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Which travel host agency is best? 6 things to consider when choosing a host agency.

• February 23, 2023
• Pickles Travel Network

Are you considering a career as a travel agent and thinking about getting started with a host agency? Whether you’re just starting your search or you’re deep into the host agency reviews already, there are a few important things to think about when choosing the right host for you.

Keep in mind, choosing a host agency is a personal decision, and there’s no “best” agency out there for everyone. Selecting a host will ultimately depend on where you want to go in the industry, how much support you need, and what matters most to you.

If you’re not sure what a host agency for travel agents is or if you should consider signing up with one, consider reading our post, “What is a host agency for travel agents?” before reading on. Today we’ll explore the key factors that set host agencies apart and help you select the right host agency for you!

Note, this post is meant to be informative as you choose the right travel host for you. Under each tip, we’ve included a bit about Pickles Travel Network – that’s us! To learn more, see what’s included as a PTN agent . 

1. Consider whether or not you want to operate under your own brand name when choosing a host agency.

There are two main ways to start your travel business, depending on the type of host you choose. First, you can become an agent under an existing brand, which means you’ll use their name, logo, and company image as you build your clientele. Under certain host agencies, this is required, and you’ll pay a yearly fee to essentially create a franchise under the host’s brand.

The second option is to join a host agency that lets you operate under your own brand name. You’ll still get access to the suppliers, resources, and credentials of your host, but you’ll have complete creative control over your business name, your niche, and your marketing. If creating your own brand is important to you, it’s essential to ask potential host agencies if they require you to use any of their branding or stay within any creative guidelines.

At Pickles Travel Network, agents have 100% creative freedom to build their own brands. We do not require agents to use any of our branded materials or even mention us to clients. We are a true “white label” host agency. 

2. Get familiar with the commission splits a host agency offers, and determine any requirements for higher commissions.

Every host agency offers agents their own commission splits, and there’s a huge range within the travel industry. As a general rule of thumb, you should always aim for at least a 60% commission when operating under a host agency, which means you get to keep 60% of the commission you earn.

Not only do host agencies offer various commission splits, but the requirements to access each commission split can vary as well. The most common requirement is sales thresholds. For example, you might start at a 50% commission when you sign up, but if you reach $250,000 in sales that year, you’ll be eligible for a 60% commission the following year.

Other host agencies let you choose your commission split from the time you sign up, usually with an increased signup fee or recurring flat fee. These host agencies offer the most flexibility, as you can sell as little or as much as you want to without worrying about sales quotas or delay periods for increased commissions.

At Pickles Travel Network, agents can choose between 70%, 80%, and 90% commission when they sign up. There are no sales requirements or other conditions – only flat monthly or annual payments for unlimited commissions. Commission splits are eligible to be updated once per year on the anniversary of your signup. 

3. Decide on your focus, then choose a host agency that shares values, priorities, and areas of interest with you.

Host agencies come in all varieties: those that specialize in Disney, those that are strictly for seven-figure sales agents, those that have a little bit of everything, those that have a super-involved community, and those with little personalization at all.

With all the options out there, starting by exploring every available host agency can be more confusing than it is productive. Instead, choose what’s most important to you first, then look for host agencies that fit the mold. In general, here are a few things to consider:

• Bigger host agencies (3,000+ agents) tend to have the most supplier relationships and can have better commission deals, but might offer less in terms of personalization and community support.
• Host agencies geared towards new travel agents likely have lots of training, support, and resources, but if you plan to become a seven-figure agency within a few years, you could outgrow what they have to offer.
• If you do have a specific niche in mind (ex: Disney vacations, family travel, cruising) you might want to consider a host agency that specializes in this area to best support you.
• Don’t neglect personal values. Ultimately, host agencies are made up of people, and you want to find people you resonate with and are excited to grow alongside.

Pickles Travel Network is a woman-owned travel host agency that focuses on simple, modern solutions for travel agents. We provide our 300+ agents with the tools, resources, and training they need to succeed in the travel industry, and emphasize building a supportive community of agents. Our agency structure makes it easy for new or experienced agents to start their travel businesses and scale them as quickly and immensely as they’d like. 

4. Determine if a host agency allows subagents if you plan to grow your team.

If your plan is to stay a solo travel agent long-term, you can skip this one. But if you’re even considering growing a team of travel agents in the future, it’s important to choose a host agency that will let you add subagents. Some host agencies don’t permit subagent signups, meaning if you have another agent or two you want to partner with, they will have to pay the regular startup fee, recurring fees, and won’t be able to split their commissions with you by default.

If a host agency does allow subagents, they might offer a reduced payment to enroll your subagents and will group your subagents under you when it comes time to pay commissions. This means you would be able to set your own commission rates for yourself and your team, which is crucial when working under a host. Many travel agents just getting started think they’ll want to travel solo forever, but later decide they want to expand into an agency model. If you want the flexibility to decide later, or if you’ve always envisioned growing your team, double-check that your potential host allows subagents and has a system in place for them.

At Pickles Travel Network, subagents are permitted and pay a reduced monthly or annual fee of their choosing. Subagents don’t choose their commission splits when they sign up – you as the agency owner will determine your subagents’ commission splits. 

5. Find out who a host agency is affiliated with before making your decision.

Ultimately, the travel industry is about relationships. One of the biggest perks of signing up with a host agency is getting access to their relationships with suppliers, vendors, training programs, and other tools for travel agents. It’s important to get to know who a host agency has relationships with when making your selection.

