Travel agency assistant

What does a travel agency assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A travel agency assistant mainly helps clients book trips, hotels, and other travel services. Tasks include advising on destinations, managing booking systems, preparing quotes, and liaising with suppliers and partners. The role also involves administration, invoicing, and resolving issues related to changes or cancellations. The work environment is often office-based but can also occur at travel centers or retail stores where customer contact is central. The pace can be high, especially during peak seasons, requiring the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and deliver high-quality service.

Salary development over time

The salary for a travel agency assistant has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, then rose to 32 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary continued upward, and the current average is 34 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.2% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified travel services and a recovery in the industry after pandemic-related downturns. The education level among professionals has also risen, which may have contributed to higher salaries. The market has also become more competitive, prompting employers to offer better conditions to attract and retain skilled staff.

Travel agency assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (men): 24,900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (women): 30,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary (men): 39,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary (women): 37,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 205 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but no specific statistics are available

Education and qualifications

To work as a travel agency assistant, a high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on tourism, commerce, or administration. Many employers view post-secondary courses in tourism or travel services positively, and some work experience in service roles is advantageous. Knowledge of industry-specific IT systems and booking software is essential, and onboarding training is often provided at the workplace. The ability to communicate in multiple languages and good computer skills are also highly valued.

• High school education: Business and administration programs or hotel and tourism programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Tourism, travel services, or similar (6–24 months)
• Internships: Common during education or as a trainee at a travel agency
• Certifications: Courses in booking systems and customer service are advantageous
• Language skills: English and additional foreign languages are often desirable

Common benefits and compensations

Travel agency assistants often enjoy benefits such as discounted travel, business trips, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses for meeting sales targets. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, remote work options, and training in new booking systems and destinations. Some employers also offer pension contributions and insurance as part of the employment package.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a travel agency assistant is relatively high, especially in larger cities where the supply of qualified applicants is greater. Digitalization has transformed the industry and increased demands for technical skills and the ability to handle multiple booking systems. Customers’ rising expectations for personalized service and quick solutions mean assistants need to be flexible and attentive. Seasonal fluctuations can lead to periods of high workload, requiring resilience and organizational skills. At the same time, the profession offers opportunities to develop valuable knowledge in customer service and sales, which can pave the way for further career advancement within the travel industry.

Tips for aspiring travel agency assistants

To succeed as a travel agency assistant, it’s beneficial to have a genuine interest in travel and people, along with a strong sense of service. Good communication skills facilitate advising and problem-solving, while attention to detail and organization help manage bookings and administration. Being resilient under pressure is a major advantage during busy periods, and a positive attitude contributes to good customer relationships. It’s recommended to take advantage of internship opportunities and actively pursue courses in modern booking systems, as technical competence is increasingly important. Additional language skills and experience from other service roles can also give you an edge in the job market.

Key facts about travel agency assistants

• Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month depending on education and sector
• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with tourism courses
• Work environment: Office-based with customer contact and administrative responsibilities
• Demand: Approximately 550 job openings within the profession according to current statistics

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a travel agency assistant can advance to roles such as travel salesperson, group travel organizer, team leader, or product manager within a travel agency. With further education and experience, it’s possible to move into corporate travel specialist roles or work in marketing and sales of specialized trips. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, future prospects are stable, although digitalization is changing tasks and increasing the need for technical skills. The demand for the profession is influenced by economic cycles and travel trends, but there remains a need for personal advisors and experts in the travel industry.

Frequently asked questions about travel agency assistants

• What does a Travel Agency Assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 34 100 SEK per month, with a range from 24,900 to 39,100 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a travel agency assistant?
  - Usually, high school education, preferably supplemented with courses in tourism or administration.
• What are the job responsibilities of a travel agency assistant?
  - Booking trips, customer advising, administration, and management of booking systems are central tasks.
• What is the job market like for travel agency assistants?
  - There are approximately 550 job openings according to the latest statistics.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Discounted travel, wellness allowances, and opportunities for training are common benefits.