As with anything worth having, it’s worth working for.
While it can be very rewarding, there is no quick and convenient way to properly establish and grow a thriving Travel Agent business.
While not easy, it is not so unbelievable to picture yourself owning a successful travel business. Whether your goal will be to offer straightforward services or a niche that offers all-in-one travel solutions, it takes meticulous planning and preparation.
With that said, while it may not be impossible, it is also not going to be easy. 

Much like any business owner will inform you, it will take hard work, planning, and dedication. This is not a step by step guide to starting up a lucrative travel agency. This document is intended to help guide your planning and research.

Always Start With A Plan 

One of the most essential steps to creating and establishing a successful business is to have a proper plan and measurable goals in place. While recently researching the fundamentals of creating a personalized strategy plan and defining measurable objectives, I came across an article by MyConsultingCoach that covered case interview preparation. 

The article goes on highlighting the value of a well-structured plan and how your plan lays the foundation on which your business is started. A plan is no longer just a plan when you have narrowed the most important elements of your business vision. It generates value, encourages growth and promotes vision.

Information Is Key

There is so much more to being a Travel Agent than simply charging a fee for buying a plane ticket or renting a hire car on someone’s behalf. Before you can start goal-setting, research and analysis are vital. Recognizing what you want will help narrow and clarify your general vision and stipulations. Always remember you can improve value through knowledge. 

Take the time to discover and properly evaluate your insight and skill. There are a considerable number of creative ways you can positively improve and empower yourself through specific insight. Take a look at other added resources and courses, like Commerce and Business Administration. 

Conduct Expansive Research

Your research should not be limited to legal or service level requirements. For example, you need to identify your target market and know your competitors. The good thing to come from all the hard work is that a complete analysis will not only help you narrow down the key elements of your plan but help guide your overall business planning. Start with the basic questions, for example: 

• Are there any special licensing and registration specifications? 

• What are the minimum academic or experience requirements?

• What type of training and essential accreditation is required and what resources are available to achieve these specifications?

• How do training and accreditation affect my overall long term goals? 

• Do I have the right skills?

• Should I consider a mentor or coach?

• Who is your target market?

• Do you want to typically focus on a unique niche or generalized services?

• You need to consider the logistics of your plan. For example, where will your established office or base be? What equipment will you require? Do you need to hire dedicated staff or rent office space?