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#1 CHOICE FOR TRAVEL AGENT CERTIFICATIONS

Award-winning educational programs and resources for travel agents and agency owners..

Wanderlust Campus is where travel entrepreneurs come to grow. We're the travel industry's leading provider of online travel agent training programs, consulting, tools and resources to support travel agents and travel agency owners at every stage of their growth journey.

Our travel agent education programs

BEST FOR: Aspiring Travel agents

BEST FOR: Aspiring and new travel agents

BEST FOR: Experienced travel agents

The Travel Agency Launch Kit includes everything you need to successfully launch your travel business in 30 days or less.

A SNAPSHOT OF The Launch Kit …

The Travel Agency Launch kit includes everything you need to successfully launch your travel business in 30 days or less. This is a wonderful starter kit to get your business launched and start making your first sales. It also helps you avoid painful mistakes (what to avoid & common pitfalls that can set you back years). It’s 100% on-line, self-paced, with all the training, tools and done-for-you resources included. It has lifetime access to the training membership site, where your content and training is hosted.

This program IS PERFECT FOR YOU IF…

Resources may not allow for a certification right now but you are dedicated and serious about scaling your own portable, profitable travel business.  You want to curate a special brand that will grow with your goals, and even though you are new, you see yourself working independently in the future.  That’s great!  You also understand that how you set up your business now will make a huge difference in your ability to scale your business later.

The Careers on Vacation Mastermind for aspring and new agents teaches you everything you need to know to get your travel business optimized for success – from initial set-up to intentional launching and scalable growth.

A SNAPSHOT OF Careers on Vaction…

This is our signature and most popular program. Careers on Vacation™ is our 12-week immersive mastermind program for aspiring, new or experienced agents (we have two learning tracks based on your experience). We are an ASTA affiliated travel school, and as a graduating participant you will receive the Careers on Vacation certification, recognized industry wide to use in your marketing.    We offer full support as you set up your marketing machine, sales, service, and operational systems. Get access to our personal team of leading experts as we support you in the real world set up and application, this is what is so different about our program and why we have the best results in the industry.

You want the best travel agent certification available to set you up for success. You are dedicated and serious about scaling your own portable, profitable travel business.  You want a viable business, not just an occasional hobby.  You value the ability to call your own shots, and want to curate a special brand that will grow with your ambitious goals.  You also understand that the right support and training & having proper systems in place is critical for fast growth. 

The Careers on Vacation Mastermind for experienced agents teaches you everything you need to know to bring scalable growth to your travel business – from operations to sales and marketing.

Why we're the leader in travel agent education and certification:

asta affiliated

most 5-star reviews

industry-recognized certifications

top ranked program

most case studies in the industry

magellan award-winning

Program case studies.

Stephanie started her journey as a travel professional by earning her Careers on Vacation Certification. She later went on to earn her agency certification in the Wanderlust CEO program. Today she runs an award winning agency with over 300 travel professionals, and is a member of our multi-million dollar club.

Stephanie P., Pickles Vacations

Jess earned her Careers on Vacation Certification in 2018. She graduated out of her hosting environment and today she is still happily running her highly successful travel business full time.

— Jess M., vida travel co.

Working with us has its perks

From start up essentials to business building tools, mastermind participants receive exclusive perks and discounts on the industry's best services – and they're only available to our community!

Marketing Tools

Legal Tools

Agent Tools

CRM Systems

Vetted Hosts

Events & Retreats

Meet cyndi and her team, dedicated to helping you launch and grow a profitable travel business.

Jodie earned her Careers on Vacation certification in 2018. She went on to scale a hugely successful agency and became a Disney EarMarked agency in record time. Also a member of our multi-million-dollar club, today she enjoys traveling the world while running her amazing agency.

Jamie earned her Careers on Vacation Certification in 2020. She then went on to earn her agency certification in our Wanderlust CEO program. Today Jamie has built a team of over 70 agents, and is featured on stages nationwide to advocate for accessible travel. She is a proud member of our multi-million dollar club.

— Jamie S., Adventures By Jamie

Watch the Free Masterclass

Wondering if becoming a travel agent is right for you .

Our travel agent trainings and certifications have helped thousands of people successfully transition into making travel their new way of life. Grab a spot in our masterclass and learn the simple systems our clients use to create wildly successful travel businesses in record time.

TravEducate

Revolutionizing

Travel agent education, learn more about our training.

Welcome to the World of Travel

Comprehensive Course for New and Experienced Travel Agents

In-Depth Exploration of Diverse and Dynamic Travel Industry Aspects

Offers Valuable Knowledge, Practical Skills, and Deep Insights

Equips Agents to Create Memorable and Seamless Travel Experiences

Fundamental for Aspiring Proficient, Well-Informed Travel Professionals

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Mastering hotel bookings.

Cruising For Newbies

Traveducate: Travel Education

Empowering Travel Professionals

At Traveducate, we are dedicated to empowering both aspiring and established travel professionals.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Modern Travel Our mission focuses on bridging traditional travel knowledge with the dynamic requirements of modern travel.

Comprehensive Training for Travel Agents We offer an extensive range of topics, covering everything from itinerary planning to digital tool mastery.

Fostering a Community of Travel Experts Traveducate is more than a training platform; it's a community for learning and growth.

Leading Innovation in Travel Education

As a visionary in travel education, Traveducate continually evolves its course offerings to stay at the forefront of the industry.

Nurturing Future Leaders in Travel

Our vision extends to nurturing future leaders in travel. 

Essential Guide to Travel Agent Training and Certification for Success

Looking for travel agent training and certification? Discover the steps to becoming a certified travel agent with our guide. You’ll find information about recognized training programs, various certification levels, and insights on how these credentials can boost your career. Whether you’re starting or looking to advance, this resource has everything you need to make informed decisions about your professional development.

• Enroll in recognized travel agent training and certification programs to build a strong educational foundation and enhance professional credibility in the growing travel industry.
• Achieve certifications, ranging from entry-level to advanced, to indicate professional growth, specialize in niche markets, and increase job satisfaction and earning potential.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and requirements through ongoing education and networking, ensuring a competitive edge and access to new opportunities in the dynamic travel industry.

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

Exploring Travel Agent Training Programs

Embarking on a career in the travel industry begins with comprehensive travel agent training programs. These programs are meticulously crafted to arm you with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in this vibrant industry. Whether you’re aiming to cater to vacation clients with bespoke itineraries or facilitate business travel with seamless transportation arrangements, a solid educational foundation is key.

