The Challenges of Starting a Career in the Travel Industry
Starting a career in the travel industry can be both exciting and intimidating. From navigating economic uncertainties to keeping up with rapid technological changes, new travel advisors face a unique set of challenges. Geopolitical tensions, competition from online travel agencies, and the need for constant adaptation make this field particularly demanding.
To help those just beginning their journey, seven experienced travel advisors shared their insights and best practices. Their advice covers essential areas such as self-motivation, client relationships, and work-life balance.
Practice Self-Motivation and Discipline
Kendra Wolfe, owner of Zip Travel Co., emphasizes that self-motivation and discipline are crucial for success in this industry. “This business will not build itself for you,” she said. “There’s no boss standing over your shoulder making sure you follow up with clients, no time clock pushing you to put in the hours, and no guarantee of instant success.”
Wolfe believes that discipline transforms potential into results. “It’s our willingness to show up day after day — even when the bookings aren’t rolling in yet, even when you feel unseen, and even when it would be easier to quit,” she added. She encourages new advisors to create structure in what can feel like an unstructured job. While motivation gets you excited, it’s discipline that keeps you moving forward when excitement fades.
Be Clear and Consistent
Chesleigh Lloyd, founder of Elevate Travel, advises new advisors to define and customize their process. This includes discovery calls, itinerary development, and follow-ups. A clear and consistent process helps build client loyalty.
Lloyd also highlights the importance of networking with fellow advisors and others in the travel industry. “Having these personalized connections reminds you that you’re part of a truly amazing community,” she said. Building strong relationships within the industry can provide support and valuable insights.
Prioritize Learning
Claire Schoeder, an independent contractor with Elevations Travel, stresses the importance of learning. “Start with an experienced mentor or pro who you can follow as you begin your career,” she said. “Listen to them as they work with clients and vendors, see how they research, and find material to read.”
Schoeder also recommends joining groups focused on new agents if their consortium offers such opportunities. Continuous learning is key to staying competitive and knowledgeable in this ever-changing industry.
Forge Strong Client Ties
Isabel Perez, a luxury advisor with Forest Travel, believes that delving deep into clients’ travel experiences is vital. “Learning how to live vicariously through others” allows advisors to forge enduring relationships. “Seeing your clients’ excitement and joy is how you, as an advisor, also get to enjoy the journey,” she said.
Perez also emphasizes the value of curiosity and open-mindedness. “This industry is always changing, and every client is different, so being willing to learn, adapt, and really listen will take you further than just memorizing destinations or products.”
Travel Regularly
James Berglie, president of Be All Inclusive, advises new advisors to get out there and see the world. “Too many people love the idea of being in the travel industry but don’t realize that truly being in the industry means you’ll likely never take a true vacation ever again in your life,” he said.
Berglie adds that product knowledge is critical. “You need to travel regularly and learn the locations and properties so you can sell them accordingly.”
Take Your Career Seriously
McLean Robbins, founder of Lily Pond Luxury and an affiliate of Travel Experts, says that a career as a travel advisor is not for hobbyists. “This is not a fun side hustle; it’s a career,” she said. “From day one, treat your travel business like a business: Invest in education, align with a host agency that supports your goals, and put real systems in place to track growth.”
Robbins notes that successful advisors operate like CEOs, running a business that earns trust, scales sustainably, and delivers a luxury-level client experience every time.
Find a Work-Life Balance
Ryan Spear, president of Spear Travel Group, warns against burning out by not affording oneself any downtime. “You have to prioritize yourself as well as your business,” he said. “Make sure you structure your service and business model to a point where it allows you to live the type of life you expected when you became an advisor.”
Spear adds that happiness is essential. “If you aren’t happy, it’s tough to make your clients happy.” Finding a balance between professional and personal life is crucial for long-term success.
