How to Become a Travel Agent From Home (2024)

Becoming a Travel Agent is Easy With Dream Vacations

These days, you may find yourself among countless others looking for opportunities to work from home. You value the flexibility, the relaxed atmosphere and the “work-in-your-PJs” simplicity. The travel industry can be a great choice for those who want to work remotely – whether that’s from home or while trotting the globe. If you want to learn how to become a travel agent, why not take the leap and start your own home-based travel agency with Dream Vacations?

When you become a travel agent with us, you’ll be able to work from anywhere in the world and work as a true entrepreneur, owning your own business. As a home-based opportunity that’s part of a reputable business and offers true potential for financial success, Dream Vacations offers the chance for you to forge your own path as a fully remote travel agent and business owner. If you’re interested in learning how to become a travel agent from home, you can join a free Dream Vacations webinar.

How Do I Start a Career as a Travel Agent?

Becoming a travel agent from home is easier than you might think. At Dream Vacations, you can choose to run your own travel agency as a franchise owner or become an independently contracted travel agent and sell vacation packages. It’s all up to you!

When you choose to join Dream Vacations and become a franchisee, you’ll have access to 100% of the travel industry’s highest-paid commissions. As part of a travel industry powerhouse, franchise owners are provided with established supplier relationships, industry-leading buying power, award-winning marketing programs, booking technology and tools needed to operate a successful travel agency franchise from anywhere with internet connection.

If you are looking into how to become a travel agent with Dream Vacations, here’s the process in three simple steps:

  1. Watch our webinar and be connected with a franchise development manager.
  2. Complete the financial and contractual process.
  3. Complete the weeklong initial training course.

How to Become a Travel Agent From Home With Dream Vacations

Interested in starting your own home-based travel agency? Why not join a trusted franchise whose time-tested marketing strategies, organizational structure and cutting-edge tools have allowed over 2,000 franchise owners to set-up and operate travel agency franchises throughout the country.

As a franchise owner you become a travel agent with Dream Vacations, but your training will help you become a travel expert – so you can sell cruises, resorts, tours and more to your clients. You will connect with clients and assist them with finding, planning and booking their ideal vacation experiences – providing excellent support from the moment they begin planning until when they safely return home.

Being a travel franchise owner can be an engaging and lucrative career. If you love to travel and to connect with people, a travel agent business opportunity could be an excellent chance to have a fulfilling career while working from home.

Is Becoming a Travel Agent Worth It?

Even though there are so many travel booking tools on the internet nowadays, travel professionals (also known as travel agents or travel advisors) are an invaluable resource – able to offer first-hand experience and a personal touch that people look for when booking vacations. A travel agent helps customers find their ideal vacation. Plus, they can access exclusive offers, promotions and incentives that allow them to offer clients the best value for their vacation.

If you’re ready to learn how to become a travel agent as a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner, getting started is so simple! The first step is to watch our webinar and from there you will be connected with a franchise development manager who will assist you with any questions you have.

How to Become a Travel Agent From Home (1)

You can become a Dream Vacations franchisee regardless of your level of experience or education in the travel industry. We provide full training and support so that every one of our travel agents has the best tools available so they can succeed and reach their business goals!

Our training and ongoing education courses are easily accessible and help you learn how to become a travel agent successfully and create a thriving business. In the travel industry, you can learn about specific products or destinations online and access exciting opportunities to get hands-on experience by visiting the cruise ships, resorts and destinations you’ll be telling your clients about.

Is Being a Travel Franchise Owner Challenging?

When learning how to become a travel agent as a franchise owner, the travel agent training for beginners from Dream Vacations will help you understand what you need to know to run your business effectively. One of the greatest rewards is helping people create joyful, lifelong memories through travel. Plus, you have the flexibility to create your own schedule.

Another important aspect of becoming a travel agent is creating a vacation experience that’s as stress-free as possible for your client. As a travel agent, you’re there for your clients at every step of the way.