Internet-based travel agent training provides an in-depth grasp of the travel and tourism industry, readying you for diverse roles, spanning from organizing tour packages to excelling in independent travel booking. And with the travel industry’s growth showing no signs of slowing down, enrolling in a travel agent training course is the ideal launchpad for your career development.

Online vs. In-Person Training

In the realm of agent training, the choice between online and in-person options resembles the decision between a guided tour or a solo exploration. Each has its merits. Online travel agent programs shine with their flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and fit learning into your busy schedule. The allure of a flexible online course is undeniable, especially for those balancing work or family commitments.

On the flip side, in-person training immerses you in the hustle and bustle of a classroom environment, fostering interaction and immediate feedback from both peers and mentors. However, this path demands a commitment that might encroach on your existing responsibilities, a significant consideration for those juggling a busy work schedule.

Industry Recognized Training Institutions

Navigating the vast waters of the travel industry necessitates not just an ordinary compass, but one recognized by industry leaders. This is where prestigious institutions like The Travel Institute and CLIA come into play, offering certifications that are your golden tickets to credibility and networking within the travel industry professionals’ circle. These certifications are not just accolades to hang on your wall; they are beacons that guide you to better opportunities and serve as a testament to your commitment to one of the world’s largest industries.

Travel Agent Training Certification Options

As you carve your path in the travel industry, certifications serve as landmarks indicating your advancement. These credentials range from entry-level to advanced, with each tier designed to suit travel agents at different points in their voyage. An entry-level certification, like the Certified Travel Associate (CTA ), is your first stamp of professional recognition, while the Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) are accolades that seasoned professionals aspire to attain.

Moreover, the ExpertRating Travel Agent Skills Certification is a shining beacon on a resume, signaling to employers and clients alike your proficiency and dedication to your craft. And let’s not forget the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test – a rite of passage that holds the integrity of the profession to the highest standards, much like a captain’s license in the realm of navigation.

Entry-Level Certifications

The onset of a travel career starts with the foundational knowledge provided by entry-level certifications. These certifications are the ABCs of the travel industry, teaching you the language of travel, from the nuances of arranging tour packages to understanding alternative booking arrangements for airline and ground transportation.

The Certified Travel Associate (CTA) certification, a highly sought-after credential held by over 17,000 travel professionals worldwide, is akin to a traveler’s first passport stamp, proving one’s readiness to explore the industry’s depths.

For those with a wanderlust for knowledge, the Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP) certification by IATA is a comprehensive journey, expected to be completed in 150-200 hours, that covers the full spectrum of travel essentials.

And for those taking their first steps, the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test is a gatekeeper, assessing your fundamental knowledge and skills in the travel domain, including a travel agent’s typical duties.

Advanced Certifications

For the experienced travel industry professional, advanced certifications represent a journey through unfamiliar territories, urging you to discover beyond the horizon. The Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) designation is a testament to a travel agent’s vast experience and deep-seated knowledge, requiring at least five years of industry experience and a commitment to comprehensive higher-level coursework. The curriculum is not just about destinations and bookings; it delves into:

• Leadership training
• Conflict management
• Team building

These are essential skills for those at the helm of their successful career.

The CTC certification journey is a rigorous one, but it’s a path that distinguishes you as a navigator of the fast-paced travel industry.

Niche-Specific Certifications

Occasionally, the most unforgettable journeys are the less frequented ones, and niche-specific certifications empower travel professionals to forge their distinctive trajectory in the industry. Imagine becoming a Certified Destination Specialist (CDS) , armed with a treasure trove of knowledge about specific locales, from local customs to hidden gems, allowing you to craft unforgettable experiences for your clients. The Master Cruise Counsellor (MCC) certification is another coveted title, requiring not just book knowledge but also real-world sailing experience, proving your mettle in cruise sales.

These specialized programs, such as those offered by The Travel Institute, enable agents to gain a deep understanding of various global and domestic travel destinations and become the go-to expert for travelers seeking specialty travel experiences. Such designations not only elevate your professional status but also grant you the privilege of adding coveted initials to your name, enhancing your market presence.

How to Choose the Right Travel Agent Certification

The compass you opt for can determine your journey’s success, and choosing the appropriate travel agent certification follows the same principle. It’s a decision that should be anchored in career objectives, personal interests, and the unique skills you bring to the table. Certifications carve a path for agents aspiring to steer their own business, equipping them with the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of travel management.

For those dreaming of launching their own travel agencies, certifications are the building blocks that lay the foundation for a successful career.

Assessing Your Career Objectives

To guarantee your certification selections steer you towards your career goals, align them with your professional growth needs and aspirations. A strategic approach to travel career development involves pinpointing your goals and charting a study plan that will guide you through the certification process.

Identifying the certifications that will reinforce your career’s inception in the travel industry, including health and safety protocols, resembles choosing the appropriate equipment for an expedition – crucial for a triumphant journey.

Evaluating Your Experience and Skills

As you traverse the sea of professional growth, pause to anchor and evaluate your current position. Your experience and skills are your compass, guiding you to the certifications most suited for your voyage.

For instance, the CTA certification journey requires a minimum of 18 months of industry experience, ensuring that candidates have enough time at sea to understand the intricate dance of travel arrangements. Furthermore, these certifications are not mere titles; they are attestations of your ability to master the complexities of travel regulations, destination insights, and customer service excellence.

Considering Your Passion and Interests

Choosing the suitable certification extends beyond professional expertise; it also involves tracing the map of your passions and interests. When your certification aligns with what ignites your spirit, you not only enjoy the journey but also excel in your craft.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of eco-tourism or the thrill of adventure travel, niche certifications allow you to specialize in areas that resonate with your personal interests. This specialization not only fuels your enthusiasm but also connects you with clients who share your passion, fostering stronger bonds and more personalized service.

Pursuing and Maintaining Your Travel Agent Certification

Commencing the journey to acquire and uphold travel agent certifications represents an investment in your future. These credentials are not just badges of honor; they are symbols of your unwavering commitment to this dynamic profession. As the travel landscape continues to evolve, certifications become even more crucial, setting you apart as a specialist in a competitive market.

Yet, the quest for certification requires a balance of dedication and adaptability, ensuring that you remain at the forefront of industry trends and technological advancements.

Preparing for Certification Exams

Preparing for certification exams is a voyage on its own, where careful planning intersects with earnest study. Arm yourself with an arsenal of resources – textbooks, online courses, and practice tests – to navigate the waters of examination with confidence.

