Starting your travel business is exciting. But it’s also easy to fall into a few common traps that can slow your progress or leave you spinning your wheels.

The good news? These mistakes are completely avoidable once you know what to look for.

Here are some of the biggest ones I see new agents make and how you can avoid them.

1. Waiting Until Everything Feels “Perfect”

So many new agents hold off on promoting themselves because their website isn’t finished, their logo isn’t polished, or they don’t feel “ready” yet. But here’s the truth: no one feels 100% ready when they begin.

Clients don’t need perfect. They need someone who is helpful, responsive, and kind. Start with what you have. Serve well. Learn as you go.

2. Trying to Sell Everything

You don’t have to be an expert in every cruise line, every resort, and every destination.

When you try to sell everything, you confuse your messaging and overwhelm yourself. The fastest way to build confidence (and trust) is to focus on one niche, one client type, or one vacation style you genuinely enjoy.

3. Doing Everything Manually

If you’re rewriting every email, tracking trips in a notebook, or spending hours answering the same questions, your business is working harder than it has to.

Setting up simple systems like email templates, automated workflows, and a basic CRM will save you time and sanity. You don’t need a fancy setup, just a repeatable one.

4. Not Following Up With Leads

Just because someone doesn’t book right away doesn’t mean they’re not interested.

People are busy. Sometimes they need a gentle reminder or a little more time. Keep showing up with warmth, value, and intention. Follow-up isn’t pushy, it’s professional.

That one extra check-in? It could be the reason they book with you instead of someone else.

5. Letting Fear Keep You Quiet

I get it. Talking about your new business can feel vulnerable.

But people love travel and they love talking about it. Every time you share what you do, you’re planting a seed. You’re giving someone the chance to say, “Oh! I’ve been meaning to plan a trip.”

So don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start the conversation.

Ready to Skip the Guesswork and Start Growing with Confidence?

These are the exact mindset shifts and systems I walk you through inside Travel Genius Coaching. You don’t have to figure this out alone. And you don’t have to do it perfectly to succeed.

If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels, build a business with clarity, and finally feel like you know what you’re doing, this course was made for you.

You’ll get step-by-step lessons, done-for-you templates, and the exact tools I use to serve clients and grow a thriving travel business.

Click here to join the course and start building your business today.
 

You're in the right place and I’ll support you every step of the way.