Inquire about a host agency’s suppliers, partnerships, and affiliate programs when comparing your options. You can even approach things from the other direction, and ask travel experts whose opinions you trust which hosts they recommend. Choosing the least expensive host or the host who shows up first on Google might not always be the best choice. People know people best, and as an agent of a host agency, you’re stepping into their network of relationships and taking on a piece of their reputation. Your decision matters – give it the attention it deserves.

Pickles Travel Network has partnerships, and sometimes exclusive partnerships, with many of the industry’s best. In addition to our network of suppliers and resources, we offer our agents a list of preferred partners in every area from marketing to travel education. Many of our partners offer members-only deals to Pickles Travel Network agents. 

6. Understand what you’re actually paying for when deciding if a host agency is “affordable” or “expensive.”

In the world of host agencies, there’s a wide range of signup costs, annual fees, commission splits, and pay structures. Even if one host appears “more expensive” than another, it’s worth looking into what you’re actually paying for. Some things that might be included with the cost of signing up with a host agency that every travel agent needs are…

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
• Itinerary and planning software
• Errors & Omissions insurance
• Lead generation tools
• Travel agent training programs
• Membership with a travel consortia

All of these tools are essential for running a successful travel business. If they’re not included in the cost of your host agency membership, you must factor in the cost of them separately when choosing a host.

Pickles Travel Network membership includes the following tools and subscriptions for agents and subagents upon signup. 

• VacationCRM ($50/month value)
• Travefy itinerary management ($39/month value)
• Travel Leaders Network membership with lead generation (amount varies) 

Choosing the right host agency is a decision that only you can make, and can be one of the greatest decisions of your career!

The world of travel has so many incredible learning opportunities and great people to meet. We’re so excited for you to begin or further your career as a travel agent and wish you the very best of luck.

Meet Pickles Travel Network: The Host Agency That Makes It Easy to Start and Scale Your Travel Business

Whether you’ve just started your travel agent journey, or you’ve been on it… Pickles Travel Network has the tools and resources to help grow your business. Unlike other host agencies, we believe in letting our members choose what works best for their business. Pickles Travel Network allows you to choose your commission rate, along with whether or not you want to charge planning fees. As a member, you’ll receive instant access to our list of suppliers, several marketing platforms and monthly coaching/trainings. 

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IATA | CLIA Membership

Ptn iatan code: 45769253, ptn clia number: 00032299.

When you enroll with suppliers, you must use PTN’s codes to receive a commission from us. Want to sign up for your own CLIA or IATA numbers for exclusive travel benefits? See below.

Get your own IATA/IATAN ID Card:

The IATA/IATAN ID Card is the industry-standard credential to identify bona fide travel professionals. Key benefits include access to concessionary incentives from industry suppliers. The IATA MemberPerks program provides cardholders with daily savings at over 300,000 merchants across North America.

To be eligible, you must register with IATAN under PTN’s IATA number 45769253, work a minimum of 20 hours per week, and earn a minimum of $5,000 per annum in commissions. You’ll need to send PTN a support ticket asking for approval. Once approved, we will send you a PRIN # to allow you to register with IATAN and ask for an ID card.

Get your own CLIA EMBARK ID:

Obtain a CLIA EMBARC ID for travel discounts and FAM (Familiarization) trips. Join CLIA as an Individual Agent Member under Pickles Travel Network CLIA #00032299.

To be eligible, you must work at least 20 hours per week and earn a minimum of $5,000 per annum in commissions. Once you’ve registered, submit a support ticket to let us know, and we will approve your registration.

Please select the option that best describes you for more information.

The Top Host Agencies for 2022 (Video) – Travel Professionals Guide to the Best of the Best

FindaHostTravelAgency.com Shares the Top Host Agencies for 2022

Further assisting in connecting travel professionals to the right host travel agency.

March 14th, 2021 – Peoria, AZ – FindaHostTravelAgency.com has released a list of the Top  Host Travel Agencies of 2022. The 2022 Top Host Travel Agency video (above) highlights Recommended Host Agencies on  FindaHostTravelAgency.com .

Each Recommended Host Agency in the 2022 Top  Host Travel Agency video represent credible options for Travel Professionals searching for a Host Agency partner. All are extremely reputable and show a strong focus on providing the support and services to enable their networks of Independent Agents to build and grow their travel businesses.

“The Top Host Agencies in 2022 continue to show support and empowerment of the Home Based Travel Professional, even through a global pandemic. This years production of the Top Host Agencies for 2022 was exciting to undertake with our completely new video format and design.” shared Andy Ogg, CTIE – Co-Owner of FindaHostTravelAgency.com.

FindaHostTravelAgency.com offers a complete listing of available Host Agencies on the site, as well as nearly 2,300  Host Agency Reviews  from credible Travel Agents who have  or are currently working with a specific Host Agency. “We manually vet every single one of our review submissions ensuring that they are not only credible, but relevant and timely to further assist Travel Professionals when researching their possible Host Agency partners,” said Andy Ogg, CTIE.

On top of the 2022 Top Host Agency video, FindaHostTravelAgency.com also offers a highly downloaded Host Agency Checklist , geared to help Travel Professionals stay organized while conducting their Host Agency Search.