Allocate dedicated study times, diving into the material in manageable segments to ensure you’re not swamped by the breadth of knowledge required. And don’t forget to cast a wide net, gathering information from a variety of sources, including industry news and updates from leading travel figures, to keep abreast of the latest trends that might surface on your exams.

Balancing Work and Certification Efforts

The task of harmonizing work with certification endeavors resembles scheduling flights in the high season – it necessitates strategic organization and precise time management. A master calendar becomes your best ally, allowing you to juggle client needs with study sessions seamlessly. Communicating your availability to clients and employing out-of-office notifications are tactful ways to manage expectations while dedicating time to your studies.

And when it comes to maintaining service quality, delegating tasks to a trusted colleague can be a lifesaver, ensuring that your clients remain in good hands as you pursue your certification goals.

Staying Current with Industry Trends and Requirements

In the rapidly evolving travel industry, remaining static is equivalent to regressing. That’s why ongoing education is the rudder that keeps your career on course. Maintaining certifications like CTA, CTC, and CTIE requires annual Continuing Education Units (CEUs), ensuring you never drift from the cutting edge of industry knowledge.

Immersing yourself in educational trips and industry events, while staying informed through newsletters and consumer periodicals, keeps your expertise as fresh as the morning sea breeze. Moreover, embracing the digital tide by following hashtags like #luxurytravel and #sustainabletravel can reveal emerging trends that will captivate your business and vacation clients and keep you sailing ahead of the competition.

The Impact of Travel Agent Certification on Career Growth

The path to becoming a certified travel agent is transformative, influencing not only your professional identity but also your career’s trajectory. Certifications are the wind in your sails, propelling you towards greater professional heights and opening new horizons of opportunity. They not only enhance your credibility but also provide valuable networking avenues and, perhaps most enticingly, the potential for an increased earning potential.

For many, the pursuit of certifications is a voyage towards a more fulfilling career, with a higher level of job satisfaction and a lasting commitment to the travel industry.

Boosting Professional Credibility

In the eyes of clients and industry peers, certifications are a beacon of professionalism, signaling a deep commitment to one’s craft. As a certified agent, you stand out from the crowd, showcasing an elevated level of expertise and establishing trust with those you serve. The certifications from The Travel Institute, in particular, are like the stars by which sailors navigate, guiding clients to see you as a knowledgeable and reliable professional.

In a world where clients research their options extensively, staying updated with relevant certifications can be the deciding factor that steers them to your door.

Enhancing Networking Opportunities

The journey of a travel agent is often a solo one, but certifications can introduce you to a vast network of fellow explorers and industry leaders. They open doors to associations and groups that can be instrumental in helping you establish your own business management company or simply expand your professional network.

The relationships formed through these channels can be as rewarding as the discovery of a new destination. They provide:

• Support for groups planning trips
• Opportunities to collaborate on group travel projects
• Opportunities to tap into collective knowledge during non-business hours.

Increasing Earning Potential

Certifications extend beyond mere titles; they represent investments that can produce substantial returns. Agents with certifications like CTA, CTC, or CTIE report not just higher job satisfaction but also higher earnings, reflecting the tangible value of advanced learning in the job market. It’s a fact that certified agents from The Travel Institute and CLIA often boast annual earnings that soar above the industry average, demonstrating the financial benefits of continued education and certification.

With these credentials, travel agents sell transportation and navigate a sea of opportunities, reaching the shores of financial success and an expected growth rate in their careers that outpaces those without such accolades.

Your Passport To Learning

Follow your curiosity and see your business flourish!

Why Travel Agent Academy?

AWARD WINNING CONTENT

Designed to help you learn and retain information in fun and interactive ways.

EARN REWARDS

As graduates take advantage of rewarding loyalty programs available.

INCREASE BOOKINGS

Travel Agent Academy empowers agents to confidently sell as specialists.

CERTIFICATION

Show off your knowledge and expertise with Travel Agent Academy diplomas.

GAIN CREDITS

Earn Travel Institute CEU Credits. Some courses offer credits from the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA).

LEARN ON THE GO

iOS Tablet compatible courses allow you to learn from anywhere on your own time, at your own pace.

course promotions

FORT MYERS – ISLANDS, BEACHES AND NEIGHBORHOODS

Graduate from the Fort Myers Specialist Program by April 30 to be entered to win a $75 gift card!

LA PAZ SPECIALIST PROGRAM PROMO

Graduate the La Paz Specialist program by June 2nd, and get entered for a chance to win $100!

Course Catalog

ALGVPro: Travel Advisor Special Program

Join over 120,000 of your fellow travel agents to earn, learn and grow in the premier leisure travel marketplace.  

Allianz Partners

Offering travel insurance is an important part of the travel sales process, because providing protection for those hard-earned vacations helps you deliver the best value and highest level of service to your customers.

Arizona Specialist Program

Arizona’s landscapes are brimming with natural beauty, adventure, history, wellness, art and culinary flavor. Enroll to help your clients discover the best of what the Grand Canyon State has to offer!

Aruba Certified Expert Program

Learn how Aruba is “One Happy Island” for couples, families, active vacationers and pure beach relaxation-lovers alike.

Atlantis Ambassador

Become empowered! Discover how to create unforgettable vacations at our unique resort destination, with unparalleled entertainment and awe-inspiring recreation.

The course is an insider’s guide to working with Audley, with details about the company’s  approach to travel and helpful tips on how to work with the company’s team of travel experts. By mastering the Audley approach to travel, advisors can provide clients with memorable travel experiences while at the same time powering your own business forward.

Catalonia Hotels and Resorts

Learn how Catalonia Hotels & Resorts can help you tailor seaside Mexican and Caribbean vacations to delight clients pursuing a wide variety of dreams.

Condor Airlines Specialist Program

Find out how Germany’s boldly evolving air carrier enhances the entire travel experience for your Europe-bound clients, while giving you a chance to earn commissions

Costa Rica Specialist Program

From its golden shores, playful waves and pristine waters to its mystical rainforests, simmering hot springs and majestic volcanoes, Costa Rica brims with "pure life." Learn how to tap into it!

Dominican Republic Specialist

Impress your discerning clients with tailored recommendations on the best attractions, activities, food, beaches and areas to stay in the Dominican Republic. Enroll today to bring a vacation of endless possibilities to life!

Fort Myers – Islands Beaches and Neighborhoods

Discover how to craft a vacation that will tempt even your busiest clients to slow down and soak in the good life!

