how much do personal travel agents make

How Travel Agents Get Paid (Explained in Simple Terms)

How Travel Agents Get Paid

Planning a trip can be a lot of work, and it’s easy to see why people would want to hire a travel agent to help them out. Travel agents can take care of everything from booking flights and hotels to securing transportation and activities. But how do travel agents get paid?

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different ways that travel agents earn their income. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of using a travel agent, so you can decide if it’s the right option for you.

There are three main ways that travel agents get paid:

• Commissions: Travel agents typically earn a commission from the airlines, hotels, and other travel providers that they book through. The commission is a percentage of the total cost of the trip, and it can range from 5% to 20%.
• Markups: Some travel agents mark up the prices of the travel products that they sell. This means that they charge you more than the actual cost of the trip. The markup is typically around 10%, but it can be higher or lower depending on the agent.
• Fees: Some travel agents charge a flat fee for their services. This fee can range from $50 to $200, and it typically covers the agent’s time and effort in planning and booking your trip.

Pros and Cons of Using a Travel Agent

There are both pros and cons to using a travel agent. Here are a few things to consider before you decide whether or not to use one:

• Convenience: Travel agents can take care of all the details of your trip, so you can relax and enjoy the planning process.
• Expertise: Travel agents have a lot of experience in the travel industry, and they can help you find the best deals on flights, hotels, and other travel products.
• Personalized service: Travel agents can work with you to create a custom itinerary that fits your budget and interests.
• Cost: Travel agents can be expensive, especially if you’re using a high-end agency.
• Conflicts of interest: Travel agents may be tempted to book you on flights or hotels that give them the highest commission, even if it’s not the best option for you.
• Lack of transparency: Some travel agents may not be upfront about their fees or commissions.

Whether or not you use a travel agent is a personal decision. There are pros and cons to both options, so you need to weigh them carefully before you make a decision. If you’re still not sure, you can always get quotes from a few different agents and compare them to see which one offers the best value for your money.

Travel agents are paid in a variety of ways, including commissions, fees, and salary. Commissions are the most common form of compensation, and they are paid by airlines, hotels, and other travel providers. Fees are another way that travel agents earn money, and they are charged to clients for services such as booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. Some travel agents also receive a salary, which is typically paid by a travel agency or tour operator.

In this article, we will discuss how travel agents get paid, including commissions, fees, and salary. We will also explore the different types of commissions and fees that travel agents earn, and how these payments are calculated. Finally, we will discuss the impact of commissions and fees on travel agent compensation.

Commissions

Commissions are the most common form of compensation for travel agents. They are paid by airlines, hotels, and other travel providers when a travel agent books a reservation for a client. The amount of commission that a travel agent earns is typically based on the cost of the trip. For example, a travel agent might earn a commission of 10% on the cost of a flight or a hotel room.

There are a few different types of commissions that travel agents earn. Base commissions are the most common type, and they are paid on the sale of a travel product or service. Incremental commissions are paid on top of base commissions, and they are typically based on the number of additional products or services that a travel agent sells. Override commissions are paid to travel agents who refer clients to other travel agents.

Commissions are typically calculated by the travel provider. The travel provider will send the travel agent a commission statement that shows the amount of commissions that were earned on each booking. The travel agent can then deposit the commissions into their bank account.

In addition to commissions, travel agents can also earn money by charging fees to their clients. These fees can be charged for a variety of services, such as booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. The amount of the fee will vary depending on the service that is being provided.

There are a few different types of fees that travel agents charge. Booking fees are charged when a travel agent books a reservation for a client. Service fees are charged for services that a travel agent provides, such as providing advice or assistance with a booking. Cancellation fees are charged when a client cancels a reservation.

Travel agents can charge fees to their clients in a variety of ways. They can charge a flat fee for each service that they provide, or they can charge a percentage of the cost of the trip. The travel agent can also choose to waive fees for certain clients, such as those who are repeat customers or those who book large trips.

Some travel agents receive a salary rather than commissions or fees. This is typically the case for travel agents who work for a travel agency or tour operator. The salary will vary depending on the company and the level of experience of the travel agent.

Travel agents who receive a salary are typically responsible for generating their own leads and booking their own clients. They may also be required to sell other products or services, such as insurance or travel accessories.

Impact of commissions and fees on travel agent compensation

The amount of commissions and fees that a travel agent earns can have a significant impact on their compensation. Travel agents who earn a high percentage of commissions on their bookings can make a good living. However, travel agents who earn a low percentage of commissions or who do not generate enough business may not be able to make a living wage.

The impact of commissions and fees on travel agent compensation can also vary depending on the type of travel agent. Travel agents who work for a travel agency or tour operator typically earn a salary, which is not affected by the amount of commissions or fees that they earn. However, independent travel agents who work on commission typically earn a higher percentage of commissions than those who work for a travel agency or tour operator.

Travel agents are paid in a variety of ways, including commissions, fees, and salary. The amount of commissions and fees that a travel agent earns can have a significant impact on their compensation. Travel agents who earn a high percentage of commissions on their bookings can make a good living. However, travel agents who earn a low percentage of commissions or who do not generate enough business may not be able to make a living wage.

1. Commissions

How travel agents earn commissions from airlines, hotels, and other travel providers

Travel agents earn commissions from airlines, hotels, and other travel providers when they book a reservation for a client. The amount of commission that a travel agent earns is typically based on the cost of the trip. For example, a travel agent might earn a commission of 10% on the cost

3. Other Sources of Revenue

In addition to commissions from booking travel, travel agents generate revenue from a variety of other sources, including:

• Insurance sales: Travel agents often earn commissions on insurance policies that they sell to their clients. These policies can include trip cancellation insurance, medical insurance, and baggage insurance.
• Marketing: Travel agents can earn revenue by marketing their services to potential clients. This can be done through online advertising, social media, and offline marketing methods, such as print advertising and direct mail.
• Consulting: Travel agents can also earn revenue by providing consulting services to their clients. This can include helping clients plan their trips, choose the right destinations, and book the best deals.

The importance of diversification

It is important for travel agents to diversify their revenue streams in order to protect themselves from fluctuations in the travel industry. For example, if commissions from travel bookings decline, travel agents can still generate revenue from insurance sales, marketing, and consulting.

4. The Future of Travel Agent Compensation

The travel industry is constantly changing, and the way that travel agents are compensated is no exception. In recent years, technology has had a major impact on the travel industry, and this has led to changes in the way that travel agents are paid.

• The impact of technology on travel agent compensation

Technology has made it easier for consumers to book their own travel arrangements. This has led to a decline in the number of travel agents, and it has also put pressure on travel agents to reduce their commissions.

In order to compete with online travel agencies, travel agents are increasingly using technology to provide their services. For example, travel agents can use online booking tools to help their clients book their travel arrangements. They can also use social media to market their services and to connect with potential clients.

• The challenges and opportunities facing travel agents in the future

The travel industry is facing a number of challenges, including:

• The rise of online travel agencies: Online travel agencies have made it easier for consumers to book their own travel arrangements, which has led to a decline in the number of travel agents.
• The changing needs of consumers: The needs of consumers are changing, and travel agents need to adapt their services in order to meet these changing needs.
• The impact of technology: Technology is changing the way that travel agents do business, and travel agents need to embrace technology in order to remain competitive.

Despite these challenges, there are also a number of opportunities for travel agents in the future. These include:

• The growth of the travel industry: The travel industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, which will create new opportunities for travel agents.
• The increasing demand for personalized travel services: Consumers are increasingly looking for personalized travel services, and travel agents are well-positioned to provide these services.
• The growth of the luxury travel market: The luxury travel market is growing, and travel agents can tap into this market by providing high-end travel services.

The travel agent industry is changing rapidly, and the way that travel agents are compensated is changing with it. Travel agents need to be aware of these changes and adapt their businesses accordingly in order to remain competitive.

How do travel agents get paid?

Travel agents typically earn a commission on the sale of travel products, such as flights, hotels, and car rentals. The commission is typically a percentage of the total cost of the sale, and it is paid by the travel supplier (i.e., the airline, hotel, or car rental company).

How much do travel agents get paid?

The commission that travel agents earn varies depending on the type of travel product sold and the travel supplier. In general, commissions range from 5% to 15% of the total cost of the sale.

Do travel agents get paid if a customer cancels their trip?

Yes, travel agents typically get paid a commission even if a customer cancels their trip. However, the amount of the commission may be reduced or forfeited if the cancellation is made close to the departure date.

What are the benefits of using a travel agent?

There are many benefits to using a travel agent, including:

• Expert advice: Travel agents can provide expert advice on the best destinations, travel deals, and ways to save money.
• Convenience: Travel agents can handle all of the details of your trip, from booking flights and hotels to arranging transportation and activities.
• Peace of mind: Travel agents can help you avoid problems and ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

How do I find a good travel agent?

There are a few things you can do to find a good travel agent, including:

• Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have used a travel agent.
• Read online reviews of travel agents.
• Contact a few different travel agents and interview them to see if they are a good fit for you.

What questions should I ask a travel agent before booking a trip?

There are a few important questions you should ask a travel agent before booking a trip, including:

• What types of travel products do you specialize in?
• How long have you been in the business?
• What are your commission rates?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• What is your customer service policy?

By asking these questions, you can make sure that you are working with a reputable travel agent who can help you plan a successful trip.

there are many different ways that travel agents get paid. The most common is through commissions, which are a percentage of the total cost of the trip. Other methods of compensation include flat fees, rebates, and referral fees. The best way for a travel agent to get paid is to find a commission structure that works for them and their clients. By understanding the different ways that travel agents get paid, consumers can make informed decisions about who they use to book their travel.

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How Do Travel Agents Make Money? [The Travel Agent Business Model]

In the past, travel agents made money from commissions from airlines and hotels. And while this is still a key revenue source for travel agents, the increasing prevalence of online booking has made them look for new sources to diversify their income. So, how do travel agents make money today?

Below, we explain the different ways in which independent professionals and online agencies generate revenue in the ever-changing travel industry. By understanding the rewards that come with taking on the role of a travel agent, you will gain insight into this often-overlooked career path and how it could fit into your own life goals.

How Do Travel Agents Work?

Travel agents work to provide their clients with a stress-free and personalized travel experience by taking care of all the details and providing expert advice and support. Travel agents can work independently or for travel agencies. 

The key role of a travel agent is to assess their client’s needs and make the necessary recommendations and arrangements based on them. Services provided by travel agents include:

• Consultation – Determining the client’s travel needs, budget, and preferences. This includes asking questions about the purpose of the trip, the desired destination, preferred travel dates, accommodation preferences, and any specific requests or requirements.
• Research – Identifying the best travel options available for the client (flights, hotels, rental cars, tours, and activities).
• Booking – Making travel arrangements on behalf of the client.
• Confirmation – Verification of all details related to the booking, including providing the client with the necessary information, such as flight times, hotel reservations, and tour details.
• Follow-up – A travel agent may provide advice on travel visas, travel insurance, packing tips, and other travel-related issues.

How Do Travel Agents Get Paid?

The most common way a travel agent gets paid is from commissions from airlines, cruise lines, or tour companies for packages sold. The commission rate varies depending on the type of travel and the agreements with travel providers. 

Additionally, travel agents get paid a fee by their clients for their services. The amount of the service fee is entirely up to the agent and is related to the type of services provided. Typically, it’s charged for arranging some or all segments of the travel.

If the travel agent is employed by an agency, then just like any other employee, they’ll receive a salary or hourly wages.  

Net price overages are also an option for many agencies. So, for instance, if an agent books a certain number of hotel rooms, the vendor gives them a discount which is then marked up, and the difference is kept by the agency. 

Some travel agents may also earn additional revenue by offering travel insurance or upgrades to accommodations or transportation.

Travel Agent Business Model

The simplest way to describe the business model of travel agents is to go by the main source of income. Based on this, there are two types of business models:

• Commission-Based 

The commission-based business model allows travel agents to earn a percentage of the total cost of a travel package, such as flights, accommodations, and activities. Depending on whether the package is domestic or international, travel agent commissions may be as low as 5% or as high as 20% or more. 

• Service-Fee-Based

In a service-fee-based business model, travel agents charge their clients a service fee for their expertise or assistance in planning a trip. If the travel agent is in the role of an advisor, they may recommend a popular destination or deal on a specific trip. 

Alternatively, they may provide help for any given element of the trip, from booking a hotel room or flight to booking a spa treatment. The fee charged can be a flat rate or a percentage of the total trip cost. 

It’s important to note that with the rise of online booking platforms, the travel industry has become more competitive, and many travel agents use a combination of commission and service fees, plus access to exclusive deals and pricing. This way, they’re able to offer their clients a unique and personalized experience while staying competitive in the market. 

How Travel Agents Make Money

Here are the most common ways travel agents make money.

1. Travel Insurance Sales

Travel insurance is essential to ensure your trip is protected in case of any unexpected changes or emergencies. Travel agents can sell insurance policies for their clients, which provide coverage for things like flight cancellations, lost luggage, and medical expenses. Depending on the policy sold, agents can earn up to 40% in commission.

2. Cruise Sales

Travel agents may receive a high commission or bonus on cruises based on the number of rooms booked by their clients. Typically, the commission rate for cruises is around 12%. This is because a large number of passengers are required to fill a ship.

Note that a significant portion of clients’ bills is taxes. For instance, a booking for cruise berths priced at $4,000 might include taxes amounting to $1,500. When booking cruises, agents earn commissions only on the portion of the cost that is not taxed.

3. Car Rental

Depending on the car rental agency, agents may earn between 8% to 10% commission on bookings. Other travel agents charge a flat fee of $20–$40 for making the reservation with the car rental company. 

The car rental industry is highly competitive, so the key here is for travel agents to establish relationships with different companies and shop around for the best rates for their clients.

From visiting vineyards in Tuscany to exploring the rainforest in Costa Rica, tours are an excellent way for clients to get the most out of their travels. Agents can earn commissions ranging between 10% and 20% when they book a tour package and may also receive incentives such as free rooms or discounts on future trips.

5. Premium Listings

Car companies, airlines, and cruise lines pay handsomely for premium listings on travel agents’ sites. This gives the company more visibility and may help them generate more revenue. Typically, agents negotiate a commission for booking trips with these companies or charge a flat fee for providing access to the website.

6. Vacation Packages and Deals

If a travel agent is employed, they can use the buying power of their agency to get discounts and special offers which they can then pass on to their clients in the form of reduced hotel rates, exclusive deals, and other incentives. Usually, the commission rates for booking vacation packages range between 10% and 15%.

7. Niche Travel

Focusing on a niche area can be highly profitable for travel agents because it allows them to refine their expertise and cater to clients seeking a specific type of trip, like wedding and honeymoon or sports travel.

Some agents have two distinct branches of their business. The first covers travel to various destinations worldwide, while the second specializes in a particular theme like yachting, wine, or culinary adventures. For instance, an agent could sell packages for resorts and cruises while also organizing unique wine or food-related trips.

8. Mode of Travel

Vacationers have options beyond just using traditional modes of transportation like planes, trains, and cars. For instance, they can choose to explore an area by cycling from one spot to another. It’s the agent’s responsibility to arrange the logistics of the trip, from transportation to the actual adventure.