The Day-To-Day Schedule of a Travel Agent

So, what may your life look like as a remote travel agent? A day in the life of a franchise owner is filled with a variety of tasks. Here’s a glimpse of how a typical day might pan out if you become a travel agent with Dream Vacations:

  • Working with Clients: You might schedule time with clients to discuss their vacation plans. These meetings give you an understanding of clients’ interests so you can book the perfect vacation for them. It’s also a chance to give expert advice and make suggestions to suit your clients.
  • Setting Up Travel Plans: This is where you’ll truly make a difference in your client’s booking process. With your knowledge and the travel agent software tools you’ll access as a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner, you can truly excel. Dream Vacations’ 3-in-1 booking system allows you to manage reservations, customers, and financial reports all in one place.
  • Marketing: Like any business, Dream Vacations Franchise Owners must market themselves to build flourishing businesses. Most owners use a mix of traditional and digital travel agency marketing, which might include attending trade shows or local events organized through social media channels or creating online ads.
  • Training: When you first become a franchisee, you’ll go through a weeklong intensive training course. Then, every Dream Vacations Franchise Owner can take ongoing training courses online and on-demand from their laptop or device at any time. Other training courses are conducted in-person at conferences and summits throughout the year.
  • Business Management: Lastly, travel agents handle a variety of business management tasks. These are the small items on your to-do list that keep the business running, like answering emails, participating in weekly check-ins or communicating with your dedicated Business Development Manager.

If you want to learn more about what professional travel agents do and how to become a travel agent yourself, check out reviews from experienced franchise owners.

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How Long Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent with Dream Vacations?

After purchasing a Dream Vacations franchise, you’ll go through an intensive, highly engaging week-long training course, either in our Fort Lauderdale headquarters or virtually. During the training, you’ll be connected with your dedicated Business Development Manager. He or she will guide you to the incredible tools and resources Dream Vacations offers to learn how to get clients as a travel agent franchise owner, along with all the skills you’ll need to excel. You’ll grow at your own pace – there is no “one size fits all” pathway.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Travel Agent?

Becoming a travel agent as a franchise owner with Dream Vacations is a low-cost, high-value franchise opportunity. If you’re ready to learn how to become a travel agent franchise owner from anywhere with connectivity – whether that’s at home or on-the-go – a Dream Vacations franchise allows you to get your business started with minimal investment, with special discounts available.

If you’re new to the travel industry, the total travel agency franchise cost is around $10,500, though a variety of discounts are available depending on your situation and background. You can get started with a down payment of as little as $3,500, with financing available to those who qualify. If you’re a first responder, medical professional or educator, you may qualify for a discount on the franchise fee.

Experienced travel and hospitality professionals can qualify for even deeper discounts, ranging from 70% to 95% off based on your sales and experience. Additionally, if you’re looking for franchise opportunities for veterans, we offer veterans and military spouses up to 30% off the franchise fee, along with other unique benefits and incentives! When you get in touch with your Franchise Development Manager, you’ll be able to see which discounts and incentives may apply to you when you become a travel agent with us.

Community Heroes

$8,400

20% Discount

U.S. Veterans & Military Spouses

$7,350

30% Discount

How Do Travel Franchise Owners Make Money?

As a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner, you’ll earn money through commission on your sales. As part of the Dream Vacations network, you’ll earn the highest tier commission – and you can earn money selling additional travel products like insurance.

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The amount of money you make is essentially dependent upon how much time and effort you are willing to exert. You’ll luckily be able to depend upon the strong brand, close community and best-in-class support of Dream Vacations – a true “running start.” When you’re your own boss, the sky’s the limit!

How Does a Travel Agent with Dream Vacations Get Paid?

Becoming a travel agent with Dream Vacations offers the benefit of independently owning and operating their franchises. You earn commissions from your sales of hotel stays, resorts, cruises, travel insurance and more. Your travel agent commission totals are paid weekly through direct deposit.

Franchise owners may also elect to charge a flat fee for the time it takes them to put together an itinerary. However, if you choose not to charge this fee, you can offer your clients a price that is always the same or lower than what they would be able to access if they booked on their own.

Benefits of Becoming a Travel Agent From Home

Becoming a home-based travel agent is a dream job for many people — and for good reason. Travel agent franchise owners can set their own schedules and enjoy the incredible perks of travel benefits that come along with working in the industry.

Dream Vacations Franchise Owners come from a variety of backgrounds and find unique things to love about the job of a travel agent. Dream Vacations is one of the best franchises for women because of the flexibility of the job; many franchisees love working in an industry that fuels their passion for travel.

