great for you in case you don’t want to work as an employee forever but rather want to have your own business sooner or later.

You could just work as a travel agent for a few years to gather some experience and to save some money and start your own specialized travel agency later on in your life.

Of course, this will not be easy and will also take quite a lot of work.

However, it is definitely possible to build a business in this field if you are willing to work hard and you are the entrepreneurial type of person who can’t just work for someone else for your whole life.

Another advantage of working in the travel industry is that you will also not need to get a college degree or any other sort of certification.

Sure, those degrees and certificates can help you with getting a job in this field.

Yet, they are not mandatory and many travel agents don’t have this fancy education.

What’s more important is that you are a polite, friendly and convincing person who can sell trips to your clients.

Since you will not have to go to college for becoming a travel agent, you can also avoid spending lots of money on tuition and other expenses related to college.

In turn, you will have a much more comfortable life later on since you will not have to pay back debt from student loans like many other people have to do in our current state of the world.

This also gives you more financial freedom to save and invest money or to buy your own home while many other people who have to pay back student loans will often struggle with those things.

Since you will earn money right after high school, you can also become independent of your parents rather quickly.

This is especially important in case you don’t have a good relationship with your parents and just want to get away from them as soon as possible.

As you can see, there are definitely many advantages to working in the travel industry.

Yet, we should also talk about all the issues that come along with it so that you get a more comprehensive view of what working as a travel agent really looks like.

Disadvantages of Working as a Travel Agent

You will be replaceable quite easily, travel agents have rather questionable future job prospects, you will not get rich as a travel agent, you may dream about vacations you will never be able to afford, you will not learn many hard skills as a travel agent, hard to work in different fields, travel agents can’t brag about their jobs, your clients may be difficult, travel agencies will have a hard time to compete, travel agents are away from home quite often, your income will depend on your selling skills.

One problem with being a travel agent is that you will be replaceable rather easily.

Since travel agents don’t need special qualifications in most parts of the world, there will be plenty of competition in this field and if someone comes along who is willing to work in this field for a lower wage, chances are that you will get fired pretty soon while programmers and many other people who are in high demand right now don’t have to worry much in this regard.

You should also not expect to have good future job prospects as a travel agent.

In fact, many people book their vacations over the internet instead of consulting a travel agent right now and this trend will likely continue in the future.

This means that you will become obsolete as a travel agent sooner or later and will have to search for work in a different field.

Hence, if job security is really important to you, you should likely not become a travel agent but rather go for a different career path instead.

While you can make decent money as a travel agent, you should know that you will just not get rich.

Thus, if money and luxury are really important to you and you urgently need many nice things to be happy, you should either go for a different career path or marry someone who has lots of money 😉.

Another downside to a career as a travel agent is that you will also see many nice vacations that you may urgently want to do but you will simply not be able to afford them.

In fact, it can be quite frustrating to present all those nice vacations to your clients while you know that you will never be able to do those nice trips yourself.

While you will become pretty good at dealing with people and can therefore greatly improve your soft skills thanks to your career as a travel agent, you will just not learn that many important hard skills.

This can not only be frustrating, but it also implies serious issues in case you no longer want to work as a travel agent since you will just not be prepared to compete in the job market.

Due to your lack of hard skills, it can indeed be pretty difficult to find a job in a different field.

In fact, many travel agents get stuck in this field and have to work as a travel agent for many years or even decades before they find another job from which they can pay their bills.

Travel agents also don’t have the highest social standing.

While people will appreciate your work if you sell them nice vacations, you will just not have the same social standing as people who work in fields where they can save lives.

Consequently, people may often belittle you since you are “just a travel agent” and you should make sure that you are able to deal with those snarky comments in an emotionally healthy manner.

Another disadvantage of becoming a travel agent is that you will also have to deal with difficult clients sooner or later.

While some people will be nice, others can be quite demanding and some of them even only try to bring you down.

If you deal with the last group of people, this can really stress your nerves and you need lots of patience to handle those people in a proper manner.

Since an increasing number of people will book their vacations themselves without a travel agency, your travel agency may also have a pretty hard time competing in the long run.

In the long run, you may become unemployed or your own travel agency may just become bankrupt.

If you work in a specialized niche as a travel agent, you may also have to travel quite a lot.

While some people love traveling, this also means that you will be away from home quite often and this can lead to all sorts of family problems.

Last but not least, you should also be aware of the fact that your income as a travel agent will not be independent of your performance.

In fact, a significant part of your income will depend on the number and the volume of vacation trips you sell to clients and if you are not a good seller, your income will be pretty low.

Top 10 Being a Travel Agent Pros & Cons – Summary List

Should you become a travel agent.

Now that you know all the advantages and disadvantages of being a travel agent, you should take an honest look in the mirror and ask yourself whether your personality profile fits the arguments made before.

You should definitely take your time to make a profound career choice since it can greatly determine how your life will look like in the future.

If you are still interested in becoming a travel agent, you should also get detailed information on salaries, job prospects, future outlook, working hours, educational requirements, duties and job satisfaction of travel agents .

Also make sure to check out the following articles:

Advantages and disadvantages of a career as an insurance agent

Advantages and disadvantages of a career as a banker

Advantages and disadvantages of a career as a day trader

https://www.statista.com/topics/1859/travel-agencies/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travel_agency

About the author

My name is Andreas and my mission is to educate people about the different career paths that are possible in our current state of the world. In my opinion, people often make the mistake to choose their profession solely based on how much money they can earn from it instead of doing what makes them really happy.

This is quite sad and I just want to give people a more objective picture of how a fulfilling career could look like. I did the same when I started working in consulting after finishing my Master’s degree in Economics. However, I’ve quit pretty soon after that since I haven’t found true meaning in my job.

Now I can do what I really love to do and I want to enable as many other people as well to go this exciting path towards happiness instead of money.

I conducted various interviews with employees to give you a good impression of what working in different fields will look like and that you can make the best possible decision regarding your future career choice.

Wanna support my blog? Share it!

Terms & Privacy Policy

Pin It on Pinterest

20 Pros and Cons of Being a Travel Agent

Are you considering a new or secondary career? Well, if becoming a professional travel agent is on your shortlist, then you’ve come to the right place to get all the information you need. While this wouldn’t have been a viable option 5 years ago, the travel agent profession is gaining traction as the world recovers from the great recession . The timing couldn’t be better for anyone looking to get started in this profession and experience great success.

If traveling is your passion or you love to assist others to plan their dream destinations, then being a travel agent might be the job for you. With this job, you can have the laptop lifestyle, get paid for what you love doing, help people make lasting memories, learn something new every day, and spend your working hours on a happy topic –vacations. You also don’t need any special training for a job that allows you to travel the world. However, being a successful travel agent is not a walk in the park. It requires commitment, passion, hard work, and a lot of stepping out of your comfort zone.

Read Also: 20 Pros and Cons of Being a Psychologist

Before making a final decision, it’s best to weigh the good and bad things about being a travel agent. Without further ado, let’s get started:

In this article you will find out:

10 Pros of Being a Travel Agent

1. Mobility

As a travel agent, your main job will be to sell travel to customers –how you do it is up to you . For instance, you can sell your Paris trip while in Paris or the comfort of your home. Some travel agents work from a call center, others work for travel companies that are based overseas, while some go freelance. This freedom of mobility allows travel agents to relocate, which makes it a great career path for expats.

Read Also: 20 Pros and Cons of Being a Pediatrician

2. Opportunity to travel the world

As a travel agent, it’s important to know the destinations you’re selling. You’ve probably heard of FAM trips . These are discounted trips intended to aid in research and familiarisation so you can sell the destination better. Most of them include an exhaustive itinerary so you can experience everything related to the destination. This makes you much more knowledgeable, not to mention, you’ll be brimming with facts that are more reliable to customers than what’s available online.

3. Travel like a millionaire

Most people work all year and save every dollar just so they can go on an annual vacation. Travel agents, on the other hand, can get free trips from airlines, hotel companies, tour operators, or governmental tourism boards. This is done with the hope that the agent will promote the destination, products, or services to their clients. Note that such trips are only offered to top-selling travel agents with a huge customer base, capable of bringing in business.

Read Also: 20 Pros and Cons of Being a Psychiatrist

4. Travel agents are still relevant

Travel is becoming a more popular activity, with millennials incorporating it into their life goals and budgets. You’ve probably heard that travel agents are a dying breed because of the internet, but nothing could be further from the truth. People get overwhelmed and confused with all the information available online that they aren’t sure which way to go. Those who are looking for an authentic experience abroad will pay to get insights from someone who’s actually been there. Also, travel agents personalize things, help with organizing complex itineraries, understand clients better, and have expert knowledge.

5. An opportunity to be your own boss

If you have the entrepreneurial skills, then being a travel agent is a viable choice. Nothing says work perk like not having a boss, right? Well, most of the people in this profession work as home-based travel agents –whether hosted or independent. Running your own business allows you to set your working hours, giving you extra time for work-life balance. You also get to reap the financial benefits of your efforts.

Read Also: 20 Pros and Cons of Being a Social Worker

6. You can work part-time

If you’re looking for a secondary job to earn additional income, then being a travel agent is worth considering. The flexible hours will allow you to keep your current job and build a customer base until you’re ready to go full-time. Even after going full-time, you can still have another occupation, especially during the low season when there aren’t many clients to handle.

7. Job variety

It’s impossible to have knowledge of the entire world; as such, you should take a more specialized route . You can choose to focus on African safaris, cruises, travel & tours for expats in your country, or travel for destination weddings and honeymoons to Hawaii, Fiji, the Caribbean, Paris, Rome, and so on. Being a travel agent is also a versatile occupation. As mentioned earlier, you can work from home, for a local travel agency, for big cooperation, or even while traveling yourself.

Read Also: 20 Pros and Cons Of Being A Police Officer

8. Potential to earn

Travel agents have the potential to have lucrative jobs. As an employed travel agent, you make money from commissions . Depending on the number of clients you pull in and their commission rate, you can earn more than what other entry-level employees in other professions make. It’s not unusual for a hard-working travel agent to make $80k or even $100k annually. Self-employed travel agents get to set their fees. You can take on extra clients if you want extra cash, or choose to say no to focus on work/life balance.

