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How to Become a Travel Agent and Work From Home

Author: Holly Reisem Hanna

June 1, 2023 Leave a Comment

Do you love to travel? Are you a master at finding great travel deals? Then, becoming a home-based travel agent might be your ideal work from home career path!

Working as a travel agent might seem outdated in today’s world of Kayak and Airbnb, but many people still prefer to work with travel agents.

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

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

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

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

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

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Successful Travel Agent?

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

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

Getting Started as a Work at Home Travel Agent

According to Host Agency Reviews , experienced travel agents make an average of $50,000 per year, and 25% of experienced agents earn $100,000 or more annually. Your earnings will depend on your experience, the number of clients you retain, hours worked, and commission and support from your host agency.

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

Remote Travel Agent and Consultant Jobs

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

To start, you may want to explore:

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

Exploring Host Agencies

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

• American Society of Travel Advisors
• Cruise Planners Franchise
• Disney Vacation Planner
• Dream Vacations Advisors
• Dugan’s Travel

How to Select a Great Host Agency

Travel agencies vary significantly in what they offer their consultants. Besides who offers the best commission, there are many other factors to consider.

For example, do you prefer a large agency or a small agency? Locally-based hosting can be easier for new agents who might need extensive support and training. On the other hand, national agencies may offer more flexibility and growth.

Carefully weigh your agency options and perform background research. Sites like Host Agency Reviews and Find a Host Travel Agency can help. They offer tips and ratings for finding the best travel agency that fits your needs.

Perks of Becoming a Travel Agent

Aside from being a fun business opportunity, being a travel agent offers some amazing perks.

If you enjoy travel, you might enjoy taking “FAM trips” or “familiarization trips” to various locales. Cruise lines, hotels, and tour guides know the best way for you to sell their services is for you to try them firsthand. So they offer perks, including complementary and deeply discounted fares, as well as opportunities to use their services and explore all your amazing options.

You can also save big on your own travel with great discounts! You’ll score awesome deals before anyone else even hears about them. As a travel agent, you’ll have access to discounts because, of course, the more you travel, the more business experience you rack up.

The best part? You can deduct those travel expenses from your taxes as part of your business! You can also deduct things like advertising and expenses related to your clients. This amounts to big tax savings for you!

Other Ways to Make Money in the Travel Industry

If you love the idea of working and traveling but you’re unsure about becoming a travel agent or consultant, there are many other options available.

Traveling to another country as an Au Pair is a great option if you enjoy working with children. When you work as an Au Pair, you’ll live with a family, helping them with household chores and childcare. In return, you’ll get free room and board and a small stipend that you can use on your days off. Being an Au Pair allows you to experience life in another country for an extended period of time. Becoming an Au Pair does come with some fees you’ll need to pay, such as your flights, travel visa, and insurance.

Customer Service Representative

Customer service is an excellent way to break into the travel industry and work from home! Many companies provide full training for these roles as well as a host of benefits. You can work for airlines, hotels, cruise lines, travel booking sites, and other travel-related sites and industries. For these work from home positions, you’ll generally need your own device (laptop or computer) and a high-speed internet connection. Check out this article for a list of hospitality companies that hire remote customer service reps.

ESL Teacher

You’ve probably heard of being an online ESL tutor , but did you know you can travel to another country to teach English as a second language? Most countries require ESL teachers to have a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Like being an Au Pair, there will be fees for your flights, travel visa, and insurance. Depending on which host company you use and which country to travel to, your housing may be free or purchased at a reduced cost. How much you can earn will vary as well. For more information on traveling and making money as an ESL tutor, check out the resources below.

• EF (Education First)
• International TEFL Academy
• Premier TEFL

Local Coordinator

If you enjoy working with high school and college students, consider becoming a local coordinator . In these independent contracting roles, you’ll work with educational organizations and programs to place and mentor students interested in foreign exchange programs. These part-time positions are a flexible and easy way to make extra money from home. Some programs also offer incentive trips and perks for their local coordinators.

• Education, Travel, and Culture – Earn $700-$1,600 per student
• International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) – Average earnings are $8,000 a year

Social Media Marketer Specializing in Travel

If you love to travel and you’re looking for ways to earn money from home, there are plenty of opportunities to take your travel beyond Instagram snaps and shares on Facebook… If you’re really great at social media, you could also become a social media manager in the travel industry! Many of these positions allow you to work from home for a travel-based company, sharing posts and connecting with their customers.

If you prefer to create your own schedule and be your own boss, become a local tour guide! With this idea, you’ll need to be in the know about the food, culture, and history of the area you’re helping tourists explore. With apps like  Showaround  and  Viator , you can create your tour, book customers, and make money from your travel expertise. You can also look at local tour operators and see if they have any openings for tour guides. Explore this article for more tips on making money as a tour guide .

Travel Writer

Magazines, guidebooks, and websites are often looking for freelance travel writers to contribute their experiences and give readers recommendations. If you have writing and communication skills and you travel often, this might be an excellent option for you.

The income for travel writers varies greatly, but many writers make great money by documenting and sharing their travels. Travel writers, according to ZipRecruiter , earn an average of $24 per hour. I think these numbers sound high, but I wasn’t able to find any other stats for how much travel writers really earn.

Travel Blogger

If you prefer to write and document your own travels, start a travel blog ! With blogging, you can make money with affiliate marketing, ad networks, sponsorships, product sales, and more! The great thing about blogging is it’s affordable and easy to set up, and there are many free ways to promote your content through social media. Amanda from A Dangerous Business Travel Blog documents how she makes money from her blog in this blog post , and she earned a multiple six-figure income in 2022 alone!

Travel Influencer

Have you been documenting your travels on social media? Then, make money while traveling the world as a social media travel influencer . Whether your specialty is Instagram , Pinterest, TikTok , or YouTube , you can earn good money through paid sponsorships, advertising, and affiliate marketing. Besides building an engaged audience of followers, you’ll need to become skilled at taking photos and videos, editing, and writing captions. How much you can earn as a travel influencer will depend on how many followers you have, your reach, your engagement, and which platforms you’re using. According to this article in Vogue , a travel influencer with 1-4 million followers can earn $31,000 per post!

Travel Nurse

If you’re a registered nurse , you can sign up to become a travel nurse. These nurses travel to areas where there are nursing shortages in work in a wide variety of settings. Nurses typically work in one location for 13-16 weeks, then move on to another location. Not only is travel nursing a great way to see the country, but it’s also lucrative. The average travel nurse can earn $59.66 per hour plus housing stipends. If you’re interested in travel nursing, check out these sites for assignments.

• Health Carousel Travel Nursing

Working From Home as a Travel Agent

If you have a passion for travel, there are many ways you can earn money working in the travel industry. From becoming a home-based travel agent to finding ways to document and share your own travel experiences—there’s an opportunity for every traveler out there. Explore your options and pack your suitcase! Check out this post if you’re looking for ways to make money while you travel the world!

Originally published February 25, 2009. Updated June 2024.

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About the Author

Holly Reisem Hanna

Holly Reisem Hanna is a former nurse who decided to start a blog to make money from home while caring for her daughter. Since its inception in 2009, The Work at Home Woman has helped millions of readers find legitimate work at home jobs and business ideas. Under Holly's guidance, The Work at Home Woman was named one of the best websites for your career by Forbes two years in a row. Holly graduated from the University of Texas and has been featured in Yahoo Finance, Woman’s World Magazine, CNN, and many others.

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6 Steps to Become a Travel Agent for Free in 2024

Written by: Author Debra Carpenter  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Debra Carpenter is a Nashville-based editor and content creator. Having written for respected publications like Forbes and HuffPost, she’s committed to bringing her passion for writing about travel to the masses... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

Posted on Last updated: September 29, 2023 - Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Learn more

It’s true – you can become a travel agent for free by working with a fee-free host agency as an independent agent. It’s easy to get started. Learn how below!

Why You Should Become a Travel Agent

fizkes/Shutterstock

The choice to become a travel agent can be a smart career move. The travel and tourism industry brings in a whopping $1.9 trillion annually, so if you’re after a slice of that pie, your earning potential could be great. 

Travel agents can earn anywhere from $46,000 to $66,000 per year on average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . 

If that sounds good, it’s time to start taking the idea of becoming a travel agent seriously and doing more research. That’s what this guide is all about!

Becoming a travel agent can be surprisingly simple once you’ve learned about the requirements and best ways to do business in this industry. 

If you have a background in any of the following industries, working as a travel agent might be a good fit:

• Marketing 
• Hospitality
• Customer service
• Event planning
• Project management
• Frequent personal travel
• Frequent business travel

With the right skillset, a high school diploma or GED, and reliable access to the internet, you can actually become an agent by working with a host agency. 

Can You Become a Travel Agent for Free?

Oleksii Didok/Shutterstock

It might sound too good to be true, but you can become a travel agent for free.

Most people who want to keep upfront costs low or free choose to start out working as an independent contractor under an existing travel agency, called a “host agency.”

Some host agencies offer new travel agent contractors access to free training, continuing education, marketing tools, client leads, and more.

With no or minimal licensing or certification requirements in most states, it’s easier than you think to become a travel agent. 

You just have to be careful about the host agency (HA) you sign up with and read all the fine print to ensure your training and certification won’t come with hidden costs. 

Becoming a travel agent for free requires you to do a little more research and reading to find the host agencies that genuinely offer their training and tools at no cost to new agents. 

If you can find the right host agency (we’ll show you how to do it), you can start your new career with no fees for registering, training, access to marketing and lead tools, and access to continuing education!

6 Steps to Become a Travel Agent for Free

If you’re interesting in becoming a travel agent for free, you’ll need to work as a hosted travel agent – an independent contractor that works under an accredited host agency to book travel for clients. 

So how does it work? The first step is browsing and locating a host agency that seems like a good fit for the type of travel you’re interested in selling and doesn’t charge startup or registration fees.

After that, you’ll apply as an independent contractor with a host agency that meets your criteria and start taking advantage of their mentoring and training programs to learn the ropes as a travel agent. 

Finally, you’ll begin working, generating client leads, and planning amazing trips for your clients under the host agency! Let’s take a closer look at how you can begin your journey in the travel industry.

1. Browse Host Agencies

Blue Planet Studio/Shutterstock

Browsing the different host agencies that are hiring independent contractors is your first step to becoming a travel agent for free. This is a big undertaking because there are so many HAs to choose from! 

Sites like Host Agency Reviews  are a great resource to find host agencies that specialize in your travel niche (if you’ll have one). Host Agency Reviews also holds regular webinars and virtual Q&A events that are invaluable for newbies in the industry.

You can also search online for host agencies with free training and no registration or startup fees.

Be diligent in your search because many host agencies offer free training, but will ask you to pay a one-time registration/startup fee, monthly/annual fees, or a combination of these.

We found that BNT Travel, LuxRally Travel, Andavo Travel, and Fora Travel are some good starting points for your search.

2. Review Host Agency Requirements

The next step to become a travel agent for free is reviewing the host agency’s requirements for new travel agents or advisors. The requirements differ by the agency, so take time to read through these criteria to see which agencies are a good fit. 

Some host agencies look for independent contractor travel agents with a strong background in sales from any industry, like real estate, pharma, vehicles, and even retail sales. 

Other agencies have stricter requirements and look for candidates with an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in the travel or tourism sector. 

Even if the host agency’s requirements are lax, you should consider how successful you’ll be in the role with your current skillset.

Some agencies supply you with client leads, while others expect you to generate your own leads through social media, email, in-person, and paid search marketing. 

This is a good time to look at the requirements a host agency has for their independent agents – monthly or annual sales goals, location requirements, insurance needs, and more. 

3. Familiarize Yourself With the Training Process

Every host agency has its own way of handling training and education for independent contractor travel agents. If you want to become a travel agent for free, you’ll need to work with a host agency that offers free training.

That free training usually takes place online with a mix of self-guided learning through prepared course modules and one-on-one video calls with an experienced travel agent. 

Training is typically done at your preferred pace, with the goal of earning 12-16 hours of training by the time you complete the courses and lessons. 

Continued education and training is offered by the best host agencies, giving you webinars, mentor programs, Q&A sessions, and additional certification programs you can choose to complete to further your career. 

4. Learn About the Host Agency Benefits

Once you’ve settled on a few host agencies that let you get started as a travel agent for free, it’s time to take a closer look at the benefits each one offers. 

Review the type of contract your preferred host agencies offer for new travel agents – fixed (such as 6 months or 1 year) or indefinite (no set contract length). 

For beginners, you’ll want to look at fixed contracts just in case you discover being a travel agent isn’t the right fit for you down the road. 

Some host agencies will cover your Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, give you access to the Global Distribution System (GDS), offer higher sales commissions than others, or include special marketing tools for you to use. 

It’s a good idea to look for host agencies offering at least 5% commission on domestic travel and 10% on international travel. You may find even higher commissions!

Don’t expect traditional employee benefits like health insurance or paid time off. As an independent contractor, you’ll be considered a freelancer or self-employed when you work under a host agency. 

5. Enroll in a Host Agency Training Program

By this point, you will have narrowed your focus to one or two host agencies that seem like a good fit. When you’re settled on the right host agency, visit their website to enroll in their free training program.

Every host agency handles this process differently, but take a look at LuxRally’s process for an idea of what to expect. 

• Enroll in the training program online
• Join a 15-minute phone call with the VP of Sales 
• If the agency wants to move forward, access to training is granted
• Complete 12-16 hours of training at your own pace
• Emerge as a certified and trained agent, ready to book clients and start earning

If your enrollment isn’t accepted or the agency doesn’t want to move forward, you can move down your list and try another travel agency with no fees. 

If you’re having trouble getting a yes from a host agency, consider doing some free training on your own to help your application stand out and broaden your skillset. 

6. Start Working as a Travel Agent

After you’ve enrolled and completed your free training as a travel agent, you may need to fill out 1099 tax forms and sign a written contract to join the team as an independent contractor. 

Depending on the host agency you’ve chosen, you may have access to free marketing tools and templates that can help you start finding travel clients right away. 

If you’re responsible for generating your own leads, there are many ways to do it for free. Social media, word of mouth, free business cards, and creating a free website to gather leads are all options when you get started. 

You’ll be able to use your training to help your new clients build the travel package that meets their needs. Each sale you make earns you commission, with most offering commission on:

• Vacation homes
• Rental cars
• Travel insurance

The more travel bookings you’re able to make as an independent contractor agent, the more money you’ll earn! You can start out part-time and work your way up to full-time once you’ve got a solid lead generation system. 

Do You Need a License to Become a Travel Agent?

You’ve discovered that you can become a travel agent for free, but do you need a license to get started? Not if you’re working as an independent contractor under a qualified host agency. 

There are only 4 states in the nation that require independent travel agents and agency owners to have a license, called a Seller of Travel (SOT) license.

If you’re an independent contractor operating under a licensed host agency (HA) and meet other criteria (more info below) as a sole proprietor, you will not need a license to become a travel agent. 

The Big Four SOT States® that require travel agent licensing are California, Florida, Hawaii, and Washington. Unlike real estate or cosmetology licenses, SOT licenses don’t require an exam or training. 

Instead, you’ll just fill out some paperwork, pay a state-specific fee, and obtain a Seller of Travel license number. If you start your own travel agency (no host agency) or plan on selling travel packages to people in any of the 4 SOT states, you’ll need this license. 

There are exemptions to the license for each state. Here’s a look at California’s SOT license exemptions – if you meet all of these criteria, you won’t need a SOT license to sell travel in California:

• You are a Sole Proprietor, single-member LLC, or single-shareholder S Corp
• You have a written contract with a host agency that holds a California SOT license
• You sell travel only t hrough your host agency using their accreditation number
• Your fees are processed through the host agency and never independently
• Your clients pay your host agency directly
• You disclose your host agency relationship and accreditation number to every travel customer

Florida, Hawaii, and Washington have slightly different, but very similar rules for SOT licensing when you’re operating under a host agency as an independent contractor. 

For more information, check out Seller of Travel license rules for California , Florida , Hawaii , and Washington next.

Things to Consider

Dragana Gordic/Shutterstock

The move to become a travel agent for free is an exciting one, but there are lots of things to keep in mind to ensure you don’t end up owing your host agency money or regretting your decision. 

Here are a few things to consider before you enroll with a host agency for free training!

