Why More People Are Becoming Travel Agents in 2025 — And Why You Should Too
The way people book holidays is changing. While online travel websites still play a role, there's been a noticeable shift back to personal service. More travellers are turning to trusted experts, and that’s putting travel agents firmly back in demand.
If you're thinking about starting a new career or side hustle, becoming a travel agent might be one of the smartest moves you can make in 2025. Especially with the rise of homeworking travel franchises, the opportunity has never been more accessible, more flexible, or more rewarding.
Let’s explore why.
Travel Agents Are Back in Demand
It might surprise you, but according to ABTA’s Holiday Habits report for 2024/25, 38% of UK travellers booked through a travel agent in the past year, up from 34% in 2023. That trend is growing, not declining.
And it’s not just older generations driving this. Gen Z – those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s – are increasingly turning to travel agents too. In fact, recent research by Condor Ferries shows that 48% of Gen Z travellers used a travel agent in 2024, up from just 26% in 2019. That’s nearly half of the UK’s youngest adult travellers choosing real people over search engines.
Why? Because they value expert advice, personalised recommendations, and having someone to call when plans change.
Gen Z Wants More Than Just Cheap Flights
This generation has grown up with technology, but when it comes to planning complex or meaningful travel experiences, they’re choosing personal support over self-service.
A study from Travel Weekly found that nearly half of Gen Z travellers say a travel agent’s advice influences their decisions. That’s compared to just 13% of older millennials. It shows that while Gen Z are digital natives, they also crave reassurance, trust, and tailored guidance – all things that travel agents provide better than any algorithm.
As a future travel agent, you’re not just selling holidays – you’re offering confidence, creativity, and care.
The Travel Industry Is Thriving
Despite the closure of many high street agencies over the past decade, the travel industry isn’t shrinking. It’s evolving.
The UK travel agency market is now valued at over £35 billion, with steady growth forecast through to 2035. And most of that growth is happening outside of traditional bricks-and-mortar offices. Homeworking and franchise models are rising fast – making it possible for more people to join the industry without the cost and complexity of setting up alone.
You don’t need a shopfront or years of experience to get started. All you need is passion, drive, and the right support behind you.
Why Become a Travel Agent in 2025?
Here are just a few reasons why becoming a travel agent is an excellent choice this year:
1. Flexible Lifestyle
Work from home, part-time or full-time, and build your business around your life – not the other way around.
2. Growing Client Demand
More people want to use travel agents again, especially younger travellers. It’s a career with real relevance.
3. No Experience Needed
Many travel franchises, like The Good Travel Agent, provide full training, marketing tools, systems, and ongoing support.
4. Low Start-Up Costs
Compared to launching a traditional business, travel franchises are affordable and quick to set up.
5. Future-Proof with Tech
You’ll have access to smart tools, AI-powered features, and digital marketing support – so you can compete with the big names while staying personal.
A Career That’s Rewarding and Purpose-Driven
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about helping someone plan their dream trip, a long-awaited honeymoon, or a bucket-list family adventure. You’re not just arranging travel – you’re making memories happen.
And with customers increasingly looking for sustainable and meaningful travel experiences, there’s an opportunity to align your business with a sense of purpose too. At The Good Travel Agent, for example, we plant a tree for every booking. Initiatives like these aren’t just good for the planet – they’re great for building loyalty with conscious consumers.
Ready to Start Your Travel Agent Journey?
If you’ve ever dreamed about working in travel, now is the perfect time. The demand is real, the tools are there, and the support is better than ever.
Whether you’re a career changer, a parent looking for flexibility, or simply someone with a love for travel, becoming a homeworking travel agent could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Learn more, download the brochure or book a call with our team at:
👉 www.thegoodtravelfranchise.co.uk