9. No degree or experience required

No skills or long, expensive courses are required to become a travel agent. A viable career path without all the schooling and student loan debts –who wouldn’t want that! There may be a few local jurisdictions that require certification, but that should take a couple of weeks to complete. Your host agency will provide the necessary training and tools to get started. Even so, it can be an added advantage if you know basic geography and history, and possess people skills.

Read Also: 20 Pros and Cons of Being a Preschool Teacher

10. An exciting job

Travel agents get to travel the world, meet people from all walks of life, and create some of the best experiences for others by bringing their travel dreams to life. The job requirement is also always changing with new destinations, activities, rules, and challenges. There’s no room for boredom when you’re surrounded by all this.

10 Cons of Being a Travel Agent

1. Demanding

This job is pretty much 24/ 7. You’ll have clients traveling abroad where time differences could mean being contacted in the middle of the night. Some clients are just difficult and will treat you like you’re their personal butler, calling you to resolve every small problem they have. Regardless, you need to be reachable at all times to ensure your clients are well taken care of. After all, getting that human touch is the added value of booking with a travel agent instead of doing it online.

2. Stressful

Travel agents experience stress from all corners. First, they must stay updated on all new traveling information as it develops such as the aftermath of a disaster. During the high season, agents handle many clients at once with different expectations and demands. Those who are employed are under a lot of pressure to meet sales expectations to avoid getting fired. Given that pay is based on commission, you have to push yourself harder to get paid more.

3. Limited progression

Most professions have several advancement opportunities . Unfortunately, when you are a travel agent, the much you can strive to become is a branch manager in your place of work. This is especially true if you work for a local travel agency. The only other means of progression is to get a job with a specific tour operator. The best way to be successful in this industry is to start your own business.

4. Uncertain market

When the economy is down or security concerns arise, the travel industry is the first to suffer . Travel agent jobs are also not recession-proof. People tend to travel less when they’re trying to cut back on spending. Travel agents must continually deal with all these uncertainties as they affect the number of people travelling. Since they get paid on commission, this market instability can affect one’s income.

5. Lack of job security

Travel agents are often assessed on performance . If your sales go down, your job might be in jeopardy. Also, discounted packages offered by online booking engines entice traveller more. This profession is always dodging extinction. As a travel agent, you must find niche markets and offer services that aren’t attainable in any other way.

6. You’ll constantly be away from home

This is especially true for those who are employed. Whether it’s to a FAM trip or a conference, being a travel agent means being dragged all over for education and events. These trips are sometimes sprung on you at the last minute, which forces you to cancel any personal plans you may have. However, if you don’t mind leaving your bed for a chance to mix and mingle with other professionals in some exotic resort, then this is not a con.

7. Exposure to customer lawsuits

Nowadays, customers who feel they’ve been wronged quickly turn to lawsuits to settle disputes. Many businesses and professions have been victims of large lawsuits, and the travel industry is no exception. A client may sue alleging misrepresentation or negligence. While it’s true that you can’t predict what will happen on a trip, remember you’re being paid to provide information and advice for travel. It’s important to have insurance to protect you financially in such scenarios.

8. You control your paycheck

Most professionals know exactly what they’ll get at the end of the month. This makes it possible to plan for financial responsibilities. We already mentioned that most travel agents get paid on commission. Your salary is likely to vary at the end of each month. While others do the bare minimum at work and get paid, you have to put in the effort to make as much. On the flip side, your hard work pays instantly.

9. Reputation

If you thought getting sued was bad, you haven’t seen what social media can do . In this digital age, people can share their bad experiences and dissatisfaction with your services on a large, public platform. While it’s common for small mishaps to occur, there are next-level blunders that can be very damaging. You can’t blame customers though. Booking a holiday is something many people wait for all year, not to mention, it’s a huge expense. Anything that jeopardises it can provoke a highly emotional reaction. To avoid all that, strive to offer stellar customer service.

10. A few players dominate the market

This is more of a challenge for the self-employed. The travel industry is very competitive and travel agents have to scramble for clients, considering many now prefer to book a holiday online. Just a handful of companies have a stranglehold on the industry. They have made a name for themselves and attract more clients than anyone else, sucking the life out of start-up agencies and smaller competitors.

How to Become a Travel Agent—Because, Believe It or Not, the Industry Is on the Rise

By Scott Bay

There’s a reason “how to become a travel agent” has been a continuously trending search phrase on Google—it is a career path that offers a flexible work environment and schedule, ample travel opportunities, and an immersion into a supportive world-wide industry. It's a surprise to some in 2023: Once the internet became widely available, it was largely believed that needing a travel agent was obsolete. However, even though the brick-and-mortar agencies with punny names in strip malls have vanished, the career is on-the-rise .

New software options are making it easier than ever for people to make money planning trips, either as a side hustle or as a full-time business. That’s why Cherikonda, India-based stay-at-home mother, Maya Kapoor-Miller, decided to enter the professional world as a travel agent this year, at 31. “I knew nothing about the travel industry prior to signing up,” says Kapoor-Miller, who decided to use San Francisco-based booking platform Dreamport to establish her online travel advisor business. “It is my first business in life, and the only one that you can start with no investment.”

But there's also a rise in demand. When people ventured back into the world after the pandemic, travel agents saw an overwhelming amount of business . And that momentum hasn’t stopped—when travel is complicated, like it was in 2020 and 2021, travelers turned to professional trip planners to create a seamless vacation. For better or worse, traveling has remained complicated and chaotic, with new rules being implemented (like Americans needing to pay a fee to visit Europe in 2024 ) and airline strikes and staffing issues. Offloading all of the nitty-gritty details to someone else is more appealing than ever.

For those entering the field, there's also the age-old motivator: a love of travel. 

Shelton Ellis, who is based in North Carolina, recently saw these opportunities and left behind more than 20 years in public relations and global advertising to turn his passion into a career. “I was born with a wanderlust that would wear Rick Steves out,” Ellis says. “I decided to take the leap and follow that lifelong yearning. Transitioning into this role was really about learning how to monetize what I'm passionate about.”

Whether you are looking for a new career path or a lucrative side-hustle—or simply curious about those taking the plunge—here’s how to become a travel agent, from the qualifications and education required, to anticipated earnings, according to those who have made the shift in the past year. 

What exactly does a travel agent do?

Travel agents, or travel advisors (the term is mostly interchangeable), manage everything that goes into a trip for their clients: the flights, car transfers, accommodations, restaurant reservations, and more—they even inspire the itinerary. The reason people turn to travel agents, aside from having a helping hand during any travel chaos , is also to tap into the travel agent’s first-hand knowledge of destinations, and their industry partnerships, which often lead to perks such as hotel upgrades, ideal airplane seats, and experiences that can’t be found on a search engine.

“You have to remember that as a travel agent, you will be a guide for people during their happiest moments—family reunions, weddings , baptisms, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that people have dreamt of,” says Kapoor-Miller. “It has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a travel agent. You navigate people, inform them, and help them choose.”

So, how do you become a travel agent?

There are many ways to become a travel agent, from joining an existing travel agency , to starting an independent business from the ground up. Others are opting for one of the buzziest start-ups in the travel industry, Fora . When it launched in 2021, the software company, which trains and provides search engine-optimized profile pages to advisors—at one point had a waitlist of over 30,000 people eager to begin a part-time gig. Travel photographer and Condé Nast Traveler contributor Amanda Villarosa is currently in the process of joining.

“I'm the person that friends and family come to for travel recommendations, tips and tricks, and general travel advice,” says Villarosa. “After discovering Fora and looking into it, I realized that it could be the perfect side-hustle, considering I'm already so involved in the industry.”

With additional flexibility, Villarosa was able to move from New York City to splitting her time between Denver and Los Angeles . She says that the sign-up was quite straightforward. “You're given a dedicated Fora email and have access to advising tools and fellow Fora advisors,” she says. “The training is in the form of Zoom meetings and videos, which you have the option to watch at your own pace. Once completed, you take a certification quiz and you're on your way to advising.”

The other ways in are slightly more involved. To begin an independent practice, you go about it like many other businesses. You will have to create an LLC, establish a business name, cultivate marketing materials, build a website, find clientele, and more.

Ellis found something in the middle, choosing to connect with an established travel agency. “Don't be afraid to reach out to an agency looking to take on new advisors and is willing to mentor," says Ellis. "I was fortunate to learn so much from Annie Chambers, the owner of Crafted Escapes , who has seven years in the business.” He now knows the ropes on everything from using itinerary-building software to destination-specific training, to the sales and marketing aspects of the trade.

Is there required education or qualifications?

Ellis says that there's no certification, per se, required to become a travel advisor, but there are countless training courses available like Departure Lounge ’s classes on navigating the industry through hotels and tour operators. He said it’s also important to stay on top of travel trends. Ellis recently completed travel agent training programs provided by premier cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages , Ritz-Carlton Yachts , and Cunard to help agents sell their products more accurately.

How much does a travel agent make?

What a travel agent earns depends on how many trips they successfully book for their clients. The entire model is commission-based, meaning agents earn a percentage of the total cost of the vacation they orchestrate. Many travel advisors choose to charge a flat-rate planning fee in addition to their commission, but balance is key—if you charge a high planning fee, it could lead to potential clients going elsewhere.

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Fora ’s website states that “some of our full-time, expert advisors earn well into the six figures (or beyond).” So a lucrative career may be on the horizon, for those who are able to build a robust client base and excellent industry connections.

How much you make can also depend on where you live around the world. “I am being paid in dollars,” says India-based Kapoor-Miller. “So the currency fluctuations of the local exchange rate are not something I am worried about.”

What are the key skills required to become a travel agent?

“Travel agents need a mix of customer service, communication, destination knowledge, organizational, and problem-solving skills,” says Kapoor-Miller. “But I would say that adaptability, flexibility, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity top them all—you have to put yourself in other's shoes, and understand the requirements, hopes, and expectations of your clients along with any worries and questions they may have.”

