More people are booking holidays than ever before and, according to the latest ABTA research, a growing number are choosing to book through trusted travel consultants. That shift in consumer behaviour means opportunities for new travel entrepreneurs are on the rise.
But how realistic is it to build a profitable travel business without prior experience?
The answer is more achievable than you might think, especially through franchising.
Why Franchising Works for Beginners
According to the British Franchise Survey sponsored by NIC Local, an impressive 97% of UK franchises reported profitability, an extraordinary figure compared with the general startup failure rate. Franchising offers a proven business model, brand credibility, and structured training that dramatically reduces the risks of starting from scratch.
In the travel industry, this structure bridges the experience gap. You don’t need years of travel agency experience; what you need is the right mindset, strong communication skills, a network of potential clients and a franchise partner that provides world-class training and ongoing support.
Key Factors to Consider Before Investing
Choosing the right franchise is just as important as deciding to go into business at all. Here are some crucial factors to weigh before taking the leap.
1. Brand Reputation and Track Record
Look for a franchise with a credible name in the market, especially one that has proven success with people new to travel. Seek out brands recognised for their high professional standards, strong supplier relationships and documented franchisee success stories. A respected reputation doesn’t just build customer trust; it can also open doors to preferential commission rates and valuable partnerships from day one.
2. Comprehensive Training and Ongoing Support
If you’re entering travel for the first time, expect award-winning induction training followed by structured mentoring from industry professionals. Many leading franchises assign Business Development Managers (BDMs) who work with you directly to help grow your business. The most supportive networks have large HQ teams (50 to 80 people or more) to ensure franchisees and their customers have backup.
Ask whether the franchise provides:
- Dedicated marketing support and ready-to-use branded materials
- Access to an advanced CRM system to manage clients and track commissions
- Continuous professional development through workshops, webinars and coaching
- Do you have to start full time or can you start part time while you build up your network and experience gradually in year one?
3. Proven Success Stories
Look for examples of people who started where you are now and are successful in year one. Many travel franchises have members who joined with no prior experience and went on to win prestigious awards such as TTG’s New Travel Agent of the Year. Read their blogs, attend franchise events and, if possible, connect with existing franchisees to get authentic insights into their journey. Their experience can give you an honest view of what’s achievable.
Spotlight on Growth Sectors
Cruise: The Booming Niche
One of the fastest-growing and most lucrative areas in travel right now is cruise. According to CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), global passenger numbers are set to surpass pre-pandemic levels, with demand fuelled by new ships, innovative itineraries, and returning loyal travellers.
For franchisees, cruise offers strong margins, repeat bookings and high-value clients. Make sure any travel franchise you’re considering includes comprehensive cruise training and established trade partnerships in this space. Without it, you could be limiting your long-term earning potential.
Travel Opportunities and Lifestyle Perks
While many travel consultants operate from home, others take full advantage of the industry’s built-in travel perks. Some franchises offer company retreats abroad, giving you the chance to experience destinations first-hand while networking with other consultants. These events not only provide inspiration and motivation but also create authentic content you can share on social media to engage potential clients.
For many franchisees, the ability to work flexibly, earn on their own terms and travel the world is a life-changing combination that proves experience isn’t the only passport to success.
This article comes courtesy of The Travel Franchise, the UK’s number one homeworking travel agency for people new to travel. Investors open a home-based travel agency and have the ability to plan and book hundreds of ABTA-bonded holidays under its customer-facing brand, Not Just Travel.