9. Corporate Travel

Many travel agents make their money by organizing custom trips for corporations. From organizing team building, corporate retreats, or special rewards trips, corporate travel is an excellent source of revenue and provides the opportunity for the agent to make long-term relationships with companies.

Travel agents may be paid an hourly fee for their services and/or a commission on airline tickets, cruises, and hotels and resorts. They could also receive incentives to book certain properties or activities, such as golf courses or spa treatments. 

How Much Do Travel Agents Make Per Booking?

A travel agent’s commission may be as low as 5% or as high as 30% and depends on various factors such as the type of booking, the element of travel, and the vendor they book with. In addition to commissions, travel agents’ income can come from other sources, such as service fees. 

For example, if a travel agent earns a commission of 10% on a $2,000 booking, they would make $200. However, if the booking is a complex itinerary, such as a multi-country trip, and the travel agent charges a service fee of $200, their total income from that booking would be $400.

Do Travel Agents Get Paid Hourly?

Yes, travel agents can be paid by the hour, and it’s a more common type of compensation for travel agents who work for larger agencies. The average hourly pay of travel agents in the US currently stands at $17.71 and goes as high as $28 per hour in states like New York, California, and Nevada.

However, travel agents are typically compensated in different ways, and their pay structure may depend on the company they work for and the type of travel they book. And while some are paid on an hourly basis, most receive a salary or are paid on a commission basis.

How Much do Travel Agents Make? Answers to all Your Questions

A travel agent’s job is rewarding – watching families, couples, or friends embark on the adventure of a lifetime. But it takes a lot of hard work and determination to get to where you can live off of your earnings.

How do travel agents actually make money?

Stick with us as we explore how travel agents get paid to do what they love!

How do travel agents get compensated, and who pays them?

Many new travel agents often start out by working for a host agency . Their host is partnered with suppliers like hotels, cruise lines, resorts, airlines, and transportation services.

When you join a host agency, you have the benefit of earning higher commission levels. You’ll be provided with credentials and a list of their preferred suppliers so you can begin planning and booking vacations for your clients. 

Once your client has gone on their vacation, the supplier pays your host agency a pre-negotiated commission. Your host then pays you or your business a percentage of this amount, based on the membership plan you have with them.

Before a travel agent can get paid, though, they need to submit documents (like a reservation confirmation) detailing their client’s bookings. This tells the host company the vacation is legitimate, not a fabricated story to earn money.

Sheila’s recommendations: If you are searching for a host agency or would like to make a switch, we recommend checking out Host Agency Reviews . Remember though, that not every host is listed on their site. Some of the smaller and more hands-on host agencies may be better suited for you, such as Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, a boutique agency for the aspiring luxury travel agent, and Pickles Travel Network , whose founder built her business under the guidance of renowned travel training coach, Cyndi Williams of Careers On Vacation .

Some travel agents decide to venture out on their own. They apply for Seller of Travel credentials, an IATA, CLIA, or TRUE number. The downside of not being under a host agency when starting your travel business is that you must negotiate your commission levels with each supplier. Oftentimes, your commission is lower since you do not have the volume of business a long-standing agency or a host may have. However, there are ways to boost your commission level to 20 and even 30 percent. Tammy Levant of Travel Agent Success Kit (TASK) program teaches her proven methods for maximizing profits throughout the year.

Travel agents also earn money by charging planning or research fees. These fees cover the time you spend on researching or planning an itinerary for a client. It’s a great way for you to make sure your time stays valuable, and you aren’t working for free.

Now that you understand how travel agents get paid and who pays them, let’s explore how much money they make.

How much money do travel agents make?

It varies widely. Some travel agents only make around $10,000 every year while others can make a cool $100,000 on a few bookings alone.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , a travel agent’s median earnings are around $44,000. Definitely nothing to sneeze at!

As someone who started out small, Travel Industry Solutions’ founder, Sheila Folk, says that she made nearly six figures during her first year. After streamlining her process, focusing on customer service, and attracting her ideal client, she steadily built her personal book of business to millions a year and now realizes a steady six-figure income.

Anything is possible when you put your mind to it!

You may be wondering: How do I actually earn that much? Keep reading to find out!

9 Ways Travel Agents Make Money

Travel agents make money in a variety of ways.

For many, much of their income is from commissions, but there are other ways travel agents can get paid.

Who doesn’t want to earn more money? Let’s find out how you can make more today with just a few tweaks to your business plan:

• Commissions

As we already mentioned, earning money from your commissions is by far the most common strategy for any travel agent. How much will you receive for the different kinds of travel services out there?

One cardinal rule is specialization. The more you can give your client a unique experience by utilizing your resources and area of expertise, the more your services are worth.

• Specialized Travel

If you’re an expert at planning unusual vacations or visits to exotic destinations, you can market your services to clients who are looking for something out of the ordinary. Another possibility is to specialize in a particular type of travel, such as cruises or business travel. By becoming an expert in a specific area, you’ll be able to offer your clients better service and advice.

3. Cruise Lines

Some cruise lines offer some of the highest commission rates, particularly if you are under a host agency or book a large volume of trips with one or two cruise lines. These types of vacations are popular among groups, couples, or families and require less time to book than a multi-component land package, making this an important earning machine. And, when you focus on luxury cruising, you often have customers who become brand loyal. These customers tend to sail with their preferred cruise line multiple times per year.

• Airline tickets

While airline tickets don’t pay as much, and sometimes not at all, they are in high demand right now as travelers aren’t sure where, when, and how to book flights. Crazy price fluctuations, canceled flights, and lack of staff have made the process even more difficult. That’s why offering flight-planning services can be another source of income, particularly if you charge ticketing and change fees.

This leads to our next point: fees for your services.

• Service Fees

With travel becoming more confusing and complex, travelers are searching for a travel agent who can manage their plans for them. Charging service fees or “planning fees” can help offset the extra time you spend on a customized itinerary. Just remember this isn’t the time to get greedy. You’re here to help travelers while you make money. Make sure your service fees are reasonable for the time you spend on creating an itinerary or putting together flight price comparisons. Also, it’s important not to set your fees too low or base them on what others are charging. Remember, what you bring to the table is different from the travel advisor down the street.

• Custom Itineraries

An adventurous couple wants to trek through Peru’s Andes Mountains to see Machu Picchu. A family would like to bike through the tulip festivals in Holland. An elderly couple dreams of birdwatching in the Amazon. These customized itineraries are excellent ways to earn a little extra commission. Going out of your way to organize a custom journey not only earns you more money but also helps build trust and loyalty among your clients.

• Travel Insurance

Travelers have learned to appreciate the safety net of travel insurance after the onslaught of a massive global pandemic. With canceled vacations everywhere, travelers lost millions of dollars. Travel insurance gives your clients (and yourself) the added peace of mind that their vacation is safe. Most travel insurance companies offer 20 percent or higher commission levels for any insurance purchased, making this another way to bolster your earnings.

The family looking to go on a self-guided tour of Italy wants to make sure they get a nice car for driving around. You help them find the perfect sedan – an automatic, not a manual! You can earn money from packaging car rentals with your clients’ vacations.

• Group Travel

Multigenerational families want to get away during the summer and escape the hustle of school activities and everyday life to spend time with each other. A group of couples would like to experience a romantic river cruise among the medieval cities of Europe. Friends are looking for a weekend getaway to the beach to deepen their tans as well as their friendships.

After reading about all the amazing things a travel agent can do, are you still wondering if becoming a travel agent is worth it?

• Corporate Travel and Incentive Travel

Corporate travel advisors provide a valuable service to businesses by helping them plan and book corporate travel. They work with businesses to understand their travel needs and preferences, and then help them find the best deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars. Corporate travel advisors also help businesses manage their travel budgets and keep track of their expenses.

Incentive travel is when a company offers a travel incentive for when the business meets certain goals. It could be a corporate sponsored meeting or a short trip to reward certain goals. Your travel agency can take advantage of these business retreats by booking the employees hotel rooms and everything they’ll need.

Is it worth it to become a travel agent?

Travel agents make a huge difference in the travel world. They make people happy – from booking unforgettable vacation packages to giving travelers peace of mind.

It feels good to make people happy, but you DO have to pay the rent and get groceries.

Asking how much travel agents get paid is a great question and one every potential business owner needs to ask.

Will this business venture be worth it for me?

The answer lies with you.

Are you ready to put in the time, energy, money, and forethought into “making it” as a travel agent?

The industry is lucrative, but you’ll need to consider if it’s worth it for YOU.

As the only online hub with everything a travel agent could ever need, Travel Industry Solutions is happy to help you find answers to all of your questions.

Are you a travel agent hoping to scale your agency like Sheila did? Join our membership program where you’ll have access to our travel agent training, live Q&A webinars with Sheila, templates for literally everything , and legal documents to protect you from lawsuits.

Don’t wait to begin your journey toward becoming a travel agent – take advantage of our free blog resources or contact us with questions.

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Travel Agent Resources

How much do travel agents make.

• X (Twitter)

By Courtney Eisen

January 9, 2024

Are you considering becoming a travel agent but want to know how much earning potential this career path has? Here is a rundown of how to determine how much you might be able to make as well as some averages that will give you insight into baseline earnings for travel agents.

Travel agents' earnings can vary widely, and the answer to " how much do travel agents make? " isn't straightforward. There are several factors that influence their income.

One significant factor is whether an agent is an employee or operates independently. Most leisure travel agents today are independent contractors who partner with a  host agency , which differs from the past when many were employees of travel agencies. This distinction is crucial because running a business introduces additional variables that affect income compared to those who work standard hours as employees.

Suggested Article: How to Select the Best Host Travel Agency For Your Business

The specialty area of a travel agent also plays a role in their earnings.  Corporate advisors  often have higher salaries (we will discuss this further) than those focusing on leisure or vacation travel. Within the leisure sector, niches such as adventure and luxury travel tend to yield higher incomes than family or Disney travel.

The amount of time invested and the level of industry experience also significantly impact potential earnings. Independent advisors who manage their own schedules may work various hours, and generally, the more time and experience they have, the more they earn.

In the modern era, there's no typical scenario for travel advisors; the field is filled with exceptions rather than rules, making it an exciting career choice. However, this diversity makes it challenging for external organizations to provide an accurate picture of travel agent salaries. For instance, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics doesn't include self-employed travel advisors in their data, even though self-employment is a common route in this profession.

To offer a clearer view of travel agent salaries, let's delve into some specific categories:

All Travel Agents : Including hosted, independent, and employee agents.

Independent Travel Agents : This group includes both hosted agents and those with their own accreditation who are self-employed.

Travel Agent Employees : These are advisors employed by a travel agency and receive a traditional W2 form.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, travel advisor salaries have increased by 26% over the last decade. However, their data, which reported an average  travel agent salary  of $46,400 in 2023, only considers full-time employees and excludes self-employed agents. In contrast, surveys that include both full-time and part-time self-employed agents show different results. For example,  experienced full-time travel advisors  reported earning an average annual income of $56,632 in a recent survey.

Self-Employed Travel Agents

Self-employed travel advisors run their businesses and fall into two main categories: hosted advisors affiliated with a  host agency  and  independently accredited travel agents  with their own credentials. The number of self-employed advisors has grown significantly, while traditional travel agency numbers have declined. Surveys indicate that  full-time hosted travel agents  with over three years of experience earned an average of $60,146, while their independently accredited counterparts earned $76,252. It should be noted that  LuxRally Travel agents  are trained to earn more than these average numbers. Our founder, David Eisen, earns seven figures just from his commissions.

These figures can be affected by factors like unreported income, tax write-offs, and the difference between a travel agent salary and company income in certain business structures.

Travel Agent Employees

For travel agent employees, salaries are more consistent and less dependent on commissions. They often enjoy benefits and a simpler tax situation compared to self-employed agents. According to a recent survey, full-time travel agent employees earned an average of $50,115.

Corporate Employees & Travel Managers

Corporate travel advisors typically earn more than leisure travel advisors. A report profiling corporate travel managers indicated an average travel agent salary of $128,439 for those in supervisory positions within companies.

LuxRally Travel is not a corporate host travel agency; we have no desire for our agents to handle the numerous low priced flights and hotel rooms. That being said, we do service corporations in their group travel needs, such as incentive trips and conferences. Training our agents to handle these aspects of travel services for corporations means higher earnings in less time. We explain group bookings thoroughly in our free travel agent training program.

Beyond salaries, many travel advisors find joy in their careers due to their passion for travel and the unique experiences the industry offers. Surveys show that a majority of advisors are satisfied with their income levels and the perks of the job, such as travel opportunities.

For those interested in becoming a travel advisor, there are choices to make regarding the type of travel to sell and whether to pursue a career as a self-employed advisor or an employee. Each path offers different benefits, from the freedom and flexibility of running your own business to the stability and structure of employment at a travel agency.

Your First Year is the Hardest

In your first year, you will learn sales tools, build your knowledge about destinations and travel vendors, and gain your first clients. Because you will be doing so much groundwork in year one, expect to earn less income. Additionally, it is essential to note that you don't make your commission right away; you get paid after your client travels, usually 30-60 days after travel (depending on how quickly the hotel pays your host agency). This delay in payment can cause earnings for bookings made in year one to fall into year two. Our highest-earning new agent made $73,012 in their first year (2023). Our founder, David Eisen , earned $60,000 in his first year as an agent and $250,000 in year two; He is now well into making seven figures consistently from his own bookings. We have built the training program to reduce the learning curve for others, are constantly pushing to maximize the earnings of our agents, and are continually refining our training and resources.

Suggested Article: How to Start a Travel Business

According to a survey done by Host Agency Reviews , the average annual income for a travel agent in the first year is $2,470 (part-time agents) and $2,662 (full-time agents). Our agents earn $28,904 on average in their first year, with no prior experience, and earn from a few thousand to over a million in commissions annually. If you are trying to determine how much you can make, know that it varies dramatically from person to person. Here are some tips to consider when thinking about how lucrative this career could be for you specifically.

Suggested Article: Travel Agent Commissions

After year one, if you have put in the effort and taken this career seriously, your name will have permeated your networks, and you will receive new clients regularly from referrals. Expect to spend 3-4 years maturing your networks.

You Get Out What You Put In

Earning six or seven figures as a travel agent requires dedication and hard work. Our founder makes upwards of one million dollars a year in commissions from his bookings. We have found a glitch in the money-making matrix and want to share it with others. However, this is different from a get-rich-quick scheme. You will need to both push yourself and be patient. To earn seven figures in this industry, you must put in the hours, develop knowledge of multiple travel products, and understand how to gain and retain clients. All of these skills are emphasized in our training process.

Suggested Article: How do Travel Agents Get Paid?

When you go above and beyond for your clients, you are more likely to get referrals, and word-of-mouth referrals can bring you some big clients. Many ultra-high-net-worth travelers only work with people who are referred by a friend or family member. If you live in America, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, you most certainly have high-spending people in your network. You might not know them personally yet and may not win them as clients right away, but if you commit to this industry and implement our best practices (we disagree with most travel agencies' best practices), you will likely get them. It may take years, but it's absolutely possible. That is the first thing to understand: if you play your cards right, you will eventually find your way to the right people. You may be separated by five degrees from a billionaire, and that billionaire may get referred to you by someone who makes $40,000 a year. We've seen it happen. Working your network and giving your clients positive things to talk about with their friends, family, and co-workers goes a long way in increasing your earnings.

