12 Things Every New Travel Advisor Should Know Before Launching Their Business
- Scott Wismont, CTIE
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Starting your travel business is exciting, but the road to success isn’t just about loving travel—it’s about building a business that’s ready to scale from day one. Whether you’re just exploring your options or gearing up to sign with a host agency, here are the 12 things every new advisor should focus on to start strong.
1. Get Clear on Your Vision
Before you build a brand or choose a name, ask yourself: Who do I want to serve, and what kind of travel lights me up? The more specific you can be, the better your brand will resonate with future clients.
2. Understand This Is a Business
If you’re serious about being a travel advisor, treat it like a real business from day one. That means setting aside regular hours, having a dedicated workspace, and getting your systems in place before you need them.
3. Choose a Host That Matches Your Ambition
Don’t get distracted by big commission splits or flashy promises. Choose a host agency that invests in your growth, offers mentorship, and gives you the freedom to build your own brand.
4. Don’t Settle for Generic “Support”
Support should mean more than a help desk or a once-a-month webinar. Ask how often you’ll have access to leadership, what kind of mentoring is available, and whether you’ll be building alongside a community—or on your own.
5. Invest in the Right Tools Early
You need more than a spreadsheet and sticky notes. A good CRM, like Tern, will help you manage clients, trips, and commissions all in one place. You’ll also want legal protections like those from Travel Industry Solutions to keep your business compliant and protected from day one.
6. Set Up a Business Bank Account
Keep your business finances separate from your personal ones. Open a business checking account, get a business debit or credit card, and use a bookkeeping tool to track income and expenses from the start.
7. Learn the Legal Side of Travel
This industry comes with real legal responsibility. Make sure you’re using proper client agreements and disclaimers, and understand the laws that apply to travel planning in your state and beyond.
8. Build a Simple, Professional Website
You don’t need a fancy site to start—but you do need a place where potential clients can learn more about you, request a quote, and understand what you offer. Bonus points if your site reflects your personality and niche.
9. Get Comfortable with Marketing
Your business doesn’t grow by accident. Start building a presence on at least one platform (Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn), and create a basic lead magnet to start building your email list.
10. Make Education Part of Your Routine
Whether you’re taking the TRIPKIT course or learning through supplier webinars, make a habit of investing in your knowledge. The best advisors are always learning, refining, and growing.
11. Surround Yourself with the Right People
Find a community of advisors who want to grow the way you do. Whether that’s through your host agency or a professional network, being around others who take their business seriously will push you to level up faster.
12. Know That the First Year Is the Foundation
You won’t build a six-figure business in a month—but you can absolutely lay the groundwork. With the right support, tools, and mindset, your first year can set the tone for everything to come.
Starting a travel business isn’t just about launching—it’s about building something sustainable and aligned with your values. At Rainbow Getaways Travel Network, we help new advisors build smart, intentional businesses from the start, with real support and a clear path forward.