• What’s your travel niche? Some travel agents offer their services to anyone and everyone, no matter what kind of trip they’re planning. Others focus on a travel niche, like adventure travel, multi-city travel, honeymoons, theme park vacations, and more. If you narrow your focus, you may have a better chance of reaching your target audience in the crowded online space.
• Is your host agency right for you? With so many host agencies out there, it can be overwhelming to sort through them all and choose the right one. Looking for agencies that don’t charge you any money to get started narrows the list considerably, but from there, you’ll want to look at lots of reviews from former and current agents to see if the overall view of the company is positive or negative. 
• Part-time or full-time? Getting started as a travel agent makes it tempting to quit your job and jump into this career feet-first, but that’s usually not the most successful way to do it. Most travel agents get started part-time and work up to full-time status as they nail down their lead generation methods and build a larger client base. 
• How often will you get paid? Host agencies have differing policies on payment, from payment methods to frequency. Most host agencies will offer payment via direct deposit, check, or wire transfer with options to get paid weekly or monthly. 
• What will you need to pay for later? While it’s not impossible to find host agencies that offer free training and don’t charge registration or startup fees, you may run into monthly or annual fees, travel membership fees, and software fees down the road. Be sure to get a clear understanding of what you’ll need to pay for later on so there are no surprises. 

Frequently Asked Questions

ESB Professional/Shutterstock

Learning how to become a travel agent for free often leads to a lot more questions. Check out some of the most common questions and concerns other people considering this career have to learn more! 

Is it expensive to become a travel agent?

It can be, but it’s possible to become a travel agent for free by working with host agencies that offer free training and don’t charge startup fees.

Otherwise, becoming a travel agent can cost anywhere from $190-$900. It all depends on the host agency you choose, whether or not you start your own travel agency, and which state you’re located in (which may require a Seller of Travel license).

How to make money as a free travel agent?

Travel agents working under a host agency typically don’t charge a direct fee to their clients, but instead earn commission from the travel bookings and insurance add-ons clients purchase.

Travel agents who own their own agency make money by securing exclusive discounts or earning commissions directly from airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and/or rental car companies.

How do I become a travel agent from scratch?

Finding a good host agency, enrolling in and completing their online training process, and completing some paperwork is really all it takes to become a travel agent from scratch.

In some states, including CA, FL, HI, and WA, you may need to obtain a Seller of Travel license unless your host agency has the proper accreditation.

You’ll want to have some marketing methods in place or use the tools offered by your host agency to start finding travel clients so you can earn money as a travel agent.

Do you need a license to be a travel agent in Ohio?

No, you don’t need a Seller of Travel (SOT) license to be a travel agent in Ohio. As long as you have a high school diploma or GED and meet the requirements of your host agency (if applicable), you can become a travel agent in Ohio.

If you plan on selling travel insurance, you may need an Ohio insurance license. Check out Ohio.gov for more information on insurance licensing in the state.

What qualifies as a travel agent?

A travel agent acts as the middle man between someone booking a trip or activities and the airline, hotel, cruise line, rental car company, etc. Travel agents typically earn a commission around 5-10% when helping clients book travel. To qualify as a travel agent, you may need a high school diploma/GED, sales and customer service skills, or additional licenses and certifications.

Take the Next Step Today!

Now that you understand the ins and outs to become a travel agent for free, you might be ready to take the next step: Finding the right host agency for you. 

Make sure to look over reviews for the host agencies you’re considering, prioritizing reviews from former and current agents with experience working under the agency. 

While you might be starting out as a part-time travel agent, the right skills, continuing education and certifications in the industry, and focusing on growing your clientele will make it possible to become a full-time travel agent at your own pace. 

And since you can become a travel agent for free, you’ve got nothing to lose – just a few training hours and commitment to making the most of this fulfilling, fun career! 

How to Become a Home-Based Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

Nothing feels better than being your own boss. ​In most fields, you need the infrastructure and support of a reputable corporation to reach anything beyond the low-hanging fruit. In the travel industry, things are changing—and if you move now, you can catch the wave.

While the industry used to be dominated by travel agencies, it is increasingly the domain of independent agents. Experienced agents already have the knowledge, training, and qualifications they need to professionally book travel arrangements for clients. According to a 2018 survey, 61% of these independent travel agents make between 10-30% more than when they worked for an agency, and 23.5% earn more than 30% more! The most attractive part of starting your own independent travel agency is the freedom to work for yourself, on your own hours, with your own clients, in your own home. But like all good things, independence comes with risks. As an independent travel agent, you have to assume the risks of entrepreneurship. You must also develop a personal brand that distinguishes you from other agents and from corporate agencies. The right tools and partnerships can empower you to overcome these obstacles and start working for yourself. Once you learn how to become a home-based travel agent, you will truly be able to enjoy your freedom and earn top commissions working directly with clients. You will be free to decide when, where, and for whom you work—and this guide will show you how.

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home in 3 Steps

If you have experience in the travel industry, then you're at a great advantage, however even if you're just starting, becoming your own agency breaks down to five crucial steps:

1. Find Your Grove

Customers look to independent travel agents for individualized customer service and niche expertise they can't get from a corporate agency. Although you may have experience with cruise lines, scuba trips, honeymoons, and adventure trips, you need to choose the types of travel experiences you're most familiar with and focus on them. Once you know what your preferred niche is, you need to learn everything there is to know about it. This could mean being an expert in a specific destination—in its local customs, cultures, languages, and tourist attractions—or being an expert in a particular type of vacation. In today's travel environment, we usually see the best results when independent agents combine different travel specialties to create a niche. For instance, combining scuba and cruise ship trips, or adventures and honeymoons. Whatever your combined niche is, your clients will expect you to have answers for all of their questions, so be prepared to deliver. The key to thriving as a home-based travel agent is knowing what your clients want and being able to deliver before they have to ask for it. Focusing on your niche allows you to deeply understand your clients and create a personal brand that speaks to their needs. Young, adventure-minded travelers, for instance, will respond to edgy, exciting brand messaging. Retired veterans, on the other hand, demand different treatment—you must know your client. As a home-based travel agent, you are directly responsible for your income. If you haven't brushed up on your sales skills, you may want to. Travel Quest World, EDGE, and regional travel conferences can help you create a solid foundation for your future. Not only must you make sales without the large corporate team backing you up, but you also have to tend to the needs of a more demanding customer base—people willing to pay extra for premium service.

2. Consider a Host Agency

Independent travel agents still need to use state-of-the-art technology to manage their customer relationships, make timely bookings, and track commissions accurately. You still need a top-shelf insurance policy to handle potential liabilities. Partnering with a host agency gives you access to these important tools and benefits. This is a secret that large corporate travel agencies don't want you to know. The truth is that becoming an independent travel agent doesn't mean you're completely on your own. The key to starting a successful travel agency while working from home is choosing the right host agency to collaborate with. The travel industry has evolved. Home-based independent travel agents are becoming the new norm because much of the time-consuming legwork that goes into making travel plans for clients can be streamlined and scaled using new technology. The same Internet that enables travelers to book their own flights and make their own travel arrangements also makes travel agents' jobs easier. And although it may seem counterintuitive, the hyper-connected Millennial generation actually relies on travel agencies more than previous generations do. This means that independent agents will spend less time typing code into a Global Distribution System (GDS) and more time talking to clients about exciting opportunities off-the-beaten-path. In fact, one in three leisure travel agents and one in five corporate travel agents prefer using the Internet to using a GDS. But there are still certain things you need to assure your new career as an independent travel agent is a successful one. Host agencies lay the groundwork for you to showcase your expertise and deliver value to travelers while retaining 100% ownership of your travel brand.

3. What to Look For in a Host Agency

Not many people will tell you that when you learn how to become an independent travel agent, what you're really learning is how to become your own sales team, your own customer support service, your own commission manager, and your own marketing expert. That's where having access to the powerful, intuitive tools host agencies make available becomes useful. Some of these tools include:

Web Development and Design. Having a state-of-the-art website is an absolute necessity for today's independent travel agents. Potential clients will be browsing your website to determine how professional and trustworthy you are. Host agencies can provide you with destination-specific content, booking engines, and special trip information that boosts your online presence significantly.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. You can't run your own home-based travel agency on Microsoft Excel. A professional host agency will provide you with a customized CRM solution that enables powerful, intuitive management of client profiles according to a variety of unique, indexed factors.

Commission Management and Accounting Tools. Independent travel agents need 24/7 access to an accounting platform that shows open invoices, close invoices, unpaid commissions, and more. Customized reporting lets you be your own accountant and stay on top of your financial situation with ease and accuracy.

Travel Agent Networking. When you work in a niche, your competition isn't so competitive anymore. Through your host agency, you can connect with other independent travel agents to cooperate, share contacts, and forge new relationships.

Which Host Agency is Best?

Choosing between host agencies for independent travel agents is one of the hardest decisions to make. Many organizations offer technical and marketing support to home-based travel agents, but not all of them represent an equal value. Dozens of these agencies exist, and each one offers different benefits and drawbacks to its network of independent travel agents. To choose the right one for you, follow these guidelines:

Identify What You're Looking For. Your host agency should complement your strengths and compensate for your weaknesses. If you're great at connecting with clients but not so experienced with customer management support and marketing, those would be the areas you want to focus on.

Ask for References. Remember that as an independent agent, you are interviewing hosts, not the other way around. Find other agents who are working with the host in question and find out what they have to say about the host's resources and offerings.

Look Beyond the Commission Split. Your commission split is just a small part of the overall equation that will determine your success as a home-based travel agent. The best host travel agency is not necessarily the one that offers the best split, but that offers the best value.

Choose a Pure Host Agency. Not all host agencies are really host agencies. Most retail travel agencies offer a few home-based travel agent jobs with commissions. A few of them believe this lets them describe themselves as host agencies—which they are not.

If an agency runs its own internal sales process parallel to yours, that creates a conflict of interest.

Is Travel Quest Network the Right Host Agency for You?

When you want to learn how to become a travel agent from home, you need to approach every relationship you build from a place of honesty and professionalism. When you run your own company and put your name on the line, your reputation takes the hit when things don't go as planned. As a result, it pays to spend time interviewing host agencies and finding the right one to fit your needs. When you're learning how to become a home-based travel agent, remember that the best host travel agency is the one that gives you the tools and knowledge you need to maximize the success of your independent business. Ready to take the first step towards financial independence as a home-based travel agent? Talk to Travel Quest Network today and we'll show you how to get started.

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How to Become a Travel Agent Online

Last Updated: October 23, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Greg Guiteras . Greg Guiteras is the CEO of Lorraine Travel, LLC, one of the largest privately-owned travel management companies in Florida founded in 1948. With over 34 years of experience, Greg's specialties are in corporate travel management, sales and marketing, contract negotiations, strategic partnerships, and luxury hotel sales. Greg holds a BS in Marketing from Florida State University. Greg has also created WhataHotel!, a website offering exclusive perks on hotel bookings, and CabinMate, an app that matches single cruise travelers with potential cabin matches "in the same boat" to avoid traveling solo on a cruise. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 25 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 574,964 times.

Being an online travel agent has become a popular stay-at-home job over the years. There are numerous Internet travel agencies that offer training, certifications and the opportunity to start your own travel agency. With so much competition to face online, a smart tactic is to specialize in certain types of travel or destinations so you can market yourself as an expert. Before you start your very own agency, however, it is recommended that you start your career as an independent contractor for an established host agency so you can learn the ins and outs with minimal startup costs and less financial risk.

Things You Should Know

• Figure out what you want to specialize in as a travel agent and what sort of client base you want.
• Get established by creating a budget and learning about the industry before coming up with a business name, and registering your company.
• You could sign up with a host agency instead, doing research to determine which one is best suited to your skills and interests.

Determining Your Specialty in the Travel Market

• Two distinct types of travel agents are “corporate” and “leisure” agents. The former makes arrangements for companies whose personnel who must travel for their work. The latter books personal vacations for individuals. [2] X Research source
• Leisure agents may specialize in terms of themes (such as adventure or romantic getaways), destinations (with a thorough knowledge and plenty of advice for their customers), or clientele (catering to those traveling on a budget or those with unlimited means). [3] X Research source

• If fine wine is on your list of interests, pair it with areas on your list of destinations that include wine countries, such as France, Italy, or California.
• London would be an area to focus on if you have a passion for English literature.
• If you are obsessed with great white sharks, think about Australia, Baja, and South Africa.

• Contact other travel agents for quotes to get a rough idea of the going price for the sort of dream trips you would like to offer your own clients.
• Use this price information to determine what sort of income your clients would need to afford these trips.
• Factor in any age restrictions that may further narrow your potential client list down. A wine-tasting tour, for example, would most likely eliminate families traveling with children, while cage-diving with sharks might appeal more to younger adults than senior citizens.

Laying the Groundwork for Your Business

• Training and certification
• Registering as a business

• GT Trends, Traverse, and YTP Travel Network are prominent professional networks in the industry.
• Trade-specific publications include Agent@Home, Recommend, Travolution, Travel Agent Central, and Travel Trade.

• For example, let’s say that you personally share the same name as Donald Trump. Since a Google search will bury any mention of you online under a million other sites regarding the Don, come up with a business name that does not incorporate your own name in any way.
• Including the core concept of your speciality in your business name can increase its prominence in keyword searches for those terms. For example, “California Wine Tours” is self-explanatory as well as being the exact phrase someone would Google to find more information about that topic. [8] X Research source

• Such registrations as DBA’s are often what is meant by a “travel agent license.” In this sense of the word “license,” you are essentially paying a nominal fee and filling out some paperwork in order to work from a residence, as opposed to taking classes and passing exams in order to earn a driver’s license.

• These steps are not strictly necessary to start your business, but will help keep you organized.

• Use social media like Facebook and Twitter to link your business to your existing contacts. Increase your visibility. Ask them to like your website and share your posts so others in their network see you in their own feeds.
• Ask people you know to refer potential customers to you. Encourage them by offering prizes or thank-you gifts for referrals who end up booking trips with you.

Joining a Host Agency

• Community support
• Lower overhead

• What sort of commission they offer and the method of payment.
• Which software programs you will need and whether they offer a discount if you purchase the tech through them instead of the open market.
• The amount of training that is required and what amount of continued education is offered after that.
• What sort of community support is offered between you, other independent contractors, and the agency itself.
• Exactly how much you will be charged to sign up, as well as any fees that may be required later on.

• Would you rather work for a large company with extensive resources, or a smaller one with DIY spirit and more intimate connections between workers?
• Are you fine working remotely with people you will never meet, or would you rather work for a local business that occasionally gets together?
• Does the training that they offer seem to cover everything you need to learn, or do you feel that you will still be overwhelmed afterward?

• Courses may be designed to be entirely online, by correspondence, or a combination of the two.
• Certification is not a legal requirement to be a travel agent, so if the host agency does not offer their own certification process, you can still apply and possibly be hired. If you wish to work for this specific company and boast about being certified at the same time, you can seek certification through organizations like the Travel Institute.

Community Q&A

Things You’ll Need

• Internet access
• Fax machine
• There are a number of host travel agencies that offer questionable business opportunities. Warning signs include promises about great financial rewards (like 100% commission) with little or no training required. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://hostagencyreviews.com/find-a-travel-niche/
• ↑ https://collegegrad.com/careers/travel-agents
• ↑ http://www.theworkathomewoman.com/travel-agent/
• ↑ http://www.outstandingcolleges.com/become-travel-agent/
• ↑ http://hostagencyreviews.com/starting-a-travel-agency-from-home/
• ↑ https://www.eonetwork.org/octane-magazine/special-features/choosingtherightnameforyouronlinebusiness
• ↑ http://hostagencyreviews.com/7-benefits-of-using-a-host-agency/
• ↑ http://hostagencyreviews.com/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency/

About This Article

To become a travel agent online, start by choosing an area to specialize in since it will make you more competitive, like romantic getaways or corporate traveling. If you're not sure what to specialize in, think about your interests and hobbies or destinations you've been to and use those to help you choose. Once you know what kind of travel agent you want to be, you can register your business and start building a client list. If you don't have a lot of experience, you may want to work as an independent contractor for an online travel agency for a little while to learn the ropes. To learn how to find a job working for an online travel agency, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Your First Steps to Establishing a Home-Based Travel Agency

In recent times, there's no denying the skyrocketing interest in the tourism industry – changing economies, evolving market trends, and the allure of fresh experiences have all played their part. One trend that has emerged from these changes? More and more people are opening their home-based travel agencies. But how does one become a travel agent from the comfort of one's own home? Below, we break down the steps to establishing a successful work-from-home travel agent business with Gateway Travel.

Exploring The Potential of A Work from Home Travel Agent Business

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it's crucial to understand what you're getting into when you decide to start a travel business. The world of tourism is an ever-evolving beast, and becoming a travel agent offers a unique opportunity to tap into this exciting industry – from the comfort of your own home.

Working as a home-based travel agent not only provides amazing flexibility but also opens a world brimming with potential. You get to design unique travel experiences, collaborate with industry leaders, stay updated on latest trends, and carve out a profitable business without stepping out of your home.