Your Network Will Determine Your Earnings

Don't know anyone? Have a hard time being social? This might not be the right industry for you. Most of your clients will come from your personal networks, and if you know a lot of wealthy people, you will earn exponentially more. That doesn't mean you can't become an agent if most of your network is middle class; All-inclusive resorts and cruise lines pay high commissions. However, it does mean that knowing people with large amounts of disposable income will make it easier for you to become a high-earning agent. We started as an exotic car rally, so our networks largely came from the car community, which is comprised of everyone from billionaires to broke car photography kids. These connections, at all levels, allowed us to build a reputation and gain massive amounts of clients.

Suggested Article:  Exploring Travel Agent Niches

When considering how much you think you can earn, consider how easy it will be for you to sell travel to your networks. This is obvious but a major indicator of success. Know a bunch of teachers? Perfect. Be prepared to do volume in bookings for the summer season and national holidays. One of your teacher clients likely has wealthy people in their network and will refer them to you in year two or three. No matter where you start in your network, you can grow revenue year over year. Just expect a less wealthy network to take longer to mature into a six-figure income stream.

Get it While it's Hot

When dealing with your VIP clients, you need to be ready when they are ready. We mean it. If you need to step out of an IMAX screening of a movie you've been waiting to see to make a $5,000 commission, we expect you to leave and take the call. Waiting to service a client who is excited about booking a trip can cause you to lose the deal. We read travel agent forums frequently and know there are many agents who disagree with this stance. We are here for the money, and so are our agents. We may or may not be the host for you, but if you like money and understand that buying out a theatre costs less than $1,000, you'll enjoy working with us.

Making the Big Bucks

To be a top earner, prioritizing high-priced and high-commission items is critical. While all-inclusive resorts pay high commissions and are easy to sell, all of our agents still sell them; you want to make sure your network understands that you can handle ultra-luxury and large bookings with competency. It is critical to properly position yourself in the consideration set for these high-earning opportunities.

Suggested Article: How to Sell Yourself as a Travel Agent

While you may not have the clients for hyper-lucrative bookings off the bat, it is still important to let your network know that you are capable of competently handling such trips. If people think you only do all-inclusive resorts, they won't refer you to their wealthy friends. Consider the following. First-class and business-class international flights pay up to 25%, and they aren't cheap. Even at the lower end of $10,000 per seat, you could bring in a couple thousand dollars in commission just from booking the flights. Each ultra-high-net-worth client you have can bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars if they regularly do long stays in presidential suites. We sell one suite in Houston that ranges from $50,000 to $100,000+ a night. At 10% commission, an agent will make $5,000 per night that a client stays there. Group bookings are also incredibly lucrative, from destination weddings to incentive trips for sales teams; these contracts can make you large sums of money with minimal work. Our agents are able to easily snap up group contracts as we don't charge fees and negotiate aggressively. If you know business owners or decision-makers for group travel, this could be a huge opportunity to increase your earnings. We have seen a single group contract yield over $300,000 in commissions. Landing one group in your first year will have you earning multiples of the average agent. Getting a multi-year contract with a group will also provide income stability.

Your Training Matters

We train our agents to be fast, accurate, and service-oriented. Part of our travel agent training focuses on quick-quoting. Average travel agents can take days or weeks to plan a trip. We teach you how to plan, quote, and close deals in under 45 minutes (unless it is an ultra-high-touch booking like a group trip, which requires a bidding process that can take a week or more to complete). Our clients have a better experience because they get immediate gratification, and our agents earn more per hour because they use their time efficiently.

Suggest Article: The Ivy League of Travel Agent Schools

We don't train our agents to make lengthy itinerary PDFs to pitch clients, we ban charging fees, we push our agents to be hyper-responsive to clients through texting or whichever communication method the client prefers, and we always work on tools that increase productivity. These are just of the few ways we are different from other host agencies.

How Much Time Do You Have?

This is another important variable to consider. The more time you have to focus on this job, the faster your earnings will increase. If you have a solid lead message at noon but cannot get back to them until the evening, you may have a harder time closing the deal. They might be busy in the evening, which will delay a meaningful conversation. While the two of you play phone tag, the lead might decide to book elsewhere. Being available is critical to closing leads and satisfying clients.

Suggested Article: Why You Should Be a 24 Hour Travel Agent

A Travel Agent Side Hustle Can Be Worth It If...

Circling back to our opening remarks, there is no straightforward answer to the question: how much do travel agents make? However, if you know luxury travelers or frequent travelers, people who make decisions on group bookings, or have a diverse network of people taking a variety of trips, becoming a travel agent can be a lucrative side hustle and eventually become your full-time career. If you have a large network of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, you can make six figures from each VIP client.

Suggested Article: Is Being a Travel Agent a Good Side Hustle?

The largest single leisure booking we've seen made was for $600,000, and the agent made a little over $60,000 in commission. This was one trip, one booking, and took a few hours to oversee. Who you know plays a big role in how much you can make as a travel agent. This should not discourage you if you don't know any high-net-worth people, but it is an insight that you should start finding ways to get your name in front of high-net-worth people if you want to maximize earnings from your travel business.

Conclusion: Earn More by Working With Us

This article has touched on some high-level insights into how to think about your potential earnings. Our training, however, goes much deeper. We are, unapologetically, the best host travel agency for highly motivated new travel agents. We have free comprehensive travel agent training with full travel agent certification and don't make money until you do so. Rest assured, we are very motivated to help you close deals. 

More Resources

Why You Should Be a 24 Hour Travel Agent

How Do Travel Agents Make Money?

How to Start a Travel Agency From Home

The Journal

Travel Advisor Resources

The Outlook of a Travel Agent Career: Fora’s Full Guide

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora Travel

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/travel-agent-career

A love for all-things travel, solid communication skills, self-starting ambition — these are the makings of a great travel agent career. If you’re considering this path, you’re in the right place. We have details on all the education and experience requirements, daily tasks, salary info and more — all with the aim of helping you decide if a career as a travel agent is right for you. 

Don’t take it exclusively from us, we polled a few of our top earners to see why they love being a travel advisor. 

Fora Advisor Diana Morales said, “I love the flexibility that it gives me. I love that I get to be in charge of my own schedule and can work from anywhere in the world. It is truly such a gift to have both of those things.”

If you’re ready to try your hand at a travel advisor career, apply to become a Fora travel advisor . We’ll set you up with everything you need to start and run a successful travel advisor business, from training to tech, community, partnerships and more. 

• South America ,
• Luxury Travel

First, what do travel agents — or travel advisors — do?

You can check out our full guide to what travel agents do if you’re completely new to travel planning, but here’s the short version. 

Travel agents — or travel advisors (the terms are interchangeable) — plan and book trips for their clients. These trips can be for leisure, business (or both).

How do travel agents make money? Who pays them?

Travel agents earn money by selling and booking trips. As a travel advisor, you’ll build a network of clients and earn money through the trips you book for them. 

There are two common ways that advisors earn money: from commissions and planning fees. 

Commissions

Many people don’t know this, but commissions are already baked into the prices of most hotels and many travel experiences already. When travel advisors book accommodations, cruises, rental cars, etc,  the travel partner pays a small percentage of the sale. Commissions range depending on the travel partner, but can typically range from 10-15% (and are sometimes as high as 25%). To earn commission, you’ll also need access to an IATA number to cover the legal framework. When you become a Fora Advisor, you’ll get access to our IATA number (and we also cover all of the commission tracking and payments for you). 

“Because Fora handles commission tracking & payments, I can focus my energy on other parts of my business, " noted Fora Advisor Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin . “Starting a new business is stressful, so Fora saves me time and takes a significant burden off my to do list by handling commissions.”

• Boutique Travel ,
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• Food & Wine ,

Planning fees

In addition to commissions, travel advisors can also earn money through planning fees. Many travel advisors also charge their clients to build more complicated itineraries, make group bookings (find out why group bookings are great ) or provide other related services. 

Diana explained, “Fora just makes everything easier for advisors, but specially commission payments. We don't have to go chasing suppliers for our commission because Fora takes care of that. They make sure that we are paid fairly and on a reasonable time frame.”

(If you’re wondering how much travel agents make or how travel agents get paid , see our guides.)

Related Article: Travel Agent Commissions

Do travel agents work for themselves?

Fora Advisor Nadiah Ford offered an excellent point, noting, “I recently had a ski accident and broke my wrist. Unlike my corporate job, I was able to navigate and continue to work on my own terms and schedule.”

• Family Travel ,
• Adventure ,
• New Zealand

Generally, yes. Most people who work in the field are independent travel agents who belong to a travel agent host agency (such as Fora). Through this relationship, advisors are provided a variety of benefits. At Fora, our advisors get access to our preferred partnerships — which allow advisors to unlock VIP perks for their clients — as well as advanced booking software like our travel advisor booking platform and the ability to operate under the agency’s licenses, among other benefits depending on the agency.

Fora Advisor Diana Morales shared her take here, as well. “My favorite part about being my own boss is that I get to prioritize time with my family and I get to be available if I am needed.” She added, “I am about to become a mom for the first time, and I am so glad that I get to take a maternity leave and make it as long as I need to make it instead of thinking that I need to be back in an office when my baby is six weeks old. That alone is a huge blessing to me already, but there have been many other times when I have been able to put work aside for the moment in order to dedicate time to my family.”

What does the career path of a travel agent look like? (Hint: it can depend on their niche)

Not every travel agent career looks the same. Flexibility and variety are built into the role, and most travel advisors approach their craft differently — especially depending on their niche (learn about different travel agent jobs ). 

For example, luxury travel advisors book elite hotels in premier destinations, like the top hotels in Downtown NYC or the ritziest hotels in Tokyo . They may devote much of their time to researching bespoke experiences for their discerning clientele. Disney travel agents know all the ins and outs of the brand, and typically focus on booking family vacations to Disney properties around the world (learn how to become a Disney travel agent ). Similarly, cruise travel agents may exclusively book ocean-bound voyages for their clients while staying up to date on the latest offerings from brands like Virgin Voyages and Royal Caribbean . 

What travel agent niches exist?

The list of potential niches is long, and at a host agency like Fora, you’re free to carve out any specialization you choose. 

It’s also worth noting that a career as a travel advisor is flexible. You can work part-time or full-time (or, start part-time and work your way to full-time as you build your book of business). If you want to work part-time, make sure you’re choosing an agency that doesn’t have minimum bookings or sales quotas. (At Fora, we have neither). Becoming a travel advisor is a great opportunity to build a career on your own terms. 

Alexandra said, “As a Fora advisor, I love that I have the flexibility to take my business with me anywhere in the world. Tech focused training and tools enable access on the go so I can meet my clients needs from anywhere.”

How do I start a travel agent career?

On one hand, learning how to become a travel agent isn’t overly complicated, at least not compared to some jobs in the travel industry (like pilots or cruise directors). On the other hand, starting a travel agent career does take patience and dedication.

Join a host agency 

As an independent travel advisor, you’ll likely want to partner with a travel agent host agency (like Fora) to launch your travel advisor business. A host agency gives you the support and resources to build and scale your business.  

Notably, your host agency will give you access to an IATA number , a system that is used to verify that a travel agency or agent is legitimate. It’s the thing that allows you, the travel agent, to earn money for booking hotels and other reservations.

The best host agencies also provide a multitude of other tools for you to run your business. Fora is a modern host agency that gives you everything you need to kickstart your career in travel, including training, community and technology. 

Participate in travel agent training to learn the skills & knowledge you need to be successful

It’s hard to sell travel without knowing the industry: the fundamentals of how it all works, the latest intel on destinations and properties around the world, how bookings and commissions work, best practices for client relationships…  There’s a lot to know. 

We offer a comprehensive travel agent certification program at Fora that will arm you with the foundational knowledge you need to get started. The travel agent classes offered by Fora are all online and you can take them at your own pace. We offer both live and recorded trainings. 

Fora’s training covers everything from the basics (how to book a hotel) to more advanced concepts, like planning multi-leg trips in destinations with destination management companies . 

Diana explained, “before joining Fora, I was with another host agency and it was not going well. I joined the travel industry without any prior knowledge. I was a brand new agent who needed a lot of support and a lot of training, but at my old host agency, I was not getting that.

“When I found Fora, it was their emphasis on training that drew me to them. I knew that I wanted to be at a place where I could work through my questions and have answers for them, she adds. “I was not disappointed. Not only were their trainings short, concise, and easy to understand, but often there were Q&A sessions that I could join if I had a question.

“Once I felt like I actually knew what I was doing, I pushed myself to get out of my comfort zone and start talking to people about my business.”

Related article: How to Be a Successful Travel Advisor: Insider Tips from the Pros  

Start booking

Once you’ve got a grasp on how to run your business, you’ll want to start booking (and earning!). We’re firm believers that people learn best by doing, and so our training program is complemented by opportunities to start booking as you’re learning about the role. We offer Booking Bootcamps, live sessions where Fora HQ team members will be available to discuss and brainstorm how you can move from learning about the travel industry to locking in your first bookings.

We also offer tips and tricks on how to build your book of business because we understand that garnering clients can be one of the toughest parts of the job. We do recommend starting booking with friends and family (it’s much easier to build confidence by booking for your sister-in-law, for example, than it is to arrange a trip for a stranger from the internet). When you’re ready, we have plenty of other resources to help you grow your clientele. At Fora, we teach travel advisors how to build up a client base early in our training program (you can also check out our guide to how travel agents get clients ).

For the bookings themselves, Fora Advisors use tools like our in-house booking platform that dramatically reduces the amount of time it takes to place hotel reservations. They can also use the Vault , a secure system that stores client information, and Forum , our community app that connects advisors so they can easily share tips and intel.

What does a typical day look like as a travel advisor?

One of the best parts about being an independent travel agent is that you’ll be able to set up your work schedule in a way that works best for you. Every agent has a different approach. Still, there are common elements. Successful travel advisors tend to split their time between marketing, staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and of course, the actual travel planning itself.

Marketing is an integral part of any successful travel agent’s career. Without putting yourself out there, your potential clients won’t know that they can book with you, after all. Marketing can take many forms, but it doesn’t have to be overly complicated to run a successful business (don’t worry if you don’t feel like you’re a marketing guru). 

We recommend starting with friends and family to start the foundation of your clientele — and this means that “marketing” can be as easy as an email blast with your family bcc:ed, a message to your fave group chat or a post on social media. There are many successful travel agents who run their entire book of business based on their personal network. 

If and when you’re ready for more advanced marketing tactics, your time might be spent building and maintaining a website, cultivating a social media presence, running email campaigns and more. It’s not unusual for new and experienced travel agents alike to invest a solid chunk of their time marketing themselves. 

How Fora helps you market yourself

At Fora, we’re here to make marketing seamless and easy for you. We provide all Fora Advisors with a customizable profile page on our website, as well as unlimited content creation opportunities on our website to create travel guides that peacock your knowledge. We also have social media and email templates to make sharing the latest travel trends a breeze. Plus, we offer many classes (both live and recorded)  dedicated to teaching Fora Advisors how to market themselves. 