How Do Home-Based Travel Agents Promote Themselves?

Travel agents promote themselves through a combination of traditional and digital marketing to get more clients and increase sales. Dream Vacations offers in-depth training to help franchise owners build their clientele quickly right from the beginning. To find a customer base, travel agents can:

  • Start with people in your personal network.
  • Connect with individuals on a personal level.
  • Use word-of-mouth marketing.
  • Promote your business on social media.
  • Leverage a vacation contest giveaway to build your client list.
  • Join new clubs and organizations to expand your circle.

How Do Home-Based Travel Agents Get Clients?

Home-based travel agents build their client lists through hard work promoting themselves in their communities and in their networks. Some clients may come from expected places, like friends and family, though you’re able to meet with clients through just about any method.

Travel franchise owners can also build their client lists through in-person events, travel fairs, local ads, social media groups and more. The most successful travel agents are those who constantly brainstorm new ways to bring in customers and build their network through their current clients. Thanks to the power of the internet, there’s never been a better time to grow a customer base as a remote travel agent, whether you’re working from home or while traveling yourself.

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What Is Considered a Home-Based Business?

A home-based business is any business where the main office is in the owner’s home. Many home-based businesses have specific tax deductions and may require certain licenses and permits, depending on the type of business. Those who rent their home are still eligible to start a home-based business.

Working from home provides a wealth of benefits for any remote travel agent. Home-based travel franchise owners get to set their own schedules and they can get excellent discounts on their own travel. There are also potential tax benefits from operating a home-based business, and they save on commuting costs.

Do You Need Certification to Be a Travel Agent With Dream Vacations?

You’ll take part in the Dream Vacations initial training course, where you’ll be guided through everything you need to know before beginning to sell travel. Dream Vacations franchisees can always rely on the support and guidance of the headquarters team at every step of the way.

Can I Become a Travel Agent in My State?

Yes, you can become a travel agent with Dream Vacations anywhere in the United States. Although some states have different considerations than others, we’re here to help if you have any questions. If you’re wondering how to become a travel agent in your state, resources on these topics are just a click away:

  • How to Become a Travel Agent in Florida
  • How to Become a Travel Agent in Texas
  • How to Become a Travel Agent in Ohio

Become a Travel Agent With Dream Vacations Today

If you’re wondering what travel professionals do and you want to learn how to become a travel agent franchise owner from anywhere – from the beaches of your favorite dream destination, to the comfort of your own home – you’re in the right place! Dream Vacations can help jump-start your home-based travel business with a franchise opportunity that offers you the freedom to travel the globe, a world-class support network, a recognized and respected brand and the ability to achieve your dreams of entrepreneurship.

Joining the Dream Vacations family as a home-based travel agency is a truly lucrative opportunity. Why? First and foremost, you can become a franchisee regardless of your level of experience in the travel industry. Dream Vacations provides training that gives you all the knowledge and tools necessary to start your journey in the travel industry from home.

Watch our webinar or contact us today to see how becoming a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner will truly set you up for success!

Register for Free Webinar

How to Become a Travel Agent From Home (2024)

FAQs

How to Become a Travel Agent From Home? ›

Industry resources show relatively low incomes for agents at an average of around $37,000 per year and this is because many home based travel agents only work part time and do not have the expectation of generating large incomes.

Can you make money at home as a travel agent? ›

Industry resources show relatively low incomes for agents at an average of around $37,000 per year and this is because many home based travel agents only work part time and do not have the expectation of generating large incomes.

Is being an at home travel agent worth it? ›

There is a large earning potential for independent travel agents since your income is comprised of commission, service fees, and consultation fees. Also, as an at-home agent, you are eligible for tax deductions. Travel perks: Also known as FAM trips.

How do I start off as a travel agent? ›

Here are some steps on how to become a travel agent:
  1. Get formal training. ...
  2. Develop your interpersonal skills. ...
  3. Research planning and budgeting techniques. ...
  4. Grow your travel industry knowledge.
Apr 1, 2024

How do I start a work from home travel agency? ›

Here are some of the steps towards starting a travel agency from home:
  1. Conduct Research. ...
  2. Develop Your Focus. ...
  3. Create a Business Plan. ...
  4. Acquire Funding. ...
  5. Determine Financial and Legal Setup Options. ...
  6. Launch Your Travel Agency. ...
  7. Market Your Travel Agency. ...
  8. Get to Work.

