a disney travel agent

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent: Step-by-Step

How do you become a Disney travel agent? Over 3,000 people search this question every month on Google.

That’s why, in this definitive guide, I’ll show you the exact steps you need to take to pursue this career path. I’ll also explore some important considerations before you embark on a career specializing in Disney travel. And I’ll answer some frequently-asked questions.

Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent: 10-Step Process

Considerations before applying to be a disney travel agent, faqs about becoming a disney travel agent.

For this article, I interviewed the owner of one of the best-performing Disney-focused travel agencies in the country. He told me what he looks for when hiring new agents. He also shared the traits and habits of his most successful agents.

I also relied on my personal experience. I spent nearly seven years as a Cast Member planning vacations at one of Disney’s reservation call centers. During that time I trained hundreds of other agents on how to do the job, too.

By the time you’ve finished this article, you’ll have all the information you need to be successful at booking and planning Disney vacations for others.

1. Understand How Commission Works for Travel Agents

Commissions are the primary source of income for travel agents. It’s important to understand how they work.

Commission-Based Pay

Most host travel agencies categorize their travel planners as independent contractors.

For most agents, the sole source of income will be commissions from booking clients’ travel.

In other words, you will not earn a regular monthly salary or hourly wage. Instead, you’ll receive a percentage of the cost of each vacation you book.

Not all parts of the vacation package will earn a commission.

For example, at Disney World, you’ll generally earn commission on :

• Hotel accommodations
• Most multi-day theme park tickets (3-days or longer)
• Disney Dining Plans (commission rate may be different from the rest of the package)
• VIP tours and other select enhanced experiences

But you won’t earn commission on :

• Dining reservations
• Annual passes
• Genie+ / Lightning Lane and other add-ons
• 1-Day and 2-Day tickets

Commission is paid by the destination (such as Disney World), not the client. The client pays the same price they would have paid if they’d booked it on their own.

Commission Split

Disney pays travel agencies a 10% base commission for each Disney World vacation booked . The agency then gives part of that commission to the agent who booked the trip – and keeps the rest for itself.

The ratio at which the agency and the agent share the base commission is called the commission split :

• Novice vacation planners usually start out receiving 50%-60% of the commission the agency receives for each booking (though some agencies pay less)
• Over time, this can increase to around 70%-80%
• Some agencies offer a better commission split for clients you find on your own (as opposed to leads given to you by the agency)

Here’s a realistic commission example for a $5,000 Disney World vacation:

• The agency receives a base commission of $500 ($5,000 x 10%)
• An agent on a 50/50 split would earn $250 ($500 x 50%)
• An agent on an 80/20 split would earn $400 ($500 x 80%)

Commission split ratios determine how much money you earn

A 10% base commission is standard for all Disney World vacations. The most successful agencies may earn a higher percentage on other types of trips (such as 16% on Disney Cruises).

As an example:

• 50/50 split: $250 for the agent
• 80/20 split: $400 for the agent
• 50/50 split: $400 for the agent
• 80/20 split: $640 for the agent

Use our Disney Travel Agent Commission Calculator to see how different commission rates will affect your income.

Client Incentive Deductions

Some agencies offer booking incentives to potential clients. Maybe you’ve seen agencies offering a Disney gift card upon booking, or perhaps an onboard credit to use on a Disney Cruise.

When those are offered by an agency, it’s common for the value of that promotion to be deducted from the base commission before the remaining amount is split between the agent and agency.

Delayed Commissions

This is one of the most important things to know about working as a Disney travel planner.

Disney pays commissions after the trip is over . You don’t get paid when the client books the trip, only when they travel .

This means there can be a long delay between the time you book a trip and the time you get paid for it.

Most people plan their trips far in advance. It could be several months – even a year or more – before you get paid.

For that matter, the client could cancel the trip and you would not receive any commission at all .

This can be discouraging to newer agents who don’t have many client trips lined up. You can easily feel like you’re working hard and not seeing any income from it.

This becomes less of a concern as you become more established. You’ll eventually have clients traveling year round and your income will be more steady. Stick with it!

Planning Fees

Recently, many planners have begun charging their clients a planning fee or research fee. These are non-refundable upfront fees to cover the work the agent will do for the client. It is especially common in smaller agencies which may not have a steady flow of bookings.

Agents who charge the fee say it protects them from “working for free.” (Creating trip quotes takes work, but agents don’t get paid if the client doesn’t book or cancels.)

Those who don’t charge fees say doing so would drive away potential clients. (The client could book the trip on their own without paying a fee.)

Whether or not to charge the fee is a business decision that is usually made at the agency level.

Our research shows most major Disney-focused travel agencies do not charge these fees .

2. Watch Out for Shady Travel Agencies

Sadly, not all travel agencies are on the up and up. Some are outright scams.

Here are a few things to consider.

What’s the hiring process?

Beware of any agency that automatically hires you without an interview. This is a strong sign that they have no minimum standards. They might be bringing you onboard just to charge you fees (see below).

It’s reasonable to expect a phone interview before being hired. Ideally, you’ll interview with the agency’s owner or senior manager. That’s a good sign they take their business seriously.

Do they charge you a fee to join?

Some travel agencies operate like multi-level marketing schemes. Others simply try to get as much money as they can out of the people they “hire.”

Potentially scammy fees include:

• Charging you hundreds of dollars in startup fees (a major red flag)
• Requiring you to pay monthly affiliation fees
• Making you pay for your initial training

There are , however, a few legitimate fees you might be charged:

• Errors & Omissions insurance. (This offers financial protection for booking problems.)
• A small technology fee to cover licenses for client management software
• FAM trips and on-site education may require a fee. (These are usually heavily discounted.)

Is their commission split fair?

We suggest avoiding any agency which gives you less than 50% of the commission earned on a trip. You are doing most of the work; we think you should get at least half of the money the agency receives for it.

Check their licenses and professional memberships

Some states require travel agencies to hold Seller of Travel licenses.

For Disney-focused agencies, Florida and/or California licenses are common. Agencies often post these license numbers at the bottom of their websites. You can check online to ensure they’re valid.

• Florida Seller of Travel License search
• California Seller of Travel License search

Disney travel agencies also typically join at least one of the major travel industry groups, such as:

• International Air Transport Association ( IATA )
• International Airlines Travel Agent Network ( IATAN )
• Cruise Lines International Association ( CLIA ).

3. Become a Disney Expert

Anyone who expects to be hired for this job must be well-versed in all Disney Destinations. Before you submit a job application, you should first brush up on your Disney knowledge.

How can you educate yourself?

There are tons of online resources to keep up with the latest Disney news. Read Disney websites, planning guides , and TripAdvisor reviews . Watch Disney YouTube channels . Browse the hundreds of resources published here on MagicGuides, such as our crowd calendars and transportation maps . Ask friends about their experiences and recommendations. Join Facebook groups and chat with your fellow Disney fanatics.

What should you learn about?

Becoming a Disney travel planner doesn’t just mean learning about Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Disney Cruise Line vacations are especially popular (and pay good commission). Adventures by Disney travels around the world . Someone might ask you to book Aulani (a Disney resort in Hawaii).

Go beyond the mouse

You’ll need to know about more than Disney. Most Disney travel agencies also book trips to Universal Orlando Resort . Maybe it’s time to brush up on their newest theme park .

Some agencies book all-inclusive Caribbean Resorts such as Atlantis , Sandals , and Beaches . You might also book Royal Caribbean cruises or other cruise lines.

Learning about these now will make you a stronger candidate when you apply.

4. Know the Characteristics of the Perfect Disney Travel Agent

Each Disney travel agency has its own set of criteria they require when hiring travel planners.

Among other things, you’ll need to be:

• Passionate and knowledgeable about Disney theme parks
• Well-organized and detail-oriented
• Proactive and prompt when handling client bookings
• Solution-oriented with a keen sense of customer service
• Flexible and able to commit enough time to do the job right
• Trustworthy

Want to make sure you have what it takes? Review our article on the Character Traits of Successful Disney Travel Agents . It has the inside scoop, direct from the owner of an Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency!

5. Pick the Agency You Want to Work With

We previously discussed the red flags of a bad travel agency. So what makes a good agency to work for? Here are a few things to look for when picking which agency you will apply to.

Learn about Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agencies

Some of the best Disney travel agencies are Authorized Disney Vacation Planners . This is an official designation from Disney. It simply means the agency meets the highest standards of service and sales volume in the industry.

Authorized Disney Vacation Planner logo | Image © Disney

This elite ranking assures clients that they are dealing with a legitimate, Disney-approved agency. And it gives potential travel agents confidence that they will be working for a reputable agency.

Learn about Earmarked designations

Some Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agencies also show a tiered Earmarked status. These include:

• Earmarked Silver Producer
• Earmarked Gold Producer
• Earmarked Platinum Producer
• Earmarked Diamond Producer

Logos showing Earmarked Designations | Elements © Disney

These designations mean the agency is one of the highest-producing (selling) Disney travel agencies. Of these, Diamond is the highest level.

Joining a higher-tier agency has its benefits:

• Disney issues more comp tickets and FAM trips to Platinum and Diamond agencies.
• Higher-tiered Earmarked agencies also simply do more business than other agencies. That’s good for you as someone who works for commission!

If an agency is not Earmarked, does that mean it’s a bad place to work? Absolutely not (or at least, not necessarily).

You can find fantastic agencies who aren’t Earmarked yet because they’re brand new. Getting in on the ground floor can be quite lucrative as the business grows and new agents are added.

Just do your research; who runs the agency, for instance? We know of one newer agency, EnchantAway Travel , which was started by the owner of another major top-performing Disney travel agency. We have a feeling EnchantAway ’s agents are going to be well-set-up for success despite it being early days.

Size Matters, But It Isn’t Everything

You might be tempted to seek out a huge agency with hundreds of agents. An agency that big must be successful, right?

We’ve found that the best Disney travel agencies are neither too small nor too large.

• Agencies that are too small may not have the brand recognition or a marketing budget needed to bring clients to you. They may also lack the infrastructure, technology, or business savvy of larger agencies.
• Agencies that are too large can also be problematic. If they have over, say, 200 travel agents, chances are you will get lost in the shuffle. You don’t want to be just another number, a faceless member of the team.

Rather than focusing solely on size, a better question to ask may be: how are their agents doing?

Good Support Structure

A good agency will make sure its agents succeed. You should have solid training. The owner should be available to answer your questions. An agency doesn’t have to be large at all to make this happen – they just have to be dedicated to their agents’ success.

The best Disney travel agencies have a good support network in place. They promote an open and friendly (i.e., non-competitive) dialog between each of the agents.

There will inevitably be agents who know more than you at the start. The best agencies to work for will embrace these learning opportunities and support you along the way. Before long, you might be mentoring new agents!

Do they Market Themselves?

Marketing is key to success in the travel industry. You will be primarily responsible for marketing your own services . However, some agencies also spend their own resources to market their brand and bring in new clients.

Larger, more established agencies may have a prominent social media presence or high Google search ranking. Some agencies even pay to advertise their brand at no cost to their agents.

The best Disney travel agencies even provide client leads to their full-time agents. It helps to work for an agency such as The Vacationeer which sends extra business your way.

Ask Their Agents

See if you can reach out to current agents at the company to get some feedback on their working environment.

Questions to ask include:

• Do they like working there?
• Is the owner supportive and responsive?
• Is there open dialog among the agents?
• How is the training?
• Are they getting paid on schedule?

Getting the inside scoop from people who work at the agency can be very helpful.

6. Apply to Become a Disney Travel Agent

You’ve done all your prep work. Now it’s time to actually apply for the job.

Application questions will vary depending on the agency. Expect to provide basic contact information and work history. They also often ask how familiar you are with Disney destinations.

A typical application to become a Disney travel planner

When filling out an application, remember to be professional. This is a job application, not a group chat. Would you hire someone who writes “I want 2 work 4 u”? And don’t forget to proofread everything before submitting. Double check your email address and phone number so the agency can contact you. Make sure you answer all questions completely.

Ready to Apply?

You can get started right here on MagicGuides. Get additional hiring tips  and submit your application to our two recommended travel agencies by clicking the button below:

7. Be Patient

Now comes the hardest part – waiting to hear back.

In especially busy agencies, it could take upwards of a month to hear back on your application.

Don’t waste this time. Make sure you keep up with everything that’s happening at Disney and the travel industry while you wait.

If you get the interview (see next step), there may be more waiting afterwards. Don’t get discouraged!

8. Ace the Interview

If you’re fortunate enough to interview with an agency, you’ll want to prepare. Here are our top tips:

• If it’s a phone interview , make sure you’re in a quiet area free of family and pet noises. For a video interview , be sure to dress nicely and be well-groomed.
• Be “in place” and ready to go a few minutes early so you’re not rushing at the last minute.
• It’s understandable to be a bit nervous, but try to be as natural and friendly as possible ! Remember, you might never meet most of your clients in-person. Your interview needs to show how well your personality shines on a phone call or on a video chat. Be polite, engaged, and well-spoken. Speak clearly and don’t mumble. Don’t sound disinterested or distracted.
• Be prepared with a pen, paper and a copy of your resume to reference as needed
• Why do you want this job?
• What do you think is your greatest strength?
• What is your biggest weakness? (Tip: tell them how you’re working to fix it!)
• What unique traits would you bring to this job?
• When was the last time you visited Disney?
• What’s your favorite Disney theme park?
• What does a typical workday look like?
• What are your schedule expectations for me?
• What type of training will I receive?
• What resources will I have to succeed?
• What do you consider to be the sign of a successful agent?
• What is your commission split and how often are payments processed?
• Does anything about my work history concern you? (Tip: be prepared to respond!)
• If an agent underperforms, how do you help them?
• What is your timeline for filling this position?
• If you don’t like what you’ve heard, politely inform them that you’d like to remove yourself from consideration. No agency wants to hire someone who already wants to leave!
• Be sure to thank the interviewer for the time they spent with you!

9. The Offer: Get Hired

We hope your interview goes well and you’re offered a chance to join your preferred agency.

But don’t get discouraged if you’re not hired. Competition can be steep and it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a bad candidate. Find another agency and keep at it!

If you are fortunate enough to receive a job offer, it can be tempting to instantly accept.

• Make sure to thoroughly review the offer to ensure it matches what you discussed.
• You’re well within your rights to request 24-48 hours to consider the offer.
• If you’ve interviewed with multiple agencies, inform everyone else that you’ve accepted a position elsewhere. Agency owners do talk to one another – it’s not wise to burn any bridges.
• Promptly return any requested documents during the onboarding process. Expect to provide photo ID, an I-9 form , and to sign an offer letter or other agreement.

And that’s it! With your skills and effort, you can build a career planning Disney vacations.

But! You still have work to do…

10. Market Yourself

Getting hired is a huge accomplishment, but it’s only the beginning! Now you need to build up a client base by marketing yourself. Your agency may provide some help, but you’re mainly responsible.

Friends and Family

A large group of friends and family is the best way to start. More connections mean more potential clients. Let everyone know that you’re ready to help them book their trips.

Don’t forget casual acquaintances, either. Your church, social clubs, and neighborhood are full of potential clients.

Many clients would rather deal with someone they know – even just a little – than a total stranger.

Social Media

Social media is a fantastic way to build a following. Successful Disney travel planners create dedicated accounts just to market their services. Facebook pages and Instagram accounts are common choices. Some agents have a large TikTok or YouTube following. And there are many other platforms.

Consider creating a Facebook business page to market your travel services

Find the platforms you’re most comfortable with and begin posting. Invite your friends to follow you, and ask them to invite their friends.

Everything you post is another reminder to your followers that you are ready to plan their next Disney trip. Consider posting:

• Special offers and promotions
• News and updates from the destinations you book
• Content produced by your travel agency
• Sample trip itineraries and prices
• Pictures and videos from your latest trip
• Photos and testimonials from clients (get their permission first!)

The possibilities are endless! But remember: anything you post must follow Disney’s and your agency’s guidelines.

And remember, social media is social ! Be sure to regularly interact with comments/replies. Respond promptly to direct messages.

Direct Marketing

Your agency may send email or postcards to your clients. In some cases, these are generic messages from the agency as a whole. Or they may appear to come directly from you. Either way, they keep your clients engaged and eager to book with you.

Regular emails keep clients informed and engaged

Repeat Business and Word-of-Mouth Referrals

Do a good job planning people’s vacations and you’ll soon start to get repeat business.

Happy clients come back again and again – and they tell their friends!

Successful agents agree: repeat clients and referrals are essential to their success.

Remember, everything you do counts toward your reputation! Treat every client like a VIP every time and it will pay off for decades to come!

If you’re on the fence about whether you should apply or not, here are some considerations to think about. I’ll weigh the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

Income Considerations

Travel agents who focus on Disney vacations can make good money if they’re willing to put in the effort. Being a Disney Travel agent is a job , not a hobby. And it’s a career in which what you put into it directly influences what you get out of it.

Disney vacation planners receive commission rather than a salary or hourly wage, which can be both a pro and a con. You can make virtually unlimited money (in theory). But you can also make… well, nothing . And having an irregular income can make it harder to budget for yourself.

The agents who are most successful financially are those who:

• Are self-starters
• Treat it as a full-time career
• Build up a reliable client base
• Regularly market themselves and build a social media following
• Work with an agency that offers a favorable commission structure

Doing What You Love

If you are a Disney fanatic, being a Disney travel agent may sound like the ultimate dream. You spend each work day thinking about, talking about, researching, and booking Disney Destinations. What could be more rewarding than getting paid to do what you love?

That said, burnout is a real risk. If Disney is your work, then sometimes going to Disney can feel like going to work.

And you can’t simply walk away — if you get frustrated with planning your own vacation, you can take some time off and come back to it later. Clients, no matter how difficult, won’t be willing to wait for you to get your pixie dust back.

Work from Home… or Wherever

One of the best benefits of a job booking Disney Vacations is that you can work from wherever you like (within reason).

For most people, this means setting up a quiet corner or extra room in their home to serve as their “office.” Some agents are full-time RVers. Others might have a favorite café or local park where they do their best work. I know of at least one travel advisor near Orlando who sometimes works from Magic Kingdom or EPCOT!

You probably won’t be allowed to work from HQ at Men in Black: Alien Attack. But you might be able to visit!

Just make sure that working from home is right for you. On the surface it seems fantastic, but you have to be of the right mindset. You’ll need the discipline required to get everything done without a boss hovering over your shoulder. And some people are surprised to find out that they miss the camaraderie of office co-workers.

Flexible Hours

As independent contractors, travel agents generally have the freedom to set their own schedule. Prefer a day shift? More of a night owl? Need to pick up the kids from school? The flexibility of being a travel agent makes it all possible.

Just keep in mind that flexibility goes both ways. Clients may contact you early or late. There will be days you must be up at 6:00 AM Eastern Time to get the best possible dining reservations for a client. And your agency might have mandatory meetings or other scheduling expectations.

Those who have difficulty fully unplugging from work can find this bizarre schedule all the more challenging, leading to a sort of workaholism. For others, knowing that no one’s watching you “punch the clock” can lead to the temptation to sleep late and duck out early. Either way, your paycheck and mental health can suffer if you’re not disciplined.

Potential Tax Benefits

When booking Disney is your business, then visiting Disney can be a business expense!

Any Disney vacation you go on may be tax-deductible as a research expense if certain conditions are met. This ends up being a great perk for anyone that already spends a lot of time at Disney destinations. Other business expenses, such as office supplies and phone bills, may also be deductible.

Just remember that deducting business expenses requires that you keep very detailed records and receipts, and it can make your tax return much more complicated. You might even need to hire a CPA or other financial professional, which could eat into the savings.

Disclaimer: We are not accountants. Please consult an expert before attempting to write off these expenses.

Free Tickets and Discounts

Agents who sell travel are eligible to receive freebies and discounted travel opportunities.

Free Disney and Universal Tickets

Each graduate of the College of Disney Knowledge (Disney’s online training program) receives a free one-day Walt Disney World Park Hopper ticket each year.

Tickets are “on the mouse” for travel agents (once per year)

Travel agents who complete the Universal and U training program receive a free 3-Day Universal Orlando ticket.

Your agency may also receive Comp Tickets (complimentary theme park tickets). These are additional free tickets which may be given to travel agents as an incentive.

Travel agents who have a valid IATA/IATAN or CLIA membership card can get discounts on Disney and Universal theme park tickets or hotel stays. Friends and Family discounts may also be offered.

But even free and discounted tickets can lead to more expenses. If you don’t live near the parks, you’ll need a hotel, maybe airline tickets, food money, and more. Consider tickets a nice perk, but not necessarily a major money-saving strategy.

A FAM trip (familiarization trip) is a chance for travel professionals to experience a destination for themselves. For example, Disney World or Universal Orlando might invite agents to visit for free or at a discount so they can experience a new hotel or ride. FAM trips also help build comradery within a travel agency. They can be a great learning experience and are a lot of fun!

Travel agents on a FAM trip at Universal Studios

Top-tier agencies tend to receive more FAM trip opportunities than smaller agencies receive.

Some of the largest agencies even have on-site conventions for their agents!

A panel discussion during an on-site convention of Disney Travel Planners

This is yet another reason to seek out a job with a high-level Disney travel agency. You’ll have access to more perks. But again, keep the potential associated expenses in mind.

How much do Disney travel agents make?

A well-established Disney travel agent can reasonably earn $50,000 per year , assuming that they:

• Work full-time
• Join a high-performing agency
• Have favorable commission splits
• Market themselves often
• Receive additional leads from their agency
• Have a steady stream of bookings
• Have earned repeat business and referrals

The pay can be much lower or much higher depending on the number of trips booked and how much those trips cost.

Agents who just book a few vacations for family and close friends might make only a few hundred dollars per year.

It is possible (though not common) for exceptionally successful agents to make hundreds of thousands of dollars.

When do you get paid?

Disney travel professionals get paid after their client has traveled . This may be anywhere from a couple of months to more than a year after the trip is booked. Some Disney Cruises are booked upwards of 18 months in advance.

What equipment and software do you need?

Almost everything you do for a client will either happen online or over the phone. That means all you really need to become a Disney travel planner is a computer with internet access and a telephone.

But there are some additional pieces of equipment that can make the job easier. See our Essential Equipment List for Disney Travel Agents for further details.

Do I have to join an agency? Can I become a Disney travel agent on my own?

It is possible to go solo as a Disney travel planner , but you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons.

Being an individual agent means you don’t have to split commissions with anyone. You get the entire amount for yourself. And you truly are your own boss.

But you won’t have any help marketing yourself or getting leads. You’ll start out with zero reputation and can’t “stand” on your agency’s established good name. And you’ll be solely responsible for following all laws and licensing requirements.

For most people, it makes more sense to join an agency – especially as a brand new agent. Solo Disney travel agents are rare.

Do I need an LLC?

Most travel agents are considered independent contractors, even when affiliated with a travel agency. As a result, it is often wise to avail yourself of the legal protections that an LLC provides .

Consider a worst-case scenario in which a client sues you for financial damages. Having an LLC may help shield your personal assets if a court rules against you.

Many agents also purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance . This further shields them from potential financial liability.

Disclaimer: we are not lawyers and nothing here should be considered legal advice.

Do you need a license to sell Disney vacations?

Several states require a Seller of Travel license . Severe financial penalties may be levied against unlicensed agents.

The travel agency you work for should have a Seller of Travel license which covers all its individual agents. You might still need to complete an exemption form or meet some other requirements.