Understanding What Becoming a Travel Agent Entails

To set up a home-based travel agency, you need more than just a love of travel. It involves an understanding of clients' needs, knowing your travel products, mastering sales strategies, and being a problem solver.

Firstly , you need to know your customers. Understanding their needs, tastes, and budget is key to providing a service that will leave them thrilled.

Secondly , understanding the travel products holds particular importance. This refers to knowing the details about various accommodations, modes of transportation, local attractions, travel insurance, and more.

Thirdly , you need to master your sales strategies: how do you sell your products to potential clients in a manner that's convincing but not pushy? How do you negotiate the best deals for your clients?

Lastly , being a problem solver is important. Travel plans can have hiccups, and you need to ensure you're there for your clients' when they encounter any problems on their trip.

Gateway Travel: Your Partner In This Journey

Starting a home-based travel agency might seem like an overwhelming task, but you don't have to do it alone. With Gateway Travel, you're supported every step of the way.

Gateway Travel offers a comprehensive partnership program that guides you through establishing your own business, providing an extensive resource database, marketing support, tech tools, and a robust, user-friendly booking portal.

The Road to Becoming a Travel Agent

Now that we've covered the basics, here are the practical steps to setting up your home-based travel business:

1. Get educated: Before you start your travel business, it's essential to build a foundation of knowledge in the industry. Various courses and certifications can equip you with the skills needed to excel in this field.

2. Choose a niche: The next step is to decide on your niche – your area of focus or specialty as a travel agent. Your niche could be anything from luxury cruises to hiking tours, destination weddings, or eco-tourism.

3. Create a business plan: Once you've identified your niche, formulate a business plan. This document will serve as a roadmap for your business, outlining objectives, strategies, budgeting, and other crucial aspects of your venture.

4. Register your business: Register your home-based travel agency with your relevant local and national authorities. Each country and region may have different laws and regulations regarding this.

5. Partner with Gateway Travel: At this stage, joining a host agency like Gateway Travel becomes an essential step. They’ll provide you with the tools, resources, and guidance needed to kick-start your business successfully.

6. Market Your Business: Finally, create a brand, set up a website, leverage social media platforms, and employ other digital marketing strategies to make your services known to potential clients.

Final Thoughts

When you're all set up and running, you'll quickly see how rewarding and exciting becoming a travel agent can be. Yes, it's a challenging journey, but thanks to companies like Gateway Travel, it's a journey that can be navigated smoothly. They provide all the resources, including their in-depth knowledge, accessible tools, and a supportive community, helping you every step of the way.

Working from home as a travel agent is a promising and flexible opportunity in the dynamic tourism industry, combining a love for travel with a profitable pursuit. Ready to embark on your journey? Start building your successful home-based travel agency today!

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Become a Travel Agent from Home: Ultimate Guide (2023)

Have you ever considered becoming a travel agent? If you love to travel and have a passion for helping others plan their dream vacations, then becoming a travel agent may be the perfect career for you. 

And the best part? You can do it all from the comfort of your own home!

Thanks to modern technology and the rise of online booking platforms, it’s easier than ever to become a travel agent from home. Whether you’re looking to start your own travel business or work for an established agency, there are plenty of opportunities available to you.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to become a successful travel agent from home. From the skills and training you’ll need to the tools and resources that will help you succeed, I’ll cover it all. 

So, if you’re ready to turn your love of travel into a rewarding career, read on to learn more.

Table of Contents

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent from home, there are a few steps you can take to make it happen.

1. Decide on Your Business Model

The first thing you need to do is decide on your business model. You can either start your own travel agency or work with a host agency. 

Starting your own agency gives you more control over your business, but it also requires more work and investment. Working with a host agency can be a good option if you’re just starting out and want to learn the ropes.

FYI: It may seem obvious but creating your own website for your new business is a must these days.

Luckily, it’s super easy (and cheap!) to do even if you have no tech experience. My top pick for getting started with this,  Bluehost , costs  less than $3 per  month – which includes a free domain name!

From there, you can have your site up and running in literally less than 20 minutes – just by following  our step-by-step guide to launching your own site .

2. Get the Necessary Training

Once you’ve decided on your business model, you’ll need to get the necessary training. While you don’t need a degree to become a travel agent, it’s a good idea to take courses in travel and tourism, business, and marketing. 

You can take courses online or in-person through various organizations such as the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) or the Travel Institute.

3. Build Your Network

Building a network is crucial to becoming a successful travel agent. You’ll need to establish relationships with suppliers, such as hotels and airlines, and with clients. 

Joining industry associations, attending trade shows, and networking with other travel agents can all help you build your network.

4. Choose Your Niche

Choosing a niche can help you stand out in a crowded market. You can specialize in a certain type of travel, such as luxury or adventure travel, or focus on a specific demographic, such as families or retirees.

5. Get Licensed and Certified

Depending on where you live, you may need to get licensed to operate as a travel agent. You’ll also need to get certified by industry organizations such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

By following these steps, you can become a travel agent from home and start your own successful business. Remember to stay up-to-date with industry trends and continually work on building your network and honing your skills.

Related: 7 Easy Steps to Become a Disney Travel Agent

Is Becoming a Home Based Travel Agent a Good Idea?

If you love to travel and have a passion for helping others plan their dream trips, becoming a home based travel agent may be a great career choice for you. One of the biggest advantages of becoming a home based travel agent is the flexibility it offers. 

You can set your own schedule and work from anywhere with an internet connection. This means you can work from home, a coffee shop, or even while traveling yourself. 

Plus, this can be a great full-time or part-time online job , depending on your personal goals and needs.

Another advantage of becoming a home based travel agent is the low start-up costs. Unlike many other businesses, you don’t need a lot of money to get started as a travel agent. 

In fact, you can often get started with just a computer, internet connection, and a phone.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that becoming a home based travel agent also comes with its challenges. For example, you’ll need to be self-motivated and disciplined to succeed. 

You’ll also need to be comfortable with sales and marketing, as you’ll need to attract clients and promote your services.

Additionally, the travel industry can be unpredictable and subject to sudden changes. This means you’ll need to be able to adapt quickly and stay up-to-date on the latest travel trends and regulations.

Overall, becoming a home based travel agent can be a great idea if you’re passionate about travel and enjoy helping others plan their dream trips. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and make sure it’s the right career choice for you.

Related: 41 Best Online Jobs for Stay at Home Moms

What are the Disadvantages of Being a Travel Agent?

While there are many benefits to being a travel agent, there are also some disadvantages that you should be aware of before pursuing this career path.

• Long and irregular hours: As a travel agent, you may have to work long and irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, to accommodate your clients’ schedules. This can make it difficult to maintain a work-life balance.
• High stress levels: The job of a travel agent can be very demanding and stressful, especially during peak travel seasons. You may have to deal with difficult clients, last-minute changes to travel plans, and unexpected problems that arise during a trip. This means that if you want a slow paced job , it’s probably best to look elsewhere.
• Competition: The travel industry is highly competitive, and there are many travel agents vying for the same clients. This means that you’ll need to work hard to establish yourself as a trusted and reliable travel agent.
• Technology: With the rise of online booking platforms and travel apps, more and more people are booking their own travel arrangements. This means that travel agents need to be tech-savvy and up-to-date with the latest technology in order to stay competitive.
• Low pay for some: While some travel agents can earn a good income, many others struggle to make ends meet. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for travel agents was $40,660 as of May 2020.

Despite these challenges, many people find the rewards of being a travel agent to be well worth the effort. 

If you’re passionate about travel and enjoy helping others plan their dream vacations, then becoming a travel agent may be the perfect career for you.

Can You Make Money at Home as a Travel Agent?

Yes, you can definitely make money as a travel agent working from home. As a travel agent, you can earn money through commissions on bookings you make for clients. The commission rates vary depending on the supplier, but they can range from 10% to 25%. 

This means that for every booking you make, you can earn a percentage of the total cost of the trip. 

However, it’s important to note that becoming a successful travel agent from home requires hard work and dedication. You’ll need to build a network of clients and suppliers, stay up to date on industry trends and regulations, and provide excellent customer service to ensure repeat business. 

One way to increase your earning potential as a travel agent is to specialize in a particular niche , such as luxury travel or adventure travel. By focusing on a specific market, you can become an expert in that area and attract clients who are willing to pay a premium for your expertise. 

Another way to boost your income is to join a host agency , which can provide you with training, marketing support, and access to exclusive supplier relationships. Host agencies typically take a percentage of your commission earnings in exchange for their services, but many agents find that the benefits outweigh the costs. 

So, in conclusion: yes, you can make money as a travel agent from home. It requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt to the ever-changing travel industry. 

But for those who are passionate about travel and helping others plan their dream vacations, it can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice.

Find out more about: 40 Best Stay-at-Home Dad Jobs (to Make Great Money)

How Much Money Can You Make as an Online Travel Agent?

As an online travel agent, your income potential can vary depending on your level of experience, education, and the amount of time and effort you put into your business. According to the latest Bureau of Labor and Statistics data, travel agents make a median annual wage of $40,660. 

However, the entire wage earnings from the most recent data available span from $23,660 average for those in the bottom 10% of earners to $69,420 average for those in the top 10% of earners.

It’s important to note that as an online travel agent, your income may not be consistent from month to month. Your earnings will depend on the number of clients you have and the commissions you receive from the travel suppliers you work with. 

Keep in mind as well that some travel agents work on a commission-only basis, while others may charge a fee for their services. That is why some are making $3,000 a month from home – if not more!

One advantage of working as an online travel agent is that you have the potential to earn somewhat passive income. That is, once you’ve established a client base, you can earn commissions on their travel bookings without having to actively seek out new clients – although, yes, it’s not entirely passive given that you still have to manage their bookings for them. 

Additionally, some travel suppliers offer bonuses and incentives to travel agents who book a certain number of trips or reach specific sales goals.

Overall, the amount of money you can make as an online travel agent is largely dependent on your own efforts and the travel industry as a whole. By staying up-to-date on industry trends and providing excellent customer service, you can increase your earning potential and build a successful online travel agency.

How Do Most Travel Agents Get Paid?

One of the most important things to consider when starting a career as a travel agent is how you’ll get paid. Most travel agents earn money through commissions, which are paid by travel suppliers such as airlines, hotels, and tour operators. These commissions can range from 10% to 20% of the total cost of the travel package.

Some travel agents also charge service fees to their clients in addition to earning commissions. These fees can vary depending on the services provided and the complexity of the travel arrangements. 

For example, a travel agent may charge a fee for booking a complicated itinerary that involves multiple flights and hotels.

Another way that travel agents can earn money is through selling travel insurance. Many travel suppliers offer travel insurance as an add-on to their travel packages, and travel agents can earn a commission on these sales as well.

It’s important to note that the amount of money that a travel agent can earn can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of travel being booked, the commission rates offered by travel suppliers, and the travel agent’s level of experience and expertise. 

However, with hard work and dedication, it’s possible to build a successful career as a travel agent and earn a good income.

Do Travel Agents Get Commission on Travel Insurance?

Yes, travel agents do get commission on travel insurance, and it can be one of the biggest sources of commission revenue. In fact, travel agents can earn between 20-40% commission on travel insurance policies, depending on the policy. This means that if you sell a travel insurance policy that costs $1000, you’ll earn between $200-$400 in commission.

One of the benefits of earning commission on travel insurance is that the commission is paid to the agent before the client travels. This means that you don’t have to wait until after the trip is completed to receive your commission, which can be a great advantage for your cash flow.

It’s important to note that not all travel insurance policies offer the same commission rates. Some policies may offer a higher commission rate, while others may offer a lower rate. 

This is why you should do your research and compare different policies to find the best options for your clients and your business.

Is a Travel Agent a Good Side Hustle?

If you’re looking for a side hustle, becoming a travel agent can be a great option. As a travel agent, you can work from home and set your own hours, making it a flexible job that can fit around your other commitments. Plus, you get to help people plan their dream vacations!

One of the biggest advantages of becoming a travel agent is that you can earn commission on the trips that you book for your clients. This means that the more bookings you make, the more money you can earn. 

And because you can work from home, you don’t have to worry about the overhead costs of running a brick-and-mortar travel agency.

Of course, like any side hustle, becoming a travel agent does require some work. You’ll need to invest time and effort into building your client base and learning about the travel industry. 

But if you’re passionate about travel and enjoy helping others plan their trips, it can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle.

One thing to keep in mind is that the travel industry can be unpredictable and is definitely seasonal, meaning there’ll likely be times when business is slow. However, with the right marketing strategies and networking skills, you can build a steady stream of clients and keep your side hustle profitable.

Overall, though, if you’re looking for a flexible and rewarding side hustle, becoming a travel agent can be a great option. With the ability to work from home and earn commission on your bookings, it’s a job that can provide both financial and personal fulfillment.

What Does an Online Travel Agent Do?

As an online travel agent, your primary responsibility is to help your clients plan and book their travel arrangements. This includes researching and booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel-related services. You’ll also be responsible for providing your clients with advice and recommendations on destinations, activities, and attractions. 

This requires a deep understanding of the travel industry, as well as an ability to communicate effectively with clients to understand their preferences, budget, and other requirements.

One of the key advantages of being an online travel agent is the ability to work from home. This means that you can set your own hours and work around your other commitments, such as family or other work obligations. 

Additionally, you can work with clients from all over the world, which can be a great way to expand your business and build your reputation as a travel expert.

However, working as an online travel agent also requires a great deal of self-discipline and organization. You’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively, as well as stay up-to-date with the latest travel trends and developments. 

You’ll also need to be able to market your services effectively to potential clients, which may require a strong social media presence, a professional website, and other marketing strategies.

You may also be interested in: 27 Legitimate Stay at Home Jobs That Pay Well

Is it Hard to be an Independent Travel Agent?

Being an independent travel agent can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. You have the flexibility to work from home, set your own hours, and be your own boss. However, it requires dedication and hard work to build a successful business. 

One of the biggest challenges of being an independent travel agent is finding clients. You’ll need to market yourself and your services to attract new customers. 

This can be done through social media, networking, and word of mouth. It’s important to have a strong online presence and a website that showcases your expertise and services. 

Another challenge is staying up-to-date with the latest travel trends and destinations. You’ll need to research and stay informed on the best deals, travel packages, and experiences to offer your clients. 

This requires a lot of time and effort, but it’s essential to provide the best service possible. 

Additionally, you’ll need to have excellent communication and customer service skills. You’ll be responsible for booking flights, hotels, and activities for your clients, and you’ll need to ensure that everything runs smoothly. This requires attention to detail and the ability to handle any issues that may arise. 

Overall, being an independent travel agent can be challenging, but it’s also a fulfilling and exciting career. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful business and help others create unforgettable travel experiences.

Do You Need Money to Start a Travel Agency?

The good news is that the startup costs for a travel agency range from about $2,000 to $10,000, with an average of around $6,000. The high-end includes the rental of office space and a larger marketing budget, but you could easily run your online travel agency from home to cut costs.

In fact, one of the biggest advantages of starting a travel agency from home is that you can keep your overhead low. You don’t need to pay for office space, which can be a significant expense for many businesses. 

Instead, you can work from home and use your existing computer and internet connection to get started. You can also make it a part-time job that you can do with a baby .

Of course, there are still some costs associated with starting a travel agency from home. You’ll need to invest in some basic equipment and software, such as a computer, printer, and travel booking software. 

You may also need to pay for a website, marketing materials, and other expenses related to starting a business.

But, overall, starting a travel agency from home can be a great way to turn your passion for travel into a profitable business. With low startup costs and the ability to work from home, it’s a flexible and affordable business idea that’s worth considering.

Related: 36 Legit Work at Home Jobs That Provide Equipment

Is Becoming a Travel Agent Expensive?

Whether or not becoming a travel agent is expensive depends on your approach and goals. If you’re looking to start your own travel agency, you can expect to invest some money upfront. This includes expenses such as licensing, insurance, marketing materials, and technology.

However, if you’re looking to become a travel agent without starting your own agency, the costs can be much lower. Many travel agencies offer training programs that can help you get started in the industry. 

Some of these programs may have a fee, but it’s typically much lower than the cost of starting your own agency. 

Another factor to consider is ongoing expenses. As a travel agent, you’ll need to stay up-to-date on industry trends and regulations. This may require ongoing training and education, which can come with a cost. 

So while becoming a travel agent can require some investment, it doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. By carefully considering your goals and options, you can find a path that works for you and your budget.

Find out more about: 28 Best Summer Jobs for Teachers to Earn Extra Money

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Travel Agent?