Grand Sirenis Specialist Program

Discover the essence of what makes Grand Sirenis Hotels & Resorts an irresistible vacation choice in Punta Cana and the Riviera Maya.

Greater Miami and Miami Beach Specialist

Learn to sell Greater Miami both as a singular destination and a cruise extension to be explored by travelers with all sorts of interests, from cuisine to the arts to outdoor life.

Guanajuato Specialist Program

The state of Guanajuato invites all to come celebrate life in the heart of Mexico. Enroll to learn about its Magical Towns, vineyards and many historic, cultural and recreational attractions.

Hawaii Destination Specialist Program

This free, online educational program delivers in-depth insights as well as valuable sales tools so you can #LetHawaiiHappen for your clients. You can take it anytime, at your own pace, to become a booking pro.

Hyatt Inclusive Collection’s Confidant Collective

Explore the Confidant Collective , a comprehensive suite of best-in-class tools designed to help you succeed including Confidant Rewards , Confidant Learning and Confidant Connect .

Israel Specialist Program

Let us help you position Israel in new ways for your clients and make their trip one of a lifetime – with more to come!  

Jamaica Travel Specialist Program

Discover how to send clients on a quest for their own authentic experience of Jamaica -- and strengthen your partnership with this ever-popular destination.

Japan Travel Specialist Program

Learn to sell Japan’s endless discoveries, including both modern and ancient treasures, as well as stunning natural landscapes with a beauty all their own.

Jordan Travel Specialist

Explore how Jordan, which once captivated ancient travelers, continues to enthrall a whole new generation as a modern, vibrant nation.

Key Lime Academy

Like the destination itself, Key Lime Academy has been designed to educate, inspire and entertain while unveiling all of what the Florida Keys has to offer.

Korea Specialist Program

Imagine your client’s dream vacation. Imagine their Korea! Explore this fascinating country’s incredible diversity of experiences.

La Paz Specialist Program

Graduate by June 2nd and be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card! Located in an ever-trending tourism region, La Paz will immerse your clients in local living – a little off the beaten path but in the heart of culture and outdoor action in Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Loreto Specialist Program

A charming community that has long celebrated the best of life, Loreto truly fulfills the notion of a hidden gem within a trending vacation spot – in this case, the seaside coastline of Mexico’s southern Baja California peninsula.

Los Cabos Specialist Program

Check out the latest information on this ever-popular destination and explore Los Cabos' dynamic portal to strengthen business partnerships.

Majestic Resorts Specialist Program

From the best beach locations to the vast inclusions and special golf offerings, discover why your clients will be glad they vacationed with Majestic Resorts.

Malta Specialist Program

Malta is packed with pleasures: ancient towns and archaeological sites; expansive beaches and spectacular scenic vistas; award-winning diving experiences, and much more.

Nayarit Specialist Program

Learn about the many ways to experience an authentic side of Mexico and discover some surprises along the ever-popular Riviera Nayarit.

Oasis Hotels and Resorts Specialist Program - US and CA English

Learn how to match your clients to the perfect Oasis property – including all-inclusive beachside properties in Cancun and Tulum, EP hotels in downtown Cancun – with many choices for customization.

Oasis Hotels and Resorts Specialist Program - CA French

Disposant d'un nouveau chapitre sur le Grand Oasis Tulum, un sanctuaire de beauté situé sur une plage calme de la Riviera Maya qui offre un accés à tout, du paddle-board à la plongée sous-marine dans des eaux remplies de poissons -- ce programme vous aidera à vendre une gamme encore plus large d'expériences de vacances. 

Princess Hotels and Resorts

Become a Princess Hotels & Resorts Specialist With a Wedding Specialist Option

Puerto Vallarta Specialist Program

Enveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win the hearts of your clients. Learn how to easily craft a great vacation here!

Saudi Expert Travel Training

Open up extraordinary realms of travel experiences, from outdoor adventure to vibrant cultural events. An excellent destination for clients seeking something new!

St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra Specialist

Founded in the 16th century, St. Augustine's history runs deep -- and so does its sense of adventure. Learn about this multifaceted culinary magnet and neighboring golf paradise Ponte Vedra on Florida's Historic Coast.

Sunny Isles Beach Miami

Learn all about Sunny Isles Beach's pristine beaches, stunning resorts and lush parks, as well as the laidback elegance and easy pace that truly define a "getaway."

Find out about the brand’s award-winning Riviera Maya properties! Then craft vacations that truly immerse your clients in beauty that complements the lush, mystical host destination.

Tobago Specialist Program

Discover what all the happiness is about – and how to share it with your clients – by enrolling in the Tobago Specialist program!

Travel Technology Specialist Program

This course is designed for the ambitious travel advisors eager to boost their expertise in the intersection of travel and technology. 

Windstar Star Specialist Program

Learn what makes Windstar Cruises “180 Degrees from Ordinary” as you begin earning badges in three categories: Our Yachts, Our Destinations and Our Itineraries.

Testimonials

Since taking the Greater Miami Specialist course I have a greater understanding of the Miami area which in turn has helped me sell more vacations. I can better accommodate  the kind of vacation my clients specifically request. This has helped my business so much. I am so glad I took the time to take the course. Thank you!   Kathryn Rezza Travel Curator, Virgin Voyages

I received a recommendation for the Oasis Hotel and Resort training on Travel Agent Academy from a fellow travel agent.  I took the training and shared the training with my team.  Taking the training afforded me the knowledge to share with my clients, building trust and increasing my sales. The smooth process was captivating and left me eager for more. Having insights into the properties we recommend to our clients is essential. I've sent several clients to Oasis, and they came back with enthusiastic reviews. As a travel agent, receiving outstanding referrals is rewarding, especially when clients genuinely appreciate the property. Rita Wiggs The Travel Pit

Over the years I’ve completed several Travel Agent Academy courses. Most recently, because of a personal trip, I completed the course for the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. I had been to Guanajuato City previously but felt I needed to learn more about the state to fully embrace the destination. The course gave me an in depth understanding of this fabulous area from the quaint Pueblos Magicos (Magic Towns) to the thriving wine region to the amazing archeological sites. This training has it all. Most people know Guanajuato as the home to the colonial town of San Miquel de Allende but there is so much more. This course will help you plan an unforgettable vacation for your clients and have them experiencing a Mexico that few see. Brenda Thomas, CTA Somewhere Now 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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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 our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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.

7 Best Online Travel Agent Training Programs

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

With online studies, your career as a travel agent starts with a laptop, access to the internet, and a click.

