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Do Travel Agents Make Good Money Full-Time vs Part-Time?

  • Writer: Joshua Rich
    Joshua Rich
  • Sep 10
  • 4 min read

September 10, 2025

Smiling man in office holds paper plane, gives thumbs up. White shirt, blue tie. Shelves with books and trophies in the background.

Are you curious about whether travel agents can make good money whether they work full-time or part-time? This guide breaks down all aspects of travel agent careers, including part-time travel careers, commission and earnings, training and certification, a travel agent career guide, and supplier partnerships. So, if you’ve ever wondered how the earnings stack up between full-time and part-time travel agent roles, you’re in the right place!


Understanding the Travel Agent Landscape

Travel agents play a crucial role in creating unforgettable experiences for travelers. Over the past few years, the industry has transformed significantly; many agents are pivoting from traditional roles to focusing on niche markets. Whether it’s planning extravagant trips to exotic locations or helping families organize budget-friendly vacations, many agents are thriving in this space.


The Factors Affecting Earnings

Before diving into earnings, it's essential to consider several factors that can influence how much money a travel agent can make, whether part-time or full-time. Here are some key components:


- Experience Level: More experienced travel agents tend to earn higher commissions and can develop a loyal clientele.

- Niche Market: Some niches, such as luxury travel, adventure tourism, or corporate travel, can yield higher commissions compared to general travel.

- Network and Partnerships: Strong relationships with suppliers and vendors can enhance earnings through exclusive deals or incentives.


Part-Time Travel Careers

For those considering a part-time career as a travel agent, the flexibility can be a huge draw. Whether juggling family commitments or another job, many people find that part-time travel careers can provide a satisfying balance between work and personal life.


Benefits of Part-Time Travel Careers

- Flexibility: Set your hours based on your availability.

- Low Starting Costs: Many part-time agents operate from home, which means lower overhead costs.

- Opportunity to Explore Niches: Part-time agents can focus on specific markets that interest them without the pressure of a full-time commitment.


Earnings Potential

While part-time travel agents may not earn as much as their full-time counterparts, many still bring in a solid income. Depending on their focus and clientele, part-time agents might earn anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000 annually. The key lies in how well they tap into their networks and their sales skill sets.


Commission & Earnings

When assessing travel agent earnings, it's important to understand the commission structure. Most travel agents earn their income through commissions, which come from suppliers (like airlines, hotels, and cruise lines) for booking services. Here's how that typically breaks down:


- Commission Rates: Travel agents usually earn between 10% to 20% commission per booking, depending on the supplier and the complexities of the itinerary.

- Incentives: Many suppliers offer additional bonuses or incentives for reaching specific sales targets.


Full-Time vs Part-Time Commissions

- Full-Time Agents: Full-time agents often have a broader client base, leading to more commissions. They are expected to actively market their services, which generates income through repeat business and referrals.

- Part-Time Agents: While part-time agents might have fewer clients, careful management of their time and strong networking can yield significant income. They can still capitalize on commissions generated from bookings, albeit at a smaller scale.


Training & Certification

Whether you're looking to pursue a travel agent career part-time or full-time, the right training and certification can enhance your earning potential and credibility. Consider these options:


A woman presents with a smile in front of an audience seated in rows. A man with a notebook stands nearby. Bright, minimal room.

- Travel Agent Courses: Online courses can provide foundational knowledge about the travel industry and tools for effectively assisting clients.

- Certification Programs: Consider pursuing certifications like those offered by The Travel Institute or the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). These not only enhance your skills but also make you more appealing to potential clients.


Travel Agent Career Guide

So you’re convinced that becoming a travel agent might be right for you? Here’s a quick travel agent career guide on how to get started:


1. Research the Industry: Understand the various niches and market trends.

2. Get Training: Invest in a reputable travel agent training course.

3. Network: Connect with other travel agents and industry suppliers for support.

4. Join Professional Associations: Memberships can provide further resources and networking opportunities.

5. Market Yourself: Utilize social media and create a website showcasing your services and expertise.


Supplier Partnerships

Building strong partnerships with suppliers is a game-changer for any travel agent. The better your relationships are, the more access you have to exclusive deals, incentives, and valuable resources. Here are ways to strengthen your partnerships:


- Attend Trade Shows: Exposure to a variety of suppliers can enhance your knowledge and help you build crucial relationships.

- Join Consortia: Being part of a host agency or travel consortium can provide access to better commission rates and marketing tools.

- Maintain Communication: Follow up regularly with suppliers to stay updated on promotions and incentives that could benefit your clients.


Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a travel agent—whether part-time or full-time—can be a lucrative and fulfilling career, especially with the right training, networking, and commitment. Full-time agents generally have higher earning potential due to a broader client base and consistent commissions, while part-time agents enjoy the freedom of flexible schedules and the opportunity to work from home.


If you’re ready to embark on a travel agent journey or elevate your existing career, consider diving deeper into training and making those crucial supplier partnerships. You might just find that this path leads to your dream job and a satisfying income!


Are you ready to explore the world of travel agency? Join Gateway Travel to learn more about how you can succeed in this exciting industry! Explore training options and become part of a supportive community of travel professionals today!


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