While there are some expenses involved, becoming a travel agent can be fairly affordable, with the costs varying depending on how you do this. Some people choose to work independently, while others join a host agency. If you decide to work independently, you’ll need to cover all of your own expenses, including training, marketing, and business licensing fees. 

These expenses can add up quickly, and you should expect to spend several thousand dollars to get started. 

On the other hand, if you choose to join a host agency, the cost to become a travel agent can be much lower. Host agencies typically provide training, marketing support, and other resources to help you get started.

Some host agencies may charge an upfront fee, while others may take a percentage of your commissions. You should research different host agencies to find one that fits your budget and provides the support you need. 

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home for Free

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent from home but don’t want to spend a lot of money on training or certification, there are still ways to get started in the industry for free. Here are a few tips:

• Research the industry: Start by doing some research on the travel industry to get a better understanding of what being a travel agent entails. Look for online resources, such as blogs or forums, where you can connect with other travel agents and learn from their experiences.
• Find a host agency: Many travel agents work with host agencies, which provide support and resources for independent agents. Look for host agencies that offer free training, marketing materials, and other resources to help you get started.
• Take advantage of free webinars and courses: Many travel companies and organizations offer free webinars and courses on a variety of topics related to the travel industry. These can be a great way to learn more about the industry and improve your skills.

While it’s possible to become a travel agent from home for free, keep in mind that you may need to invest some time and effort into building your business. This may include networking with other travel professionals, building a website or social media presence, and finding clients. 

However, with dedication and hard work, it’s possible to build a successful travel business from home without spending a lot of money.

Do You Need Qualifications to Be a Travel Agent?

If you want to work for an established travel agency, you’ll likely need to have some qualifications. Most travel agencies require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, having a degree in hospitality, tourism, or a related field can give you an edge over other candidates. 

Additionally, some travel agencies may require specific certifications or training programs, such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test offered by The Travel Institute. 

On the other hand, if you want to start your own travel agency from home, you may not need any specific qualifications. However, having experience in the travel industry, as well as a passion for travel, can be beneficial. 

You’ll also need to have strong organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to market and sell your services effectively. 

It’s important to note that while qualifications can be helpful, they are not the only factor that determines success as a travel agent. Building relationships with clients, having a strong network of suppliers and vendors, and staying up-to-date on industry trends and news are all critical components of a successful travel agent’s business. 

This means that while having qualifications can be beneficial, they are not always necessary to become a successful travel agent. With the right skills, experience, and passion, you can build a thriving travel agency from the comfort of your own home.

Do Travel Agents Have to Find Their Own Clients?

Yes, you travel agents have to find their own clients, but it’s not as daunting as it might sound. That is, many travel agents work for host agencies, often have established relationships with suppliers, such as cruise lines and tour operators, which can help you find clients. 

Host agencies are companies that provide support and resources to independent travel agents. They may also provide marketing and sales support, such as website templates and email newsletters, to help you promote your business and attract clients.

However, it’s still important to develop your own client base. This can be done through networking, referrals, and social media. You can also attend travel trade shows and events to meet potential clients and suppliers.

One way to attract clients is to specialize in a particular type of travel, such as luxury cruises or adventure travel. By becoming an expert in a specific area, you can differentiate yourself from other travel agents and attract clients who are interested in that type of travel.

How to Get Clients as a Travel Agent

As a travel agent, getting clients is essential to building a successful business. Here are some tips on how to attract and retain clients:

• Build a network: Start by reaching out to friends, family, and acquaintances. Let them know that you’re a travel agent and that you can help them plan their next trip. Word of mouth is a powerful tool, so encourage your satisfied clients to refer their friends and family to you.
• Utilize social media: Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are great tools for promoting your business. Share photos and information about your travel packages and services, and engage with your followers by responding to their comments and messages.
• Partner with other businesses: Partnering with other businesses such as hotels, airlines, and tour operators can help you reach a wider audience. Offer special deals and packages for their customers, and ask them to promote your services in return.
• Attend travel events: Attend trade shows, conferences, and other travel events to network with other travel professionals and potential clients. Be sure to bring business cards and other promotional materials to hand out.
• Offer exceptional customer service: Providing excellent customer service is key to retaining clients and getting referrals. Be responsive, friendly, and knowledgeable, and go the extra mile to ensure that your clients have a great experience.

By implementing these strategies, you can build a loyal client base and grow your travel agent business from home.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Travel Agent?

If you’re considering becoming a travel agent, there are a few things you should know before diving in. While it can be a rewarding career, it’s important to understand the realities of the job.

First and foremost, becoming a travel agent requires a lot of hard work and dedication . It’s not just about booking trips and earning commissions. You’ll need to be knowledgeable about destinations, sales, itinerary planning, and booking software. 

In addition, you’ll need to be able to market yourself and your services effectively.

It’s also important to understand that the travel industry is constantly changing. New destinations are emerging, travel trends are evolving, and new technologies are being introduced. 

As a travel agent, you’ll need to stay up-to-date with these changes in order to provide your clients with the best possible service.

Another thing to consider is that the travel industry can be highly competitive . There are many travel agents out there, and you’ll need to find a way to stand out from the crowd. 

This may mean specializing in a particular type of travel, such as luxury or adventure travel, or focusing on a particular demographic, such as families or retirees.

Finally, it’s important to understand that becoming a travel agent will require an investment of time and money . You’ll need to complete training programs and obtain any necessary certifications. 

You’ll also need to invest in marketing materials, such as a website and business cards, and possibly even office space.

Overall, becoming a travel agent can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. However, it’s important to understand the realities of the job and be prepared to put in the necessary work and investment to succeed.

Anna is the founder of LogicalDollar and a personal finance expert, having been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Reader’s Digest, Bankrate, MSN Money, Yahoo! Finance, CreditCards.com and many more. With more than 10 years of experience in the financial and legal industries, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in these fields, as well as her own journey in turning $60,000 in debt into a thriving investment portfolio, she’s committed to helping others get on the path to financial freedom.

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It's Official, Our  Leads Program and Booking Portal With Over 750,000 Hotels Has Launched For Our Agents. Learn More

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Free Travel Agent Training

Program Overview

Our training is entirely free for those accepted into our program. It is extensive, taking between 50-80 hours to complete, and yes, you can fail. Our system is designed to remove those who are not serious about earning six or seven figures as a travel agent. Upon graduation, you will join a collaborative team and gain access to extensive resources for continued education. Most importantly, you will be a fully licensed agent able to earn commission on something everyone does: travel.

This is a commission-only based 1099 contract. While we will be here to train you and give pointers, you should treat this like starting your own business. You will be responsible for winning your clients and managing your own time. We recommend doing this part-time until you've created a large enough client base to comfortably replace your current job's salary. Many of our agents have started down this path and have become full-time.

Need More Information? Read Our Travel Agent Training FAQs

Apply to Join Our Team

Complete our agent application form, and you'll receive an email with an invitation for an interview or a denial within 24-48 hours. Incomplete applications are automatically rejected.

You will be emailed an invitation for an interview or receive a denial within 24-48 hours.

• What's in the Free Online LuxRally Travel Agent Training Curriculum? Our self-directed curriculum includes but is not limited to: ​ What is a Travel Agent? The LuxRally Mindset Tenets of Sales Quick-Quoting Fundamentals Evaluating Clients Problem Solving Steps of the Sale Closing Techniques How to Use Travel Leaders Select Hotel Benefits Programs Flights and Airlines Hotel Brands Primer Introduction to All-Inclusive Resorts Introduction to Wholesalers How to Use Wholesaler Portals Cruising Primer How to Use Cruise Portals Ancillary Services LuxRally Concierge Services Travel Insurance Accounting and Finance Group Contracts and Tools Booking Groups at All-Inclusive Resorts Booking Groups on Cruises Marketing Basics Fraud and Scam Detection How to Use Our Knowledge Base The curriculum ends with a concluding assessment. Once the self-guided portion of your training is completed your will begin preparing for your practical exam, a hands-on assesment of your sales skills and knowledge. Opportunities for continued learning are offered post-graduation. Thorough GDS training is provided upon request.
• How much does LuxRally Travel's Agent Training cost? Zero. Free. No hidden fees, no catch.
• Do I need experience to become a luxury travel advisor with LuxRally Travel? No, we do not hire prior travel agents. Our methods and philosophies are often opposite to that of traditional travel agencies. For example, we do not believe in charging service fees, and this is something experienced agents cannot wrap their heads around. Additionally, while we enjoy free travel occasionally, we do not believe in FAM culture. FAMs are free group trips for travel agents and often create a conflict of interest between the agents and their clients. Traditional travel agents may send people to a location in exchange for a FAM trip. We find this practice repulsive. The average travel agent makes $46,000 a year; LuxRally Travel agents are trained to make multiples of that. The LuxRally system is best for beginners as it takes more energy for us to fix existing agents than to make new ones.
• Who is a good fit for the LuxRally Travel team? We want general hustlers here to make money and who know how to sell. We want you if you have no sales experience but can prove to us that you are a natural-born hustler. Those with prior sales experience, mortgage brokers, car dealers, jewelers, IT salespeople, concierges, hotel sales managers, medical, pharma, top producing real estate agents, timeshare salespeople, etc., tend to be better at not only understanding the value of their networks but also understand how to advocate for their clients when interacting with vendors. We also look for individuals with large networks that deal primarily with the upper middle class and wealthy and those with a passion for all things travel, especially luxury travel and luxury dining.
• How long does LuxRally's travel agent training take? The training can be broken down into three portions: A Self-Guided Course on Teachable: 50-70 hours (varies by the speed of the individual). This should take you 2-4 weeks. A Launch Meeting on Microsoft Teams: 1-2 hours (scheduled weekly) You Will Have a One Week Period to Prepare for Your Practical Exam A Practical Exam / Final Assessment on Microsoft Teams: 3-4 hours (scheduled weekly) You have four weeks to complete the Teachable portion of your training. If you do not complete the training within four weeks of your enrollment (note: enrollment occurs after your contract is signed/counter-signed), you will be removed from the program. You have three attempts to pass your practical exam. If you fail on your first attempt, you may retake it the following week. You can expect to become an agent within 3-6 weeks, depending on how quickly you complete the teachable and whether you pass your final assessment on the first attempt.
• Do I need anything specific to become a travel agent? From a practical standpoint, you will need a solid computer (preferably with multiple screens), a smartphone, and a current job that allows you to interrupt your day to handle issues for traveling clients. This is a 24/7/365 career. While you will not be working all of the time, clients need to be able to reach you if they experience an emergency while on a trip.
• What is the difference between a travel agent and a travel advisor? There is no real difference; however, travel advisor is often the preferred term for those in the luxury sector.
• Do I need to get my own leads? The short answer is that you will be responsible for getting your own leads and must cultivate a stable source of clients to earn six or seven figures as a Luxury Travel Agent. That being said, we have just launched our FastTrack program. FastTrack gamifies our leads program through a unique credit system, rewarding successful deals with additional credits and providing opportunities to earn more through various tasks. Credits are redeemed for leads. If an agent runs out of credits (because they did not close any leads), they can earn credits through various tasks or wait for their quarterly replenishment. Credits cannot be bought by agents. The Credits system is created to ensure agents with solid close rates work the leads and that agents with low closing rates do not take large quantities of leads. Participating in FastTrack is currently invite only. The program has completed it's pilot and has begun rolling out to other agents as of May 6th, 2024. We are expanding the program to make it accessible to all agents. Agents who score high on their final exam are more likely to be invited into the FastTrack program.
• Do I need to make my own travel brand to be successful? No, it is not a requirement for success. You can use the LuxRally Travel brand to market yourself as an agent. After graduation from our training program and completion of our orientation, you will receive the following: An @LuxRallyTravel.com Email A Landing Page (Agent Profile) on Our Website Access to Branded Templates for Business Cards, Flyers, and Other Promotional Materials Additionally, once you are officially a LuxRally Travel Agent, you will have access to our marketing team to help you create promotional branded materials. Sponsoring an event and need signage? Need help with a social media post? Our team has your back. Now, creating a brand might make sense if you plan on getting leads through SEO or paid ads that require landing pages. However, for most people, creating an independent travel brand is not necessary. Your name will be the brand you will want to focus on. When someone thinks about you i.e., "David Eisen", you want them to automatically think about travel. After completing our training, if you are still determining which path is right for you, we suggest scheduling a one-on-one session with our CMO to evaluate what would be most beneficial to growing a healthy client base. Some agents use social media and personal networks, while others use branded websites and more traditional marketing tactics. It all depends on your situation, networks and background. A simple example would be if your background is in digital marketing. If you have experience in SEO, we would never discourage you from having your own site. We don't make money until you do, so we always provide feedback based on what we think will be practical for ramping up your business. Whatever you choose to do, know that we support both approaches and will provide candid feedback after learning more about your goals.
• What can I earn commission on? Hotel Stays (including groups) Cruises Flights (select flights, not all flights pay commission, you will learn about this in our agent training) Tours Car Service Travel Insurance Rental Cars Private Villas Private Jets Luxury Trains
• How do I get Paid? We offer a commission split based on your received commissions from your client's bookings. It is one of the best commission splits in the industry, starting at 80%/20% in your favor, meaning you keep 80% of what you make. After your first $100,000 in commissions, your split increases to 90%/10%, meaning you keep 90% of what you make. The commission resets each year back to 80%. The most productive LuxRally travel advisors earn multiples of the average travel agent.
• Will I be a fully licensed travel agent after completing the LuxRally Travel Agent Training Program? Yes, after completing our training and orientation, you will be fully licensed under our host agency with all IATA and Seller of Travel licenses required.
• What is the LuxRally Travel Agent Portal? Our comprehensive portal is the one-stop shop for creating clients, making bookings, overseeing your accounting, and more. Instead of getting lost across dozens of systems, our agent portal centralizes all the essential tools you need to be a successful travel agent. These Features include: A Dashboard with Key Statistics About Your Performance, Top Clients, and Top Vendors A Booking Dashboard Where You Can Quickly Make Bookings Directly in the Portal (Launching Q3 2024) Quick Invoicing to Efficiently Complete All Accounting Work Associated With Your Booking Agent Analytics to Take a Deeper Dive Into Your Performance Over Time A CRM to Manage All of Your Client Information in One Place An Accounting Portal to Manage Invoices, Match and Track Commissions, and begin Collections From Vendors For Unpaid Commissions Direct Access to the LuxRally Travel Knowledge Base to Quickly Find Educational Resources Access to a Leads Program to Claim Leads and Track Your Performance (Launching in April 2024) Direct Access to Our "Schedule a 1:1" Feature to Easily Get in Touch With LuxRally Travel Staff When Your Need In-Depth Support in Sales or Marketing Our portal has been designed to minimize the administrative workload on our agents. It is developed in house meaning we make adjustments quickly based on agent feedback.
• What happens after training is over? After training, you become a fully licensed travel agent, ready to sell. We provide access to a superabundance of resources to ensure that all new agents feel welcomed and confident. ​ The LuxRally Group Chat: Our group chat is a go-to for most agents seeking hotel recommendations, assistance with booking tools and third parties, advice on utilizing benefits programs, and general guidance for anything that may come up. LuxRally Agents sign agreements stating they cannot poach each other's clients, allowing our agents to confidently ask for assistance without fear of giving up a promising lead. ​ Continued Mentorship: One-on-One sessions with members from our sales and marketing teams available to our agents. Whether you need a refresher on using a booking tool or lead generation advice, you will have access to a solid mentor. ​ Bi-Weekly Ask Me Anything (AMA) Sessions with David Eisen: David Eisen is not only the founder of LuxRally Travel but is believed to be the highest-grossing single travel agent in the world. Our agents can casually ask David anything travel related on bi-weekly video calls. Bi-Weekly Marketing Round Tables with Courtney Eisen: Courtney Eisen has an extensive marketing background and highlights destinations to focus on, marketing best practices and open format Q&A opportunities. Office Hours With Top Closers: Our top performing agents have open office hour sessions where you can join, ask questions and learn from other agents about specific strategies to better serve clients and increase earnings. ​ Weekly Vendor Chats: Each week, a vendor is invited to a companywide weekly video conference to present educational materials and lead a Q&A. From General Managers of Forbes Five-Star hotels to Mega Yacht experts, our agents have access to continued education directly from industry professionals.
• What if I fail? Follow our training, and, likely, you won't. However, in the rare case you do, you will owe us nothing unless you leave to join another agency. Before parting ways, we will remove you from our website, group chats, and other internal resources. While a tiny percentage of our agents who complete training drop out of the program, we understand that selling travel is not for everyone.
• Why should I choose LuxRally Travel as my host agency? We can confidently say we offer more to our agents than any other host agency with the following: Free, Comprehensive Travel Agent Training We Cover Licensing and Errors and Omissions Insurance for Our Agents We Do Not Charge Our Agents Any Subscription or Membership Fees to be a Part of Our Host Agency Weekly Group Classes One-on-One Sessions Available to All Agents, Even After Training, With Sales and Marketing Teams Competitive Commission Splits (80%/20% vs. 70%/30%), Meaning You Make More Money The Most Advanced Agent Portal on the Market Mentorship From the Highest-grossing Travel Agent in the World Modern Best Practices That Generate Revenue and Maximize Client Satisfaction A Culture of Camaraderie An In-House Team Negotiating Deals for our Agency Directly With Vendors A Comprehensive Knowledge Base Annual Sales Symposiums for In-Person Training and Networking Most importantly, we only make money once you do. We are vested in your success and will do everything possible to give you the best shot in this industry. These are just a few reasons why starting your career as a travel agent with LuxRally Travel is the best move. Lastly, we do not hire people who are already agents, so you will miss out if you ramp up with another host. Our methods are directly opposed to the fee-saturated "best practices" of archaic host agencies, and we've found it takes an immense amount of energy to break the bad habits of existing agents.
• What are the requirements to remain an agent with LuxRally Travel? To maintain your status as an agent with LuxRally Travel, you must meet the following requirements throughout the duration of your time with us: Email Communication: Agents must regularly log into their LuxRally Travel email address. If they have not logged in within 30 days or use an alternate email address for communications, this could affect their standing. Sales Performance: Agents must make at least one sale every 90 days. This can be any sale as long as it is not personal travel (booked by the agent for their own travel). Availability: It's important that agents have ample availability for clients. Limited availability may impact their ability to serve clients effectively. Equipment: Agents need access to a reliable computer to run their travel business. Without this, they may struggle to manage their work efficiently. Community Participation: Being part of the official LuxRally Travel Agent Facebook chat(s) or group(s) is a requirement. This helps agents stay connected and updated with the latest information. These are private channels for agency-related information and support. Revenue Generation: Our agents must sell $30,000 in revenue per year. That would equate to $3,000 a year in commission (an incredibly low number). If you go through our training and cannot hit this small milestone, this is likely not the right career path for you. By meeting these requirements, agents can ensure they maintain their status with LuxRally Travel. Agents who do not meet these requirements are cut from our agency. If you have additional questions regarding this list of requirements, we encourage you to ask them during your interview after applying to our program.
• What are the next steps? Go ahead and apply to join our team. You will be asked to schedule an interview or denied from our program within 24-48 hours.

