How to Become a Travel Planner: Your Guide to Starting a Career in Travel

Discover how to turn your passion for travel into a career! Learn the steps to become a travel planner, from starting your own business with Thatch to getting your travel agent certification. Explore earning potential, key skills, and tips for growing your client base in this comprehensive guide.

Liv Coning

Marketing Lead

Aug 26 2024

How to Become a Travel Planner

Are you passionate about travel and dreaming of turning it into a career? You're not alone! Many people are curious about how to become a travel planner. In this blog post, we'll answer the top frequently asked questions about starting your journey in the travel industry, including options like starting your own business with Thatch, getting a travel agent certification, or exploring other avenues.

What exactly does a travel planner do?

A travel planner, who can also be referred to as a travel agent or travel advisor, helps clients plan and book their trips. This can include:

Recommending destinations based on clients' preferences
Booking flights, accommodations, and activities
Creating customized itineraries
Providing travel tips and insider knowledge
Assisting with travel documentation and insurance

Do I need a special degree to become a travel planner?

While a specific degree isn't always required, having a background in tourism, hospitality, or business can be beneficial. Many successful travel planners have diverse educational backgrounds and bring their unique experiences to the job.

What are the different ways to start a career as a travel planner?

There are several paths you can take to become a travel planner:

1. Starting your own business with Thatch

Thatch offers a unique opportunity to start your own travel business. As a Thatch seller, you can:

Create and sell digital travel guides, itineraries, and planning services
Set up your own Travel Shop on the Thatch platform
Access tools and resources to help you succeed
Join a community of like-minded travel entrepreneurs

2. Getting a travel agent certification

Obtaining a certification can enhance your credibility and knowledge. Some popular certifications include:

The Travel Institute's Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)
American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) certifications
Destination-specific certifications offered by tourism boards

You don't need all of these certifications to become a travel planner. The text lists these certifications as options, not requirements. The certifications are presented as ways to enhance your credibility and knowledge in the field.

You can choose to pursue one or more of these certifications based on your career goals and the specific area of travel planning you want to focus on.

3. Becoming a certified travel agent and using Thatch

This hybrid approach combines the benefits of professional certification with the flexibility and reach of the Thatch platform:

Obtain a travel agent certification for industry knowledge and credibility
Utilize Thatch as your primary platform for services and products
Develop and market both free and paid digital travel guides and itineraries
Offer personalized trip planning services to clients
Use Thatch's tools and community to expand your business
Combine traditional travel agent resources with modern digital opportunities

Talia Mazepa is a great example of a travel agent who uses Thatch to bring even more value to her clients.

How much do travel planners get paid?

Travel planners typically get paid through multiple channels:

Service fees for planning trips and creating itineraries
Commissions from hotel bookings and other travel services
Sales of travel guides, maps, and other digital products
Consultation fees for travel advice

For example, on the Thatch platform, travel planners can earn:

90% of their sales from digital products and services
6% commission from Booking.com
8% commission from Viator

Earnings can vary widely depending on your business model, expertise, and client base. As a Thatch seller, you have the flexibility to set your own prices for guides and services. Traditional travel agents often earn a combination of commissions and service fees.

Here are the typical prices for Thatch products and services:

Guides and Itineraries:

Guides typically sell for around $8-$25
Itineraries generally range from $25 to $50+

Custom Itineraries:

Standard: $50+ per day planned
Premium: $100+ per day planned
Luxe: $150+ per day planned

Consultation Calls:

30-minute call: $50
60-minute call: $75

Personalized Recommendations:

10 recommendations: $25
20 recommendations: $50
40 recommendations: $75

It's worth noting that prices can vary based on the travel planner’s experience, expertise, and the value they provide to clients. Some travel planners may offer free guides to showcase their expertise and earn through tips and commissions.

What skills do I need to succeed as a travel planner?

Key skills for success include:

Excellent communication and customer service
Attention to detail and organization
Adaptability and problem-solving
Knowledge of destinations and travel trends
Marketing and networking abilities

How do I gain experience and build a client base?

Start by Planning Trips for Friends and Family

Begin your journey as a travel planner by offering your services to those closest to you. This approach allows you to gain practical experience in a low-pressure environment. You can refine your skills in itinerary creation, budget management, and addressing travel concerns while receiving honest feedback from people you trust.

Specialize in a Niche or Specific Destination

Focusing on a particular type of travel or destination can set you apart in the competitive travel planning industry. Whether it's adventure travel, luxury experiences, or becoming an expert on a specific country or region, specialization allows you to develop deep knowledge and become a go-to resource for clients seeking that particular experience.

Examples of Thatch travel creators with a specific niche:

Leverage Social Media to Showcase Your Expertise

Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to share your travel experiences, tips, and insights. Regular posting of high-quality content can help establish your credibility as a travel expert. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your planning process, destination highlights, and client testimonials to attract potential customers and build your brand.

Offer Exceptional Service to Encourage Word-of-Mouth Referrals

Providing outstanding service to every client is crucial for building a reputation and growing your business. Go above and beyond in your planning, be responsive to client needs, and follow up after trips to ensure satisfaction. Happy clients are likely to recommend your services to friends and family, helping you expand your client base organically.

Is now a good time to become a travel planner?

Yes! The travel industry has rebounded strongly, and there's a growing demand for personalized travel experiences. Platforms like Thatch are making it easier than ever for passionate travelers to turn their expertise into a business.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you choose to start your own business with Thatch, pursue a certification, or explore other options, becoming a travel planner can be an exciting and rewarding career.