It’s vital to have a passion for traveling, even the aspects of the process that aren’t as exciting, such as learning about new airline routes, train schedule updates, and industry news. “It can be an information-heavy hustle, and I believe it's important to be excited about it as that energy definitely transfers to your clients and partners,” Villarosa says.

Should travel advisors choose a specialization?

Many travel advisors have found success through becoming an expert in a few types of travel and destinations. “It's important to become an authority and learn as much as you can through personal experiences and continuing education,” says Ellis. “As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community , an avid snow skier, and scuba diver, I know not only the popular destinations but others that are off the beaten path, equally safe and adventurous for all travelers.” This helps travel agents establish a competitive edge, and hopefully convince potential clients to choose them for their expertise.

What are the benefits of being a travel agent?

“Flexibility tops them all,” says Kapoor-Miller. “And the ability to start without industry knowledge. If you worry that you are too old for this job, the good news is that this is a job you can enter and enjoy at any age.”

Another great perk is the "Familiarization trip,” says Ellis. “Tourism boards and hotels invite agents to visit and familiarize themselves with a particular country and its properties. After all, any accomplished salesperson should learn everything they can about their products first-hand...even if they're in Bora Bora.” It's hard work, but someone's got to do it. 

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

14 Pros and Cons of Being a Travel Agent

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

2021 may not have been the best year for the travel industry, but, thankfully, things have been turning around.

What does this mean for industry professionals?

It means that the demand for their services, including the services of travel agents, has been growing again.

But what exactly is a travel agent, and what are their responsibilities?

A travel agent is a middle person connecting tourists with companies that provide travel-related services, such as accommodation, transportation, and entertainment.

They are also responsible for letting their clients know about important requirements, like visas and vaccinations.

In addition, they process payments and deposits and take care of issues and emergencies on behalf of their clients.

Article Table of Contents

• 1.1 Decent Income
• 1.2 Flexible Working Hours
• 1.3 Travel Opportunities
• 1.4 Independence
• 1.5 Supplementary Income
• 1.6 Different Specializations
• 1.7 No Required Special Training
• 2.1 High Amount of Stress
• 2.2 Stiff Competition
• 2.3 Exposure to Client Lawsuits
• 2.4 Increased Price Transparency
• 2.5 Uncertain Job Security
• 2.6 Limited Opportunities for Advancement
• 2.7 Difficulties in Maintaining a Positive Online Presence
• 3 Should You Become a Travel Agent?
• 4 Pros and Cons of Being a Travel Agent – Summary Table

Pros of Being a Travel Agent

Decent income.

Being a travel agent can potentially be a very lucrative endeavor.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , travel agents make an average salary of $46,650 (as of May 2020) with a range of $25,230 and $73,360.

Of course, a travel agent’s income depends on a number of factors, including experience, number of clients, and commission rates.

It is not uncommon for a hardworking agent to make as much as $80k to $100k per year.

Flexible Working Hours

If you decide to become a home-based agent (which many travel agents do), you will have the luxury of working wherever you want, whenever you want.

There is no need to report for duty early in the morning.

You get to call the shots and start working whenever the time is perfectly right for you.

That being said, it is important to have a routine.

According to Northwestern Medicine , having a routine alleviates stress, allows you to sleep better, and improves your overall health.

And, in the long run, it makes you a more productive travel agent.

Travel Opportunities

Every kind of business requires that you be good at what you do.

Being a good travel agent means having in-depth knowledge about what you are offering your clients.

That means you have to travel a great deal to see and experience the destinations you are promoting.

Thankfully, many hotels and destination packages offer travel agents with “familiarization” trips, also known as FAM trips .

Through these discounted trips, agents can gather the facts and knowledge they need to successfully sell their services.

Independence

Not all career paths offer the flexibility of owning your own business and being your own boss.

But, fortunately, as a travel agent, you can have that kind of independence.

Freelance/independent travel agents are growing by the day.

And maybe it is your turn to hop on the bandwagon and become a self-employed travel agent.

One of the perks of being independent is that you can set your own hours and decide where you work.

But, as we mentioned earlier, it is essential to have a schedule/routine .

Supplementary Income

Not all aspiring agents want to work in the field full time.

Some just want a secondary source of income.

Thankfully, the travel agent job is versatile enough to suit both full-time and part-time working schedules.

If you are a part-time travel agent who wishes to take the job to the next level and make it a full-time career, that is absolutely possible, too.

Different Specializations

No two travel agents are the same.

While one travel agent might specialize in Caribbean cruises and honeymoon destinations in Europe, another might concentrate on African safaris or mountain-climbing trips in the Himalayas.

The specializations you choose will, of course, depend on your interests.

After all, you have to love and be passionate about what you are selling.

No Required Special Training

Travel agents do not need a special certificate or license .

However, some formal training in the hospitality or tourism field would be very beneficial if you are applying for a job at a travel agency.

In the end, your most important asset is your passion for the travel industry.

If you let that shine in your application and interview, you will much more likely stand out.

Cons of Being a Travel Agent

High amount of stress.

A high level of responsibility can come with a large amount of stress.

Working as a travel agent can be very fun and rewarding.

But when tasks pile up during peak season, travel protocols change, or clients let you know they are less than pleased with the services they have received, the work can get mentally and emotionally draining.

Working in this field is not for the faint of heart.

However, if you have thick skin and are always up for a new challenge, being a travel agent might be for you.

Stiff Competition

Although people are always traveling, travel agents have to stand out from the crowd.

Agents are all over the market, clambering to attract potential clients.

The key to success in the market is positioning yourself in a way that gets you noticed.

One of the biggest factors that differentiate you from your competitors is your unique selling proposition (USP) .

Once you have found your destination’s USP, you will have what it takes to catch people’s eyes and convince them to visit your destination.

Exposure to Client Lawsuits

One of the perks of being a travel agent is getting to meet people from all walks of life.

But there is a possible downside.

Not everyone will be pleased, and some might even go as far as suing you or your company as a way to settle disputes.

Lawsuits might be based on things like misinterpretation or negligence.

Although what happens during your client’s trip is not your responsibility, you do have to make sure that you present your destination in a completely truthful manner.

Also, having your clients buy travel insurance may greatly alleviate their emergency costs and significantly lessen their chances of filing a lawsuit.

Increased Price Transparency

Of course, honesty, openness, and transparency are extremely important for any travel agent or business person.

However, increased price transparency , which has come with the rise of the internet age, has brought on new challenges for travel agents.

Information is easily accessible online, and clients can see and compare an array of prices and offers.

This has made competition stiffer, which means travel agents really have to focus on their USP and make sure their prices are competitive.

Uncertain Job Security

One common belief is that the internet is taking the place of travel agents.

With a wealth of information at their fingertips, clients can just conduct research on their own.

But travel agents will never be fully replaced by the internet.

As long as people are traveling, travel agents will still have jobs.

That being said, the internet has impacted the market to a degree.

Some people simply plan and book their trips online without the help of a travel agent.

This means you really need to sell yourself.

If you do not uniquely position yourself within the market, people will either opt for your competitors or do everything online.

Limited Opportunities for Advancement

This field offers limited advancement opportunities.

But if you are fine with staying in the same line of work for many years, this might not be an issue for you.

The highest position level you can achieve is probably that of a branch manager.

If you really want to advance in your career and maximize your earning potential, you would be best served by starting your own travel agency.

Difficulties in Maintaining a Positive Online Presence

We have already mentioned the importance of having a USP.

One of your biggest tools in accomplishing this will be your website.

However, a simple, basic website will not cut it.

You will need some strategies to attract people to your site.

Ways to increase traffic include having an active social media presence, advertising, optimizing your site for searches and keywords , sending email newsletters, and creating a travel blog.

Should You Become a Travel Agent?

With the travel industry gaining traction again, travel agents are in growing demand.

As intermediates that connect their clients with travel-related services like transportation and accommodation, they have a huge amount of responsibility.

They also have to be up-to-date on the latest visa and vaccination requirements, so travel agents always have to be on their toes.

There are many advantages of being a travel agent.

These include a decent income, flexibility, opportunities for travel, and different specializations to choose from.

Many people opt for careers as travel agents for these exact reasons.

However, like every other career, the travel agent career has some downsides.

One disadvantage is that it can be a very demanding and stressful job.

Competition can also be very stiff, thanks to the internet and a large number of agents in the market.

Luckily, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages for most travel agents.

If you end up pursuing this path, you will be on your way to a very lucrative and rewarding career.

Pros and Cons of Being a Travel Agent – Summary Table

Noteworthy resources.

• Online Travel Agent Training Programs
• 15 Pros and Cons of Being a Freight Broker
• 20 Pros and Cons of Being a Truck Driver
• 14 Pros and Cons of Being an Interior Designer
• 14 Pros and Cons of Being a Professional Recovery Coach