Reviews From Our Agents

Ashley harrison, shaheim davis, derek van den top, steven sheldon, lori jureller, how we compare to other hosts.

Last Updated 09/01/23

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Travel Agent Certification

How To Become A Travel Agent From Home: 8 Questions Answered

• July 12, 2021

Are you tired of your 9-5 job? Does it seem as if no matter how hard you work, you’re still barely making enough? Would you like to have more time with your family? If so, working from home as a Travel Agent could be the perfect solution for you.

For many people, lockdown was an unexpected lightbulb moment. A moment in time that disrupted our busy lives. Most people who became travel agents from home post-March 2020 said that lockdown made them reassess and reevaluate their life.

At this stage, you must have lots of questions surrounding how to become a travel agent so, that’s why we put together the 8 most popular questions people ask when researching this topic.

As the home-working agency of the year for 5 years in a row and 5-star rated on Trustpilot, who better to guide you through?

1) Do you need any prior experience to become a travel agent from home? 

A resounding no. With no prior experience in the travel industry, you can still make it happen. The cool thing about becoming a travel agent from home is that your past choices or career path to date have no influence whatsoever on your ability to make it a success.

99% of people who join us have a passion for travel but have no prior experience in the industry.

From accountants to investment bankers, security officers, estate agents, at home mums, biochemists, and marketing managers, people from every type of career and background have become travel agents from home. 

When looking at our existing and most successful franchisees to date, their previous career choices have no influence whatsoever. See the faces and hear the stories from people who changed their life…

• Meet Warren , an investment banker
• Meet Soraya , Corporate Catering 
• Meet Frances , oil, and gas 
• Meet Deepkamal , TV production
• Meet Leigh , cleaning franchise
• Meet Julie , a Zumba teacher
• Meet Faye , an at-home mum
• Meet Angela , a celebrant
• Meet Peter , a tour guide

2) What are the qualifications or skills you need to become a travel agent?

To become a travel agent from home you don’t need to have a prior qualification . Although having a degree or A-level in travel and tourism can be a nice addition, it’s not necessary.  

Our live, online training will be the only certification you need to become a travel agent with ABTA and ATOL protection.

There are some key skills you’ll need to be a successful travel agent and business owner. 99% of people don’t have all these skills at the beginning of their journey and it’s impossible to be an expert across the board.

Some companies provide full-time and part-time training, either in the classroom or online, in which they’ll teach you everything you need to know to become a travel agent. You’ll need a laptop, an internet connection (and a smile), that’s about it. 

With so much to learn when starting your own business, it’s impossible to do it all in one sitting. That’s why we provide ongoing training sessions, weekly calls, and a personal travel coach.

The important thing to focus on is your strengths, on what you do know, not what you don’t.

We’ve seen highly qualified accountants become travel agents at home look to their skills in business forecasting and accountancy. On the other hand, we see car sales managers reflect on their customer service and sales experience, which will be helpful in the role of a travel agent.

See below some of the skills that are part of the travel agent’s toolbox:

• Great organisational skills
• Customer service skills 
• Sales skills 
• Online marketing skills 
• Excellent communications skills
• Business planning and forecasting
• Trade and industry knowledge 
• Basic IT skills 
• Empathy and patience 

3) What is the purpose of a travel agent in today’s market?

Planning a holiday or even a group trip away is a time-consuming and sometimes complicated process. Travel agents provide a valuable service by giving expert advice in an industry they are knowledgeable about. They have access to great packages, prices, and know the latest offers, often having information that cannot be found or accessed online.   

Travel agents have the ability to book flights, cruises, rental cars, hotels, and private villas, and even attraction tickets. Becoming a one-stop-shop for everything a customer needs when going away. 

In a fast-paced world where people value their time off work and quality time away with their nearest and dearest, the booking of a holiday is one of the most important things to get right.

A great travel agent or Personal Travel Consultant won’t just sell a holiday. Instead, they help customers get more for their money, help them to make better choices on where to stay, and navigate around obstacles. 

  12 reasons why people book holidays with travel agents:

• They save customers time and stress
• They have the customers back if they need an advocate  
• They are first to know in a world which is ever-changing 
• Like any professional, they are expert in their industry
• They are much more convenient
• They really care and are passionate about travel  
• They have better and more access 
• They are perfect for group bookings 
• Giving more value for money 
• They’ll save a customer preference for future travel 
• They are always in the know 
• They can provide recommendations and advice 

You can read more about these 12 reasons here.

4) What does a day in the life of a travel agent look like? 

It’s very hard to put into words a typical day for a travel agent. Every day is different. It’s even harder to do when you consider the difference in lifestyles between travel agents. Some do it full-time, some work another job alongside and are part-time, others are at home mums; the list goes on.

The things you can come to expect in a travel agent’s day are: 

• Picking up the phone to an unhappy or happy customer 
• Responding on email to new enquiries
• Posting on Facebook a new offer or inspirational story
• Putting together a quote for a new holiday enquiry
• Researching new holiday offers in your niche 
• Attending a trade or suppliers online conference call 

Nicola one of our franchisees gave us an idea of her typical week below. You can read more of Nicola’s story here.  

A week depends on which day of my life I’m at, whether it’s working my other part-time job, or whether it’s a travel business day. If I’m working on my other job, that’s what I’ll be doing. Then outside of those hours, as much time as I can commit to the travel business is what I do. That’s evenings, weekends too.

Travelling is a very personal thing, and the best travel agents have a sense of empathy for what the customer wants to get out of the trip, whether it’s beautiful memories with their family or an experience of a lifetime or perhaps a deeper understanding of the local culture.

Take a look at this video below to get a sense of what it means to book holidays for people. 

5) Can you make money as a travel agent at home?

Absolutely. Equally becoming a travel agent from home (aka Personal Travel Consultant) is not a get-rich-quick scheme.

As a travel agent, you earn money via commissions. As an independent agent, you lose the luxury of a base salary. You’ll earn a commission every time someone books a holiday with you.

When you sell a flight, holiday, or cruise – you earn a commission from the travel supplier who will be providing the end experience for that customer.

The more complex the trip, the more you can charge and, therefore, the more profit for you.

The amount of money you make is up to you. There is no limit or cap to your earnings. It’s not a set salary. If you have 10 customers or 100 customers and if you have a lot of repeat business or spend very little time promoting yourself will determine how much you make.

The commission is different for every type of holiday and suppliers often pay a different percentage %. What you can earn from a flight booking, compared to a hotel varies. A booking for a package holiday in Spain will bring you a different % of commission compared to a personalised, round-the-world, tailor-made trip for example.

Below are some real stories, which will show you what’s possible…

• Rachel, a travel agent, made a £31,000 booking for a family this year
• Palvi, a travel agent, celebrated 2 million in sales this year
• llesh, a travel agent and networker, saw a £29.k booking
• David, a travel agent, sold £175k of travel during lockdown

There are travel agents making 6 figures a year, whilst others enjoy a boost to their house-hold of £20k a year. Ultimately it comes down to your own goals, and what you’re willing to put in.

6) What are the Pros and Cons of being a travel agent?

The main advantages …

• The flexibility to work from anywhere whether at home or on a tropical island. Since your primary role is to sell travel, going on holiday or having lots of mini-breaks is advantageous. As you’ll be able to take pictures, videos and share it on social, expand your knowledge of a destination, and get clued up on the best hotels in that country.
• Being your own boss. People who have chosen to become a travel agent from home love the ability to set their own work schedule. If your goal is to achieve another source of income, alongside another job or role like being a full-time mum. The job is versatile enough to allow you to set your own working hours.
• The unlimited earning potential. Earning a commission every time someone books a holiday means there is no limit.
• It’s an exciting industry to be in, which is ever-changing and evolving. It’s also a great product. Travel is a popular topic that everyone loves to talk about. Selling holidays is the ultimate feel good.

The things to be aware of…

• The job is demanding and can be stressful. Since that human touch and personalised experience is what differentiates a travel agent from an online booking platform, you might need to answer that call in the middle of the night or work on weekends. Some travel agents report helping customers when on holiday themselves.
• Being a travel agent is a commission-based pay – no sales, no pay. You’ll need to brush up on your sales skills, as ultimately you will be selling travel to customers and will be paid once they travel.
• If you work as an independent travel agent you’ll need to get your own travel insurance. There are hundreds of things that can go wrong, and inevitably something will, insurance will protect you and your business.
• Developing a niche is essential in a competitive market like travel. You might choose to focus on eco-friendly travel, or in luxury Safaris, New York trips, or become the expert for honeymoons.

You can read 8 reasons to become a travel agent here.

7) What is becoming a travel agent all about?

There are many aspects to being a travel agent, but it’s worth highlighting that the relationships you build and nurture with both customers and suppliers are essential.

Customer Relationships

How do you make more money as a travel agent? Clients, clients, clients. The key is to have happy customers who’ll return to you every year or time they need a break. So you don’t have to spend time finding new customers each time, building a solid and loyal customer base is key. This will come from nurturing relationships with customers over time, delivering personalised, outstanding customer service everytime.

Meet Palvi, a travel agent gives her 5 top tips on this here.

Meet J ulie, a travel agent who shares how she has succeeded

8) What are the main differences between being an independent travel agent or joining a franchise?

When anyone is thinking about becoming a travel agent the key question to ask is ‘Do I do it alone, or do I join an established travel company?’  

Both choices have pros and cons, and only you can decide which path is the right one for you to take. The popularity of joining a franchise has grown exponentially in the UK in the last 20 years.

Half of all independent new businesses fail within their first two years whilst 90% of franchise businesses become profitable in that same period of time.

But why do people pay money to a company to start their travel business? There are many reasons, here are a few…

• Access to a tried, tested, and ready-made business model
• The initial and ongoing support, not to mention the essential training
• When you invest you join a business with a financial backbone
• Less worry in terms of legal compliance, systems, procedures
• Use of a trusted, known brand in the market, with authority

You can read more about how to start a travel business here.

As the home working agency of the year for 5 years in a row, The Travel Franchise is a community of home workers, who feel the support and protection of a bigger company, with all the benefits of being your own boss.

If you’re interested in how you can become a travel agent from home, take our exciting, online video tour today., you might also like....

“It’s a dream come true” says mum Alison our latest Money-Back Challenge winner

Two years on and mum Ami’s ‘hobby’ business is booming with £3-million-pounds of holidays booked, despite being new to travel

How a Discovery event led Ellie to ditch teaching to juggle a thriving travel business and a new baby

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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 some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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.

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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.

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Fee Free Program

YES! YOU HAVE NOT MISHEARD!  OUR PROGRAM IS REALLY FREE

Looking for extra income?   Want to be your own boss and work from home?

Are you comfortable with talking to new people and making friends in person and on social media?

Have you booked travel for yourself or your family in the past?

If your answers are yes, then you will easily succeed as a travel agent at BNT Travel Group! All you need to invest is your passion; we will help with the rest!

Become a Travel Agent

Becoming an independent travel agent in today’s booming entrepreneurial world requires no startup costs and no investments. You do not need to borrow money for office space rent, employees, or system fees.  

But you do need to choose the right host travel agency to work with.  

Join BNT Travel Group

Become a home-based independent travel agent at BNT Travel Group with no investments, no startup costs, and no monthly fees*!  You will get all the tools and training you need to become a successful travel agent.  

BNT Travel Group equips you with access to various resources that allow you to perform all necessary transactions including hotel, airline ticket, car rental, cruise line, tour operator, and travel insurance bookings free of charge.

All you need is a computer, phone, and passion to succeed!

Affiliating with BNT Travel Group is the most valuable way to begin or continue your career in the booming travel industry. The travel industry has been growing each year and is projected to continue its growth for years to come. Instead of building your own travel agency from the ground up and spending countless amounts of time and money on everything your new business needs, you can begin instantly with a proven foundation and award-winning support system.

Yes, it's Free!   

Unlike our competitors, we have designed a free host agency program, which grants the ability to experience the travel business and earn an income without any investments, memberships, or monthly fees.   While keeping our program free of costs, we still offer high commissions to all of our agents.

What's the catch?

 There is no catch! BNT Travel Group charges a one-time $249 registration fee, which is FULLY REFUNDABLE  upon your first commission of $350 (combined) or more actually received from the vendor within 3 months after the signing up date (applies only to newly joined agents, not applies to renewals). This refund is guaranteed by our  legal contract .  

Why do we charge a one-time fee?

There are three reasons: 1. To confirm your commitment to our brand. 

2. To guarantee that you are embarking on your new venture with a serious state of mind. 3. To cover the expenses of your registration process with vendors.

Our Preferred Supplier Commissions  

BNT Travel Group has a notable reputation and established relationships with all of our tour and travel partners, allowing us to obtain some of the highest commission levels in the travel industry.  Tours Operators - up to 20%

Cruise Lines - up to 16%

Travel Insurance Companies - up to 28%

Car Rentals - up to 10 %

Hotels - up to 15%

Exclusive Tours and Packages - up to 20%

Your commissions  

Our tour suppliers pay us commissions worth up to 30% of the total sale, depending on the type of travel.

From that percentage, you receive a commission payment of 80% (Our commission split level starts from 80/20 percent for beginners as well as for advanced travel agents). Advanced travel agents will receive up to 90% of the commissions received from vendors.

Learn more about the BNT Travel Group commissions and payments structure ( click here ). 

The more you sell, the more you get

Once you have reached $7500 in gross commissions during a 12-month period, we will increase your commission rate to 85 %, and to 90% if your gross commissions reach over $10,000.

Travel Agent Training

Learn how to become a professional travel agent and grow your client base with our advanced start-up and continuing travel agent training programs. You can learn at your own pace and from the coziness of your own home.

Unlimited video training & travel agent tutorials

Online webinars with industry and destination experts

Access to FAM Trips (Familiarization trips)

Participation in EDGE events by Travel Leaders

Various destination and local events

Free online marketing center with unlimited templates and resources  provided by our vendors

Various marketing webinars

Social media marketing tutorials and support

Direct mail and a sophisticated email marketing system 

Agent Support

Unlimited support

Personalized mentoring programs customized for each individual agent

New agent orientation program

The travel industry is on the rise with growing revenue and profits- becom e a part of it!

