How to Start Your Own Travel Business in 2025
A Beginners Guide
Introduction
Want to work from home, choose your hours, and turn your love for travel into a successful business? If you’re wondering how to start a travel business in 2025, this blog is your essential step-by-step guide.
With the travel industry thriving and demand for personalised travel planning on the rise, now’s the perfect time to launch your own venture. Whether your dream is to sell holidays, create custom itineraries, or build an online travel brand, this article contains everything you need to know to get started…
A personal note before we begin..
Everything you read here is based on my personal journey and experience within the travel industry and is intended as a guide to help you explore your options – not a rulebook. There’s no one-size-fits-all path in travel, so take what resonates, do your own research, and make decisions that best suit your goals and circumstances. I hope this gives you a solid starting point to begin building a business that reflects your passion.
Now….Let’s dive in…
What Does an Independent Travel Agent Actually Do?
An independent travel agent helps clients research, plan, and book unforgettable holidays and travel experiences – all without being tied to a traditional agency. Instead, you can work with a huge range of suppliers, tailoring every trip to your client’s specific needs.
You’ll earn a commission on every booking you make, whether that’s flights, hotels, package holidays, cruises, or even excursions and insurance.
Some agents run their business part-time alongside other work; others go full-time and build a thriving client base. The beauty of it? You get to choose.
Why Become an Independent Travel Agent in 2025?
Total flexibility: Work when, where, and how you want.
Unlimited earning potential: The more you book, the more you earn. Scale your business at your own pace.
Exclusive travel perks: Benefit from industry discounts, incentives, and FAM trips.
Make a difference: Help people create lifelong memories through incredible travel experiences.
Own your success: Build a business that reflects your passion and expertise.
Whether you’re seeking a side hustle, a full career switch, or your own travel empire, becoming an independent agent in 2025 offers freedom and opportunity in abundance.
Step-by-Step: How to Become an Independent Travel Agent
Step 1: Research the Travel Industry
Before diving in, get familiar with the travel business landscape. Understanding how travel agencies and suppliers operate will help you navigate the industry with confidence.
What to look into:
- How travel suppliers and booking platforms work
- Current trends in client preferences and holiday types
- Niche opportunities (e.g., luxury escapes, cruises, adventure travel, group tours)
Tip: Defining your ideal customer from the start helps shape your brand voice and positioning – making it easier to attract and convert the right people.
Step 2: Choose Your Business Model
You’ll need to decide how you want to operate your travel business. There’s no single “best” way — it depends on your goals, budget, and appetite for independence.
Option 1: Join a Host Travel Agency
One of the easiest and most popular ways to start your journey as an independent travel agent is by joining a host travel agency. This option gives you access to all the tools, suppliers, and training you need without the stress of setting up everything on your own.
A host agency acts as your “home base,” offering:
Access to a full booking system (flights, hotels, cruises, package holidays, tours)
Exclusive supplier deals and higher commission rates
Business support, mentorship, and community
Legal protection, licensing, and insurance already in place
Marketing resources and training modules
The freedom to run your business your way, on your own terms
Many host agencies allow you to work as much or as little as you like, with no targets or contracts giving you complete flexibility to be your own boss.
Why I Chose to Join a Host Agency
Personally, I chose to build my business through a host agency model and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’m proud to be part of a growing team called Golden Travel Collective – a supportive community of independent agents passionate about travel, freedom, and helping others create dream holidays.
What makes it so special is our individuality. Each of us runs our own business in a way that suits our lifestyle, background, and niche – from luxury escapes to solo adventures, cruise specialists to family holiday experts. We come from all walks of life, with different stories and strengths, yet we’re united by the same purpose: to make travel more accessible, enjoyable, and memorable for our clients.
It’s the kind of environment that empowers you to grow at your own pace, lean on support when needed, and stay excited about what you do every day.
The Travel Opportunity Explained:
The travel industry is thriving, and more people than ever are turning to real human support when booking holidays. With personalised service back in demand, becoming an independent travel agent is a flexible, rewarding way to turn your passion into income.
Here’s what this opportunity can offer you:
You have the ability to be your own boss, set your own hours and work whenever and wherever you want – all you need is Wi-Fi
Earn commission that is already built into travel bookings (instead of it going to big online booking sites)
Access to your own professional online booking system (just like a travel agent uses)
Endless support, training, and community guidance
Full flexibility – use the business just for yourself, friends and family, or build a thriving customer base
What Will You Have Access To?
Top-end, ABTA/ATOL-protected suppliers
Your own online travel agent portal
Marketing resources and social media content support
Comprehensive training on sales, bookings, and growing your business
A positive, inspiring community of like-minded travel entrepreneurs
How Much Does It Cost?
