Wondering how to become a travel agent? Let our Smarties lead the way.

For thirty-three years and counting since our founding in 1990, we’ve aimed to create a work environment where a passion for hospitality can be fueled into creating clients’ remarkable travel memories.

With curiosity around how to become a travel agent increasing in recent years, our team is often told that being a SmartFlyer travel advisor is a dream job; we can’t help but agree! For thirty-three years and counting since our founding in 1990, we’ve aimed to create a work environment where a passion for hospitality can be fueled into creating clients’ remarkable travel memories–both for our growing team of in-house advisors and our global community of over 250 independent affiliates. While we can’t give away all of the secrets behind what makes this business so special, we’ve broken down some of our most commonly asked questions for those considering a career in luxury travel.

The below “How to Become a Travel Agent” FAQ is comprehensive, but please keep in mind that we do not onboard new-to-industry advisors on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year. In order to ensure that our platform’s resources are dedicated to our existing advisors and clients, we have shifted towards onboarding new agents only once per year through our mentorship program: Takeoff. This highly personalized approach to advisor development pairs new-to-industry associates with experienced SmartFlyer agents who are as passionate about developing fresh talent as they are driving their own sales. But more on that later!

Whether you’re an experienced advisor looking to shift gears, or considering making the leap into travel for the first time, read on for all you need to know about how to become a travel agent.

I’m An Experienced Agent–give me the rundown on becoming a Smartie.

If you have travel industry experience and are looking to bring your business to SmartFlyer, please submit your information here and someone from our Affiliates team will be in touch with you directly.

Tell me more. Which preferred hotel programs are you part of?

To name a few: Accor STEP, Belmond Bellini Club, Couture by Langham, Dorchester Collection’s Diamond Club, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Hilton Impresario, Hyatt Privé, IHG Luxury & Lifestyle, Jumeirah Passport to Luxury, Mandarin Oriental Fan Club, Marriott STARS & Luminous (Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, EDITION), Peninsula Hotels PenClub, Rocco Forte Hotels Sir Rocco’s Knights, Rosewood Elite, Shangri-La’s The Luxury Circle, and SLH WithIn.

What exactly is SmartFlyer CORE? It’s taking over my social feed!

We host an annual agency-wide summit, CORE (Collaboration, Originality, Relationships, and Education) where we bring together our team and partners to strategize for the year ahead.

I’m an established agent based in Australia. Who should I reach out to?

If you are based in Australia and would like more information on joining our SmartFlyerAU team, please connect with Anthony Goldman via email at anthony@smartflyer.com.au

I’m Looking to Make a Career Pivot: Tell Me More About Takeoff

What are you looking for when bringing on new SmartFlyer travel advisors?

Dynamic self-starters will find synergy in this space. Smarties (that’s what we call our agents!) are natural-born lovers of hospitality; a successful candidate thrives on nailing the details. If you’re looking for the secret to how to become a luxury travel advisor, it’s all rooted in professional relationships. We foster talent seeking a collaborative community as the tool to grow your own business and meet revenue goals.

Is your team salaried or work off an independent contractor model?

Both! While we do have an in-house team of experienced advisors, the vast majority of our network is made up of independent contractors who utilize the SmartFlyer brand to ensure their clients receive the best possible perks but own their own businesses. We are only currently accepting applications for independent contractors, with all new-to-industry agents required to complete our Takeoff program.

Is SmartFlyer a member of any consortia?

Yes, for a decade and counting, SmartFlyer has proudly been a member of Virtuoso, the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel. Virtuoso agents are partnered with over 1,800 of the world’s best companies such as hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and more. In turn, SmartFlyer travel advisors use their personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke trips for clients, including unique experiences, special values, complimentary perks, VIP treatment, and rare access.

How often does Takeoff hold training sessions?

Takeoff launches with a two-week course called Smartie School covering everything on how to become a luxury travel advisor. From there, we hold bi-monthly Takeoff Roundtables with all mentors and associates. Additionally, throughout the year, there are countless opportunities for education including our weekly product and destination training with partners around the world. Finally, Takeoff associates have monthly one-on-ones exclusively with their mentor.

What is the deadline to apply for Takeoff 2025?

We accept applications (linked below) on an ongoing basis each year. To be a part of Takeoff 2025, please submit by November 1, 2024. Applicants will be notified by mid-December 2024 of their acceptance with the program kicking off in late February 2025 and concluding in February 2026.

Okay, I’m ready to apply!

If you are new to the industry, please submit your request to join Takeoff here. As a part of the application, you will be asked to submit a one- to three-page business plan that outlines the description of your targeted client demographic, how you plan on positioning yourself as a SmartFlyer travel advisor, and what marketing strategies you plan on using to bridge your credibility while reaching out to this potential network.