By working with BNT Travel Group, you earn the highest commissions, pay no fees, and

travel as a part of your job; there is nothing to lose by joining our family.

We will guide you through every step of your journey to becoming a successful travel professional.

NO OTHER HOST TRAVEL AGENCIES CAN MATCH OUR OFFE R!

Unlock Your New Career: The Ultimate Guide to Travel Agent Training Free

Embarking on a travel agent career doesn’t have to strain your wallet, thanks to a wealth of travel agent training free programs at your disposal. This guide unearths a selection of comprehensive free resources that cover everything from the basics of travel planning to advanced customer service techniques. Learn through online courses, webinars, and industry events—all without spending a penny. Start your journey with our roadmap to free travel agent training, and set yourself up for a successful, cost-effective career .

• Access to a variety of free resources like online courses and webinars empowers aspiring travel agents to enhance their knowledge and skills without breaking the bank.
• Options for career progression include joining a host agency for support and resources or striking out independently to craft a unique travel business aligned with personal aspirations.
• A successful travel agent must build a comprehensive skillset, identify a niche market to specialize in, and create a robust business plan with clear goals and effective marketing strategies.

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

Discovering Free Travel Agent Training Opportunities

Pursuing a career as a travel agent need not be a costly affair. The world is your classroom, with a host of free training opportunities just waiting to be explored. Organizations like ASTA and ACTA are treasure troves of knowledge, offering travel agent certification programs that equip aspiring agents with the tools to succeed in America and Canada. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to sharpen your existing skills, there’s a wealth of resources at your fingertips, including:

• Online courses
• Virtual events
• Industry conferences

These resources cater to every learning style and schedule.

For those ready to dive in, LuxRally Travel opens its doors to eager learners through an agent application process, leading to a commission-only based contract akin to starting your own business. This model not only educates but also immerses you in the real-world dynamics of the travel industry, offering a practical approach to learning. We’ll further dissect these opportunities to see how they can fuel your burgeoning career.

Online Courses

In our digital age, online courses are the cornerstone for convenient, low-cost, and comprehensive learning for travel agents. These courses cover the A to Z of the travel industry, from understanding the roles and responsibilities of a travel agent to mastering the art of crafting tailor-made travel experiences for clients. Platforms like Alison are a goldmine for free courses specifically designed for travel consultants, providing strategies that are vital for a successful career. Here, you can absorb knowledge at your own pace and revisit complex topics until you’re confident in your expertise.

The wide-ranging and comprehensive nature of online courses facilitates the development of a robust skillset that includes everything from booking strategies to customer service excellence. These online resources are not just about acquiring knowledge; they’re about empowering you with the skills to rise above the competition and make a tangible impact in the travel agency business.

Webinars and Virtual Events

The interactive nature of webinars and virtual events brings a dynamic edge to your education as a travel agent. Imagine learning directly from industry experts about the latest trends in content creation, AI communication, and specific travel group information—all from the comfort of your home. As the travel landscape evolves, especially in light of global events like COVID-19, staying informed about destination updates and policies becomes crucial. Webinars provide this cutting-edge knowledge with the added benefit of real-time interaction, allowing for immediate responses to your burning questions.

Dive deeper into specialized themes such as luxury travel or cruises through targeted webinars that immediately benefit your clientele. These virtual events are not just learning sessions; they’re interactive platforms that connect you with a community of travel professionals, fostering a sense of belonging and offering support as you navigate the industry’s complexities.

Industry Events and Conferences

Beyond the digital realm, industry events and conferences are your gateway to the pulsating heart of the travel world. These gatherings are a melting pot of ideas, trends, and best practices, allowing you to immerse yourself in the travel industry’s latest innovations. Networking is a hidden gem of these events, providing the chance to rub elbows with travel suppliers, tour operators, and fellow professionals who can become invaluable contacts throughout your career.

Key events like the ASTA Global Convention or the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) are not to be missed, offering workshops and speakers that can skyrocket your knowledge and professional connections. Imagine yourself actively engaging with industry thought leaders, absorbing their wisdom, and applying it to your own travel agency business. Such experiences are not just about learning; they encapsulate the essence of growth and opportunity in the travel industry.

How to Become a Travel Agent for Free: Choosing Your Path

The path to becoming a successful travel agent is as unique as the destinations you’ll help your clients discover. You have the freedom to choose how you’ll embark on this journey—whether it’s through the supportive environment of a host agency or the independent spirit of starting your own business. Each path offers distinct advantages and the choice ultimately hinges on your personal goals and preferences.

Consider the achievability of your goals and the level of support you’ll need to reach them. Partnering with a host agency can provide a scaffolding of resources and expertise, while going independent offers the thrill of steering your own ship. As we delve into the benefits of each option, think about what aligns best with your vision for your travel agency business.

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Penn foster - travel agent career diploma.

Learn how to become a Travel Agent - Complete in as little as 8 months*

The Penn Foster Travel Agent distance learning program can be your passport to an exciting future as a travel professional. Train quickly and conveniently, and learn skills such as:

• The key tourist destinations throughout the world
• About tour and vacation packages
• How to start your own travel agency
• How agents use computerized reservation systems

Host Agency Benefits

A host agency can be the wind in your sails, offering a robust support system that can propel your travel business forward. With higher commission levels thanks to collective buying power, and a plethora of business and marketing support services, host agencies provide a strong foundation for your agency. The legitimacy and problem-solving efficiency that comes with a host agency’s established network can be a game-changer for new agents, offering a level of professional clout that’s hard to achieve on one’s own. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to research host agency reviews before choosing the right partner for your business.

Furthermore, the reduced startup costs associated with partnering with a host agency, including licensing and access to airline ticketing support, can be a financial lifesaver for those just entering the industry. These benefits extend beyond being mere perks; they serve as critical tools that can help you focus on growing your business and refining your craft without the added pressure of navigating the administrative maze of the travel industry.

Independent Travel Agent Advantages

Embracing the role of an independent travel agent is like stepping into a world of endless possibilities. Here, you’re the captain of your destiny, with the freedom to make business decisions, set your schedule, and work from any corner of the globe. The financial rewards of this path are equally enticing, with the potential to earn commissions, charge service fees, and benefit from tax deductions associated with running a home-based agency.

This independence transcends the realm of financial gain; it centers on creating a business that truly reflects your values and caters to your clients’ unique needs. As an independent agent, you hold the reins, and with that comes the thrilling opportunity to build something truly your own, something that stands as a testament to your hard work and dedication.

Building Your Travel Agent Skillset

The framework for a successful travel agent involves a diverse range of skills that extends beyond mere passion for travel. Interestingly, no specific formal qualifications are required to enter this profession, making it an accessible career path for many. Yet, to truly excel, you need to cultivate a deep understanding of travel agency operations, gain proficiency in tour booking systems, acquire extensive geographical knowledge, and ensure fluency in English.

Mastering these skills does more than just prepare you for the day-to-day tasks of a travel agent. They enable you to provide exceptional customer service, communicate effectively with clients, and manage a myriad of travel details with finesse. This skillset is your arsenal, equipping you to navigate the complexities of the industry and to emerge as a trusted travel professional.

Finding Your Niche in the Travel Industry

Within the wide landscape of the travel industry, identifying your specific niche can serve as a guiding compass that guides your agency to success. Specializing allows you to channel your efforts into areas that resonate with your passion and expertise. Whether it’s the opulence of luxury travel, the thrill of adventure, or the precision of corporate travel, honing in on a specific segment can lead to deeper customer satisfaction, market differentiation, and sustainable business growth.

When selecting your niche, consider what sets your heart racing. Is it:

• designing lavish getaways that ooze exclusivity
• curating experiences that push boundaries and incite discovery
• ensuring seamless travel for busy professionals

Understanding and catering to the unique preferences of your clientele is paramount for personalizing their journey and fostering enduring loyalty.

Luxury Travel

Luxury travel is synonymous with the finer things in life, blending relaxation with adventure and treating comfort and exclusivity as its hallmarks. This niche is about more than just opulent hotels and premium flights; it’s about crafting experiences that resonate with exclusivity and personalized attention. Some examples of luxury travel experiences include:

• Arranging private yacht sailings
• Securing reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants
• Booking exclusive access to private villas or resorts
• Organizing personalized guided tours and excursions
• Providing VIP airport transfers and chauffeur services

These are the touches that define luxury travel.

Catering to an affluent clientele means offering bespoke travel options that exceed expectations. The luxury travel niche requires a meticulous eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellence at every turn. As a luxury travel agent, your job is to create those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that become treasured memories for your clients.

Adventure Travel

Adventure travel speaks to the soul of the explorer, to those who seek activities that test their limits and immerse them in the natural world. This niche is about physical and explorative experiences that take clients off the beaten path—think mountain climbing, white-water rafting, and exhilarating bike trails. It attracts individuals who crave challenge and novelty, those who find joy in conquering peaks and forging through untamed landscapes.

As an adventure travel agent, your role is to:

• Facilitate transformative journeys
• Ensure each trip is thrilling, safe, and well-coordinated
• Ignite passion and provide clients with the tools to embark on adventures that will become pivotal chapters in their life stories.

Corporate Travel

Corporate travel agents, also known as travel advisors, are the architects of seamless business travel, specializing in organizing trips that cater to the specific needs of companies and organizations. This often involves handling complex bookings, like:

• multi-destination itineraries
• group travel arrangements
• transportation logistics
• accommodation reservations
• visa and passport requirements

In addition to these tasks, corporate travel agents also craft detailed travel plans to ensure every aspect of the journey aligns with the business’s objectives. In corporate travel, you’re not just booking flights and accommodations; you’re providing solutions that adhere to the company’s standards for safety, risk management, and employee care.

Navigating the corporate travel landscape requires a different set of skills, including a deep understanding of the business world and the ability to anticipate and meet the demands of corporate clients. As a corporate travel agent, your expertise can make the difference between a stressful business trip and a productive, hassle-free experience for your clients.

Creating a Solid Business Plan

Venturing into the travel industry requires more than just a love for travel; it demands a solid business plan that acts as your strategic roadmap. The executive summary of your plan is the beacon that guides potential investors and stakeholders, providing a snapshot of your business concept and strategic direction. It’s where you define your unique selling points and articulate how your travel agency stands out from the competition.

This exhaustive document transcends being a mere formality; it manifests your vision and the blueprint for your success. It informs stakeholders about your value proposition and outlines the steps you’ll take to make your travel agency business a reality, considering the chosen business structure.

Setting Goals

Setting goals is akin to charting a course for your travel agency. Employing the SMART framework ensures your goals are:

This provides clarity and direction. Whether it’s increasing bookings or boosting your online presence, clear and specific objectives keep your agency’s journey on track. These goals must be measurable, with concrete metrics that allow you to track progress and adjust your strategy as needed.

Timelines are crucial, creating a sense of urgency and ensuring regular reviews of your agency’s course. With each accomplished goal, you’re doing more than just ticking off a box; you’re attaining new milestones in your agency’s growth and solidifying your reputation in the travel industry.

Defining Target Markets

Understanding your clients’ needs, preferences, and expectations is the compass that steers your marketing efforts in the right direction. By defining your target markets, you can tailor your website content and marketing messages to resonate with your ideal clients, setting your agency apart from its competitors. Detailed customer personas, crafted from thorough market research, allow you to visualize and connect with your audience, enhancing the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns.

Testing different marketing approaches and gathering direct customer feedback are essential for fine-tuning your agency’s understanding of its clientele. Considering cultural and linguistic factors is key to ensuring your content resonates with your target audience and builds a strong, relatable brand presence.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

A well-navigated financial course is the backbone of any successful travel agency. Your financial plans should include:

• Revenue projections
• Budgeting for expenses
• Developing pricing strategies
• Cost control methods

All of these are integral to your business plan. While the initial investment to launch your career as a travel agent is relatively low, thoughtful budgeting and financial planning ensure that you can maximize your returns and sustain your business over the long term.

Lean on the support that a host agency can provide in backend bookkeeping and reporting to minimize the need for expensive software investments. Don’t forget to consider the protective umbrella of Errors and Omissions insurance; some host agencies extend this coverage to their independent agents, safeguarding against potential liability lawsuits. Above all, meticulous financial tracking is essential, ensuring you maintain a clear ledger of expenses, refunds, and commissions—often, seeking the expertise of a professional accountant can be a wise investment for your travel agency.

Marketing Your Travel Agency

In the vibrant tapestry of the travel industry, effectively marketing your travel agency is what makes your brand’s colors shine the brightest. A strategically planned online marketing approach should encompass a professional website and search engine optimization, and content that engages and converts potential clients into loyal customers. As the digital landscape continually evolves, so too must your marketing strategies to align with industry trends and changing customer preferences.

Your marketing efforts are a dynamic part of your travel agency’s growth, involving clear goals and the tracking of key performance indicators to gauge success. Whether it’s through compelling storytelling on your website or eye-catching campaigns on social media, your marketing endeavors are the magnet that draws clients to your agency.

Online Presence

In the current digital age, an online presence is as vital for a travel agency as its travel services. A responsive and mobile-optimized website is the first port of call for many potential clients, and it needs to make a lasting impression with its user-friendly design and engaging content. Your website should not only facilitate easy bookings but also showcase your agency’s unique identity and expertise, catering to the specific preferences of your target audience. Online travel agencies that excel in these aspects will undoubtedly attract more clients and thrive in the competitive market.

Here are some tips to improve your online presence:

• Incorporate customer reviews and testimonials on your website as a form of social proof to build trust and credibility with visitors.
• Utilize tools like Google Analytics to gain insights into your audience and shape your marketing strategies accordingly.
• Remember, your online presence is more than just a website—it’s the digital face of your brand and the cornerstone of your client base’s trust in your expertise and services.

Social Media Marketing

Social media serves as the heartbeat of contemporary marketing, and for travel agencies, it’s a playground for engagement and brand building. Start by focusing on one or two primary channels that align with your content style and audience demographics, gradually expanding as you grow more confident and capable. Your social media content should be a mix of visually appealing posts, engaging narratives, and calls to action that resonate with your audience and reflect the spirit of your travel brand.

Harness the power of social media insights to tailor your content and engagement strategies, ensuring you reach the right audience with messages that spark interest and drive bookings. Collaborate with influencers to amplify your reach and credibility, and always be responsive to customer inquiries, as a swift and effective social media presence can foster customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Networking Opportunities

The adage ‘It’s not what you know, but who you know’ is especially applicable in the travel industry. Networking opportunities abound at events like the LuxRally Travel Sales Symposium, where agents can engage in meaningful discussions with vendors, attend informative presentations, and expand their professional network. Building strong relationships with reliable suppliers can significantly boost your agency’s efficiency and value proposition to clients.

Don’t overlook niche markets, which can offer unique networking opportunities to form partnerships with related organizations and influencers. Online platforms and industry groups provide a forum to share experiences, collaborate on opportunities, and gain insights from peers, further expanding your professional network and fostering industry collaboration.

THE JOURNAL

Travel Advisor Resources

How to Become a Travel Agent: All Your Questions, Answered

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora Travel

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/how-to-become-a-travel-agent-all-your-questions-answered

Are you the go-to person for travel tips? Do you have lists of restaurant recs for your favorite cities? Obsessed with hotels and resorts? Or maybe you're looking to score epic hotel perks for your friends and family?

Narrator’s voice: If you answered yes to any of these questions...

If you have a passion for travel, a career path to becoming a travel agent is closer than you think. First, we answer some FAQs on  booking travel, travel agencies and the travel industry, then walk you through how to become a travel agent, step by step.

Ready to take the first step? Become a travel advisor today.

Let’s back up. What exactly does a travel agent do?

Travel agents sell, curate and book travel. What kinds of bookings do Fora Advisors do , exactly? All sorts, from booking a cruise line or a hotel room to planning a multi-country journey that includes transfers, tours and unique experiences (and everything in between).

As a travel consultant, travel agents work with clients to tailor travel arrangements based on budget, taste and vacation vibe, and communicate with hotels to ensure each trip goes off without a hitch. And when it comes to getting paid as a travel agent, hotels and other travel providers pay advisors a commission on anything they book, at no additional cost to the traveler. For more intel, check out our post: what is a travel agent?

What are the qualifications to become a travel agent?

Good news! There are no exams, accreditations or other hoops to jump through to start booking travel as a career path. Nor is a travel agent certification (or formal training, or experience at a travel agency) required. Anyone with a passion for travel, a problem-solving attitude and a little spare time can succeed as a travel agent. Solid people skills don’t hurt either!

Eager to learn more? Download our guide on how to turn your passion for travel into $$$ .

What are the benefits of being a travel agent?