Diana noted, “The marketing assets are another area where Fora makes life easier for travel advisors. I love that we get a variety of content. This allows us advisors to pick and choose what we want to post about and it means that we are not all posting about the exact same thing.”

Researching industry topics

Staying in-the-know is critical to maintaining a competitive edge. Your clients rely on you for the latest intel on what’s trending in travel, so you’ll want to invest time in ongoing education about what’s happening in the industry. 

The exact amount of time spent researching new openings, attractions and so on will vary by travel advisor and niche. Disney travel agents, for example, need to stay on top of the brand’s constant stream of new hotels, rides and experiences so they’re constantly looking for inspiration from  Disney’s newsletters and press releases. 

You’ll also spend a good amount of time researching specifically for clients’ trips. This will likely include finding and comparing accommodations, recommendations and so on to provide a tailored report for clients. 

How Fora helps you stay up to date with travel 

We’ve got plenty of offerings to make it easy for you to keep up-to-date with the latest industry trends. We have weekly training sessions with debriefs on destinations around the world, as well as partner spotlights. You’ll also have access to Forum , our all-in-one community app where you can search and filter through posts from fellow Fora Advisors and industry insiders. 

Travel planning with clients

Of course, your role ultimately comes down to planning and booking travel with clients. Every booking is a little different: sometimes it will be a one-night staycation with a straightforward hotel booking, and other times, it will be a more complex itinerary like a multi-generational trip or honeymoon to a far-flung destination. Many clients will provide a loose idea of what they want out of their trip, and it’s up to their agent to shape it into an unforgettable experience. 

Your role doesn’t stop at the booking itself… You will communicate with the partner to make sure everything is squared away for the trip, and also check on your clients during and after their trip to ensure everything is going well.

Start your travel agent career: become a Fora Advisor

If you have a passion for travel and an entrepreneurial mindset, a travel agent career could be a great fit for you. As your own boss, you’ll be able to dictate your schedule, choose a niche (if you want to) and perhaps above all, help your clients build amazing memories with the trip plans you create.

When you’re ready to get started, apply to become a Fora Advisor today .

Travel agent career FAQs

Below, we’ve collected answers to a few common questions about travel agent careers.

Will a travel agent career take you around the world? 

A travel agent career certainly can take you around the world, especially as you become more successful and partners work with you more. It’s certainly a job where you can travel – as long as you have a Wi-Fi connection, you can work from wherever you want. 

Fora Advisor Beth Kaczka loves the flexibility that a remote role as a travel advisor offers her. 

“Picture me sitting ​at a breakfast table under an umbrella, overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea, with the scent of olive trees and Mediterranean herbs lingering in the air​. It's the kind of setting that ignites the soul and fuels the imagination. Here I am, ​mobile phone in hand, soaking in the warmth of the Greek sun while orchestrating a luxurious ​Switzerland escape for a discerning client,” Beth said. “As I hit send on the final details, I can't help but marvel at the wonders of modern technology, which allow me to seamlessly blend work and wanderlust in such an idyllic setting. It's moments like these that remind me why I fell in love with being a travel advisor in the first place — the ability to turn dreams into reality, no matter where in the world I may find myself.”

Is a travel agent career stressful? Is it fun?

Like any profession, it can be both stressful and fun. Yes, it can be a little stressful to get your travel agent career off the ground or when a situation goes wrong when your client is abroad. (Learn more about how to deal with a travel snafu ). At the same time, travel planning is, well, fun. For one, you get to research exciting destinations, hotels and attractions for a living. Second, you’re selling people happiness and excitement: vacations are often among people’s fondest memories. Both aspects can be extremely rewarding, especially for those with an insatiable wanderlust. 

Do you have to make travel planning a career? Can you plan travel part-time instead?

Some host agencies may require full-time commitments, minimum sales quotas or set schedules. Fora does not: you can pursue a full-blown travel agent career or a part-time endeavor. Or, you can also start part-time and work your way up to full-time as you build your business. It’s whatever works best for you. 

Ultimately, flexibility is one of the best reasons to become a Fora Advisor (and also makes travel planning one of the best remote jobs for moms and dads, if you’re interested).

How many hours do successful travel agents work?

It depends on how you define success! You can have a fulfilling career both part-time and full-time — the choice is yours. 

In terms of revenue earned, it is a commission-based business, so keep in mind that how much you book will also dictate how much you earn. Learn more about how travel agents get paid . 

How quickly can I start my travel agent career? 

Part of the beauty of a career as a travel advisor is that there are many ways to dive right in. As a Fora Advisor, you’ll have access to training as well as resources to make bookings from day one. When you’re ready to get started, apply to join today . 

For more in-depth intel, check out our guide to how long it takes to become a travel agent .

How lucrative is a career as a travel agent?

How much you earn is dependent on how much you book. Learn more about how Fora Advisors get paid . 

It’s worth noting that some domains, like luxury or corporate travel agent niches, tend to be among higher-earning travel agent jobs . As you might expect, these niches tend to have demanding clients (who are willing to pay more for the white glove service).

What kind of overhead do travel agents have? Are there monthly fees? How about licensing fees?

A travel advisor’s overhead — the cost they pay to maintain their business — varies. Every advisor sets up their business a bit differently, and you may decide to make different investments than other agents (for example, you might opt for a coworking space, or you might decide you don’t need one). 

At Fora, our membership cost covers everything you need to run your travel advisor business. 

Fora’s membership currently costs $299 annually or $49 monthly. With it, Fora Advisors receive access to our expansive network of partners , our in-house booking platform (which dramatically cuts down on booking times), expert-led training, professional marketing tools and more. 

To learn more, read our guide to how much it costs to become a travel agent , which compares joining Fora to the industry at large.

Overall: is a travel agent career worth it?

We think so! If you love travel, working with people and researching awesome destinations and sights, a career as a travel agent can be a great fit for you. If you’re on the fence, we have a guide that presents the pros and cons of being a travel agent .

More travel agent resources

Check out the travel advisor resources below for more guides:

How to Become a Luxury Travel Agent: the 2023 Guide  

How Much Do Travel Agents Make Per Booking?  

How to Market Your Travel Business Like a Pro: Tips from the Experts  

5 Types of Bookings You Can Make as a Fora Advisor (That Aren’t Hotels!)  

How to Become a Cruise Travel Agent (It's Easier Than You Think)  

What Does It Take to Become a Travel Agent?

Debunking 3 Myths about Becoming a Travel Advisor

Book with Fora

Tell us more about yourself to get matched with a Fora Advisor and start planning your dream trip today.

Travel agent salary

The average salary for a travel agent in the United States is around $31,222 per year.

Travel agents earn an average yearly salary of $ 31,222 . Wages typically start from $ 20,138 and go up to $ 48,405 .

50 % below national average ● Updated in 2023

Travel agent earnings by seniority

Top-level travel agent earnings begin at :.

$ 23.27 per hour

$ 48,405 per year

Senior-level travel agent earnings begin at :

$ 18.91 per hour

$ 39,326 per year

Mid-level travel agent earnings begin at :

$ 15.01 per hour

$ 31,222 per year

Junior-level travel agent earnings begin at :

$ 11.92 per hour

$ 24,787 per year

Starting level travel agent earnings begin at :

$ 9.68 per hour

$ 20,138 per year

Approximate values based on highest and lowest earning segments.

Travel agent salary by state

How do travel agent salaries compare to similar careers.

Travel agents earn about the same as related careers in the United States. On average, they make less than highway maintenance workers but more than postal service clerks.

Source: CareerExplorer (Aggregated)

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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 some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ 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

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60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 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, vacation rentals 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 $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

How to Become a Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

A re you great at finding reasonably priced flights and hotel rooms? Does making itineraries and solving booking issues come naturally to you? If your answer is yes, you might want to consider becoming a travel agent. And if you're the designated "trip-planning friend," you're already halfway there.

You might think the the profession is outdated, but that's not what the data shows: According to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), 50 percent of travelers are more likely to use a travel agent now than they were in the past. Not only are travel agents needed, but the career's earning potential can be impressive, depending on the type of agent you choose to be. Use this guide to learn how to become a travel agent and kickstart your journey into a unique career.

RELATED: 26 Best Trip-Planning Hacks Straight From Travel Agents .

What do travel agents do?

A travel agent's job is to ensure their clients have the best travel arrangements. Using their expertise, they offer advice and essential details about your trip, make your reservations, book flights and hotels, and manage your travel plans overall. Any hiccups regarding your accommodations are handled by them, and they are the best at finding money-saving deals. Travel agents prioritize your needs, like your vacation schedule and budget.

Their goal is to provide peace of mind throughout the trip-planning process so you can get the most out of your vacation.

What credentials do you need to be a travel agent?

You don't necessarily need a degree to become a travel agent, but getting some training within the field could be in your best interest. This not only makes you an attractive candidate to employers and agencies who may require a form of certification , but also helps you appear more qualified, which can help further your career in the long run.

Even though there might not be a degree in "travel agency" per se, you can opt for a related program like business, economics, or hospitality instead.

What do you need to become a travel agent?

There are different ways to become a travel agent, but anyone hoping to break into the field should definitely keep the following three points in mind.

Decide what kind of travel agent you want to be.

Having a specific focus on the kind of travel experience you want to provide allows you to build the knowledge and resources to best help those specific clients. Suppose you want to work in corporate travel: Building your skills according to your niche clientele and field will help you sharpen the skills you need to develop your expertise.

Learn about the travel industry and its trends.

The travel agency field is constantly shifting, so it's important to stay up-to-date on industry changes and trends to know what you should be offering clients. People's preferences are ever-changing, so knowing what's hot and what's not is crucial. Spend time learning which places are popular and unpopular based on the season, or which restaurants are staple visits. This shows a solid and up-to-date understanding your clients will appreciate.

Build your communication and interpersonal skills.

A large part of being a travel agent is advising your clients and earning their trust, which doesn't happen overnight. Presenting yourself as knowledgeable and approachable can encourage them to trust your judgment and recommendations. This is especially important if you're not working with a travel agency, because you'll have to rely more on your brand and relationships instead of leaning on a company's reputation.

Maintaining a healthy balance of communication between you and your clients is also essential, which means scheduling phone calls, in-person meetings, keeping up with emails, and any other form of communication your client prefers.

RELATED: 9 Ways Flying First Class Can Actually Save You Money, Travel Experts Say .

Get certified if you can

Getting a certificate can be pricey and cost hundreds of dollars . So, if this option is not feasible for you, that's understandable. However, while certification isn't a requirement to become a travel agent, it can certainly help you throughout your career. Here are a few certificate programs to consider.

Certified Travel Counselor

This Travel Institute certificate requires at least five years of experience and a Certified Travel Association certification. This course focuses on marketing and building consumer relationships. CTC costs $550 to complete the course and $600 for the CTC Fast Track.

Certified Travel Industry Executive

CTIE is also backed by the Travel Institute and requires at least five years of field experience. This $550 program includes courses on travel business, marketing management, bookkeeping, and travel law.

ASTA Verified Travel Advisor

This certificate is given by the American Society of Travel Advisors and teaches applicants about the legalities of travel and how to solidify relationships with consumers. The nine-course program also focuses on ethical travel advising, agency law, and travel agency compliance.

For ASTA members, the course is $399, and for nonmember independent contractors, it's $598. Travel Advisor nonmembers pay the steepest price, which is $729, and $179 for recertification.

RELATED: 7 Hacks for Flying With Just a Carry-On—No Matter How Long Your Trip Is .

How much do travel agents make?

According to Indeed , travel agents make an average of $53,924, and salaries can range between $30,131 and $96,506, depending on where you live. But other factors can affect an agent's earning potential, like working independently instead of for a travel agency.

A travel agent's income also depends on their area of travel. The Hotel Agency Review 2023 report revealed that corporate and luxury travel agents earn much more than agents who focus on Disney and cruise trips.

Your experience level can also impact your earning potential, as agents who have worked in the field longer are typically viewed as more qualified.

RELATED:  The 7 Best Cruises to Book If You're Over 60 .

Do travel agents get discounts on flights?

Being a travel agent doesn't automatically mean you get tons of discounts and deals, but they do have access to perks that can help make planning trips easier and less expensive. Travel agents have the inside scoop on reduced rates because of their relationships with hotels and airlines. As a result, agents share these negotiated prices with their clients to help them save. Agents can, of course, also benefit from this insider knowledge and save money on their own trips.

Thanks to their agents, clients can enjoy luxury accommodations at high-end hotels like Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS&Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and Mandarin Oriental Fan Club, to name a few. These perks range from spa services and later checkout times to room upgrades and complimentary breakfast.

How do you make money as a travel agent?

There are several ways a travel agent can make money in their field beyond selling travel packages or working for an agency.

Travel agents can charge a service fee, which is a base pay clients cover along with any other charges.

Travel agents can also make commissions from their contracts with hotels, tour/excursion companies, cruises, car rental services, and airlines. Add-ons like insurance can also help boost an agent's income, if their client wants it.

Booking group tours can increase a travel agent's earnings because their commission is based on how much their clients purchase, so more people means more accommodations. For example, booking travel for destination weddings or family reunions is an excellent way to book multiple hotel rooms. It's such a lucrative strategy that some agents make group booking their niche, because managing just a few a year can bring in a substantial profit.

RELATED: The Best Day to Book Flights for Your Next Getaway .

Being a travel agent comes with many perks, but ultimately, becoming one takes a lot of dedicated effort. Taking the time to learn about the travel industry is a great way to expand your tourism knowledge and consumer communication techniques. Refining your skills and becoming certified is one of the best ways to attract and retain clients.

So, if becoming a travel agent sounds like the career for you, join this community of globetrotters and combine your love for adventure, great deals, and helping others plan impressive getaways.

In the meantime, you can sign up for our newsletter to enjoy similar career-building content, as well as the latest in wellness, entertainment, and travel.

15 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Became a Travel Agent

It’s not all infinity pools and après-ski drinks.

Despite what you see on Instagram, being a travel agent isn’t always glamorous. As amazing as it is to jet around the world, you also have to keep in contact with clients 24/7/365—no matter what time zone you’re in. And while technically anyone can work in this field, only those who are detail-oriented and meticulously organized will excel. So we talked to former travel agent Katelyn O’Shaughnessy and current agent Erina Pindar to find out what their jobs are actually like.

You’ll make a decent living, and you’ll get to travel the world like a rock star.

You get paid on commission, meaning you earn money based on the trips you book for your clients..

The bulk of your salary will come from commission, so first and foremost, you’re a salesperson. When you’re an in-house agent with a travel agency (on-staff positions at agencies are increasingly rare, btw, but they’re still in demand), you typically have a base salary and a commission split. This can vary from agency to agency and also depends on your level of experience. For example, let’s say you have an 80-20 commission split. That means if you get paid 10 percent commission on booking a hotel, 80 percent of that commission goes to your agency, while you keep 20 percent. If you’ve rounded up enough clients, you can become an independent agent, which means you work for yourself but remain affiliated with a host agency. As an independent agent, you lose the base salary but get to keep your commission.

If you work as an independent agent, you need your own insurance.

