Travel Agents

Are you curious about a career as a travel agent in the United States of America? Now you can learn what Travel Agents do, the work environment, how to become one, salary, and job outlook. 

Travel Agent Career Overview:

Travel Agents help travelers by booking their travel arrangements, such as hotel rooms and flights.  Travel Agents also coordinate other aspects of travel for a client such as transportation, activities, and tours.     

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) defines travel agents as “any person who for compensation or profit arranges for, negotiates for, or holds himself or herself out by word or conduct as capable of arranging for or negotiating the purchase, sale, exchange, rental or financing of air transportation or any other travel-related services or the hiring of vehicles for individuals or groups on behalf of such customers.

The DOL says that there are two types of travel agents:

1. independent contractors who contract with airlines and/or tour operators; and
2. employees who work for travel agencies which are called “travel agencies” or “tour offices.” 

Independent contractors are typically free to negotiate their own terms and conditions of employment.  Independent contractors also receive an independent contractor status if they have the right to use their own methods and materials and do not work for a fixed salary.  If a travel agent is considered an independent contractor, he or she will usually receive a commission or fee from the airline or tour operator for arranging a booking.

In general, Travel Agents do not have to be licensed or registered with any government agency in order to be classified as a travel agent.  They are only required to be registered if they represent themselves as a travel agent or work for a travel agency that represents itself as a travel agency. 

What does a Travel Agent do?

A Travel Agent helps travelers plan their vacations, tours, and other travel arrangements by helping them select hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.    The work environment of a Travel Agent is fast paced, demanding, and stressful.  Travel Agents are on the front lines of travel; they are responsible for making sure travelers have a pleasant trip.  As a result, Travel Agents must be well organized, efficient, have excellent communication skills, and be able to deal with difficult situations.  Travel Agents must be good at multi-tasking and must be able to be flexible to meet client needs.  They need to have strong customer service skills, a friendly attitude, and be comfortable working with people from all different backgrounds and cultures.  A Travel Agent must have a solid knowledge of tourism and travel related topics. Travel Agents may be required to work long hours, and this could potentially be stressful for some people.

Travel Agent Job Description:

Travel Agents book travel arrangements for their clients, including hotels, flights, cruises, and car rentals. Clients may include business travelers, vacationers, and students traveling to an educational institution. Travel Agents work with clients by communicating with travel vendors such as airlines, cruise lines, and other agencies to obtain and confirm travel services. To book a flight, the Travel Agent works with the customer to choose a departure and arrival date, then the Travel Agent arranges a hotel room for the traveler at the desired location and price. A Travel Agent is also responsible for selecting a rental car that best suits the client’s needs. The Travel Agent also makes any necessary reservations or bookings of activities or tours for the client.

Travel Agent Job Skills & Training: It is important that a Travel Agent has good communication skills and strong organizational skills in order to be successful.

You are strongly encouraged to watch both videos about travel agents below, take good notes, and then visit the comments section below and share your thoughts and your knowledge on travel agents in the United States of America.