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

The Perks of Being a Travel Agent

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Despite all that can go wrong in the world of travel, agents are still some of the most enthusiastic, career-driven people you can find. Whether dealing with hurricanes or unplannable life events or trying to succeed in an uber-competitive marketplace , travel professionals remain optimistic about the industry.   This is what we heard back when we asked travel agents around the country what the perks are of their daily work that keep them motivated, even on the most challenging days.   1. You get to share your passion. “As a travel agent, the travel insights and sharing of experiences are just icing on top that we can provide to enhance a client’s experiences. My biggest satisfaction as a travel agent is contagiously sharing my passion for traveling and helping others create the experiences and memories themselves that they, too, will always cherish.” - Megan Hill, Destination Fun Travel (Kansas City, Mo.) 2. You travel and experience amazing cultures. “Besides the part that I get to travel and experience amazing cultures, I also get to share my passion with my clients and other travel agents.” - Susan M. Kruk, Diplomat Travel (Township, Mich.)   3. You can be your own boss and work at home. “ Working from home; not having to be disturbed by drop-ins; being independent; living wherever we want to; not having to retire at a certain age. We have owned our agency since 1975, being refugees from Silicon Valley. We moved to Oregon from California in 1992 due to the high cost of living and the overcrowding. We can set our service chargers however we choose; take days off whenever we want to; and be selective about who we take on as customers.” - Sylvia Blishak, Train Travel Consulting (Klamath Falls, Ore.)   4. You make lifelong connections. “In my 39-year career, my biggest perk has been my wonderful clients. I’ve met some darling couples and darling people who I helped with travel and I have some long-term clients that I’ve had for many, many years. I think the industry as a whole, we group together when times are tough and I enjoy the camaraderie not just with my clients but with the suppliers, too.” - Tammy Shamblin-Renie, Red Parrot Travel (Longwood, Fla.)   5. You’re selling a dream. “It’s one of the more interesting jobs in the world. You can live vicariously through your clients; I’ve never been to Japan but I see my clients’ pictures and it’s kind of like you’re going with them. We’re selling a dream and sometimes those things can be really magical for you as a travel agent. I had one lady 65-years-old filling out a form, and when she wrote Hawaii, she said ‘this has been my dream my whole life’ – and I was making that dream come true. If you stay in that it can really last you a lifetime, and it’s one of the best feelings.” - Michelle Weller, Travel Leaders (Houston, Texas)   6. It’s never boring. “Maybe it is or isn’t a traditional perk, but my day is never boring. I have something different going on every single day and I’m constantly multi-tasking. I would be totally bored with my job if I had to do the same thing all day, every day. I enjoy meeting other professionals when I travel. I learn about the cruise industry and hotel industry, for example by meeting and speaking with those industry executives.” Colleen Gillette, New Paltz Travel (New Paltz, N.Y.)   7. You’re connected with like-minded people. “ I love meeting my fellow travel agents at conferences and meetings; they’re vibrant, passionate, well-traveled people who have a curiosity of how the world works.” - Lynda Phillippi, Renaissance Travel and Events (McMinnville, Ore.)   8. You get to share your expertise. “The relationships I have with my clients and the joy of helping them fulfill their travel dreams by offering them new experiences.” - Dawn Snyder, World Travel (Tulsa, Okla.)   9. You become an expert in what people want to talk about. “ The best perk of being a travel agent is the exposure we receive to an infinite array of opportunity, knowledge, interests, world destinations, issues, info technology, being a problem solver, an advocate, a sales virtuoso, an empathic ear and deliverer of salvation for clients in troubling situations. And the glowing satisfaction in knowing that travel agents are the worker bees and cross-pollinators of world’s largest industry – travel and tourism – worth U.S. $7.6 trillion yearly and growing.” - Norman Payne, Uniglobe Premiere Travel (Ottawa, Canada)

10. You have an opportunity to drive your own success. “ My peers all discouraged the idea of a home-operated, cruise-only agency. I was scared to death, but at the same time I knew it was something I had to try or I could never live with myself. Thankfully, they were wrong. Now I have grown my business as host agency and have 20 home-based independent contractors.” - Marlys Aballi, Connection to Cruise (Redlands, Calif.)

MOST VIEWED

• Report: Delta Air Lines Plans to Drop Baggage Recheck on Arrival to U.S.
• Four Spots Onboard the All-New Sun Princess We’re Not in Love With
• Op-Ed: Why I Won’t Use Costco for Travel Again
• Catering Strike Causes Delays at Toronto Pearson Airport
• Delta Air Lines Is Changing the Way It Boards Flights
• Testing the Waters with Dori: The NCL Stranded Passenger "Fiasco"
• Margaritaville at Sea Offers Advisor-Only Pricing
• Horseshoe’s Jubilee Tower Becomes the Versailles Tower at Paris Las Vegas
• California Bans Drip Pricing: What It Means for Travel Advisors
• The NCL Stranded Passenger “Fiasco”: Your Replies
• Holland America Group Resigns USTOA Membership
• Carnival Corp. Changes Advertised Pricing Policy & Cancellation Fee Structure to Comply with Calif. Law

Unique Ways Travel Advisors Enhance Their Clients’ Journeys

Here are some of the ways that advisors can enhance their clients’ journeys.

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

MSC’s new webinar series for Canadian travel advisors will be in English and French.

Here are five all-inclusive resorts that offer unique destination weddings.

The billboard ran all day on May 1 on 45 th Street between 7 th and 8 th Avenue in Manhattan.

In the role, Sweeney will be tasked with managing the U.S. marketing department. 

'ALGV invests more in the advisor than anyone else.'

Suppliers from across the travel industry are expressing their gratitude to the trade.

Protect Your Trip »

Is a travel agent worth it the pros and cons.

Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner.

The Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

Getty Images

A travel agent can save you money and time.

Need to pivot your trip plans but don't want to deal with the extra time, money and hassle of rebooking flights and accommodations on your own? That's just one area where a knowledgeable travel agent (also commonly known as a travel advisor) can help. Read on to discover the other benefits – as well as the downsides – of using a travel agent, so you can confidently decide whether or not a travel agent is worth it for your next trip.

The Pros of Using a Travel Agent

Travel agents can save you money – and get you other perks.

"In some cases, you'll actually get a better  deal by working with a travel agent," says Jackie Steele, travel expert at MagicGuides . "This could be in the form of a cruise onboard credit (free spending money to use on the ship), access to special agency/group rates, or even just learning about a discount you qualify for but weren't aware of." The best agents will even keep an eye on new discounts as they're announced and apply them to your trip even after you've booked, he notes.

Travel agents handle all the details

Hotel room? Booked. Dinner reservations? Made. Tour tickets? Ready to go. A travel agent handles every detail of your vacation itinerary. "The traveler still gets to be involved in the fun part of dreaming up ideas and providing their travel wishes, while we take and perfect them," says Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer .

Molly McShea, owner and travel advisor at McShea Travel , points out that travel agents can also help with timing logistics. "Travel agents know how many days should be spent in each destination, which tours go together, and how many things you should do in a day," she says, adding that crafting an itinerary can be challenging if it's not something you regularly do. Additionally, travel agents can help you choose the best time to visit your preferred destination(s) based on seasonality and your budget, and sift through travel insurance policies to find the best option for your needs.

Travel agents can provide local expertise

"A travel advisor's industry connections and relationships provide added value to their clients," says Valerie Edman, a luxury travel advisor and agency owner at Cultured Travel LLC. She says when working with a travel agent, travelers gain access to a global network of connections including:

• In-destination specialists who work exclusively with travel advisors and can connect travelers with unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences they wouldn't otherwise know about
• Exclusive experiences not available to the general public

You'll avoid surprise fees

When deciding if a travel agent is worth it for you, remember this: A reputable agent can guarantee you won't encounter any surprise fees on accommodations and activities once your trip is booked.

You'll have someone to troubleshoot unexpected travel issues

A travel advisor is essentially your personal vacation concierge. "Because they've been around for so long, agents really know what to look for," says Christopher Elliott , a consumer advocate and journalist. "Travel agents are among the first to know about flight cancellations and delays , making it easy for them to rebook itineraries right away." 

The Cons of Using a Travel Agent

It might not be your cheapest option.

There are some instances when it makes more sense to plan your own trip. "If you're planning a quick flight from New York City to Los Angeles, it's easy enough to book it yourself online directly or through a third-party booking site," says Elliott. "If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or bucket list honeymoon , that's when you call the experts."

You'll have less flexibility in your itinerary

The upside of working with a travel agent is having someone plan an epic vacation for you based on industry knowledge and local expertise. But this can also be a downside in the event you discover an activity you'd like to do or a restaurant you'd like to try that isn't on your pre-planned itinerary. If you alter your plans, you risk losing money; plus, the time it takes for you and your travel agent to coordinate your change of plans may not be worth the hassle.

You still have to do some research

It's important to find an agent you can trust, which means you still have to do some of the vacation planning. For this part, Parker recommends picking up the phone. "Lots of people avoid or don't pick up the phone as much anymore," she says. "That's where you get the high-touch service, tone of voice, excitement or concerns to manage." She advises to look for the following red flags:

• No fees: " Travel advisors are charging planning fees more now or increasing them, so the client knows more confidently than ever, we work for them, not the suppliers with the best commissions," Parker explains. "There are a lot of things that are non-commissionable and the advisor's time and expertise shouldn't be given away for free, either. That's the best way to show an advisor takes their business seriously."
• Limited options: If you work with someone who is inexperienced or has an incentive to book you with a certain supplier, they may not be prioritizing your best interests. "It's important to check if they are with a larger consortia, accreditations and network, typically listed on their website and signatures," says Parker. "That level of mindshare doesn't come with a lone advisor unless they have many, many years of experience."
• Slow response times: If communication is delayed, that's a sign they may be too busy to plan your trip – but again, this is something you can avoid by having the right conversations early on.

Edman suggestes starting your search with the American Society of Travel Advisors . "ASTA-verified travel advisors are committed to the highest industry standards and have verifiable industry knowledge so consumers can feel confident in working with them," she says.

You might also be interested in:

• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• The Best Luggage Brands

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 13 best key west tours of 2024.

Gwen Pratesi May 3, 2024

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

The 15 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Everything You Need to Know About Becoming a Travel Agent

Here's what you should know before becoming a travel agent.

If you're someone who spends your days scanning flights , loves hotel rewards points, and in general, is a fervent traveler, you've probably wondered how to become a travel agent.

And, while it's true that living in the age of Expedia means travel agents are not as vital as they once were, people use them a lot more than you might think. Just because travelers aren't calling up an agent every time they need to book a quick flight doesn't mean they don't want to consult an expert for a big trip. This holds especially true when it comes to honeymoons or experiential trips that have a lot of moving parts — coordinating tour companies , translators, or multiple resort stays, for example. It's often easier to leave the logistics to someone else: travel agents.

You don't need a specific employment background to become a travel agent, so if you're looking for a fresh career start, that's totally OK. You have to start somewhere on your path to becoming a travel agent, and the sooner you jump in, the sooner you'll build your client base. On the other hand, if you're hoping to parlay your experience in a semi-related industry, be it marketing or hospitality, that can help because you'll have even more context for your new gig. Either way, this can be a rewarding career path (with some fun perks), so here's what you need to know to become a travel agent.

Formal Training Needed to Become a Travel Agent

While some four-year colleges, community colleges, and trade schools offer tourism certifications, it is not a requirement for those trying to become travel agents. Certificates of tourism can be very helpful, but so can previous training in marketing, hospitality, or even event planning. Ultimately, your knowledge of destinations, sales, itinerary planning, and booking software will be crucial for your career as a travel agent.