There’s a small monthly business running cost (think of it like paying for your shopfront if you opened a boutique).
There is an initial one time set up fee of £142/€169/$179.95. You then pay £32/€39/$39.95 a month (from the second month) which includes the following:
Your travel agent credentials
Your own travel booking system
Book hotels, package holidays, activities, tours & so much more!
Get paid on all bookings
Learn how to build a customer base
Access exclusive travel deals
Online training and support
Access team travel chat full of advice & tips!
Fundamentally, the costings are minimal per day to give you a ready made business in a box! There are:
No sales targets
No contracts
No large upfront fees
No hidden costs
You have complete freedom to use the business however it suits you – whether that’s booking just for yourself and loved ones, or growing a full-time travel career. You can read more about it here, or meet the team.
Option 2: Go Fully Independent
Prefer to have full control? Setting up your own travel agency means you’ll build direct relationships with suppliers, negotiate your own commission rates, and brand the business entirely your way. Unlike working with a host agency, going fully independent means:
- You own every part of your business – branding, operations, supplier relationships, and client experience.
- You keep 100% of your commission, but you also handle all the setup, legalities, and marketing yourself.
- You’re responsible for building direct relationships with suppliers and possibly applying for your own IATA or ABTA accreditation.
Pros of Going Fully Independent:
- Full creative and operational control — from your brand voice to your booking systems.
- Higher earning potential — no commission splits with a host agency.
- Freedom to choose suppliers and negotiate your own deals.
- No contracts or restrictions — you set your own terms.
- Build a truly unique brand that reflects your niche and values
Cons to Consider:
- Steeper learning curve — especially if you’re new to travel sales or supplier systems.
- Upfront costs — website, insurance, licensing, booking tools, and marketing.
- Time-intensive setup — building vendor relationships and trust from scratch.
- No built-in support — you’ll need to source training, mentorship, and tech tools independently.
- Delayed commission payments — often only paid after the client travels.
Hybrid Option: Start with a Host, Then Go Independent
Some agents begin with a host agency to gain experience, build a client base, and learn the ropes – then transition to full independence once they’re confident and established. It’s a great way to test the waters without diving in headfirst.
Step 3: Get Proper Training and Accreditation
While formal qualifications aren’t always mandatory, professional training can make a huge difference. Consider:
Travel and Tourism courses
Online certifications through recognised bodies (e.g., CLIA for cruise training, IATA courses)
Specialist supplier training (e.g., destination-specific or tour operator programmes)
Many host agencies offer full onboarding and continued professional development too.
Step 4: Set Up Your Business Essentials
Launch your business with confidence by setting up the right foundations:
Register your business and choose a professional brand name
Create a professional website showcasing your services
Set up social media profiles to reach and engage potential clients
Secure insurance and licensing (often included if working with a host agency)
Design marketing materials (business cards, flyers, brochures)
Organise your booking system for smooth, efficient client management
Step 5: Find Clients and Build Relationships
Success in the travel industry is built on strong relationships. Start by:
Booking holidays for friends, family, and colleagues
Asking for referrals and reviews
Sharing valuable content on social media (travel tips, destination guides)
Attending networking events, wedding fairs, and local expos
Joining online groups and communities where your ideal clients hang out
Remember: word of mouth is gold in this industry.
Step 6: Master Marketing to Grow Your Business
Marketing is how you build trust, attract your ideal clients, and grow your travel business -both online and offline. Here’s how to get started:
Online Marketing Tips:
- Start a Travel Blog: Share helpful, SEO-optimised content that answers common questions and showcases your expertise. (You’re already brilliant at this!)
- Run Targeted Ads: Facebook and Instagram allow hyper-local targeting – ideal for building visibility with nearby audiences.
- Build Your Email List: Use lead magnets (like travel checklists or guides) to grow your list, and nurture your subscribers with regular travel tips and exclusive offers.
Offline Marketing
- Partner Locally: Team up with wedding planners, gyms, or hair salons to cross-promote services – especially for honeymooners and wellness retreats.
- Host Events: Travel-themed talks, Q&A nights, or popup stalls can boost awareness and help people connect with your personality.
- Share Print Materials: Flyers, posters, and brochures placed in cafés, community centres, or coworking spaces put your business in front of warm leads
Consistency is key. Keep showing up, sharing value, and engaging authentically — it’s how you build a reputation that lasts.
Step 7: Understand Commissions and Earnings
Travel agents typically earn commissions from airlines, hotels, tour operators, and cruise companies. Typically, commissions from suppliers range from 10% to 28% of the travel purchase price.
Top Tip: At Golden Travel Collective, our host agency pays 70% to 80% of those commissions to you.