Let’s say you make a mistake on a client’s itinerary, causing them to miss their first-class flight that costs $6,000 a seat. If you did something wrong, you’re liable. “There are hundreds of things that can go wrong, and they will,” warns O’Shaughnessy. You definitely need errors and omissions insurance, which can be expensive, but if you accidentally screw something up, you don’t have to pay out of pocket for the cost of the mistake.

“Travel agents” and “travel advisers” are relatively synonymous, although advisers tend to use a more holistic planning strategy.

While in the past, travel agents mainly assisted in booking accommodations, a travel adviser helps provide a client with a broader picture of their trip. “If someone says, ‘I want to go to Cabo and I want to do all these adventurous things,’ we may say, ‘Okay, great, you can go to Cabo, but you may not want to stay on the strip. You may want to consider the new Four Seasons that just opened on the cape because there’s a lot more adventure on that side of the destination,’” explains Pindar.

You don’t need any special training to get started.

Unlike being a real estate agent, where you have to pass a series of tests to prove you know your stuff. “When I started working as a travel agent right out of college, I didn’t know anything,” insists O’Shaughnessy. “I’d barely even traveled out of Portland, where I grew up. I got the job after a series of persistent emails and a good first interview. It’s definitely useful to know things like basic history and geography but there are no real required skills.”

Travel agents tend to come from a variety of backgrounds—you can switch careers at any point in your life and become a travel agent with a pretty low barrier to entry. But according to Pindar, it does takes a specific personality to be a quality agent. “One thing that all our agents have in common is they’re great salespeople, because at the end of the day, this is a sales job,” she says.

Being type A is also a plus: You need to be a meticulous planner, be an excellent researcher, and possess extreme attention to detail. “It’s easy to put someone in a beautiful room,” says Pindar, “but if you remember that they’re going there for their anniversary and you’re somehow able to get a picture from their wedding to be put in the room and their favorite champagne that they popped on their wedding day, those little things make a difference.”

Developing a niche is essential.

No one can have an encyclopedic knowledge of the whole world, so the most successful travel agents choose a specialty. You might focus on cruises or African safaris or trips to Italy. “[Before I started my company,] I specialized in honeymoons and travel for destination weddings, which I narrowed down to Tahiti, Fiji, Mexico, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. I knew every hotel, every restaurant, and every excursion in those areas that related to a romantic vacation,” says O’Shaughnessy.

Traveling is a regular part of the job, but it’s not a vacation.

Every few months, travel agents go on “fam trips,” short for “familiarization,” and they sound both a h-ma-zing and tiring, according to O’Shaughnessy:

“You try everything you’d want to sell to your clients: You sleep in the hotels, eat the food, get the massages. Sometimes you can even bring a guest. The first few times, it feels ridiculously luxurious, and it is. But you’re there to work. You have to be up at 7 a.m. the next day and remain professional while visiting as many as 10 hotel sites in a day, inspecting each of the rooms, and taking notes on everything. You can’t sleep in and relax on the beach like you would on a real vacation.”

Pindar echoes the same sentiment: “Ninety percent of the time when we do travel, it’s generally for educational purposes.” Travel advisers need to know a destination inside and out, as they often make recommendations based on experience. While traveling, the days can get long. You’re expected to attend breakfast meetings, go out all day, and by the time dinner’s over, you need to catch up on emails. “Even though people think you’re traveling and it’s glamorous, it’s a lot of work,” says Pindar.

On that note, you *will* stop taking normal vacations.

Some travel agents do still travel for fun, but most will do at least one hotel site inspection or other work-related task while they’re there. The industry is very small, so when hotel reps see on your Instagram that you’re in London, they’ll insist you come say hello, see the latest remodel, and try the new menu at the hotel restaurant— sometimes even for a discount! “It’s a double-edged sword: You’ll have friends and free swag everywhere you go, but you can never really travel without thinking of work,” says O’Shaughnessy. Regardless of connections, you’re not traveling for free. With discounts come expectations, aka receiving business from your clients in return. Additionally, you’ll have to front your own travel fees just like everyone else, according to Pindar.

And by the way, holidays kinda suck.

The “365” part of 24/7/365 is not a joke. Holidays are the most stressful time of the year for travel agents, since so many of your clients will be traveling.

Hotel reps will become your best friends.

When you’re working in an agency, hotel reps will come in every single day to give presentations about why you should recommend their hotel to your clients. Once you have a niche, you’ll see the same travel reps at your regular fam trips and you’ll develop a relationship with them from regularly sending them business. “Those relationships are super important,” says O’Shaughnessy, “because when you need to call in a favor, like upgrading someone’s room, you have someone to hook it up.”

Learning to book travel is like learning a new language.

Every travel agency has access to a program called Global Distribution System, which lists options for airfare, hotels, car rentals, and so on. “You’d think it would have a clean interface like Expedia, but no, it’s more like Microsoft circa 1990. You have to know very specific codes to do anything: For example, to look for flight options, you have to type this symbol ‡ called the Cross of Lorraine, followed by your request. It’s almost like learning how to code,” says O’Shaughnessy. So, yeah, it can take a while to get familiar with it.

Your clients will act like you’re their personal butler.

You *will* get the occasional 2 a.m. call from a client in Europe asking for details that you definitely included on their itinerary. “I once had a client call me from a cruise ship—which is really hard to do!—to tell me that she couldn’t get the television to work in her room and could I call someone to fix it?” remembers O’Shaughnessy. It can definitely veer into the realm of ridiculous, but you have to remember that people can get very anxious about travel—your job is to be available and make sure they’re taken care of. That’s part of the added value of booking your trip with a travel agent.

But the thing is…you are responsible for their time.

“If you buy something, you can return it and get your money back,” says Pindar, “but if you go on vacation and spend $30,000 on a weeklong trip and it’s terrible, you will never get that time back.” There’s a lot of pressure involved in making sure clients are having the vacation they envisioned, which means being there for them every step of the way, even if they’re in a different time zone. “You have to act like [your client’s] handler in a way,” says Pindar.

Clients will hire you again and again for your thoughtfulness.

Travel is a very personal thing, and the best travel agents have empathy for what the individual traveler wants to get out of the trip, whether it’s beautiful memories with their family or an adventure or a deeper understanding of the local culture. “Since I worked primarily with honeymoons and weddings, I’d regularly use my hotel connections to make sure my clients had a bottle of wine waiting for them in their room or a couples photo next to the bed,” says O’Shaughnessy. “Those personal touches are the reason people continue to use travel agents rather than booking for themselves online.”

And lastly, travel agents are not a dying breed .

“Every time I tell someone I’m a travel agent, they’re like, ‘Wait, travel agents still exist?’ The answer: Yes, and we still account for one-third of all travel booked in the United States,” insists O’Shaughnessy. It’s still a profitable industry in the United States and there’s no reason to believe the industry is dying off.

Katelyn O’Shaughnessy was a luxury travel agent before founding travel agent platform TripScope and, later, medical tourism company Doctours . Erina Pindar has worked as a travel agent for 13 years, and she’s currently the managing director of SmartFlyer , a travel agency based in the U.S. and Australia.

Hannah Malach is an assistant producer at Hearst Magazines, where she covers entertainment news, the royals, and more for brands including Cosmopolitan , Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar . She’s previously written for Billboard , WWD , and The Hollywood Reporter . If she’s not catching up on the latest season of RuPaul’s Drag Race , you can probably find her curled up with a good book or exploring one of New York City’s many museums.

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Let’s Talk Money: How Much Do Travel Agents Make?

If you love traveling and connecting customers with unforgettable experiences, a career in the travel industry might be right for you. One of the most common questions prospective travel agents ask is, “How much do travel agents make?” While it is a common question, many variables determine how much an agent makes. Let’s break it down. 

Do more with Andavo Travel

With our program, you can become a full-time independent Travel Advisor, allowing you to shape your vision, make your own decisions, set your goals, and make more money. Throughout building your business, we’ll give you the essential support, resources, and tools you’ll need to expand your travel business successfully.

How much do travel agents make?

The average salary of travel agents can vary widely depending on specific variables, such as if the employee is full-time or part-time and the company they work for. Many travel agents have the potential to earn a considerable salary, even passing six figures annually. Agents specializing in specific areas of travel or providing unique services earn the most.

Many Andavo Agents are luxury advisors who create high-end experiences under their own company name. With Andavo, you’ll make more money and retain ownership of your clientele list. How much you make depends on how much you put in.

Do travel agents get paid a salary or commission?

Travel agents can earn money from commission, salary, and other incentives. In most cases, travel agents earn money from commissions. Though commissions can be complicated and vary based on the company, they generally operate similarly. Once an agent books a hotel, flight, or trip for their client, they earn a certain percentage of that travel booking. 

What is the average commission rate for travel agents?

While commissions vary per company, the average travel agent commission is 5-10%. At Andavo, we operate on an 80-20 commission split, which means you can earn a sizable chunk of change from each trip you book. By paying a higher commission, we’re also investing in the success of your travel company. Our company tracks all commissions on your behalf, and your data is not sent to a third party for tracking. 

Specific Ways Travel Agents Earn Money

Do travel agents get paid on flights.

The airline industry doesn’t usually offer commissions for flights. However, this can vary depending on the booking platform and airline. Agents usually strive to book business-class seats and above. This provides a better experience for the traveler and earns the travel agent more money. 

Do travel agents charge fees?

Fee structures are another policy that can vary based on the travel agency. While some agents charge a high percentage of the vacation or a fee, you’ll find that many agents do not charge a fee for their clients. Instead of charging clients a fee, Andavo earns commissions and accommodations for their clients, which is how we pay agents. 

How can travel agents make more money?

The best way to make more money is to boost your online visibility. Promote your travel agency and focus on marketing. If more people know you and trust your expertise, they will likely book travel through you. To earn more money, take the time to find your niche, utilize social media, and build an email marketing list. Become a travel advisor with Andavo, and we’ll give you the tools to succeed. 

Breaking it Down: What’s in A Travel Agent’s Salary?

So, you have a passion for travel. You love helping friends and family plan their vacations with cool tips and recs, and you’re thinking about turning this passion into a career (or side hustle). But you may be wondering how to monetize, and asking “where does a travel agent salary come from?”

We’re breaking it all down below. Plus, you might be surprised to learn that earning a salary as a travel agent is seamless, especially with the support and tech tools of a modern travel agency like Fora.

(Just getting started? Learn how to become a travel agent .)

The 2 most common ways to earn a travel agent salary

The vast majority of revenue a travel agent pulls in comes from two sources: commissions and service fees. Let’s break it down.

1. Commissions: the bread & butter of a travel agent’s salary

Commissions are paid by suppliers (such as hotels, cruises, tour companies) to a travel agent, for booking their services on behalf of a client. The commission is a percentage of the sale. 

Here’s some behind-the-scenes. Travel industry suppliers pay advisors commission, because booking with a travel agent directly delivers a higher quality, more reliable client, as compared to big travel sites like Booking.com. Additionally, the supplier is able to keep more of the profit than they would if the client booked through an online travel site, which are known to take a much higher distribution fee. More importantly, if your clients are happy with the service, you’re more likely to send future clients back to the same supplier, setting up a potential revenue stream for them. 

This transaction model is also far less expensive than what the supplier might have paid for traditional advertising, so it’s an easy expense to incorporate the travel agent in.

What’s commissionable? Hotel bookings, travel insurance, car rentals, tours… (hint: a lot)

All sorts of travel experiences are commissionable, not just hotel reservations. Car rentals, chauffeur services, event tickets, cruises — the list goes on. Check out Fora’s guide to the types of bookings you can make as a Fora Advisor (that aren’t hotels) for more details.

It’s also worth noting that the best travel agents earn their salary smartly, and sometimes that means avoiding less valuable commissions. Booking economy airline tickets for a client, for example, can often be more trouble than it’s worth. The margins are slim and the complexity of air travel — delays, cancellations — means booking flights for a client can introduce more problems than it solves.

2. Planning & service fees: the icing on the cake of a travel agent salary

Planning and service fees account for how travel agents make money from just about everything that’s not commissionable. It’s the money (aka travel agent salary) clients pay you to provide something of value, such as building a custom itinerary or making a reservation for a travel experience that isn’t commissionable — you should still be compensated for your time and expertise, after all. 

Why do travel agents charge fees for things like custom itineraries? 

Again, this goes back to being paid for your efforts. 

The cool thing is, many clients are happy to pay for your expertise. You’re adding value to their trip they likely wouldn’t have received otherwise, whether it’s the convenience of not having to do the legwork themselves (freeing up their time), highlighting some sort of experience they wouldn’t have encountered or providing your insider intel and expertise honed from personal experience or research.

How much money do travel agents make?

In addition to the question, “what’s in a travel agent’s salary?” you’re probably wondering “how much do travel agents make?” 

We can’t speak for other agencies, but Fora travel advisor salaries vary wildly, depending on whether it’s a full-time focus or side hustle. At the end of the day, how much you earn is correlated to how much you book. For instance, if you book a family cruise in the tens of thousands of dollars, your commission will be substantial. You could also get the same commission by handling individual hotel bookings, but at a higher amount. 

Top travel advisors can make well into six figures. Meanwhile, some advisors focus on booking travel for their friends and family purely as a side gig, and may earn an extra $10k each year, for example. There’s no wrong way to make money as a travel agent (with Fora, at least).

And remember, building your book of business is an entrepreneurial journey. It takes time; you'll start smaller but can grow over time. And at Fora — between our resources, tools & community, – we're here to support you every step of the way.

How much do travel agents make per booking? Do travel agents get paid hourly?

While rare, some agencies do pay their travel agents an hourly rate as part of a travel agent salary. At Fora, we prefer flexibility, meaning our advisors work whenever they want, and as much as they want. A lot of Fora Advisors are part-timers who enjoy careers in other fields.

Fora Advisors make their travel agent salary via commission, which is split between the advisor – Fora collects a small percentage. Our entry-level commission split for Fora Advisors is 70%.

As for how much travel agents make per booking , traditional commission rates hover between 10 and 15 percent, however, they can be as low as 7% and even as high as 28% (we see you, cruise companies).

To break it down with some easy numbers, if you’re booking a hotel room that costs 1k per night. With an average commission of 15%, the total amount earned is $150. Fora Advisors would keep $105 of that. Fora keeps $45 as the host agency.

And remember: unlike many other host agencies, Fora handles all commission tracking and payments (thanks to our all-in-one, integrated booking platform ), so you get paid without lifting a finger. 

How do Fora Advisors maximize their commissionable revenue?

There are a lot of ways Fora Advisors boost their travel agent salary. Here’s how.

(P.S. Looking for more reasons to become a Fora Advisor ? Hear what existing Fora travel advisors have to say.)

Enticing travelers with premium incentives (like hotel perks) is one of the best ways Fora travel agents earn their salary

Through a variety of supplier partnerships (as of publish date, over 4,500), Fora Advisors offer awesome perks to their clients that sweeten their travel experience. 

For example, some of the perks at the coolest hotels in Downtown NYC include complimentary hotel credits that can be put toward spa treatments or meals. This means the client is getting much more value out of their stay (complimentary meals, upgraded rooms, VIP status, etc.), so it’s a win-win.

Perks and incentives aren’t limited to hotels, by the way. Virgin Voyages travel agents , for instance, can score early ship boarding and onboard credits for their clients.