Can you be a travel agent as a side hustle? ›

Travel agents can work full time, or it can be a side hustle to help you earn a little bit extra each month.

Can you live off being a travel agent? ›

Is There Money in a Travel Agent Career? A travel agent career isn't a career unless you can actually make a living off it, right? And I'm happy to report that yes, you can make money as a travel advisor! You can read up on how much travel agents make in its very own article!

What are the disadvantages of being a travel agent? ›

Con: Some travel agents are always on-call (including during holidays) Your clients will often expect you to be available in case something goes awry — even if they're on the other side of the world, in a completely different time zone.

What certifications do I need to be a travel agent? ›

Top Travel Agent Certifications
  • Certified Travel Associate (CTA) ...
  • Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) ...
  • Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) ...
  • Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP) ...
  • Certified Destination Specialist (CDS) ...
  • Certified Travel Industry Specialist (CTIS) ...
  • Travel Marketing Professional (TMP)

Do travel agents charge a fee? ›

How much does a travel agent cost? The cost of using a travel agent is generally marginal, and often, they won't charge you at all. Much of their money comes from commissions the hotels and wholesalers pay them. Before you decide to book with a travel agent, inquire whether or not they charge fees.

Can anybody become a travel agent? ›

In fact, the path to becoming a successful travel agent doesn't require you to invest in an expensive college hospitality program or vocational training. With dedication, networking, and hard work, anyone can rise to the top echelons of a travel agents in California.

How does travel agent get paid? ›

As a general rule, leisure travel agents make money from commissions from vendors pay on vacation packages, cruises, air, and other add-ons. However, consultation fees and service fees are becoming more common as agencies try to diversify income sources to become less dependent on supplier commissions.

How to get an Iata number? ›

To apply for an IATA number, prepare these documents in the following order:
  1. Proof of general business operations. ...
  2. Proof of your qualifications. ...
  3. Confirmation of prior travel agent experience. ...
  4. Proof of financial viability.
Jul 27, 2023

Is it hard to be a remote travel agent? ›

To become a remote travel agent, you need several qualifications, the most important being proven experience as a travel agent. You also need good analytical problem-solving skills, particularly for dealing with complicated logistics for your clients.

What is the best host travel agency? ›

Recommended Host Agencies
  • Nexion® Travel Group. (4.8) ...
  • Dugans Travels. (4.9) ...
  • Travel Planners International. (4.9) ...
  • Avoya Travel® (4.9) (462 reviews)
  • ICT - Incentive Connection Travel. (4.9) (40 reviews)
  • OASIS Travel Network. (4.9) (130 reviews)
  • Outside Agents. (4.9) (503 reviews)
  • Uniglobe Travel Center. (4.9) (141 reviews)

Can you work from home and travel? ›

Digital nomads are professionals who perform their duties while traveling the world. The term is most commonly associated with self-employed professionals such as freelancers or independent contractors; however, remote workers who are employees of a specific company can also fall into this category.

What type of travel agent makes the most money? ›

High Paying Travel Agent Jobs
  • Corporate Travel Agent. ...
  • Travel Agency Team Leader. ...
  • Tour Coordinator. ...
  • Tour Consultant. ...
  • Reservation Clerk. ...
  • Tour Desk Agent. Salary range: $30,000-$34,000 per year. ...
  • Ticket Clerk. Salary range: $24,000-$33,000 per year. ...
  • Vacation Sales Advisor. Salary range: $26,000-$32,500 per year.

How long does it take to start making money as a travel agent? ›

If you're becoming an independent/self-employed travel agent, it can take a hot minute to generate income. It takes time to develop a client base and build your brand. Not only that, but commissions from suppliers often don't land in your account until your client's trip is complete (which could be months out)!

What do at home travel agents do? ›

The job of a home-based travel agent is to book trips, flights, cruises, and hotels as well as create and sell package deals for trips. Since these agents work from home, they must have a telephone, a high-speed wired internet connection, and a functional home office area.

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