Depending on your local regulations you might need a business license . Check with your city, county/parish, or state licensing bureaus to verify requirements.

How do taxes work for travel agents?

Earlier in this article we mentioned that some of your expenses may be tax deductible. But what about income tax itself?

Most travel agents work as independent contractors for their agency. This means you probably won’t have taxes withheld from your paychecks. Rather than a W-2, you’re more likely to receive a 1099 form at year’s end.

You may need to pay quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties at tax time.

Disclaimer: We are not tax professionals. Consult an expert for specific advice on your situation.

Do I need a College Degree?

A college degree isn’t necessary to become a travel agent. You don’t even necessarily need a high school diploma.

Do I need to go to Travel School?

Most Disney-focused travel agencies do not require their agents to have formal training such as travel school.

Do you need experience to become a Disney Travel Agent?

People who have already worked at travel companies are certainly at an advantage. But most Disney-focused agencies accept new hires who’ve never done any type of travel work before.

You will , however, need to have experience visiting Disney World. Very few Disney-focused agencies are willing to hire someone who knows nothing about Disney.

What’s the training like?

Disney, Universal, and other travel providers offer free online training on their products. You’ll be asked to complete those once you’re hired.

The training typically is just a series of online videos or slides, perhaps followed by a quiz. You can typically complete this at your own pace. It usually won’t take more than one or two days of your time.

Your agency may also have its own training. (That’s a great question to ask during your interview!)

And your training never really stops. It’s reasonable to expect regular refresher training on the destinations you book.

Can I work part-time?

It is possible to work part-time as an agent, but you’ll need to find an agency that supports it.

Most agencies prefer full-time agents rather than part-timers. The agency must commit a significant amount of resources to train and onboard a new agent. They want that investment to pay off with many bookings and large commissions.

There are, however, some agencies which are open to accepting part-time workers. As an example, Enchantaway Travel embraces part-time agents and happily hires them.

Just remember, your income potential will be significantly limited if you only work part-time.

Do Disney Travel Planners have to live in Orlando or Anaheim?

Not at all! You’ll want to visit Disney at least once every year or two (so you can keep up with what’s happening). But it’s not necessary to live in the shadow of Cinderella Castle!

Do Disney Travel Agents sell other destinations, too?

Absolutely! It’s common for most Disney-focused travel agencies to sell:

• Disney World
• Some international Disney theme parks
• Disney Cruise Line
• Adventures by Disney
• Hilton Head Island

• Universal Orlando Resort
• Universal Studios Hollywood
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Norwegian Cruises
• Virgin Voyages
• Atlantis Bahamas
• Sandals Resorts
• Beaches Resorts

This list might seem daunting. But remember: more options means more chances to book something for your client. And that means more chances to earn a commission!

When I taught Disney Traditions to new Disney Cast Members on their first day at work, there was one thing we wanted them to remember above all: “We Create Happiness.”

Being a Disney-focused travel agent is no different.

Every day, you’ll be sending people on vacation. They’ll be excited to talk to you – and you’ll be excited to talk to them. There’s really nothing like the feeling of knowing someone is having the time of their life because of something you made possible.

I wouldn’t dare promise that every single moment will be Mickey Ears and Pixie Dust. You’ll work hard. There will be early mornings, late nights, and hectic booking days. It requires discipline, initiative, and the right attitude.

But for most agents, those photos of happy clients smiling in front of Cinderella Castle make it all worth it .

I know we’ve covered a lot in this article. It may seem overwhelming or scary. It might even seem impossible. But, as Walt himself once said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible!”

I wish you the best possible success as you begin this journey. Go make some magic!

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Check out our additional travel agency employment tips  and submit an application directly to two excellent Disney-focused travel agencies by clicking the button below:

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Good tips here. Wish I’d known some of this when I started out.

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How to Become a Disney Travel Agent – Complete Guide

• How do I become a Disney Travel Agent?

Ever since we started Pixie Vacations we get asked how to become a Disney Travel Agent?  So we created this Disney Travel agent complete guide to help you out and hopefully give you a good understanding what it takes to sell Disney vacations.

First I want to start by saying you are not technically a “Disney Travel Agent”  you would be a Travel Planner that specializes in Disney vacations and you would be working for a travel agency.  If you are looking to work for the Disney Company at their Central Reservations (CRO) this is a different job altogether.

• What we are going to cover
• What is a Disney Travel Agent AKA Travel Planner that specializes in Disney destinations?
• How do I become a travel agent that sells Disney vacations?
• What to look out for and what questions to ask to be a travel agent.
• We will cover the skills you should have to sell travel.
• We will get in-depth into some marketing tips, and also cover frequently asked questions about becoming a Disney travel agent.
• What legal pitfalls to avoid and helpful links to do your homework before becoming a travel agent.
• What is a Disney Travel Agent?

In most cases you will need to find and apply at a travel agency.  We will go over what to look for in a travel agency later in this article, so don’t worry.  Also in most cases you will be selling Disney Destinations as an independent contractor and your “Title” will be a travel agent that specializes in Disney vacations, not “A Disney Travel Agent” because you are NOT working for the Walt Disney Company.

To find travel agency’s just do a google search on: “How to become a Disney Travel Agent”,  “Be a Disney Travel Planner”, “How to sell Disney vacations”, and search terms like this.

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s get into what to look for in a Travel Agency.

• FirstHeading

How to pick a Travel Agency

What are the advantages to being a travel agent that sells disney vacations, what other advantages are there for disney travel agents, disney travel agent (dta) training, which disney focused travel agency should i work with, commissions and commission splits, when do you get paid, red flags and scams, support systems at the travel agency, what skills do you need, seller of travel licenses and legal questions.

• It's awesome to be a Disney Vacation Planner

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Doing your research is key.  There are loads of travel agencies that have travel planners that work as contractors offering Disney Vacations and it can be overwhelming.  Start with the owners of the travel agency.  Do some basic research on each travel agency.

• Does the travel agency have a professional looking website?
• Can you find the owners name, address, phone number and email on their website?
• Does the owner answer the phone or call you back?

I know this sounds really basic but you can tell a great deal from the travel agencies website.  If you can’t call the travel agency this is a red flag.  If you can’t speak with them then how are clients supposed to speak with them if there is a problem?  You should be able to talk with someone, that’s what your clients will expect and you should expect.

Who are the owners?  What is there experience in travel and with the Disney Company?

Does the travel agency have travel agents already?  If so email a few and ask them how they like the travel agency, how long have they been there?

We will get into more ways to determine which travel agency is a right fit for you indirectly in some of the following topics below.  Let’s move on.

You might hear that you get to travel for free.  You get to stay at Walt Disney World and Disneyland hotels for Free.  Not exactly.  There are Disney travel agent benefits but if you want to be a travel agent just for the benefits this is not the job for you.  The Disney travel benefits should be looked at as extras you earn for becoming a successful agent that sells Disney travel destinations.

There are travel agencies out there that will ask you to pay them a fee $300 – $500 to join them and in return they will let you get a CLIA ID card or access to the Disney booking site.  This is not how you should become a travel agent in our opinion.  This should be a job, not something you do for a CLIA card.

Let me step back a little.  To get travel agency benefits like discounts on a hotel room you need either a CLIA or IATA Agent ID.  To get a CLIA Agent ID card this is what you need according to CLIA’s website:

CLIA card requirements

To qualify for CLIA Individual Agent Membership (IAM), your affiliated agency must be a current CLIA Travel Agency Member. CLIA recommends that agents generate a minimum of $5,000 in total agency commissions from cruise bookings within the 12 months prior to enrollment.

So to obtain this card they recommend that you have sold $5,000 in COMMISSIONS in your PRIOR 12 months in CRUISE bookings.  IATA has similar requirements but they don’t just focus on cruise bookings.

You will need your CLIA or IATA Agent ID card to be able to register for travel discounts.

Also you need to meet your travel agencies requirements and also the vendors requirements to be able to get the travel deal.  So there are many layers to being able to save a little on a room.

Again, don’t focus on the travel discounts, they are not worth it.  You need to focus on selling vacations and offering exceptional service to clients and help them plan their most amazing vacation ever.  If you do that your sales will come and you will be on your way to being able to apply for a CLIA or IATA agent ID card.

Work at home .  Most positions are as independent contractors (IC) and you can work your own hours and work from home.  Like any job the amount of time and effort you put in will help determine how well you do.

Money / Commission.   You will get paid a commission in most travel agency positions as an IC.  So when someone books a vacation with you, you will get a percentage of the commission.  We will go over travel agent commissions in more detail in this article.

Travel.   Depending on the travel agency you sign up with, you might be offered training trips or FAMS.  These are Familiarization trips that travel vendors and travel agencies do to show you resorts, on-site training, excursions, etc.  These FAM trips can be free or offered at a discounted cost and usually for the FAM cost you will get a room, training, and some meals covered.  Getting to the FAM is normally not covered so you would pay for your flights.  For Example a Universal Studios Orlando FAM can cost around $300-$400 for the FAM fee.  This of course varies so don’t quote us on these costs.

FAM Trips – Also depending on the agency you work for could determine if you get invited to a FAM trip.  If you want to learn more about Sandals and Beaches Resorts and your agency does not sell that much of those properties you might have a harder time getting onto a FAM trip with that vendor for example.  Travel vendors are not looking for people that want a discounted vacation, they are looking for travel agents that truly want to learn and sell their destination.

When you join a travel agency they will get you a Disney Travel Agent (DTA) account.  This is where you take the Disney College of Knowledge Classes, book Disney vacations, read Disney News, and this is your central hub for Disney Marketing pieces too.

The Disney College of Knowledge is free.  You should not be paying a travel agency for access to DTA.  The College of Knowledge has online classes that will get you up to speed on all the Disney destinations and offerings.  Here is the link to Disney Travel Agents .

You need to complete all of these Disney College of Knowledge online classes to be able to take advantage of travel agent Disney offers, like a free admission ticket to the parks.  Don’t worry the online Disney training is not difficult.  You will watch the training section videos of Disneyland, Disney World, Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Line, etc and take an online quiz at the end of each section.

You could complete all the Disney College of Knowledge classes in a day if you set yourself down and just go from beginning to end.  It would be better if you dedicated at least a few days to complete the Disney College of Knowledge training classes.  Other Family vacation destinations like Universal Orlando Resort also have online training .

There are many things to look at before selecting a Travel Agency that specializes in Disney Vacations.

• Does your travel agency sell other things besides Disney? If not will you be losing business when your client wants to go on a Royal Caribbean cruise, to an all inclusive resort, book a honeymoon, etc. and will your client come back to you and remember you 5 years later if they want to go to Disney again?

Here is the Earmarked logo for reference

• Is your Travel agency an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner or also known as EarMarked? An EarMarked Travel Agency has passed standards Disney requires to offer them this special designation.  If the travel agency does not have this logo on their website, then they are most likely not Earmarked.To determine if the travel agency is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can go to this website:  http://www.authorizeddisneyvacationplanners.com/   This will not tell you what level they are in the EarMarked program but it will at least tell you if they are Earmarked by Disney.  The agencies are listed in random order and you will have to reload the page several times to see them all.

Every travel agency starts someplace to become an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner so figure out if you want to start with a newer agency that is not Earmarked or an agency that  has already moved up the different status levels.  Every agency at one point was not Earmarked, so understand that you should not solely make your decision on picking a travel agency based on this EarMarked status.

You need to also know that just because a travel agent is EarMarked does not mean it is a good agency.  So do some research and contact other agents at that travel agency that have been there for several years and ask them how they like the travel agency, do they get paid on time, what support do they get, etc.

The reason you wanted to become a Disney travel agent should be to get paid.  Yes it can be fun and rewarding, but it takes long hours and at the end of the day you should get paid for your work.

Every Disney Specialized Travel Agency pays differently but most pay you commission.  You would not be an employee in this example, but an independent contractor that gets paid when you book a vacation for a client.

Travel vendors, like Disney, give Travel agents a commission.  This is NOT an extra cost added to a vacation.  It’s sort of like a finders fee.  When you book a Walt Disney World Vacation Package you get a commission for that booking.  If you search the web you can figure out what commission levels are for different vendors.  But for this example lets say you contact someone you know and they book a Walt Disney World Vacation Package with a room, park tickets, and the Disney dining plan staying on property at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort.  The cost of the Disney Vacation let’s say is $4,000.

Disney will pay a percentage of the $4,000 to the agency as a commission. So let’s say for this example that the commission earned is $400 to make for easy math that would be 10%.  Once the party travels Disney will send the $400 commission to the Travel Agency.  After the travel agency gets the commission check they will send you a percentage of that commission.  What you get depends on the travel agency you work for and what they pay their travel planners.  Some travel agency’s pay 40%, some pay only on certain types of bookings, some pay a flat fee of $25 – $50 per booking no matter what is booked.  The majority of travel agencies pay 50% to 90% commission.   So  in our example the Disney vacation of $4,000 has a 10% commission that is a $400.  If the agency gives you a 50% commission split then you would get $200 and the agency would get $200.  This is just an example with made up numbers and percentages, but it should give you an idea how commissions with vendors and agencies work.

The more you sell with some travel agencies the higher commission levels you reach. So you might start at 40% commission and then go to 50% and then to 60% and so on based on your sales numbers with the travel agency.

This is also how travel vendors operate like Cruise Line Vendors for Example.

If you work for a small or new travel agency a Cruise Line vendor might be paying 10% commission to that agency.  As the agency sells more Cruise Line vacations the agencies commission level can go up to 15%, 16%, for example.

So your commission split that you get from your travel agency is important as well as the commission levels that travel agency gets from it’s vendors.

Simple Commission Split example:

Agency A – Gets 16% Cruise Line Commission $5,000 Cruise x 16% = $800.00 commission

Agency B – Gets 10% Cruise Line Commission $5,000 Cruise x 10% = $500.00 commission

You are making $300 more for just this one booking in this example so do your homework when you select a travel agency to work with.

Also equally important is what commission level you are getting from the travel agency.  Are they starting you at 40% or higher?  What commission goal levels do they have?

You will get paid AFTER the guest travels.  If you book a 2024 vacation and that’s years away, you are not seeing any of that money until that guest gets back from there 2024 vacation.  If the guest cancels you don’t get paid.

You will need a ramp up period to build a client base and then to book those clients every year and word of mouth referrals to grow.  This takes time and then you have to wait for those clients to travel.  So don’t plan on being a Disney travel agent and quickly quitting your day job, unless you really work non-stop and have an outgoing personality and sales background.

This is called the Complete Guide to becoming a Disney travel agent because we want to make sure you have the best and complete information to make an educated decision.  This section is not to scare you, but to make you aware of what could happen and how to be on the look out for scams.

First, when you got your first job did they ask you to pay them $1,000 to work for them.  No!  If someone is asking you to PAY THEM to Work for THEM that is something that should make you think twice.  Now I understand that travel agencies have costs to cover and even we charge a small fee to join because we have to pay for training systems, and other onboarding expenses.  So $100- $200 to get set up can be expected to invest in starting out.

Why can scams happen – Because you don’t get paid until after the client travels this has led some people to setup and run travel agencies as a way to rip you off.  Maybe they first created a small travel agency for fun and it just got out of hand, or maybe they have a background in doing this scam over and over again.  This is again why you need to do your homework when looking for a travel agency to join.  You can avoid a travel agency that is not going to pay you simply by contacting several of the agents that work there.  Contact agents that have been at the agency for several years (4-5 years min.) so you know they have a track record of payments and know whats going on at the agency.  If the agents are all new it’s hard to tell if agents have left because of issues with getting paid or if the agency is just getting started.

Disney pays Travel Agencies.  If you are working at a Travel Agency and not getting paid and are constantly told they are waiting for Disney to pay them, this is most likely not true.  You can contact Disney yourself and give them your booking number to see if it has been paid.

How the Scam works.  You join the travel agency and sell $200,000 in vacations but most of the people don’t really travel until 8 months or a year from now.  The travel agency also that you work for says they have 90 days to pay you.  So there is this long time line that the travel agency can have you booking vacations for them and not pay you.  When these vacations do travel and you still don’t get paid, you might be told that the vendor has not paid the travel agency yet, etc.  So now you might be owned $20k in commissions and another $20k in future not traveled commissions before you realize that the travel agency has no intention of paying you.

You can avoid all this by doing some research and not just signing up with any travel agency you come across.  Again this type of scam is also rare and just something you should be aware of.

Money and commission levels are important but a good support system is also just as important.

Look for a travel agency that has a focus on Disney and Family Vacations.

Do they have training?

Look for a travel agency that offers FAM (Travel agent training trips).  How many do they offer, when was the last one, and how much was it?

What is the owners background and what support do they offer?

Does the travel agency offer Leads?  Does the travel agency do marketing to get exposure for their agents and to get leads?

Does the travel agency have an account rep. at the different vendors you  are going to use that you can call if you have an issue?

What support is there when you need it?

What is the agency owners background?

More established travel agency’s will have a dedicated rep. at each vendor to help if there is an issue.  You might also have a special phone line you can call to book with certain vendors if your agency is one of their preferred agencies.  This could cut down wait times when you are trying to book a vacation for a client.  Having account reps. also helps tremendously when you have a client at a property and they have an issue.

Does your travel agency have conference calls, webinars with vendors, and other ways to learn and share knowledge?

These are all things you should look for and consider when deciding on a travel agency.

To be successful as a Disney travel agent you need good communication skills.  You will need to put in the hours to learn the Disney Destinations, like Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and Adventures by Disney.  You also need to be more than just a big Disney fan.  This is a job and requires time to build up clients, keep clients, learn vacation destinations, and time to book and help your clients.  It will take time to get things going and being persistent is key.

You will be communicating with Disney and clients via email and on the internet, so an internet connection and a computer is needed.  A phone number / cell phone is needed and we would recommend a dedicated phone number so you can answer your phone professionally.  You can get a Google Number or other services offer free phone numbers so you can keep your existing cellphone and just change the ring tone.

You should be a people person.  Someone that can take little direction and just run with it.  You need to be comfortable talking with people.

You really should be a salesperson at heart and just decide to sell Disney vacations instead of another product.  If you can’t SELL this job will be difficult for you.  If you know and love Disney, that’s great, but you need to run this like a business and be able to sell the Disney destinations, organize client bookings, plan marketing and social media posts, attend local events and get out in your community or virtual community.

If you are the go to person at your church, school, business, or other clubs / events, you will have a base of customers to plan vacations for.

Technology skills are also helpful.  Posting on social media, marketing, emailing, etc all play into you being successful as a Disney travel planner.

Another Heads up section that is not so much fun to talk about but needs to be covered so you are aware.

I am not a lawyer so I would recommend you contact a travel lawyer, but here is how I understand the Seller of Travel Licenses requirements for Florida and California.

To sell travel your travel agency is required to have a sellers of travel license in certain states.  For example you should see Florida Sellers of Travel Ref No STXXXXX at the bottom of the travel agencies website and also CST XXXXXXXX for California’s Seller of Travel Licenses.  If you don’t see these on their website that travel agency can not market anyplace that a FL or CA resident might see a vacation offer.

With the Internet a consumer in FL and CA can see a travel offer anyplace.  So then it seems to reason the every travel agency needs to have this license.

If a resident from Florida or California sees a post, website, Facebook post or anything offering travel services, vacations, deals, that agency can be fined or worse.  If you as an independent contractor sell travel to anyone in these states you might come across issues.

How can you determine if the travel agency is registered in California?  Here is the CA Sellers of Travel Website Information:

“California requires all sellers of travel to register with the Attorney General’s Office and to display the registration number on all advertising. While not assuring that a company is reputable, a valid registration signals that the seller of travel has at least followed the law to be registered.”

Read more at the California Seller of Travel Website.

Check to make sure the travel agency has a CA Seller of Travel Licenses here.

From the CA Sellers of Travel Website:

“When you’re at a travel agency, ask to see the seller of travel’s registration acknowledgement — a one-page document issued by the Attorney General’s Seller of Travel Program. Be sure to check the expiration date to determine whether the registration is still valid.

You also may use the “ Seller Search ” feature on this website to assist you in determining whether a seller of travel is registered with our office. Since there are many similar seller of travel names, please spell out the full name and address of the company.”

From the Florida Sellers of Travel Website:

https://www.freshfromflorida.com/Business-Services/Sellers-of-Travel

“The sellers of travel law requires any person or business that is a seller or promoter of travel-related services to register annually with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), unless exempt. Sellers of travel are required to provide proof of assurance in the form of a performance bond, in an amount not to exceed $25,000, or $50,000 if they sell vacation certificates.

FDACS is authorized to collect registration fees and impose penalties for noncompliance of the law.”

Check to make sure the travel agency has their FL Seller of Travel License here.

Also you should make sure your travel agency has E&O Insurance.  This is Errors and Omissions Insurance.  They should be able to show you the current years binder page.

It’s awesome to be a Disney Vacation Planner

There is so much information here and some of it can be daunting, but being a travel agent that specialists in Disney vacations is also so much fun.  Yes it is work, but it can be rewarding planning vacations to the most magical place on earth.

If you would like to apply at Pixie Vacations please fill out our application form.

Application form Pixie Vacations

Step 1 of 3

What Social Media accounts do you have?

Previous experience.

Are there Disney classes for non-agents? I’ve been an agent in the past, however not a strictly Disney agent. I’m having a hard time trying g to get an agent position but would love to take classes.

Hi, The DTA classes are just for travel agents.

i would like to apply to be a travel agent

Hi, Christine,

Please write to [email protected] and be sure to include information about your qualifications, sales experience, networking or how you would generate vacation sales, etc. Thanks.

I have already completed the Disney training but would love to work with Disney vacations I am certified in cruises but really want Disney exclusively

Hi, Tammy, Please fill out the form enclosed if you have not already. Have an awesome day! 🙂

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How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

By Author Ziggy Oskwarek

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

• Pinterest 25

If you love the Disney theme parks as well as traveling, perhaps you have thought about becoming a Disney travel agent . But getting started in a new profession is easier said than done, so what steps do you have to take if you want to sell Disney vacations?

In this post, we are going to show you exactly what you need to know to become a Disney Travel Agent including all the perks and benefits you can get from being one.

We’ll cover how much you need to work, how much money Disney travel agents make, how you get paid, and what requirements you need to fulfill to make this your line of work. After all, with Disney vacations getting more and more complicated, guests always need someone to explain it all to them and to make the vacation planning process much easier and less stressful.

We’ll also show you what to look for in a Disney travel agency, how to prepare for your interview, what scams to be careful of, and the challenges you will face in this profession.

Of course, it’s not a dream job for everyone, and just because you love Disney, it doesn’t mean that you should necessarily make it your full-time job, so we’ll go over all the advantages and disadvantages of joining this profession and who is really best-suited for it.

Still, making money by doing what you love can be both thrilling and greatly rewarding so if Disney is your passion it may be the perfect career path for you either in a part-time capacity as a side hustle or to make a full-time income. If that is the case, we’ll cover what you need to know here.

Instead, if you don’t want to become an Authorized Disney Travel Planner yourself but are looking for one to help plan your next Disney trip, we highly recommend Show You the World Travel . They can help you get the best prices, they have amazing customer service and they are 100% FREE to use.

Before we get started, don’t forget to sign up for our FREE Weekly E-Mail Newsletter. There we bring you the latest Disney vacation planning tips including how to save money, where to stay, and the best things to do, which would be very helpful to know if you are planning on becoming a Disney travel agent. You can sign up here: Join our E-Mail Newsletter!

