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21 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas

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Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on July 21, 2022 Updated on July 4, 2024

The tourism industry is massive and diverse, offering many opportunities for sharp entrepreneurs. You could start a travel agency, a campground, a hotel, or a concierge service. Explore many more excellent tourism and travel related business ideas in our list below.

1. Travel Agency

If you love to travel and are always planning your next trip, starting a travel agency might be the perfect career choice. It’s a great way to share your love and knowledge of travel, and it can be very lucrative.

If you have the resources, starting a travel agency business can be a breeze. But first, you need to identify your target market. Will you focus on domestic or international travel? A lot of Americans go on short trips for vacation or business purposes, providing an opportunity for travel agencies to earn money. Once you find your niche and draw up a business plan, you should work on establishing your brand and promoting it to find clients.

2. Nightclub

Do you enjoy late nights on the town? If so, starting a club might be right up your alley. Before you open your club, it’s important to know that the industry is heavily regulated, especially when it comes to alcohol consumption. You’ll need to meet both state and local regulations and licensing requirements so it’s best to inquire about the details from your local authorities first.

Next, it’s a good idea to research the market and find out what other clubs in your area are offering. You’ll have to innovate and come up with a unique selling proposition and a creative marketing plan for your club to attract customers. With these in place, your club can be very profitable.

3. Travel Photography

Are you an amateur photographer who loves snapping great images? Photography in the US is an $11 billion industry expected to see steady growth in the coming years, so now would be a great time to stretch your entrepreneurial wings and give it a shot. You could focus on travel photography, if that’s your passion, and give the world beautiful photos while also seeing the world. You can capture landscapes, people, cultures, customs, and history.

Assuming you already have a professional-level camera, you’ll just need some great editing software and to build a website showing off your portfolio and listing your prices and services. Instagram and Pinterest are perfect social media networks for showing your travel photography.

If you’ve stayed in an Airbnb, you probably know how sweet it is to have a home away from home! This is why the homestay segment of the hotel and lodgings market has seen explosive growth in recent years, with Airbnb leading the way. Renting out your home as an Airbnb is an easy and flexible way to earn income, whether you’re looking for a little extra money or to build a serious business. 

The first step is to make sure your home or apartment can be rented out for short-term stays. In many areas today, there are laws either banning Airbnb rentals or limiting them to a certain share of local units. If your home clears that hurdle and is in an area with some tourist appeal, you’re already halfway there. If your apartment fails to meet one of these requirements, you might want to look into purchasing a home or apartment in an appealing destination, which you could then develop into a successful Airbnb. 

Whichever approach you choose, the most important step is delivering fantastic service to your guests. If you can achieve Superhost status, you’ll be well on your way to Airbnb success.

5. Translation Business

Demand for translation services is expected to grow as more companies seek to capture or increase their share of the global market. Translation businesses help translate documents, localize travel and city guide websites, and interpret speech, including sign language. If you’re thinking of starting a translation business, you’re not alone. But if you have the skills and the right talents and tools, you could edge out the competition. 

In this internet age, finding translators who can work remotely across the globe has become easier. Promoting diversity among your staff could also be good for your business because you’ll be able to offer translation services for more languages. Do the paperwork to register your business, keep yourself updated with the latest technologies, promote your services, and you should be able to gain traction as soon as you start operating.

6. Bed and Breakfast

Many Americans still prefer to stay in a traditional B&B for the unique hospitality, homemade food, and fascinating local insights. When starting a B&B, it’s important to be aware of the latest industry trends. For example, many guests prefer a facility that offers live entertainment or is located close to tourist attractions. It’s also to your advantage to research the market and see what features and services are being offered by the competition. Be innovative in coming up with ways to differentiate your business. Running a bed and breakfast is not easy, but it can be very rewarding if you play your cards right. 

7. Glamping

A decade ago nobody had heard the word glamping, which is short for “glamorous camping”. Today it’s a nearly $3.1 billion global industry and among the fastest-growing segments of the travel and hospitality market, expected to more than double by 2030. If you have a bit of land in an appealing location, or have the funds to purchase such a plot, you could start your own glamping business and make a good living offering luxury experiences to discerning travelers.

There will be some serious work involved. In addition to acquiring the property, you’ll need to outfit it with all the bells and whistles — from tents and teepees to high-end beds, furniture, lighting and air-conditioning and heating units. If your location is on the water, you could boost your revenue by also offering sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and more. But before you get started, this is a new and fast-evolving industry, so it’s best to take the time to research the market and learn the latest trends before diving in.

8. Jet Ski Rental

Do you like having fun out on the water? Well, so does everybody else! That’s why starting a jet ski business is almost always a great idea. The global personal watercraft market is worth $1.6 trillion and expected to expand an impressive 50% by 2027. Right now is a great time to start a jet ski business, bring good times to your community and ride the market expansion to great success. 

Getting there will require a significant investment. You’ll need to spend about $25,000 to get your first few jet skis, plus a rental facility on the water and permits and licensing fees. Of course, you’ll also need to live near an appealing body of water, preferably one that’s enjoyable for more than a few months of the year. Finally, you will want to get good insurance, because jet skis are as dangerous as they are fun.

Once that’s all settled, just start advertising on local outlets and events, posting on relevant social media groups and online vacation platforms. You’ll have your first few customers in no time, and soon be cruising toward success.

