07/23/2025
🌍✨ I’ve been asked a lot lately: “What does it take to become a travel advisor?” So here’s the honest, behind-the-scenes truth.
Being a travel advisor isn’t all first-class flights and free vacations. It’s running a real business — one that takes time, money, consistency, and heart to grow.
Here’s what most people don’t see:
🔹 I only get paid when a trip is booked and completed — no hourly wage, no salary.
🔹 I personally cover business costs like licensing fees, marketing tools, design software, flyers, training programs, and more.
🔹 I spend hours on training and certifications — for cruises, resorts, destinations, and even theme parks. (Yes, even Disney requires yearly recertification!)
🔹 “Work trips” are work — I pay for my own flights, hotels, transportation, and often childcare. These trips are for education and growth, not lounging by the pool.
🔹 There’s stiff competition — not only from other advisors but also from a giant, always-online travel market.
Sure, there are perks here and there — like an occasional park ticket or hotel discount — but they don’t begin to cover the investment I pour into this business. Truth is, I’m still in the building phase, which means I’m spending more than I’m earning.
💬 Many seasoned advisors will tell you it takes years to get established — and they’re right.
It can be tough putting in hours of work on quotes and itineraries only to be ghosted or see someone book elsewhere. But I keep going because I love what I do and believe in what I’m building.
💛 Travel has always been a passion of mine, and helping others experience it has become my purpose. This business is a dream turned reality, even on the hard days.
And because I’m genuinely thankful for every person who chooses me to plan their trip, I use part of my commission to send thoughtful gifts to my clients — not because I have to, but because I want to.
If you’re thinking about becoming a travel advisor, know that it’s a real investment. But if you’re passionate about people and the power of travel — it’s worth every bit of it.
I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned, the wins and the struggles — so feel free to reach out anytime.