Travel Agents Are Turning to Travel Coaching
If you’ve ever found yourself in the travel agent space thinking, “This just doesn’t feel aligned with me,” you’re not alone.
Maybe you thought you wanted to become a travel agent—or maybe you already are one—but you’re starting to feel like something’s missing.
Maybe you’re tired of chasing sales, hitting quotas, or trying to prove your worth to a host agency. Maybe you’ve started asking yourself… Is this really the only way to build a travel business?
That question is exactly what led me to create The Travel Coach Network.
I never wanted to be a travel agent.
I didn’t want to follow rules that felt limiting or outdated. I didn’t want my passion for travel to be reduced to selling packages and earning commissions. I craved something deeper, more meaningful—something that felt like me.
I remember saying to myself:
There has to be a more impactful way to use my love and knowledge for travel to empower others.”
That was the spark that started it all.
That’s when I realized there was a gap in the industry—and that gap was transformation.
Since then, more and more travel agents have joined the Travel Coach Network to explore a new path.
A path that feels purposeful, personal, and powerful. A path that lets you turn your travel story into something that inspires real change for others.
Here’s why travel professionals everywhere are adding coaching to their business—or shifting into it entirely.
About the Author: Sahara Rose DeVore
Hi, I’m Sahara Rose DeVore
I’m a world traveler turned entrepreneur, and the founder of The Travel Coach Network and the first ICF-accredited Travel Coach Certification Program™.
After solo traveling to 84+ countries and building a purpose-driven travel business, I now empower fellow wanderers and wanderlusters to turn their passion for travel into meaningful, impactful careers.
My work has been featured in 175+ media outlets including Forbes, CNN Travel, and Condé Nast Traveller.
Learn more about me and The Travel Coach Network when you click here.
Free Economy Class TCN Membership: Learn About Travel Coaching
Don’t have enough time to read this whole article?
Click here to get access to the FREE TCN Membership!
The Economy Class Membership for the Travel Coach Network includes:
– Travel Coaching 101 Masterclass
– Travel Coach Workbook
– Downloadable Beginner’s Guide to Travel Coaching
Travel Agent Struggles vs. Travel Coaching Freedom
1. Traditional Niches Feel Overdone + Surface-Level
As a travel agent, you’re often forced into broad, generic niches—luxury, cruises, wellness, Disney, family vacations. You’re told to define your “ideal client” based on age, income, past bookings, or destination.
Why travel coaching is different:
Your niche is born from your why.
It’s rooted in your own lived experiences and your belief about what travel can truly do for someone.
You aren’t just choosing a demographic—you’re building a business based on your story and the transformation you help others achieve.
2. You’re Treated Like a Free Assistant
Clients want 24/7 access, custom itineraries, emotional support, and destination advice… but still book on Expedia. You give so much—only to be ghosted or undervalued.
Why travel coaching is different:
You’re paid for your insight, experience, and wisdom.
You offer something booking engines and influencers can’t: depth, empathy, and guidance.
Your clients aren’t just paying for a trip—they’re investing in themselves through your support.
3. You’re Burned Out from Always Being “On”
You’re responding to late-night emergencies, juggling endless logistics, and constantly reacting to external chaos. Your energy is drained. Your creativity? Gone.
Why travel coaching is different:
Coaching gives you control over your schedule, boundaries, and client load.
You create a business around your life—not the other way around. You get to breathe again.
4. You’re Competing with Google + TikTok
Everyone thinks they can plan their own trip. You spend hours building quotes only to lose the client to a cheaper option online.
Why travel coaching is different:
You’re not in a race to the bottom.
Your value isn’t based on deals—it’s based on the clarity and confidence you help people gain.
Your clients choose you because of who you are and what you stand for—not just what you can book.
5. Your Income Depends on Commissions
One canceled trip and your paycheck disappears.
You’re stuck waiting on vendors, worrying about payouts, and navigating unstable margins.
Why travel coaching is different:
You create your own income streams. Coaching packages. Retreats. Digital products. Workshops. Speaking engagements.
You get paid for your knowledge and impact, not just transactions.
6. You Want to Make a Bigger Impact
You became a travel professional because you love what travel can do for people.
But somehow, that purpose got buried under logistics and sales goals. You want to help people grow, heal, and reconnect—not just vacation.
Why travel coaching is different:
Travel coaching is purpose-driven.
It’s transformation-focused.
It’s about using your personal journey to help others find meaning and clarity through travel.
You get to show up as your full self—and help others do the same.
It’s Not Agents vs. Coaches; It’s About Integration
I don’t believe this is a “travel agent vs. travel coach” debate.
The truth is, travel coaching can beautifully complement what you’re already doing.
It adds clarity, depth, and uniqueness to your brand. It allows you to connect with clients on a more human, emotional level—and stand out in a sea of sameness.
If you’re feeling called to shift into something that feels more aligned—you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Join The Travel Coach Certification Program during our Summer Sale happening now! https://thetravelcoachnetwork.mykajabi.com/the-travel-coach-program
Want to just learn more about travel coaching?
Join our Free Travel Coaching 101 Webinar taking place on August 22nd at 3pm EST here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/4sNvTd3ETZGK5GfC6CGViw
Listen to the Travel Coach Network Podcast
If you love listening to, learning about, and discussing topics like these in the travel industry, then you’ll love this show!
You can find it on any major podcast player.
Free Resources for Future Travel Coaches
Check out these other free resources for aspiring travel coaches:
- Listen to the Travel Coach Network Podcast
This is the perfect way to learn all about travel coaching, no matter where you are in your business journey. - Access the FREE, Economy Class of the TCN Membership
This includes a free masterclass and workbook to help you learn more about travel coaching! - Join the FREE Travel Coach Community Facebook Group
Be around inspiring and aspiring travel coaches who are just as passionate about travel as you. - Connect with the Travel Coach Network on Instagram
Have a quick question? Send us a DM! You’ll hear from me or a member of my team quickly.
