The concept of a home based travel business is no longer a pipe dream. With modern tools, increased demand for personalised travel planning, and a hunger for flexibility, thousands across the UK are taking control of their careers by launching their own travel ventures from home. And it isn’t just about escaping the 9-to-5—it’s about building a sustainable, rewarding business doing something you genuinely love.
In this article, we explore what makes this business model so attractive, what’s needed to succeed, and how The Independent Travel Consultants are doing things differently to ensure real, long-term success for both newcomers and seasoned pros.
The Rise of Home-Based Travel Businesses
Working from home was once seen as a perk. Now, it’s an expectation. The travel industry is no exception. Since the pandemic, consumer demand for expert, human-led advice has grown—people want reassurance, personal service, and flexibility. This has made home-based travel agents more relevant than ever.
With a computer, internet connection, and access to the right tools, anyone can launch a home-based travel business and begin serving clients in a meaningful way.
According to a 2023 ABTA report, over 40% of UK travellers now prefer to book through independent travel advisors rather than through online-only sites or high street shops. The trust is shifting—and that trust is your opportunity.
What Is a Home Based Travel Business?
A home-based travel business allows you to sell holidays and travel services from the comfort of your own home. You don’t need retail premises, and you don’t need to hold your own ATOL or consumer protection credentials—your host agency (like The Independent Travel Consultants) handles all of that.
You’ll typically:
- Use booking platforms to find flights, hotels, cruises, and more
- Work with trusted suppliers and tour operators
- Provide advice and support to your clients from start to finish
- Earn commission on every booking you make
With the right support and tools, it’s no different to running your own fully functioning travel agency—just without the overheads.
Jamie Says:
"We’ve created a model where you can focus on what you love—travel and people—while we handle the red tape. You don’t need to have 20 years of experience or work 50 hours a week to build something successful. You just need the right support."
The Independent Travel Consultants: Doing Things Differently
There’s no shortage of homeworking travel companies out there, but we’re proud to do things our way.
Unlike some organisations, we:
- ❌ Don’t charge any joining fees
- ✅ Provide ongoing, UK-based training and mentoring
- ✅ Offer access to 200+ trusted suppliers and operators
- ✅ Host your own branded website
- ✅ Let you build your business under your own name
- ✅ Support new and experienced agents equally
This isn’t about signing you up and leaving you to it—it’s about helping you thrive in a way that works for you.
How to Start Your Home Based Travel Business
Starting your own travel business can sound overwhelming, but with the right host agency, it’s refreshingly straightforward.
- Join a Host Agency
This gives you access to supplier relationships, booking tools, ATOL protection, and business support. - Complete Training
Learn how to use booking systems, build client relationships, and navigate key industry tools. Our training is virtual and supportive. - Set Up Your Brand
Want to trade as "Sunset Escapes by Sarah"? No problem. We’ll help you get your name, logo, and website sorted. - Build Your Client Base
Start with friends, family, local networks or social media. You don’t need thousands of followers—just a handful of happy clients. - Grow Your Business
Work flexibly around your life, increase hours as your confidence grows, and access regular training and supplier incentives.
To support your research, you can also explore the UK government’s Start a Business from Home page for broader guidance on running home-based ventures.
Countering the Critics: Experience Isn’t Everything
There’s a belief among some long-standing industry professionals that newcomers “dilute the value” of being a travel agent. But the truth is this:
The industry is evolving, and clients value passion, trust, and personalised service far more than decades of shop-floor experience.
At The Independent Travel Consultants, we believe:
- Newcomers bring fresh perspective
- Passion outweighs polish
- Support and training bridge experience gaps
We’re not here to replace traditional agents. We’re here to grow the industry by making it more accessible, inclusive, and modern.
The Benefits of a Home-Based Travel Business
- Flexibility: Work around your family, other jobs, or commitments
- Low Overheads: No premises, no staff, no stock
- High Earning Potential: Earn up to 90% commission on bookings
- Creative Control: Choose your niche, brand your way, set your schedule
- Community: Be part of a supportive network of likeminded consultants
Whether you’re a full-time parent, someone seeking a second income stream, or just ready for a new adventure—this business adapts to you.
Final Thought
If you’ve ever dreamed of working in travel, setting your own hours, or building something meaningful that reflects your personality—this is your sign.
Starting a home based travel business is not only achievable—it could be the most rewarding decision you make.
Let’s make it happen.