Table of Contents

What is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner (Travel Agent)?

An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is basically a travel agent that specializes in Disney vacations.  However, there is much more to it than just that.

The days of using the term “travel agent” are almost as old as the days of the dinosaurs, and Disney has adequately prepared vacation planners to be equipped with modern technologies to meet a different age of clients in the 21st century. 

With online booking these days seen as the norm with infinite amounts of popular booking sites, Disney utilizes specialized independent contractors who work with an affiliated travel agency. 

Remove the term travel agent from your dictionary and instead replace it with Disney Vacation Planner. These planners are specialized to deal specifically with Disney Vacations, from cruises to Disney World trips to Disneyland trips to Adventures by Disney trips. And the list goes on and on. 

These “travel agents” can book Disney vacations for guests over the phone, over the Internet, or through emails. They are NOT Disney employees and are instead independent contractors. 

What Perks Do You Get as a Disney Travel Agent?

Working as a Disney Travel Agent or Vacation Planner brings a number of tremendous benefits, especially if the agent is a big Disney fan. Here are some of our absolute favorite perks you get: 

Benefit #1 – Get Paid to Talk about Disney

If you love Disney, there are a few things you can do that are more enjoyable than talking about and helping other Disney fans plan the trips of their lives! You get to immerse yourself in Disney every day, talking about and researching the various different Disney Destinations. 

And if you love what you do, what can top that?!

Benefit #2 – Flexible Schedules 

While you do work for an agency as a Disney Travel Agent, you’re more or less your own boss. That means that you don’t have to have a set schedule and you can work your Disney Travel Business around your own schedule. 

You will likely need to accommodate your client’s schedules if you want to have success while meeting different Disney deadlines such as the 60-day mark for dining reservations . 

Many clients also will reach out to you in the early morning hours or late in the evenings, and you’ll likely want to get back to clients quickly if you want them to use you again, so you’ll need to be flexible and adaptable.

Benefit #3 – Work from Home 

One of the beautiful things about being a Disney Travel Agent is that you’ll do the bulk of your work likely at your home and while on the computer. Forget about dealing with traffic or long commutes to work!

You will likely need to take some phone calls and don’t necessarily need to be home for that, but the majority of your work will be booking for guests via emails and Disney booking sites. 

Benefit #4 – Set Your Own Hours 

Another amazing benefit as a Disney Travel Agent is that you can set your own hours. There is no clock to punch or someone telling you exactly when you need to work.

If you want to sleep in and wake up on the later side, go ahead! If you want to stay up late helping guests, you can do that too. 

Benefit #5 – Training Opportunities

As a Disney Travel Agent, you will have access to The College of Disney Knowledge so you can learn all about selling Disney properties. Your individual agency might also have other online and in-person training opportunities to expand your selling and destination knowledge. 

Benefit #6 – Personal Travel and Discounts 

Agencies offer different discount opportunities and even free park tickets at times, depending on your progress and sales. If you reach eligible qualifications you can get some nice travel incentives. 

Benefit #7 – Tax Deductions 

Since you’ll be an independent contractor, you’ll likely be able to get a number of different business deductions including portions of your Disney trips, internet costs, computer, and even potentially some of the cost of your home office.

*It’s always best to consult with a tax advisor for the current laws in your state before you begin writing things off. 

Benefit #8 – Make a good income 

If you treat your Disney Travel business like a real business, you can make a really nice income. Your income is completely commission-based meaning that the more vacations and trips you help people plan, the more money you can make!

If you’re a motivated person that is willing to learn how to grow your business, you can have great success and more money than you can make in some other professions.

How Many Hours Do You Need to Work?

Many different agencies have different views on how many hours you need to work, so it will depend on which one you choose. Many of them expect their independent contractors to begin their careers full-time with 40+ hour work weeks immediately. 

Other agencies allow their travel planners to start as slow or as fast as they want, allowing them to treat it as a true side hustle. If you want to spend 5 hours a week on it, that’s perfectly doable. Just make sure whatever agency you go with, you ask what is expected from the get-go. 

And like all things, the more you put into it, the more likely you’ll have success, and have it more quickly. If you don’t treat it as a business and just do a little here and there, you’ll likely not have the same kinds of success. 

How Do Disney Travel Agents Get Paid?

Let’s talk about the fun part, getting paid! And while it might seem like slow sledding at the beginning as an agent, Disney Travel Agents can make great money!

Most Disney Travel Agencies pay their agents in commissions, albeit some of them have slightly different commission structures. How it works is simple:

• Disney, as the travel vendor, gives agencies a commission on the final booking cost.
• The agency you work for will pass on a percentage of that commission to you.
• This does NOT add any additional costs to a vacation for guests, instead, Disney pays out a finders’ fee of sorts to the agency meaning that Disney makes less money on the vacation, not the guest paying more 

For instance, let’s say a guest books a vacation package with room and park tickets through you. Imagine the cost of this trip is $5,000 in total. Disney will then pay the agency a percentage of this. 

In many cases, it’s around 10%. So from this particular trip, the agency that you work for receives $500. Once the agency receives the payment from Disney, they’ll give you a percentage of that commission.

Generally, agencies will pay commissions between 50-90%. Agencies will raise the commission rates for agents that bring in more sales as incentives often. 

How Much Do Disney Travel Agents Make?

Like with most commission-based pay structures, a lot of that depends on you! How much you sell, the overall cost of the trips in which you book, the commission split with which your agency offers, and the total number of trips you sell will be the deciding factor! 

Some agents make tremendous income, and some agents make no money. It can be a great gig for a self-starter-type person that is willing to put in some work to build a business. 

Are there Minimum Booking Requirements

In some cases, there are minimum booking requirements, but that all depends on the agencies with which you work for. Some agencies have minimum booking requirements such as meeting a minimum dollar booking amount each year and others might expect you to make at least one sale a month. 

In that case, if you don’t reach the minimum booking requirement, you might lose your agent status or receive a decrease in your commissions. 

When Do You Get Paid?

Disney Travel Planners always get paid after the guest travels. So if you book a trip for a guest that isn’t traveling for another few months, you’ll need to wait until AFTER the trip is over. 

And if the guest cancels at the last minute, you unfortunately will not get paid, since the trip was never taken and Disney didn’t get paid from that guest.

As you can see, it’s important to continue to build up your client base initially when you first start. The payouts will be minimal for a little while until your clients begin going on their trips.

Don’t think you’ll immediately be quitting another job the second you start, you have to view it as a business, and eventually, it’ll grow if you continue to build your client base.

If you can keep a steady supply of trips booked, you’ll begin to see some money flying in, and in that case, you can evaluate if the money you make as a Disney Vacation Planner is enough to support you full-time or if you want to keep it as a side-job.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Disney Travel Agent?

Like with all businesses, being a Disney Travel Agent generally requires a little bit of an initial investment. Expenses that you’ll likely have at the beginning include:

• Hosting Fees – Monthly or annual fees for you to belong to an agency
• Registration Fee – Usually a small outlay of about $100 or so to get started with an agency
• Training and Technology Fees – These are additional fees that agencies use to get access to certain programs and emails that allow you to use certain software for your business. These fees can be $50 to $100 per month.

These are the main expenses! Usually, in total, it’s a couple of hundred dollars or so to get started. 

There are also what’s called “No-Fee Agencies” that charge no fees to agents. And while this seems nice initially when you have no clients, they often come with no benefits to new agents. You’ll be completely on your own, limiting your ability to get help if you need it. 

And with No-Fee Agencies generally comes significantly reduced commission structures. These types of agencies are attractive to Disney fans that just want to venture out and do this as a hobby and aren’t fully committed to doing this full-time. 

If you want to make a full-time career or livelihood out of this, you’ll likely be better off finding an agency that will offer you training and all the tools that you need to be successful quickly. While it might seem like a lot initially, the additional training will likely allow you to have far greater success quickly, enabling you to get your initial outlay of money back quickly. 

Make sure whatever agencies you choose have IATA (International Air Transport Association) and/or CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) accreditation. This will ensure you don’t get involved with any kind of scams. 

How to Become an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner (Step by Step)

If you’ve read through this so far and you’re considering becoming an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , here are the step-by-step instructions on exactly what you need to do to become one.

• You need to first join an authorized travel agency that is registered with Disney. Do your research and pick a good company that offers competitive commission rates while also being reputable and having a good reputation! Agencies that are in good standing with Disney receive “Earmarked” status with four levels of recognition – Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
• Make sure the agency is accredited by either CLIA or IATA and make sure they are in good standing with at least one of these organizations.
• Avoid companies that charge significant fees upfront when you apply, and be sure it isn’t an MLM organization that is simply looking to get your money when applying. A good agency will offer you the official Disney travel agent training course called the College of Disney Knowledge.
• Reach out to other agents in the company. Ask them questions that are pertinent to the agency. Ask about the training, ask about the commission structure and the rates, and anything else you think would be beneficial to know.
• If you begin to feel good about a particular agency, then apply online! Fill out the instructions carefully.
• Let the agency know about your experience and love for all things Disney on the application. If they see your enthusiasm and knowledge about the Disney brand, it’ll give you an advantage. Also, if you have any kind of previous sales or customer service experience it is a major positive.
• If the agency brings you on board, then make sure you have a dedicated work area in your house someplace and begin training immediately! 

It Depends If You are Already a Travel Agent or Not

While the steps above are mostly applicable if you’re not already a travel agent and are going to work for a Disney Travel Agency. But what if you are already a certified agent and want to sell Disney Vacations on your own? 

If You are Already a Travel Agent

While being a Disney travel planner is similar to being a regular travel agent, there are some additional criteria you will need to specialize in to sell Disney vacations. First, you’ll need to register for Disney-specific travel agent training on the Disney Travel Agents site .

After creating your account, you will need to complete the College of Disney Knowledge training, which will give you specific online classes and information about Disney Destinations and vacations. 

If You are Not Already a Certified Travel Agent

You’ll first need to become a certified travel agent prior to signing up for a Disney travel agent training course. The certification programs vary in terms of the cost and the necessary requirements. Once you’ve finished the program and have the necessary licensing to sell in various states, you can then register for the training mentioned above. 

*Remember this is ONLY necessary if you will not be working with an agency. 

Things to Look For B efore Choosing a Disney Travel Agenc y

When researching different Disney Travel Agencies, it’s important to look out for any concerns prior to committing to a particular agency. Here are our favorite things to look for:

• If the agency has significant upfront training course fees (more than a few hundred dollars) or registration fees, these could be MLM companies. Training should generally be provided by the agency free of charge. While reputable agencies likely charge a little bit of money for technology fees and insurance, these are never usually more than a few hundred dollars. 
• Check to make sure they have either IATA (International Air Transport Association) and/or CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) accreditation and that they want all of their agents to finish the College of Disney Knowledge.
• Make sure they are an Earmarked Travel Agency. This designation means that Disney recognizes this agency as meeting certain criteria and it also gives travel agents the confidence knowing that Disney trusts and relies on this agency to be a solid company. 
• Look for companies that are neither too big nor too small. If they have too many agents, you’ll likely not get the attention or help you need. If they are too small, they might not have the quality technology or training in place for you to have success. 
• Does the agency provide any kind of perspective client leads to their agents? The best agencies provide leads, allowing you to potentially get additional business, rather than being solely reliant on bringing all of your own customers to the table. 
• Take a look at online reviews of the agency by looking at sites such as Facebook and Google. Do customers have positive things to say about the agency? Have they had good experiences using the agency to book their trips? 
• It’s important to see that the agency provides a good and friendly working environment. Does the agency provide good support? Are the other agents friendly and willing to assist you? A good agency should feel as if everyone is pulling together and you can freely talk to the owner of the company as well as to the other agents. 

How to Prepare for Your Application and Interview

When preparing for your application and interview, it’s helpful to brush up on your Disney knowledge. Each application has very different questions. 

Different agencies look for different qualities and place a certain emphasis on certain levels of criteria. Qualities that they will likely want to see demonstrated during the interview process will be things such as:

• Passionate about the Disney Brand
• Well-versed in different Disney Destinations around the world
• Prior experience in customer service or planning Disney trips 
• Available to put in a lot of time and commitment 
• A social media presence can be helpful, and at the very least the ability to use social media
• Being a tech-savvy person that can easily talk clients through the booking process
• Have some capable sales qualities with closing abilities 
• A personable person that people feel comfortable with on the phone
• Ability to create your own leads through marketing means or a large network
• Organized and detail-oriented to be able to manage multiple clients and keep track of past clients. You’ll need to be reliable in helping customers book things at certain deadlines

These are just some of the qualities that will be helpful in ensuring you get brought on board by the agency you’ve well-researched. Make sure you try to highlight these points during the interview and the application process. 

Go to Disney College

Whether it’s the first agency you applied for or the 10th, it doesn’t matter. Congratulations! Make sure you have a great feel and excitement for the agency which hires you. If you’re going to devote years to building your business to this agency, you’ll be happiest if you love the agency.

Once you are hired and decide to take the position, you can begin Disney College! Training is done online and can usually begin immediately. The College of Disney Knowledge will help agents on each of the different destinations they offer including Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, and Adventures by Disney. 

The college sessions are done over Powerpoint presentations with voice-overs and you’ll be watching videos and visiting the Disney Travel Agent website for additional references. 

Take the course slowly, even though it’s only about 24 hours in total. Each lesson has a quiz and you’ll need to complete each of the core lessons and then take a 50-question quiz. It’s best to take notes if it’s something you’ll likely forget. 

You’ll be expected to know all of the different aspects of a Disney trip such as tickets, resorts, lands, parades, shows, etc…, which are crucial when you are answering questions from your clients.

Get Hired and Start Booking Vacations

After completing The College of Disney Knowledge and getting your IATA number, you can begin your travel agent career and book your very first Disney Vacation! Learn the ropes as you go, and you’ll feel more and more comfortable as you dive in and continue to follow any necessary training programs and support that the agency provides as well. 

You’ll likely want to build your social media accounts and start building an audience on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

Do Disney Travel Agents Get Free Trips?

The number one question I hear people ask is if Disney Travel Agents get to go on Disney vacations for free. While that would be AMAZING, generally speaking, the answer is no. 

Disney does not offer free trips to travel agents, although they do sometimes offer discounts on certain things such as the Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney. They might also receive benefits when booking different vacations such as receiving additional perks such as a room upgrade. 

In addition to that, many of the different agencies offer incentives for their agents that have high volumes of sales giving them free perks at times such as free park tickets or a hotel night. These aren’t provided directly by Disney, but if you are a high performer, you may get some free stuff!

Scams to Look Out for

There are a few additional things you need to look out for so you don’t get scammed: 

• If you’re told that you got the job but they then proceed to ask for $500 to work for them, it’s likely a scam
• If you’re working for a travel agency and aren’t getting paid, even AFTER your guest goes on their trip, it’s likely a scam
• If you see things such as membership fees, training fees, registration fees, or affiliate fees, it’s likely a scam

Can You Be a Disney Travel Agent Without an Agency?

Yes, you can be a Disney Travel Agent without an agency, but it’s complicated and will require additional work and money. 

You will need many different certificates and licenses that the various different agencies already have in place for you to work with different suppliers in different states. It’s a far greater risk and requires a much greater outlay of money and resources initially. 

Instead, if you work with an agency, you’ll be able to operate under their licenses which makes things much easier.

Can You Offer Disney Vacations and Experiences?

Yes! Once you’re an official Authorized Disney Travel Agent you can book Disney trips to all of the different Disney destinations, but you can also book other types of travel as well. This can range from hotels to cruises to Adventures by Disney Tours all over the world! 

You can also specialize in other forms of travel outside of the Disney Parks by adding other things to your repertoire such as Universal Studios, or thousands of other travel destinations as well! 

Many of the different travel agencies will offer free training courses to help their agents learn about different destinations and have the ability to specialize in other popular vacation destinations both domestically and internationally. 

Challenges You Face As a Disney Travel Agent

And while being a Disney Travel Agent has significant perks, it doesn’t mean it’s perfect all the time. There will be challenges and hurdles for new agents, especially in the early stages. What are these? 

• Finding Clients – It can be challenging to grow your initial customer base. You’ll likely need to be active on social media and talk up your services to people you meet. Finding prospective clients is the lifeblood of your business and if you can’t find customers, you’re not going to make money. The good news is most agencies offer great training to help you find buyers.
• Continuous Education – Disney news comes out practically by the hour, and keeping up with all the latest happenings both at Walt Disney World and Disneyland can be a full-time job in and of itself! Imagine keeping up with all of the Disney Parks around the world and potentially other vacation destinations. You’ll need to keep educated to fully assist your customers on their trips.
• Working around Clients’ Schedules – Just because you CAN work when you want, doesn’t mean that’s in the best interests of your clients. Some clients have vastly different schedules than you, and you’ll have to meet their demands and work around when they have time to talk.
• Distractions at Home – While working from home is wonderful most of the time, if you have children or distractions at home, it can be easy to lose track of what you need to get done, wasting valuable time that could be spent building your business.
• Monthly Fees – You will likely have some monthly fees, such as technology fees and insurance fees when working with an agency. While these aren’t much, when you aren’t making any money your first few months, it could set you back a little.
• Taxes – We love tax deductions by being an independent contractor, but if you’re not used to it, you’ll need to keep better track of your expenses and your income. You’ll likely want to set aside 25-30% of any income you make to pay taxes since commissions are NOT taxed. 

How to Choose a Disney-Focused Travel Agency?

While it’s important to choose a Disney Focused Travel Agency to partner with since you want Disney to be your main specialization, there are some other factors to consider when picking an agency. 

• Does the Disney Travel Agency have ‘Earmarked Status?’ If it does, that’s a major positive. While this isn’t a dealbreaker since it’s possible the company you are looking at hasn’t been around long enough for it to get this status. 
• Does the agency offer the ability to book other forms of travel for guests that choose NOT to book a Disney trip? Are these destinations that interest you, and do they offer training for these locales? 
• How long has the agency been in business? What are their reviews like on social media? 
• Is the agency owner freely available for you to speak to? Are there successful agents that you can speak to? 

Once you get a good feel for a potential agency, at that point it’s worth applying! Remember, there are a lot of agencies, and don’t accept the job if you’re not 100% convinced of the agency’s credentials.

The Best Disney Travel Agency

After explaining everything to look for and be aware of if you are planning to become an Authorized Disney Travel Planner, which agency do we recommend the most? To us, that is a no-brainer… Show You the World Travel .

You probably know that we recommend Show You the World Travel to our readers who need help planning their trips, but they are just as good of a company to work for as they are at planning guests’ trips.

If you are interested in becoming a Disney Travel Agent, go to their website here and contact the owner Rene Cittadino who will be happy to talk with you and see if it’s a good fit.

In fact, we have a friend who learned about them through this website and actually started working for them as a Disney travel agent, and she absolutely loves everything about it. She confirmed to us they are a great company to work for and they cover all the checkpoints we went over earlier in this article.

With her testimony, I am confident to recommend them to anyone wanting to start selling Disney vacations.

And if you are planning a Disney trip soon, please reach out to the friendly group of experts they already have working as agents. They will make your trip planning experience stress-free and help you every step of the way! Fill out a free request here .

Ready to Start Planning Your Disney Vacation?

If you feel overwhelmed planning a Disney vacation, use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner such as Show You the World Travel . They are experts on every Disney location and can tell you where to stay, what to do, how to save money, and give you personalized service for your most magical vacation ever!

That wraps up our look at how to become an Authorized Disney Travel Planner. If you are thinking about going to Walt Disney World in the coming future, here are some other popular articles where you will find all the info and tips you need to plan your trip.

• Disney World Vacation Planning Guide
• Disney World Crowd Calendar
• When are the Best Times to Visit Disney World?

Your Thoughts

I want to know what you think about our guide to becoming an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner…

• What is your favorite benefit of being a Disney travel agent?
• What important tips have you learned over the years that can help others if they want to become one?

Let us know in the comments section below!

If you enjoyed this article, as always I appreciate it if you’d share it with others via social media.  I work hard at making this website into a useful resource for you and your family to plan your visit to the Disney Parks and I hope it can help you! Thanks 🙂

My name is Ziggy and I love Disney, everything Disney! I grew up on Disney and it has and continues to be a huge part of my life. I started young when my parents took me to Disney World when I was 18 months old. Little did they know that would be the first of an uncountable number of trips we would take. I have so many amazing memories going to Disney with my family and friends and it has been interwoven into my DNA.

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Here's What You Need to Know Before Becoming a Disney Travel Agent

Do you dream of helping people plan Disney vacations? Check out this expert advice.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

If you love Disney, have impressive knowledge of theme parks, and consider yourself an expert vacation planner, you might have what it takes to become a Disney travel agent. A dream job for many fans of the Mouse, these travel agents spend their days talking about all things Disney and helping guests book unforgettable trips.

Sue Pisaturo owns Small World Vacations , a top Disney vacation travel agency, and has watched the industry grow for more than 25 years — so we asked for her best tips on how to become a Disney travel agent. Here's what you should know before embarking on a magical new career.

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

There isn't just one way to become a Disney travel agent, and the requirements and expectations vary depending on your goals, the agency's standards, and your location. Some aspiring agents want to work part-time to plan trips for their friends and family, while others pursue it as a full-time career. Either way, most agents work remotely instead of reporting to a physical office. States have different laws impacting travel agents, and many of these professionals are independent contractors, so it's important to educate yourself on the applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations to ensure that you and your agency are compliant.

There are learning programs, like the College of Disney Knowledge and modules on the Disney Travel Agents site, that can help agents deepen their knowledge of Disney destinations. But Pisaturo says the best preparation is first-hand experience. Go to the Disney theme parks, stay at the resorts, eat at the restaurants, go on a cruise with Disney Cruise Line or Adventures by Disney, and visit Aulani, Disney's resort outpost in Hawaii. It's important to familiarize yourself with the brand's offerings so you can effectively advise future travelers.

Disney travel agents spend their days helping guests plan magical experiences, so they need to stay up-to-date on Disney news and trends. Needless to say, most agents choose this career path because they love the company — but you'll need to have both passion and knowledge to be successful.

Finding the Right Agency

To be a successful Disney travel agent, you'll want to find the right agency fit, and there are a few basic things to know before you get started. Disney travel agencies provide a service to travelers by booking their trips, and Disney in turn pays those agencies — not the agents themselves — a commission. Each agency negotiates its own commission split with agents, so you'll receive a portion of the firm's earnings, as determined by your employer. Some agencies expect agents to find their own clients (many agents use social media to market their services), while others provide leads directly to agents. Travel agencies vary in size and policies, so Pisaturo suggests that you pose plenty of questions to your potential agency before signing on. Here are her top asks:

Fees: Do they charge upfront fees and, if so, what are they? Find out about any other fees the agency charges agents, including any for training and education.

Contracts: Are there any mandatory sales quotas or hours? Is there a contract for independent workers and, if so, how long does it last?

Agency support: How long have their agents been with them? (This can be a good indicator of satisfaction with the agency.) What support does the main office provide to agents? Does the agency provide leads, or are agents responsible for generating their own sales? Does the agency provide assistance with social media marketing, including information about Disney's rules and restrictions? How often are agents paid commission, and what method does the agency use to pay them?

Agency information: Is the agency an Earmarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and, if so, at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond level? Does the agency belong to Universal's U-Preferred program? (Since many travelers like to visit Universal and Disney parks in the span of one trip, it's helpful to know if your agency works with both brands.) Is the agency accredited by the Better Business Bureau? Does the agency belong to other professional associations? Has the agency been involved in any lawsuits with agents, guests, or vendors?

