What Does a Travel Agent Do?
A Travel Agent helps clients plan, book, and manage travel experiences, whether for business, leisure, or group events. Their role includes researching destinations, coordinating transportation and accommodations, advising on travel documentation, and tailoring experiences based on client preferences and budgets. Travel Agents often serve as trusted advisors, guiding clients through every step of their journey.
Beyond booking logistics, Travel Agents provide added value through insider knowledge, supplier connections, and personalized support in case of disruptions. They stay current on travel regulations, weather patterns, and vendor policies, providing travelers with peace of mind and time savings. Many agents specialize in specific types of travel, such as luxury vacations, corporate itineraries, or cruises, requiring in-depth niche expertise.
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Travel Agent Core Responsibilities
- Plan and book travel arrangements, including flights, hotels, cruises, and car rentals
- Provide expert recommendations based on client preferences, budgets, and restrictions
- Research and stay informed on destinations, travel advisories, and entry requirements
- Manage changes, cancellations, and emergency support during travel
- Maintain strong relationships with vendors and negotiate rates when possible
- Sell travel insurance and assist with passport and visa processes
- Promote and sell packages, tours, or upgrades based on customer interests
- Use Global Distribution Systems (GDS) to access and manage travel inventory
- Handle invoicing, payments, and documentation
- Track client satisfaction and maintain long-term customer relationships
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency with Global Distribution Systems (e.g., Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo)
- Strong knowledge of geography, cultures, and travel logistics
- Ability to compare rates, routes, and availability efficiently
- Familiarity with travel insurance and visa documentation processes
Soft skills
- Excellent communication and active listening
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
- Problem-solving under pressure, especially with last-minute changes
- Customer-focused mindset and high attention to detail
Educational requirements
High school diploma or equivalent; an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in hospitality, business, or travel management is a plus
Certifications
Certification from The Travel Institute (e.g., CTA, CTC) or American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is preferred but not always required.
Travel Agent Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in travel planning or hospitality sales
- Multilingual ability or international travel experience
- Familiarity with niche travel markets (e.g., cruises, adventure travel, luxury vacations)
- Experience using CRM or travel agency software
National Average Salary
Travel agent salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Travel Agent is:
$52,366
Sample Travel Agent Job Descriptions
Crafting the perfect job description may be the key to finding an exceptional travel agent. To help you with your recruiting search, our team has put together some examples from past openings.
Example 1: Corporate Travel Agent
Position overview
A Corporate Travel Agent manages travel logistics for employees and executives within a business setting. This role is responsible for coordinating flights, accommodations, and ground transportation that align with company policies, cost controls, and time-sensitive needs. Corporate Travel Agents play a critical role in helping organizations minimize travel disruptions and maximize productivity.
Responsibilities
- Arrange and manage business travel itineraries for employees and executives
- Ensure compliance with company travel policies and budget guidelines
- Secure corporate rates and negotiate vendor contracts with airlines, hotels, and rental agencies
- Provide support for last-minute changes, cancellations, and rebooking
- Track loyalty programs, travel credits, and expense reporting
- Coordinate international travel requirements, including visas and COVID restrictions
- Use GDS platforms to access and manage bookings
- Maintain detailed traveler profiles and preferences
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in GDS platforms (e.g., Sabre, Amadeus)
- Familiarity with corporate travel software and expense management tools
- Knowledge of global travel protocols and compliance regulations
Soft skills
- Excellent multitasking and crisis-management abilities
- High attention to detail with time-sensitive itineraries
- Strong communication with stakeholders at all levels
Educational requirements
High school diploma; associate’s or bachelor’s in travel, hospitality, or business preferred
Certifications
CTA (Certified Travel Associate) or CTC preferred
Preferred qualifications
- Experience managing high-volume corporate travel accounts
- Background working with executive-level clients
- Knowledge of global time zones, currencies, and frequent flyer programs
Example 2: Leisure Travel Agent
Position overview
A Leisure Travel Agent helps individuals and families plan memorable vacations and personal getaways. This role involves researching destinations, building custom itineraries, and managing bookings for flights, accommodations, tours, and excursions. Leisure Travel Agents bring expert insight and support to every part of the trip planning process.
Responsibilities
- Consult with clients to understand vacation goals, preferences, and budgets
- Recommend destinations, accommodations, and activities based on client interests
- Coordinate all travel arrangements and documentation
- Monitor travel alerts, cancellations, and health requirements
- Provide concierge-style service before and during travel
- Sell travel insurance and upsell premium experiences
- Maintain ongoing relationships for repeat travel planning
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with travel planning software and destination research tools
- Working knowledge of popular vacation destinations, resorts, and cruise lines
- Ability to manage bookings through supplier platforms or GDS systems
Soft skills
- Personable and engaging customer service
- Creative planning with attention to detail
- Patience and responsiveness with last-minute requests
Educational requirements
High school diploma; associate degree in travel, tourism, or hospitality preferred
Certifications
Certification from The Travel Institute or ASTA is preferred
Preferred qualifications
- Previous experience with tour packages or resort-based travel
- Background in customer sales or luxury hospitality
- Passion for global travel and culture
Example 3: Online Travel Agent
Position overview
An Online Travel Agent (OTA) supports clients booking through digital platforms, offering real-time assistance and back-end management of travel reservations. They handle high booking volumes, assist with troubleshooting, and ensure a seamless digital experience. This role is ideal for agents with strong tech skills and a customer service focus.
Responsibilities
- Assist clients with booking and modifying travel via web-based systems or apps
- Resolve technical or itinerary issues through live chat, email, or call support
- Provide destination advice and itinerary confirmation via digital channels
- Process payments, cancellations, refunds, and booking adjustments
- Monitor real-time travel alerts and update clients as needed
- Maintain system accuracy and data integrity across all platforms
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with online booking platforms and CRM tools
- Technical troubleshooting and understanding of digital travel interfaces
- Familiarity with GDS and OTA platforms (e.g., Expedia, Booking.com)
Soft skills
- Fast, clear written communication skills for digital support
- Problem-solving with limited client information
- Ability to handle high volume while maintaining accuracy
Educational requirements
High school diploma; coursework in IT, travel, or e-commerce a plus
Certifications
Not required, but digital customer service training is beneficial
Preferred qualifications
- Experience working with online travel agencies or digital service providers
- Multilingual ability for global customer support
- Comfort with metrics like resolution time and customer satisfaction scores