What does a travel agency salesperson do? – Tasks and work environment
A travel agency salesperson helps individuals and companies plan, book, and execute trips. Tasks include advising on destinations, booking flights, hotels, car rentals, and package tours, as well as handling changes or cancellations. Customer contact occurs via phone, email, and face-to-face in stores or offices. The role often requires staying updated on travel trends, visa regulations, and current offers. The work environment is office-based, but the pace can vary depending on season and demand, especially during campaigns or holiday periods.
Salary development over time
The salary for travel agency salespeople has shown a stable but positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary continued upward to 34 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.2% over the period. This development reflects a growing demand for skilled salespeople in the travel industry, especially as travel recovers post-pandemic. Salary increases can also be attributed to employers seeking experienced staff with good service skills and language proficiency, as well as industry turnover that drives up wages for experienced employees.
Travel Agency Salesperson Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
- Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 205 SEK
- Women earn: 101% of men's salary (34 200 SEK vs 34 000 SEK)
Technological development has transformed the role of travel agency salespeople – today, digital skills and the ability to work with booking systems and handle online customer dialogues are often required. Those who can quickly adapt to new systems have a clear advantage in the job market. Personal service and trust remain crucial for customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Education and qualifications
To work as a travel agency salesperson, a high school education in commerce, tourism, or administration is usually recommended, but post-secondary programs can provide a broader foundation. Practical experience and strong language skills are highly valued, and many obtain their first employment through internships or trainee programs. Digital competence and service orientation are highly regarded in recruitment.
- High school diploma: Commerce or tourism program (3 years)
- Post-secondary education: YH training in travel consulting or tourism (1–2 years)
- Courses: Booking systems, customer service, languages
- Internships: Common via education or summer jobs
- Prerequisites: Good computer skills and English proficiency
Common benefits and compensations
Travel agency salespeople are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, employee discounts on travel, occupational pensions, and sometimes commissions or bonuses linked to sales targets. Other common compensations include flexible working hours, remote work options, and further training within the industry.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a travel agency salesperson is moderate but can vary depending on geographic area and economic climate. Digitalization and increased use of self-booking online have changed the nature of the profession, requiring salespeople to offer added value through personal advice and expertise. Customer expectations for quick service and availability are high, which can create a stressful work environment, especially during peak seasons. Keeping up with changing travel conditions and destinations is a challenge, as is competing with large travel portals and niche providers. However, there are opportunities for adaptable individuals willing to develop skills in digital sales.
Tips for aspiring travel agency salespeople
To succeed as a travel agency salesperson, being communicative and attentive helps understand customer needs and build trust. A structured approach makes managing multiple bookings and details easier. Flexibility and adaptability are important, as the industry changes rapidly and new systems or procedures can be introduced at short notice. A genuine interest in travel and culture fosters engagement and the ability to inspire customers. Finally, digital skills are a significant asset, as much of the sales are conducted online through modern booking systems.
Key facts about Travel Agency Salespeople
- Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
- Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month
- Hourly wage: 205 SEK
- Women earn: 101% of men's salary
- Job openings: 550 advertised in Sweden
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a travel agency salesperson, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as team leader, store manager, or specialized travel consultant responsible for corporate clients, group trips, or events. With further education and experience, work in product development, marketing, or business development within the travel industry is also possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook remains stable, with continued demand for knowledgeable salespeople, especially for more complex or tailored trips. Digitalization and increasing globalization are expected to create new tasks and skill requirements, but personal service and expertise will continue to be key competitive factors.
Frequently asked questions about Travel Agency Salespeople
- What does a Travel Agency Salesperson earn?
- A salesperson at a travel agency has an average salary of 34 100 SEK per month according to the latest statistics.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn an average of 34 200 SEK and men 34 000 SEK, which means women earn 101% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a travel agency salesperson?
- High school education in commerce or tourism is recommended, but post-secondary education and courses in booking systems and customer service are advantageous.
- What is the job market like for this profession?
- There are approximately 550 job openings in the profession right now, and the outlook is considered stable.
- What are the most common benefits?
- Common benefits include wellness allowances, employee discounts on travel, occupational pensions, and opportunities for bonuses or commissions.
- What can the highest and lowest salaries be?
- The highest salary is 39,100 SEK and the lowest is 24,900 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.