In terms of the training time you need to put in before becoming a fully-fledged travel agent, it depends. You could start your career right after high school, or you could put in one to four years to earn a certificate, associate's, or bachelor's degree in tourism. Of course, you could also change course from a related job, and morph your experience as, say, a destination wedding planner into a career as a travel agent.

Training Programs Available

You could take classes with a company like The Travel Institute to earn your certification. Not only will they teach you the basics of planning itineraries, but they'll also make sure you're learning about new cultures, world geography, and experiences you can have all over the world. They'll also help you decide what business route you want to take.

How to Become a Travel Agent: The Logistics

Becoming a travel agent will likely mean starting your own business . On the plus side, it requires relatively little overhead. If you're becoming a small business owner by opening a yoga studio, for example, you will need to rent a space, deal with permits, buy supplies, build a website, and pay yoga teachers and someone to work the front desk. However, if you're starting a travel agent business, you can operate from your living room and there aren't nearly as many upfront costs.

You will have to think about what type of business you want to become. Do you want to incorporate or become an LLC? Would you rather be a sole proprietor? Incorporating takes the most effort, and is often the most expensive. Becoming an LLC is a good happy medium because it can help protect you as a business entity without having as many associated costs. Small business owners typically become an LLC to protect their personal assets. If you get sued as an LLC, someone can come after your business holdings, but can't come after your house, car, or personal savings.

If you choose to remain a sole proprietor (which doesn't require any fees or legwork), you are essentially a freelancer or independent contractor. You can be an LLC and an independent contractor, too — they aren't mutually exclusive. If you want to be an independent contractor, it likely means you're working as part of a larger host agency, which is smart to do when you're starting out as a travel agent. Down the road, you can also own a travel agency franchise. Owning a franchise might come with more overhead costs, and that would be a reason to incorporate.

If you're an independent contractor, you should know that your taxes aren't going to be as straightforward as a full-time employee's might be. You may have to start keeping track of your business expenses, as you might be able to write them off. You also might not get things like health benefits from your employer. As you plan your new career, consider sitting down with an established travel agent to ask them some logistical questions: Where do they get their health insurance? How do they keep track of their income and expenses? Do they use an accountant to do their taxes? While meeting with the travel agent, you can discuss the pros and cons of working for a larger agency, too. If you're not sure how to get in touch with other travel agents, consider using social media, like LinkedIn or even Instagram.

What to Think About When You Become a Travel Agent

Once you've secured work as a travel agent, you'll want to think about how you can earn more money and distinguish yourself from other agents. Here are three things to consider as you start your career.

Making Commissions: If you're working for a larger travel agency as an independent contractor, how do commissions work? Make sure you have this conversation early on before accepting the position. When you're starting out, you want to make sure the commission rate you're receiving is similar to the industry standard.

Growing Your Client Base: How do you make more money as a travel agent? Clients, clients, clients. You want happy customers who will return to you every time they want to book a travel experience. You'll want to keep your clients happy by finding them great deals, curating unbelievable experiences for them, and simply being great to work with.

Establishing a Niche: This is by no means a requirement for becoming a travel agent, but as you establish your career, you may want to consider focusing on a specific niche. For example, perhaps you're someone who focuses on honeymoon travel , luxury travel, or adventure travel . Your niche can help you attract clients, and it can be anything in the travel realm, as long as there's a need for it.

Related Articles

THE JOURNAL

Travel Advisor Resources

Life as a Remote Travel Agent: Fora’s Guide

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora Travel

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/remote-travel-agent

Considering a career as a remote travel agent? We have all the details for you, from how remote travel advisors compare to in-person roles, to what the average day looks like. 

Already know what you’re signing up for? Apply to become a Fora Advisor today.

What does a remote travel agent do?

Nowadays, remote travel agents do just about everything in-person travel agents do, except everything they do is remote (no surprises here). 

Need to start from the beginning? Here’s exactly what a travel agent does .

Is a remote travel agent the same as a virtual travel agent? What services are offered by virtual travel agencies?

The two are one and the same. The only difference between a remote travel agent and a virtual travel agent is the title, which often comes down to personal preference. 

If you want a full breakdown of the different terms that travel advisors use, check out our guide to travel advisor versus travel consultant jobs .

Are remote travel agents in demand?

Every day, more and more travelers are seeking the services of travel advisors over online travel agencies like Expedia and Travelocity. Coupled with an exponential rise in travel over the past few years, remote travel agents are indeed still in demand. 

What does a typical day look like as a remote travel agent?

It’s hard to accurately define a “typical day" as a remote travel agent because every professional has a different schedule and process. 

However, most travel agents split their time between three major tasks: self-marketing, working with clients and research. At the same time, there’s not really a right way to divvy up each task — the cool thing about being a remote travel agent is that you get to decide what works best for you.

Self-marketing: earning new clients

As an independent travel agent , you’ll generally be responsible for promoting your business. Marketing is a huge part of any travel advisor business, remote or otherwise. Without it, no one will know who you are or what you do. 

The most successful remote travel agents typically boast a notable social media presence, run email campaigns and take advantage of other marketing tools. That’s usually in addition to serving their existing professional and social networks (i.e., friends, family, peers). 

If this sounds intimidating, don’t worry. If you sign up to become a Fora Advisor, our membership includes a wealth of travel agent training specifically meant to teach you how to market your travel business like a pro . Even better, we provide tons of marketing tools — from social media templates to your own landing page — to boost your business.

Working with clients: booking trips, planning itineraries & more

Helping clients figure out where to stay in Tokyo , planning trips to the best places to visit in Spain for first timers , booking the coolest hotels in Vegas …this is the fun part. Once you have a few clients in rotation, you’ll find that a good portion of your time as a remote travel agent is made up of planning and booking reservations. 

Not so coincidentally, this is another area where Fora offers a ton of help. Our proprietary booking platform allows Fora Advisors to make reservations at nearly 30,000 hotels globally, dramatically cutting down booking times. Plus, of those hotels, almost 5,000 and counting are preferred partners , where advisors can score their clients awesome perks.

Research & networking: improving your business across the board

Finally, the best remote travel agents devote a portion of their time to improving both their services and travel knowledge. This could be finding ways to improve their marketing efforts — like learning how to build a sales funnel within a travel context — working on supplier partnerships (e.g., hotels, tour operators, etc.) or simply researching destinations to craft better itineraries. 

Fora delivers here, too. All Fora Advisors can access Forum, our in-house community platform that allows travel advisors to ask questions — no matter how small — and share knowledge, tips and deals. It’s an inclusive environment that’s built around collaboration (rather than competition), and the wealth of material that exists within Forum is staggering.

Remote travel agent FAQs

Have more questions about remote travel agents? We have answers.

How exactly does remote travel planning work?

Just like in-person travel planning, except it’s usually done over a computer or phone. The exact methods are often left up to the advisor and client, but emails and calls (either via Zoom or over the phone) are typical. Likewise, communication between the travel advisor and supplier takes place remotely. 

Just as remote travel agents are happy to be able to work from anywhere, the same can be said for clients. Think of it from their perspective: would you rather travel to a brick-and-mortar office or work with an agent from anywhere in the world?

Is it worth it to become a remote travel agent?

Is being a travel agent worth it ? We sure think so. Of all the jobs in the travel industry , travel planning offers the most flexibility. There’s virtually no earnings cap. And your whole job is centered on making people happy (who doesn’t love to travel?). 

As far as being remote, it’s hard to complain about being able to work anywhere that has an internet connection. 

(Still unsure about becoming a remote travel agent? Hear 8 reasons to become a Fora Advisor , straight from the source.)

Do you have to work full time or can you sell travel as a side gig? Is this a good career path?

As far as careers in travel and tourism go, becoming a remote travel agent is a pretty sweet deal. Some travel agencies do require full-time commitments, but we prefer flexibility. At Fora, you can plan trips as a travel side hustle , travel agent career or anything in between. It’s totally up to you. 

Intrigued? Sign up to become a Fora Advisor today.

Do remote travel agents make good money? Can you earn a living?

It takes patience and dedication, but yes, remote travel agents can make very good money (see our guide to how much travel agents make for specifics). Our top earners make six figures, and the average Fora Advisor still makes enough to be comfortable (looking for the best remote jobs for moms , perhaps?). It’s also worth noting that many Fora Advisors pursue travel planning as a side gig, which we also fully support.

What’s the typical salary of a remote travel agent?

The typical Fora travel advisor salary varies. Again, many Fora Advisors choose to work part time, but many still earn covetable income. The more you book, the more you earn.

Are there different types of remote travel agents?

There are indeed different niches and travel agent jobs out there, including Disney travel agents , luxury travel advisors and corporate travel agents . 

Some remote travel agents also specialize in booking travel to specific destinations, such as the best places to visit in Hawai‘i .

(P.S. Love the idea of catering to a high-end clientele? Learn how to become a luxury travel agent .)

Is being a remote travel agent stressful?

Working as a remote travel agent can be overwhelming at first, but advisors who stick with the profession will tell you that the pros far outweigh the cons. We offer plenty of travel agent training and tips for how to be a successful travel advisor to get you through the tough parts. But as a Fora Advisor, you get to determine your own schedule, and can work as much or as little as you'd like. Over time, many find that managing the different aspects of being a remote travel agent is quite enjoyable.

Want to become a remote travel agent online? Join Fora

Ready to become a travel agent online ? Apply to become a Fora Advisor and kick off your travel career today.

Looking for more travel advisor resources? Check out these articles as well:

What Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent?  

How Long Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent?  

Travel Agent Certification: Options and FAQs  

How Do Travel Agents Get Paid (& Why Fora Does It Differently)  

Why Group Bookings Are Great: Tips from an Expert  

5 Types of Bookings You Can Make as a Fora Advisor (That Aren’t Hotels!)  

How Do Travel Agents Get Clients? Fora's Top 5 Tips

Are you the go-to person for travel tips?

Transform your passion for travel into your dream job. We'll set you up with everything you need to succeed as a travel advisor. From training to top-notch tech, marketing assets, community, commission tracking & payments (and more), we've got you.

