If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been thinking about becoming a travel agent for a while. Maybe you’re tired of your current job, craving more flexibility, or you’re just passionate about travel and want to turn that into something meaningful. The question “where do I even start?” probably keeps coming up.
Here’s the truth: the travel industry isn’t some exclusive club that requires years of experience or expensive qualifications to enter. The first step is simpler than you think, but it’s also the most important one you’ll take.
TL;DR: Your Quick Start Guide
- Real first step: Choose the right host agency that offers proper training and support (not just promises)
- Myth buster: You don’t need travel industry experience, expensive courses, or business qualifications to start
- Practical truth: Focus on finding a platform that gives you ATOL protection, real suppliers, and a community that actually helps
- JLT advantage: Complete training academy, 200+ suppliers, and 80/20 commission split from day one
The Real First Step (It’s Not What You Think)
Most people assume the first step is getting a travel qualification or spending thousands on a course. Wrong.
The actual first step is choosing the right host agency.
This decision will determine everything else: your earning potential, the support you receive, the suppliers you can access, and whether you’ll feel confident or overwhelmed in your first few months.
Think of it like choosing a university. The course content matters, but the institution’s reputation, resources, and support system will shape your entire experience.
At JLT, we’ve built our entire model around making this transition smooth for people who’ve never worked in travel before. Our training academy takes you through 15 comprehensive modules covering everything from ATOL protection to booking systems. You’re not thrown in at the deep end.
What Actually Matters in Your First 30 Days
Get Proper Training (Not Just Theory)
Your host agency should provide structured, practical training that covers:
- How travel licensing works (ATOL, PTS, IATA)
- Booking systems and supplier access
- Client communication and compliance
- Building quotes and handling payments
Our JLT Academy covers all this through video modules, activities, and real booking scenarios. You’re not learning theory — you’re learning how to actually run a travel business.
Access Real Suppliers
This is where many new agents get caught out. Some host agencies promise access to suppliers but give you inferior rates or limited options.
Look for agencies that work with major tour operators (TUI, Jet2, easyJet holidays) plus specialist suppliers for cruises, villas, and niche travel. At JLT, our agents have access to 200+ suppliers, including flight consolidators and accommodation providers.
Join a Genuine Community
Starting any business can feel isolating. The difference between agents who thrive and those who quit often comes down to community support.
This means active WhatsApp groups where you can ask questions, weekly Q&A sessions with experienced agents, and a team that actually responds when you need help. Our agents regularly say the community aspect is what keeps them motivated during the learning phase.
The Foundation You Need (Before You Touch a Booking)
Financial Protection Understanding
Before you book anything for anyone, you need to understand how client money is protected. This isn’t optional — it’s legal compliance.
Your host agency should operate under ATOL protection and PTS (Protected Trust Services) membership. This means client payments go into a secure trust account, not your personal bank account.
At JLT, we’re PTS members (PTS6090) with our own ATOL license (12564). Your clients’ money is protected from day one, and you don’t need to worry about merchant accounts or payment processing.
Commission Structure Clarity
Understand exactly how you’ll be paid and when. Some agencies start new agents on poor commission splits or hold payments until after clients travel.
We offer an 80/20 commission split from your first booking, and commissions are paid weekly once your clients have paid in full. No waiting around for months to see your earnings.
Your Own Brand Permission
Many host agencies require you to use their branding exclusively. This limits your ability to build something that feels personal to your clients.
JLT agents can operate under their own brand while being “powered by The JLT Group.” Your business cards, website, and client communications can reflect your personality and expertise.
Common First-Step Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Joining the cheapest option without researching support levels
Mistake 2: Assuming you need travel experience before applying
Mistake 3: Focusing on commission rates while ignoring training quality
Mistake 4: Choosing based on flashy marketing rather than agent testimonials
The agencies with the biggest marketing budgets aren’t always the ones with the best agent support. Look for genuine testimonials from agents who’ve been with the company for 6+ months.
Why This Matters for Your Future
Getting the first step right sets the foundation for everything that follows. Choose poorly, and you’ll spend months feeling confused, unsupported, and questioning whether this industry is right for you.
Choose well, and you’ll have the confidence to book your first holiday within weeks, the knowledge to handle client questions professionally, and the community support to keep growing.
Our agents regularly tell us that the training and community support are what made the difference between giving up and building a successful travel business. Some have gone from complete beginners to booking £100k+ in their first year.
Still wondering if this could work for you? Join our Facebook group to see real agent conversations and success stories.
