Starting your own travel business is one of the most rewarding career decisions you can make—but it also comes with challenges. While many competitor sites paint a picture of overnight success, we believe in transparency. At The Independent Travel Consultants, we offer real-world advice, genuine support, and a structure that empowers you to build a lasting, people-first travel business.
This guide will help you navigate the essentials, bust common myths, and explore why joining a supportive network like ours gives you a real edge.
Why Start a Travel Business?
The travel industry continues to thrive, driven by demand for personalised experiences, ethical travel, and expert advice. People are turning away from faceless booking sites and looking for human-led service that prioritises their needs. That’s where you come in.
Whether you want to work part-time around family, build a full-time career, or grow a niche travel brand, launching your own travel business offers flexibility, freedom, and fulfillment.
Step-by-Step: Starting Your Own Travel Business
1. Define Your 'Why'
Your passion will shape your business. Is it luxury honeymoons, LGBTQ+ travel, destination weddings, or adventure holidays? A clear motivation leads to a focused brand.
2. Choose the Right Business Model
Going it alone means managing licensing, bonding, and financial compliance. By contrast, joining The Independent Travel Consultants means you’ll have instant access to Protected Trust Services (PTS), ATOL protection, and supplier networks—all without the red tape.
3. Training & Onboarding
Our new starters receive one-to-one virtual training, real-time support, and ongoing access to workshops and mentoring. We tailor learning to your goals and experience—whether you’re new or returning to travel.
4. Branding and Website
Create a business name and logo that reflects your niche. We include free WordPress website hosting and guidance, giving you control while keeping things simple.
5. Build Your Network of Suppliers
With us, you gain access to over 200 trusted suppliers, from cruise lines to tour operators and hotels worldwide. Our supplier directory is curated to give you high commission and full booking support.
6. Understand Compliance
Financial protection isn’t optional—it’s essential. With us, all client funds are held in trust. Our team ensures you meet all regulations without needing a merchant account or trading licenses.
7. Set Up Your Booking Tools
Choose the platforms you want to use. From dynamic packaging tools to cruise and tour search engines, we’ll help you find what works best for your niche (some incur a charge, others are included).
8. Start Marketing Your Business
We teach simple strategies to get you noticed. Use social media, blogging, Google Business, and community networking. Your business grows as your name becomes known.
9. Build a Client Base
Start with people you know—friends, family, your local network. Word-of-mouth is powerful, especially when supported by your online presence and a professional approach.
10. Join Industry Events and FAM Trips
Our consultants are eligible for discounted personal holidays and supplier-hosted trips. These experiences are not only enjoyable but also great for building confidence and product knowledge.
11. Focus on Service, Not Sales
Clients return not because of the price—but because of the service. Personalised attention and genuine care will always beat a quick sale.
12. Get Paid What You Deserve
You earn 80% commission after fixed expenses. Repeat bookings earn 85%, and once you exceed £40,000 in commission in a year, you receive 90% on all future bookings.
Jamie Says:
"It’s not about flashy launch events or selling the dream. It’s about being real, being ready, and building a business that’s truly yours. If you want to start a travel business that grows with you, not above you—you’re in the right place."
Why We’re Doing Things Differently
At The Independent Travel Consultants, we’re not following the franchise playbook. We don’t charge joining fees. We don’t promise overnight success. We do offer freedom, support, protection, and a genuine sense of community.
We’re building a family—a network of diverse, skilled individuals who want to shape something better. Every consultant has a voice. Whether it’s suggesting a new tool, requesting supplier training, or joining feedback calls, we want you to help us grow.
This is your business. We’re just here to help you make it thrive.