Are Travel Agents Worth It? Here's How To Decide If One Is Right For You

If any of these questions apply to you, then chances are, you're in desperate need of a travel agent to help with vacation booking.

The world of travel is constantly changing and in order to keep up, the  method  of travel planning is also continuously changing. From travel agents to Expedia and even Groupon travel packages, there are a seemingly endless number of options out there nowadays. Which, of course, begs the question: Do actual travel experts have any role in the world of trip-planning nowadays?

Contrary to popular belief, there is still a time and place when consulting with a travel agent will not only help to plan a vacation but will help travelers save money, as well. Although the idea of travel agencies is a thing of the past, that doesn't mean potential travelers won't benefit from having someone on the inside - here's how.

Related:  Here Are A Couple Life Hacks On How To Book Cheap Air Tickets

Let's Talk Money-Saving

For starters, booking through a website such as Expedia or Travelocity doesn't necessarily give travelers the option to put down a deposit before paying the final balance in full. In a world where everyone is seeking out budget-friendly travel options, it can be frustrating when everything is due upfront. This also limits travelers in the sense that any plans that need changing or alternating can't be done after the fact - whereas travel agents are able to amend plans as time goes on. Booking with an agent also allows (in most cases) travelers to put a hold on things such as hotels. By doing this, it allows the option for everyone in the group to chat and discuss whether that works for everyone.

Another promising benefit of booking with an agent is access to early prices and discounts. Travel agents have access to promotions that many people don't, even when it comes to third-party booking companies. Early-bird specials on travel can include:

• Rooms that are reserved intentionally, even when they're booked up on other sites
• A more expansive choice of flights and airlines
• Incentives when it comes to booking a trip earlier rather than later

By taking advantage of booking with an agent, travelers can rest assured that their plans are locked in place, as well. When booking elsewhere, plans are solidified until a balance is paid in full and, even then, many travelers hold their breaths until they have email confirmations of everything.

No Need To Tango With Flight Plans

Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of booking with a travel agent is one it comes to large groups. If the travel plans include four or fewer people, it's probably pretty safe to say that planning is easy enough to do within the group. However, if travel group sizes are more than five, things get a bit tricker. When it comes to people flying in from multiple places and attempting to meet up at one place, an agent can be incredibly helpful. Rather than travelers navigating the maze of confusion that is plane arrival and departure times, different time zones, and potential deals, it's worth allowing someone else to handle it who's equipped to do so.

According to  Nomadic Matt , the greatest benefit of turning to a travel agent to figure this out is the bonus of saving time. When it comes to travel planning, the headache isn't often worth the time spent on the work it takes to get there. Therefore, most people won't mind paying a bit extra just to have their airline plans sorted out for them. In the long run, this is still - and will likely always be - the best course of action for large groups. Alternatively, this is also a great option for those who plan to do something such as island-hopping or country-hopping, even if the travel group is smaller.

Travel Agents Are Beginner-Friendly

Another great reason to opt for a travel agent or booking agency is if one is a novice traveler. Not everyone has extensive experience booking flights, events, hotels, etc., and not everyone wants to learn how to do that. Purchasing a Groupon package or Costco deal is one thing, but travelers often still need to sort out their flights as well as any potential excursions or tours they might be interested in once they land. Travel agencies will often be offering their own discounted packages, as well - and this is certainly something to inquire about when determining which to go with.

If any of these are confusing:

• Plane tickets
• Time zones around the world
• Comparing hotels
• Figuring out public transportation in another country
• Finding reputable restaurants
• Finding the best travel deals

Then it might be time to consider going with a travel agent. Sometimes, it's just easier to pay someone else to figure these things out - plus, they'll know the travel scene better than anyone else.

Next:  This Is The Best Road Trip Advice You'll Ever Get (According To Reddit)

• April 8, 2023

5 Best Platforms for a Travel Agent Side Hustle

Having a travel agent side hustle is becoming a trend due to the many benefits it offers. According to a Travel Weekly survey, 17.5% of advisors are booking at a rate far beyond that of 2019, and 13.6% report that business is steady. This is an indication that the travel industry is picking up again after a lull that was caused by the pandemic. 

Travel agents cater to a wide demographic, from individuals to corporations. They book flights, cruises, hotels, rental cars, and package tours, among others. 

Although commissions used to be their main source of income, that has shifted in recent years, with travel agents supplementing their income by booking personal travel planning services. For these reasons, starting a travel agent side hustle is an exciting and profitable endeavor that allows people to earn extra income and enjoy flexible working hours.

So, where and how can you find the best way to make money with a travel agent side hustle ? We list the 5 best platforms so you can compare and find one that fits your situation, and start earning that green, RIGHT NOW!

Start Your Travel Agent Side Hustle on Upwork

Upwork can help you find freelancer jobs to earn money for your travel agent side hustle .

Side hustle type: Freelancer

How to work: Search for jobs and apply 

Time consuming: ⏰⏰⏰⏰⏰ (It’s possible to apply for multiple jobs and never hear back)

Competition: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 (High)

With thousands of top-rated travel agents already present on the website, freelancers can easily land remote travel agent jobs. Upwork’s advanced search feature allows individuals to filter out job posts from clients with no previous hires or unverified payment, providing a safe and secure platform to work on. 

There is a steady flow of travelers looking for travel services. With 165 open jobs available at the moment in the trip planning category, it’s clear that many travelers are seeking the guidance of a professional Travel Planner to make their vacation unforgettable.

Personalized travel plans are highly sought after, and Upwork has a variety of planners who can create plans for three, seven, or even ten destinations. Many of these travel planners have years of experience and a passion for travel, which ensures travelers that their trip will be in good hands. Whether it’s leisure or corporate travel, Upwork has a Travel Planner who can deliver highly detailed itineraries with a focus on attention to detail.

Freelancers can find work as travel planners and develop a long-lasting relationship with clients. Upwork offers the least amount of risk as individuals can still work their regular job while building a potentially full-time business through Upwork. Furthermore, the platform allows freelance travel agents to market their skills to their personal network for free via email and social media accounts, expanding their reach even further. 

Despite scamers posing as real clients, Upwork remains a top freelancing website for a travel agent side hustle across the globe.

Start Your Travel Agent Side Hustle on NanoWhat

Open your own itinerary shop to earn money from a travel agent side hustle .

Side hustle type: eCommerce

How to work: Convert travel itineraries into digital products to sell 

Time consuming: ⏰⏰ (Save lots admin & logistics time by using their free service）

Competition: 🔥🔥 (low)

As a travel agent, if you already have many travel itineraries and vacation plans for different destinations, then NanoWhat is a place to help you sell them!

More and more travel agents, bloggers, and Google Local Guides list their travel itineraries under their own shop on NanoWhat. The platform lets you easily convert blogs or social media posts into digital products so you can sell them to travelers all over the world.

As a travel agent, if you frequently receive inquiries from clients for customized travel itineraries , then you might want to consider making travel itineraries for in-demand destinations on NanoWhat. Simply share the link to your customer and they can instantly buy your pre-made travel itinerary directly from your shop, eliminating the risk of planning a trip for a customer that may disappear before paying you for your time.

NanoWhat provides a free “conversion service”. You can send your existing travel itineraries directly to their customer service center, and they provide a free service to convert these contents into sellable products and put them directly in your own e-Shop! This saves a lot of administrative time and logistical efforts for your travel agent side hustle .

Tips: Search on NanoWhat first, and try to make itinerary products for destinations that are not currently available on the website. This can greatly increase the competitiveness of your products.

Start Your Travel Agent Side Hustle with a Dream Vacations Franchise

Join a franchise business to earn money from your travel agent side hustle .

Side hustle type: Sales Commission

How to work: Sell different products to earn commission  

Time consuming: ⏰⏰⏰⏰⏰ (Requires preparation to join their webinar and hands on sales efforts）

Competition: 🔥🔥🔥 (Medium)

If you’re good at sales, have a strong network, and want to work from home to start your own business – Dream Vacation Franchise might be a good travel agent side hustle for you.

Dream Vacations Franchise is a new trend for a travel agent side hustle due to its unique business opportunity offerings. It allows individuals to start their own home-based travel franchise business and be their own boss.

The launch of ‘Dream Vacations Advisor’ also provides support and expertise for those new to the travel industry. With 40 years of experience in creating business opportunities for independent contractors, it knows what it takes to give franchisees a successful career path. 

The franchise has been ranked number one in the travel agency franchise category by Entrepreneur’s 44th Annual ‘Entrepreneur Franchise 500’ list. Although the earnings from this travel agent side hustle are not all that exorbitant, the supplemental income is a major consideration when choosing any career path. The Dream Vacations Franchise is meant to be an opportunity for travel agents to turn their passion for travel into a viable and sustainable career option.

Start Your Travel Agent Side Hustle with Fiverr

Open a Travel Planning gig to earn money as a travel agent side hustle .

Side hustle type: Freelancer Marketplace

How to work: Sell freelancing service to earn commission  

Time consuming: ⏰⏰⏰ (Most of the time is spent on creating the gig）

Fiverr is an online marketplace that connects businesses with freelancers offering digital services in over 500 categories. It is an excellent platform for side hustlers to showcase their skills and earn some extra cash, especially for a travel agent side hustle.

Freelancers can charge anywhere from $5 to $18,000 per project, and the most lucrative services include live action explainer videos and whiteboard animations. By listing services as “gigs”, sellers can easily earn money by completing small one-off jobs. 

Additionally, Fiverr allows sellers to choose how much time and effort they want to put into selling their gigs, making it a flexible option for those looking for a true side hustle while still working another job. Overall, Fiverr is a great place for a travel agent side hustle if  you want to earn some extra cash through your existing skills.

It is a growing trend that travelers are turning to Fiverr for their travel itinerary needs. With Fiverr’s extensive list of travel-related services, users can easily find freelancers to write travel articles, plan their trip itineraries, search for the best deals on airline tickets, and much more. Business travelers can also find travel planners and consultants to help meet their corporate trip planning needs. 

As the market for travel apps and software continues to grow, Fiverr offers a solution for those looking to streamline their travel planning or leave the apps behind and trust their vacation to a human.

