The Travel Agent Guide

🎙️ New Episode: What If You Could Double Your Sales Without Doubling Your Hours Most travel agents think growth means working more—but this episode challenges that. They break down how every task you do falls into a different “bucket.” Some are $20/hour tasks, others are $200/hour tasks—and if you’re doing everything yourself, you’re slowing down your own growth. The real shift happens when you start letting go of repeatable work and focus on what actually drives revenue. It starts simple: tr...

What if your next client is already in your everyday life? In this episode, we talk to Monica Bowen, a travel advisor generating nearly $1M a year—mostly through referrals and her personal network. From her kids’ school community to social circles, she shares how she turned real relationships into consistent bookings—without being “salesy.” In this episode:• How to find your ideal client naturally• Turning school and community connections into leads• Building trust that drives referrals• Simp...

The Basics of AI Saving You Time on Itinerary Creation How are travel agents really using AI today—and how can it help you work faster without losing your personal touch? In this episode, we talk about how AI can support your business—from research, ideation, and narrowing down options, to using tools like AI Assist in Tern. We also dive into whether you should be using AI before client consultations to come across more confident and prepared.We break down how much you can trust AI when...

Podcast Episode: The Ultimate Pre-Departure Checklist for Travel Advisors Ready to take your travel business to the next level? This week, we’re diving deep into pre-departure checks—the essential steps that every travel advisor needs to ensure their clients have a seamless, stress-free trip. From flights and transfers to hotels, tours, and special client requests, we break down every detail you shouldn’t skip. Learn how to set expectations with clients, implement a pre-departure team, and le...

Most travel advisors think they need more time. In reality, they need more support. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what a fully trained assistant (and a true pre-departure team) can handle for you—so you can stay focused on sales, client relationships, and growth. From forgotten insurance quotes to hotel reconfirmations, missing payments, and last-minute travel chaos, this conversation breaks down the behind-the-scenes tasks that keep trips smooth and clients obsessed. What You’...

How to Add on Hundreds in Commission without Getting Questions Are you putting together detailed FIT trips, booking flights, coordinating transfers and tours — and still earning just 10–12%? In this episode of Travel Agent Guide, we share how to strategically structure package pricing so you can earn 15–20% commission without constant client pushback. We cover how to present a single package price with confidence, navigate itemization requests, offset non-commissionable items like flights and...

What’s a DMC—and how can it help you look like an expert in a destination you’ve never even visited? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the "secret weapon" of elite travel advisors: the Destination Management Company (DMC). We break down exactly what a DMC is, why they are a total game-changer for complex itineraries, and how you can confidently bring a local partner into a client consultation while increasing your authority, not losing it. Whether you are planning a high-end luxury...

In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to transition from a traditional job into a thriving, full-time travel business. From working long nights in the service industry to building a six-figure commission career, this conversation breaks down the realities behind the success—mindset shifts, sales skills, systems, mentorship, and knowing when to take the leap. You’ll hear honest insights about balancing multiple jobs, overcoming self-doubt, setting boundaries, hiring support, and w...

In this episode of The Travel Agent Guide, Byrd Bergeron and Haley DeCarlo break down one of the hardest skills every travel advisor must learn: when—and how—to say no to a client. From low budgets and “flights-only” requests to boundary issues, Airbnbs, and price-checking clients, this conversation walks through real-world scenarios advisors face every day. Byrd and Haley share exactly how to bless and release clients with professionalism, confidence, and clarity—without burning bridges. Thi...