Some Fora Advisors have a niche, like group, corporate or other specialized types of travel

A niche can be a great way for travel agents to make a higher salary.

Luxury travel agents cater to discerning explorers who might prefer to stay at world-class hotels (like ritzy hotels in Dubai or Grand Cayman resorts ). Disney travel agents earn commissions on entire vacation packages. And travel agents who specialize in group bookings can pull in substantial commissions for booking event venues, whole hotel floors and so on (read more about mastering the art of group bookings ).

As a host agency, Fora provides a ton of support to help travel agents make money, from training to lead generation

With rookie-to-advanced travel agent training , and a suite of tools ranging from lead-generation opportunities to custom marketing collateral to a seamless in-house booking platform, Fora is committed to helping our advisors succeed. We’re with them every step of the way.

In other words? We take care of the logistics (invoicing, commission payouts) and provide all the groundwork for how to be a successful travel advisor , so you can focus on the fun stuff.

… and offers super-fast payments

Fora makes it clear that they expect speedy payments from suppliers, and Fora Advisors are often paid before we receive a check. Likewise, our payments are the fastest in the business. You can expect commission payments twice monthly, via direct deposit.

(For the exact process, learn how travel agents get paid .)

Ready to start earning a travel agent salary? Become a Fora Advisor today

Want to find out how travel agents make money firsthand? Become a Fora Advisor and start your career — or side hustle — in travel today.

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How Much Do Travel Agents Make?

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SOURCE: TravelPulse

If you are considering a career in travel, becoming a travel advisor may be one of the first things that come to mind. Wondering how much a travel agent makes? It’s a hard number to pin down and one that is reliant on several different factors. However, two are most indicative: education and experience.

When looking at historical data that includes all travel agents, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and  Host Agency Reviews  (HAR) found that the average travel agent made approximately $44,00 on average in 2019 (the last year that normal, pre-pandemic data was available).

BLS pegs the average salary of a travel agent at $44,690 with a range of between $23,360 and $69,420 dividing the lower to upper 10 percent of travel agents.

Host Agency Reviews found that, in 2019, the average salary hovered around $44,312 for hosted travel agents with three or more years of experience.

While this data seems easy enough to digest, it only shows part of the picture of what a travel agent makes. Annual salaries vary widely depending on the type of travel agent a person is, whether or not they are affiliated with a host agency, are an employee or self-employed or an independent contractor for a larger travel agency.

For those looking to work in the travel industry selling travel, host agency reviews found that travel agent employees tend to have a more predictable salary. Holding a position as an employee of a travel agency where salary and commissions play less of a part in overall wages. Overall earnings for these travel agents were as follows according to the Travel Institute in 2019:

–37% of travel agent employees earned less than $24,000 annually –25% earned $24,000-$59,999 –18% earned over $60,000.

Travel agent wages also fluctuate with experience. According to an ASTA report on corporate travel agents with experience earn approximately $13,000 more per year than their newbie counterparts. For leisure travel agents, those with experience earn around $10,000 more annually. According to HAR’s 2019 Travel Agent Income Survey, hosted agents with three or more years of experience earn an average of $44,312 in 2019.

Education also plays a significant role in how much money a travel agent makes. In fact, the Travel Institute found a direct correlation between  earnings and agent education  in its Changing Face of Travel Agents research. The results show that there is a clear line that can be drawn between higher sales numbers and certification levels.

“I look at these results, especially compensation, as a trifecta for our industry beginning with well-trained travel professionals who are earning significantly more money than agents without advanced learning,” said Travel Institute president Diane Petras.

Travel agents do not need to have certification to sell travel in the United States. But  certification and specialization  are directly tied to higher salaries.

The Travel Institute provides a number of educational paths and higher-level certifications to travel agents. That is just one way to earn more, however.

Other programs, such as the Travel Agent Success Kit (TASK) provide a series of educational opportunities that are designed to teach travel agents how to become travel agent entrepreneurs and grow their travel business.

“When TASK was introduced eight years ago, I made a commitment to the industry to have limited online sessions, make sure that agents learn how to make their own money but cultivating relationships with vendors, tour operators here in the USA and abroad,” said Tammy Levent, president of TASK. “The problem facing our industry is that we are accustomed to being told what we are to make. In our TASK live course, we teach our agents how to negotiate from 20 to 40 percent profit–not commissions, but how to become entrepreneurs and make a good profit.”

TASK offers a series of online videos as well as live events, including TASK Live, an agent mastermind event teaching already-seasoned professionals specifically how to grow their business and increase profits. There is an elite-level TASK Live event as well as private consulting.

“I always say, one agent at a time as an advocate and a voice for the travel agent,” said Levent. “I have so many [agents] that want to take my course and find it hard to believe that they can make so much money. At the end of the day, I teach them to take the money and that they deserve it. They did all the work.”

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How Much Money Can I Make as a Travel Professional in 2022?

How Much Income Can a Home Based Travel Agent Expect in 2022 and Beyond?

Written By: Tom Ogg, Co-Owner – TravelProfessionalNEWS.com

One of the first questions most new agents have is about the potential income that can be generated by a home based travel agent. Industry resources show relatively low incomes for agents at an average of around $37,000 per year and this is because many home based travel agents only work part time and do not have the expectation of generating large incomes. Many are retired from other careers and have pensions and investments they depend on and enjoy the benefits of being in the travel industry as their primary motivation. Other agents sell travel to family and friends part time and also maintain a full time career in another industry. Other more successful travel agents operate as C Corporations and pay themselves relatively low salaries and prefer to take money out of the C Corp as distributions thereby avoiding the self employment tax if they took it all out as salaries. So, while the numbers seem depressed, be assured that there are a good number of home based travel agents making excellent incomes from their business. So the question becomes “How can I make a substantial income as a home based travel agent”.

And, the answer is certainly much more complex than the question.  Before we get too far into the subject, you should read the tutorial “ Developing a Travel Business Concept ” to understand some of the basic elements that will affect your ability to make a generous profit from your business.

In its most simplistic form, profits are generated by the payment of a commission from the supplier to the agent. Commissions are paid for handling the sale on behalf of the supplier and virtually every supplier has different remuneration programs.

Suppliers may also pay “overrides” or additional commission based on the total productivity of an agent. Many suppliers offer override programs based on the total volume of business the agent books with the supplier. As an example, a supplier may pay a 10% commission to an agent for the first booking, but then have a sliding scale of overrides that may stretch from 1% to even 6 or 8% on top of the base commission.

To make matters even more confusing, a supplier may also have money to invest in promotions and promotional materials on top of the commission and overrides that are paid to the agent. The trick is to access these base commissions, overrides and promotional cooperative funds to generate the highest possible yield in your revenue. This is accomplished by focusing your business in a highly productive and complex niche where the rewards are substantial.

So let’s explore the various types of travel products that are likely to generate a substantial income once you become expert at selling them. But, before we get into the details, the industry has not yet settled down from the COVID pandemic and it is quite difficult to know how the industry will shape up. One thing is for sure though. Suppliers will look towards travel agents to create demand and then fulfill it and they will be more than willing to pay handsomely for the business

The Types of Travel That Could Make a Home Based Travel Agent Money

While most mass-market cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, NCL, etc) pay a 10% commission, the question is 10% of what? NCFs (Non Commissionable Fares) have increased dramatically thereby reducing the overall percentage of commission on selling mass-market cruises. For more information on selling mass market cruises be sure to read “ How to Make Money Selling Mass Market Cruises ” and also watch the video tutorial. Both the luxury cruise market and niche cruise markets pay a true 10% base commission and can be highly lucrative niches. The River Cruise market is extremely popular right now and also quite competitive among river cruise companies and represents an excellent opportunity to earn very attractive margins. All cruise lines have override programs and also money to invest in well thought out promotions with productive agents. While the cruise lines have suffered financial losses during the pandemic shut down, look for each cruise segment to reward travel agents with excellent commissions and incentives as they return to profitability.

Packaged and FIT (Free Independent Travel, or independent tours) pay at least a 10% commission. There are many tour companies that serve individual destinations or niches that one may evolve a special relationship with that could far exceed 10%. There are also many tour companies such as Globus that offer worldwide tours to virtually every destination around the world. Virtually all tour operators offer defined override programs and also have cooperative promotional and advertising funds available for agents. Specializing in complex FIT and Escorted international tours is an excellent way to generate a large income. This is especially true as the world reopens after the pandemic. Escorted tours are becoming very popular with clients that want to travel internationally, but also want the security of knowing there will not be issues encountered while traveling.  

All-Inclusive Resorts

The demand for all inclusive resorts has exploded and has become an excellent market to specialize in. I know of one agent who specializes in luxury all inclusive resorts and is generating over five million in sales annually between he and his wife and three independent agents. By focusing the bookings with operators that handle all inclusive resorts, such as Apple Leisure Group, they gain considerable overrides and other benefits. You can focus your attention on a certain level of all inclusive, or on a particular destination. However, you must be able to add expert value to the client booking with you to really capture the market. All inclusive resorts have not had the trauma that the cruise industry has during the COVID pandemic.  

Groups can be highly profitable, especially if you are packaging complex international groups and adding specific value that the client is looking for. This is especially true in the post-pandemic era. Clients want to feel safe and secure. While many agents use tour operators to package the group and work on a commission basis, the real profits come from negotiating net rates with the suppliers that you will be using and marking up the group so that you earn a 25% to as high as 40% commission. The more complex and niche specific with a substantial value-add by you is the way to go. You can operate the same itinerary multiple times and generate huge profits. Look for a niche that you have special knowledge of and also are connected to, for an obvious opportunity.  

Niche Travel

Specializing in a specific travel niche is a wonderful way to generate an excellent income. However, the niche needs to be complex and your value-add is your expert status within the niche. Niches including international travel and special knowledge or talents to plan the travel is what you should look for. Many times an agent’s passion for a certain type of travel is what leads to establishing their niche. Marketing niche travel is becoming so easy because of social media and Internet search.   Here are just some of the travel niches you might want to explore.

Adventure Travel

The Millennial generation isn’t really interested in sightseeing, but would rather pursue experiential travel instead. This would include many aspects of adventure travel.

Bucket List Travel

Many baby boomers have more money than time and have a list to “to-dos” on their bucket travel list. Think about focusing on travel experiences that might be high on many baby boomers bucket list. Look for the baby boomer market to explode with pent up demand for bucket list travel once the pandemic is behind us.

Destination Weddings

Very popular with the Millennial generation, specializing in destination weddings in offbeat locations is a definite winner as a travel niche. All-Inclusive resort destination weddings with a twist is the way to go. The key to selling destination weddings in the post-COVID era is to completely understand the situation in the destination you are selling.

Foodie Travel

Oh boy, this niche has really increased in popularity. Travelers of all ages are so interested in exploring different culinary experiences. European Villas with chefs that take clients shopping in the local markets and then show them how to prepare superb meals are wonderful. Look for post-pandemic foodie travel to become extremely popular, as it checks all the boxes for safe international travel.

LGBTQ Travel

The LGBTQ market is huge and loves to travel. Specializing in LGBTQ travel destinations is an excellent way to generate a meaningful income. This is true especially as the pandemic slows down. Knowing current travel conditions in LGBTQ destinations is a huge value to this particular market.  

Medical Tourism

While not new in the travel industry, Medical Tourism has matured as a real niche that you can explore. As an example, the new Punta Mita Hospital in Punta Mita, Mexico performs cosmetic surgeries and clients can recuperate in 5-star resorts or villas while they heal. There are thousands of opportunities across the world for folks that want quality care at affordable prices.

Sports Tourism

There are opportunities in every sport known to mankind to specialize in. Here are just a few ideas. Fishing, skiing, surfing, SCUBA diving, hunting, hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, skate boarding, snowboarding, para gliding, golf, tennis, organized sports like baseball, football, basketball, soccer, and so many more. The trick is to find a sport that you are well invested in and have a great deal of knowledge about.

Women Only Travel

Women only travel has grown in popularity and will continue to do so and is an excellent niche to pursue. Women that have been through various types of personal trauma (divorce, loss of spouse, loss of career, loss of a child and so on) need time with their peers to recover.

One of the most interesting niches that the pandemic has created is that people that were office centric became working-from-home-centric and loved it. The move from city to country is now widely understood and these folks that have sought to relocate to a much nicer work environment also understand that they don’t actually have to be home to work. Anywhere in the world with a good Internet access becomes a great location for them to work. And, the rest of the family benefits from being located in a completely different culture or vacation environment.

While there are several other categories of travel that could result in a rewarding income, If your objective is to make profits in the six-figures as a home based travel entrepreneur you need to follow these ideas in a way that will create your ability to conclude complex and high yielding transactions with a minimum of time invested. Once you have achieved this objective you will find yourself amply rewarded with an excellent income.

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How Does a Travel Agent Get Paid?

Updated April 4, 2024

Stepping into the travel industry can feel like learning a new language, especially when it comes to understanding the financial aspects. Today, we're going to demystify the commission process for new agents at Gateway Travel, guiding you from the initial booking to the final commission disbursement.

1. Understanding Your Commission Package

The journey starts with selecting the right commission package during your Gateway Travel sign-up process. This decision should align with your personal travel business goals. For detailed information, visit our Commission Pricing Page. In this example, let's consider you've chosen the 80% commission plan.

2. Booking Your First Trip

Once registered with Gateway Travel and your commission plan set, your journey begins. Our New Agent Support Team will guide you through booking and training with top-tier suppliers. You'll have access to exclusive booking platforms for both personal and client trips. Imagine booking a group cruise on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. This group cruise will cost your clients $1,500 per cabin. If your group is ten cabins, that's $15,000 – Congrats, you've just your first step into the world of travel sales!

3. Recording Your Booking

After securing your booking through the exclusive travel agent platform, it's time to notify Gateway Travel. You'll enter the reservation details into our CRM (Client Relationship Management) system. This system is your dashboard for tracking clients, bookings, and payments.

4. Calculating Your Commission

Commissions are typically released by suppliers to Gateway Travel within 30 days post client check-in. Group cruises are even faster! For example, with a 16% contracted commission rate from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, on a $15,000 client trip, the calculation would be:

- $15,000 Trip Total

- 16% Commission from RCCL

- $2,400 Commission Earned

- 80% Agent Commission Split

- Over $1,900 Paid to You!

5. Receiving Your Commission

Gateway Travel agents enjoy the convenience of direct deposit payments on the 15th and 29th of each month. We prioritize timely and accurate payment, reflecting our commitment to agent support.

Our Commitment to Our Agents

At Gateway Travel, serving our agents is our primary focus. We don't sell travel; we provide unparalleled support to our agents, ensuring you can thrive uniquely. With transparent operations, no hidden fees, and zero startup costs, our goal is to empower you to 'Be You' in your travel business.

Join Our Team

Ready to embark on your journey as a travel agent? Get Started Today!   

Join our team and discover why our agents rave about us on Facebook. Experience the Gateway Travel difference!

At Gateway Travel, our top priority is serving our agents. Unlike other companies, we don't sell travel; we focus solely on providing exceptional support to our agents.

Join us with confidence—Gateway Travel has NO HIDDEN FEES  and NO START-UP COSTS .  ✨

We’re dedicated to helping you stand out and succeed.

Ready to Sign-up? Get Started Today!   

