Are you interested in working from home to run your business? With this article, you can learn how to start a travel agency and take advantage of all the benefits of doing your own business, including having a flexible schedule and being able to work as much or as little as you like.
Steps
Step 1. Check state and local regulations to start a travel agency
Depending on where you live, you may need to present documents in order to legally work from home. You will need to prepare the documentation required to become a freelancer in your state.
Step 2. Write your business plan
This will provide you with a solid foundation, and will help you get funding from potential investors if you need additional capital to start your project.
Step 3. Open two bank accounts
An account should be for your independent travel agency business, where you keep track of the funds that go in and out for your business. The money of your customers who book their trips goes into the other account.
Step 4. Choose the type of travel agency you want to start
You can set up the business by referring to other large agencies, earning a percentage for your services, or you can manage your specific bookings and sales of travel packages.
Step 5. Contact various travel companies to negotiate travel arrangements to offer your clients or to determine what kind of commissions you can earn
If you deal with more companies you can offer more services to your customers, but it could also cost you more.
Step 6. Join companies and organizations specifically targeting travel agents
These organizations can increase your visibility, as well as your credibility as an agent. You can join the Italian Federation of Travel and Tourism Business Associations (FIAVET), the Italian Travel Agencies Association (Assoviaggi), or the International Air Transport Association (IATA). If you can, join all 3 to boost your business.
Step 7. Contact a travel agency who can liaise between airlines, cruise lines and accommodations
With these links, you can have more time to make more connections in the industry.
Advice
- As an independent travel agent, you can choose from several specialties. Research what you think is best in your area before choosing your specific industry. As a home travel agency, you may focus solely on cruises, vacation rentals, luxury travel, or standard travel by specializing in flight and hotel bookings.
- Consider taking some management courses so you can gain more knowledge and professionalism on how to start and maintain your business more effectively. You can find these courses nationally or locally and also online. All costs incurred to enroll or participate in these courses are tax deductible as expenses related to your profession.
- Starting a travel agency requires little or no experience. You don't need any special license or certification.
