DRAWBACKS
The main problem with becoming a travel agent is the Internet. Travel agencies were among the first industries that left the “real” world and became highly successful online. Even though brick and mortar travel agencies used to be popular, many people now prefer to book a vacation online. Don’t let this deter you though, since anyone who travels beyond a simple trip knows that the ability to speak to someone about their options in many cases outweighs the info that you search for online. You would be amazed at how much useful information an experienced travel agent could provide you with, from car rentals to hotel books, to flights around the world.
Another drawback is that this industry is not recession proof. Therefore, you could wind up out of a job during the next big recession. When people try to cut back on spending, travel is often the first thing that goes out the window.
If you don’t plan on working for yourself as a travel agent contractor, you might also be paid based on commission. People who are great at sales might not mind commission pay, but people who aren’t great at selling will find commission-based pay hard to deal with.