How to Become a Travel Agent (Complete 2025 Guide)

Discover how to become a travel agent in 2025, including the skills you need, income potential, pros and cons, and why it’s a rewarding career for travel lovers.

If you love travel and have been wondering how to turn that passion into a career, good news, being a travel writer or content creator isn’t the only option. Another exciting path is learning how to become a travel agent, a career that offers flexibility, steady income potential, and the chance to explore the world while helping others do the same.

Maybe you’re looking for a fresh start in your career, an affordable side hustle, or simply a way to turn your love for planning trips into something profitable. Whatever your motivation, becoming a travel agent could be the opportunity that brings your travel dreams closer to reality.

No matter where you’re starting from, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from certifications and training to the best tools and software to use, so you can confidently step into the world of travel agents in 2025.

Buckle up as you read, it will be a long one, but I promise, it will be worth your time!

What Is a Travel Agent?

At its simplest, a travel agent is a person who helps people plan, book, and enjoy their trips. But that definition barely scratches the surface. Many people still imagine travel agents as people sitting behind a desk, printing tickets and circling dates on paper calendars. In reality, today’s travel agents are destination experts, consultants, and problem-solvers who specialize in creating memorable travel experiences.

A modern travel agent doesn’t just book flights or hotels; they often focus on specific niches. Some dedicate their careers to luxury getaways, destination weddings, adventure travel, or even once-in-a-lifetime experiences like safaris or river cruises.

Others choose to work online, building personalized itineraries for families, business travelers, or solo adventurers. Instead of being replaced by booking apps, travel agents now thrive by offering something those platforms can’t: insider knowledge, human guidance, and stress-free planning.

Travel agents do more than just book tickets. They help travelers decide where to go, find the best deals, and ensure every detail of a trip runs smoothly.

For example, when someone dreams of exploring places like Seoul, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or other small towns across the U.S., but they don’t know how to get started, a travel agent turns that dream into reality. They handle the logistics: flights, accommodations, and tours, so the traveler can simply pack their bags, get on the road, and enjoy the journey.

Also read: The Ultimate Traveler’s Packing Checklist (What to Pack for Every Trip)

You’ll be surprised how many people want to travel but have no idea where to start. As a travel agent, you take the pressure off them and make the whole experience seamless. Whether it’s a family vacation, a honeymoon, or a solo adventure, you’re the guide who turns a dream into an organized journey.

What Does a Travel Agent Do?

So, what does a travel agent do beyond booking a flight or hotel? A lot more than most people realize. Travel agents are like behind-the-scenes directors of a trip, making sure everything flows smoothly from start to finish.

Here are a few of the core things travel agents handle for their clients:

• Booking flights, hotels, and transportation.
• Creating customized itineraries.
• Recommending tours, activities, and local experiences.
• Advising on travel insurance and safety.
• Troubleshooting problems during the trip.
• Helping out with visa guides and applications.

What really sets travel agents apart is their ability to research and personalize. They don’t just recommend random destinations; they dig into the details, explore options, and curate experiences travelers wouldn’t easily find on their own.

However, also note that as a travel agent, you don’t have to do it all. You can choose a niche you are specialized in and focus on delivering a great service for your clients.

How Much Do Travel Agents Make?

One of the first questions people ask when considering this career is, How much do travel agents make? The answer varies widely, depending on factors like experience, niche, and whether you work independently or for an agency.

On average, many travel agents in the U.S. earn between $49,000 and $80,000 per year, but experienced agents who build strong client bases or specialize in high-ticket travel can earn much more. Luxury travel agents, for example, often work with clients who book expensive packages and cruises, which means higher commissions.

If you are also wondering how do travel agents get paid? Most earn money through commissions, typically 10% to 15% of the total cost of a trip. For example, if you book a $5,000 vacation package for a client, your commission could be $500–$750. Some agents also charge service fees for things like itinerary planning or last-minute bookings.

This ties directly to how do travel agents make money overall:

• Commissions from airlines, hotels, and tour operators.
• Service fees are charged directly to clients.
• Earnings from group packages or custom tours.

For beginners, you may not make as much money at first, especially while building a client list. But over time, when you start getting repeat clients and referrals, you can grow your earnings significantly. In fact, many independent travel agents who run their own businesses earn six figures once they establish a reputation and specialize in profitable niches.

How Do You Become a Travel Agent? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Before we go any further, ask yourself a few simple questions: Do you love traveling? Do you enjoy planning trips for other people? Do you get excited about curating itineraries of beautiful places, unique experiences, and dream destinations? If your answer is yes, then you already have the mindset to become a travel agent.

So, how do you become a travel agent? There’s more than one path, but the steps below will give you a clear picture of how to become a travel agent from scratch.

Step 1: Learn the Industry

Start by understanding what travel agents do today. We already discussed it above, so now you know. But don’t stop learning. Continually research travel trends, profitable niches, and how agents serve clients in a digital-first world.

Step 2: Choose Your Path

Decide whether you want to:

• Work as an employee for a travel agency,
• Become an independent contractor under a host agency, or
• Start your own business.