If you spend hours daydreaming about the perfect vacation and love being a part of every last planning detail, a career in travel is right for you.

If you want smooth sailing and to help vacationers’ trips go off without a hitch, a travel agent career is for you.

Start turning travel dreams into a reality for clients.

How do you get the certification and training you need to launch a career as a travel agent?

Check out these best online travel agent training programs.

1. Penn Foster

2. the travel institute, 3. stratford career institute, 4. travel agent campus, 5. grand canyon university, 6. iap international association of professions career college, 7. ashworth college, what courses are in an online travel agent training program, can you earn an online travel agent training program certification completely online, how long does it take to earn an online travel agent program certification online, how much does an online travel agent training program certification cost, bottom line, best online travel agent training programs.

Most online courses prepare you to sit for the Travel Agent Proficiency TAP exam to earn your travel and tourism certification.

The TAP test takes two hours to complete.

The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.

Or, continue your education to get your Bachelor of Science BS degree in hospitality.

After obtaining the necessary credentials, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 66,300 jobs in travel await those who pursue them, with an anticipated 3 percent job growth.

Travel agents earn an average of $46,400 annually, or $22.31 per hour.

The American Society of Travel Advisors, ASTA, and The Travel Institute developed the TAP certification examination.

Pass the TAP to launch your travel agent career.

Earn your TAP certification and then continue your education by attaining your Certified Travel Associate CTA certification.

Or, specialize in specific types of travel like the following:

• Family travel
• Accessible travel
• Rural tourism
• Pet-friendly travel
• Cruise lines
• Sustainable travel
• Eco-friendly travel
• Solo travel
• Luxury travel
• Romantic getaways
• Destination weddings
• Honeymoon travel

Take a look at the best options for online travel agent training programs.

Check out the following top online training programs:

Penn Foster Online offers courses at levels from high school to college degrees.

Learn everything you need to understand about the travel and tourism industry through this accredited school.

Penn Foster offers an affordable and accredited online Travel Agent Career Diploma.

The program prepares students for entry-level travel agent careers.

Study at your own pace with access to a dedicated faculty.

The Penn Foster online program prepares students for the TAP Travel Agent Proficiency certification exam.

Studying through Penn Foster also allows you free enrollment in a Destination Specialist course at The Travel Institute to help prepare you for the Destination Specialist certification exam.

Fast-paced learners complete the course in as short of time as nine months.

The average student takes 15 months to prepare for work as a travel agent.

Go on to work in an agency, a tour company, an airline, or any travel agent capacity.

The travel agent certificate online program usually costs $989.

Catch a sale to find it as low as $799.

The Travel Institute has a history of preparing individuals for successful and rewarding careers in the travel industry since 1964.

More than 25,000 students claim success through learning with The Travel Institute.

With more than 50 years of training travel agents, the Travel Institute offers certification as a non-profit organization.

The online program aims to develop travel professionals who will better the industry and benefit travelers.

The online training offers their own TRIPKIT Travel Industry Introductory Program.

The Travel Institute also offers certification courses and training in areas of specialization in the travel industry.

Before deciding on a course, sign up for one of many free Webinars.

Gain a solid foundation of knowledge to kick-start your career in travel in up to 12 months of study.

Become a Certified Travel Counselor CTC for $550.

Or, if you already have five years of industry experience, take the Fast Track course.

The Travel Institute also offers Certified Travel Associate CTA and Certified Travel Industry Executive CTIE courses.

Stratford Career Institute is privately owned and established in 1991.

The Institute offers quality at-home vocational training programs to students in North America.

Stratford foresaw the need for emerging education for busy adults and offers distance learning.

SCI provides the opportunity for students to learn in the convenience of their own home with a flexible schedule.

This online school is a member of the United States Distance Learning Association, the Canadian Network for Innovation in Education, and the International Council for Open and Distance Education ICDE.

SCI also has academic affiliations with Institutional Accountants ICIA and The Travel Institute.

If you love to travel and want to turn travel planning into your career, Stratford Career Institute online offers a comprehensive travel and tourism course.

Learn the basics and then move into more advanced topics.

Delve into sales and marketing with this self-paced course.

Complete the course in a year or shorter.

Some students are ready for the next step after six months.

The Stratford Career Institute Travel and Tourism online course will prepare you to sit for the TAP test.

Learn everything you need about landing a job and continuing work as a successful travel agent for $1,049.

Catch the course on sale for $499 during Black Friday or other sales throughout the year.

The Travel Agent Campus is a highly sought-after travel agent/advisor online training and certification program.

Train with lessons developed by innovators of their independent home-based travel agent learning platform.

Learn from instructors who offer more than 30 years of training to those new to the travel business.

The Travel Agent Campus allows you to work at your own pace.

Learn everything you need to know to earn your online travel agent certification in two weeks.

Or, take less time.

Most students finish the course in about three to ten days.

Pay $995 in full, or break it down into monthly payments.

Once you start your travel career, earn as much as 70 percent to 90 percent commission.

Learn at home about the vast travel industry and tourism at your own pace in partnership with TPI Travel Planners International.

Get started in your career of planning, researching, and booking trips with the help of this online course.

Grand Canyon University GCU offers a private for-profit university.

GCU is the largest Christian university in the world, teaching 70,000 online students and 20,000 on-campus learners.

Take your time and earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management.

By attaining a BS in Hospitality Management, you open doors to a solid career in travel.

With Grand Canyon University, earn your degree after studying 120 credit hours at approximately $485 per credit.

The online courses each last eight weeks and are self-paced.

You may participate in Web chat sessions or view lectures online throughout the courses.

If you have already earned college credit, transfer credit hours to reduce your overall expenses.

Apply for scholarships to save more on tuition costs. Also, enjoy extensive discounted tuition for active military personnel.

Study online to receive your travel consultant certificate from a program featured by Oprah, ABC, CNN, and The Wall Street Journal.

IAP Career College offers a private online career learning opportunity.

This online college allows students to develop skills to advance their careers or start a business.

Learn the principles and techniques of the travel industry through an affordable online program.

IAP Career College online Travel Consultant Certificate Course takes approximately six weeks to complete.

Some students get done faster, by four weeks.

Others take a full 12 weeks to complete.

Work online at your own pace without teaching assistance.

The IAP course costs approximately $377.

Catch a special sale to get it for as inexpensive as $149.00.

Ashworth College offers career education that teaches practical skills employers want without breaking the bank.

This online school is among the most affordable online schools available to gain travel agent certification.