Additionally, the site offers an extensive Filtering system for things such as if leads are offered, consortia memberships, association memberships, years in business, annual sales volume, education programs, website tools and much more, Travel Professionals looking for a Host Agency can easily refine their search in minutes, not hours.

On top of the useful Host Agency Filter Function, there are useful and informative  articles  published frequently on FindaHostTravelAgency.com to further educate and empower Travel Professionals to find the perfect fit with a Host Travel Agency.

FindaHostTravelAgency.com is one of many industry tools available through Ogg Marketing Group to advocate Travel Professionals and help them become more successful.

Host Agencies that would like to update or add their profile to the FindaHostTravelAgency.com site can visit www.FindaHostTravelAgency.com to do so. If a Host Agency Profile already exists for your business, please contact Andy Ogg for details on how to successfully access the Host Agency Portal to update your profile information.

2022 Top Host Agencies Outlined:

Avoya travel, outside agents, uniglobe travel center, travel planners international, nexion travel group, incentive connection travel, dugan’s travels, cruise planners.

About the Ogg Family:

The family business is owned and operated by Tom Ogg, Joanie Ogg, CTC, MCC, and Andy Ogg, CTIE. On top of resourceful books for Travel Professionals, the Ogg family also owns and operates:

FindaHostTravelAgency.com

The premier platform to connect Travel Professionals to the Host Travel Agency that fits their needs. On top of 16 filters to narrow the search, FindaHostTravelAgency.com holds over 2,300 reviews from vetted Travel Professionals regarding listed Host Travel Agencies.

TravelProfessionalNEWS.com

A top source for news regarding the Travel Industry and Travel Professionals, TravelProfessionalNEWS.com offers an elaborate, yet easy to use, website full of content, free downloads, resources and education to empower the Travel Professional to success. Monthly features allow readers to engage with timely and valuable content, while still focusing on education.

HomeBasedTravelAgent.com

Since 1988 this has been an invaluable resource with extensive information for new agents wanting to enter the industry. The Ogg’s latest books are considered “must reads” for many home based travel agents. They are used by many colleges and universities as texts and are included in the Travel Institute’s “Trip Kit” for new agents.

2022 Top Host Agency Video Link:

https://youtu.be/pLKNyiYb5_E 

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How to Find the Best Travel Agent Host Agency

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora travel.

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/travel-agent-host-agency

Excellent support, great partners, high-tech (but user-friendly) tools, commission splits, training and more…a lot of things go into a top-tier travel agent host agency. If you’re on your way to becoming an independent travel agent , one of the first things you’ll do is find a host agency to work with. This guide breaks down all the benefits and things to look for in the best travel agencies.

What is a travel agent host agency?

Travel agent host agencies — or simply, host agencies — are essentially a company that provides support and resources to support your business as a travel advisor. 

Offerings differ from host agency to host agency, but you can expect training, administration resources, a commission split structure (learn how travel agent commissions work), preferred partner affiliation and more. 

How do host travel agencies work? What exactly do they do?

When you work with a host agency, think of them as a resource for your small business. As an independent travel advisor, you’ll still make your own schedule and manage most other aspects of your business. 

The host agency is there to set you up with the resources, infrastructure and tools you need to run your business. This can range from providing access to an IATA number (saving you a lot of legal paperwork) down to commission tracking and payments (although it’s worth noting that not all host agencies provide this type of payment service… more on that below). 

Host agencies offer independent travel advisors the support and scale of a larger business affiliation

Working with a host agency means that your small business also has the scale of a larger business affiliation. Since host travel agencies are made up of a network of lots of travel advisors, travel partners will see bookings coming in from other advisors within your host agency network. This means that your clients will benefit from that booking volume and name recognition. 

In addition, it means most travel agent host agencies have the resources and bargaining power to partner with top supplier brands around the world, helping to facilitate preferred partner programs and perks. Rather than having to create individual agreements with the thousands of hotel groups and other suppliers around the world, a travel advisor can work with a host agency to take advantage of its pre-existing partnerships. Many of these partnerships require a minimum amount of bookings, which are often only attainable with the scale a host agency can provide. 

At Fora, we’re part of every major preferred partner program , ranging from Four Seasons Preferred to Virtuoso , as well as our own in-house program, Fora Reserve. 

8 benefits of working with (& things to look for in) a host agency

When looking for the best travel agency, consider the benefits and things to look for that we’ve listed below. 

1. The travel agent host agency offers comprehensive training

The best host agencies to work for provide in-depth travel agent classes that cover everything from the basics of booking a hotel to advanced itinerary planning and more. Especially if you’re new to the industry, you’ll want a host agency with a robust training curriculum. It’s worth noting that working as a travel advisor is an ongoing learning process (there are endless destinations to learn about, after all), so you’ll want to find a host agency that has ongoing training for every stage of your career. 

At Fora, we offer a comprehensive, 30-day certification and travel agent training that is online and you can take at your own pace. The initial certification program sets you up with everything you need to kickstart your business. Then, we have ongoing destination and supplier spotlights each week, as well as an advanced certification program. We are also introducing badges to learn about specific subsets, such as marketing yourself, becoming a cruise travel agent and more. And every year, we host Live Forum , an in-person summit to help you level up your travel advisor business.  

Read more: How to Become a Travel Agent Online: Fora's Full Guide

2. It has the preferred partnerships you’re looking for

If you have specific properties in mind that you want to book for clients, you’ll want to make sure that your host agency has the right partnerships to make those bookings. As a travel advisor, you’ll be able to book the same properties pretty much anywhere — but host agencies will be part of different preferred partner programs (or sometimes, not in those preferred partnerships). 

