How to Become a Travel Agent

What does it take to become a travel agent? First and foremost you need to love for travel. A travel agents main duties are to assist customers with picking out their destination and then making the travel arrangements for them. You will need to be people oriented with great customer service skills and be able to share your travel enthusiasm and knowledge with others.

1. Basic Skills: Computer skills are essential. Most travel is booked online either through portal websites that the vendors provide or software that a host agency provides. You'll also need excellent customer service skills, communication skills and be well organized. It's important to have good phone etiquette skills as well.
2. Host Affiliation: One of the the easiest ways to become a travel agent is to affiliate yourself with a host travel agency. A host agency will supply an agent with the tools needed to book travel and even provide training. Most travel agents even use the host agencies IATA or CLIA number to purchase travel through different travel wholesalers and operators.
3. Training: Travel agent training programs will provide you with all of the basic knowledge you need to successfully sell and book travel. Your local college may also have courses you can take.
4. Certifications: There are many certifications you should and can obtain. The most notable is the CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) or CTA (Certified Travel Associate) offered from the Travel Institute.
5. Insurance: Errors and Omissions Insurance is required for all travel agents. There are many insurance companies who can provide quotes on this type of insurance but is generally around $300-$400 a year.