All of the career-focused courses at Ashworth College include books, lessons, study guides, and academic guidance.

Earn your certification among more than 300,000 students who have graduated from Ashworth.

Ashworth College offers an online travel agent training program to prepare you for work in the travel industry.

The course of study covers reservations, customer service, and geography.

Study entirely at your own pace to prepare for the TAP test certification in less than a year.

Earn your travel and tourism diploma to work with planning tours and management positions.

Pay $989 with monthly payments of $799 paid in full.

Ready yourself to take the Travel Institute Travel Agent Proficiency Test after completing the course.

Ashworth College additionally provides a toolkit with resume templates and other resources to help you land a travel career.

Online travel agent training programs offer courses that teach everything you need to prepare you as a travel agent.

Some of the typical courses included in travel agent training programs include:

• Air travel ticketing, reservations, and baggage handling, including North American Air Travel
• Geographic studies, including popular travel destinations, cultures, customs, and top attractions while exploring the world
• Tourism and the History of tourism, including types of tourism and how travel impacts the economy
• TAP Travel Agent Proficiency Certification studies include customer service, consumer-focused professionalism, specialized travel sales techniques, marketing, office skills, and time management.
• Advanced skills in journey pricing and ticketing
• BSP Agent billing reports and agent remittance procedures
• Learn about required documents for international trips
• Intro to Tourism Management to establish a foundational understanding of the tourism business
• Delve into the challenges of the hospitality industry as a career
• Aspects of Transportation Learning how to navigate domestic and foreign transportation systems such as air, railway, or cruises
• Convention and Special Event Planning, including conferences, trade shows, arranging travel, lodging, booking the best venue, and organizing food services
• World Regions, including time zones, weather, and climate
• International Travel Documentation
• Customer-focused selling and understanding customer needs
• Accepting and processing payments
• Travel Insurance
• Car Rentals
• Tour Sales and Niche Marketing
• Hospitality
• Global Distribution System GDS and establishing Passenger Name Record PNR
• Career Options in Travel
• Types of Tours and Tour Operators
• Fares and ticketing
• How to start an at-home travel agency
• Business Ethics and writing skills
• The Art of listening and communicating

Several online colleges, universities, and career training centers offer a complete program to attain the skills needed in the travel industry.

One of the benefits of studying online is that you learn at your own pace.

Earning an online travel agent certification varies in how long it takes .

Spend a few days, two to three weeks, or stretch it out.

Combine your studies with an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s degree, and take two to four years.

Pursue one or all of the travel agent certifications, including the following:

• Travel Agent Proficiency TAP
• The Certified Travel Associate CTA – Requires one year of industry experience or completion of the Travel Agent Proficiency TAP exam.
• Certified Travel Counselor
• Certified Travel Industry Executive
• ASTA Verified Travel Advisor VTA from the American Society of Travel Advisors ASTA
• International Air Transport Association IATA
• Travel Industry Designator Service TIDS
• Certified Cruise Counselor CCC from the Cruise Lines International Association CLIA
• Accredited Cruise Counselor ACC
• Master Cruise Counselor MCC
• Elite Cruise Counselor ECC

Online training costs in the travel industry vary based on how long the program is, whether the institution is accredited, and any specializations you pursue.

It ranges in cost from approximately $100 to about $1,000 to complete certification.

Some online programs include an exam fee, so expect to spend about $2,000 or more.

Once you obtain the certification, expect ongoing studies to maintain the certification.

Agents must earn ten continuing education credits CEUs per year.

Pursue your dream of adventure and love for travel.

Obtain your certification to start work in the travel and tourism industry fast .

Study through the best online travel agent training programs.

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Many people’s dream job is to travel and get paid!

While travel agents are only sometimes traveling, as they need to help plan and use their resources to set itineraries while getting the best deals, they must be knowledgeable about various places.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent, several educational paths exist to help you reach your goals.

The most common approach is an online travel and tourism diploma program, which is readily available.

If you want to dive deeper into the field, associate and bachelor’s degree programs are available but still require the fundamental core classes and can take up to four years to earn.

On the other hand, a certificate degree can be achieved in under one year.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent and are searching for a reputable online program, keep reading to learn more!

Best Online Travel Agent Programs

Despite being necessary for tens of thousands of travelers worldwide, travel agency positions are relatively niche.

Therefore, only a few online travel agent programs exist, including the following:

American Society of Travel Advisors

The ASTA offers a Verified Travel Advisor certification program, which helps students hone travel and tourism skills while providing a broad industry perspective.

This online, self-paced course is highly flexible, as students can complete the required coursework on their own terms.

Lessons for the primary certification include the following:

• Advanced Public Speaking – improves public speaking capabilities through actionable information.
• Agency Relationships and the Law – learn about your legal obligations to your clients, liabilities, and legal rights.
• Ethics for Travel Advisors – students must review and agree to the 12-point Code of Ethics, which builds client trust.
• Legal Overview for the Travel Agency Industry – taught by an attorney about legal issues surrounding taxes, liability, insurance, fees, and more.
• Marketing YOU! – maximize your value by promoting your business using effective marketing tactics.
• Project Management and Planning for the Travel Advisor – learn how project management and planning are critical to the industry and how to apply these techniques within your business.
• Real-World Sales Tactics – learn tactical solutions for improving your consulting and selling skills.
• The Art and Science of Negotiation – negotiating is a critical aspect of a successful travel business that allows you to get the best prices for your clients.
• U.S. Travel Agency Regulatory Compliance – helps travel advisors avoid costly regulatory mishaps.

The ASTA member program price is $399, the non-member independent travel advisor cost is $627, and the non-member travel advisor price is $789.

For those seeking re-certification, the tuition cost is $179.

Ashworth College

As one of the leading online vocational schools, Ashworth College helps students explore travel and tourism careers.

Their diploma in travel and tourism comprises coursework like The Global Distribution System, Types of Travel, and Travel Geography.

The program begins by teaching students the business fundamentals and ends with how to establish an exciting career as a travel agent or in other travel-related fields.

Program graduates have moved into numerous careers, from corporate travel at significant companies to starting a travel agency business.

Cayuga Community College

The entirely online Tourism Management certificate from Cayuga Community College is a 30-credit-hour program that prepares students for entry-level careers as travel agents, destination marketing organizations, tourism bureaus, tour companies, or working for tourism promotion agencies, hotels, inns, cruise lines, and visitor centers.

This self-paced certificate program allows students to work and attend school on their own schedule.