These are critical questions you'll want to ask before starting with an agency. Of course, it's always helpful to search the agencies you're interested in online and to check out their social media pages.

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How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

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Table of Contents

Why become a Disney trip planner?

How to become a disney travel agent, save money as a disney vacation planner, how much do disney travel agents make, final thoughts on becoming a disney travel agent.

If you’re a fan of Disney and you like to travel, it’s possible for you to combine these passions into a career or side hustle. By becoming a Disney travel agent, you can earn money by making bookings for clients and also save on your own Disney adventures.

Here's a look at how to become a Disney travel agent and the ways it can save you money and help you earn some cash while helping others make their Disney dreams come true.

As a Disney travel agent:

You can receive benefits on personal travel, such as discounted hotel rooms, free theme park tickets and complimentary Disney cruises.

You control your own schedule and how much you work.

You will be able to work from home in most cases.

You’ll earn a commission on successful bookings.

» Learn more: 10 ways to save on your first — or next — Disney vacation

Becoming a Disney travel advisor is similar to the process of becoming a regular travel agent.

First, you’ll need to meet specific travel agent requirements — but there are additional criteria needed to specialize in selling Disney vacations.

You’ll have to become familiar with Disney’s entire portfolio of products including Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Lines, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii and Adventures by Disney. In addition, clients may also ask Disney travel agents to book Universal Studios, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line packages.

If you’re already a travel agent , you can register for Disney travel agent training on the Disney Travel Agents website. Once you’ve created an account, you’ll need to complete the College of Disney Knowledge training, which includes online classes and information about Disney Destinations.

If you’re not already a certified travel agent , you’ll need to become one before signing up for Disney travel agent training. Certification programs vary in terms of cost, time commitment and requirements. Once you've completed a program, you can choose to join a travel agency or operate on your own as a small business. At this point, you can register for the Disney training.

Once finished, you’re eligible to become an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and entitled to all the benefits that the designation includes.

» Learn more: Do travel agents really save you money?

Disney travel agent benefits are one of the reasons to become a Disney vacation planner. Perks include special access to discounted hotel rates and other advantages, like:

Disney travel agent discounts

Disney travel agents can take advantage of discounted rates on accommodation and park entrance fees for their personal trips as well. This also applies to Disney branded hotels, in addition to other properties, cruises and excursions that include:

Disneyland Resort Hotels.

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels.

Adventures by Disney.

Disney Cruise Line.

Select all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.

The discounts will vary based on where you’re going, but you can expect to save up to 50%.

Adventures by Disney are guided vacation packages, which include Antarctic cruises, European getaways and more.

» Learn more: What a travel agent can do for you that a search engine can't

Complimentary Disney Park Hopper tickets annually

Businesses want you to be familiar with what you’re selling. After all, the better you know a place, the more capable you’ll be of helping clients choose the right vacation.

To that end, Disney provides Authorized Disney Vacation Planners with complimentary theme park tickets . As a standard Disney travel agent, you’ll receive a one-day Park Hopper ticket to either Walt Disney World or Disneyland each year.

Or, if you want to visit for a longer period of time, you can opt for discounted two- to 10-day Park Hopper tickets at Walt Disney World.

The highest-performing travel agents are recognized by Disney’s EarMarked. This invite-only program grants extra support and perks, such as additional complimentary theme park tickets.

» Learn more: Is the Disney Park Hopper worth it?

Discounted Universal Studios tickets

Cheaper tickets aren’t limited to Disney. As a Disney travel agent, you’ll also receive up to four half-price tickets to Universal Studios per year.

» Learn more: How to go to Disney World for cheap

Discounted Disney cruises and increased commissions

Disney cruise travel agents can also score reduced or free tickets to Disney cruises. Depending on the travel agency you work with, agencies with a high number of sales can earn increased commissions on sales associated with cruises.

» Learn more: How much does a Disney Cruise cost?

Disney travel agents work on commission, which means that they make money only when their clients book and complete vacations.

Disney pays up to a 10% commission to travel agents, depending on the package booked for the customer. Disney cruises yield a higher commission. If you’re working independently, you’ll receive the full commission amount — so if your client booked a $5,000 vacation pretax, you’d receive $500 in commission.

You can also opt to join an existing travel agency. These companies offer more support and can help you if you’re just getting started. Depending on the agency, it can also provide marketing support and send leads your way.

If you choose to join a travel agency , you’ll split your commission. The rate for this will vary based on where you’re working, but you can expect to receive up to 75% of the total commission Disney pays out.

This means that if you had a client taking a vacation that cost $5,000 pretax, Disney would pay the travel agency $500. At a 75% split, you would be paid $375. It’s less than you’d make if you were operating on your own, but it may be worth it for the added support and access to interested clients.

» Learn more: The best Disney resort for adults

There’s no denying that there are benefits to becoming a Disney travel agent. This includes free theme park tickets, discounted rates at official Disney hotels and even savings on cruises. Aside from these perks, you can also turn your passion into a job by selling Disney vacation packages to customers.

Whatever your reason for wanting to become a Disney travel agent, you’ll need to first become a certified travel agent, then complete Disney’s specialized training program.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-3x Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Visit the Happiest Place on Earth

Experience Epic Universal Adventures

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Disney+ Subscribers: Enoy a FREE Dining Plan at Walt Disney World

Free Dining Promo...

Valid 7/1 through 9/30/24

Save up to 15% on Select Stays at a Disneyland Resort Hotel on Sunday Through Thursday Nights

With this offer, save up to 15% off select rooms at a Disneyland Resort hotel on Sunday through Thursday nights from March 11 to June 6, 2024. Subject to availability and restrictions.

Valid from 3/11/2024 through 6/7/2024

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Save Up to 30% on Select Stays of 5 Nights or Longer This Fall

Plan a spectacular escape this fall at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi.

Valid 8/21/24 through 12/21/24

Disney® Visa® Cardmembers: Save 35% on Select Rooms for Stays of 5 Nights or Longer This Fall – Plus, Book Early to Receive a $150 Resort Credit

Cardmembers can save on an unforgettable stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi this fall.

Valid from 8/21/2024 through 12/21/2024

Save up to 30% on Rooms at Select Disney Resort Hotels When You Stay 5 nights or Longer this Summer and early Fall!

Guests can stay longer to save more, with up to 30% off a stay at select Disney Resort hotels for bookings of 5 consecutive nights or more; save 25% on shorter stays.

Valid from 8/08/2024 through 10/03/2024

Disney® Visa® Cardmembers: Enjoy this Delicious Meal

Disney Visa Cardmembers: Enjoy a FREE dining plan when you use your Disney Visa Card to purchase a nondiscounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package.

Valid from 7/01/2024 through 12/21/2024

Trips booked: 13850 and counting…

Why Choose Me and the Mouse

We deliver stress-free dream vacations. Since 2012, Me and The Mouse has created unique, memorable, and affordable vacation packages for travelers and their families. This includes Universal Studios , Disney Land , and other destinations. As certified vacation planners, it’s our job to make sure your trip is magical, stress-free, and special.

1. Fun for Everyone

Our travel agents create and organize trips that include fun for the whole family. Thrill rides? Shows? Food? A themed cruise? Let us know what you’re looking to do!

2. A+ Communication

Your agent will be with you throughout the vacation planning process (which can take weeks if not months!). Any questions, our team is here to help.

3. A Personal Touch

Our team has actually been to these locations not once, but multiple times. Whether it’s a stay at Universal, Disney, a cruise, or a resort, we know the ins and outs of each adventure.

4. Travel Planning

A destination vacation shouldn’t be a burden. Our agents are here to help you plan your trip and make sure you’re not second guessing your packing and logistics.

5. Affordably Magical

We understand that a trip can be a major burden on household expenses. It’s our priority to make sure we plan adventures that fall within your budget and match (and exceed!) your expectations.

6. Discover Together

Our agents at Me and The Mouse Travel appreciate feedback from travelers. This helps us create unique and comprehensive travel packeges for you and other families. See our Guestimonials .

We know Disney . We want to know you.

As Authorized Disney Vacation Planners , our FREE vacation planning services are compensated by our suppliers and we guarantee to save you money, time, and stress. We are dedicated to providing you a memorable and magical vacation where no detail is overlooked.

Ready to plan your Disney vacation? Get in touch with our knowledgeable travel specialists today.

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Immerse Yourself in History

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The Perfect Destination Vacations

Universal expertise for anywhere you want to go.

Have you ever wanted to step inside the magical world of Harry Potter, or see the stories of Dr. Seuss come to life right before your eyes?

Our dedicated travel agents who specialize in Universal Studios can help you plan the vacation of a lifetime. From choosing the best resort and dining experiences to live entertainment and specialty tours, we can handle every detail in the planning process from start to finish.

The Happiest Blog on Earth

Pack like a Travel Agent: Hat Edition

5/15/2024 • Blog , Tips • There are so many reasons to bring a hat with you on your vacation- no matter the destination. I always bring a hat for sun protection or warmth depending on the destination but have struggled with how to pack or carry my hat without causing damage to it. After years of trial and error, I am happy to share my best tips with you! The first thing you need to decide is how you’d like to carry your hat. If it’s an expensive hat, you probably want to pack it in its original box that it came with or simply wear it. If that isn’t an option. Here are some options for carrying your hat with you outside of a bag. The Bag Method If you need to keep your bag with you, a specialty tote bag made for hats is a great option. This allows a little extra protection […]

Exploring the Different Worlds of EPCOT

5/7/2024 • Blog , Walt Disney World • After you enter Epcot and take your picture by Spaceship Earth, the big golf ball, everyone rushes to their favorite attractions. Test Track, Soarin’, and Frozen Ever After to name a few. What some people don’t realize is that there’s a lot of really cool hands-on areas as well as having the opportunity to not only learn more about our world, but there’s also a lot to learn about some of the different countries that are part of our world. Epcot consists of World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery, and World Showcase. Within World Celebration, you’ll be able to learn about the history of innovation over the centuries while riding along in Spaceship Earth. It also includes Journey Into Imagination With Figment attraction and hands on activities within the Imagination Institute. Here you’re encouraged to stay and play with sensory activities and games that spark creativity. World Nature encompasses all […]

Discovering Paradise: The Allure of Antigua

4/29/2024 • Blog , Reviews , Sandals & Beaches • Are you dreaming of a tropical escape that combines pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unmatched luxury? Look no further than Antigua, a slice of paradise nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. Over the summer, I was chosen by the Tourism Board of Antigua and Barbuda to experience everything these amazing islands have to offer. This enchanting destination offers an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic retreat or families seeking an elevated escape with its breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and a myriad of activities to suit every taste. Let me tell you why this island is one that can't be missed! A Symphony of Beaches: One of the most captivating features of Antigua is it’s collection of stunning beaches that seem to be straight out of a postcard. Antigua is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Whether you're a sun-worshipper looking to bask in the warm […]

Resort Spotlight: All-Star Music

4/16/2024 • Blog , Walt Disney World • If you are a family dreaming of the benefits of staying at a Walt Disney World resort but have a limited budget, Disney’s All-Star Music resort is a value level resort you should consider for your next magical vacation. With a red carpet and backdrop to pose for pictures, your check-in experience at the All-Star Music resort turns into your debut as the newest music sensation. Walk outside and the fun starts for all. Pose for pictures in the Calypso section with the giant xylophone or bongos. Stop by the Jazz section to see the biggest drum set of your life. Are you more into country music? The banjo or harmonica might be calling your name. There isn’t anywhere you can turn outside without being reminded of the powerful influence music has on all our lives. All-Star Music features 2 different styles of rooms. The standard style room features a […]

“Hey Disney” Let’s Have Fun!

4/9/2024 • Walt Disney World • The fun doesn’t stop when you get to your Disney resort room. Adding a little Disney magic to your resort hotel stay just got a little more fun. In each resort room, you can now find the “Hey Disney” device which allows you to ask questions, play games and even get a character greeting. It’s easy and fun. You simply activate the microphone on the “Hey Disney” device and you are set to go. And when you are done playing, you simply turn off the microphone and the interaction stops. “Hey Disney, read me a story”, which is a great way to get your littles a bedtime story before dreaming of the fun day they had in the park. “Hey Disney, play a soundscape”, is a soothing way to drift off to sleep listening to their favorite Disney tunes. Other entertaining options are the ability to play trivia or even […]

Comparing Princess Meals at Walt Disney World

4/2/2024 • Blog , Walt Disney World • For families with little girls, booking a princess meal at Walt Disney World is high on the must-do list but with multiple princess meal options – which one is best suited for your family? Cinderella’s Royal Table is located in Cinderella’s Castle. Hosted by Cinderella, you will have your family picture taken with her as you wait to be seated. After heading upstairs, other Disney princesses stop by your table to visit, allowing for pictures and autographs. For those with a dining package, this meal will cost two table service credits per person. Without a dining package the cost per person will be one of the more expensive meals on property. As this restaurant is small in seating capacity, you may need to be flexible with your preferred dining time. Located in Epcot, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is wonderful choice. This meal features multiple princesses that visit your table. At […]

Our Clients Love Us

This is the second time we booked everything with Amy and WOW! She nailed it from start to finish. I cannot express how easy she makes the process. She knows it all, from the parks to the resorts and even character dining and other "things to do" We talked about everything from which attractions to visit first, down to the best place to get a stroller for our 4-year-old. She thought of EVERYTHING-was available any time I had a question and the care package we received was a magical "it's almost time" gift for my kids. Amy made our trip a breeze and I cannot say enough great things about her and the work she does. We WILL be returning again soon and we WILL be booking our trip with Amy! <3

Elizabeth, we want to thank you so much for planning such an amazing family vacation. Every detail was taken care of which allowed us to just relax and enjoy our time together as a family. We had so much fun that we are already talking about our next trip. All the tips and suggestions you had were spot on and the trip couldn’t have gone smoother. We will definitely be using Me and the Mouse again!

Becky Roland

Amy has amazing service!!! Answered all of my newbie Disney questions and made sure our first time was a complete success. Very thankful and will be referring to all of our friends!!

Sarah Garcia

We have taken our oldest son to Disney a few times before, but this was our first trip using Tressa and our first trip for our two youngest children. We are clients for life!!! Tressa planned the perfect vacation for our family. Every dining reservation, fast passes, and meet and greet was planned perfectly to make the most of our time there. No stress, planning, or worry for us. She had a million tips and suggestions to make our vacation magical. Thank you Tressa for planning our perfect trip!

Andrea Perry

We used Amy for our family vacation, we booked it just a couple of weeks before our trip as a last minute surprise for our family and she was able to get so many reservations that I thought would be impossible! She was so quick to answer any questions, offer great advice and the help with fast passes/dinner reservations, etc was AMAZING! Made our vacation so easy and effortless and we had so much fun! We will definitely use her again and again!!

Misty Nolan

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Your Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agency!

Your dream vacation is our top priority.

Welcome to your Disney Vacation Planners!

Quick Stats

What We Offer our Guests

• Our Services are 100% FREE ! • Our Goal is to make your Dream Vacation a Reality • We’ll help you avoid the long lines • Decades of In-depth Disney Knowledge • Dining Reservations done for you! • The Best Discounts Available • Just book with us and get all this and So Much More!

CALL US NOW – (833) 469-8747

A proud Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agency!

The Vacationeer is honored to have been selected to join the elite club of Diamond Level Earmarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. The top level in the Disney Earmarked Program. Disney bestows this recognition on a small handful of agencies that meet an exacting standard of service and sales volume, which ranks them among the best in the industry. We proudly accept this honor and look forward to helping thousands more people enjoy Disney Destinations for years to come!

Our Most Popular Vacations

Walt disney world.

By far our most popular vacation destination, Walt Disney World consists of 4 Major Theme Parks (Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios) as well as 2 Water Parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach). Add to that dozens of the best Themed Resorts and Restaurants around and you have the perfect combination of Magic and Relaxation. Contact us today and we’ll get started on planning your next vacation to The Most Magical Place on Earth!

Universal Orlando

The most popular add-on for our guests traveling to Orlando is 2-3 days at Universal Orlando Resort. There’s so much to enjoy here, like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Men In Black, Minions, Transformers, The Simpson, E.T., Dr. Seuss, and so much more. Universal also features some of the best new Resorts in Orlando, some of which allow you to walk to the parks. Booking with us also gets you Early Park Admission!

Disney Cruise Line

No Cruise Line has distinguished itself for quality and immersive experience quite as well as Disney Cruise Line. We book more Disney Cruises than all of the other Cruise Lines combined, and that’s for very good reason. Our guests are consistently pleased with the experience and value for money they get with their Disney Cruises. Experience the Disney Magic at Sea! We also offer a significant onboard credit for anyone who books a Disney Cruise with us. Click here for more information!

Adventures by Disney

Disney is world-renowned for their Theme Parks, but did you know you can experience Disney led Adventures all over the World? Adventures by Disney offers all the service and attention to detail you’ve come to expect from Disney with carefully curated guided tours all around the World. From Rhine River Cruises to African Safaris, Adventures by Disney does it all with thoughtfulness and care. We also offer an Industry leading up to $1,500 off all Adventures by Disney vacations. Visit our Adventures by Disney Discount Page for more information. Let Disney sprinkle a little pixie dust on your next world tour!

Get In Touch Today!

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As featured on…, w hat our customers are saying about us.

“We had a wonderful vacation and much of that had to do with the help we received from JoMarie! Disney can be a little overwhelming when you’re new to it, but she made it a very enjoyable and low stress during the planning phases! Thanks JoMarie!”

“Carla worked side by side with me to plan the perfect banquets, shows, fast pass rides, fireworks and places to stay with our group and I could not be happier! If you are planning a disney trip the best advice I could give you is use Carla, a Disney agent. We saved the most money possible and she directed us to the perfect experiences just for us. We will never forget the magic we experienced at Disney World, thank you Carla from the bottom of my heart! You were awesome!”

“I am already a client but wanted to mention what a wonderful job my agent has done. Her name is Ashtin and she has done a great job for us. We’ve changed our dates twice now, due to some unforeseen issues, some medical, and she’s handled it so well. It makes us very comfortable and confident that she will take care of all aspects of our trip. It is greatly appreciated and hopefully there won’t be any more changes. Thank you”

“I could not thank Emily enough for the AMAZING job she did planning my disneymoon. The resorts she put us in we amazing. I never would have stayed on site without her! From our food recommendations to fast past set ups. The attention to detail is absolutely spot on! I can’t wait for her to plan our next vacation!”

“I am rarely at a loss for words, but I can’t express how amazed I am by the service Tiffany has and continues to provide. I was thrilled with her service even before anything went sideways (none of which had anything to do with her). But she has been there for us through the need to reschedule our trip from May of last year to this March due to Covid. To then having to reshuffle all of our reservation dates when the family we were planning to go with canceled due to a medical condition. ”

“With a vacation that takes a TON of planning, Chuck made it extremely easy to navigate. He has excellent recommendations from personal experience with restaurants and advice on what parks to go into when. He also did all of our fast pass and dinner reservations that turned out wonderfully. We are so excited for this vacation and couldn’t have done it without Chuck. He made the notorious stressful Disney planning an absolute breeze. Plan your Disney trip through him!”

“Whitney was simply amazing! She organized all our activities, meals and accommodations for 9 adults and 5 kids at Disney World. We had a wonderful vacation that was well thought out, and we got to experience each park. She really spent time considering what my kids loved most and made sure we were able to get into those dinners and rides, it made it so easy for us! I would highly recommend using Whitney, she sent an entire binder with travel tips, itinerary, little gift for the kids and much more, there’s no question we will use her again!”

The Vacationeer is more than just a group of Disney-focused Travel Agents . We are dedicated to helping you through every phase of planning and booking your magical vacation. Our team of Disney travel experts has a passion and level of knowledge that is unsurpassed in the industry, and our enthusiastic returning customer base is a testament to our expertise and customer satisfaction.

Planning a vacation can be stressful and time-consuming, so why not let one of the best Authorized Disney Vacation Planners do the heavy lifting for you? Our Vacationeers will learn about your vacation goals, help formulate the right vacation package for you, and ensure that your expectations are met at every step. We take the headache out of booking your trip because we help you work out the details and, ultimately, book the trip for you. The only thing left to do is pack your bags and go!

When you book with The Vacationeer, not only do we provide the answers you are looking for, but we also scout out the best possible vacation deals for you. And, best of all, our services are completely FREE of charge! There is no catch. Call or email us today and we will help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Vacationeer Difference.

The Vacationeer isn’t like those “big box” travel agencies where you are just another number. We take pride in the way we conduct our business and the special attention we provide to you, our client. At The Vacationeer, the client’s needs will always come first, so rest assured we will accommodate you at every step and never talk you into something that isn’t right for you.

Disney Experts

Whether it’s your first Disney vacation or your 100th, The Vacationeer travel experts can save you money, time, and aggravation. Take comfort in knowing that we are a trusted and knowledgeable Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. Each of our travel advisers is a proud graduate of the College of Disney Knowledge . But what really separates us from the rest of the pack is our passion for all things Disney. We live and breathe Disney, and would never have started this business without the compelling urge to help others discover the magic of Disney vacations. The Vacationeer travel planners have spent countless days exploring Disney parks, and we know our way around them like we do our hometown neighborhoods. It is our intimate knowledge of Disney – and our dedication to our clients – that separates us from the crowd.

Other Vacations

Disney isn’t our only specialty. The Vacationeer travel experts are fully authorized to book vacations to Universal Studios (FL and CA), Sandals & Beaches Resorts, All Inclusive Caribbean Vacation packages, as well as on Royal Caribbean and a variety of other cruise lines. Whatever your vacation goals are, our knowledgeable and passionate travel experts will help you plan the perfect getaway. Sit back, relax, and let us book your trip!

Ready to talk with our travel experts? Call us at 1-833-4MY-TRIP (1-833-469-8747) or send an email to [email protected] and we will respond to your inquiries as soon as possible.

H ow it works…

• Contact one of our Vacationeers today either by clicking on the Free Quote Page , calling us at 833-469-8747, or choosing an agent from the Our Team Page and messaging them directly.  
• Your Vacationeer agent will tailor a quote to your vacation specifications and advise you all along the way.
• Once you’re ready to book, your Vacationeer Agent will get your written authorization to make a deposit payment to secure your booking.
• Advice on securing Park Pass Reservations
• Securing Dining Reservations at your favorite Restaurants
• Educating you on how to navigate the Disney Transportation System
• Help with learning the ins and outs of the Genie+ App
• Answering all your questions so you arrive ready to enjoy your magical vacation

W hat we can’t help with…

While we are an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agency, there are some limits to how we can help:

• Don’t be discouraged if you already booked direct through Disney, if you booked in the last 30 days and haven’t paid in full we might still be able to help.  Reach out and we’ll let you know if we can.
• We cannot book your flights
• The exception here is Universal bookings

When in doubt please reach out and we’ll be happy to let you know if your unique case is something we can assist with.

Vacationeer – [vā-ˈkā-shə-ˈneer]

NOUN 1. A Professional Planner of the most Magical Vacations available, at the best Theme Parks and All-Inclusive Resorts in the World. 2. An adult Travel Agent that is still a kid at heart and never outgrew their love for the Magic of Disney World and Theme Parks in general. VERB 1. To plan and execute a Vacation that you’ll never forget.

