What does a travel agency clerk, salesperson do? – Tasks and work environment
A travel agency clerk in sales works to assist individuals and companies in booking trips, hotels, transportation, and related services. Tasks include advising on destinations, comparing prices and conditions, managing booking systems, and solving problems related to deviations. Additionally, informing about visas, insurance, and local regulations is common. The work environment is primarily office-based, but many roles also involve digital customer contact via phone and email. The pace can be high, especially during periods of high demand, and the profession requires good service skills and accuracy in handling bookings and customer information.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for a travel agency clerk, salesperson has shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK, followed by an increase to 32 500 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows an average salary of 34 100 SEK, representing a total increase of about 7.2 % over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by a rising demand for qualified travel salespeople as travel recovers post-pandemic, as well as a general trend towards higher demands for service and digital skills. The market has also been influenced by the industry's adaptation to digital booking systems, favoring those with strong IT and customer service profiles. Overall, the trend indicates that the profession is becoming more specialized, which is reflected in salary levels.
Travel agency clerk, salesperson salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month (male, government sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 39,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education <3 years)
- Highest salary (female): 37,100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary (female): 30,800 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 205 SEK
- Women’s salary as % of men’s: 101%
Education and qualifications
To work as a travel agency clerk focused on sales, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably from the Business and Administration or Hotel and Tourism programs. Many employers also view post-secondary education within tourism, service, or administration positively. Practical experience, language skills, and good computer skills are often crucial for employment in the profession.
- High school diploma: Business and Administration or Hotel and Tourism (3 years)
- Post-secondary education: YH/KY training in tourism or administration (1–2 years)
- Certifications: Courses in booking systems and customer service
- Internship: Workplace-based learning during training is recommended
- Language skills: English and additional languages are advantageous
Many travel agency clerks have opportunities to travel for work, such as attending study trips or training, which provide valuable experiences and insights into different destinations. This knowledge is then used to give customers more personalized and accurate recommendations.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as employee discounts on travel, wellness allowances, bonuses for sales targets, occupational pension, and health insurance are often offered. In some cases, commission-based pay or flexible working hours are available, especially at larger travel agencies or chains.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a travel agency clerk, salesperson is relatively high, especially in larger cities where the supply of qualified candidates is large. Digitalization and self-service systems have changed the role, requiring employees to quickly adapt to new technological tools. The industry is also sensitive to economic fluctuations, meaning workload and demand can vary significantly depending on global conditions and travel trends. Success requires ongoing skills development and the ability to deliver high customer service even under pressure. Staying updated on new regulations, destinations, and offers is also important to provide relevant advice to customers.
Tips for those wanting to become a travel agency clerk in sales
To succeed as a travel agency clerk or salesperson, having a genuine interest in travel and culture, as well as strong service skills, is beneficial. Being communicative and attentive makes it easier to understand customer needs and suggest suitable solutions. A structured and meticulous personality is valuable when managing bookings and administrative tasks. Flexibility and stress tolerance help during rapid changes and busy periods, while good computer skills and quick learning facilitate working in a digital environment. Knowledge of multiple languages is also an advantage, broadening opportunities to work with international customers. Continual training in new booking systems and destination knowledge enhances competitiveness in the job market.
Key facts about Travel Agency Clerk, Salesperson
- Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
- Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month
- Women’s salary as % of men’s: 101%
- Education requirements: High school diploma, preferably supplemented with post-secondary education
- Job openings: About 550 current positions in Sweden
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a travel agency clerk in sales can advance to roles such as team leader, group manager, product manager, or specialized corporate travel salesperson. Further education and experience also open opportunities to work in event and conference planning or in purchasing and developing new destinations. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts a stable job market where digital skills and language proficiency are becoming increasingly important. The number of available jobs in the field remains high, providing good opportunities for those with the right profile and education.
Frequently asked questions about Travel Agency Clerk, Salesperson
- What does a travel agency clerk, salesperson earn?
- The average salary is 34 100 SEK per month, with a range between 24,900 and 39,100 SEK.
- What education is required to become a travel agency clerk, salesperson?
- A high school diploma in commerce, tourism, or administration is recommended, preferably supplemented with post-secondary education.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 101 % of men's salaries in the profession.
- What is the work environment like for a travel agency clerk?
- The work environment is mainly office-based with elements of digital customer contact and periods of high tempo.
- What benefits are usually offered?
- Common benefits include employee discounts on travel, wellness allowances, bonuses, and occupational pension.
- What are the future prospects?
- The outlook is considered stable with approximately 550 job openings within the profession.