This choice affects your startup costs, freedom, and earning potential.

Step 3: Choose a Niche

If you choose to work as an employee, you may not have the freedom to focus on a niche since you’ll be expected to follow the company’s priorities.

But if you start a business or become an independent contractor, specializing will be a great way to stand out. You might focus on luxury travel, family vacations, adventure trips, Disney travel, or even destination weddings. Picking a niche helps you attract the right clients and build expertise. However, do not box yourself into niches at first if you don’t want to.

Step 4: Get Training and Certification

I am a firm believer that you do not need a formal education to become a travel agent (If you think you do, programs like The International Air Transport Association (IATA), Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) are great).

However, one of the best things you can do for yourself is take online travel agent courses. It can boost credibility. Certifications can also help you specialize (e.g., cruises or destination weddings). Saying you are a certified travel agent definitely rolls off the tongue nicely, and it can open doors for you with clients who like professionalism.

Here are some travel agent courses you should check out:

Step 5: Build Destination Expertise

Clients are far more likely to trust a travel agent who knows the ins and outs of the places they’re recommending. This goes beyond knowing the name of a popular hotel; it’s about understanding what makes a destination unique, the best times to visit, and the hidden gems that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.

For example, if you’re helping a client plan a trip to Paris, it’s not enough to suggest the Eiffel Tower. Destination expertise means being able to recommend the coziest cafés in Montmartre, the best times to visit the Louvre to avoid crowds, or which day trips (like Versailles or Giverny) are worth their time.

This knowledge can come from:

• First-hand experience – traveling to destinations whenever possible.
• Research – reading travel blogs, guidebooks, and industry reports.
• Networking – learning from other agents who specialize in certain regions.
• Supplier trainings – many hotels, cruise lines, and tourism boards offer free courses and webinars to agents.

The more you learn about destinations, the easier it is to tailor trips to different types of travelers: families, honeymooners, retirees, or adventure seekers. And when clients see that you understand both the famous attractions and the hidden treasures, they’ll trust you as the go-to person to craft their journeys.

Step 6: Register Your Business

If you’re starting independently, make it official. Pick a business name, register your business, get any required licenses in your region, and make sure you’re legally set up to accept payments and issue invoices.

Step 7: Find Suppliers and Host Agencies

As a travel agent, your income comes largely from commissions. These are paid out by suppliers, the companies that provide the actual travel services your clients book, such as hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and airlines. For example, if you book a Caribbean cruise for a client, the cruise line (like Royal Caribbean or Carnival) pays you a percentage of the total cost as commission.

However, the challenge for new agents is that many big-name suppliers only work with registered agencies or agents connected to a host agency. So, you may need to apply with one. You might be wondering, “What is a host agency for travel agents?”

A host agency acts like a bridge/middleman: it connects and gives you access to established and trusted travel suppliers, booking systems (called Global Distribution Systems, or GDS), and sometimes even extra perks like training, marketing resources, and higher commission rates.

Some well-known host agencies and supplier networks include:

• Travel Leaders Network – one of the largest travel agency networks with training and supplier access.
• Avoya Travel – popular for independent agents looking for marketing support.
• Cruise Planners – a home-based franchise option specializing in cruises and tours.
• Nexion Travel Group – offers technology, education, and strong supplier partnerships for independent agents.

By joining a host agency, you can start working right away without having to negotiate supplier contracts on your own. Think of it as plugging into an established ecosystem where the heavy lifting, like contracts and systems, is already handled, leaving you free to focus on building your client base.

Step 8: Invest in Tools, Software, and a Website

Being a travel agent means juggling multiple clients, itineraries, and bookings at once. To stay organized and efficient, you’ll need the right tools and software. These will help you manage client relationships, issue bookings, and deliver a professional experience.

Some essentials include:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software – Track client preferences, past trips, and follow-ups. Tools like TravelJoy or Salesforce for Travel are commonly used.
• Booking platforms and GDS access – Systems such as Amadeus, Sabre, or Travelport make it easy to search flights, compare hotel rates, and issue tickets. Many host agencies provide access to these systems.
• Travel insurance resources – Partner with companies like Allianz Travel Insurance or Travel Guard so you can protect clients and earn extra commission.
• Email and marketing tools – Platforms like Kit help you send updates, newsletters, and promotions to clients.
• Organization tools – Free or low-cost apps like Trello, Asana, or Google Workspace can help you manage tasks and itineraries.

These tools don’t just save time; they show clients that you run your travel business like a professional.

Step 9: Create a Professional Website

Your website is your digital storefront. It’s often the first place potential clients will look to see if they can trust you. A polished, easy-to-navigate website sets you apart and makes your services accessible 24/7.

A strong travel agent website should include:

• About page – Share your story, your niche, and why clients should work with you.
• Services page – Highlight what you offer (custom itineraries, family trips, cruises, honeymoons, group tours).
• Testimonials – Even early on, collect feedback from your first clients to build trust.
• Blog or travel tips section – Sharing destination insights not only helps readers but also improves your SEO ranking.
• Contact form – Make it easy for clients to reach out or request quotes.