Start Your Travel Agent Side Hustle with Fora

Become a part time advisor to earn money from travel agent side hustle

Side hustle type: Affiliate marketing

How to work: Providing travel advisor services to earn commission  

Time consuming: ⏰⏰⏰  (Consulting service only when leads coming in）

Competition: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (High)

Fora has emerged as a new platform for a viable travel agent side hustle, providing an online launch pad for anyone who is passionate about travel and wants to sell travel either as a full-time or part-time job. 

As a member of the Virtuoso agency group, Fora Travel agents can enjoy perks and benefits that Virtuoso can obtain from its partners. Fora’s new platform serves as a foundation for anyone who wants to work in the travel industry and help out with trip planning, complete with training sessions, elevated support, and access to good deals for a fraction of the price you would have to pay to open their own agency.

The rise in demand for personalized experiences has also made Fora an attractive option for travel agents looking to capitalize on their knowledge and passion for travel.

Travel Agent Side Hustle Conclusion

One way to get moving on your travel agent side hustle may be to guide travelers towards alternative, less expensive routes that can reduce overall travel costs. Another way may be to market trips that focus on both leisure and business. Although the pandemic dealt a heavy blow to the tourism industry, international cooperation and assistance to mitigate its effects is essential to help rebuild and accelerate economic recovery. 

As the tourism sector gradually recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, the manner in which people travel is also shifting. This change in travel behavior necessitates that small businesses and individual service providers adapt to new ways of making more profit through a unqie travel agent side hustle. 

No matter which way you’re running your own hustle, one thing for sure is that travel agents must stay current with market trends and adapt innovatively tailored approaches to cater to the evolving needs of travelers.

More articles

5 Must-Visit Hidden Gems In Greece

Escapes: Discovering the Best Travel Packages to Explore the Continent

Top 7 Platforms for Travel Influencers to Earn Money

Don't forget us, bookmark nanowhat, get your 1st map, share your email.

I’m a Travel Agent: 5 Flights Where It’s Worth It To Spend Extra Money on Upgrades

S ome flights are quick and easy and, when budgeting , probably not worth the extra cash to upgrade anything. But, there are some flights where spending a little extra money might make a huge difference. If you think your money would be better spent on luxuries during the days in your destination, you might be overlooking just how much impact your flight can have on you. GOBankingRates spoke to Sushant Yadav, a travel agent with Travelosei , to determine when you should consider purchasing an upgrade on your flight. 

Also see 11 travel hacks to avoid.

Trending Now: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Try This: How To Get $340 Per Year in Cash Back on Gas and Other Things You Already Buy

Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

Long Flights

Consider exactly what goes into a long flight, which is usually anything above six hours. You’re sitting without entertainment and usually without room to stretch out for the better part of a day. It’s worth looking into some upgrades on these flights for your own care and, sometimes, sanity, Yadav said. “During these long trips, additional comfort and amenities provided by premium cabins can make a big difference in the overall comfort and well-being of the travelers.”

Yadav recommended opting for upgrades on marathon flights like enhanced meal options, priority boarding, spacious seating arrangements and better entertainment systems. These can help the time pass by faster, while making sure you’re not dreading every minute. Upgrading can be as easy as asking the gate agent before you board if there are any upgrades left. One tip is to check how full the flight is beforehand. If it has a lot of extra seats, you’re more likely to receive an upgrade, since those seats aren’t taken. 

For You: 10 Best US Vacation Destinations for Retirees on a Budget

When You Have a Deadline

If you’re traveling for work or if you just need to get something done during your time in the air, Yadav said it might be worth looking into an internet upgrade or thinking about switching to a higher class. Furthermore, upgrading your ticket can offer you a little more space and quiet in case you need to speak to someone while flying. “For business travelers, premium seats provide extra space and privacy which is ideal for working, having meetings or even relaxing comfortably before arrival at their destination.”

The cost of internet will vary based on airline and the length of the flight. According to Finance Buzz , the price can start around $5 and go up to $20. Although, some airlines will charge for a full day, so if you have multiple flights on one airline in the same day, you can just pay once and have internet for all of your flights that day. 

So, you’ve opted for an overnight flight and you’re banking on being able to get some sleep on the plane. This might be the time to upgrade your ticket to get the utmost comfort. “For travelers taking off on overnight flights, the ability to recline in a sleeping position and sleep comfortably is their primary concern,” Yadav said. “By upgrading to lie-flat seats or premium cabins that come with better bedding arrangements, journeying can be made more restful so that upon arrival at the destination, one will feel refreshed and ready for the day.”

Some airlines will even offer curtains to keep the light out and increase privacy. Others come with “do not disturb” buttons so flight attendants don’t disturb you while you sleep. A first class ticket on Cathay Pacific will get you 500 thread count sheets, which is better than you’ll get at a lot of hotels. Their beds also come with massage functions so you can soothe yourself to sleep. 

If You Anticipate Running Late

Say you know you’ll be cutting it close between a meeting or something that ends right before your flight. Yadav said you can pay for services that will make your check-in a lot quicker. “In addition to providing comfort and convenience, flight upgrades may also have practical advantages such as priority check-in and baggage handling services and expedited security screening.” These can help you bypass long lines and get to the plane faster than you would had you not paid for these services. 

When You Have a Lot of Time To Kill

Conversely, if you anticipate having to be at an airport for a really long layover, Yadav said paying for lounge access could help the time go by. Plus, lounges can offer you food, beverages and sometimes a shower. One of the best lounges in the world, Air France La Première Lounge in Paris, offers five star meals and a full service spa. The Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt has a cigar lounge. You can feel like you’re nowhere near an airport by spending some extra cash.

More From GOBankingRates

• 6 Expensive Costco Items That Are Definitely Worth the Cost
• 5 Unnecessary Bills You Should Stop Paying in 2024
• 5 Reasons You Should Consider an Annuity For Your Retirement Savings
• 10 New Cars to Avoid Buying in 2024

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : I’m a Travel Agent: 5 Flights Where It’s Worth It To Spend Extra Money on Upgrades

Join AAA today Membership gives you access to Roadside Assistance, Deals, Discounts, and more.

• Add Members
• Gift Membership
• Member Benefits Guide
• The Extra Mile
• Renew Expires in 28 days

AAA Visa Signature® Credit Cards

Earn a $100 Statement Credit

After spending $1,000 on your card within 90 days of account opening.

• Advice back All Advice Travel Auto Money Home Life
• Destinations back All Destinations Northeast States Southeast States Central States Western States Mid-Atlantic States National Parks Road Trips International Travel Inspiration
• Connect back All Connect Community Stories Authors & Ambassadors
• Guides back All Guides Doing Your Taxes Protecting Your Valuables Winter Driving Buying and Selling a Car Buying and Selling a Home Getting Organized Home Improvement Improve Your Finances Maintaining Your Car Saving Money Staying Healthy Traveling
• Series back All Series AAA World Member News AAA's Take KeeKee's Corner AAA Traveler Worldwise Foodie Finds Good Question Minute Escapes Car Reviews
• Public Affairs
• Information

Are Travel Agents Worth It?

Traveling isn’t cheap. There’s transportation—be that plane or bus tickets, a couple of tanks of gas, or all of the above—lodging, meals, admission to various attractions and museums, and more. Adding a travel agent to that list of expenses might seem like a waste of money to some. Others, however, swear by working with travel agents to organize trips and would say their fees pay for themselves in convenience and peace of mind.

So is a travel agent worth it? Here are some pros and cons to consider.

1. Pro: Travel agents know the industry

There was a time when travelers would buy plane tickets in person at the airport and arrange for a hotel once they’d arrived at their destination. Those days are gone. As technology has become more powerful and accessible the travel industry has exploded and consumers’ travel options have multiplied along with it.

On the one hand, this has made some elements of traveling more convenient. On the other, with the advent of things like airline loyalty programs, credit card points, frequent flight delays and blackout days—and even Airbnb and other technologies that have disrupted the hospitality industry—it can feel like there’s suddenly an entire game of four-dimensional chess involved in arranging a relaxing getaway. One survey of American travelers found that 68% considered booking travel these days “ more complex ” than ever before.

Travel agents know that complexity inside and out. They have the expertise, insider industry knowledge, and anecdotal data that come with having planned zillions of flights and booked zillions of hotels on behalf of their customers. They know what days are the best to book, how to get a seat upgrade, which airlines have fees you can get around (and which don’t), and more. On top of that, they learn of flight cancellations and other disruptions well before the greater public, and they’re skilled in troubleshooting those issues. They may be able to offer you travel alternatives before you even know you need them.

2. Con: Finding the right advisor will take research

Though booking with a travel agent can save time when it comes to finding the best, fastest, quickest means of travel, or if you want to avoid poring over guidebooks, it’s not as if there’s no time investment at all. That’s because it’s important to find a representative who won’t just take care of the “lowest-hanging fruit” concerns, and instead understands your specific needs and goals. For example, if you’re a young person traveling solo looking to go off the beaten path and you don’t mind some less-than-luxurious accommodations, you’re unlikely to find a lot of help from a travel advisor who has experience planning travel for families with small children.

What’s more, it’s important to find an advisor you trust. Some travel agents are paid a commission by hotels when they book them, so they’re incentivized to book you with that franchise regardless of whether it makes sense for your trip. So while one of the draws of booking with a travel agent is saving time, it’s worth investing time in finding the right one.

3. Pro: Travel agents have local insights

Travel agents and advisors are there for more than helping with the complicated and tedious world of purchasing airline tickets and booking hotels. It’s also their job to know your destination inside and out. That means you avoid the awkwardness that can come with not knowing local customs like tipping and other forms of etiquette. They can tell you how (or whether) to haggle on prices such that you don’t come across as rude.

Moreover, they know what attractions are worth braving the crowds for, whether it makes sense to stay in the tourist area or outside the city center, and other insider tips. A great travel agent will likely know of small, “hidden gem” restaurants that are actually worth the hype, and not just tourist traps.

Finally, not only do they have that advice, they can make all the necessary reservations and arrangements to ensure your days are smooth and enjoyable. All you have to do is show up.