For background, top-tier host travel agencies are typically partnered with dozens or hundreds of reputable suppliers around the world, from destination management companies to hotel groups and more. These partnerships are often invitation-only, and allow an agency’s travel advisors to offer an extensive variety of travel perks and other benefits. For example, if you have a client who wants to book at a Rosewood property, you’ll want an agency that is part of Rosewood Elite so that you can offer your clients perks like room upgrades, spa credits and more. 

Preferred partnership programs also often come with increased commissions, so you’ll earn more by booking through an agency that is part of a preferred program. 

Fora is part of every major preferred partnership program . We also have Fora Reserve, our in-house preferred partnership program. Fora Reserve is made up of many smaller and independent hotels, as well as a wider variety of lifestyle options you can offer your clients. 

In addition to preferred partnership programs, you’ll also want to think about networking opportunities. Connecting with travel professionals at the brands you’re excited about is a great way to help build relationships so that you can VIP your clients. You’ll want to find a host agency that prioritizes networking opportunities, for example. 

The best host agencies will set up meetings between travel advisors and suppliers. This grants advisors firsthand knowledge of partner programs and offerings, allowing them to better serve their clients. We facilitate both online and in real life connections for our network of advisors. 

3. It has a fair commission split, and (ideally) offers commission tracking & payment 

When you work with a host agency, you’ll split your commission with your agency. A host agency is able to offer the resources and framework of a host agency because of this business model that is a win/win for advisors & agencies. The gist of it is that by working with a host agency, you’ll share a small portion of your commission with your agency in exchange for all of the business tools that the agency offers you. (Learn more about how travel agents get paid ).

Different host agencies have different commission splits, depending on their business model. It’s tempting to compare a 60/40 split or 70/30 split on the surface, but keep in mind that there’s more that meets the eye. For example, if the host agency is part of a preferred partnership program that offers higher commissions, then your earnings as an advisor could still be higher (even if you technically have a lower commission split than at another agency). 

Another factor to consider is how the host agency handles commission tracking and payments. Many host agencies expect their travel advisors to do this on their own. This is a lot of paperwork, invoicing, and often, follow-ups. At Fora, we handle all of the commission tracking and payments for our advisors, so you can focus on more of the fun stuff: travel planning. 

4. The host travel agency provides the tools you need

As a small business owner, there are a lot of tools you’ll need to run your day-to-day business. Some host agencies offer a lot of resources, and some are very hands-off. 

These are also business expenses to keep in mind... (Get more in our guide: How much does it cost to become a travel agent ?). As with any business, there are many things you’ll need to invest in to start and maintain a travel agent career . Look at the full costs of your business and what you’ll need to run it. Make a plan before you start shopping for a host agency so you have an idea of what you want to prioritize. Then, look at the full package of everything you get. You don’t want to piecemeal a bunch of different things (and expenses) together to launch your business.

The best travel agencies to work for provide a significant amount of assistance in this regard. The tools they provide don’t just save you time; they save you money, too.

We offer a one-stop shop of everything you’ll need to run your travel advisor business as part of a flat monthly fee. When you join, you’ll have access to your Advisor Portal — an all-in-one platform experience with bookings & client data management, marketing tools and templates, our entire training curriculum and more. Plus, we know that as a travel advisor, you’re often on-the-go, so Fora’s Portal is designed to work just as well from your smartphone as it does from your laptop. 

Some of our favorite tech tools include an easy and secure way to store client information , and our  integrated booking platform .

Find a host agency that has comprehensive offerings of everything you’ll want in your business suite.

6. It fits your lifestyle

Look for an agency that aligns with your business goals and lifestyle. If you’re looking to work part-time or you are just starting out and ramping up your business, a host agency with a high booking minimum likely isn’t right for you. If you’re looking to learn on-the-go, you’ll also want one with a flexible training program that you can take online. 

We do not have booking quotas or sales minimums at Fora. We have both in-person and online training programs that you can take at your own pace. 

7. The agency will help you grow your business 

The best travel agencies to work with are there to help you build your business. They are available for ongoing career development, mentorship opportunities and offer the support and resources you need. 

Marketing is a big part of how a host agency can support their advisors. Whether it’s providing marketing assets to make it easier to promote your business or a professional landing page online, there are a lot of ways that a host agency can support your business growth. Learn more about how Fora helps our advisors build their book of business .

8. The host agency has an inclusive & collaborative culture

Being an 'IC' (independent contractor) at a host agency can be a pretty lonely experience. As a travel advisor, you’re often working remotely, and this means it can be easy to miss the social aspect of work. The best agencies facilitate a welcoming atmosphere built around cooperation, with advisors sharing tips and intel in a way that benefits everyone.

We have a highly collaborative and community-driven approach at Fora, but don’t just take our word for it… 

"I chose Fora because it's an inclusive community,” Fora Advisor Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin said. “Fora fosters and nurtures its newest agents and provides mentorship that encourages growth and meeting your maximum potential as an advisor.” 

“I showed up with no previous travel industry experience, but a commitment to learning everything I could,” Alexandra continued.“ Fora gave me the tools that empower me to create my own unique travel business, and enables me to share my point of view with my clients while also continuously learning from all the members of its diverse community."

