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What does a Travel Agent do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A travel agent helps people plan vacations and other trips. They make travel arrangements for clients, such as booking flights, rental cars, and hotels. Travel agents also give advice on where to go and what to do while on vacation.

Travel Agent job duties include:

  • Greeting customers and providing them with assistance
  • Determining customer needs and suggesting suitable travel options
  • Booking travel accommodations and making other arrangements
  • Providing information about local attractions, events, and activities
  • Coordinating travel itineraries and reservations
  • Handling customer complaints and resolving issues
  • Monitoring changes in travel regulations and advisories
  • Keeping up to date with industry news and developments
  • Selling travel insurance
  • Upselling additional products or services

Travel Agent Job Requirements

Most travel agents have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most agencies provide some on-the-job training. Agents must be able to use a computer to keep track of reservations and schedules. They also need excellent people skills to deal with customers. Some states have certification requirements for travel agents.

Travel Agent Skills

  • Patience
  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Multi-tasking
  • Time management
  • Research
  • Problem solving
  • Creativity
  • Sales skills
  • Customer service
  • Attention to detail

Related: Top Travel Agent Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Travel Agent

A travel agent is someone who arranges travel for individuals or groups. They book flights, hotels, and transportation, and often act as a tour guide. Travel agents typically have a wide knowledge of destinations and can offer advice on what to see and do once you’re there.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent, the first step is to research the industry. There are many different types of travel agents, so it’s important to find the right fit for you. Are you interested in working with a specific type of traveler? Do you want to specialize in a certain destination? Once you know what kind of travel agent you want to be, you can start taking steps to make it happen.

The next step is to get certified. Many travel agent positions require certification from a professional organization like the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). Certification shows that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful travel agent.

Once you’re certified, the next step is to find a job. You can search for open positions online, or contact a local travel agency directly. Many travel agencies have training programs for new agents, so this is a great way to get your foot in the door.

If you’re serious about becoming a travel agent, follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to an exciting new career!

Related: Travel Agent Resume Example

Related: Travel Agent Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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