Travel consultant

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

A travel consultant works to plan, book, and tailor trips for individuals and companies. The role involves daily contact with clients via phone, email, and sometimes in person, where advising on flights, hotels, transfers, and activities is included. Tasks also include managing booking systems, handling payments, and sometimes troubleshooting delays or changes. The work environment is often office-based, but digital solutions enable remote work in some cases. Customer service, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple cases simultaneously are key qualities for success in this profession.

Salary development over time

Salaries for travel consultants have increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 32 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has reached 34 100, representing an increase of about 7.2% over the three-year period. This development is linked to a growing focus on qualified advice, digitization of the travel industry, and increasing demand for tailored travel experiences. Meanwhile, the labor market has been affected by changed travel habits post-pandemic, leading to some restructuring and specialization within the profession. Overall, salary growth has been slightly stronger than the average for similar service occupations, reflecting the need for skills and language proficiency.

Travel consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month (man, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 39,100 SEK/month (man, public sector, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Highest salary (woman): 37,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (woman): 30,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 205 SEK
• Women earn: 101 % of men's salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a travel consultant, at least a high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on tourism or hotel and restaurant management. Post-secondary education in tourism, service, or similar fields increases competitiveness. Industry-specific courses, certifications, and experience with booking systems are advantageous. Employers often view language skills and prior customer service experience positively.

• High school: Tourism program or equivalent
• Post-secondary education: YH training in tourism/service (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in booking systems and customer service
• Language skills: English and additional languages are advantageous
• Internship: Industry experience through internships or trainee programs

Common benefits and compensations

Travel consultants are often offered benefits such as staff discounts on travel, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and opportunities for bonuses based on sales results. Several employers also provide training grants and flexible working hours, especially in larger travel agencies and international companies.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a travel consultant is moderate to high, especially in metropolitan areas where demand for qualified advice is greatest. The industry is influenced by rapid changes in travel trends, digitization, and global uncertainty, which can affect travel behavior. Challenges include the need for continuous skills development, adaptation to new booking systems, and managing stressful periods during peak seasons or unforeseen events. At the same time, there is increasing demand for specialization in niche segments like business travel and sustainable tourism, which can create new opportunities but also require higher skills and flexibility.

Tips for aspiring Travel consultants

To succeed as a travel consultant, it is beneficial to combine excellent service skills with the ability to work systematically under pressure. Good organizational skills help keep track of many simultaneous bookings and details, while communication skills are crucial for understanding and meeting customer needs. Being solution-oriented increases the chances of quickly handling changes or problems that may arise during travel. Flexibility and adaptability are necessary to meet different customer types and quickly learn new technical systems. Finally, an interest in travel and world knowledge is a great asset, as it makes it easier to give personal and relevant recommendations.

Key facts about Travel consultant

• Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or post-secondary education in tourism/service
• Work environment: Office-based, often digital and internationally oriented
• Demand: Approximately 550 job openings in Sweden right now
• Gender salary gap: 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, product manager, or specialist in business travel and niche tourism. Some choose to further their education and work in travel arrangements at larger international companies or within event and conference industries. The employment agency's forecasts show a steady need for travel consultants in the coming years, especially for those with digital skills and language proficiency. Digitization and new travel trends drive demand for adaptable and service-oriented employees, which bodes well for those looking to develop within the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Travel consultant

• What is the average salary of a Travel consultant?
  - The average salary for a travel consultant is 34 100 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for a Travel consultant?
  - The highest salary is 39,100 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the public sector with post-secondary education.
• What is the hourly wage for a Travel consultant?
  - The average for hourly employees is 205 SEK per hour, based on 166 hours/month.
• Is there a difference between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101 % of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Travel consultant?
  - High school education in tourism or post-secondary education in service/tourism is most common.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is stable, with approximately 550 job openings in Sweden right now.
• What are the job responsibilities of a Travel consultant?
  - Tasks include advising, booking, customer service, and problem-solving related to travel.