• Boutique Travel ,
• Couples Travel ,
• Food & Wine ,

When you join Fora, you’ll get access to Forum, our community app . You’ll immediately be able to connect with fellow travel lovers and advisors who are there to cheer you along every step of the way. We also have local Chapters for in-person connections .

What makes Fora one of the best travel agencies to work with?

In addition to offering all of the benefits mentioned above, read more about the reasons to become a Fora Advisor from our advisors themselves.

Connect with Fora to join a travel agent host agency that sets you up for success

Ready to start your travel advisor career? Apply to become a Fora Advisor today .

Travel agent host agency FAQs

Read on for answers to a few general questions about travel agent host agencies.

Do host travel agencies cost money?

It depends on the host agency. It is not uncommon to have fees associated with joining a host agency, and the framework will differ from agency to agency. Some do not charge a fee to join, but they do have strict sales quotas that you must meet annually in order to stay affiliated with the host agency. Others are technically free but they have costly training programs that are required. Each host agency is different.

At Fora, we have a membership fee with an approachable monthly cost to provide you with everything you need to run your travel advisor business. There are no booking or sales quotas. 

Does a travel agent need a host agency?

You don’t need a host agency, but having one makes the life of a travel advisor much easier. (Otherwise, you might ask if being a travel agent is worth it .) Most independent travel advisors work with a host agency.

As a travel agent, how do I join a host agency?

Find a host agency that you like, and then take the next steps to join that agency. 

Some host agencies may require prior travel agent education . But this is increasingly uncommon, and most offer in-house training of some sort.

At Fora, to get started, you apply to become a Fora Advisor . The process is relatively straightforward: you’ll submit your email and complete our application to share more about yourself. Once your application is accepted, sign up for one of our membership plans.

More travel advisor resources

Looking for more travel advisor resources? Check out these guides, too:

6 of the Best Remote Jobs for Moms, from Writer to Travel Advisor  

How to Market Yourself as a Travel Agent 101  

How To Build a Sales Funnel as a Travel Advisor  

How to Become a Cruise Travel Agent (It's Easier Than You Think)  

Room Blocks 101: Mastering the Art of Group Bookings  

Debunking 3 Myths about Becoming a Travel Advisor  

5 Types of Bookings You Can Make as a Fora Advisor (That Aren’t Hotels!)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

We empower anyone with a passion for travel to transform it into meaningful revenue. Sign up to become a travel advisor today.

Hey there, future Rockstar! Give us a call now to get started: 1-800-730-6392

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Partner with a Host with the Most

When you make a host travel agencies comparison, it’s easy to see that here at TPI, we’ve got it going on. Our level of support, unparalleled technology, family atmosphere, fun vibe, and our supplier connections, make us the top choice in host travel agencies. We have over 5,000 Rockstar agents who love what they do and make more money than if they were operating alone.

Why Not Just Partner with a Consortia Myself?

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What About an MLM? Why Don’t I Just Go That Route?

Belonging to a multi-level-marketing travel agency group may sound enticing, but you don’t get a whole lot in return for all your hard work. You pretty much just get to be a part of a group and don’t get the support and technology we offer at TPI.

Rockstar Success Stories

I started my career like many others, with big dreams and a passion for travel. I opened my business in 2010 as an independent agent — working on my own trying to take on the world. After finding a mentor in the industry, I was introduced to the idea of host agencies. I worked with several host agencies over the years, but joining TPI in 2012 was the best move for my business.

Steven Gould Goulds Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a host travel agency.

A host agency is a powerful resource for support, tools, and training for home-based travel agents. With TPI, you are never alone. Our experts and community of travel agency owners alike are here to support you and grow with you.

What is the best travel host agency?

The best travel host agency sets up their travel agents for success. At TPI, we provide marketing tools, community support, a way to get the most of your commission amount, and more! We are obsessed with your success, and we empower your growth as a small business owner.

What is a host agency for travel agents?

A host agency is a company for independent home-based travel agents to work with. The host agency provides resources and support to help travel agents be successful.

Can you be a travel agent without a host agency?

Yes, but working with a host agency will make a difference, especially when it comes to how much you earn. We negotiate with travel partners on your behalf so you earn the highest commission possible. We help you navigate your industry training and build your skills as you build your small business.

How do travel agencies choose a host?

As you search for a host agency, look into how long they have been in business, what training and support they offer, how they help you generate leads, and how commissions work. Go into your search knowing what is important to you. We provide you with a community and everything you need for success so you’re never alone.

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Selecting the Top Host Agencies for Home-Based Travel Agents: A Comprehensive Guide

May 13, 2024

Welcome to the exciting realm of travel! Whether you're a newcomer aiming to start as a home-based travel agent or an experienced professional seeking to enhance your business model, choosing an ideal host agency is pivotal. This guide will highlight key factors in selecting a host agency that supports your growth and success in this industry.

Understanding Host Agencies

Host agencies partner with home-based travel agents, providing essential support, resources, and tools, allowing you to focus more on client relations and sales. These agencies help with accreditation, marketing, and technology, which are crucial for running a successful travel business.

Benefits of Choosing a Host Agency

Partnering with a host agency offers significant advantages:

- Access to Licensing and Accreditation: Simplifies compliance with industry regulations.

- Enhanced Credibility: Increases your trustworthiness to customers and suppliers.

- Back-end Support: Manages bookings, invoicing, and payments.

- Training and Professional Development: Keeps you updated with the latest industry trends and technology.

