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Online travel agents play a vital role in the travel industry, providing customers with personalized service and tailored trip plans. With the rise of remote work opportunities, many people are turning to online travel agent jobs as a way to work from home and enjoy flexibility in their schedules. In this post, we’ll explore what it takes to become a virtual travel agent and provide a list of 14 companies that regularly hire remote travel agents.
What is an online travel agency?
An online travel agency is a company that offers a variety of travel services to customers, including booking flights, hotels, cruises, and tours. Online travel agents work remotely, using internet tools to research and book travel arrangements for their clients. Some virtual agents operate their own online agencies, while others work for existing firms as independent contractors or employees.
Virtual travel agents handle a range of tasks, including:
Assisting customers with trip planning and booking
Comparing prices and finding the best deals
Arranging travel for businesses and groups
Managing customer loyalty programs
Handling booking issues and cancellations
Keeping up to date with industry standards and trends
14 companies that hire virtual travel agents
From entry-level positions to roles requiring experience in customer service and travel booking, the companies listed below regularly hire remote travel agents. While some of these companies may not have open positions at the moment, they are worth considering for future job opportunities:
ADTRAV Travel Management – Provides government and corporate travel services
BCD Travel – Offers corporate travel management solutions
Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) – Covers staff travel bookings on six continents
Group Ovation Travel – Contracts independent travel consultants
Travel Leaders Group – Offers travel agency franchise opportunities
World Travel Holdings – Employs independent contractors for cruise booking
Dream Vacations Franchise – Provides franchise opportunities for travel agents
Princess Cruise Lines – Hires remote cruise vacation planners
Hopper – Offers mobile app-based travel booking and customer support
Carlisle Travel – Assigns remote travel advisers as part of a host agency
Virtual Vacation Centre – Assigns remote independent travel advisers
Aspira – Books outdoor experiences and adventure travel
Wyndham – Employs bilingual customer care agents for international bookings
Quality Travel Solutions – Offers flexible, commission-based opportunities for remote travel consultants
How to become a virtual travel agent
If you’re interested in becoming a virtual travel agent, here are some steps you can take to pursue a career in this field:
1. Obtain a GED or high school diploma – Many online travel agent positions require at least a high school diploma as a minimum education level. This ensures that candidates have the basic skills needed for the job.
2. Gain travel experience – Traveling on your own can provide valuable insights into the booking process and customer expectations. Personal travel experiences can help you better understand the needs of your clients.
3. Work in customer service and sales – Many online travel agent jobs require experience in sales or customer service. Developing these skills can help you provide excellent service to your clients.
4. Choose the right host agency – Many virtual travel agents work under host agencies that provide support, training, and marketing resources. Take the time to research different host agencies and choose one that meets your needs.
5. Apply for virtual agent positions – Once you’ve chosen a host agency, you can apply for online travel agent positions. Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experience.
6. Set up a home office – As a virtual travel agent, you’ll need a quiet and distraction-free work environment. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a dedicated workspace.
By following these steps, you can start a rewarding career as a virtual travel agent and enjoy the benefits of remote work. Whether you’re a seasoned travel professional or new to the industry, there are opportunities available for you to work from home and help customers plan their dream vacations.
