If you have a deep passion for travel and want to make a career as a travel booking agent, then we have some of the best advice for you. By working as a travel agent, you can not only make money by helping others with their travel needs but can also fuilfill your passion. To work as a travel agent, it is important to go through travel booking agent registration. Here is some detailed view on the role and duties of travel booking agents, eligibility and the registration process steps.
The role of travel booking agent
A travel booking agent is a licensed professional who helps individuals and businesses plan, makes bookings for their travel itineraries and earn as per the commission structures. They help them with their needs for hotel, transportation and other activities. A travel agent –
- Plans the itineraries for tours domestically or internationally
- Manages all necessary bookings for transport, such as rail, road, air, or sea
- Compare prices and negotiates with vendors for ticket booking, hotels, activities organisers
- Books accommodation as per the need and the budget of the client.
- Tailors the itinerary to accommodate the activities as per the taste of the clients
- Provides for all the other services related to tourism.
Travel booking agents have the speciality to make bookings with the various modes of transportation as per the requirements of the travellers. The train ticket agents specialise in making railway reservations, through platforms, such as IRCTC to make timely and hassle-free bookings. Similarly, the bus booking agents are aware of private and government bus services and are experts in finding the best bus routes, especially for overnight journeys. These days, with the help of technology, the ticketing agents use the digital platforms to book tickets anytime and from anywhere. The travel booking agents plan ahead and multi-task to stay ahead with travel booking in advance.
How to become a travel booking agent registration
Becoming a travel agent in India is a simple process that includes a few key steps. Let us take a look at the steps you need to take for travel booking agent registration –
- Research and understand the various certification programs and meet the eligibility requirements for them with the necessary education and training. You will be required to pass the certification exam and maintain the certification. It is advisable to enroll yourself in courses or workshops specific to ticket booking and travel agency operations. The formal education in the travel and tourism sector will provide you valuable knowledge of the trade. Once you will start working, the hands-on experience will impart you practical training.
To become an authorised IRCTC agent you need to fill the registration form, fulfill the specific criteria and complete the registration process. You can also diversify your services and register with the various Principal Service Providers (PSP). you need to submit the key KYC documents as part of the travel booking agent registration, such as PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, proof of retail outlet, company registration documents, valid mobile number and email ID.
- It is important to have a complete understanding of the ticket booking process on platforms, such as IRCTC and bus booking platforms. One must understand the website in and out, especially how to navigate around it, check availability, and make booking in advance for clients.
It is important to network with other professionals in the travel industry and build relationships with them. Having a good network will help you establish yourself as a credible travel agent. One should attend industry events and be part of professional associations, whenever possible. Furthermore, it is important to stay updated with industry trends, be aware about upcoming destinations and upgrade oneself with technological advancements.
