How to Become an Independent Travel Agent

One home-based job quickly rising in popularity is independent travel agent. You can work either full-time or part-time, and you can work the hours you want. The position offers rich benefits such as potentially high sales commissions and discounts. However, you will have to do your share of hard work before you get started.

Instructions

How to Become an Independent Travel Agent

1

It is usually best to join a host agency if you want to work as an independent travel agent. There are numerous host agencies you can join online. However, you should search for the agencies that are accredited by the Airlines Reporting Commission (ARC) and the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN).

2

Before you join the agency, learn how your job will work. You will book tickets, reservations and vacation packages for clients. You will earn your income principally from commissions, which are paid to you by suppliers (hotels, airlines and other companies). In order to earn commissions, you should join an agency accredited by the IATAN. Most airlines prefer to book tickets with agencies accredited by the IATAN.

3

Becoming an independent travel agent requires some training. You can usually find travel agent courses from a community college, either on-site or online. Your coursework will teach you how to use Computerized Reservation Systems and how to sell vacation packages, among other things.

4

Once you complete sufficient training, you are ready to formally join the host agency. Joining means paying initial fees (which vary widely from agency to agency) and setting up your own website. Users will book reservations and travel deals through your website. You can either build your own website or "rent" one from your host agency..

5

Now it's time to market yourself. Place an ad on Craigslist, design an ad for local bulletin boards and start generating word of mouth among your own circles. You may also want to look at search engine optimization and other online marketing techniques that can direct more traffic to your website.