To build your website, you’ll need two essentials:

1. A domain name – This is your web address (for example, www.yourtravelagency.com). Choose something short, memorable, and relevant to your niche.
2. Website hosting – This is where your site “lives” online. A reliable host ensures your site is fast, secure, and always available. Hostinger is a popular option to get a domain and hosting, because it offers affordable plans, easy WordPress setup, and excellent customer support for beginners.

You don’t need to spend thousands on a site. Platforms like WordPress make it simple to design a professional-looking site, but pairing them with a solid host like Hostinger gives you more control, speed, and long-term scalability. Over time, your website will become one of your biggest tools for attracting and retaining clients.

Step 10: Start Booking Clients and Building a Portfolio

Begin with friends, family, or referrals to gain experience. Document your bookings, ask for testimonials, and gradually grow your client base. Over time, your portfolio will show potential clients that you’re a trusted expert.

Ensure to also invest in marketing and promoting your travel agency. Tell people about what you do, sign up to travel communities, blog about traveling and destinations, and create travel content or hire writers and creators to do it for you.

By following these steps, you’ll see that how to become travel agent isn’t as complicated as it sounds; it’s about combining your passion for travel with industry knowledge, the right tools, and consistent effort.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Travel Agent?

If you’re considering this career, you might be asking yourself: How much does a travel agent cost to start out? The good news is that compared to many other businesses, the startup costs are relatively low.

Here are the main expenses you may encounter:

• Training and certification – While not always required, courses and certifications (like IATA, CLIA, or travel agent schools) can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000+, depending on the program.
• Host agency fees – If you join a host agency to access their tools, booking systems, and supplier networks, expect monthly or annual fees ranging from $20 to $500.
• Business setup costs – Registering your business name, creating a website, and basic marketing materials might add a few hundred dollars.
• Technology and tools – Booking software, CRM systems, and insurance may be extra, though many host agencies provide these at a lower cost.

Overall, many new travel agents can get started for under $1,000 – $2,000, especially if they work from home. That’s far less than opening a storefront agency, which could run into tens of thousands of dollars.

Think of it as an investment: the money you put into training, tools, and building your business sets you up for the commissions and client relationships that will pay off long term.

Skills and Qualities You Need to Be a Travel Agent

Being a successful travel agent goes far beyond booking flights and hotels. It requires a combination of skills and personal qualities that ensure clients feel supported and inspired:

• Customer service – Patience, empathy, and responsiveness make clients feel valued and build long-term loyalty.
• Sales ability – Confidence in recommending packages, upgrades, and experiences helps clients make the most of their trips while increasing commissions.
• Destination knowledge – A deep understanding of locations, culture, and travel logistics positions you as a trusted advisor, not just a booking agent.
• Organization – Managing itineraries, deadlines, and multiple client requests demands strong attention to detail.
• Networking – Building relationships with hotels, airlines, and tour operators unlocks exclusive deals and smoother travel experiences for clients.

Strong destination storytelling also gives travel agents an advantage. Being able to describe places vividly and showcase what makes them special helps clients imagine their journey and makes recommendations more persuasive.

Is Becoming a Travel Agent Worth It?

Deciding to become a travel agent depends on your goals, expectations, and lifestyle. Like most careers, it comes with both rewards and challenges.

Pros

• Income potential – Earnings vary, but commissions and service fees can add up, especially with a loyal client base or niche specialization.
• Travel perks – Agents often get access to discounted trips, familiarization (FAM) tours (where travel agents get to go on free trips from vendors so they can experience it and market it better to their clients), and insider deals that make personal travel more affordable and exciting.
• Flexibility and independence – Many agents work remotely, set their own schedules, and even run independent agencies, making it appealing to those seeking autonomy.
• Personal fulfillment – Helping clients plan dream vacations can be rewarding, especially for people passionate about destinations and experiences.

Cons

• High competition – With online booking platforms everywhere, agents must stand out through expertise, personalization, or niche focus.
• Variable income – Commissions fluctuate with travel seasons and market shifts, so income may not always feel stable.
• Constant learning – Travel regulations, visa rules, and supplier policies change often, requiring agents to stay updated.
• Client pressure – Handling last-minute changes, cancellations, or emergencies can be stressful.

For people who already love travel, the career can feel like an extension of their passion. Turning destination knowledge and enthusiasm into a profession makes the hard work worth it, provided you’re ready to balance the independence with the challenges of a competitive industry.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to become a travel agent, from the skills that set you apart to the income opportunities and lifestyle benefits, the next steps are in your hands. While the role comes with its challenges, it can also be one of the most rewarding careers for anyone who loves helping others experience the world.

Ready to get started? Begin by exploring these travel destination guides to strengthen your knowledge of different places, register for one of the certification courses mentioned above, and set up a professional website to showcase your services. And as you grow, remember to promote what you do; word of mouth and visibility are key to building a successful career.

Have questions or tips of your own? Share them in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you.