If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent, the first step is signing up with a host agency as an independent contractor. This is where things can get confusing—there are countless host agencies out there, and unfortunately, not all of them are reputable.
When you click the button below, I’ll connect you with the host agency I’ve partnered with and can personally vouch for. Of course, you’re free to explore other options, but I strongly recommend reading vetted reviews before making your choice.
As you compare agencies, be sure to ask the right questions. At a minimum, you’ll want to understand the monthly hosting fee, commission split, if they provide training, and whether there are contracts or sales quotas. A strong host agency should provide training, ongoing education, and resources to help you learn the ropes and grow in the industry.
One of the greatest perks of being a travel agent is the flexibility to work from anywhere with a reliable internet connection.
I have two other full-time jobs, and the main reason I can operate my travel business in addition to those jobs is the ability to work from anywhere at any time.
There have been some days when I could not dedicate time to my travel business, but the great thing about being a travel agent is that you can work on it at your own pace and convenience.
If you're ready to start a side hustle from the comfort of your own home, click the button below.
I believe in being fully transparent. If you join the same host agency I work with and list me as your referral source, I’ll receive a small monthly referral incentive—$10 or $15 depending on the plan you choose. You’ll also earn the same incentive for any agents you personally recruit once you’ve signed on. In addition, I receive 5% or 10% of the commissions from your bookings, but this does not reduce your own earnings in any way; the same applies if you later refer agents yourself.
It’s important to note that I am not sponsored by my host agency, nor do I receive any special perks or compensation for sharing this information. I don’t own the agency and have no ownership stake in the business. I always encourage you to do your own research and explore other host agencies. If you find one that better fits your needs, that’s fantastic. But if you’d like details on the agency I use and recommend, simply click on the button below and complete the information, and I’ll provide the information so you can compare.
The cost of joining a host agency depends entirely on the agency itself, which makes this an important factor to consider when exploring your options.
Monthly hosting fees vary, and commission splits typically range from 60/40 up to 90/10, with 90/10 being the highest I’ve seen. Some agencies advertise no monthly fee, which may sound appealing at first, but they often make up for it with quotas or weaker commission structures—sometimes as low as 50/50.
The host agency I use and recommend charges a straightforward $30 monthly hosting fee with an 80/20 commission split, meaning agents keep 80 percent of their earnings. They also offer a Pro plan at $40 per month with a 90/10 split, giving agents the option to keep more of their commissions once they’ve built a stable client base.
Unlike many agencies that require hefty initiation or startup fees ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, my recommended host agency does not charge any upfront costs (except for the monthly hosting fee). Out of all the agencies I’ve evaluated, this one consistently offers some of the lowest monthly fees and strongest commission splits, backed by solid training and genuine support. That combination is why I chose them and why I recommend them to others.
If you’re ready to move forward or simply want more information, you can fill out the interest form by clicking the button below, and I’ll help connect you directly with them.
One of the biggest perks of being a travel agent is access to exclusive discounts and benefits. For example, MSC Cruises regularly offers agents deeply discounted sailings for as little as $29–$49, and some travel agents have even received a free Disney World ticket simply for completing their training. These are just a few of the many incentives available.
Agents also have the opportunity to join FAM trips—short for “familiarization” trips—hosted by hotels, destinations, and suppliers. These experiences are designed to give agents firsthand knowledge of the product so they can sell it with confidence. While they’re enjoyable, they’re also valuable for networking, meeting supplier representatives, and learning the ins and outs of the industry. Cruise lines, in particular, don’t typically offer traditional FAMs, but they do host ship tours and provide discounted fares to agents.
One of the biggest perks—and one of the reasons I became a travel agent—is the ability to earn commission on my own travel. Since I travel often and even organize trips for staff, it made perfect sense: if I’m already planning and booking travel, why not get paid for it? This benefit helps offset costs and makes frequent travel even more rewarding.
If you’d like more information about becoming a travel agent, simply complete the interest form by clicking the button below, and I’ll help you get started.
While it’s technically possible to jump into travel advising full-time, it’s rarely a wise move unless you have significant financial support. Despite what some influencers promote, this is not a “get rich quick” opportunity—and for many, it’s not even a “get rich slow” path. Success as a travel agent takes time.