Have Questions? Schedule a Learn About Call

Join our amazing team of agents!  🌟 Check out our Facebook Reviews  to hear what our agents are saying.

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Work Style Select Hybrid Remote

REMOTE | Personal Holiday Planner Agent

Company overview.

At Carnival Cruise Line, our mission is to create safe, fun, and memorable vacations at a great value. As a valued member of our team, you'll actively contribute to developing exceptional travel experiences and unforgettable moments, every single day. Your Carnival journey begins here!

Our Culture Essentials

Joining the Carnival team means embracing our six Culture Essentials, which are the cornerstone values shaping our identity, principles, and actions. These beliefs and behaviors not only define who we are but also unite us as a team, guiding us in decision-making, fostering relationships, tackling challenges, and reaching milestones. These culture essentials propel us toward a shared vision of success, ensuring a collective effort in shaping our future.

• Respect & Protect
• Listen & Learn
• Communicate

Responsibilities

Job description.

We are seeking  REMOTE | Personal Holiday Planner Agent for a start date of Monday, October 07, 2024. Currently considering residents from ONLY Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas.

Essential Functions:

• Promote and sell Carnival Cruise Line cruises for Australia, by initiating contact with guests and acting on leads and/or prospects by phone both inbound and outbound calls. Required to meet or exceed assigned sales goals. 
• Present cruise products and make travel recommendations. 
• Establish and maintain customer relationships by delivering excellent customer service such as making changes, upgrades and additions to current bookings. 
• Continue the relationship building of past and current guests. Actively solicit new business. 
• Maintain customer database of new and existing accounts to close sales. 
• Attend and participate in mandatory training and meetings as required with their coach and management team on a regular and Ad-hoc basis. 

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• ONLY considering residents from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas.
• Preferred sales experience.
• Cruise line or travel industry experience a plus. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite including Teams and Outlook. Ability to learn and adapt to new technology. 
• Excellent attendance and punctuality. 
• Must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to other country business practices for calling and adhering to customer telemarketing standards, (i.e. Australia). 
• Excellent communications skills both written and verbal. 
• Ability to be persuasive, build rapport quickly and easily. 
• Ability to overcome objections. 
• (EST) 11:00 AM - 08:00 PM on the 1st day ONLY and forward 
• (EST) 01:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Monday through Friday for the duration of the training
• ( EST ) 07:00 PM - 04:00 AM Sunday through Thursday / ( AU GMT+10 ) 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM Monday through Friday
• The starting hourly pay rate for this role is $15/hour. 
• Currently considering residents from ONLY Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas.
• Please upload an updated resume (PDF Version) to be considered for this role.
• FOR INTERNAL CANDIDATES : Candidate cannot be on a verbal, written or final warning in place. All applicants must advise their Coach/Manager of their interest in applying for the role.

Carnival provides comprehensive and innovative benefits to meet your needs, including:

• Cost-effective medical, dental and vision plans
• Employee Assistance Program and other mental health resources
• Additional programs include company paid term life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match
• Employee Stock Purchase plan
• Holidays – All full-time and part-time with benefits employees receive days off for 7 company-wide holidays, plus an additional floating holiday to be taken at the employee’s discretion.
• Vacation Time – All full-time employees at the manager and below level start with 14 days/year; director and above level start with 19 days/year.  All employees gain additional vacation time with further tenure.
• Sick Time – All full-time employees receive 80 hours of sick time each year. 
• Complementary stand-by cruises, employee discounts on confirmed cruises, plus special rates for family and friends
• Personal and professional learning and development resources including tuition reimbursement

ETHICS & COMPLIANCE:

In addition to other duties/functions, this position requires full commitment and support for promoting ethical and compliant culture. More specifically, this position requires integrity, honesty, and respectful treatment of others, as well as a willingness to speak up when they see misconduct or have concerns.

In addition to other duties/functions,this position requires full commitment and support for promoting ethical and compliant culture. More specifically, this position requires integrity, honesty, and respectful treatment of others, as well as a willingness to speakup when they see misconduct orhave concerns.

CarnivalCruise Line is the most popular cruise brand in North America and operates a fleet of ships designed to foster exceptionally safe, fun and memorable vacation experiences at an outstanding value. Our employees have a responsibility to be accountable for all actions. We consider the environment in all aspects of our business and have a responsibility to put safety and sustainability first. We live and share a positive attitude which is based on fostering an environment of inclusion, trust, a willingness to listen, openness and integrity. Doing this helps us to achieve our ultimate goal, which is to include FUN in everything we do! Speaking of fun, we are officially certified as a Great Place to Work aboard our ships as well as in our global corporate headquarters!

Carnival Corporation & plc and Carnival Cruise Line is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. In this regard, it does not discriminate against any qualified individual on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin,religion, sexual orientation, age,marital status, mental, physical orsensory disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, federal, and/or international law. 

Employee Benefits

Hybrid work environment.

Empowering work-life integration and flexible opportunities for your personal and career success

Wellness Programs

Comprehensive employer wellness programs featuring mental health support and fitness options, including an on-site gym

Cruise Benefits

An array of qualified complimentary and heavily discounted cruise options for the ultimate dream getaway

Parental Programs

Generous parental leave time and adoption assistance programs

Retirement Plan

Secure your future with our exceptional Traditional and Roth 401(k) options complemented by valuable company contributions

Employee Stock Purchase

Invest in tomorrow with the opportunity to purchase Carnival shares at a discounted rate from their fair market value

In addition to the above, we offer PTO and company holidays as well as a variety of medical, dental, and voluntary plans

In our virtual contact center, we're all about unlimited growth opportunities and creating a supportive, inclusive environment. We believe in fostering professional development and providing our team members with the tools and resources they need to excel in their roles. Our community values diversity, ensuring that everyone feels respected and supported in a welcoming atmosphere where personal and professional growth knows no limits. Above all, we're committed to delivering an exceptional guest experience, making customer satisfaction a top priority in everything we do.

I love the variety in my work at Carnival. Each day brings new challenges that require creative thinking. Collaborating with different team members on projects keeps things fresh and interesting, making every day unique and exciting. Moreover, being part of Carnival means being part of a culture that values initiative and fosters continuous improvement. This sense of empowerment fuels my passion for what I do and inspires me to strive for excellence every day.

Miguel Fleet Technical Document Center Manager Summit Seeker

Carnival is a great place to learn and grow.

Tyrone Lost Mail Clerk Chess Master

Carnival’s culture is fun, welcoming, vibrant, flexible, fast-paced, diverse, and innovative. Carnival welcomes guests from all over the world to sail on our ships. Our crew members are caring and make the guest experience awesome. The fun continues to connect shoreside where I have an opportunity to interact with employees from all levels of the organization to assist them with their HR questions. From the guest to shoreside experience, we embrace the FUN!

Annelys HR Services and Shoreside Immigration Supervisor Fitness Guru

Carnival has been instrumental in my personal growth by providing opportunities to step out of my comfort zone and develop essential skills like flexibility and teamwork. Professionally, their commitment to continuous learning and career development has empowered me to take on new challenges and advance in my field.

Conchita Senior Revenue Business Analyst Culinary Explorer Restaurant Explorer

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Tim Walz’s Long Relationship With China Defies Easy Stereotypes

Mr. Walz, the Democrats’ vice-presidential nominee, taught in China and has visited the country around 30 times. But he has also been critical of the Chinese government’s human rights record.

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By Amy Qin and Keith Bradsher

Amy Qin reported from Washington, and Keith Bradsher reported from Foshan, China.

In the summer of 1989, Tim Walz faced a difficult choice.

A newly minted college graduate from small-town Nebraska, he had just turned down a stable, 9-to-5 job offer and moved across the world to teach at a local high school in China. He had made it as far as Hong Kong, just across the Chinese border, when People’s Liberation Army tanks rolled into Tiananmen Square to crush pro-democracy protests.

Rumors were flying about a possible civil war in China. Many foreigners, including most American teachers, had fled the country. Should he go back home or continue his journey into China?

He decided to go in.

“It was my belief at that time that the diplomacy was going to happen on many levels, certainly people to people,” Mr. Walz recalled in 2014 during a congressional hearing marking the 25th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown. “The opportunity to be in a Chinese high school at that critical time seemed to me to be really important.”

The one year that Mr. Walz spent teaching English in southern China was the start of what would become a decades-long relationship with the country. As high school teachers in Nebraska and Minnesota, Mr. Walz and his wife, Gwen, regularly led trips to China in the 1990s and early 2000s to introduce students to China’s history and culture. Mr. Walz has said that he has traveled to China some 30 times, including for his honeymoon.

That deep history of engagement with China reflects a lesser-known international dimension of the Democratic vice-presidential candidate. If elected vice president, Mr. Walz would bring to the White House unusually extensive personal experience in China — a history that supporters say could be an asset at a time of volatile relations between Washington and Beijing.

But the campaign has so far made little mention of Mr. Walz’s experience there, even as it has leaned into depictions of the Minnesota governor as an avuncular Midwestern dad, coach and teacher. And it has yet to lay out how Vice President Kamala Harris or Mr. Walz would handle China, which both the Biden and Trump administrations have treated with toughness.

Republicans, by contrast, have already begun to seize on the governor’s personal experience in China to accuse him of being soft on a country that is now seen as America’s greatest military and economic rival.

Richard Grenell, who served as ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence in the Trump administration, said on X that “Communist China” was “very happy” with Ms. Harris’s choice of Mr. Walz as her running mate. Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas said that Mr. Walz owed “the American people an explanation about his unusual, 35-year relationship with Communist China.”

A spokesman for Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz’s campaign accused Republicans of “twisting basic facts” and “desperately lying” to distract from former President Donald J. Trump’s agenda.

“Throughout his career, Governor Walz has stood up to the CCP, fought for human rights and democracy, and always put American jobs and manufacturing first,” said James Singer, the spokesman, referring to the Chinese Communist Party. “Vice President Harris and Governor Walz will ensure we win the competition with China, and will always stand up for our values and interests in the face of China’s threats.”

Mr. Walz’s record in the House, from 2007 to 2019, showed a lawmaker who often drew on his personal experience in the country to lay out sharp critiques of China’s human rights record. He took a special interest in Tibet and Hong Kong, meeting with both the Dalai Lama and Joshua Wong, a prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy activist.

An adventure

Years before Mr. Walz became an outspoken critic of the Chinese government, he was a wide-eyed college graduate eager to learn more about the world beyond the farms and ranches of Nebraska.

Mr. Walz was 25 when he arrived at Foshan No. 1 High School in southern China, near Hong Kong, as part of the WorldTeach program, a nonprofit affiliated with Harvard University. The school is in one of Foshan’s oldest neighborhoods, where thick banyan trees dangle aerial roots over sidewalks and streets.

Mr. Walz soon settled into the cocoon of daily life on a small-town campus, even as the chaos of the Tiananmen Square crackdown more than 1,100 miles away rippled across the country. He taught four English and U.S. history classes a day with about 65 students in each class. As one of the first American teachers at the school, he was afforded small luxuries like an air-conditioner and a monthly salary of around $80 — double what the local teachers earned.

Students loved their “big-nosed” teacher, giving him the nickname “Fields of China” because his kindness, they explained to him, was so expansive. For Christmas, some of his students and friends cut down a pine tree, decorated it and brought it to his room.

“No matter how long I live, I’ll never be treated that well again,” Mr. Walz told the Star-Herald in Scottsbluff, Neb., in 1990.

He also took a train up to Beijing and visited Tiananmen Square, where soldiers had fatally shot hundreds, maybe thousands, of protesters and bystanders not long before.

Upon his return to Nebraska in 1990, he told the Star-Herald that going to China was “one of the best things” he had ever done. But he said he also felt that the Chinese people had been mistreated and cheated by their government for years.

“If they had the proper leadership, there are no limits on what they could accomplish,” Mr. Walz said at the time. “They are such kind, generous, capable people.”

Returning again and again

By 1994, Mr. Walz had taken a job teaching social studies at Alliance High School in western Nebraska. There, he met and fell in love with a fellow teacher, Gwen Whipple. They married on June 4 — which happened to be the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown. He later would say, “There was no doubt I would remember that date.”

Shortly after, they left for a trip that effectively became their honeymoon: a field trip to China with 60 students.

Mr. Walz was determined to share with his students the marvel of discovering the wider world beyond small-town America, according to interviews with four former students and a professor who went on the yearly trips that the Walzes had organized in the 1990s.

The students, most of whom had never traveled abroad, barely spent any time in the classroom. In addition to sightseeing, they met with tai chi masters, practiced their chopstick skills at family-style meals and tried Chinese calligraphy.

On the trip in 1993, Mr. Walz brought the group to meet his former students at Foshan No. 1 High School. One of Mr. Walz’s friends guided them throughout the two-week trip and was so beloved that one of the students, Kyle Lierk, recalled crying when they had to say goodbye.

“It was clear that Tim was able to build the trip around humanity,” recalled Mr. Lierk, now 47.

Shay Armstrong, a former student who went in 1993 and 1994, recalled learning about some of the more disturbing aspects of Chinese Communist Party rule. They were told about the harsh “one-child” policy, under which most couples who had more than one child were forced to pay fines.

While visiting Tiananmen Square, Mr. Walz explained the history of the bloody crackdown and the brutal governance of Mao Zedong, China’s former chairman, she said.

“It wasn’t all bubbles, hearts and rainbows,” recalled Ms. Armstrong, now 46.

The Walzes continued leading the student trips to China even after they moved in 1996 to Mankato, Minn., organizing the visits through a company that they had established called Educational Travel Adventures.

A vocal critic of China

As a congressman, Mr. Walz did not shy away from talking about his experience in China.

But he was also critical of the Chinese government from the start. And over his 12-year tenure in the House, Mr. Walz’s criticisms of China’s human rights record became even sharper, especially as the Chinese government took a more authoritarian turn under Xi Jinping.

Mr. Walz served on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, a bipartisan group of lawmakers focused on monitoring and reporting on human rights and the rule of law in China. Transcripts show that other commission members often praised Mr. Walz for his expertise.

“You are a great asset to our commission,” Representative Chris Smith, Republican from New Jersey and then-chairman of the commission, said to Mr. Walz during a 2011 hearing.

Mr. Walz cosponsored a resolution demanding the release of Liu Xiaobo, a Chinese dissident and Nobel laureate. He criticized China’s unfair trade practices and crackdown on rights lawyers and religious groups.

In 2015, Mr. Walz participated in a rare American delegation to Tibet led by Nancy Pelosi, then the House minority leader. The next year, he met with the Dalai Lama in what he later described in a social media post as a “life-changing” lunch.

Jeffrey Ngo, a prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy activist, credited Mr. Walz with being at one point the only House Democrat willing to continue backing the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, which would compel the U.S. government to impose sanctions on officials responsible for human rights abuses in Hong Kong.

Mr. Ngo said Mr. Walz’s support helped keep the bill alive at a crucial time until it was eventually passed.

“Walz is perhaps the most solid candidate when it comes to human rights and China on a major-party ticket in recent memory, if not ever,” Mr. Ngo said.

Toward the end of his tenure in Congress, Mr. Walz continued to stress the importance of identifying areas of cooperation with China. But he also began to question the long-held wisdom that opening up trade with China would lead the country to become more open and democratic.

