How to Legally Start a Travel Business From Home
Oct 16, 2025
So you're ready to turn your love of travel into a real business… but where do you even begin?
If the legal and setup side feels intimidating, or if you're worried about “doing it wrong”, take a deep breath. I’ve got you covered.
Starting your travel business from home legally doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You just need a clear plan and a few simple steps.
Let’s walk through what that actually looks like:
1. Choose Your Business Name
This might seem like a fun creative task, and it is, but it’s also a legal one.
Your business name is what you'll use to:
- Register your business with your state
- Open a business bank account
- Build brand recognition with future clients
Choose something that feels like you, but that also leaves room for growth. If you’re not sure where to start, that’s something we brainstorm inside Travel Genius Coaching.
2. Register Your Business (With Your State)
Even if you’re working from home, most states require some form of business registration. That might mean:
- Filing for a DBA (“Doing Business As”)
- Registering as an LLC or sole proprietorship
- Applying for a state or county business license
The exact requirements vary by location, and it’s easy to get lost in Google rabbit holes. That’s why I break this down inside the course, so you know exactly what to look for and how to get it done without the guesswork.
3. Open a Business Bank Account
Even if your business is just getting off the ground, keeping your personal and business finances separate is one of the best things you can do.
It simplifies taxes.
It creates clarity.
And it helps you feel like the CEO you’re becoming.
All you need is your registered business name and basic documentation to get started.
4. Understand Host Agencies vs. Independent Models
Here’s a step that trips up a lot of new agents:
Depending on how you plan to operate your business, under a host agency or as an independent agent, your legal setup and licensing may look different.
Most new agents start with a host agency because:
- They offer licensing coverage under their umbrella
- They provide supplier access and backend systems
- Agents earn more commission than you could earn completely on your own
- They can launch faster and with more support
Inside Travel Genius Coaching, I walk you through how to choose a host agency that’s aligned with your business goals (and what to avoid). Because this decision matters, for both your legal setup and your long-term growth.
Legal Doesn’t Have to Mean Complicated
You don’t have to become a legal expert to start your business the right way.
You just need a clear plan, simple tools, and someone to walk you through what matters most.
Inside Travel Genius Coaching, I’ll guide you step by step through how to set up your travel business from home. Legally, confidently, and with zero fluff.
We’ll take care of the behind-the-scenes pieces together, so you can focus on what you’re really here to do: serve your clients, book incredible trips, and build a business that gives you freedom.
Click here to join the course and get started today.
Your business is real and it deserves to be built with clarity from day one. I’ll help you do exactly that.


