5 signs you're ready to start your own travel business

Thinking about starting your own travel business? You might be drawn to the freedom of building a business that’s yours, the flexibility to shape your days, and the satisfaction of seeing your effort pay off in commissions. Thousands of people, many without any prior travel industry experience, have built successful businesses by choosing the right structure, support system, and a franchise model that works for them.

If you’ve found yourself at a career crossroads, here are 5 signs you might be ready to start your own travel business in 2026.

1. You’re passionate about creating personalised travel experiences

Many Travel Counsellors found they were the go-to person for travel advice among their friends and family, even before they decided to start their own travel franchise. If that sounds like you, you probably have a talent for listening, asking insightful questions, and enjoy researching hotel, flight, and tour options - then shaping them into a dream holiday. Getting the details right matters to you, because you genuinely care about the quality of the experience.

It’s a common belief that a career in personalised travel requires years of industry experience or deep technical knowledge, but at Travel Counsellors, our training is designed to support you from day one – regardless of your background. We provide tailored learning paths, intuitive technology, and access to an extensive network of suppliers. This means whether you’re new to the travel industry or have a background in a non-sales travel role, you’ll have the structure and support you need to focus on creating thoughtful, bespoke trips.

2. You enjoy forming new relationships

People feel comfortable seeking your advice - and will return because they trust that you’ll follow through. You value long-term relationships over quick wins, and you take pride in being someone others rely on. If there’s anything holding you back, it might be the concern that running your own business could feel isolating. You don’t want to sacrifice the connection, collaboration, and reassurance that comes from being part of a team.

With Travel Counsellors, you’re self-employed, but you’re never on your own. You’re supported by a dedicated Relationship Manager and become part of a welcoming community of peers who understand the journey of building a travel business. You’re empowered to build your own client relationships while being supported by a wider network each and every day.

3. You’re ready to grow and leverage your expertise

Over the years, you’ve developed valuable skills and confidence, know how to solve problems, and deliver consistently high standards in your work. You feel ready for more responsibility, and more significant reward, than your current career path allows.

Starting a business can feel like risking stability, but joining Travel Counsellors means your growth is built on a proven foundation. There’s no cap on your earning potential, and you earn 60% of the commission on the travel you sell. Our training helps you move quickly from learning to earning, while allowing you to build a business around your strengths and interests.

4. You’re seeking flexibility, independence, and work-life balance

You want more control over your professional life. This might mean having more time for family commitments, eliminating a long commute, or simply having the freedom to structure your day in a way that works for you. However, you sometimes worry that without a supportive framework, the flexibility you dream of could feel more chaotic than liberating.

At Travel Counsellors, you choose how, when, and where you work. Our systems and support are designed to protect your time as well as your income. You stay independent, while having the reassurance of a proven framework behind you, giving you the confidence to create a work-life balance that truly fits your life.

5. You’re excited about access to industry-leading support and community

The idea of building something for yourself and making your mark in the travel industry is exciting. You’re energised by being part of a community where knowledge is shared and an incredible portfolio of products is at your fingertips.

But while the idea of starting your own travel business is appealing, the thought of managing technology, compliance, and major decisions on your own can feel daunting.

At Travel Counsellors, support is built in from your very first day. You’ll have access to tailored training, continuous professional development, and our £16 million annual investment in technology. This allows you to concentrate on building your business, knowing the structure around you is designed to support long-term success.

If this sounds like you, it's time to explore what's possible.

Our Discovery Days are designed to show you how the Travel Counsellors model works, the support you’ll receive from the beginning, and how others have transformed the same ambitions into thriving travel businesses. Join us for a Discovery Day and take the first step toward turning your dream of a travel career into a reality in 2026.