Step 8: Offer Travel Insurance and Additional Services
Adding extras like:
Travel insurance
Airport transfers
Day tours and excursions
Car hire
…can not only provide convenience to your clients but also boost your commissions.
Step 9: Stay Informed and Keep Learning
Travel trends change rapidly! Stay ahead by:
Joining travel industry associations
Subscribing to trade news websites
Attending webinars, online training, and conferences
Building relationships with destination tourist boards
The better informed you are, the more value you offer your clients.
Step 10: Scale Up for Long-Term Success
As your travel business evolves, you might start thinking about ways to grow, streamline, and expand your reach. Whether you’re fully independent or working within a host agency structure, here are a few suggestions you could explore – depending on your goals, setup, and flexibility:
Consider Helpful Tools:
- CRM Systems: A Customer Relationship Management tool can help you track leads, manage bookings, and personalise your service – some host agencies include these, while others let you choose your own.
- Email Automation: Tools like MailerLite or Mailchimp can simplify your marketing, helping you stay connected with clients consistently.
Explore Support Options
- Virtual Assistants or Sub-Agents: If allowed by your host agency (or if you’re running fully independently), hiring help with admin, customer service, or marketing can free up your time for strategy and growth.
Strengthen Client Loyalty
- Referral Programmes: A simple “recommend a friend” scheme or thank-you gift can encourage word-of-mouth and repeat business. Some host agencies provide tools for this – or you can create your own.
Keep Evolving
- Refine and Diversify: Regularly review what’s working, adjust your offerings, and explore new niches or platforms to keep your business fresh and competitive.
These ideas aren’t required – they’re just options that might support your long-term success, depending on how you’ve chosen to set up your travel business.
Common Challenges (and How to Beat Them)
Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
Finding new clients | Start with your personal network. Share your story online, create helpful content, and offer value before pitching. Hosting a giveaway or referral promotion can also spark early interest. |
Information Overload | Focus on one niche or service area to begin with – then gradually expand. Many host agencies provide structured training and support, which can simplify the learning curve. |
Staying Consistent with Marketing | Batch similar tasks, automate what you can, and don’t be afraid to delegate or outsource. Even a few hours of support a week can free up energy for strategy and growth. |
My Top Tips for Becoming a Successful Independent Travel Agent
Build trust and relationships – don’t focus only on sales
Pick a niche and become an expert in it
Always put client experience first
Stay consistent with your marketing efforts
Never stop learning and improving
Final Thoughts: Is Becoming an Independent Travel Agent Right for You?
If you’re passionate about travel, love helping people, and want a flexible career with huge growth potential, becoming an independent travel agent could be perfect for you.
This is more than a job – it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a path to freedom. You’ll get to travel the world, help others create unforgettable memories, and design a career that fits your life perfectly.
So, are you ready to turn your love of travel into a thriving career? The world is waiting for you – let’s make it happen!
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for travel into a flexible, rewarding business – you’re in the right place.
By joining Golden Travel Collective, you’ll have everything you need to succeed:
A supportive community of other independent travel agents
Access to top suppliers, exclusive travel deals, and full business training
Complete freedom to build your own business, your way – part-time or full-time
No targets, no contracts, just pure opportunity
Whether you want to book for friends and family, save on your own holidays, or grow a thriving travel business, we’d love to welcome you!
Why not maximise the opportunity?
Additionally, why not maximise this opportunity for an additional $19.95 per month (totally optional) allowing you to earn another stream of income simply by sharing this incredible travel programme with others, literally like a referral!
Become a travel marketing affiliate!
Help other like minded travel lovers start up in the industry
Build a travel community with us!
Earn additional 7 streams of income
Earn weekly & monthly
Build a willable income – your income can be passed down & continue to be paid to your family after you’re gone.
Help others create multiple streams of income.
Interested in finding out more?
You can contact me via social media, or read more about the opportunity here.
Your travel career could be just one decision away – let’s make it happen!
FAQs About Becoming an Independent Travel Agent
1. How much can I earn as an independent travel agent?
Earnings vary depending on your effort and client base, but commissions can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds per month.
2. Do I need previous experience to start?
No! Enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and a passion for travel are often more important.
3. Can I work part-time?
Absolutely. Many agents start part-time and transition to full-time as their business grows.
4. How quickly can I start earning commissions?
Depending on your marketing and networking, you could make your first booking within a few weeks.
5. Can I do this around my full time job?
Absolutely! There are no targets at all which makes it a super flexible opportunity. You can work on your online business when you want and from where you want, around any other commitments (family & other work). The majority of people start this as a “side hustle” to begin with.
6. What if I find it’s not for me?
Don’t worry, there is no contract meaning you can leave whenever you want to or cancel at anytime.
