How can I become a travel agent?

Becoming a travel agent can be a great option for  people who love to travel and are willing to share their enthusiasm. Travel agents can work for very small or very large companies and help clients travel around the world.  In addition, many travel agents are able to travel for free or a heavily discounted rate.

Most travel agencies require a minimum educational level of a high school diploma.  Depending upon the agency, it may be beneficial for a potential travel agent to have a bachelor’s degree in business, history, communications, or similar fields.  Customer service experience is also helpful if you want to become a travel agent.   A good way to get become a travel agent is to work in another capacity at a travel agency, gaining experience in the field.

In the United States, the American Society of Travel Agents offers both special trips and correspondence courses for people interested in becoming travel agents.   Courses are also available in specialized types of travel such as ocean cruises, ecotourism, or volunteer trips.  Travel agents can specialize in one specific type of trip or generalize.

It is definitely helpful for travel agents to have experience traveling, although it is not usually a requirement for hiring.  However, if you do not enjoy traveling, this is a sure sign that you should not go into the travel industry.  It is important to be enthusiastic about travel to get clients interested and excited about their travel plans.