Signing up may only take a few minutes, but mastering the training, learning the systems, understanding suppliers, gaining confidence in booking for others, and building a client base that trusts you is a gradual process. It’s also important to remember how commissions work: you don’t get paid until after your client completes their trip. That means if you book travel today for a family member’s vacation next year, you won’t see that commission for over a year.
For most people, the best approach is to begin as a side hustle. Start by booking your own travel, take on a few early clients, build confidence, and allow commissions to accumulate over time. Once you’ve established a solid base and proven success, transitioning to full-time becomes realistic. Many agents do eventually reach that point, enjoying flexibility, frequent travel, and a lifestyle they love—but it doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not the norm for everyone.
Patience, a genuine passion for travel, a commitment to customer service, and a willingness to keep learning are essential. Because the journey is gradual, it’s critical to choose a host agency with low startup costs, strong training programs, and affordable monthly fees.
If you’re ready to explore this “low and slow” path to extra income—not a quick-money scheme—you can complete the interest form by clicking the button below to learn more and take the next steps.
No. Travel agencies themselves are not Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) companies. However, some travel-related businesses do operate under an MLM model. Many of the big names you’ll find when searching “how to become a travel agent” fall into this category, which is one reason the industry can sometimes appear “scammy” from the outside.
What’s the difference between MLM agencies and traditional host agencies?
What host agency do you recommend?
Before becoming a travel agent, I carefully compared many host agencies. What I found was eye-opening: most operate with MLM-style business models, charge high monthly fees, and offer low commission rates—sometimes splitting earnings 50/50 or 70/30 with their agents.
That’s why I chose the host agency I work with today. Their structure is straightforward, affordable, and agent-focused, and based on my experience, I confidently recommend them to anyone considering this career path.
I don’t own this agency; I’m an independent travel agent who works through them. My experience has been genuinely positive.
How does the membership model work?
The agency I recommend uses a simple membership model:
You can start with the Basic Plan to keep costs low, then upgrade to Pro once you’ve built a stable client base, or begin with Pro right away if that structure fits your goals.
Is there a referral program?
Yes, but it’s uni-level, not multi-level. Here’s how it works:
For full transparency: if you join through my referral, I receive this benefit. And if you later refer someone, you’ll receive the same.
How do I get started?
If you’re ready to move forward, or simply want more information, fill out the interest form by clicking the button below. You’ll be connected with the host agency I recommend and can begin your journey as a travel agent.
Here’s the reality: becoming a travel agent is easier than you think. No prior experience required. That’s exciting because it means anyone with a passion for travel, or starting a business, can step into this world. But it also means not every agent is truly qualified.
Why This Is Good News for You
With the right host agency, you can launch your travel career quickly and affordably. All it takes is:
And just like that, you’re officially a travel agent.
What Sets Great Agents Apart
The best agents go beyond the basics. They:
Why Choose My Host Agency
Not all host agencies are created equal. Here’s why I recommend mine:
When I started, I didn’t rush. My first booking was for myself after one month, and I eased into helping family and friends later. That’s the beauty of this agency—you can grow at a pace that feels right for you, without financial stress or recruitment gimmicks.
Your Next Step
If you’re ready to turn your love of travel into a career, I’ll connect you directly with my host agency. Fill out the interest form by clicking the button below, register, and start your journey today.
Because here’s the truth: the world needs more great travel agents, and you could be one of them.
If you’re ready to get started, simply complete the interest form by clicking the button below, and I’ll send you all the details you need to sign up with the host agency I recommend. Once you’ve officially joined, you’ll gain immediate access to their agent portal, where you can begin onboarding and training. After your membership is confirmed, I’ll receive your information from the agency and within 1–3 business days you’ll get a welcome email from me. Eventually, I will have my own free training course for travel agents who sign up using my name as their referral. Once this course is complete, I will give you access.
Before you can book with suppliers such as hotels, airlines, or cruise lines, you’ll need to complete each supplier’s individual training, all of which is offered online. Most suppliers also provide their own booking portals, so part of your training will include learning how to navigate those systems.
There’s no contract and no obligation to remain with the agency. If you decide it’s not the right fit, you can cancel at any time with just 30 days’ notice. You’re also welcome to explore other host agencies and choose the one that works best for you. But if you’d like to move forward with the agency I use and recommend, simply submit the interest form to begin the process.