How to Become A Travel Agent in the UK (A step-by-step guide)

Want to become a travel agent in the UK? Here’s your step-by-step guide covering training, costs, flexibility and everything you need to know.

Becoming a travel agent in the UK has never been more exciting or more accessible. Whether you dream of working from home, earning extra income, or even replacing your full-time job, this guide will take you through everything you need to know... from training and startup costs to the flexibility and rewards of running your own travel business.

If you’d like to explore the opportunity straight away, check out my page 'Join the Travel Industry'

Why Become A Travel Agent? If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about holidays while stuck in the school run traffic or folding yet another pile of laundry, you’re not alone. More and more people in the UK are turning to travel as a business opportunity. Not just because they love it (although that helps!) but because the industry is thriving.

One of the biggest reasons? Personalised travel planning is back in demand. Families, couples and even solo travellers want advice they can trust, someone who actually listens to their needs and helps them book with confidence. We're all getting sick of the self-serve tills in the supermarket or the automated call centres asking us to enter endless options to get through to someone on the phone! Google can give you 1,000 options… but it can’t tell you which hotel will suit your toddler who still naps in the afternoon. That’s where a travel agent comes in.

Then there are the perks (and yes, they’re as good as they sound). As a travel agent, you often get access to discounted trips, insider deals, upgrades and the chance to travel more for less. Booking trips for others can genuinely open doors to experiences you may not have thought were possible.

But for most of us, especially parents, the real magic is the flexibility. Becoming a travel agent in the UK means you can build a business around your family. School holidays, hospital appointments, playdates, or just those moments when your little one needs you! You’re in control of your time.

And of course, let’s not forget the income potential. Travel agents earn through commissions on holidays they book, which can quickly add up. Plus, with the right business model, you can even build a residual income stream, meaning you get paid not just once, but over and over again as your business grows.

It’s not just about booking holidays. It’s about creating freedom, building something of your own and showing your family what’s possible.

Do You Need Qualifications To Become A Travel Agent in the UK?

This is one of the biggest myths out there. You do not need formal qualifications to become a travel agent in the UK. 

What you do need is access to the right suppliers, booking systems and ongoing training so you can confidently support your clients. That’s why so many people (myself included) choose to partner with a host agency. It gives you instant access to everything you need... from systems and supplier accounts to training, support and a community around you.

So, no travel degree required… just the right setup and the passion to build your business.

Curious how this works? Request my free info video to see the exact setup I use.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Travel Agent in the UK

Becoming a travel agent might feel overwhelming at first, but when you break it down, it’s actually very straightforward.

Here’s the simple step-by-step process:

Step 1: Decide What Kind of Travel Agent You Want to Be

First, think about how you’d like to work. Do you want to be an independent, home-based travel agent with full flexibility? Or would you prefer the structure of a high street agency?Most people today choose the home-based route because it offers freedom, low overheads and the ability to work around family life (This is what I do).

Step 2: Choose the Right Training and Support

You don’t need a degree, but you do need the right tools. Options include partnering with a host agency, taking online training, or completing industry courses. Look for providers that offer ATOL/ABTA protection for credibility, plus ongoing mentorship and community support; these can make a huge difference when you’re starting out. I offer free ongoing support and training throughout your journey.

Step 3: Understand the Costs of Becoming a Travel Agent

Every business has startup costs and travel is no different.

These usually include:

• A joining fee with a host agency.

• Access to booking systems and software.

• Possibly small monthly running costs.The good news? Compared to most businesses, the setup cost is low and with just a few bookings, you can cover your investment and start making profit.

  
  

Step 4: Build Your Personal Brand

Clients book with people they know, like, and trust. That’s where your personal brand comes in. I show you how to build your personal brand in my Travel Business Academy.

This includes showing you how to

• Share your love of travel on social media.

• Pick a niche you’re passionate about (family holidays, luxury escapes, cruises).

• Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to showcase destinations, hotels, and your journey as an agent.

  
  

Step 5: Start Booking and Earning

Once you’re set up, it’s time to take bookings. Most travel agents earn 10–15% commission per booking, which adds up quickly. One family holiday can mean hundreds of pounds in commission and happy clients usually rebook year after year.

Step 6: Grow and Scale Your Travel Business

As your confidence grows, so does your business.

• Upsell extras like insurance, transfers and excursions.

• Encourage referrals. Word-of-mouth is powerful.

• And if you want to go further, some travel agents also build a team of agents, creating a residual income stream.

Next step → Request the info video and I’ll walk you through the whole process.

How Much Can Travel Agents Earn in the UK?

Earnings as a travel agent vary a lot and there’s no “one size fits all.” It really depends on how much time you put in, the type of clients you work with and how you choose to grow your business.

To give you an idea:

• Starting out (part-time): Many agents make an extra £200–£500 a month from a handful of bookings.

• Consistent effort: Some agents earn £1,500–£3,000+ per month as repeat clients and referrals build.

• Top earners: Agents who who have built their business over time, specialise in an area, consistently market themselves, or even build a team can reach £5,000–£10,000+ monthly.

  
  

This business can be as big (or as small) as you want to make it. It’s not a “get rich quick” scheme... your results reflect your effort.

Common Myths About Becoming a Travel Agent in the UK

There are a lot of misconceptions about what it takes to be a travel agent, so let’s clear a few up:

• “You need travel qualifications” → Not true. What matters is access to suppliers, systems and support.

• “People don’t use travel agents anymore” → False. The industry is booming, especially since the pandemic, with more people wanting trusted advice.

• “You won’t make real money” → Wrong. Commissions plus repeat clients can quickly build into a strong income.

• “It’s just booking holidays for fun” → Reality check: it’s a business. Fun, yes! Flexible, yes! But it’s also a professional, rewarding and meaningful career.

Is Becoming A Travel Agent Right For You?

Like any business, becoming a travel agent isn’t for everyone, but it could be the perfect fit if:

• Great fit if you:

  • Love travel.

  • Enjoy helping others.

  • Want flexibility around family life.

    
    

• Not for you if you:

  • Hate talking to people.

  • Don’t want to learn new systems.

  • Aren’t willing to show up consistently.

Ready to Start Your Travel Business & Become A Travel Agent?

Becoming a travel agent in the UK is no longer limited to people with years of experience or expensive training. With the right support, you can start from home, build a flexible business and unlock opportunities to earn money while helping others create unforgettable holidays.

Your travel business journey starts with one step and now you have the guide to take it.

If this sounds like the flexible career you’ve been searching for, now is the perfect time to start.

Visit my Join the Travel Industry page to learn more and request my free information video today!