The faculty teaching these courses is the same online as on-campus, and students can transfer credits from other schools instead of retaking the class.

Colorado State University

CSU offers an online master’s degree in tourism management for those looking to make a career change or advance further in the industry.

This program focuses on developing students’ business management insight, helping them understand global tourism’s environmental and social impacts, and enhancing their knowledge of standard industry practices.

Furthermore, the faculty focuses on new technology, an evolving marketplace, and international events impacting tourism activities.

Throughout the nine-month program, students will learn more about financial management tools and processes, effective communication and marketing strategies, how to use data to guide business strategies, and how to manage resources and people ethically and strategically.

The program has 30 total credits and costs $794 per credit hour, regardless of if you live in-state or out-of-state.

Cruise Lines International Association

CLIA offers numerous online certification programs, including Accredited Cruise Counselor, Certified Cruise Counselor, Master Cruise Counselor, Elite Cruise Counselor, and Travel Agency Executive (TAE), a broader certification beyond cruises.

TAE was developed for management travel agency professionals currently employed by a CLIA Affiliate Agency and may be selling travel products.

To be eligible, candidates must work in a leadership capacity within the travel industry.

Those accepted into the program have two years from enrollment to complete the program and submit the required documentation.

The curriculum includes the following mandatory courses:

• Better Listening Skills for Better Business
• Building Client Loyalty
• Cruise Industry Leadership 501
• Cruise Industry Leadership 601
• Customer Relationship Management
• Effective Cruise Presentations 101
• Marketing 101
• Public Relations 101

Attendees must also select one elective training requirement: three CLIA online courses and live seminars, earning the CTA, CTC, or CTIE designation, or holding an undergraduate or graduate business degree.

Additionally, students must have two personal travel experiences: two cruises of at least two nights or be a CLIA Global Cruise Line Member.

Penn Foster Career School

Penn Foster and Ashworth College typically frequent the same list as best online vocational schools.

Like Ashworth, Penn Foster boasts an excellent travel agent diploma.

If you are passionate about travel, the program prepares you to work for tour companies, cruise ships, airlines, and travel agencies.

Many graduates also opt to open a travel agency business or in a corporate travel position.

The travel agent course prepares students for the Travel Agent Proficiency certification exam.

The curriculum includes Computerized Reservation Systems, Tours and Vacation Packages, Exploring the World, International Travel, World Geography, North American Air Travel, and The Travel Professional.

The school also offers a Destination Specialist course to expand student skills in the field further.

Tuition for the entire program, including materials, is $799, but the school offers flexible monthly payments for those who cannot immediately pay in full.

Stratford Career Institute

The Stratford Career Institute Travel Agent Program was developed for those who love to travel and want to transition that passion into a career.

The course covers basic and advanced topics that benefit aspiring travel agents and novices.

The curriculum includes Destination Geography, Travel and Booking Trends, and Corporate and Leisure Travel.

Students can expect to also learn about sales and marketing techniques, ticket prices and fees, and common fares within the industry.

The Travel Institute

Founded in 1964, The Travel Institute has granted just under 30,000 certifications since its founding.

The school has over 145 approved programs and has been awarded 3,600 scholarships since 2014.

The school offers a Certified Travel Associate (CTA) program, which covers 15 critical study areas developed to focus on the required skills for becoming a North American travel consultant.

To enroll in the program, candidates must have at least one year of industry experience selling travel products and services or pass the Travel Agent Proficiency exam with an 80 percent score.

To earn the certification, candidates must pass the CTA examination with at least a 70% score.

To maintain the certification, candidates must earn 10 continuing education units or more annually and be registered in the Certified Travel Agent Directory, which is a public document.

The skill modules range from travel insurance and planning itineraries to business ethics and business writing.

Best of all, the program can be taken entirely online in digital or digital plus print formats for those who prefer learning using physical materials.

The program offers peer support, one—on—one counseling, practice scenarios, and expert tips via videos from industry executives.

The digital version costs $550, while the digital plus print option costs $650.

What Courses Are in an Online Travel Agent Program?

Travel agent programs vary greatly based on the type and level of the coursework and the industry type.

The most common travel agent courses cover the following topics:

• Advising clients on local activities.
• Booking trends.
• Customer relationship management.
• Determining travel costs.
• Developing alternative travel plans when schedules change.
• Discuss essential information with clients.
• Informing clients about required travel documents.
• Legal aspects of the travel industry.
• Marketing techniques
• Negotiating hotel rates.
• Planning itineraries.
• Project management and planning.

Can You Earn a Travel Agent Certification Completely Online?

Since there is no in-person requirement to become a certified travel agent, all certifications can be completed online.

Depending on the educational level in the tourism industry that you wish to achieve, the school may require an internship to gain firsthand experience in the industry, dealing with clients.

Experts advise students at all levels to enroll in an internship, which can help make you marketable for future potential employers, develop professional contacts, have a higher probability for direct job offers, and expand your transferrable skills.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Travel Agent Certification Online?

The online travel agent certification time commitment ranges based on the educational level you wish to achieve.

More basic certificates can be earned in a few months, whereas bachelor’s degrees in travel and tourism can take four years or more if you plan to enroll in an internship.

The primary difference between the certificate and diploma programs and the associate and bachelor’s degree programs is the latter requires foundational core classes, and the former focuses solely on travel agent topics.

However, the associate and bachelor’s degree programs tend to go more in-depth on many travel and tourism topics and offer additional opportunities to take specialized electives, which could also make you a more marketable candidate.

Also, the more education received, the higher salary you could earn after graduation compared to those with a lower level certification.

How Much Does an Online Travel Agent Certification Cost?

Like the time commitment required for travel agent certification, the cost varies based on several factors, including the training length, the school’s reputation, specialization, and financial aid availability.

The most basic certification programs cost between $330 and several thousand for a program lasting several months to one year.

Specialization programs for those with related training can cost around $550.

For those seeking higher education, an associate degree can range from several thousand dollars per year to over $10,000.

A bachelor’s degree can cost thousands of dollars for the entire program.

Suppose you’re considering a private school for associate or bachelor’s degrees.

In that case, it’s advisable to complete the core classes at a local community college with significantly less expensive credit hours, then transfer in the credits and take the travel and tourism classes at the private school.

This could save tens of thousands of dollars in the long term. Another option is to look for scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities.

As the world reopens, travel and tourism are at an all-time high for adventurers wanting to get outside and explore new cultures.