4: Con: There’s less room for flexibility

…but you do have to show up. Travel advisors are unparalleled when it comes to planning the perfect day, but they can’t see into the future. It’s impossible to plan for every eventuality. Say you visit the snorkeling school your travel agent booked for you and unlock a passion you never knew you had. You’re not going to be able to spend another couple of hours there without expensive changes to your itinerary. Want to order a second dessert at lunch? You’ll have to cancel the next activity—which your travel agent can certainly help with. For people who like to be spontaneous, it’s better to book fewer activities and instead arrive armed with a list of suggestions from your travel agent.

So are travel agents worth it? The answer is really: It depends. If you’re booking a fairly simple trip from Chicago to Tampa, you might save money taking care of it yourself. If you’re planning an extravagant adventure with several destinations, the right advisor can ensure it’s a magical experience. Even if you’ve got a smaller budget and a simpler itinerary in mind, a travel agent can help ensure you don’t miss out on the “must-see” items without spending more than needed.

Are you interested in booking with an agent? AAA members have access to local reliable travel agents across the country. Find one here .

Limited Time Offer!

Please wait....

Is Being a Disney Travel Agent Worth It? (Pros and Cons)

As a huge fan of Disney travel, I’ve always been curious about the career path of a Disney travel agent, even though I’m not one myself. Through my connections in the industry, I have many friends who have turned their passion for Disney into a fulfilling career as a travel agent. This has led me to wonder about the pros and cons of this job and whether being a Disney travel agent is worth it .

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explore the realities of working as a Disney travel agent, providing insights from experienced professionals to help you determine if this path is right for you .

Pros of Being a Disney Travel Agent

1. earning potential.

Disney travel agents can earn a good income , with full-time agents potentially making $50,000 or more per year . Your earning potential depends on factors such as the number of bookings you secure, the cost of the trips you book, and your commission split with your agency.

Disney typically pays travel agencies a commission ranging from 10% to 16% on the total cost of a vacation package. The agency then splits this commission with the individual agent.

Commission splits typically range from 50/50 for new agents to 80/20 for experienced agents, although some agencies may offer different splits. After subtracting the agency’s share of the commission, agents generally end up earning between 4% and 12.8% of the total cost of each trip booked.

For more information on Disney travel agent earning potential, check out our comprehensive guides on how much Disney travel agents make per year and how much they earn per booking .

To get a personalized estimate of your potential annual income, try our Disney Travel Agent Annual Income Calculator .

2. Turning Your Passion into a Career

One of the most significant advantages of being a Disney travel agent is the opportunity to turn your love for Disney into a career . Imagine spending your workdays planning magical vacations, sharing your knowledge, and helping others create unforgettable memories at Disney destinations. As a Disney enthusiast, the idea of immersing yourself in the world of Disney every day and making a living from it is incredibly appealing.

You’re already obsessed with Disney – Imagine getting paid for it!

Remember to keep things in perspective, though. Planning vacations day in and day out can be exciting, but burnout is a real possibility. Make sure that you’re not overdoing it to the point that you become jaded by something that you used to love.

3. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

As a Disney travel agent, you’ll often have the flexibility to set your own schedule and work from home . This can be especially appealing for those seeking a better work-life balance or looking to earn extra income while caring for family members. The ability to structure your day around your personal and family needs is a significant perk of this career.

Set up your workspace however you like it — it’s your home, after all!

Working from home offers flexibility, but it also requires self-discipline and the ability to manage time effectively. Because you’re working for commission only — no guaranteed salary — you need to keep at it in order to make a sustainable income. On the other hand, having clients calling, texting, and emailing from morning until night can creep into your “me time”; be sure to set some reasonable boundaries for your work schedule.

4. Travel Perks and Discounts

Many Disney travel agents have the opportunity to visit Disney destinations through FAM trips , which are familiarization trips provided by their agency. These trips allow agents to gain firsthand experience and knowledge, ultimately benefiting their clients. Agents may also receive free theme park tickets, discounts on personal travel, and other perks . The prospect of visiting Disney destinations as part of your job and taking advantage of exclusive discounts is an exciting bonus.

Setting sail on another research trip

You might even be able to take a tax deduction on some of your expenses. Note that this requires meticulous record-keeping and might necessitate hiring a CPA or other tax professional. Seek professional advice as we are not tax experts.

Cons of Being a Disney Travel Agent

1. variable, commission-based income.

Disney travel agents typically earn money through commissions rather than a fixed salary, which means your income can fluctuate based on the number of bookings you make and the cost of the trips you book. While it’s possible to earn a good income as a Disney travel agent, it’s not guaranteed .

Many agents book fewer trips than they hoped, especially early on. This makes it challenging to sustain a viable income. Building a consistent client base takes time and effort, which can be especially difficult for new agents. As a result, some may discontinue their career as a travel agent.

Even well-established agents are still subject to income fluctuation. You’ll likely see larger commission checks following the summer, spring break, and holiday travel periods — but should expect smaller checks in the off-season. Savvy budgeting is required so your income from the peaks can help carry you through the valleys.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for the potential ups and downs of a commission-based income , particularly in the early stages of your career when you’re still establishing your reputation and growing your client network.

2. High Competition

The Disney travel agent industry is highly competitive , with many agencies and agents competing for clients. Some elite agencies – such as The Vacationeer – invest in marketing and provide leads directly to their agents, while others have to find clients entirely on their own . To be successful, you’ll need to differentiate yourself through specialized knowledge, exceptional customer service, and effective marketing strategies.

Developing a strong personal brand and consistently promoting your services can be time-consuming and challenging, especially for new agents who are just starting to build their reputation and client base.

However, with hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for Disney, it’s possible to stand out in this competitive landscape and attract clients.

3. Delayed Payments

Another potential drawback is that Disney travel agents don’t receive their commissions until after their clients have completed their trips . This delay can be several months — even a year or more — after the initial vacation booking date, which can impact cash flow and budgeting.

This can make your first year as a vacation planner extremely challenging both financially and mentally. You probably won’t see steady income from the start, and it’s easy to get discouraged because you’re doing a lot of work and not getting paid (yet). Surviving your early years in the travel profession requires perseverance.

It’s crucial to consider this factor carefully before pursuing a career as a Disney travel agent.

4. Keeping Up with Changes

Disney destinations are constantly evolving, with new attractions, resorts, and policies being introduced regularly. As a Disney travel agent, you’ll need to stay up-to-date with these changes to provide accurate information and advice to your clients. It will require significant time investment and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt.

Those who are most successful in this job are people who aren’t intimidated by change. If you regularly get frustrated because something isn’t quite the way it used to be, this career might not be for you.

Personal Insights from Three Disney Travel Agents

Sarah, a full-time Disney travel agent for eight years, shares,

“Being a Disney travel agent has been a dream come true for me. I get to share my passion for Disney with others and help them create magical memories. The earning potential is great, and the flexibility allows me to balance my work and family life. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else!”

Darrian, who has been a Disney travel agent for three years, provides a more balanced view.

“Working as a Disney travel agent has its ups and downs. I love helping people plan their dream vacations, and the commission-based income can be rewarding. However, it’s important to understand that success doesn’t happen overnight. Building a client base takes time and effort, and the delayed payments can be challenging, especially in the beginning. Overall, it’s worth it, but only if you’re really passionate about Disney and are willing to put in the work.”

Charlene, another full-time Disney travel agent, shares her experience:

“I’ve been working as a Disney travel agent for five years, and last year I earned around $45,000. Building a strong network of clients and consistently delivering exceptional service has been key to my success. It’s important to remember that this career requires dedication and effort, but the rewards are worth it.”

Is Being a Disney Travel Agent Right for You?

If you have a genuine passion for Disney and enjoy helping others create magical vacations, then being a Disney travel agent could be the perfect career for you. However, it’s crucial to carefully consider both the pros and cons of this path, as well as the earning potential, and develop the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure you’re ready for the challenge.

Success as a Disney travel agent requires a combination of passion, knowledge, and business savvy. It’s important to be realistic about the challenges , such as commission-based income, delayed payments, and high competition. This career path also requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to delivering first-rate service. Networking and hustling are essential skills to have, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

In my interviews with Disney travel agents, they acknowledged the downsides but overall felt the career was worth it for those with a genuine passion for all things Disney and a willingness to put in the effort to succeed . They emphasized that these two factors were crucial for success in this field.

While being a Disney travel agent may not suit everyone, it can be an incredibly worthwhile and rewarding career for those who are willing to put in the effort and love Disney destinations. If you share this passion, are ready to work hard, and can effectively manage the challenges of working independently, then a career as a Disney travel agent might be the perfect fit for you!

Getting Started as a Disney Travel Agent

If you’re interested in becoming a Disney travel agent , here are some essential steps to get started:

• Research reputable Disney-focused travel agencies that offer competitive commission splits, comprehensive training, and support.
• Review the character traits of successful Disney travel agents to determine if you possess the necessary skills and qualities.
• Familiarize yourself with the job application process for Disney travel agents and tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience, knowledge, and passion for Disney.
• Invest in the necessary equipment for Disney travel agents , such as a reliable computer, high-speed internet, and a dedicated workspace.
• Continuously expand your knowledge of Disney destinations , products, and services to provide exceptional value to your clients.

Our Recommended Disney Travel Agencies to Work For

If you’re interested in becoming a Disney travel agent, the first step is to explore opportunities with reputable agencies. Our top picks are The Vacationeer and EnchantAway Travel .

EnchantAway Travel is an excellent option for those who want are brand new to the industry, and/or those who want to work part-time as a Disney travel agent. The agency offers flexibility and support to help you succeed.

The Vacationeer is a premium Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency, which is perfect for exceptional candidates who want to commit to full-time work and maximize their earnings.

Both agencies offer competitive commission splits of up to 80% , comprehensive training, and a strong focus on agent success.

We’re here to assist you in starting your travel agent journey. Click the button below to learn more about these two excellent Disney-focused travel agencies and receive our insider tips for making your application stand out from the rest .

With hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, you can turn your love for Disney into a satisfying and successful career.

Related Posts:

Share This Page: Choose Your Platform!

About the author: joshua powell.

Related Posts

Leave A Comment Cancel reply