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The Ultimate Guide To Disney World Travel Agents

By Lisa Gilmore 4 Comments

Walt Disney World is comprised of four theme parks, a shopping and dining district, two water parks, and over 25 Resort hotels …and that’s just scratching the surface!

Wouldn’t you love to see this view every day?

Planning for a Disney trip can be overwhelming, even for the most seasoned Disney visitor. There are SO many things to consider and learn.  Where do you stay ?  What’s the dining situation like ?  What types of tickets are there ? Don’t worry, you do NOT have to figure this all out on your own.

A decade ago, planning your Disney trip was do-able…and even fun — like the anticipation of seeing all of the presents under the tree before Christmas. But today, things are different. With Park Pass Reservations, Disney’s Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selection in place , dining that needs to be booked 60 days in advance, literally dozens of hotels on property and hundreds off-property, dessert parties , memorable behind-the-scenes tours , activities , and more…it’s just plain overwhelming to try to figure it all out. Disney World is about TWICE the size of Manhattan…and just as packed with options.

There Is SO Much to Do in Disney World

So, if reading this article is starting to give you anxiety, take a deep breath… let it out… and repeat this mantra, “Fish are friends, not food.” Ok, ok, not the mantra you’re looking for, but Disney vacations are supposed to be magical, right?

Not drive you panic-driven madness. Those tear-jerking commercials all involve happy families without a care in the world, not anxiety-riddle adults on the verge of exhaustion, desperately trying to mobile order lunch (yep, that’s a thing…) before their hangry family launches into full meltdown (we’re not speaking from experience at all… 😂).

So, how do you become one of those carefree families in the commercials? Well, that might take a bit of planning…

Celebration Buttons

If you’ve been to Disney before , you may have a general idea. Maybe a specific idea. Maybe a very specific idea, including a spreadsheet and a three-ring binder detailing every move your family will make once they pass beneath that magical archway.

But regardless of where you fall on this planning spectrum, using a Disney-certified travel agent  will help ensure not only that you’re checking off all of the right boxes, but that you have all of the right boxes on your checklist, to begin with!

Why use a Disney Travel Agent? Here are a few reasons!

Disney Certified Travel Agents are FREE

You may think it costs more. And that there are hidden fees they don’t tell you about. But as it turns out, Travel Agents don’t cost you a penny. Disney-certified travel agents do not charge clients for their services because they earn commissions from Disney.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

So you pay no extra fees and can spend more time anticipating and enjoying your vacation. It’s a win for the Agents (who genuinely love doing this stuff) and a win for you.

Finding the Best Discount

Travel Agents, especially those considered “Authorized Disney Vacation Planners,”  know what deals are out there ahead of the rest of us. If a new deal comes along after you’ve already made a reservation (e.g. Disney+ Discounts , Annual Passholder Discounts , etc), they can rework your existing reservation to save you some cash. They can also run the numbers to see which deal is going to be the better value.

They do the math for you. So, you can put away your high school economics book and spreadsheet for finding the break-even point on discount rate versus park days ratios. And the best part is, they’ve been doing this a REALLY. LONG. TIME. 

Hollywood Studios

So they probably already know what deal is best. Before it’s even announced.  And since they usually get a little head’s up from Disney about upcoming discounts, they can work it onto your existing vacation for you, usually before you even know it’s an option! So not only do you not have to worry about doing the math (phew!), you also don’t have to worry about missing out on the discount (since sometimes those bad boys are limited).

Planning Tips & Advice

Your agent’s got your back. They can advise you on resort choice, vacation package, and tickets that will suit your family’s unique needs. Overall, they make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. They’ve been there and done that, and they can tell you the most stress-free way to have your best vacation ever.

Now let’s talk reservations and planning for when you’re actually on Disney property! Here’s where a Travel Agent can be a super-valuable asset. Disney travel agents know:

• The most popular restaurants and when they need to be booked
• How to get those super-coveted reservations  (and might be able to snag them FOR you!)
• Alternatives to those restaurants if they’re full
• What rides, attractions, and events will suit your family’s unique needs
• How to help you plan an extraordinary trip within your budget
• How to craft a trip where you get to do everything you want to do …and still get enough sleep and real, honest-to-goodness “vacation” time when you’re NOT chasing your brood around the theme parks.

An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner can make suggestions for you based on which park you’ll be in for the day, making dining recommendations, and tips for planning your park days to get in all of your must-do attractions.

In short, they’ll help you narrow down those 200+ restaurant choices , hundreds of ride choices, activity options, and more, and make sure to help you hand-craft the perfect vacation for YOUR family. (Or you can grab our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining , t00.)

The ICONIC Mickey Ice Cream Bar!

Something you may  not know about Disney travel agents is that in order to maintain their Disney-certified status, they have to maintain their Disney training. Disney is constantly changing, growing, adapting, innovating, and improving, so these travel agents know the latest, greatest, best, and newest of everything Disney has to offer.

Assistance During Your Vacation

You may not know this, but Disney World is in Florida (shocker, right?). And Florida gets hurricanes ! In fact, hurricane season lasts from June to November, so chances are, when you’re visiting Disney World, it might be during hurricane season! And inclement weather can impact special Disney events (like after-hours parties ), delay flights , and even close down parks , in extreme cases.

Rainy Day in MK

And your Agent’s support doesn’t stop when you get to your resort. No matter what problems arise during your getaway — if your shuttle is canceled, your room isn’t ready, or you need to find a doctor — your Agent knows who to call to put your vacation back on track . They’re just a phone call or text message away, no matter what goes down! Because as much as we wish it, life doesn’t pause while we’re on vacation!

So whether you’re a color-coded spreadsheet-toting Disney veteran or a first-timer at the Disney parks, utilizing the skills and expertise of a Travel Agent may just surprise you. Even locals can implement the skills, discount access, and overall knowledge of a Disney Travel Agent!

Choose the Right Travel Agent

There are a lot of Disney-certified travel agents out there. If you Google it, you’ll be scrolling for days. As long as they have their certification and are designated as “earmarked” by Disney, you can likely expect good service and solid knowledge.

But if you want  our recommendation, we always choose Small World Vacations.

1. They’ve Proven Themselves:

DFB’s AJ Wolfe and Sue Pisaturo, the owner of the agency, have been friends and colleagues for years. Small World Travel is also respected and used by other leaders in the Disney Media and Travel industry by people who KNOW DISNEY and have been in the Disney travel arena for dozens of years. Small World Vacations isn’t just our preferred Disney Travel Agent, they are also preferred by, MouseSavers , and Sehlinger’s “Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.”  (So, you don’t have to just take our word for it…)

2. They Have a Reputation for Excellence:

Small World Vacations is one of the biggest Disney-focused agencies in the world, BUT all of their highly-qualified agents work full-time . This is exceptional in the travel planner arena. It means that all day, every day, Small World Vacations agents are planning Disney trips for clients — learning everything they can about how to create magical vacations and getting the depth of experience necessary to make sure your trip is a dream come true. It may sound like a little thing, but it offers huge benefits when it comes to working with an agent.

3. Testimonies from Guests (like you!):

Just take a look at some of these real-life testimonies of other Disney guests who’ve used their services.

I am writing this email to simply share how grateful my husband and I are for the help and support we got from Riley in planning our trip to Disney World. It was the first time for both of us and we have a 7 & 8 year old daughter – so we didn’t even know where to start. Riley’s responsiveness was outstanding and a little unbelievable at times – and we learned to count on it! She would make herself available for calls and made sure we were aware and on top of all the deadlines for registrations or adding special items on (Genie +, etc.). Honestly – we might not have gone given how much there is to know in planning a trip like this – but she made it simply and clear so that when we got there we had nothing to worry about. She was open about options for cost and locations and we felt like we had all the information needed to make the right decisions. I will continue to recommend Riley and will certainly reach back out should we plan another vacation with Disney! We are so grateful! — Allison

I would like to take this time to say, it has been a pleasure to work with Nikki at Small World Vacations. She always goes above and beyond to help. We had to cancel and reschedule a cruise due to Covid and Nikki was stellar. She has earned our Disney business going forward.. — Tracy

II’m writing to let you know about the simply exceptional service I’ve received from the marvelous Marion Carlson over the past year. I found her via a Google search and approached her in May of 2021 to help me plan a Christmas trip to WDW to surprise my 7-year-old daughter, Alice. Marion is amazing. She makes me feel like I am her only client, even though I know that couldn’t be further from the truth. She told me that she was thinking about me and Alice over Christmas, and I am certain that she was. Really, Marion basically IS Disney World. She is magic. I know we won’t go to WDW every year forever. And Alice won’t be this perfect WDW age forever. This is a special time in her childhood, and I’ll always be grateful to Marion for her help in giving our girl such a magical present after the terrible pandemic time (virtual school, quarantine, all of it). I am willing to bet I’m not the first of Marion’s clients writing to let you know how outstanding she is, and I’m certain I won’t be the last. — Lora

DFB Readers Get Something a Little Extra Special 😃

Yep — if you do decide to book with Small World, you just note that you heard about them through Disney Food Blog and you could get a special, unique surprise! Click here for current details!

Animal Kingdom

Phew. Don’t you feel better now? A Disney vacation can cost A LOT of money , and has A LOT of tricky nuances , but you don’t have to panic. There are pros available to help you every step of the way, and you’ll always have us to send you tips, news, and updates to make sure that your Disney vacation is as magical as possible!

It’s time to get started! Simply head over to Small World Vacations and Let the Magic Begin!

Don't do it alone.

Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.

So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you 🙂

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January 6, 2023 at 12:41 pm

Kingdom Destinations !! Savanna is AMAZING!!

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Hi Elaine! We recommend reaching out to our friends at Small World Vacations for assistance with planning your next visit! You can find more info on their planning services here.

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Are you ready to book a disney vacation contact us today to learn more., we plan simply magical vacations.

Welcome to DESTINATION MAGIC!  Our team of expert Disney vacation planners are dedicated to creating exceptional vacation experiences to magical destination like Disney, Hawaii , the Caribbean, cruises, and more.  As Walt Disney World travel agency specialists, we know the ins and outs of a simply magical Disney vacation full of memories to cherish. We will book a Disney vacation package that make your vacation dreams come true. And, our booking services are 100% free!

But we are not order-takers. Our advisors are travel consultants that will take the time to discover your wishes for the ideal vacation — and make those wishes come true through our extensive knowledge and expertise. Each advisor is a proud graduate of The College of Disney Knowledge as well as additional professional training to ensure they are on top of the current industry standards.

Your vacation starts as soon as you contact us. We do the heavy lifting so you can relax and enjoy a stress-free vacation, even before you leave home. Its vacation planning simplified!

 As a Disney World Travel agency, our Disney vacation planners are among the best in the business. But our expertise goes far beyond Walt Disney World. We are just as skillful at crafting magical vacations to other Disney destinations including Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani Resort and Spa, and Adventures by Disney. Plus, we are just as knowledgeable about Universal Studios, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Sandals and Beaches resorts, just to name a few the other magical vacations we create. 

Whatever destination you choose, we can save you time and money by finding you the best deals and providing exemplary travel planning services. Whether you book a Disney vacation package with us or a journey to another fabulous destination, your trip is destined to be more magical from beginning to end!

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Industry leading expertise.

With a focus on Disney World, our travel agents live and breathe Disney. We are steeped in knowledge and up to date on the latest news and trends. Each agent is a graduate of The College of Disney Knowledge and does continuing education throughout the year.

Simply stated, we know the ins-and-outs of planning a magical Disney World vacation package. If you are looking for an extraordinary Disney experience, from beginning to end, book a Disney vacation with us! Our Magic Makers are dedicated to helping you have a simply magical vacation full of cherished memories.

But we are more than just a Disney World travel agency. We bring that same level of care,  dedication, commitment, and expertise to every magical destination we provide travel planning services to.

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We know Disney! With a focus as a Disney World travel agency takes dedication—and we are. We have decades of experience and understand the ins-and-outs of how to make a Disney vacation truly magical.

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You will never pay when you book a Disney vacation package with us than if you booked directly with Disney. We offer all available deals and promotions. Best of all, our booking services are 100% free to our clients.

More than just Disney

We are just as knowledgeable about destinations such as Universal Studios, Hawaii, Sandals, Beaches, the Caribbean, and cruises!

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For clients looking for VIP treatment, we can provide enhanced itinerary planning, even if you have already booked a Disney vacation on your own. Let us help create your perfect dream vacation.

Customized planning

One of the benefits of using a Disney World travel specialist is to avoid doing all heavy lifting yourself. There is a lot of planning that goes into any vacation package, especially a Walt Disney World vacation package such as securing Disney park pass reservations and advance dining reservations, to learning how to use Disney Genie Plus. When your book a Disney vacation package with us, we can do that for you!

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How To Become A Disney Travel Agent – Get Started Today

The term “travel agent” can sound outdated at times. Who walks into a travel agent shop and books their vacation when it can all be done online? This is a valid question when it comes to travel in general. With websites like Expedia, Priceline and Google, there’s almost no reason to even speak with a person in this way. But Disney travel agents are different.

Disney knows that technology has advanced past the need of in person meetings when it comes to travel. This is why they have built a solid platform for their travel agents to use as they book clients vacations via the phone, internet and email.

This alone has sped up the process of booking a Disney vacation while keeping the personal touch of a human.

If you’ve ever tried to book a Disney vacation on your own without having done it before, it can be overwhelming. There are so many components for the theme parks and cruises that one can get lost very easily or miss out on something important.

That’s where a trained Disney travel agent comes in. Travel agents with Disney have been trained on all their vacations including theme parks, cruises, Adventures, Aulani and resorts.

This allows the trained agent to provide not just the basics of booking for a client, but inside information to make sure they get the most out of it. And when this happens, the client becomes one for life.

How To Become A Disney Travel Agent Selling Disney

To become a Disney specialized travel agent you first need to join an authorized travel agency that is registered with Disney as a seller of travel. MainStreet Travel is one of the easiest companies to join online as they typically get you started training same-day and ready for booking within 24-48 hours.

They are an approved agency with Disney and have been trained agents for over 10 years. Their program is easy to join , has friendly and helpful team managers, and most importantly, on-time with their commission payments.

Joining an agency like MainStreet takes little to no travel skill at all. This is because all your training is provided at the time of joining. The only “skill” you need to posses is a desire to book Disney vacations. A background in sales and customer service is always a plus.

The biggest thing that helps any new agent is if they have been on a vacation before to one of Disney’s resorts or on a cruise. If you have found yourself wanting to go back again and again, this job is probably right for you.

You’ll also want to have a dedicated workspace for when you do get started. Training and booking in a quiet place whether at an office or home is desirable. You don’t want to be booking a clients vacation while your dog is barking or kids are hitting you with pillows (this has happened).

You always want to sound and be professional when it comes to booking so having a place to go is something you’ll want to make sure you have.

You’ll want to make sure you have access to a computer full-time, a phone and the internet. Most of your bookings will come via email or online through websites like Facebook or Instagram. Thus being able to respond to these, even on the go, is important.

Make sure you brush up on your communication skills as well. While most bookings are not done over the phone, some guests do like to speak to you like this so be ready.

There will be guests who know exactly what they want to book when they reach out to you and there will be some who know nothing and will rely on your expertise to help book them a magical vacation. When you’re prepared for all of the above, that’s when you’ll succeed the most.

Can I become a Disney Travel Agent on my own?

You will need to join an agency in order to become a Disney Travel Agent and sell travel to clients. This is due to the need of many certificates and licenses that agencies already have in order to work with suppliers and states.

Becoming a Travel Agent During the Pandemic

It may seem like during the global pandemic, with travel slower than normal, it’s the worst time to become an agent specializing in Disney travel. The truth is, it’s just the opposite. The need for agents once travel gets back to 100% is going to be tremendous. Once airlines and resorts reopen fully, with no limitations, people are going to want to travel. Even as we write this, Summer have been selling out at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line. And the demand is only going to increase come summer/fall time.

What this means for anyone considering becoming an agent with a focus on Disney is now is the best time to get yourself situated and trained because come post-COVID, things are going to get crazy and there will be a lot of people booking Disney vacations .

Lastly, Disney has suffered through a lot during the pandemic with closures and full stops but demand has never changed. Traveling in general has become harder but now more than ever people want to get back to Disney to resume what they already had planned all along.

How Much Money Does A Disney Travel Agent Make Selling Disney?

Don’t put it past yourself to ask this question. While it’s fun to help others book their vacations, you deserve compensation for your time and effort.

Of course this question is a loaded one as there are some many factors that go into it including vacation type, how many guests are traveling, accommodation type, tickets, if they need airfare or transportation and anything else you can think of that a guest may utilize while gone.

The standard industry pay on a vacation package is 10% to the agency. This is the price before taxes are added. Some components like airfare may pay less than 10% or not at all. When it comes to Disney, you can typically expect an agency to get 10% across the board with a few exceptions.

Now as an agent working for an agency, you are going to collect a bit less than this. Why? Because most agencies take about half of your commission for themselves. This is an industry standard but does have some flexibility. Many will offer a tier program that lets you keep more as you book more.

An agency like MainStreet or Boardwalk actually starts you out at 70% and then lets you go up from there. To date, they are the highest paying agency for new agents. What this means is, an agent working for MainStreet who books a vacation with a commission of let’s say $425 will ultimately collect $297.50 at 70%.

When an agent completes a booking, most of the time they are going to be paid after the travel takes place. This is because Disney only pays after the guest has travelled, for obvious reasons. Cancelled trips don’t pay thus agencies have to wait.

As an agent, you can expect to be paid within 30 days after your guests have finished traveling. MainStreet however, will complete the payment to you within 7 days or less which is another nice perk that they offer.

Most agents are paid by direct deposit or check though some can be paid by PayPal or Venmo.

Any agent who books one vacation package a month can expect to make about $200-$300. This is because the average package costs a client around $2,500 to $3,500 for Disneyland in Southern California and about $3,500-$4,000 at Walt Disney World.

Some vacations, like Disney Cruise Line , will earn an agent well over $300 on a single booking as most cruises run the average family $5,000 to $6,000.

There are so many ways to bring this number up as well with add-ons so keep that in mind.

We’ve had many people ask us what the Disney Travel Agent salary is per year. There is no “salary” per se as an agent is paid based on their bookings and there’s no guarantee on the amount of these an agent does.

If you’re looking for something that pay hourly or a salary each year as an agent, this is not the job for you. However, the upside is that your earnings are unlimited.

For instance, a booking could net you several hundred dollars. Doing a few of these each week would pay much more than earning $12 an hour.

Do I Have To Start A Business To Become An Agent?

That’s totally up to you! No matter what you choose to do, you will always be considered an independent contractor to an agency and not an employee. What this means is that you will receive your full pay without any taxes being taken out by them.

This also means that when you file your taxes, you’ll need to pay any taxes you might owe, whether you’re a sole proprietor (yourself as a business) or as a business.

There can be benefits to both of these and we would highly recommend talking to your tax person to figure out what’s best for you. Don’t let any of these ideas scare you from starting. It’s actually much easier than you think and so are the taxes.

Many travel agents like to register as an LLC for the protection that it offers as well as the various tax write-offs. Again, we’re not offering professional advice here so talk with an expert. Typically this is done when you expect to be paid more than a certain amount each year.

We’ve seen agents write off their computers, phone and office space. Basically anything you use to work your job and provide for your clients can typically be written off. Just something to keep in mind as you move forward.

What Is Disney’s Travel Agent Training Like?

It’s pretty simple actually. Agencies like MainStreet will send you a welcome packet after you’ve joined. It goes over everything including pay, perks (see below) and how to start your training.

Training is done online and in most cases can be started right away. Disney offers something called the College of Disney Knowledge which helps train a new agent on each of the destinations they offer. This includes Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line , Adventures by Disney and their beach resorts.

The entire training process can be done in about 24 hrs though we highly recommend taking it slow to begin with. You really want to learn what’s being taught as we guarantee you’ll use it as some point.

College of Disney Knowledge sessions are done in Powerpoint presentation with voiceover. There are times where you will watch videos and visit the Disney Travel Agent website for references.

You can pause, stop and continue any lesson later if needs be. Each lesson has a quiz at the end and to become “certified” you’ll need to complete all the core lessons and then take a 50 question quiz to pass.

While studying super hard probably isn’t necessary, you will want to take notes. Memorizing cruise ship names and the names of restaurants they offer isn’t something to just glaze over.

You’ll also be expected to know different vacation components like tickets and their options, resort hotels, lands inside the parks and names of firework shows to name a few.

Even going beyond Disney and into the realm of Universal Vacations , the training is the same. Work at your own speed.

Are There Any Perks To Disney’s Travel Agent Program?

Of course! One of the great things about the DTA program is that they want their agents to be involved in what they sell. This means offering some special discounts so agents can visit and familiarize themselves with resorts and cruises.

We will highlight one thing before getting into the details: All perks from Disney are subject to change. While we have not seen them change per se in over 5 years, this doesn’t mean they won’t. Basically, don’t bank on something.

Disney typically offers the following agent discounts once you have completed (or renewed) your training:

• About 50% off a Disneyland Resort Hotel
• About 50% off a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel
• About 30-40% off an Aulani hotel room
• About 50% off a Disney Cruise Line Booking
• One free 1-day Disneyland Park Hopper Ticket
• One free 1-day Walt Disney World Hopper Ticket OR a deeply discounted multi-day Hopper Ticket
• Discounted Adventures by Disney Itineraries
• Discounted River Cruises through Adventures by Disney

Again, these are earned upon completion of your training each year AND proof of a CLIA or IATA membership.

Your CLIA or IATA membership will come from your agency. While some agencies enroll you for free into these programs, there is a cost for your agent ID card at $120 per calendar year. This ID card is necessary to book any of the above perks. Be aware that there are agencies that require you book so much before giving you access to a CLIA card. Programs like MainStreet do not.

While it may seem steep, the savings on any one of those components will easily cover (and then some) the cost of the ID. If you don’t plan to travel in a certain year, then you don’t have to get it.

Completion of your training and your ID card is required to complete your booking of any of these perks. Booking is done online and in real time meaning you should only book once you have completed everything and have your CLIA card.

What’s an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” or “Earmarked” Agency?

A lot of people come across this term or marking on agency websites. The term Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is part of an optional program that private agencies can join. The program, referred to as “Earmarked” is a way for Disney to recognize agencies who have consistently sold a certain level of revenue for each product (Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, Walt Disney World) for at least two years in a row.

By doing so, Disney invites these agencies to participate in the Earmarked program. Agencies who accept can reach different levels within the program including silver, gold, platinum, etc. Agencies must improve upon their sales each year in every category or they face removal from the program. There is no difference in how travel agencies book whether they participate in the program or not.

Host agencies typically do not participate in the program due to having independent contractors instead of employees. Again, the program is completely optional and up to the agency to decide whether they want to participate in it or not. Agencies who are not Earmarked are still authorized to book Disney vacations and have the same tools as those who are.

Best Disney Host Agency

A host agency provides you with access to suppliers, support and tools. a Disney Host Agency does just this for Disney Destinations including Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney. You’ll gain access to and be able to sell them making commission.

We’ve already mentioned them serval times but right now the best Disney Travel Host Agency to join is MainStreet Travel. They have been growing for several years and have moved from private to host in the last year. This means that they are accepting agents to join their program right now.