Although technology continues to improve and create itineraries and plans for travelers at the click of a button, travel agents are still needed due to their professional connections and relationships with hotels, travel and transportation companies, restaurants, airlines, and other travel-related businesses.

Therefore, they continue to be in high demand to get their clients the best possible prices.

For those looking to enter this dynamic and exciting field, there are plenty of online educational opportunities from which to choose.

Schools like The American Society of Travel Advisors and The Travel Institute focus on preparing students for industry certifications.

Ashford College, Penn Foster, and the Stratford Career Institute are some of the best online colleges available, so they use technology so students can succeed.

Cayuga Community College and CSU are more traditional schools with multiple educational levels beyond certificates, and the Cruise Lines International Association emphasizes coursework related to cruise travel.

Many options depend on your academic and career goals, so determine where you want to go next!

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Welcome to Travel Agent Campus

Become a certified travel agent/advisor, online training & certification.

Choose the Platinum Standard and the most sought-after Travel Agent / Advisor Online Training & Certification. The training is developed by the innovators of the independent home-based travel agent / advisor concept and the host / support travel agency model. 30+ years training individuals that are new to the business to experienced travel professionals. Our online training allows learners to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful Travel Agent / Advisor.

No matter your level of experience, comprehensive online training allows you to work online at your own pace as you gain all the tools necessary to become a travel agent/advisor from home. Within 3 to 10 days you will have earned your travel agent/advisor certification. Then, we will help you open your travel business with our host/support travel agency TPI - Travel Planners International earning a hefty 70% to 90% commission.

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No experience needed.

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We all dream of working from home -- let alone making our own schedule while doing so. Why not have both? Once you're finished with your online training, not only will the dream of making money from the comfort of your couch become a reality, but you'll also get to determine when you work.

Exclusive Travel Discounts

The benefits of becoming a travel agent/advisor don't end with the freedom of working when you want and doing so from the comfort of home. You'll also receive exclusive travel discounts that you can share with your family. Just imagine visiting some of the most beautiful places on earth with those who matter most -- all at a fraction of the cost!

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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

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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

More Resources

The Ivy League of Travel Agent Schools

What is a Travel Agent License?

How to Select the Best Host Travel Agency For Your Business

What is a Host Travel Agency?

How Much do Travel Agents Make?

Travel Agent Certification

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What's on your travel bucket list?   I'd go to Italy again, Vietnam, Belize, Southern US, NYC, Wine Train in N. California, I could go on for days……

What do you do for fun when not traveling? Ride my horse, Paxon with my husband, Doug. Play with my dogs, Tater and Lilly. Fly fishing, spending time with friends and family. 

What's your favorite destination? Mexico.  I love the culture, the food, the beaches, and the wonderful people.

Share a fun fact about yourself:  I have lived in Montana, Colorado, Hawaii and Wyoming. I now live in Sheridan Wyoming which has been voted the #1 Western Town in the United States. I live in a small log home with my Husband Doug, 3 dogs and 2 horses. I met my husband in Cabo San Lucas and we lived 10 minutes from each other in Denver, Colorado at the time.

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Tourism Remaining relevant to travel agents

Modern Airline Retailing is an active and important initiative for airlines around the world. But though control of the Offer and Order environment is an essential component in a fiercely competitive industry, IATA is aware that not all airlines have the same set of requirements and distribution strategies.

“This is why the Agency Program is still so important,” says Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s SVP for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services. “IATA accredited agents are trusted distribution partners, and our Agency Program allows airlines and agents to come together to solve challenges and ensure this vital channel remains strong.”

Moreover, the Agency Program fits perfectly with the overall objective of giving customers greater choice. The travel agent is still a vital part of the offer to the customer and has become a hub for consolidating the travel experience. Travel agents are also playing an important role in Modern Airline Retailing as IATA continues to see an increase in NDC transactions in the BSP.     “Really, they are travel consultancies now,” says Albakri. “They provide an end-to-end service and are now much more than ticket providers.”

In 2023, the travel and tourism sector contributed 9.1% to global GDP and created 27 million new jobs, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. Airlines are critical to making that happen. And so are travel agents.

In fact, travel agents are still the industry’s strongest distribution channel. The aim, therefore, is to ensure these agents are robust, reliable partners and the process of engagement—whether it is payment or fulfilling passenger requests—is as seamless and cost-effective as possible.

Keeping the program relevant

The most important step was the development of New Generation IATA Settlement Systems (NewGen ISS) approximately five years ago. This introduced different levels of accreditation:

• Go Global is for large multinational agents and simplifies BSP participation by having a single agreement and a consolidated financial security and Remittance Holding Capacity.
• Go Standard agents are allowed to sell in cash and other forms of payment.
• Go Lite agents benefit from not having to furnish financial securities to participate in BSP and are allowed to sell with IATA EasyPay and Credit Cards.

Airlines in turn gained from enhanced risk management and other tools that made the distribution of tickets through travel agents even safer.

“It is not one-size-fits-all anymore,” says Albakri. “Agents can join at an appropriate level of accreditation for their business but still gain from the trust and reach that being accredited brings.”

Supporting the recovery of the industry

After COVID, IATA focused on revamping the accreditation process and streamlining the requirements. The Go Standard agents do not have to go through a financial assessment for the first two years of operation, for example. All told, the changes have resulted in a 50% reduction in accreditation times and a customer satisfaction of 90%.

“We did all this without compromising the risk management criteria,” says Albakri. “In fact, we have enhanced it by adding different compliance reviews, such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), as a requirement for agencies selling in credit cards, and more robust real-time monitoring of agency sales. But we can improve further both on continuing to strengthen the risk environment and on improving IATA’s service to travel agents by reducing our processing times.”

The improvements in the accreditation process together with the resilience shown by the Agency Program during the pandemic has led to strong demand and growth in accreditation numbers.

“We have also been more present in events and different meetings where travel agents approached us to know more about the benefits of the program and the requirements to become IATA accredited,” says Albakri. “In addition, IATA has historically entered into promotional agreements with different parties to increase the number of Participants and we are fully committed to continuing with this best practice.”

As a result, the number of travel agent codes in the BSP has increased from 54,341 in 2022 to 58,923 codes in April 2024.

For Albakri, this proves that as long as there continues to be a commercial relationship between airlines and travel agents, the program will continue to be extremely valuable. “Agents will be even more relevant in the future than they were in the past,” he believes. “The Agency program is at the heart of industry resilience because it is a strong, trusted system for distributing and selling tickets and collecting monies. There is also a very low cost of transaction and IATA will continue to improve the service we provide.”

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