Travel consultant

What does a travel consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A travel consultant works with planning, booking, and selling trips to individuals and companies. Tasks include advising on destinations, transportation, hotels, and activities, as well as managing booking systems and administrative tasks related to travel. Contact with clients occurs via phone, email, and in-person meetings, where understanding and solving customer needs is central. The profession is often practiced at travel agencies, but also at larger companies, online travel agencies, or within the transportation sector. The work pace is often high, especially during holiday periods, and the work environment is usually office-based with digital tools.

Salary development over time

The salary for travel consultants has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, increasing to 32 500 SEK in 2023 and then to 34 100 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.2% over a three-year period, with the largest increase between 2023 and 2024. Factors driving salary development include increased demand for qualified travel consultants, digitalization of the industry, and a focus on specialized customer service. Salaries are also influenced by the employer sector and education level, with public sector and higher education often offering higher salaries. Despite some competition from digital booking platforms, personal advising continues to be highly valued, contributing to positive salary development.

Travel consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 39,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 205 SEK
• Women earn: 34 200 SEK/month (101% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 34 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Minor but may occur depending on work location and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as a travel consultant, a high school diploma is generally required, preferably with a focus on tourism, commerce, or administration. Many employers also value post-secondary education in tourism or travel services, but internal training and courses are common supplements. Practical experience from customer service or sales is advantageous, and digital skills are becoming increasingly important as the industry develops.

• High school education: Tourism or commerce programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH training in tourism/travel services (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in booking systems, IATA, or similar
• Internship: Common during education or as a trainee
• Prerequisites: Good IT skills and language proficiency

Common benefits and compensation

Travel consultants are often offered benefits such as staff travel, discounted trips, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Bonuses or commissions may occur upon sales, and some employers also offer flexible working hours or remote work.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a travel consultant is characterized by competition from digital booking platforms and automated services, which increase demands for personal service and expertise. Customer expectations for quick and professional advice have risen, while the market is sensitive to economic fluctuations and global events affecting travel. To stand out, good communication skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to handle stressful periods are required. The industry offers stable employment opportunities, as there is currently a relatively large number of available positions. Flexibility and continuous skills development are important for maintaining competitiveness.

Tips for those wanting to become a travel consultant

To succeed as a travel consultant, it’s good to be service-minded and have a genuine interest in helping others find the right trip. Being communicative helps in understanding and guiding customers with different needs. Good organizational skills facilitate managing multiple bookings and details simultaneously, especially during busy periods. Strong digital skills are also valuable, as booking systems and digital tools are central to the work. The ability to work solution-oriented and stay calm under pressure is highly appreciated by both employers and clients. Continuous training and staying updated on new destinations or technological solutions strengthen confidence and career opportunities.

Key facts about Travel Consultant

• Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with YH training
• Work environment: Office-based, customer-oriented, often digital
• Demand: 550 job openings within the profession
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 101% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a travel consultant, opportunities open to advance to roles such as team leader, sales manager, or specialist in business travel and group trips. Many also choose to further their education in tourism management or business development to move into leadership positions. According to the Employment Service, future prospects are stable, with continued demand for qualified travel consultants, especially those with good language skills and digital competence. The rise of digital services also opens new career paths within online sales and customer support. However, the industry is affected by global events and changing travel habits, making flexibility and adaptability important qualities for long-term success.

Frequently asked questions about Travel Consultant

• What does a travel consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 34 100 SEK per month, with a range between 24,900 and 39,100 SEK.
• How does the salary difference between men and women look?
  - Women earn an average of 34 200 SEK per month, which is 101% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a travel consultant?
  - A high school diploma with a focus on tourism or commerce is recommended, often supplemented with YH training in tourism/travel services.
• What are the job responsibilities of a travel consultant?
  - Advising, booking trips, managing booking systems, customer service, and sales.
• Are there many job openings in this profession?
  - Yes, there are currently 550 job openings within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for travel consultants?
  - The outlook is stable with continued demand, especially for those with digital skills and language proficiency.
• What benefits are common for travel consultants?
  - Common benefits include staff travel, discounts on trips, wellness allowances, and sales bonuses.