We love MainStreet Travel for a lot of things but here’s our top list:

• 70% of all commission paid (industry average is 50%)
• Tons of suppliers – Disney, Universal, Cruise Lines, VAX, Sandals, Expedia and more!
• No monthly or yearly fees. Just a one-time $99 fee to join.
• Online training – Train online at your own pace.
• CLIA access – Get your CLIA card for agent benefits
• Online Tutorials – Lean how to complete tasks, market, and train through videos.
• Giveaways and benefits every month including cash.
• Support – Live chat, email and phone support.

There’s a lot more to their program but as a Disney Host Agency, you won’t find a better option. Take a look at their agent website and go thought their FAQ’s.

How Do I Market Myself To Clients?

While an agency gives you everything you need to book a clients vacation, finding that client can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re doing.

The best place to start is social media. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and the top three places to create profiles. TikTok is also becoming a great place to get followers.

Create a profile and then invite your friends and family. Ask them to share your page or profile with their friends. Let them know you book Disney vacations and you should get a pretty good response as most people love Disney.

On your pages, stay active with posts about special offers and fun tips or hacks. While these take very little effort, they can produce great results as people get excited when they learn about cool Disney things.

You can list yourself with Google My Business so that when people search for Disney vacations in your area, your name pops up. This is a great way to get locals to your website/phone/email asking questions and eventually booking.

On Facebook, join local community pages and let people know you’re available to book Disney vacations and how they can reach out to you.

There’s an endless number of options to get potential clients talking to you. Be patient though. Bookings don’t just come overnight (sometimes they do). Keep at it and eventually it will pay off.

Are There Minimum Booking Requirements?

For some agencies there are and for some there are not. It comes down to the one you join. Some may require you to book at least once a month or maybe even once a year. These ones don’t have a dollar minimum so all you need to do is complete a booking, whatever that may be.

Other agencies may require you to hit a minimum dollar booking amount, say $5,000 each year. Not hitting this mark may cause revocation of your agent status or a decline in your commission percentage.

The MainStreet agency has no minimums for agents so whether you book once a year, never a year or 3 times a year, you’re an agent. Agents who book more than 35 bookings a year with them can increase their commission percentage, up from 70%.

What Is The College of Disney Knowledge?

Travel Agents wanting to sell Disney Destinations will take the College of Disney Knowledge training courses provided by Disney. The College gives agents an introduction to all their products including Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani, Adventures by Disney and the Disneyland Resort. Courses consist of video presentations as well as quizzes at the end of each one.

Each year travel agents have to retake the basic courses that have been updated with new information. To graduate from the College of Disney Knowledge agents must complete each of the basic courses and then pass the annual assessment that consists of 25 questions about all 5 products. After passing with 80% or more agents receive a certificate showing that they have successfully completed the College of Disney Knowledge.

Outside of the 5 basic courses, agents can also take advanced classes that dive deeper into each product. These courses are being updated throughout the year and are not required to take.

Agents who pass also receive access to yearly benefits that include hotel and ticket offers at a discounted rate for the agent.

In order to join and train in the College agents must join an agency like MainStreet Travel. Once under them they can register and start taking the classes.

Make sure you look for a reputable travel agency who can help you sell Disney products. If you want to focus on just Disney, find someone like MainStreet who does just this . They offer free E&O insurance, are a Registered Seller of Travel in CA and FL and they offer superb customer service.

You should know that being an agent requires a time commitment, especially during training. You’ll want to focus on getting this done and learning all you can before you start selling.

Working from home is a nice perk but you’ll want to make sure you have a few items including a laptop, internet and phone.

Agents get paid a commission and it typically isn’t at the time of booking. It’s when the travel has taken place by your guest. Once done, an agency will pay once the supplier has paid them.

It’s a great idea to create a Facebook Page for your agency and invite friends and family to like it. Then keep active posting deals and fun trip ideas. These get people excited about taking a Disney vacation and can easily turn into bookings. List your agency online so people can find a Disney travel agent near them.

Joining the right agency can make or break your experience so be sure to choose one that can support you!

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Working with Travel Agents Specializing in Disney Vacations

The amount of research necessary to plan all the details of a Disney vacation can be too time-consuming or even intimidating for some people. If you are feeling overwhelmed by all the options, a great (FREE) solution is to use the services of a travel agent who specializes in Disney travel .

“Disney Specialists” have completed the College of Disney Knowledge, an online course offered by Disney that covers Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney. This is a great starting point, but frankly it’s not enough. Believe it or not, a travel agent can easily become a “Disney Specialist” in a few hours, without ever having visited a Disney vacation destination in person!

For that reason, we recommend picking an agency such as Small World Vacations that focuses on Disney travel and requires its agents to have advanced experience with Disney destinations, including in-person, on-site visits.

How Come It’s Free?

What to expect, avoid problems with payments, our personal recommendation.

Normally the client pays nothing extra for the service provided by a travel agency. Travel agents make their living from a small commission paid by the travel supplier (in this case, Disney) for the resort hotel rooms, theme park passes and vacation packages they book. The agent is compensated by this commission for the time, effort and attention she provides to the client.

Some agencies do charge for making changes or cancellations. The agency we recommend, Small World Vacations , does not charge any fees, including cancellation or change fees.

Travel agencies always charge a fee for making air reservations, because the airlines no longer pay commission. Small World Vacations does not book plane tickets for that very reason: it’s cheaper and easier for you to do it yourself! ( Read our advice and tips on booking your own airfare .)

Because they work on a commission basis, it’s unfair to ask a travel agent to do a lot of research for you, and then book elsewhere. Likewise, a reputable travel agent normally will not take over the booking of a trip from another travel agent, because this is considered “stealing” someone else’s earned commission.

An agent who specializes in Disney travel should be able to provide you with accurate information, including pricing, for Disney resorts, theme park passes and packages. She will book your trip and seek out the best deals for you — even rebooking your trip when better rates come up, if possible. Additionally, the best agents will help you with “extras” like booking your Advance Dining Reservations .

Once you book with a travel agent, he or she becomes your single point of contact for all changes in your travel plans. You cannot make changes or cancellations directly through Disney if you are working with a travel agent. For most people this feature is convenient, but if you prefer to control everything yourself, booking with a travel agent is not for you.

Travel agents are generally geared toward long-term planning (one month in advance or more). That’s primarily because it can take 3-4 weeks for them to get the paperwork from Disney once they’ve made your reservations, and then they have to get that paperwork to you. If you’re planning a last-minute trip, it’s usually better to do it yourself.

One of the most important things you need to find out about a travel agency is how they handle payments. The agency should send your payments immediately and directly to Disney. If you give them a credit card number, the card payment should be processed by Disney. If you write a check, it should be made out to Disney, not to the agency. That is how the agency we recommend ( Small World Vacations ) processes payments. They don’t hold your money — it goes straight to Disney.

DO NOT use an agency that collects your money and holds that money in its own accounts! Agencies that hold your money may have cash flow problems. They may be using your money to pay their suppliers for earlier clients’ vacations, and then hoping to use future clients’ money to pay for your vacation. It’s sort of like a pyramid scheme, and it can have the same result if their cash flow dries up.

When you let an agency process your payment through its own accounts, you have no guarantee that they’ll actually pay Disney for your vacation. There is also a risk that they’ll delay paying so long that your reservation may be canceled. If you have booked a Disney cruise, full payment must be received by Disney by a certain date so that you can reserve excursions and make Palo reservations, but if the agency sits on your money, you may lose your chance to make those reservations.

Some agencies are bonded, but if they default or close their doors, the bond may not cover all the money they’ve been collecting from clients. In some states, agencies that process payments are legally required to put your money in an escrow account for your protection, but many states don’t require this. In any case, there is no reason why the agency should earn interest on your money!

By the way, we don’t recommend paying for a vacation by check or debit card. You have much better protection against losing your money if you pay with a credit card.

The travel agent we use personally, talk with all the time, and can recommend wholeheartedly is Sue Pisaturo , whose company is called Small World Vacations .

Sue and all of her agents are Disney Specialists and College of Disney Knowledge graduates. Small World Vacations agents are required to have actually experienced the Disney destinations they sell. (In other words, if they are booking Disney cruises, they’ve actually been on a Disney cruise — often several cruises — themselves.) In addition, Small World agents complete ongoing education programs on-site at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Universal Orlando.

Small World Vacations is a Diamond Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, a special designation given by Disney to its top booking agencies. Sue Pisaturo, the owner and founder, is acknowledged as a Disney “expert among experts” and has contributed to The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World and other guidebooks. 

Small World Vacations is included in Travel Weekly’s 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019 Power List and Travel Weekly’s 2017 Power List of the most successful travel agencies in the USA. They’ve been on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies for six years in a row, and is one of very few agencies in the world to earn Diamond status (the highest level) in Disney’s EarMarked program for travel agencies. Small World Vacations has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They are insured, bonded and have been in business for over 25 years.

Here’s how the process works. Small World Vacations uses a quotation system that helps them offer the best discounts available and also directs your request to the best agent for your needs.

• Submit a request for a price quote through their website.
• Based on your needs and your location, Sue partners you with a specific agent who will work with you right up through the time of your trip. (Sue is located in the Northeastern US, but she has agents around the US and works with clients around the world.)
• The agent will contact you by email with your quotation and provide you with an email and direct phone number that allows you to reach her directly and discuss the details of your vacation.
• From that point on, your contact is one-on-one with the agent and completely personalized.

Sue’s agents are extremely knowledgeable about Disney travel and wonderful to work with. They are oriented toward saving you money and will constantly monitor your reservation to make sure you are getting the best available deal. They understand and use the various discount codes that may be available, and they know all the best tricks for maximizing your time and money when planning a Disney vacation. Since 1996, they have helped over 300,000 guests plan their Disney vacations.

You will always receive helpful planning information and literature when you book with Small World Vacations. There is never any charge for their services. They often offer special gifts and incentives as well. Be sure to subscribe to the FREE monthly MouseSavers Newsletter , since Small World frequently offers extra goodies for newsletter subscribers.

The agents at Small World Vacations are genuinely enthusiastic and knowledgeable about all things Disney, and we know they’ll take great care of you. We have received many, many “thank you” emails from readers who had a wonderful experience working with this agency.

Ready to plan your vacation with Small World Vacations? Where do you want to go?

• Walt Disney World: Request a Walt Disney World vacation price quote from Small World Vacations. Please note:  Small World Vacations has a minimum booking requirement of 3 nights, except for room-only bookings (with no tickets or dining plan) of standard Value resort rooms, for which the minimum booking requirement is 5 nights.
• Disneyland (California):   Request a Disneyland (California) vacation price quote from Small World Vacations. Please note:  Small World Vacations has a minimum booking requirement of 2 nights for vacation packages; there is a 3-night minimum for room-only bookings (with no tickets or dining plan) at on-site Disneyland Resorts.
• Disney Cruise Line cruise:   Request a Disney Cruise Line cruise price quote from Small World Vacations.
• Universal Orlando:   Request a Universal Orlando vacation price quote from Small World Vacations. Please note:  Small World Vacations has a minimum booking requirement of 3 nights at  on-site hotels only.
• Adventures by Disney vacation:   Request an Adventures by Disney vacation price quote from Small World Vacations.
• Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii:   Request an Aulani Resort vacation price quote from Small World Vacations.  Please note:  Small World Vacations has a minimum booking requirement of 3 nights.
• Want to book   Universal Orlando vacation packages as an add-on to your Walt Disney World trip or Disney Cruise vacation? Use the Small World Vacations’ Walt Disney World request a price quote form. Fill it out with the details for the Walt Disney World portion of your trip. When you reach the “Special Requests” section, add a note saying that you’d like to add days at Universal Orlando and which on-site hotel you are interested in.

Become a Disney Vacation Planner.

Join The Happiest Team Around

As a top-tier, high-end agency, we attract the kind of clients you love to work with, so you can really make magic happen.

You’ve found the place where dreams come true. 

We are seeking independent travel consultants to add to our Disney travel planning agency.

Are you a type-A planner with an incurable passion for travel and a love for delighting others? Or have you ever dreamed of using your in-depth knowledge of Disney destinations as a career? Then as a Disney focused travel agent, you can begin crafting truly magical vacations for your clients.

We also welcome experienced agents to apply.

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At The Enchanted Traveler, we are committed to…

What To Expect From The Enchanted Traveler 

• A high-quality brand known for its personalized, in-depth vacation planning. • One-on-one help from the moment you join the team and start your business, as well as through any step along the way • Any marketing advice and strategies you need • Commission splits with increases based on experience and productivity • Opportunities for both Disney knowledge training and business training • A team atmosphere, including a Facebook support group and more. • The flexibility to work when you want, where you want, and with the clients that you want.

"Being a part of this team is like being a part of an exclusive club!"

What OUR CONSULTANTS are saying

- Holly Woodlee

We are people from all over the world with different backgrounds who all have different strengths, even within a team of similarly skilled people. One colleague might be more strategic, while another one is more analytical. Yet when the right mix of people and skills are brought together, the results can be amazing. Our team of experts value and care for each other and want to see each other succeed. Above all, we LOVE what we do, and helping our clients create the perfect vacation is an absolute dream

A Passion for disney

You don’t have to be Disney obsessed, but you do need to believe that a Disney vacation is absolutely magical, and love the experience it offers.

Our ideal Disney Travel Consultant has:

Above average Disney knowledge

Do you have great tips and tricks? Know the best restaurants? Know how to avoid crowds? Can you create detailed plans to keep people out of lines?

A social media presence

So much of this business comes from word of mouth.

Most of our work is web-based, both within this agency, in our marketing, and with Disney.

experience in customer service or naturally personable skills

It is important that our clients feel special, valued, and happy when working with us.

Sales Experience

An important portion of this job is sales-based, so sales experience is preferred.

organizational skills and self-motivation

As an Independent Consultant, this is still your business and no one is going to manage it for you – you must be a go-getter!

A Desire to learn

Keeping up with all things Disney is extremely important and requires you to seek the information willingly and frequently. Being willing to learn other aspects of the business on your own time is also important to your success.

time to dedicate toward building a business

Whether part-time or full-time, we are not seeking hobbyists. We are looking for someone able to devote 20+ hours a week.

well-traveled within the Disney destinations

We’re looking for someone who has traveled to a Disney destination at least 4 times in the last 8 years, with at least 2 of those to Walt Disney World in the last 4 years. It’s an extra bonus if you’ve traveled recently to more than one Disney destination.

an expert level of knowledge on at least one Disney destination

Ability to continue traveling to a Disney destination regularly, at least once per year

"I absolutely love being an Independent Consultant with The Enchanted Traveler!"

- Kerri Danley

I started this industry knowing little about the travel agency business, but with a ton of knowledge and passion for Disney! Sabrina guided me as a mentor to set goals for business, market myself as my own brand, and provided opportunities to learn and collaborate with our team of agents. We are a supportive team who helps each other and celebrates our successes. I'm so thankful for this opportunity to work under a strong and encouraging agency, and the autonomy to work my own hours and build my business at my pace.

Want to be part of The Enchanted Traveler difference?

Join our team

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Since 2012, the Enchanted Traveler has become the go-to travel agency for moms and dads who want to save time and relieve the stress of planning a family vacation to Disney destinations and beyond. 

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Why You Should Use A Disney Travel Agent

Using an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner can take the stress out of planning a Walt Disney World vacation, which is complicated and overwhelming for first-timer tourists. Travel agent can make the process easier by booking reservations, making itineraries, securing discounts, and more. ( Updated April 11, 2023 .)

One thing that regulars often forget once we’ve learned the ropes is just how convoluted it is to plan and take a trip to Walt Disney World. Thanks to years of experience and research, WDW veterans know the basics of planning–from tricks for booking Advance Dining Reservations to leveraging discounts, using Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, navigating virtual queues, making ideal itineraries to beat the crowds, and more–inside and out. However, the whole process is foreign and daunting to newbies, which is why there’s huge value in using an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

If all you’re looking for is a travel agent recommendation, Be Our Guest Vacations is our preferred Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. They offer no-cost planning, their agents have  years  of experience and visit the parks multiple times per year, and their team is talented and tight-knit. However, this is not simply a sales pitch for Be Our Guest Vacations…

Our advice to use a travel agent holds true regardless of which agency you end up choosing. The point here is more broadly that it’s incredibly advantageous to use Authorized Disney Vacation Planners– any of them! While some agencies and agents do a better job and have more thorough knowledge of Disney than others (more on these pitfalls in a minute), the vast majority are helpful. Suffice to say, if you’re overwhelmed by planning, a Disney TA can help.

More importantly, there’s no shame in needing help or being overwhelmed! We travel around the globe, and nowhere that we visit is as complicated or intimidating for first-timers as Walt Disney World. It’s literally the size of a city, and Walt Disney World has its own quirks, policies, and unwritten rules that are not easily understood. It’s a bit like learning Na’vi , a language without much real world value but that will endear you with a hardcore community of fellow-fans!

The first and biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is the service. Imagine the knowledge-base of this blog (assuming you think I’m knowledgeable), but in a form that can apply the tips here to your particular circumstances, preferences, and needs. That’s what a good Authorized Disney Vacation Planner provides. It’s a back-and-forth dialogue, and they’re there to hold your hand and give you personalized advice.

Unlike traditional, large-scale travel agencies, most Disney-specializing agents got into it not due to a desire to build some highly profitable business empire, but because they love Disney and really enjoyed planning their own trip. This is why I distinguish between “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” (the words you want to look for) and traditional travel agents. The latter are professionals who book trips to myriad destinations, but don’t have a Disney focus. This usually means they don’t have the expertise to provide high-quality service for Disney destinations.

For this reason, we do not recommend national, non-Disney travel agencies when booking Disney vacations. No offense to Costco or AAA, but they simply cannot compete with the ‘mom and pop shops’ in terms of quality service and knowledge. Agents at the big companies are booking myriad destinations with little experience at many of them.

It’s entirely possible that the agents at Costco, AAA, or other big box travel agencies have never visited Walt Disney World, or at least not within the last year. The best Authorized Disney Vacation Planners visit the parks multiple times per year and keep abreast of all the latest changes. They are Disney specialists, not travel industry generalists.

Unfortunately, big box agencies aren’t the only ones to avoid. In recent years, there has also been a proliferation of Disney travel agencies that are thinly-veiled multi-level marketing schemes (MLMs). These are agencies that exist not to provide exceptional service to clients, but primarily to recruit more agents and grow by charging initiation and training fees. The problem with these agencies is similar to the big box ones–a lack of quality control and subject matter expertise. They will hire any agent who expresses an interest in joining (because that’s their  actual business, not helping clients) and don’t care about the caliber of client service or knowledge of their agents.

There’s no easy way to identify which Disney travel agencies are primarily MLMs. An obvious indicator would be if they recruit you despite your lack of knowledge, but it’s not always that obvious. To each their own, but my rule of thumb is avoiding agencies with hundreds of agents. When it comes to Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, size is a liability and not an asset. Go for a boutique business and get better service.

The second biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is the time-savings. This has become a particularly pronounced advantage in the last couple of years, and is arguably the biggest reason to use a travel agent now–especially if you’re already knowledgeable about Disney.

Currently, Walt Disney World and Disneyland both have staffing shortages. This is a problem throughout the parks and resorts, but nowhere is it more pronounced than the call centers. It used to be the case that you’d wait on hold for a long time only on the days that discounts, special event tickets went on sale, or something else major and new was released.

Long hold times have become the rule rather than the exception. You might think that this is no big deal, as you’ll simply book everything online. That’s a good plan… until something goes wrong. 

Disney IT also isn’t the most reliable; between that and problems with reservations, there’s a strong probability that you’ll need assistance via a call center representative at some point during the planning process. Having an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner deal with this and advocate on your behalf will save you headaches and time waiting on hold, and the benefit of that cannot be overstated.

The third biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planners is saving money. This is not to say travel agents have access to better discounts than you or anyone else–they don’t. (I don’t know why there’s this mistaken belief out there that some travel agents find better or worse prices when it comes to Disney–any variance in pricing is a result of games Disney plays with its inventory and special offers at different times.)

The advantage they do provide when it comes to price is that they are knowledgeable and diligent about discounts, and continue monitoring your reservation even after booking. This can be particularly beneficial if you book far in advance before discounts are released–relevant right now as 2024 Walt Disney World Vacation Packages will be released in June 2023.

I know several Authorized Disney Vacation Planners who get up at 3 a.m. every time Walt Disney World releases a new discount in order to quickly apply the deal to all eligible reservations they’re managing. By contrast, if you learned about the deal a few days later and called Disney to book, a lot of availability would already be gone.

They also know the ins and outs of tweaking reservations so they fall within Disney’s eligibility parameters and are less likely the be excluded from promotions. (All too often, we hear from readers who technically qualify for a discount to be applied to their existing reservation, but Disney finds a way to exclude them due to lack of availability under the promotion or something else.)

So, in that sense, Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are finding better prices for many of their clients, but it’s indirectly as a result of that knowledge and diligence.

The fourth biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is for booking Advance Dining Reservations or ADRs–Disney’s term for restaurant reservations. Guests staying in Walt Disney World resorts can make reservations up to 60 days in advance plus the length of their stay (up to 10 days). This little 60+ days rule quirk is something that can be difficult to explain and comprehend, but knowledgeable travel agents  know it well–and exactly how to leverage it. 

Using the length of stay + 60 day rule, a skilled travel agent will book your ADRs in order of difficulty, so you’re more likely to get the most elusive reservations. And with many restaurants still operating at reduced capacity, ADRs are more competitive than ever–by the time the 60 day mark hits, some will already be fully booked. So if you want character meals or other popular restaurants, your best bet is having an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner make your ADRs.

Beyond that, there are some generalized reasons to use Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. For one thing, they are almost always fans themselves who exclusively plan Disney travel. Most I’ve encountered over the years are good people. The overwhelming majority became travel agents because they’re passionate about planning vacations and became the go-to resource for their friends and family, and just decided to turn it into a job. Out of the Disney TAs I’ve encountered, this is true  at least 95% of the time.

And, because they’re passionate about Disney, they actually know about Disney. A traditional travel agent faces obsolescence because they were (basically) just someone to outsource the booking of vacations and had no firsthand knowledge of destinations to which they booked trips.

On the other hand, Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are only becoming more relevant thanks to the service and answers they provide in response to Disney vacations becoming increasingly complex. They know Disney inside and out (they are literally tested on it!) and have lots of first-hand experience.

They will be up at the 60-day mark to make your Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs), come up with plans to help you score the prime Lightning Lane selections, constantly monitor new discount offers to see if they can reduce the cost of your trip, and generally able to assist with other facets of trip planning.

Beyond that, there’s no cost to you for most travel agents specializing in Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are paid commission by Disney on the trips they book, so you’re usually not paying anything extra. I don’t know why Disney pays them, but my educated guess is because it’s essentially Disney ‘outsourcing’ the planning resources they’d otherwise need to provide. If you’re calling your travel agent, you aren’t calling Disney directly, tying up their guest services or other Cast Members.

This is win-win-win. Disney doesn’t have to deal with your questions, the Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is able to make money doing what they love, and you’re able to get free advice and help planning your trip. The biggest ‘winner’ there is you. One point person gets to know you, is responsive to your requests & questions, and feels a vested interest in making sure you have a great trip. You don’t call Disney, wait on hold for an interminable amount of time, and receive inconsistent answers from random Cast Members.

With that said, an increasing number of Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are charging an additional flat fee or hourly rate for their booking and/or planning services. This comes at a time when Walt Disney World vacations are more complicated than ever, and dealing with Disney (due to the aforementioned staffing shortages) is more time-consuming.