“I certainly was under the illusion that liberalizing trade and openness would have a significant impact on liberalization of personal freedoms,” Mr. Walz said during a congressional hearing in 2016. “I have now seen that is not the case.”

In the decades since Mr. Walz arrived at Foshan, the high school that launched his lifelong interest in China has expanded considerably.

On a visit to the high school on Wednesday, news of Mr. Walz’s ascent to the Democratic ticket drew vastly different reactions.

As students in blue and white uniforms exited the school’s gates, they said that their school’s connection to a suddenly prominent American politician had been the talk of classrooms and online chat rooms.

Meanwhile, a school dean said that the school had no comment on Mr. Walz. And guards at the school gate prevented journalists from entering the grounds to see the campus museum.

Dionne Searcey , Amy Chang Chien , Li You and Alain Delaquérière contributed reporting and research.

An earlier version of this article misstated the last name of the person who took the photograph featuring Mr. Walz and students at the Great Wall of China. She is Jillian Walker, not Jillian Taylor.

How we handle corrections

Amy Qin writes about Asian American communities for The Times. More about Amy Qin

Keith Bradsher is the Beijing bureau chief for The Times. He previously served as bureau chief in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Detroit and as a Washington correspondent. He has lived and reported in mainland China through the pandemic. More about Keith Bradsher

Keep Up With the 2024 Election

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Money blog: Tesco hikes meal deals; gold prices hit record; Mars responds to calls for revival of classic sweet

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Today's posts include a look at Premier League jersey prices and Tesco upping the price of its meal deal. Let us know which discontinued sweet or treat you'd like to see revived in the comments box.

Tuesday 20 August 2024 15:36, UK

• Tesco hiking price of meal deal - it's no longer the cheapest
• Gold price reaches record high - here's what's going on

Essential reads

• How much does it cost to buy a Premier League home kit in 2024?
• Will one of country's most beloved sweets return to shops?
• Pay at every supermarket revealed - and perks staff get
• How couples split finances

Tips and advice

• How to get money back when purchase over £100 goes wrong
• 'Should I top up my national insurance and could it really get me £6,000 extra?'
• Fixed energy tariffs that could help you beat winter price rise
• All discounts you get as student or young person

Ask a question or make a comment

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

The price of gold has soared to a record high of more than $2,522 (£1,938) per ounce today.

It comes after months of the precious metal steadily rising in value.

Many factors are thought to have played a part, but analysts believe the latest leap is largely down to the weaker US dollar and growing expectations that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates next month.

Lower rates tend to make a country - and its currency - less attractive to investors, because they end up getting lower returns on bonds, shares and other investments.

There are also general worries about the status of the US economy, amid rumblings it could enter a recession this year or next - although some commentators have downplayed the likelihood of this.

But it is not just the US that is on the cusp of reducing the cost of borrowing.

The European Central Bank and the Bank of England both recently cut interest rates - and are expected to do so again this autumn - which may also be off-putting to some investors.

What has all this got to do with gold?

It's largely because of its perceived status as a "safe haven" investment.

Gold is seen as solid and dependable - both literally and in its value as a commodity.

It has been prized and sought after since ancient times - and its valuable status seems certain to continue long into the future.

So when things seem uncertain - and when interest rates are being seemingly cut everywhere - putting your money in gold may seem like a good bet (or so the thinking goes - of course, many would argue there is no such thing as a sure bet in the financial markets).

This "safe haven" status also helps explain why the price of gold may have been steadily rising in recent months, as fears have grown over an escalation of the wars in the Middle East and between Russia and Ukraine.

Tesco is hiking the price of its meal deal from Thursday.

Those using a Clubcard, which Tesco says is 80% of customers, will now pay £3.60.

This is up from £3.40, which had been the cheapest meal deal available at one of the traditional supermarkets.

Those without a Clubcard will now pay £4 - up 10p.

A Tesco spokesperson told the Money blog: "Clubcard members will pay just £3.60 for a main, snack and drink, meaning our meal deal remains great value and the ideal way to grab lunch on-the-go. 

"With millions of possible combinations across our stores, our recent improvements to ingredients and more than 20 new mains introduced this summer, the Tesco meal deal has got something for every taste."

The cost of the premium meal deal is unchanged at £5.

How does this compare?

Waitrose has the most expensive meal deal at £5 for the main, snack and drink combo. 

In July, Sainsbury increased the cost of its lunchtime meal deal by 25p from £3.50 to £3.75. 

A  Morrisons  meal deal costs £3.50, which is the same as  Co-op members - though non-members pay £4.

Asda  doesn't offer a fixed price for its meal deal. Instead, it operates a 3 for 2 system, which gives customers the cheapest item for free. 

If you read the Money blog on Friday you'll remember Gail's bakery chain came under fire for repurposing unsold pastries into croissants and selling them for almost £4 the next day.

We reported how the retailer lists the "twice baked" chocolate almond croissants as part of its "Waste Not" range, which means it is made using leftover croissants that are then "topped with almond frangipane and flaked almonds".

The scheme was criticised online, with many pointing out the £3.90 price tag is 95p more than the original croissant.

It's worth reiterating that the practice was not invented by Gail's - almond croissants were originally created by French boulangeries to reuse day-old croissants and stop them going stale.

We asked Gail's for comment and didn't hear back until late yesterday - this is what they said...

"We created our Waste Not range at Gail's to make good food go further. 

"Our almond croissants and chocolate and almond croissants are strong favourites in our bakeries. The croissants are soaked in demerara syrup and topped with our house-made frangipane spread, alongside crunchy almonds.

"The day-old croissants are sturdier than fresh ones, making them the perfect bake to be used. 

"We are big supporters of improving food systems, working with companies such as Too Good To Go and Neighbourly to reduce our impact on food waste and uplift communities. 

"Any bakes leftover at the end of the day are shared with charitable organisations in our neighbourhoods. Through our partnership with Neighbourly, we have donated the equivalent of 81,000 meals, reaching 239 good causes."

It comes as locals in a trendy London neighbourhood signed a petition against a Gail's bakery setting up shop in their area.

After (unconfirmed) rumours began circulating that the chain was looking to open a site in Walthamstow village, more than 600 have signed a petition opposing the plans.

The petition says the village "faces a threat to its uniqueness" should Gail's move into the area.

Read more...

Basically, Section 75 is a way to get your money back if a retailer hasn't provided the goods or services you paid for - so long as you used a credit card or point of sale loan.

The price of the purchase must be   between   £100.01 and £30,000, but you only have to spend one penny of it using a credit card for your rights to kick in.

Section 75 is enshrined in law - the Consumer Credit Act 1974 - and allows you to raise a claim with your bank for a breach of contract or misrepresentation by the retailer.

The protection was put in place to make sure customers are not forced to pay off debt for faulty goods and services - or those that never arrive - by making the lender just as liable as the retailer.

When does Section 75 apply?

• Goods or services were not as described
• They were poor quality, defective, or not fit for purpose
• An item never arrived - including if the seller went bust
• A service wasn't carried out with reasonable care

How does it work?

You should contact your bank, who will investigate how you made your purchase and who was involved.

There needs to be a clear agreement between the customer, the supplier and your bank.

"They will ask for more details – explain how your consumer rights have been breached, you have exhausted all options with the retailer and cannot resolve your dispute," consumer champion Scott Dixon, from  the Complaints Resolver , told the Money blog.

"You need to push hard on S75 claims, as claims are often rejected on the first attempt."

It is useful to have supporting information to hand, like proof of payment, contracts, terms and conditions, screenshots of product descriptions, correspondence, photo evidence or - in some cases - independent assessments.

Scott added: "If you reach a stalemate with the credit card provider or finance company, ask for a deadlock letter setting out their final position so you can submit a formal complaint (with the final response/deadlock letter) to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). 

"They do not like cases being referred to the FOS as it costs them money."

When doesn't Section 75 apply?

• You paid with a debit card, charge card, cash, credit card cheque, or bank transfer;
• You paid with your PayPal balance (but you are protected if you used PayPal Credit);
• The credit was given under an overdraft or general-purpose bank loan;
• You purchased multiple items that only cost between £100.01 and £30,000 when added together;
• You bought the item from a third-party seller, like Amazon Marketplace or a travel agent;
• You used a buy now, pay later service or a hire purchase.

And read more from our Basically series here...

Rising optimism about the prospects of a ceasefire in the war in Gaza has sent the price of oil - and shares in energy giants – tumbling.

The cost of a barrel of benchmark Brent Crude has dropped to just over $76 (£58), the lowest price since the beginning of the month.

Shares in Shell and BP have also both slipped by around 2% in early trading.

Hopes of cooling tensions in the Middle East have helped ease fears of risks to supplies in the region.

Other factors said to be having an impact on oil prices include an increase in production at Libya's Sharara oilfield and concerns over China's slowing economy, including slower industrial output.

Another big faller this morning is BT Group. Its shares are down more than 5% after it was announced that Sky will launch full fibre broadband services next year on the network of BT's rival Cityfibre.

The falls have contributed to the FTSE 100 dipping by more than 0.5% on Tuesday, with the FTSE 250 also down 0.13%.

Gainers include easyJet Plc, which is up more than 1.2% amid optimism over the tourism industry this summer.

Similarly, Intercontinental Hotels Group is up by a similar level, while British Airways owner IAG is up nearly 0.8%.

Meanwhile, on the currency markets, this morning £1 buys $1.30 US or €1.17.

Pensioners are being urged to check if they are eligible for the winter fuel allowance after universal payments were scrapped by new Chancellor Rachel Reeves last month.

Previously, the money was available to everyone above state pension age, but now it will be limited to people over state pension age who are receiving pension credit or other means-tested support.

It means the number of people entitled to the money will drop from 11.4 million to just 1.5 million.

The payment is £200 for households where the recipients are all under 80, and £300 where they are over 80.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving pension credit, there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim, the Department for Work and Pensions says.

The government's awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December - the last date for making a backdated claim for pension credit in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

It will focus on "myths" that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving pension credit.

More information on applying for pension credit can be found on the  government's How to Claim page .

Yesterday we brought you the unwelcome news that winter energy bills are projected to rise by 9%, according to the latest forecast from Cornwall Insight.

Its newest prediction says the price cap from October to December will go up to £1,714 a year for the average user - a £146 hike from current levels.

We'll find out for sure on Friday.

Comparison service Uswitch says the forecast "compounds the worry" about rising bills for residents across the country "just as we reach the season to switch the heating back on".

"The price cap is expected to rise again in January, but bill payers can take action now to lock in certainty on how much they pay," says Uswitch director of regulation Richard Neudegg. 

It is worth pointing out that it's in Uswitch's favour for people to move - but there are definitely savings to be made based on current forecasts.

Here are the top 10 fixed energy-only tariffs that could help you beat the price rise as temperatures drop, according to Uswitch:

By Mark Wyatt , Money reporter

The Premier League returned over the weekend, with supporters across the country back in stadiums for another season of drama.

Many of those fans will want to show their support by donning the latest kits in the terraces, but this particular purchase can cost an arm and a leg.

Shirt prices have rocketed in recent years, with some clubs now charging 50% more for their home kits than they did five years ago - Nottingham Forest among them.

Money blog research shows the most expensive adult's home jersey in the Premier League this season belongs to Tottenham Hotspur, with the Lilywhites charging £85.

That's only one penny more than London rivals Chelsea, who are asking fans to fork out £84.99 for an adult home kit.

At the other end of the scale, newly promoted Ipswich Town are charging "just" £59 for their home kit, £1 less than Brentford, Crystal Palace and Southampton.

Here's what we found...

Wolves have recently released a cheaper home shirt offering at £58, significantly less than their £80 'Pro' kit, which is the same shirt the players wear on matchday. 

According to separate research carried out by The Sun, Forest have raised their prices more than any other team since 2019. A replica kit was priced at £48 in 2019 but now costs £75, a 56% hike.

Southampton's price rise of 9% (£55 in 2019 compared with £60 now) represents the smallest increase.

For a child's replica home kit, the most expensive shirt in the Premier League is once again Spurs at £65. They come in one penny more than Chelsea.

Fulham, Liverpool, Manchester City and West Ham all charge £60 for a children's replica home kit, while Ipswich Town, again, come in cheapest at £43.

After the revival of popular Cadbury's chocolate bar Top Deck earlier this year, we asked you which discontinued treat you would like to see brought back - and we got so many responses that we've decided to make a weekly feature of it called  Bring It Back . 

Every Tuesday, we'll pick one from our comments box and look at why it was so beloved and, crucially, find out whether the companies in question might consider reintroducing them.

This week we are looking at a product that sparked an outpouring of nostalgia from readers - Spangles.

The boiled sweets were produced by Mars Ltd from the 1950s until the 1980s.

At the time they were first launched, sweets were still subject to post-war rationing - with tokens from ration books needed on top of the price of sweets.

However, for reasons that are not entirely clear, only one token point was required for Spangles, compared with the two required for other sweets and chocolate - a factor considered significant in their popularity.

Originally sold in a paper packet with individual sweets unwrapped, the marketing underwent a series of changes over the years they were available.

Each sweet was formed into a rounded square with a circular depression on each face.

Each bag of the standard product contained a variety of translucent, fruit-flavoured sweets: strawberry, blackcurrant, orange, pineapple, lemon and lime, and cola.

A number of single-flavour varieties were launched at different points, including acid drop, barley sugar, blackcurrant, liquorice, and tangerine. A white mint Spangle, complete with hole, was even produced as a competitor to another longstanding favourite, the Polo mint.

One reader, Margaret, said she had fond memories of the sweets from childhood.

"Every Friday when we got our pocket money, I'd always buy a bag of Spangles," she said.

"They were lovely and I can't think of anything I associate with childhood more than them. I'd just be over the moon if they brought them back."

Another reader, going by the name Spangles, has become familiar to us at the Money blog in recent weeks: "I'll post this every week ;)  Week 4... I can't be the only person that would love to see Spangles back. 'Suck a spangle, be happy' as the jingle goes. Best sweets ever. Fizzy were another level!"

Tommo Boy simply said: "Yummy."

And in a similarly concise appraisal, Kat said: "Bring back Spangles!"

As normal, we asked the company associated with the now defunct product whether they might consider responding to the popular demand with a relaunch.

And while they did not exactly commit, a Mars Wrigley UK spokesperson offered something for Spangles fans to cling to.

"We're always listening to the fans of our chocolate and fruity treats, which is why we're constantly innovating our ranges." they told Sky News.

"Whilst our beloved Spangles aren't currently on shelves, we're pleased to offer many delicious alternatives such as Starbursts and M&M.

"We've always got an ear to the ground and recognise the enduring love for old favourites, so stay tuned for some epic comebacks that could be happening soon… Watch this space!"

Which currently discontinued chocolate bar, crisps, sweets - or any other food product - would you like to see brought back, and why? Let us know in the comment box at the top!

The number of drivers visited by bailiffs due to unpaid traffic fines has increased substantially, according to a report.

Four million penalty charge notices (PCNs) were referred to bailiffs in England and Wales in the 2023-24 financial year, it is claimed.

This is up from 2.4 million during the previous 12 months, 1.9 million in 2019-20 and 1.3 million in 2017-18.

Read more ...

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