How to Become a Travel Advisor in Canada
The Complete Beginner’s Guide
By Jane Vogel, Founder of Travel Agent Blueprint
Thinking about becoming a travel advisor?
After more than 25 years in the Canadian travel industry, including owning and operating a successful travel agency for 16 years, I’ve spoken with hundreds of people who dreamed of turning their passion for travel into a career.
One thing I’ve learned is this:
Most people start in the wrong place.
They begin looking for the “best” host agency before they understand how the industry actually works.
Choosing the right host agency is important—but it isn’t the first decision you should make.
This guide will help you understand the fundamentals so you can make informed decisions from the very beginning
Step 1:
Decide Why You Want to Become a Travel Advisor
Everyone enters this industry for different reasons.
Some are looking for a flexible career they can build from home.
Others want a rewarding second career after retirement.
Many simply want more freedom and control over their work.
Take a few minutes to ask yourself:
Why do I want to become a travel advisor?
Am I looking for part-time or full-time income?
Do I enjoy helping people?
Am I comfortable building relationships and growing a business?
Understanding your goals is the first step toward choosing the right path.
Step 2: Understand How Travel Advisors Earn Income
One of the biggest misconceptions is that travel advisors receive a salary.
Most independent travel advisors earn income through commissions paid by travel suppliers after a client’s trip is completed.
Many advisors also charge professional planning fees for their expertise and time.
Your income depends on the business you build, the clients you serve, and the effort you invest.
Step 3: Learn What a Host Agency Does
If you’re new to the industry, you’ll likely partner with a host agency.
A host agency typically provides:
Access to supplier relationships
Booking systems and technology
Commission processing
Training and education
Marketing support
Business resources
Advisor community
Every host agency is different, which is why it’s important to understand what you’re looking for before making a decision.
Step 4: Don’t Choose a Host Agency Too Quickly
This is one of the biggest mistakes I see.
Many people join the first host agency they find because of a high commission split or a recommendation online.
But there’s much more to consider.
Look at:
Training and onboarding
Monthly and annual fees
Technology
Supplier partnerships
Mentor support
Company culture
Long-term business goals
The best host agency isn’t the one with the highest commission split.
It’s the one that best fits your goals.
Step 5: Invest in Learning First
Before committing to any host agency, spend time learning about the industry.
Understand:
Commission structures
Business models
Marketing
Client acquisition
Professional development
Industry terminology
The more knowledge you have, the more confident you’ll be when making important decisions.
My Advice After 25+ Years
One lesson has remained true throughout my career:
There is no single “best” host agency.
There is only the host agency that is the best fit for your goals, experience, and vision for your business.
That’s exactly why I created Travel Agent Blueprint.
My role isn’t to sell you one host agency.
It’s to educate you, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions before investing your time and money.
About the Author
Jane Vogel is the Founder of Travel Agent Blueprint.
With more than 25 years in the Canadian travel industry, including owning and operating a successful travel agency for 16 years, Jane has hired, trained, and mentored travel advisors while building strong relationships with leading travel suppliers.
Today, she helps aspiring and experienced travel advisors make informed decisions through independent guidance, educational resources, and personalized host agency matching.
Continue Learning
How Much Do Travel Advisors Really Make? (Coming Soon)
Choosing the Right Host Agency (Coming Soon)
Travel Advisor Commission Splits Explained (Coming Soon)
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering a career as a travel advisor, start with my Free Travel Advisor Assessment.
Based on your goals and experience, I’ll provide personalized guidance to help you determine your next steps and, if appropriate, recommend host agency options that align with what you’re looking for.