Without question, travel agents are  worth  these extra fees, as their professional expertise and experience is valuable. Whether you want to pay such a fee when free alternatives exist is a matter of personal preference. ( Be Our Guest Vacations , the agency we recommend, currently does not charge any consulting fees.)

The added value and expertise offered by Authorized Disney Vacation Planners is especially true in the era of My Disney Experience, MagicBands, Genie+, etc. The Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is a liaison ( or buffer! ) between you and Disney, putting out fires and fixing problems as they arise. They save you headaches and stress in solving these problems.

Again, I speak from the experience of having to deal with these headaches myself–although things are getting better with these systems. I love Disney Cast Members in the parks, but my experiences have not been overwhelmingly positive on the phone.

With all of that said, using a travel agent isn’t for everyone. Some people have obsessive personalities and like total control over their vacations, or actually enjoy spending hours reading blogs like this one (and thank you to those of you who tolerate all of my corny jokes! 😉 ). Although we used Authorized Disney Vacation Planners years ago, I’ll admit that this now describes me. I love figuring this all out for myself, and I’m a total control freak.

Even if you are a control freak like me, it might make sense to book through a vacation planner so they monitor discounts and be your liaison with Disney in the event My Disney Experience issues arise, while you can do the “fun” stuff like planning ADRs and Genie+. Most vacation planners are as hands on or off as you specify, and it’s pretty easy to let them know what expect of them and what you’d like to do yourself.

If you’re convinced that a travel agent is for you, there are a few things to consider when choosing one. First, while I think it’s poor form to comparison shop or seek information without actual intent to book through them–as this is their job and they’re only paid on bookings they actually make–I do think it’s a good idea to make sure you “click” with an agent after requesting a quote.

It should be pretty easy to tell based on their first email or two whether they’re someone you want to work with, but if you’re still unsure, request a quick phone call. You are trusting this person with your vacation and (potentially) will communicate with them a lot, so you should make sure they aren’t impersonal or will treat you like a number. This is typically a total non-issue, as most vacation planners I’ve encountered are incredibly pleasant and enthusiastic, but it’s good to double-check if things don’t seem right from the get-go.

Second, make sure they’re providing the level of service detailed here. If you want someone to make your ADRs or make recommendations with things like stroller rental, make sure those are things they do. Not all agencies offer the same services, so be sure the one you’re considering will help in the areas you’d like assistance.

Finally, they have to know their stuff. Confirm they’ve been to whichever Disney destination you’re considering (and have been there recently ). If you’re planning a Walt Disney World trip, you don’t want a Disneyland regular–they’re totally different destinations from a planning perspective. If you’re taking a Disney cruise, your travel agent having stayed at every Walt Disney World resort hotel is meaningless. You get the idea. I’m not saying they need to spend 50+ days per year in the parks, but you want them to know their stuff.

Your Thoughts

If you’ve used an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, how was your experience? Which Disney TAs do you recommend? Any other tips you’d like for choosing a vacation planner? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

Written by Tom Bricker

I do want to comment that AAA has a specific branch that specializes in Disney vacations. I have used only one AAA agent for my bookings over the years, and she has a Certified Disney Planner designation. After enjoying this article, I’d say the difference is the other Disney dedicated agents handle all the smaller stuff that I happily do on my own. My AAA agent would not be doing dining reservations I don’t think. I use her for the hotel/tickets package, with the goal of being sure sure of the best price on that potentially high price tag.

If I rent DVC points for my hotel stay, can I still use a Disney Vacation Planner for everything else?

I would imagine there are some that will work with you, but they’ll likely charge a fee. Most of the free ones require a resort reservation through them.

Who “authorizes” Disney travel agents? According to the Walt Disney company, they don’t authorize any and have no official links. So what exactly do you mean by Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? It seems a deceptive designation.

Hi! I think I can answer this. I am an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner”. Basically it is an individual that is signed up under an agency and has registered with Disney and taken all of the required training and tests to be able to sell Disney products. The individual agents are responsible for their actual first hand experience with Disney products. The big agencies he refers to are like Costco and AAA who can sell you Disney products, but they aren’t specifically Disney, and wouldn’t offer any of the specialized services he detailed in this article. They would book your trip, possibly give you perks, but you would be on your own if a new discount was offered, with your dining and Genie+ reservations, etc… and with any personal questions you have.

Can you hire Be Our Guest Vacations to book your Genie+ and ILL reservations each morning of your trip? If not, does anyone know of a travel agent offering that service. (I’m happy to pay.) Thanks!

Oh my God, ! That’s brilliant!

Oh my God, you mad freak! That’s brilliant!

We were going to use a Disney planner but they encouraged us to call “for a quote.” We’d long understood that compensation for their services came from Disney so we avoided that planner company so we wouldn’t have to pay ourselves. But we noticed you’d used “call them for a quote” as well. What kind of quote would they give us if we didn’t have to pay. Confused.

For the price of the vacation package, not their services. You provide party details and resort preferences, and they quote you a price on what Walt Disney World will charge for that. No different than the price quotes you’d get from Disneyworld.com.

I have had a handful of wonderful experiences with Be Our Guest Vacations! Jeanette has been patient and helpful in planning Walt Disney World vacations as well as Disney cruises. She was accessible in a situation where things with the airline went sideways, and found me last minute accommodations so I didn’t have to spend the night in a chair in the Orlando airport. I have not been disappointed!

My husband and I are trying to plan a trip right now for the 4th of July weekend. He is having trouble with people emailing him back or even calling him back. We are finding better ticket prices at Sam’s club but I don’t know anything about what we are doing. We aren’t trying to spend an arm and a leg.

Thanks for sharing this great advice, it will help me a lot.

Do you know of a good planner that you would recommend for my Disney World trip?

I’m having trouble getting return emails. I’ve sent emails to two highly recommended agencies in the past few days and have not received any response. So frustrating

Hi John… interested in having your help. Let’s start the conversation. Target date May 7 – 14, 2021.

We are looking at coming next September. When we book through you; do we pay the $200 deposit to hold it and pay if off 30 days before? Or do we pay for the full trip up front?

Is there a website or somewhere I can find a ADVP in my area? I’d prefer to work with someone who is local 🙂

My question is a little unique. Are there any Authorized Disney Vacation Planners that can help with things like dining reservations, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, etc. if we are staying at Shades of Green? The only thing stopping me from fully committing to Shades is I don’t know if there are any travel agencies that can help with just the reservations (and yes, I’m aware Shades is DoD owned). Thank you so much in advance!

I’m looking to book a trip to Disney World now that it’s open again . Looking at 3 week of September.

I am a little nervous about using a Disney planner since the one I have been in contact with is asking for my credit card information and my account password. I know they need it for reservations, but is there supposed to be a more secure way or is this how it works? Just need some ease of mind!

To my knowledge, that’s the way it works–at least with the credit card. I’ve always wondered why there Disney doesn’t create some sort of secure payment portal.

Thanks for that fast reply!

I requested a quote for an Adventures by Disney and received the first email from one of the agents at BOGV. Do I ask them if they have done the chosen destination? If they haven’t, how do I go about asking for a different agent?

You can certainly ask if you want, but I probably wouldn’t bother. There aren’t a lot of planning variables associated with Adventures by Disney, so they don’t need to have done the itinerary to book and arrange it for you.

You’re highly unlikely to find many travel agents who have done multiple Adventures by Disney itineraries, anyway.

We plan to go next year inAugust, is it too early to email them and start planning? Or will they prefer to wait as it gets closer?

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Thinking About Planning a Disney Vacation? Let MickeyTravels Team Help

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Welcome to MickeyTravels!

MickeyTravels, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, is proud to be one of a select few travel agencies in the world that has been designated by Disney Destinations with  DIAMOND Earmarked status!

We’ve been so proud to be a Platinum level agency the last several years, and we are now ecstatic to be one of a small handful of agencies who have earned the elite Diamond Earmarked agency status for 2023! This is the absolute highest level that can be bestowed upon a travel agency by Disney!

We are recognized nationally as a leader in planning magical Disney vacations and we’re proud to offer industry leading customer service to ALL of our clients. We have been voted BEST TRAVEL AGENCY by multiple newspapers and magazines throughout the country based on all the MAGICAL services we provide.  If you’re searching for the Travel Agents that specialize in Disney destinations , congratulations! You’ve found them at MickeyTravels, your DIAMOND level Authorized Disney Vacation Planners!

We Only Book Disney Vacations – our travel agents spend 100% of their time booking Disney vacations.  Disney is our passion!  Being a “Disney-only” travel agency enables us to keep up to date with all the latest Disney news, deals, discounts, and promotions.  We’re self-proclaimed Disney experts!  Every MickeyTravels agent eats, breathes, sleeps and lives the MAGIC of Disney! The end result is more MAGIC for you!  That’s what you want out of your Disney vacation, isn’t it?

It doesn’t matter if your vacation is for one person or a family reunion of 50 people – we handle each Disney vacation the same!  Our Disney Travel agents are always available & accessible via email or phone to answer any questions you may have – whether it’s advice on which Disney resort to stay in, what Disney restaurant to dine in, or what Disney discounts are available for you to take advantage of…we’re intent on Making Magic One Vacation at a Time… ®

Making Magic ® – You will work hand in hand with one magical Disney Travel Agent throughout your entire planning process! All of our Disney Travel Agents specialize in Disney vacations.  They offer years of experience regarding Disney travel, and are proud graduates of the Disney College of Knowledge! We ONLY plan Disney vacations and as a DIAMOND level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , we are widely considered THE Disney experts at Making Magic ® – that’s what we do!

One Vacation at a Time ® – MickeyTravels personalizes each client’s Disney vacation based on their specific needs and wants. Do you want to plan a vacation to Walt Disney World ® ? Disneyland ® ?  How ’bout a Disney Cruise? Maybe Aulani?  Or what about taking an Adventures by Disney vacation?  Whatever your Disney vacation preference is, be confident knowing that you’ve selected the best Disney travel agency to make your vacation truly magical.

Book Now. Pay Never.  – Our Services are always 100% FREE! As such, when you book your Disney vacation with MickeyTravels, you’ll never pay us a planning fee. That’s right…you get expert planning advice from a DIAMOND Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner…and it’s free! Now that’s magical!

Will you be celebrating an event such as a birthday, an anniversary, or your child’s first Disney vacation? How about a honeymoon or a reunion?  Whatever the occasion, we’ll let Disney know and they’ll make it magical for you.

Want to know where the best locations are for Disney parades & Disney fireworks? No problem!  We’ll let you know! Want a customized itinerary showcasing Disney’s extra magic hours? We can help with that too! We are intent on keeping our eyes & ears open for discounts, promotions and special offers that can save you time AND money even after you’ve booked your Disney vacation!

Do you already have your Disney vacation planned? No worries…It’s possible we can still help – and we may be able to get you a discount too! Visit our Already Have a Vacation Booked? page for more details!

Get a FREE quote or contact us today to learn how MickeyTravels, your DIAMOND level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, can make your Disney vacation MAGICAL…one you and your family will remember forever!

CONTACT US TODAY!

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Countdown to Magic

12 Best Disney World Travel Agents to Book Your Trip

Embark on a magical journey to Disney World with our curated selection of top-tier travel agents. Planning a Disney adventure can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers. Let our guide streamline the process, helping you discover the best Disney travel agents to make your dream vacation a reality.

Unveiling the Best Disney Travel Agents

Up first is Orlando Vacation.

Orlando Vacation

Simplify your booking process with Orlando Vacation.

Their user-friendly website allows you to effortlessly purchase discounted tickets or book a hotel stay at DIsney World or Universal Studios. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a family reunion, Orlando Vacation caters to all your needs.

Why Use Orlando Vacation?

• Family-run business since 1991
• Assist customers with group tickets and theme park youth programs
• The company’s president, Trey Duling, can be contacted directly if you need additional help

Orlando Vacation Reviews :

My husband and I went to Orlando for vacation and booked our trip through OrlandoVacation.com. We stayed at Emerald Island and it looked exactly the way the pictures on the website did.  I was pleased with how clean it was and I am a pretty difficult person to please when it comes to the cleanliness of hotels, resorts, etc.  The Office Manager, Hailee, was simply amazing and provided the best customer service ever! She made our stay in Orlando one we will never forget.  I would definitely recommend using them for your next vacation and we are already planning a return trip!

This Orlando Vacation review comes from Lianne T on Yelp .

Small World Vacations

With years of experience, Small World Vacations stands out as a Diamond level authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

Their dedicated team ensures a personalized planning process, covering everything from ride reservations to finding the best Disney deals.

Small World Vacations has been in operation since 1996 and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau in New Jersey .

Why Use Small World Vacations?

• Small World Vacations is a Diamond Level Disney vacation planner travel agency
• Universal Orlando Resort experts
• Graduates of the College of Disney Knowledge

Small World Vacations Reviews:

I’m so impressed with the TA we’ve been using through Small World because of her amount of knowledge and her level of patience with me. I asked her a ton of questions (an hours worth of talking) before I committed to booking our trip. She’s experienced in her job as well as personal travel to Disney. She sends follow ups when she says she’s going to and I absolutely love all the Disney information they send out (first time Disney trip for us).

This Small World Vacations review comes from kirchemjt on the Touring Plans forum .

Mickey Travels

Join forces with Mickey Travels for an exclusive Disney experience.

As a Diamond level authorized Disney vacation planner, they focus on one client at a time, guaranteeing personalized attention.

From custom itineraries to monitoring discounts, Mickey Travels has your back.

Why Use Mickey Travels?

• Diamond level travel agency
• Focused on “Disney-only” travel destinations
• Can help you even if your vacation is already booked

The Vacationeer

Despite being a smaller agency, The Vacationeer boasts Disney School of Knowledge graduates, ensuring in-depth knowledge and top-notch recommendations.

Their services, specializing in both Disney and Universal vacations, come at no cost to you.

Why Use The Vacationeer?

• The Vacationeer is a Diamond Level Earmarked Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
• Can help plan Disney Cruise Line vacations and Disney VIP Tours 

The Vacationeer Reviews:

Kristin booked our vacation at Universal Studios and it was perfect! We stayed at the Aventura Hotel which is very close to the park, has shuttles all day long and allows you to enter the park one hour before the general public. Kristin booked the rooms and tickets to the park, gave us recommendations for restaurants and even reminded me to be prepared for the afternoon storms and to bring rain ponchos. She communicated with me right up until our trip and remained available for questions or issues that could have come up during our stay. Although we’ve never met in person, I felt as though I’ve known her for a while. So happy we found her and will definitely use her again. Highly recommend!

This The Vacationeer review comes from Sheri D on Yelp .

Mouseketrips

Dedicated to Disney vacation planning, Mouseketrips aims to eliminate confusion from your trip.

As an authorized Disney vacation planner, their staff provides free services, backed by stellar customer reviews.

Why Use Mouseketrips?

• Mouseketrips have been Disney travel agents since 2002
• Mouseketrips focuses solely on Disney vacations

Mouseketrips Reviews:

My family of 3 just got back from a weeks vacation to Disneyworld and Universal Studios Orlando which was all planned out for us by Kelly at Mouseketrips. I am so glad I found out about the company and had Kelly to help us throughout this journey! We planned it about 9 months ago. Kelly let us know when it was time to book restaurant reservations, character interactions etc.

This Mouseketrips review comes from Melanie G on Yelp .

Dreams Unlimited Travel

Dive into the mecca of Disney knowledge with Dreams Unlimited Travel.

As a an authorized Disney vacation planner, they offer a wealth of information on deals, park additions, and more.

Why Use Dreams Unlimited Travel?

• Dreams Unlimited Travel also books Universal Studios vacations
• You can also book non-Disney cruise travel, like Royal Caribbean and Holland America

Dreams Unlimited Travel Reviews:

We’ve been using Dreams Unlimited since our first cruise in 2016. We do it mainly for the on board credit (OBC). If you live in the US/Canada they also mail you a gift basket shortly before your cruise.  With Covid, I am so thankful I used a TA. My 2020 cruise that was booked with an on board booking was cancelled. My TA called for me when I wanted to use the future cruise credit and extended OBB to an 8/21 Fantasy cruise…and then I had her move it to a 6/22 Greek cruise…and then to a 6/22 Fantasy Western Caribbean cruise.  My poor TA had to call each time since I’m using an OBB that was originally going to expire in 8/2020.

This Dreams Unlimited Travel review comes from Geomom at DISboards.com .

Pixie Vacations

Known for attention to detail, Pixie Vacations ensures a personalized touch to your Disney experience.

As authorized Disney vacation planners, they keep you informed about the best vacation deals, providing free quotes on their website.

Why Use Pixie Vacations?

• The owners of Pixie Vacations are former Walt Disney World cast members

Pixie Vacations Reviews:

I contacted Pixie and selected Stephanie and all my plans and wish-list were accommodated. Stephanie is so patient, kind, thorough, detail oriented, trustworthy, organized, approachable, accessible, and most importantly, knowledgeable! We even received a special thank you for booking with her. For a family that rarely travels and definitely resists flying, she made each step stress-free. She sent us a detailed document that provided each encounter of our trip from start to finish including cool travel mentions to guide and/or make our experience better.

This Pixie Vacations review comes from S G. on Yelp .

Be Our Guest Vacations

Enjoy a detailed and charitable approach with Be Our Guest Vacations.

With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau , they donate a portion of their earnings to the Make A Wish Foundation.

Why Use Be Our Guest Vacations?

• Be Our Guest Vacations was founded in 2002
• Be Our Guest Vacations is accredited by IATAN and CLIA

Share the Magic

Share the Magic specializes in Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Universal Studios.

While their website might lack information, their impressive social media presence on Facebook makes up for it.

Why Use Share the Magic?

• Founded in 2019
• Over 150 travel agents available to help you

Destination Magic

A boutique agency with “Magic Makers,” Destination Magic ensures a stress-free vacation planning process.

With nearly 70 agents, each with a profile on their website, you can find the perfect match for your planning style.

Why Use Destination Magic?

• Every Destination Magic planner graduated from The College of Disney Knowledge
• They can book you a Disney World, Disneyland or Disney Cruise vacation

Ears of Experience

Founded over a decade ago, Ears of Experience focuses on creating stress-free Disney vacations.

With over 170 “Mouse Experts,” they cater to families with special needs, providing a personalized touch.

Why Use Ears of Experience?

• Ears of Experience was founded in 2009
• Decades of experience booking Disney vacations

The owner of Ears of Experience has multiple special needs degrees and can advise families traveling with a child that has special needs

Fairytale Journeys Travel

Established in 2010, Fairytale Journeys Travel combines sales expertise and Southern hospitality.

As Platinum Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, they offer free planning services, price monitoring, and a personal concierge service.

Why Use Fairytale Journeys Travel?

• Fairytale Journeys Travel has been on the Disney earmarked agency list for seven years.  They have achieved Platinum Earmarked Agency status from Disney Destinations.

Fairytale Journeys Travel Reviews:

Fairytale Journeys Travel has always been my go-to for all Disney vacations. However, I was never interested in cruises; but with the encouragement and assurance from Susanne, the owner of FTJ Travel, telling me how relaxing, exciting and fun it would be, I boarded the Disney Princess in October of 2018. I had the time of my life!!! 

This Fairytale Journeys Travel review comes from Kat K on Yelp .

What Are Disney World Travel Agents, Anyway?

Disney World travel agents are highly trained, Disney-focused experts who can guide you through every aspect of your vacation. 

Ideal for first-timers, these agents provide information on pricing, restaurant recommendations, theme park passes, and more. 

Hiring a Disney travel agent is usually free, and it ensures a stress-free experience for families, allowing them to focus on creating magical memories at the parks.

Should I Hire a Disney World Travel Agent?

Whether you’re a first-timer, planning a return visit, or managing a busy schedule, hiring a Disney travel agent can enhance your experience. 

For first-timers, the intricate details of Genie+ selections , restaurant reservations, and deal hunting can be overwhelming. A travel agent can navigate these complexities. 

If you’re well-versed in Disney World, a travel agent can still provide valuable insights. Balancing your priorities and preferences, a Disney travel agent ensures a seamless and memorable vacation.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the right Disney travel agent is crucial for a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Our curated list, coupled with your research, will help you find the perfect planner to make your Disney World vacation truly magical. 

Selecting an authorized Disney vacation planner with experience and knowledge ensures a smooth planning process, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the happiest place on Earth. Plan your adventure today and start counting down the days until your Disney dreams come true!

If you enjoyed this article on the best Disney travel agent and agencies on the market, please “like” our Countdown to Magic Facebook page ! If you need additional help with your Disney vacation plans, be sure to visit my detailed Start Here page .

Michael has been visiting Disney World since he was a kid. He's also been to Disneyland and sailed on the Disney Dream. Michael is the owner and editor of Countdown to Magic.

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

June 12, 2023

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent – Easy Startup in Just 1 Day!

Becoming a Disney Travel agent is a dream for so many people. Disney Vacations are so many peoples favorite vacations of all time (including mine), it is an amazing experience to be able to help other families create magical experiences. Luckily, how to become a Disney Travel Agent is not as hard as it seems. With the right agency you can be up and running in just a few hours booking Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and Disney’s Aulani vacations in no time.

What are the requirements to become a Disney travel agent?

There are three basic requirements that are typically associated with becoming a Disney travel agent:

• Knowledge and Passion for Disney: Being well-versed in Disney theme parks, resorts, cruises, and other vacation experiences is essential. You do not need to know all, but the more you know the better you will perform. A genuine passion for Disney and its products will not only help you sell better but also provide excellent customer service to clients.
• Basic Computer Skills: As a travel agent, you’ll need to work with online booking systems, manage itineraries, and communicate with clients via email or other digital platforms. Basic computer skills are a must.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Most clients nowadays book via email or text, that being said the way you communicate with these clients is important. Look for an agency which will teach you sales training.

How do I apply to become a Disney travel agent?

Step 1 in on How to become a Disney Travel Agent is finding the right agency.

To begin, the first step is to join an authorized travel agency that is registered with Disney as a seller of travel. We often recommend Best Day Ever Vacations to people looking to join as Disney Travel Agent. They are a reputable agency that is approved by Disney and has been training agents for years. We have used them numerous times to plan our own trips.

The reason we recommend Best Day Ever Vacations is they are one of the few agencies who specializes in training new agents and doesn’t have any minimum requirements for new agents to book a certain volume. So many agencies, won’t even consider bringing you on as an agent unless you are already booking $50,000 in revenue. At Best Day Ever, they want you to grow as a travel agent at the pace you are comfortable with.

How to Sign Up!

The process of joining Best Day Ever Vacations is easy and can be completed online, and the best part is you need absolutely NO TRAVEL AGENT EXPERIENCE.

They actually have two different courses based on what kind of travel agent you want to be:

• The first is for those who just want to see if being a Disney Travel Agent is for them, someone who is looking to book their families and friends vacations and make a little extra money on the side
• The second is for the person who is looking for the fastest way to become a successful travel agent. It’s a high level course to get you ready to become a successful travel agent.

Once you have joined, you will receive training to become a skilled agent in booking Disney vacations. This training is provided at the time of joining and does not require any previous travel experience. The only essential requirement is a desire to book Disney vacations. However, having a background in sales and customer service can be beneficial.

One key advantage of having prior experience with Disney vacations is that it can help new agents better understand the needs and preferences of their clients. If you have been to one of Disney’s resorts or on a Disney cruise before and have found yourself wanting to go back again and again, this job may be the perfect fit for you.

In addition to offering a rewarding career opportunity, becoming a Disney travel agent allows you to share the magic of Disney with others and help them create unforgettable memories.