- Marketing and Lead Generation: Provides tools and services to help expand your clientele.

Choosing the Right Host Agency

Consider these essential factors when selecting a host agency:

1. Commission Split and Fees

Understand the commission structure and any associated fees to ensure transparency and fairness in what you earn and pay.

2. Technology and Tools

Evaluate the booking and CRM tools provided to ensure they streamline your operations and improve customer interactions.

3. Support and Training

Look for an agency offering comprehensive training and resources to foster your growth and competitiveness.

4. Preferred Supplier Relationships

Assess the agency’s connections with travel service providers, which can lead to better deals for your clients and higher commissions for you.

5. Reviews and Reputation

Research and consider feedback from other agents to gauge the reputation of the agency.

Spotlight on Gateway Travel

Gateway Travel excels as a host agency for several reasons:

- Transparent Commissions and Fees: Clear, straightforward pricing with no hidden costs.

- Advanced Technology: Tailored booking and CRM tools that enhance efficiency.

- Continuous Training and Support: Access to ongoing educational resources to stay ahead in the industry.

- Strong Supplier Partnerships: Relationships that offer exclusive deals and benefits.

- Outstanding Reviews: Consistent positive feedback, underscoring our commitment and professionalism.

Blogging Tips for Travel Industry Enthusiasts

If you're looking to share your journey and insights as a home-based travel agent, consider these blog ideas:

- A Day in the Life: Offer a glimpse into your daily activities and routines.

- Travel Tips and Destinations: Share unique insights and spotlight exciting locales.

- Success Stories: Discuss your achievements and hurdles to inspire and guide newcomers.

- Industry Trends: Keep your audience informed about the latest developments.

Choosing the right host agency is crucial for your success as a home-based travel agent. By considering the outlined factors and aligning with a supportive agency like Gateway Travel, you're on the path to a prosperous career in travel. Ready to join us and make your mark in the travel industry? Let’s succeed together!

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Perfect Match: Finding the Best Host Agency Partner

Written by: KHM Staff on February 14, 2024

By: Anita Pagliasso, Vice President of Industry Relations

Most home-based travel agents who choose to work with a host agency do so because they find it is easier to accomplish their goals and earn a higher income rather than trying to make it on their own. But finding the best host agency can be as challenging as finding your perfect soulmate. 

Make a list of your specialties, areas of expertise, and the type of business that you want to focus on. Confirm that the host agency is compatible to accepting your type of business and can support the needs of your client database.

Use Internet to help do your homework. Compare commission structures, upfront fees, and benefits. If you are brand new to the travel industry you will probably need a mentor, a lot of support, and a host agency that has an education program in place. If you are an experienced travel consultant , look for a company that can support your growing business, pay higher commission, and offer perks that you could not attain on your own.

Mix n’ Match

Make sure that the agency has the right balance of benefits.

• Do they belong to a consortium?
• Do they pay commissions timely?
• Do they offer bonus commission and booking incentives?
• What kind of ongoing education is offered?
• What type of database management system (if any) is included?
• Do they provide ways to connect with other travel agents?
• What industry associations do they belong to?
• How long have they been in business?
• If there are start-up fees, what do they include?

Prevent fires in advance by asking to see a copy of the host agency’s independent contractor agreement. Ask if they have an Errors and Omissions insurance policy. You can always check with the Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General’s office to see if any complaints have been filed against them. 

Match Maker

Ask for recommendations from other agents that you meet at supplier and networking events. Or explore a website like Host Agency Reviews or Fynd Travel . Nothing explains more about a host agency than firsthand testimonials from agents.

Meet your (Best Host Agency) Match

Whenever possible, it would be ideal to set up a meeting to personally talk with the host agency. Reading up on a host agency is great, but does not always portray the expressions and enthusiasm you would get in a personal one-on-one call or live chat.

Match Point!

The final point to a winning business relationship is that it should feel like a mutually rewarding association. The company you select should be as excited about your eagerness to learn and grow as you are…after all, in the end you will both share in the success of your business.

Is becoming a travel agent with KHM Travel Group the right fit for you? Contact us at 888-611-1220 or send us a message to learn more!

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The Hosted Travel Advisor Research Report Summary, 2024

2024 marks the 8th year since we began running our Travel Advisor Survey, providing you all with in-depth travel advisor reports on the latest trends in income, fees, and more. And wow have these reports come a long way since! Every year, we say this is our best report ever, and every year I mean it! (Enter refrain . . .) 

This is our best report ever! Why?

This year we've investigated new topics including travel advisor technology usage and media consumption . But don't take my word for it. Here's a preview of the table of contents for our 2024 Hosted Travel Advisor Report so you can witness the breadth and depth of our data in its full glory. 

Another thing that makes this report the best one ever is that after years of a recovery slog, I am happy to say that our data indicate that you hard-working travel advisors have edged ahead of 2019 pre-pandemic income levels by 2% ($52,636 vs. $51,723). That's right, you can go ahead and consider yourself recovered and hopefully the C-word will never come up in an income report again. 

In this summary, I'll give you the broad strokes of results for our 90+ page report. Here's what to expect.

How Travel Industry Pros Can Use HAR's Data

• Agency Owners

Hosts & Consortia

Suppliers, dmos, and dmcs.

• Travel Tech Companies

The Hosted Travel Advisor, 2024: Report Summary

• About HAR's survey

A note on how we look at income in our full report

Executive summary.