Beyond talking about gorgeous destinations and cool hotels all day (hey, the topic could be worse), there are also tons of travel industry perks, like trips to develop your travel experience (called ‘FAM’ trips ), plus in-person networking events and hotel site visits.

Plus, you can hook your clients up with amazing perks and upgrades when they travel, becoming the go-to ‘friend with hotel benefits’ (see what we did there…). As a travel agent with Fora, for instance, you’ll have access to best-of-the-best partner programs , with perks at over 4,500 hotels around the world (more on that below). Say hello to room upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, resort and spa credits for your clients.

Learn more about our partners .

How do I get started as a travel agent?

Step 1: find a host agency that gets you.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent, you’ll need to choose a host agency. Travel agents work with a travel agency, referred to as a host agency, that handles commissions and other logistics. A host agency like Fora acts as an umbrella organization, providing resources to travel agents, including access to booking systems & partner programs, marketing support and training. (And, in many cases, a host agency provides you with an IATA number, allowing you to earn commission.) Plus, host agencies give independent travel professionals leverage with suppliers, gaining better commission rates and overall credibility within the travel market. Why choose Fora as your host agency? As a modern host agency, we’re upgrading the travel industry by building tech tools to help you jumpstart your travel business. We’ll get you onboarded and teach you the ropes with training programs galore (more on that below). And when it comes to booking travel, our global community of experienced travel agents will help you get that first booking — and be on call for all the support you need. Learn more about what you get as a Fora Advisor .

Plus, unlike other travel agencies, we don’t require a hefty training fee, minimum number of bookings or quotas. Being a Fora Advisor is flexible, meaning you determine your own schedule and work as much or as little as you'd like. Ready to take the first step? Become a travel advisor today.

Step 2: Learn the ropes & get certified

As an independent travel agent with Fora, we’ll set you up with everything you need to become a successful travel agent, including a best-in-class training program developed by industry experts. 

You’ll hit the ground running — you can book hotels from day one — and get trained up with fellow advisors as part of Fora’s travel agent training . Advisors attend weekly live training sessions, receive 1:1 mentorship from industry leaders and get ‘Fora Certified’ to sell travel. (Fora certification isn’t required, but offered to equip you with all the knowledge you might need).

And it doesn’t stop there. We offer tons of formal (yet flexible) training so you can continue to boost your know-how, including partner webinars, tips on building your client base and tutorials on itinerary planning. 

Step 3: Market yourself

Once you are officially a travel agent with Fora, you’ll be off to the races to boost your client base. To do so, we offer tons of resources for our independent contractors, including a dedicated profile page on Fora’s website and your own fora.travel email address. 

Thanks to our easy-to-follow marketing plan, you have all the resources to market yourself from Day One. Post on social media, send an email blast, ask your friends if they’re planning a trip — there are tons of ways to get the word out. Learn more about how to market yourself as a travel agent .

Step 4: Find your first client

As a travel advisor with Fora, you’ll get the tools, tech and marketing support to help you build your client base. First, we recommend planning trips for your personal network — your first clients can totally be your friends and family. 

Next, word of mouth will be your best friend. After a client returns from a trip, ask them to spread the word. Next, leverage content creation tools to make yourself more visible. And finally, take advantage of Fora’s Client Lead Program (learn more about our game-changing client lead program for advisors ). Learn more about how to get clients as a travel agent .

Step 5: Book your first trip

Time to make the magic happen! And by magic, we mean booking hotels — not to mention itinerary planning & unlocking epic perks, of course.

As a Fora Advisor, you make money by booking hotels — but there’s tons more that goes into it. Your services can range from simply booking a hotel room to planning a multi-country vacation. And Fora Advisors have tons of tools at their fingertips to plan trips. Start by researching your destination and getting intel from fellow travel advisors on our community app, Forum, then make your first booking — and compare rates and perks in real time — with our integrated booking platform . Our most game-changing tool yet, our integrated booking platform is an all-in-one tool for advisors to browse, quote & book hotels directly from their Fora Advisor Portal.  

Step 6: Rinse & repeat — always on your own schedule

One of the best parts of being a travel agent? Being a Fora Advisor provides tons of flexibility, because we allow you to choose your pace, niche & schedule. And thanks to our booking platform, you can work from anywhere. 

Planning travel can be a side hustle to bring in some extra earnings. Or, you might also decide to transition into a full-time travel career with a larger client base as you build your own business. Fora doesn’t place quotas on bookings or earnings, either. Our objective is to teach you and support you when you need it. Beyond that, you’re free to choose the types of bookings you make, how often and when. 

Step 7: Get paid

As a Fora Advisor, you’re eligible to earn commissions on most 3-star or higher hotels, along with other travel suppliers like villa companies or DMCs (tour operators). 

And the best part? If you book travel with Fora as your host agency, thanks to Fora’s integrated booking platform, we handle every aspect of getting you paid (and paid fast). You’ll receive your commission upon the completion of your client’s trip. Learn more about how travel agents get paid. Convinced? Sign up to take the first steps today to . Or, read on for more FAQS on how to become a travel agent.

Can I still become a travel agent if I’m not a travel expert?

Our community is made up of people who are passionate about travel. Beyond passion, travel experience and destination knowledge of any kind — be it the best beach resort in Florida, the top hotel in California or your preferred cruise line — is valuable. However, to become a travel agent, you don’t have to be an expert (i.e., know everything about everywhere). That's where our community comes in. 

At Fora, our advisors get exclusive access to our community app to connect with a network of travel experts. Planning a honeymoon to Japan? A family reunion in Hawaii? A girls trip to Greece? Your fellow travel advisors will be your biggest asset in travel planning — which is why you should choose your host agency wisely. Collective intelligence is a beautiful thing.

Learn more about our community app, Forum .

Define “best-of-the-best partner programs": what brands has Fora partnered with?

We really do mean “best-of-the-best.” From to Hyatt Privé , Fora has partnered with dozens of reputable brands and groups — from boutique hotels in Europe to epic Disney resorts. And we’re not just in the hotel sphere. Our list of preferred partners has grown to include popular cruise lines like Virgin Voyages and Viking, along with on-the-ground experiences like Project Expedition and more. 

Plus, Fora is constantly seeking new partnerships our travel agents can benefit from, so their clients get the most out of their vacations.

How much do travel agents make?

Much like other sales positions, as a seller of travel, travel agents get paid in commissions. Your paycheck depends on how much, and what type of travel, you’re booking. (Learn more in our post on how travel agents get paid .)

For instance, if you book a family cruise in the tens of thousands of dollars, your commission will be substantial. You could also get the same commission by handling hotel bookings at a lower price, but at a higher amount. (TLDR: In general, suppliers commonly pay 10% commission, which is split between you and your host agency).

Check out our guide on how much travel agents make per booking .

Why should I choose Fora as my host agency?

Fora's Head of Travel Operations Leslie Overton coaches advisors at Live Forum 2023

From our inclusive global community to our super-fast commissions (looking at you, other travel agencies), there are tons of reasons to choose Fora as your host agency. 

From Day One, Fora Advisors benefits from A+ support and training, convenient tools and an all-are-welcome ethos. Because we get it: this is uncharted territory for many. Learn more about what you get as a Fora Advisor .

Want to know how to become a travel agent? Here’s the bottom line...

There is a lot to love about being a travel advisor, but one of our favorite parts is that it’s easier than ever to become one. As a Fora Advisor, you get all the support, training and community you need, at a host agency reimagining the industry.

Ready to start your own business? Take the first steps to become a travel advisor today.

Looking for more intel on how to become a travel agent?

Read our other articles on becoming a travel agent:

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home

How to Become an Independent Travel Agent

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

How to Become a Luxury Travel Agent

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.

How to Become a Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

A re you great at finding reasonably priced flights and hotel rooms? Does making itineraries and solving booking issues come naturally to you? If your answer is yes, you might want to consider becoming a travel agent. And if you're the designated "trip-planning friend," you're already halfway there.

You might think the the profession is outdated, but that's not what the data shows: According to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), 50 percent of travelers are more likely to use a travel agent now than they were in the past. Not only are travel agents needed, but the career's earning potential can be impressive, depending on the type of agent you choose to be. Use this guide to learn how to become a travel agent and kickstart your journey into a unique career.

RELATED: 26 Best Trip-Planning Hacks Straight From Travel Agents .

What do travel agents do?

A travel agent's job is to ensure their clients have the best travel arrangements. Using their expertise, they offer advice and essential details about your trip, make your reservations, book flights and hotels, and manage your travel plans overall. Any hiccups regarding your accommodations are handled by them, and they are the best at finding money-saving deals. Travel agents prioritize your needs, like your vacation schedule and budget.

Their goal is to provide peace of mind throughout the trip-planning process so you can get the most out of your vacation.

What credentials do you need to be a travel agent?

You don't necessarily need a degree to become a travel agent, but getting some training within the field could be in your best interest. This not only makes you an attractive candidate to employers and agencies who may require a form of certification , but also helps you appear more qualified, which can help further your career in the long run.

Even though there might not be a degree in "travel agency" per se, you can opt for a related program like business, economics, or hospitality instead.

What do you need to become a travel agent?

There are different ways to become a travel agent, but anyone hoping to break into the field should definitely keep the following three points in mind.

Decide what kind of travel agent you want to be.

Having a specific focus on the kind of travel experience you want to provide allows you to build the knowledge and resources to best help those specific clients. Suppose you want to work in corporate travel: Building your skills according to your niche clientele and field will help you sharpen the skills you need to develop your expertise.

Learn about the travel industry and its trends.

The travel agency field is constantly shifting, so it's important to stay up-to-date on industry changes and trends to know what you should be offering clients. People's preferences are ever-changing, so knowing what's hot and what's not is crucial. Spend time learning which places are popular and unpopular based on the season, or which restaurants are staple visits. This shows a solid and up-to-date understanding your clients will appreciate.

Build your communication and interpersonal skills.

A large part of being a travel agent is advising your clients and earning their trust, which doesn't happen overnight. Presenting yourself as knowledgeable and approachable can encourage them to trust your judgment and recommendations. This is especially important if you're not working with a travel agency, because you'll have to rely more on your brand and relationships instead of leaning on a company's reputation.

Maintaining a healthy balance of communication between you and your clients is also essential, which means scheduling phone calls, in-person meetings, keeping up with emails, and any other form of communication your client prefers.

RELATED: 9 Ways Flying First Class Can Actually Save You Money, Travel Experts Say .

Get certified if you can

Getting a certificate can be pricey and cost hundreds of dollars . So, if this option is not feasible for you, that's understandable. However, while certification isn't a requirement to become a travel agent, it can certainly help you throughout your career. Here are a few certificate programs to consider.

Certified Travel Counselor

This Travel Institute certificate requires at least five years of experience and a Certified Travel Association certification. This course focuses on marketing and building consumer relationships. CTC costs $550 to complete the course and $600 for the CTC Fast Track.

Certified Travel Industry Executive

CTIE is also backed by the Travel Institute and requires at least five years of field experience. This $550 program includes courses on travel business, marketing management, bookkeeping, and travel law.

ASTA Verified Travel Advisor

This certificate is given by the American Society of Travel Advisors and teaches applicants about the legalities of travel and how to solidify relationships with consumers. The nine-course program also focuses on ethical travel advising, agency law, and travel agency compliance.

For ASTA members, the course is $399, and for nonmember independent contractors, it's $598. Travel Advisor nonmembers pay the steepest price, which is $729, and $179 for recertification.

RELATED: 7 Hacks for Flying With Just a Carry-On—No Matter How Long Your Trip Is .

How much do travel agents make?

According to Indeed , travel agents make an average of $53,924, and salaries can range between $30,131 and $96,506, depending on where you live. But other factors can affect an agent's earning potential, like working independently instead of for a travel agency.

A travel agent's income also depends on their area of travel. The Hotel Agency Review 2023 report revealed that corporate and luxury travel agents earn much more than agents who focus on Disney and cruise trips.

Your experience level can also impact your earning potential, as agents who have worked in the field longer are typically viewed as more qualified.

RELATED:  The 7 Best Cruises to Book If You're Over 60 .

Do travel agents get discounts on flights?

Being a travel agent doesn't automatically mean you get tons of discounts and deals, but they do have access to perks that can help make planning trips easier and less expensive. Travel agents have the inside scoop on reduced rates because of their relationships with hotels and airlines. As a result, agents share these negotiated prices with their clients to help them save. Agents can, of course, also benefit from this insider knowledge and save money on their own trips.

Thanks to their agents, clients can enjoy luxury accommodations at high-end hotels like Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS&Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and Mandarin Oriental Fan Club, to name a few. These perks range from spa services and later checkout times to room upgrades and complimentary breakfast.

How do you make money as a travel agent?

There are several ways a travel agent can make money in their field beyond selling travel packages or working for an agency.

Travel agents can charge a service fee, which is a base pay clients cover along with any other charges.

Travel agents can also make commissions from their contracts with hotels, tour/excursion companies, cruises, car rental services, and airlines. Add-ons like insurance can also help boost an agent's income, if their client wants it.

Booking group tours can increase a travel agent's earnings because their commission is based on how much their clients purchase, so more people means more accommodations. For example, booking travel for destination weddings or family reunions is an excellent way to book multiple hotel rooms. It's such a lucrative strategy that some agents make group booking their niche, because managing just a few a year can bring in a substantial profit.

RELATED: The Best Day to Book Flights for Your Next Getaway .

Being a travel agent comes with many perks, but ultimately, becoming one takes a lot of dedicated effort. Taking the time to learn about the travel industry is a great way to expand your tourism knowledge and consumer communication techniques. Refining your skills and becoming certified is one of the best ways to attract and retain clients.

So, if becoming a travel agent sounds like the career for you, join this community of globetrotters and combine your love for adventure, great deals, and helping others plan impressive getaways.

In the meantime, you can sign up for our newsletter to enjoy similar career-building content, as well as the latest in wellness, entertainment, and travel.

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How to Become a Home-Based Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

Nothing feels better than being your own boss.

In most fields, you need the infrastructure and support of a reputable corporation to reach anything beyond low-hanging fruit. In the travel industry, things are changing—and if you move now, you can catch the wave. While the industry used to be dominated by travel agencies, it is increasingly the domain of independent agents. Experienced agents already have the knowledge, training, and qualifications they need to professionally book travel arrangements for clients. According to a 2018 survey, 61% of these independent travel agents make between 10-30% more than when they worked for an agency, and 23.5% earn more than 30% more!

The most attractive part of starting your own independent travel agency is the freedom to work for yourself, on your own hours, with your own clients, in your own home.

But like all good things, independence comes with risks.

As an independent travel agent, you have to assume the risks of entrepreneurship. You must also develop a personal brand that distinguishes you from other agents and from corporate agencies. The right tools and partnerships can empower you to overcome these obstacles and start working for yourself.

Once you learn how to become a home-based travel agent, you will truly be able to enjoy your freedom and earn top commissions working directly with clients. You will be free to decide when, where, and for whom you work—and this guide will show you how.

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home in 3 Steps

If you have experience in the travel industry, then you're at a great advantage, however even if you're just starting, becoming your own agency breaks down to five crucial steps:

1. Find Your Groove

Customers look to independent travel agents for individualized customer service and niche expertise they can't get from a corporate agency. Although you may have experience with cruise lines, scuba trips, honeymoons, and adventure trips, you need to choose the types of travel experiences you're most familiar with and focus on them.

Once you know what your preferred niche is, you need to learn everything there is to know about it. This could mean being an expert in a specific destination—in its local customs, cultures, languages, and tourist attractions—or being an expert in a particular type of vacation.

In today's travel environment, we usually see the best results when independent agents combine different travel specialties to create a niche. For instance, combining scuba and cruise ship trips, or adventures and honeymoons.

Whatever your combined niche is, your clients will expect you to have answers for all of their questions, so be prepared to deliver.

The key to thriving as a home-based travel agent is knowing what your clients want and being able to deliver before they have to ask for it. Focusing on your niche allows you to deeply understand your clients and create a personal brand that speaks to their needs.

Young, adventure-minded travelers, for instance, will respond to edgy, exciting brand messaging. Retired veterans, on the other hand, demand different treatment—you must know your client.

As a home-based travel agent, you are directly responsible for your income. If you haven't brushed up on your sales skills, you may want to. Travel Quest World, EDGE, and regional travel conferences can help you create a solid foundation for your future.

Not only must you make sales without the large corporate team backing you up, but you also have to tend to the needs of a more demanding customer base—people willing to pay extra for premium service.

2. Consider a Host Agency

Independent travel agents still need to use state-of-the-art technology to manage their customer relationships, to make timely bookings, and to track commissions accurately.

You still need a top-shelf insurance policy to handle potential liabilities. Partnering with a host agency gives you access to these important tools and benefits.

