Should I become a travel agent? About This Page:

[DISNEY03]

Hello!
I was considering becoming a travel agent and did not know how to even begin. First I just wanted your opinion if it was worth it for me or not. I'm always looking for more money but it is partly for the money but more so, like all of you I love anything Disney and have been there very often, we own into dvc and have visited almost every resort there, even if only for a few hours. I would just want to be a Disney specialist I'm not interested in other travel so I would like to know if that is a possibility too, to just be a Disney specialist?
I have helped all my family and friends book their trips over the years (approx. 20, I have a very large family) I have visited and stayed at many of the resorts there, so I'm pretty knowledgeable of wdw, again that may not be enough.
I would just really like any opinions or advice anyone could offer. I just figured if I love it and have been helping book others trips maybe I could make a little extra $$, as I am a housewife with two little one's, but I would not have to rely on that $$$.
Thank you for taking the time to help!

[MrsM]

Hi Danielle,

There are agencies that specialize in Disney travel, and it sounds like you already know a alot about what Disney has to offer! Being a home based agent is a good way to make some extra money and use the knowledge you already have. I would suggest that you look at some of the agencies that are out there - the agencies that sponsor Passporter and other online Disney communities are all reputable agencies - and check with the ones you're interested in to see what their requirements are and if it feels like the right place for you!

[DISNEY03]

Thank you very much for the information!

[dmpyron]

I would suggest two sets of books to buy to investigate the business. The first is from Kelly Monaghan and is a four book, $150 course. I use one of the books constantly as a reference. Becoming a Travel Agent - The Home-Based Travel Agent Resource Center. The second is from Tom and Joanie Ogg and is a great tool for learning the business and how to sell. There are actually several books to choose from. They didn't have the course now available when I started, so I can't comment on it. Home Based Travel Agent Information Center They are worth the investment.

I would suggest doing a lot of research on host agencies. There are lots of them out there, and each has different expenses and service. The one thing I have to say is to avoid "card mills". For a fee of around $495 they will "make you a travel agent" and allow you to travel at "discounts". Discounts that, for the most part, don't exist. Yes, I can get a good rate for a few nights at WDW and some other suppliers, but the huge discounts the advertise just aren't out there. Find somebody that provides support and real training. Forget these "travel agent ID cards". They are, for the most part, worthless.