• Full-time vs. part-time hosted advisors

Growth for new hosted advisors enjoys a steeper trajectory

Gratitude  

Something for Everyone: How Travel Industry Professionals Can Use HAR's Data

There's a lot of data in our 70+ page research report. We have a few ideas on how you can leverage it to glean insights most relevant to your corner of the industry.  Here's a few shortcuts with tips on how to use the report data depending on where you're positioned in the industry:

Agency Owners (SOLO & those with ICs and/or employees)

Agencies and their advisors are at the heart of HAR's Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024 . Regardless of the size of your agency—whether you're a solo advisor or have dozens (or hundreds) of ICs and/or employees—the report is rife with data for advisors at all stages of the game, from starting up to scaling big.

All solo advisors can:

• Benchmark personal sales and income against current averages, taking into account niche, experience, hours worked, and more
• Use the data to project future sales and income goals
• Gain an understanding of income potential (or average income) by niche and product
• See where their average sales per booking falls compared to the industry at large
• Make data-backed decisions on fee amounts by comparing to industry averages
• Use demographic and regional data to see what can set an advisor apart in terms of client reach
• Compare their host agency commission split to the latest industry standards
• Find the travel tech that most advisors are using

In addition to all things listed above, new advisors can also:

• Gain an understanding of what to expect in terms of startup costs
• Uncover the typical earnings for their first few years in business
• Use the data to inform their business plan
• Use the data to help narrow down niche options based on income potential and market saturation
• Discover why advisors leave their host agency, using the info to help choose a host
• Compare their startup commission rates to industry standards

Additionally, agencies with ICs (or hoping to host or hire advisors) can:

• Benchmark personal income based on IC volume
• Benchmark sales per booking amounts based on product and niche trends
• Understand what technologies hosted advisors use, and when they use tools provided by their host agency versus supplying their own instead of (or in addition to) a host's tools
• See when advisors are most likely to switch hosts
• Learn when new advisors are most likely to start their business
• Compare their company's commission split against industry standards

With a majority of hosted respondents (84%), our Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024 is a treasure trove of information for host agencies and consortia alike.

HAR's research report data can help host agencies and consortia in many ways:

• Competitive intelligence (e.g. using the data to help clarify your unique selling point as a host agency to inform your marketing initiatives)
• Educating and onboarding your ICs and agencies (e.g. using the data to help inform/manage expectations when starting out or using a tool to help your advisors and agencies develop a business plan or growth plan)
• Informing your resource development for your advisors (e.g. offering a concrete guide to standard fees)
• Researching the latest startup trends
• Discovering where the highest concentration of advisors resides to inform your outreach strategy
• Understanding how hosted advisors as a segment perceive host agency relationships to anticipate needs for new and experienced advisors alike
• Synthesizing data on why advisors switch hosts to avoid unnecessary churn

For host agencies, the Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024  is a must-have. For consortia, we recommend the bundle which includes the  Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024 and the Independent Travel Advisor Report, 2024 .

93% of new advisors chose the hosted route in 2024  making it the most popular pathway to starting a career as a travel advisor. In 2024,  hosted advisors who took the survey generated 756M in sales and 15% of active experienced advisors netted 1M+ in average annual sales.  Yet they are an elusive segment, difficult to track.

As a supplier, it's imperative to have a strong understanding of the fastest-growing segment of advisors: hosted advisors.

HAR's research report provides a rare opportunity for suppliers, DMOs, and DMCs to look at the latest trends in products and niches for this segment.

Here's how these organizations benefit from this report:

• Illustrates trends not only for hosted advisors overall but also for new advisors, offering suppliers insight into emerging trends distinct to those newest in the industry
• Offers concrete data on the hosted advisor's growth potential
• Helps suppliers understand what technology hosted advisors use

Additionally, the research report looks at product trends in a myriad ways including:

• Income generated by primary niche
• Average sales per booking for top products
• Most common niche and products for advisors overall compared to new advisors
• The areas where hosted advisors are most strongly concentrated

The data offer opportunities to engage in competitive analysis, inform product development and marketing initiatives, guide competitive pricing strategies, and tailor your product offerings.

For suppliers, we recommend the bundle which includes the Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024 and the Independent Travel Advisor Report, 2024 .

Travel Tech companies

This year we took a closer look at travel tech. In our technology section, professionals can learn from advisors' use of CRM, websites, booking engines, and itinerary builders. In this section, you can:

• Learn about market share for the biggest travel tech play among a diverse cross-section of hosted advisors
• Learn what percentage of agents use booking engines, Websites, CRMS, and Itinerary Builders
• Learn the latest trends as to which products hosted advisors gravitated to in 2022
• Find in-depth data on the hosted advisor community: demographics, areas of growth/decline, experience level, niches and products most sold

With this information, you'll be able to track product growth over time among different sectors as we continue to track trends in future surveys. It provides opportunities for competitive analysis, market share among hosted advisors, and more.

For tech companies, we recommend the bundle which includes the Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024 and the Independent Travel Advisor Report, 2024 .

This section is excerpted from the Introduction & Executive Summary of  HAR's full report !

About HAR's Survey

While the survey was conducted in 2024, the income and fee data reflect the full 2023 calendar year.

In addition to looking at income fees, demographics, operations, host relationships, and the new hosted advisors segment, this year HAR has expanded its survey to include a new section on advisors’ technology usage and media consumption .