This is a secret that large corporate travel agencies don't want you to know. The truth is that becoming an independent travel agent doesn't mean you're completely on your own. The key to starting a successful travel agency while working from home is choosing the right host agency to collaborate with.

The travel industry has evolved. Home-based independent travel agents are becoming the new norm because much of the time-consuming legwork that goes into making travel plans for clients can be streamlined and scaled using new technology.

The same Internet that enables travelers to book their own flights and make their own travel arrangements also makes travel agents' jobs easier. And although it may seem counterintuitive, the hyper-connected Millennial generation actually relies on travel agencies more than previous generations do.

This means that independent agents will spend less time typing code into a Global Distribution System (GDS) and more time talking to clients about exciting opportunities off-the-beaten path. In fact, one in three leisure travel agents and one in five corporate travel agents prefer using the Internet to using a GDS.

But there are still certain things you need to assure your new career as an independent travel agent is a successful one. Host agencies lay the groundwork for you to showcase your expertise and deliver value to travelers while retaining 100% ownership of your travel brand.

3. What to Look for in a Host Agency

Not many people will tell you that when you learn how to become an independent travel agent, what you're really learning is how to become your own sales team, your own customer support service, your own commission manager, and your own marketing expert.

That's where having access to the powerful, intuitive tools host agencies make available becomes useful.

Some of these tools include:

• Web Development and Design. Having a state-of-the-art website is an absolute necessity for today's independent travel agents. Potential clients will be browsing your website to determine how professional and trustworthy you are. Host agencies can provide you with destination-specific content, booking engines, and special trip information that boosts your online presence significantly.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software . You can't run your own home-based travel agency on Microsoft Excel. A professional host agency will provide you with a customized CRM solution that enables powerful, intuitive management of client profiles according to a variety of unique, indexed factors.
• Commission Management and Accounting Tools . Independent travel agents need 24/7 access to an accounting platform that shows open invoices, close invoices, unpaid commissions, and more. Customized reporting lets you be your own accountant and stay on top of your financial situation with ease and accuracy.
• Travel Agent Networking . When you work in a niche, your competition isn't so competitive anymore. Through your host agency, you can connect with other independent travel agents to cooperate, share contacts, and forge new relationships.

Which Host Agency is Best?

Choosing between host agencies for independent travel agents is one of the hardest decisions to make. Many organizations offer technological and marketing support to home-based travel agents, but not all of them represent an equal value.

Dozens of these agencies exist, and each one offers different benefits and drawbacks to its network of independent travel agents.

To choose the right one for you, follow these guidelines:

• Identify What You're Looking For. Your host agency should complement your strengths and compensate for your weaknesses. If you're great at connecting with clients but not so experienced with customer management support and marketing, those would be the areas you want to focus on.
• Ask for References. Remember that as an independent agent, you are interviewing hosts, not the other way around. Find other agents who are working with the host in question and find out what they have to say about the host's resources and offerings.
• Look Beyond the Commission Split. Your commission split is just a small part of the overall equation that will determine your success as a home-based travel agent. The best host travel agency is not necessarily the one that offers the best split, but that offers the best value.
• Choose a Pure Host Agency. Not all host agencies are really host agencies. Most retail travel agencies offer a few home-based travel agent jobs with commissions. A few of them believe this lets them describe themselves as host agencies—which they are not.

If an agency runs its own internal sales process parallel to yours, that creates a conflict of interest.

Is Travel Quest Network the Right Host Agency for You?

When you want to learn how to become a travel agent from home, you need to approach every relationship you build from a place of honesty and professionalism. When you run your own company and put your name on the line, your reputation takes the hit when things don't go as planned.

As a result, it pays to spend time interviewing host agencies and finding the right one to fit your needs.

When you're learning how to become a home-based travel agent, remember that the best host travel agency is the one that gives you the tools and knowledge you need to maximize the success of your independent business.

Ready to take the first step towards financial independence as a home-based travel agent? Talk to Travel Quest Network today and we'll show you how to get started.

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Money blog: Victorian island forts - complete with helipads and nightclubs - up for sale

Two Victorian island forts that were used to defend the Portsmouth dockyards during the Second World War have been listed for auction for £1m each. Read this and the rest of today's consumer news in the Money blog.

Friday 7 June 2024 17:00, UK

• 100,000 reportedly due to remortgage onto higher rates before election - here's what you need to know
• Victorian island forts - complete with nightclub - up for sale
• Does Wetherspoons buy lose to out-of-date beer?
• Rents fall in some big cities
• How much a last-minute Taylor Swift ticket will set you back

Essential reads

• Why you should consider swapping chicken breasts out of your shopping basket
• How brands get you to buy more, more, more
• Ed Conway : Claim of £2k tax rise under Labour is over four years - same maths suggests Tories have raised taxes by £13k in last four years
• How much are student loans, when do you start paying back and what is the interest?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

Ever wanted to own your own Victorian island fort?

Well now you can - with two being listed with a guide price of £1m.

Spitbank Fort in Hampshire and No Man's Land Fort off the Isle of Wight have been listed for auction and can be bought separately - or as a pair if you can't pick between the two.  

During the Second World War, the forts were used to defend the Portsmouth dockyards. 

No Man's Fort is substantially bigger and probably presents itself more as a business opportunity, but Spitbank offers nine large bedroom suites across three floors and could potentially work as a private home to the right buyer. 

No Man's Fort has its own traditional English pub, a nightclub, and a helipad, while Spitbank Fort naturally boasts a wine cave plus a swimming pool and spa complex.

"Throughout my career as an auctioneer I've seen several sea forts hit the market that have achieved impressive prices as buyers have sought to pursue these trophy assets," said Robin Howeson, head of Savills Auctions.

"Having been carefully restored by the current owners, No Man's and Spitbank Fort represent exceptional market value, each guided at £1m. 

"Both offer an opportunity like no other; a waterfront location, up to 99,000sq ft of space and a chance to champion the heritage and legacy of these iconic maritime structures."

The auction takes place on 18 June. 

The BBC's content arm is among the suitors vying to buy the television production company which owns the rights to The Gruffalo.

Sky News has learnt that BBC Studios is participating in a sale process for Magic Light Pictures, which has won three BAFTAs and secured a quartet of Oscar nominations.

The auction is being run by Gotham Street, a specialist media deals boutique.

A number of other bidders are also said to be involved in the process given the quality of Magic Light's content library, which includes a number of works by The Gruffalo's creators, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

The Gruffalo has become one of Britain's best-known children's characters, telling the story of an adventurous mouse that fends off a series of would-be predators by telling them about a supposedly imaginary creature called a gruffalo.

In the 2011 sequel, The Gruffalo's Child, the mouse then scares off a young gruffalo by using shadows to project a giant version of itself.

The two films have been distributed internationally by Magic Light, and along with the original Gruffalo books have sparked substantial merchandising revenues as well as a theme park attraction at Chessington World of Adventures.

The woman alleged to be the inspiration for the stalker in hit Netflix series Baby Reindeer is suing the streaming platform for $170m (£133m).

The show is said to be based on the real-life experiences of writer Richard Gadd, who plays himself as he copes with stalker Martha Scott.

Fiona Harvey, 58, claims she is the inspiration for Martha, who begins stalking Gadd after he serves her a free cup of tea in the pub where he works.

In the lawsuit, Ms Harvey has accused Netflix of spreading "brutal lies", including that she is a "twice convicted stalker who was sentenced to five years in prison".

"Defendants told these lies, and never stopped, because it was a better story than the truth, and better stories made money," it states.

"As a result of defendants' lies, malfeasance and utterly reckless misconduct, Harvey's life had been ruined."

Sky News's US partner network NBC News reports the lawsuit described the show's claim "this is a true story" as "the biggest lie in television history".

"Netflix destroyed a woman, claiming, among many allegations, that she was a convicted woman," Richard Roth, a lawyer for Ms Harvey, wrote in an email.

"It never contacted her. It never checked the facts. It never made any effort to understand the truth of its 'true story!'"

The lawsuit seeks actual damages and compensatory damages at $50m (£39m) each, punitive damages at $20m (£16m); as well as "all profits" from Baby Reindeer at $50m (£39m).

A Netflix spokesperson told Sky News: "We intend to defend this matter vigorously and to stand by Richard Gadd's right to tell his story."

Administrators to The Body Shop are aiming to clinch a sale of the stricken cosmetics retailer by the end of the month, even as its former owner veers away from making an offer for it.

Sky News' city editor Mark Kleinman has learnt that FRP Advisory, which was appointed to handle the chain's insolvency in January, has asked for indicative bids by next Tuesday.

British entrepreneur Mike Lynch has been cleared of all charges by a US jury in the high-profile fraud case related to the sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard (HP) in 2011.

Dr Lynch, who was extradited to the US to face trial just over a year ago, was acquitted alongside a former finance executive Stephen Chamberlain who had faced the same charges.

They were accused of conspiracy and attempted fraud over the £8.3bn sale to HP - a deal that has been the subject of costly legal action since.

Labour is promising to get more young people on the housing ladder as it announces its "freedom to buy" scheme on Friday.

The party is pledging to make the existing mortgage guarantee scheme - which sees the government act as a guarantor for people unable to save big deposits - into a permanent fixture if it wins the election on 4 July.

Meanwhile, the Tories are promising a tax cut for parents by raising the threshold for when families have to pay a levy on their child benefit.

The current system means if either parents or a parent's partner earns more than £60,000, they begin paying the high income child benefit tax charge, and lose the benefit altogether when a salary hits £80,000.

But if the Tories win the election on 4 July, they have promised to increase the threshold to £120,000 before any tax is paid, and to £160,000 before the benefit is withdrawn, as well as base it on a household income, rather than an individual.

If you missed out on the general sales but want to bag yourself a last-minute ticket to Taylor Swift's show in Edinburgh tonight , it could set you back a whopping £4,000. 

Not to fear, however, as it is currently possible to land yourself a ticket for as little as £271 - if you settle for a somewhat restricted view. 

We've checked resale giant Viagogo for the latest prices, accurate as of 10.30am. 

As is often the case with popular tours listed on resale sites, many of the tickets are sold individually - so if you're happy to go alone tonight, you're more likely to get a ticket. 

For context, a ticket at general sale cost somewhere between £80-£160 depending on where you sit/stand. 

As it stands, the cheapest seat with an unrestricted view of the stage is currently up for sale at £323.

Just one ticket is up for £271, but has a "restricted view". 

Bringing a crowd

If you're looking to take someone with you, the cheapest pair of tickets without any restricted view will cost you a combined £1,706.

However, if you're happy with a restricted or limited view, you can pay the cheaper price of £538 for the pair (£269 each). 

You can buy up to four tickets in the same area for £303 each (£1,212 together) for a restricted view, or £555 each (£2,220 together) for an unobstructed view of the stage. 

Getting closer to the action 

Standing tickets are much sought after given their proximity to the stage. 

As alluded to at the top of this post, one frankly optimistic reseller has listed four general admission tickets for a staggering £4,256 each (in the "floor" section shown in the map below). 

However, you can get even closer - with one ticket remaining in the separate section to the left of the stage at £651 and another to the right at £559. 

A word of caution

Ticket resale sites, including Viagogo, have previously been accused of "ripping off" consumers amid concerns customers could be turned away at venues because of restrictions on some resold tickets.

The company was told in 2019 that it was required to make a number of changes to the way it collects and presents information about tickets on its site.

It has since pledged to be compliant with UK watchdogs and now offers a "100% order guarantee [which] covers both buyers and sellers".

If you're happy paying over the odds for last-minute tickets, make sure you're buying through a site with such a guarantee and always beware of scams!

House prices in the UK dropped by 0.1% between April and May, data from mortgage lender Halifax shows.

Analysts had expected a drop of around 0.2%, while last week, rival lender Nationwide said its measure of house prices rose in May after falling in the previous two months.

In the 12 months to May, prices rose by 1.5%, Halifax said - faster than the median forecast in a Reuters news agency poll for an annual increase of 1.2%.

"Market activity remained resilient throughout the spring months, supported by strong nominal wage growth and some evidence of an improvement in confidence about the economic outlook," Halifax's head of mortgages, Amanda Bryden, said.

The stable picture for property prices over the last three months was likely to give more confidence to buyers and sellers, she added. 

Sir Keir Starmer will shortly promise to get more young people on the housing ladder as Labour announces its "freedom to buy" policy. 

We've now got some reaction from business leaders, who've been speaking to Newspage.

Justin Moy, managing director at EHF Mortgages, was not impressed. 

"Freedom to buy looks great on the first read, but then you realise it’s actually been in place since 2021 and many lenders don't use it anyway," he said. 

"Labour are effectively promoting something that already exists and isn't used," he added. 

Andrew Montlake, managing director at Coreco, disagreed, saying it marked a "promising" first offering from Labour. 

"This can allow lenders to take a longer-term approach in their offerings and ensure that competitive products are continually available for those with lower deposits. 

"Whilst it doesn't solve the long-term housing issues overnight, Labour have at least shown they understand them and have already shown they are willing to speak and engage with those on the front lines, which is more promising for the housing market as a whole should the next government be a red one."

However, many more had a negative outlook. 

Lewis Shaw, owner of Shaw Financial Services, was scathing in his assessment, saying: "This policy is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. 

"Prior to the pandemic, 95% loan-to-value mortgage lending was the norm. 

"It happened without any political interference or putting the taxpayer on the hook - has everyone forgotten that? 

"If Labour really wants to help young people buy a home, then do the things that we all know are needed: Tax the super-rich, reduce wealth inequality and build more houses. It's not rocket science."

Katy Eatenton, mortgage and protection specialist at Lifetime Wealth Management, said it was "yet another scheme with no real substance", which was echoed by Stephen Perkins, managing director at Yellow Brick Mortgages.

"This policy will not hugely impact the property market," he said. 

Shortly, we're expecting Sir Keir Starmer to promise to get more young people on the housing ladder as Labour announces its "freedom to buy".

He's set to speak in the coming hours. 

The party will pledge to make the existing mortgage guarantee scheme - which sees the government act as a guarantor for people unable to save big deposits - into a permanent fixture if it wins the election on 4 July.

Sir Keir will also commit to an overhaul of the planning system, including reintroducing housing targets, claiming his measures will see 1.5 million more homes built over the next five years.

Among the planning changes, the party will promise to tax foreign buyers "pricing out young people" from the housing market in order to pay for new planning officers, which it claims will help increase projects being signed off.

It will bring back house-build targets - scrapped by the Tories in 2022 - as well as fast-track permissions to build on brownfield sites, and reform compulsory purchase orders to "stop speculators frustrating housebuilding".

They will also promise to offer "first dibs" on new developments to local people looking for a home and reiterate their pledge to create "the next generation" of new towns.

Read more in our dedicated Politics Hub :

GAME are set to end their long-running rewards programme on 31 July and have urged customers to use their remaining credit whilst they still can.

Both the company's standard GAME Reward scheme and their Elite membership tier will cease to exist, while no further reward points will be earned from purchases made in store or online after July 15.

You can currently redeem 400 reward points for £1 off of a purchase. The end of GAME Elite will mean the end of its monthly offers and prize draws. Any outstanding paid Elite membership months will be eligible for a refund.

"We would strongly urge you to redeem your GAME reward points prior to the closure date on purchases in store or online to avoid disappointment," said GAME.

"After the closure date, GAME reward points will be reset to zero and the GAME reward account will be closed, you will no longer be able to access it and you will no longer be able to redeem your GAME reward points."

The end of GAME's reward programme is the latest move from the company to make changes to their business model.

The chain has already closed several of their own bespoke high street stores and instead taken up residence within Sports Direct and other Fraser Group outlets.

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

We've now had the first interest rate cut in the UK, US and EU for years. 

Yesterday the European Central Bank (ECB) brought down the cost of borrowing in the countries using the euro - the first reduction since 2019.

Sterling stayed roughly where it has been against the euro for the last two weeks - one pound buys more euro than it has done for most of the last year, €1.1740. 

Oil prices have ticked up through the week but are still just below $80 a barrel for Brent crude, the benchmark price. 

That's cheaper than the vast majority of this year and good news for motorists.  

Signs of stabilisation can be seen in the housing market with the news that house prices fell just 0.1% in May, equivalent to a £170 drop in the average house, according to mortgage lender Halifax. 

But renting is still becoming more expensive, just at a slightly slower rate than before, according to property portal Zoopla.

The average rent costs £80 more a month compared with a year earlier.

Higher housing costs have also shown through in a market update from British homebuilder Bellway, which said it expects to sell houses at a higher price point than it previously thought.

The company is a constituent of the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 250 index of 101st to 350th most valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange which is down 0.22% this morning. 

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