It’s important to note that Disney itself does not directly hire travel agents; instead, they work with authorized travel agencies and professionals. If you’re interested in becoming a Disney travel agent, it’s recommended to research and reach out to authorized Disney vacation planners or travel agencies that specialize in Disney vacations. Each agency may have its own set of requirements and application process, so it’s best to inquire directly with them to get the most up-to-date information.

Can I Become a Disney Travel Agent on my own?

If you’re dreaming of becoming a Disney Travel Agent, you might be wondering if you can embark on this adventure solo. The Answer is yes and No. Yes, you can do it alone, but you need to be a part of an agency. Starting your own agency on your own is very expensive and time consuming……. however becoming a travel agent for an agency is a much lower barrier of entry.

Becoming a travel agent with an established agency can run as little as $139 to join and you get all the amazing benefits of being a Disney Travel Agent

But don’t fret – joining an agency doesn’t mean giving up your independence. Many agencies offer flexible working arrangements that allow you to work from home or choose your own hours.

Plus, you’ll benefit from the support and resources of a team of experienced agents who can help you navigate the ins and outs of the travel industry.

So, while you can’t go it alone as a Disney Travel Agent, joining an agency is a smart choice that can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career.

What are the benefits and perks of being a Disney travel agent?”

Let’s get to the best part. Not only do you get to create magical vacations for your clients but you can experience some amazing Disney Vacations with some amazing discounts.

Yup, you heard it right! The Disney Travel Agent program is not just about making money, but also about experiencing the magic of Disney first-hand and at some amazing prices. How cool is that?

Disney wants its agents to be in the know about the amazing vacations they are selling. That’s why they offer special discounts to agents so they can check out resorts and cruises for themselves.

Now, let’s talk discounts! Once you complete your training (or renew it), you can expect some pretty sweet deals from Disney.

• 40-50% off Disneyland Resort Hotels
• 40-50% off Walt Disney World Resort Hotel stays
• 30-40% off Aulani hotel rooms
• Incredible Disney Cruise discounts on select sailings (we have sailed for as little as $25 a day)
• Free 1-day Park Hopper Tickets for Disneyland and Walt Disney World!

Each of these perks can be used one time per calendar year and can be used all over again each following year as long as you keep up on your training (typically 1-2 hours a year)

There is a minor catch. You need to have a CLIA or IATA membership, which you can get from your agency. Some agencies enroll you for free, but there’s usually a cost of $120 per calendar year for an agent ID card. This ID card is necessary to book any of the above perks.

Some agencies require you to book a certain amount before giving you access to a CLIA card, but don’t worry, there are programs like Best Day Ever Vacations that don’t have this requirement. So, get ready to experience the magic and spread the joy of Disney to all your clients!

How Much Can you make as a Disney Travel Agent?

Probably the first follow up question everyone asks after How to become a Disney Travel Agent, is….. How much money can i make?

But, let’s cut to the chase, shall we? The industry standard for commission on a vacation package is 10% before taxes. However, some components, like airfare, may pay less than 10% or not at all. When it comes to Disney, most agencies will get 10% commission across the board with a few exceptions.

But wait, there’s more! As an agent working for an agency, you’ll likely collect less than the 10% commission. That’s because most agencies take about half of your commission for themselves. It’s standard practice, but some agencies offer tier programs that let you keep more as you book more.

If you’re looking for an agency that pays higher commissions, Best Day Ever Vacations . starts new agents out at a whopping 70% commission and let you go up from there! That means if you book a vacation with a commission of $500, you’ll collect $350 at 70%.

Breaking Down Commissions

The cost of an average Disney Vacation for 4 people is $7,367. The agency commission is 10% and you receive 70% of that.

$7367 * 10% = $736.70 * 70% = $515.69 Agent Commission for 1 Booking

Most agents get paid by direct deposit or check, but some can opt for PayPal or Venmo. And if you book just one vacation package a month, you can expect to make around $200-$400. But, if you book a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you could easily make well over $500 on a single booking.

Those cruises can run an average family $5,000 to $12,000, after all. So, get ready to put on your Mickey ears and start planning vacations.

How do I get Clients

This is another very popular questions people ask when talking about How to become a Disney Travel Agent. Obtaining clients is the key to being a successful Disney Travel Agent. There are several ways to grow your clientele.

Personal Networking with friends and family is a great way to get the ball rolling when initially starting.

In addition social media can be the key to growing your clientele. Sharing Disney tips, amazing deals, client success stories is a way to get new clients for years to come. Some agencies like Best Day Ever Vacations offer free templates for Instagram posts to help you get your Instagram page going. Or you can join their premier program and get leads sent to you.

Also, register your name with Google My Business so when people search for Disney travel Agent near me, you pop up.

What is an Earmarked Agency:

Many agency websites display the label “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” or “Earmarked.” This signifies a program that private agencies can choose to join, where Disney recognizes their consistent sales revenue for various products (such as Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, and Walt Disney World) for at least two consecutive years.

Agencies that accept this invitation can advance to different levels within the program, like silver, gold, and platinum. They must maintain or increase their sales each year to remain in the program.

However, the program is optional, and agencies are not obligated to join. Travel agencies that don’t participate in the program still have the same booking tools as those who do, and host agencies usually don’t join because they employ independent contractors instead of workers.

While being an Earmarked agency or an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner does not affect how travel agencies book Disney vacations, it is a recognition of the agency’s commitment to Disney products and their sales performance.

Agencies who participate in the program may have access to exclusive resources, training, and marketing tools, which can enhance their expertise in selling Disney vacations.

On the other hand, agencies who choose not to participate may have other areas of expertise, and they can still provide a high level of service to their clients booking Disney vacations.

Ultimately, whether an agency is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner or an Earmarked agency is not the sole factor in choosing a travel agency for booking a Disney vacation.

Are there Minimums you must sell to be a Disney Travel agent?

So, when it comes to booking with Disney travel agencies, some may have minimum requirements, while others may not. It all depends on the agency you choose to join. Some may ask you to book at least once a month or even once a year, without a specific dollar amount to meet. So, as long as you complete a booking, you’re good to go!

On the other hand, some agencies may have a minimum dollar amount, like $5,000 per year. If you don’t meet this requirement, you may lose your agent status or get a lower commission percentage.

But, if you join the Best Day Ever Vacations , you don’t have to worry about any minimums. Whether you book once a year, three times a year, or never, you’re still considered an agent. Plus, if you book more than 30 trips a year with Best Day Ever Vacations, you can increase your commission percentage from 70%.

The Best Disney Agency to Join

In my opinion, you want to choose an agency that gives you 5 important things, but ultimately it needs to be a right fit for you:

• High Commission Rate so that you can maximize your earning potential
• Training to help you give your clients the best experience
• Low Startup fees so that you can make a profit quickly and don’t get into debt. Some agencies charge between $1000 – $7000 just to join or a monthly fee that you pay forever.
• The ability to book other vacations besides Disney, such as cruises, Universal and more
• No Sales minimums. Some agencies try to enforce minimums to give a reason to take back 100% of the commission. It’s an unfair practice and something that you should watch out for.

Overall, our favorite agency and one we recommend all the time is Best Day Ever Vacations . We have tried a few agencies in the past and this by far has been our best experience.

Conclusion:

The # 1 goal when joining a travel agency is having the support of a good team around you. You also need to ensure that you seek out a trustworthy travel agency that specializes in selling Disney products. For those who wish to solely focus on Disney, consider a company like Best Day Vacations, which offers excellent customer service, free E&O insurance, and is a Registered Seller of Travel in CA and FL.

It is essential to recognize that becoming an agent requires time commitment, particularly during training. Dedicate yourself to completing the necessary training and learning as much as possible before beginning to sell.

While working remotely is a desirable benefit, you must have certain tools, including a laptop, internet, and phone, to effectively perform your duties.

How much do Disney Travel Agents Make?

The range is quite wide and all depends on how many clients a travel agent has. The range for a full time Disney Travel Agent is 23000 – 140,000

Is it Free to Become a Disney Travel Agent

The courses provided by Disney are Free. You just need to be part of a certified travel agency registered with Disney to access the courses and benefits.

How do i be a Travel Agent for Disney

You need to join an agency authorized to sell Disney Travel, such as Best Day Ever Vacations.

Do Disney travel agents get commission on tickets only?

No, Disney Travel Agents make their majority of income on hotels, cruises, and

Pin for later!

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June 13, 2023 at 5:14 am

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June 13, 2023 at 6:26 am

I would like to become a Disney Travel Agent! Thank you for your help!

June 14, 2023 at 4:47 am

Hello I am very interested in becoming a Disney Travel Agent

June 16, 2023 at 2:55 pm

June 16, 2023 at 2:57 pm

I would like to become a Disney travel agent! I love disney! Its so magical and special for all ages and ethnicities!

June 21, 2023 at 9:03 am

I would like some information on how to become an agent. Thank you !

June 24, 2023 at 8:10 pm

I would like to become a Disney Travel Agent. Thank you for your help!

June 25, 2023 at 1:22 pm

I would like to become a Disney travel agency

June 26, 2023 at 7:38 am

I would love to become a disney vacation planner?

June 29, 2023 at 9:10 am

Very interested in becoming a Disney travel agent.

July 1, 2023 at 2:44 pm

I would love to become a Disney Travel Agent!

July 11, 2023 at 2:07 pm

July 15, 2023 at 8:44 am

I’m interested in becoming a Disney travel agent,, please email more information. Thank you.

July 20, 2023 at 8:01 am

July 20, 2023 at 5:16 pm

I would like to become a disney travel agent

July 22, 2023 at 2:18 pm

I would love to become a Disney travel agent.

July 22, 2023 at 10:17 pm

I would love to be a angent

July 24, 2023 at 4:52 pm

I’m interested in learning more about Disney travel agent opportunities.

July 25, 2023 at 9:12 am

July 25, 2023 at 3:44 pm

Hello. I’d love to become.a Disney travel agent. So would be happy to register with Best Day Ever Vacations!!!

July 31, 2023 at 10:57 am

I would like to see if Disney travel agent is for me.

August 2, 2023 at 2:48 am

It was my dream to work in usa as Disney World companies on site work

August 14, 2023 at 12:51 pm

Hello I would love to become a travel agent with your company. I have been to Disney many times and know the in’s and out’s. My family and I have been annual pass holders for 4 years now and love every moment of it. We have been to Disneyland in California. Would love to talk to you more about our experiences.

August 17, 2023 at 3:45 pm

Would love to become a Disney travel agent

August 19, 2023 at 10:31 am

I would love to ese my ears and be a Disney Travel Agent!

August 26, 2023 at 4:23 pm

Looking forward to receiving some info on becoming a travel agent

September 9, 2023 at 2:28 pm

I would love more information on become a Disney travel agent

September 12, 2023 at 10:36 am

I want to become a Disney Travel Agent with Best Day Ever Vacations😄

September 17, 2023 at 12:26 pm

Dvc member/annual pass holder would love to be an agent for the happiest place on earth. Looking forward to receiving information. Thank you!

March 1, 2024 at 9:01 am

I would love to be a Disney travel agent

March 15, 2024 at 7:25 pm

I would love more information about becoming a Disney Travel Agent.

April 15, 2024 at 12:01 am

Subject: Want to become a Disney Travel Agent

Dear Reader,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Norma, and I am writing to express my keen interest in pursuing a career as a Disney travel agent. Having developed a profound appreciation for travel and the unique cultural exchanges it fosters, I am eager to transition my passion into a professional pathway.

During my time spent as a cast member at Walt Disney World, I learned the critical importance of Disney’s Four Keys: Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency. These principles have profoundly shaped my professional approach, guiding me in creating magical and well-organized experiences for guests, and ensuring that every detail contributes to a safe, engaging, and efficient visit. My ability to uphold these standards makes me particularly well-suited to deliver exceptional travel planning services.

Additionally, having visited all the parks and water parks at Disney World, I possess a wealth of Disney knowledge that I am enthusiastic about sharing with families seeking unforgettable vacations. My firsthand experiences and understanding of Disney’s offerings can be a tremendous asset in crafting tailored travel experiences that promise a grand time.

I am particularly interested in specializing in eco-tourism and sustainable travel planning, areas I believe are not only important but essential for the future of global tourism. To advance my understanding and expertise, I am currently exploring relevant courses and certifications, and I am very interested in insights from industry professionals like yourself.

Overall,I aspire to become a Disney travel agent, where I can fully apply the extensive skills and knowledge I have acquired throughout my life. My aim is to leverage my experience as a Disney cast member and my comprehensive understanding of Disney’s parks and services to provide exceptional travel planning services. I am committed to excelling as a travel agent and delivering unparalleled experiences to families looking to explore the magic of Disney.

Is there any way to we could possibly schedule a time to discuss the best approach for someone entering the field, and any advice you might have regarding training and career development opportunities within your organization? I hope to gain some insight and learn more about becoming a travel agent t for your company.

Thank you very much for considering my request. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you and learning from your experience in the industry.

Warm regards,

April 16, 2024 at 8:30 pm

I’d love to be involved

April 26, 2024 at 9:02 am

I have been researching to become a Disney Travel Planner, would like more info please.

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Staten Island parents' legal ordeal ends months after Disney arrest

M ay 17—STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A Staten Island couple's dream Disney vacation ended up turning into a nightmare when they were arrested earlier this year.

Their three-month legal ordeal recently came to an end as Florida authorities moved to drop charges and clear their records.

Court documents state that the pair was charged with felony child neglect after, police had alleged, they found them intoxicated and passed out on the bed in their room at a Disney resort, and that a paper shopping bag filled with empty alcohol cans and bottles was found in the bathroom.

It is not clear who contacted police.

As per the arrest report, the couple was removed from the resort to a hospital before being taken to jail, while the Florida Department of Children and Families initially took custody of the children. They were both later released on bond.

Now, court documents filed last week reveal that prosecutors are no longer interested in pursuing charges against the couple.

"It is the opinion of the writer that this case is not suitable for prosecution," wrote Florida State Attorney Andrew Asher Bain. "Action is taken to clear the records and to release subjects' bond if any has been posted responsive to the above charge(s)."

An attorney for the couple was not listed in court documents.

Their names are being withheld since prosecutors have moved to drop charges.

Staten Island court news

—Appeals Court reinstates $10M malpractice ruling against prominent Staten Island doctor

—He admits to attempted murder in shooting near NYPD stationhouse on Staten Island

—Busted with gun in tinted out BMW, Staten Island man is headed back to prison

—Staten Island man banned from Family Dollar stores as part of plea

—Man ejected from wheelchair on MTA bus on Staten Island, lawsuit alleges

(c)2024 Staten Island Advance, N.Y. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Should I Use a Travel Agent? Our Travel Expert Says It Makes All the Difference.

The new age of travel agents know how to find deals, book off-the-beaten path adventures, and get you out of any jam. Especially if you know who to use.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

I’ve always thought that planning my own trips was the most cost-effective way, but I’ve been hearing more about travel agents making a comeback and saving their clients a lot of money. What kinds of outdoor trips should I turn to a travel agent for, and are there any who specialize in working with adventurers like me?

Technically, I’m a professional traveler. As a journalist, it’s my job to research and connect with locals to get beneath the surface of a destination. So I have never really used travel agents. What could they plan better than I could?

A lot, it turns out. Over the years, I’ve gotten to know many travel specialists, and I consider them magicians. My big aha moment happened two winters ago on a trip to Iceland . A massive storm shut down internal flights for a day, causing me to miss my return flight to the U.S. Normally, I would have spent frustrating hours on hold with the airline. But because I’d paid $65 to have Ana Gloria Garcia, an air-support specialist at the travel agency EmbarkBeyond, find and book the most affordable and convenient flight option for me, she handled the rebookings while I soaked in the Blue Lagoon.

During the pandemic, agents became advocates helping travelers get refunds on canceled flights and trips. As travel has come roaring back, an agent’s superpower is now their access to the best hotel rooms, most in-the-know guides, free amenities, and more, says Cory Hagopian, senior vice president of sales and partnerships for Virtuoso , a global network of travel agencies.

And they’re attracting a young clientele. According to a recent industry survey , 38 percent of millennials and Gen Zers are opting to use travel agents as opposed to booking on their own trips. That number is far greater than Gen Xers and baby boomers, of whom only 12 and 2 percent respectively use agents.

What Do I Gain from Using a Travel Agent?

I recently had a friend tell me she spent close to 40 hours researching a family trip online. She probably could have gleaned the same intel from an hourlong conversation with a travel adviser. Knowledge is priceless, and advisers act as your insiders. They know what you don’t and fill in the blanks for things you might not have considered, says Erika Richter, a spokesperson for the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). Their firsthand knowledge, vast network, and on-the-ground connections all combine to provide a unique perspective for crafting the perfect itinerary for you.

Most travel advisers specialize in certain regions and countries and travel to them frequently, so they have up-to-date intel on not only the best safari camps but the perfect tent to book for the most incredible views and the best local restaurants you won’t find on Tripadvisor. They want their client’s trips to go well to keep them coming back, so it’s in their interest to have sussed out hotels and itineraries before they send you out into the world.

Nicole Forster, 29, considers herself a savvy traveler. She’s been to 20-plus countries and enjoys destination research. But when it came to planning her honeymoon in Africa, she felt overwhelmed, so she reached out to Danielle Meyer at Coastline Travel Advisors , which specializes in bespoke itineraries. “Originally, I wanted to go to South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Madagascar,” Forster recalls. “Danielle convinced me that if we wanted to relax, we should stay in South Africa and save the other countries for separate trips.”

Over five phone conversations and multiple emails, they crafted a 15-night itinerary that included Cape Town, the winelands, the Cape Peninsula, and a safari at the Thornybush Game Reserve. Forster established her budget early in the process, and Meyer sent her a variety of lodge options to choose from.

“I initially wanted to start with the safari, but she pointed out that we’d be jet-lagged and would need to wake at sunrise for game drives,” says Forster. “The safari was our highlight, so it was a perfect way to end the trip.”

Not only did Meyer book all of the flights, hotels, and transfers, but she created a detailed, day-by-day trip app for the couple that included useful information like check-in times at hotels and how much to tip guides .

Agents also act as advocates. If something goes wrong during your travels, they’re on call 24/7 to handle it. When Forster left the battery and charger for her camera at a hotel, Meyer arranged for an on-the-ground contact to go to a camera store and buy new ones that would be delivered to her hotel the next day.

The cost for the honeymoon planning: $150 per person. “I wouldn’t use a planner for a trip to Hawaii ,” Forster says, “but if I ever took a big trip like this again, I’d 100 percent work with an expert.”  

When to Consider Using a Travel Agent

For savvy trip planners, the best time to use a travel agent is for complicated international travel. It can save you hours of planning and peace of mind that if anything goes wrong in your chosen far-flung destination, there’s someone a What’sApp message away to handle it.

Domestically, I’d consider using a travel agent when planning a multi-week national park trip or multi-island trip in Hawaii. They will save you time, guarantee you get the best guides, and help you land reservations at always-booked lodges and hotels.

Dream Trips Delivered

Jessica Cook and her husband both work in the travel industry. Decision fatigued, they handed their honeymoon logistics over to the team at Askari Travel , an agency that specializes in South Africa. Their original plan was also an African safari, but just as they were about to put a deposit down, the Omicron variant of the coronavirus made headlines. Worried about getting stuck abroad, they reached out to Askari’s founder, Muriel Truter, who is from Zimbabwe, and upon her advice, changed their focus to South America.

Knowledge is priceless, and advisers act as your insiders. They know what you don’t and fill in the blanks of things you might not even have considered.

Truter suggested they stick to Colombia rather than country-hop. Cook supplied a budget and a wish list: 12 days, no more than three destinations, a barefoot-luxe feel, and adventures like horseback riding and mountain biking. The rest was a surprise that Askari pretty much nailed, with the exception of one hotel.

“Everything felt so authentic, but this one hotel on Barú island felt really fabricated and was full of American tourists,” recalls Cook. She immediately messaged the Askari team, saying, “Hey, this place really isn’t our vibe,” and within an hour they were on a water taxi headed to Blue Apple, a B Corp hotel—and an Outside pick for tropical adventures —on Tierra Bomba island. “It was honestly the best trip we’ve ever taken,” she says.

Are Travel Agents Expensive?

It depends. Cost varies. Some travel agencies won’t charge any fee, as they receive a commission from the bookings, while some high-end agencies will charge pricey annual membership fees for their services. Still others charge nominal “professional” fees starting at $150. Fees often fluctuate based on the length and intricacy of a trip and how far out you do the planning (6 to 12 months is recommended). You may occasionally come across agents who charge a percentage of the total trip price or hourly rates.

Basic travel enquiries are generally free. In 2016, Leah Smith, founder of Tafari Travel , opened an old-school brick-and-mortar location in Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood so her services would feel less intimidating to first-time users. “With our retail-office location, we’ve become part of the community, and both clients and non-clients are welcome to pop in and ask whatever questions they may have, no charge,” she says.

Matt Lindsay, founder of the surf-guiding and travel company LuxSurf Travel , builds relationships with resorts and property owners to get discounted rates that he can then pass on to guests.

Dominic Allan, the founder of Real Latin America , specializes in travel to Belize and Nicaragua and caters to independent travelers who are happy to book their own flights and hotels but are seeking his local intel. Allan’s three-tier pricing structure starts at $300 for up to three hours of phone calls, during which he might weigh in on where to eat (or not to), the best room to request in a certain lodge, or whether you really need a guide to hike.

Value Versus Savings

If you’re just looking for deals and steals, you might not be ready to work with a travel adviser, says Richter of the ASTA. “Anything you invest in with a travel adviser comes back to you in the form of amenities, customer service, peace of mind, better access to unique experiences, and handcrafted itineraries,” she says. “You could save money by cutting your own hair, too, but most people go to someone who knows what they’re doing.”

Agents work with preferred partners who can guarantee perks for clients, such as free upgrades, early check-in or late check-out, and resort credits. Those add-ons often translate into savings, says Justin Huxter, cofounder of the UK-based Cartology Travel . “We had a client go to Maui for a week, and because of our partnership with the resort, breakfast was included,” he says. When breakfast costs $120 for two, that’s a savings of $840.”

Some of the Best Travel Agents in the Adventure World

Some of my go-to resources for finding a person to work with include travel expert Wendy Perrin’s annual Wow List of tried and trusted agents, the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s adviser network , and the ASTA’s advisor directory .

In addition to the agents mentioned throughout this story, others I highly recommend for adventurous travelers include:

• Dan Achber of Trufflepig , for Africa and the Middle East
• Miguel Cunant of Sri Lanka in Style
• Javier Echecopar of Journey Costa Rica
• Daniel Fraser of Smiling Albino , for Southeast Asia
• Elizabeth Gordon of Extraordinary Journeys , for Africa
• Kleon Howe of the Art of Travel , for French Polynesia
• Jay Johnson of Coastline Travel , for Hawaii and California
• Antonello Losito of Southern Visions Travel , for Puglia, Italy
• Rabia Malik of Fora Travel , for general worldwide travel
• Robyn Mark of Mayamaya Travel , for Africa, the Alps, Patagonia, and Japan
• Marisol Mosquera of Aracari , for Peru and Bolivia
• Zach Rabinor of Journey Mexico
• Raluca Spiac of Beyond Dracula , for Romania

Travel-advice columnist Jen Murphy is now a believer in using a travel agent. Thanks to their expertise and connections, she’s avoided dozens of trip catastrophes. 

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