The 2023 timeframe of the data tells a story of tempered growth for advisors' income, reflective of a travel market that has let off steam from pent-up demand for travel in 2021 and 2022. Hosted advisors (the focus of this report) recovered 2% beyond 2019 pre-COVID income.

Additionally, the pandemic shakeup left travel advisors with a larger piece of the pie in terms of travel market share. Phocuswright's recent “U.S. Travel Agency Landscape” projects that the "travel agency share of the total travel market will rise to 26% in 2026 from 21% in 2022."

How did the advisors who completed HAR’s survey factor into the market share? The 2063 advisors who completed HAR's survey reported producing over 1.1 billion in sales and generating 207,911 bookings for suppliers in 2023.

HAR offers reports on three different segments: hosted advisors, independent advisors, and employees (there wasn't sufficient data to compile a report on franchise owners in 2023). This report focuses on hosted advisors.

HAR's reports focus on advisors who are active in the industry. When tallying income for experienced advisors (3+ years of experience), we survey those who earned a minimum of 5k in annual commissions. We use the same threshold adopted by organizations like IATA and CLIA which also require $5,000 for advisor identification cards in order to focus on active advisors

Where we have enough data (as we do with this report), reports include a section dedicated to new advisors. While we still remove outliers, we do not apply this income threshold for new advisor income sections as it takes time to gain a foothold in the industry.

Purchase the full report for a complete overview of our data and its methodology. 

Of the 2063 travel advisors who completed HAR's 2024 Travel Advisor survey, 84% (1947) were hosted advisors.

The snapshot below offers an overview of sales and income for experienced hosted advisors.

An overwhelming majority,  80% of hosted advisors, reported a sales increase in 2023.  (14% reported “no sales increase” and 6% were “N/A or unsure.”) This translated to a  12% increase in average annual individual sales, which landed at $517,797 for experienced hosted  (3+ years of experience)  advisors in 2023.

Income experienced an equal 12% increase from $47,179 in 2022 to $52,636 in 2023.  This indicates that hosted advisor income has recovered 2% beyond pre-pandemic 2019 income levels ($51,723).

Purchase the full report to look at income levels for full-time and part-time hosted advisors at various experience ranges. 

Full-time vs. Part-Time Hosted Advisors

Full-time advisors were rewarded with larger income gains compared to their part-time counterparts. Specifically, full-time advisors saw a 19% average increase, whereas their part-time peers experienced a 13% average increase.

This offers a benchmark for advisors interested in tracking personal income gains as they move up HAR's income range categories.

Purchase the full report for a breakdown of average income by years of industry experience. 

While income growth declined from 26% to 12% for experienced hosted advisors (3+ years’ experience), new hosted advisors departed from this slowdown trend, following a steep growth trajectory.

Average annual sales for new hosted advisors (<3 years’ experience) were $154,918, and the average income was $12,057 in 2023. This indicates considerable growth for the new segment, with average sales increasing 35% and average income more than 3x higher.

Why the steeper income increase? In part, it relates to an updated method for recording new hosted advisors (purchase the report for our full methodology). But even without this update, income for new hosted advisors more than doubled.

In 2023, new advisors earned higher income thresholds. Among active new advisors, 3% reported an average income of over $50,000+, and 10% earned $25,000+ in their first two years of business.

However, the leap in income gains between the 2nd-year full-time advisors and those with 3-5 years remains substantial. In 2023, full-time hosted advisors with 3-5 years of experience earned 87% more than those with two years of experience.

Because of this income divide between new and experienced hosted advisors, we look at each hosted segment individually in our report when we reference income. (You can find experienced hosted advisor income here and new hosted advisor income data here . )

Every person here at HAR has their hands in the creation of our survey reports! I like to think of our reports as a geeky love letter to the travel advisor industry and their supporters!

The most critical part of our survey is the advisors who take the time out of their ridiculously busy schedules knee-deep in travel rebound bookings to take our survey . . . all 2063 of you! Our survey is in-depth and frankly, we don’t throw softballs. So thank you for busting out your P&Ls, 1099s, and/or digging into the recesses of your memories to contribute to the best industry data out there. You are the pillar of these reports (and keeper of our nerdy, nerdy hearts). And thank you to my fellow HAR-gonauts, Steph Lee, the brainchild of this data party and a major survey collaborator, and to Abbey vonGohren for editing this beast.

Want to participate in our survey next year? Heck yes, you do! You can sign up for our survey reminders here to make sure you know when our next one is live.

This report is not possible without the partners who promote the survey among their networks. We want to extend a colossal thank you to the industry partners who support our data shenanigans here at Host Agency Reviews: American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), Association of Black Travel Professionals (ABTP), BranchUp , Celebrity Cruises , Dugan's Travels LLC , Gifted Travel Network , KHM Travel , MAST Travel Network , Nexion Travel Group , Pickles Travel Network , Signature Travel Network ,  TaConnect , Travel Leaders Network , Travel Pulse , Uniglobe Travel Center , Virtuoso , and World Via-Travel Quest Network .

Want to add your name to this list of partners? Drop a line at [email protected] and we’ll chat!

Purchase the Full Hosted Travel Advisor Report, 2024

If you are a  hosted  advisor who took HAR's 2024 survey, you should have received a coupon for a free participant copy . Not sure where it is or if you should get one? Email me at [email protected] (Independent advisors and employees, your reports are in the pipeline so hold tight!)

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