Travel Agents
Travel agents plan and book transportation, accommodations, and itineraries for customers traveling to various destinations. They work in travel agencies, corporate travel departments, or as independent contractors, using reservation systems and supplier networks to arrange trips, manage costs, and handle travel logistics.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against travel agents and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Travel agents spend their time consulting with clients about trip preferences, researching destinations and transportation options, and booking flights, hotels, and tours through computer systems. They compare prices, manage itineraries, process payments, and handle customer issues like flight changes or accommodation problems. Much of the work involves phone calls, emails, and online research to ensure trips meet client needs and budgets.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECS. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy organizing details and following established procedures while also pursuing business opportunities. You do well with systems and rules, but also thrive when creating solutions for clients and building your own client base or business ventures.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | $63,400 | $63,400 | $63,400 | — |
| District of Columbia | $47,410 | $61,560 | $75,400 | 160 |
| Montana | $46,500 | $61,330 | $68,480 | 200 |
| New Jersey | $45,900 | $61,090 | $73,370 | 1,660 |
| Connecticut | $48,890 | $60,640 | $71,970 | 650 |
| Vermont | $50,150 | $60,560 | $64,010 | 120 |
| Rhode Island | $45,950 | $59,790 | $76,710 | 250 |
| Oregon | $48,800 | $56,810 | $63,400 | 620 |
| Utah | $37,970 | $56,670 | $63,680 | 440 |
| Colorado | $48,370 | $56,570 | $62,500 | 1,100 |
| Massachusetts | $46,200 | $56,450 | $66,300 | 1,810 |
| North Carolina | $45,560 | $56,180 | $63,810 | 1,250 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Travel Associate (CTA) — The Travel Institute
- Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) — The Travel Institute
- Global Travel Professional (GTP) — Global Business Travel Association Academy
- Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) — The Travel Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against travel agents and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 41-3041.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.