When you're thinking about becoming a travel agent, one of the first questions that pops up is:

Should I create my own brand, or work under someone else’s agency?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right decision depends on your goals, your lifestyle, and how you like to work.

Let’s walk through the real pros and cons of each option, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Joining an Established Agency

This setup usually means joining a larger agency that offers a pre-built brand, shared systems, and support. You operate under their name, using their tools and processes.

Pros:

• You don’t have to build a brand from scratch
  
• Someone else handles most of the business setup
  
• Built-in team support and mentorship
  
• Easier way to “test the waters” before going all-in
  

Cons:

• Less control over your branding and business name
  
• Limited say in how client communication and systems are handled
  
• Commission splits might be lower depending on the structure
  
  

This path is great if you’re looking for simplicity, want guidance from a more experienced team, or just want to try this out before building something on your own.

Starting Your Own Travel Business & Brand

This path gives you the freedom to build a business that’s 100% yours. From the brand name to how you communicate with clients to the vibe of your Instagram grid, you get to design it as you wish.

Pros:

• Total freedom to build your brand, your way
  
• You get to shape every part of your client experience
  
• You’re building something fully yours, from the ground up
  

Cons:

• You’ll need to handle initial setup (name, registration, email, basic systems)
  
• You’ll create your own workflows and lead generation strategies
  
• You’re responsible for staying organized and motivated
  
  

This is a strong fit for you if you’re excited to take ownership, want to create something original, and are ready to grow step by step with the right support.

So…Which One Should You Choose?

There’s no wrong path here, only the one that’s right for you.

The good news? You can make a confident decision once you understand how each model works and what kind of support you’ll need to thrive.

You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone

Inside Travel Genius Coaching, I walk you through both options in depth, so you can choose the path that fits your life and your goals. Whether you want to start your own business or join an agency team, you’ll get the tools, structure, and guidance to make it work.

Click here to learn more about the course and how it can help you start building a business that fits your dreams.
No pressure. No overwhelm. Just step-by-step support to help you get started and grow with confidence.