Become a Travel Advisor | An Honest Look at the Role

From time to time, people ask how I got started as a travel advisor—and whether it’s something they could do themselves. If you’re curious about the role, this page is meant to give you a realistic overview and point you toward next steps if it feels like a fit.

This isn’t a sales pitch. It’s information.

Man at desk looking at information on a computer screen.
What Being a Travel Advisor Is (and Isn’t)

Being a travel advisor today is less about booking flights and more about planning, problem-solving, and client relationships. Advisors help travelers make sense of options, avoid costly mistakes, and design trips that actually fit how they want to travel.

It is-

  • Client-facing, detail-oriented work

  • Relationship-driven, not transactional

  • A business you build over time

It is not-

  • Passive income

  • A shortcut to free travel

  • A “set it and forget it” side hustle

People who do well tend to enjoy research, logistics, and helping others make decisions—with patience and professionalism.

How Independent Travel Advisors Typically Work

Most independent travel advisors partner with a host agency. The host provides:

  • Industry credentials and supplier access

  • Booking tools and support

  • Training and mentorship

  • Commission processing

Advisors run their own businesses, set their own focus, and build their own client base, while the host agency handles the back-end infrastructure.

This is the model I use for my own business.

Travel advisor guiding clients through group trip planning.
Why I’m Sharing This Here

I don’t actively recruit, but I do believe in being transparent. If you’re already thinking about becoming a travel advisor and are looking for reputable ways to get started, I’m happy to share resources and explain what’s worked for me.


If you choose to move forward using my referral link, I may receive a financial benefit from the host agency. There’s no added cost to you, and no obligation—just full disclosure. Please enter my name (Matthew Tabakman) when asked who referred you.

Is This a Good Fit for You?

This path tends to work best if you:

  • Enjoy planning and research

  • Are comfortable guiding others through decisions

  • Like running a small business (even part-time)

  • Are patient while things grow

If you’re looking for something fast, effortless, or guaranteed, this likely isn’t it—and that’s okay.