9. Campground

Do you love the outdoors? If so, setting up a campground could be the perfect way to start your entrepreneurial journey. The recent study found that an estimated 84.8 million Americans went camping in 2023, and 5.5 million of those were first-time campers.

Your biggest challenge in starting a campground is likely to be finding a suitable location. The most visited campgrounds in the US are in state parks, near bodies of water, surrounded by wilderness, or in the mountains. Once you find an ideal campsite, you’ll need to comply with licensing, zoning, and other legal requirements. Before you launch your business, it’s wise to research the market and find out what other campgrounds are offering. With careful planning and a creative marketing strategy, your campground can give competing sites a run for their money.

10. Pet Sitting

You’d probably never guess that pet sitting is a $2.4 billion industry , but it is indeed. People love their pets, and will spend whatever it takes to ensure they’re taken care of when they are away. The pet sitting market is projected to see impressive growth through 2030, so if you’re an animal lover, now is the perfect time to start your own pet sitting business and ride that wave to serious profits. 

The first step is to decide which type of pets you’ll care for. Do you have more experience with dogs or cats? Are you OK with snakes? Pigs? Once you’ve got that nailed down, you’ll just need to buy some pet toys and supplies and offer your services on a gigs site like TaskRabbit. It’s a good idea to reach out to friends, family and work-related contacts and acquaintances. If you’re able to generate an initial client or two from your own personal network, and provide them with great service, you’ll have a strong reference to promote your services and start building a successful business.

11. Spa Salon

If you’re a massage therapist or esthetician, you could open a beauty salon, nail spa, luxury spa, massage studio, or even a mobile spa, and make people feel better while making a good living.  

You will likely need to get licensed, which can take some doing, and deliver excellent services to compete in an increasingly competitive and saturated market. Another crucial aspect will be location — your spa should be somewhere with steady traffic. Or you could go the mobile spa route and make house calls, bringing your massage and therapeutic services to your clients. This is more convenient for them, which means you can charge a higher rate, despite having lower overhead.

There are many elements to consider for your spa business, but what is not in doubt are your chances of success if you’re determined and can deliver healing services.

12. Scooter Rental

With gas prices going up, more and more Americans are turning to cheaper, more eco-friendly options for their commute and for seeing the city. Scooters cost less than cars and run on electricity. Over the past decade, Americans took a third of a billion trips on shared bikes and scooters. That’s a huge number, and it’s expected to increase sharply in the next few years. Considering this, a scooter rental business is a smart choice.

But first, it’s important to understand that scooters are used primarily as a transport option for short distances. Setting up this kind of business requires a huge upfront investment because you might have to purchase some scooters, unless you can lease them. You’ve need to make sure you have all the necessary permits and insurance in place before opening.

Once you have everything you need, it’s a good idea to work on a marketing plan. You can use social media, print ads, and word-of-mouth to get the word out about your new venture.

13. Party Bus

Ready to party? As the pandemic recedes, everybody’s getting back out there to have a good time. For a lot of people that means renting out a party bus and dancing and drinking the night away while cruising down the streets.

Starting your own party bus business will require considerable investment. The major cost will be, of course, the bus itself. Hopefully you’ll be able to find a reliable one at a reasonable price and then deck it out with all the trimmings, from a bar and disco ball to a DJ booth and more. Once you’ve done some marketing and gotten the word out you’ll be able to charge as much as $700 per night, so it shouldn’t take too long before you see a major return on your investment. 

Just be sure to get all your licenses, permits and insurance — the last thing you want is for the party to get parked on the curb.

14. Car Rental

With some hard work and determination, you could start your own car rental business and provide travelers the transport they need while grabbing your share of a growing $30 billion US market .  

Keep in mind that this is a competitive industry, which means you’ll need to find ways to stand out, such as with deep discounts or a unique selection of cars. Speaking of which, you’ll also need to lay out a sizable investment to get your initial fleet of four to five cars. Finally, it’s crucial that you meet all the licensing and insurance requirements or your business could face severe fines, or worse.

But if you’re able to clear these hurdles, there’s a good chance your car rental business will soon be cruising down easy street.

15. Boat Rental

Who doesn’t love a day out on the water? There are so many things to do. from skiing and tubing to cruising, socializing, swimming and just taking in the sun. That’s why boat rentals are a $5.3 billion US industry expected to see smooth sailing and steady growth in the years ahead. If you like spending time outdoors, you could start your own boat rental business and help people enjoy their time off while making a good living. 

There are several possible constraints. For one, you should live near a sizable body of water, and find an available access point or marina to base your operations. Second, you’ll likely need to accept the seasonal nature of this line of work, which in most areas of the US will only bring in revenue for 6-7 months of the year. Finally, getting started will require a significant investment, as appealing, rentable boats do not come cheap. 

But if you’re OK with all this, and able to acquire the necessary permits and insurance, once you start putting boaters on the water you’ll be cruising straight toward success.

16. Bike Rental

As travel regains steam and more workers return to the office, demand for bike rental for last-mile connections is sure to increase. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, a bike-share outfit or bike rental shop could be a great option. The US bike rental industry is projected to grow in the next five years amid a bike-share boom, driven in part by environmental concerns.

There are a few things you need to consider before starting a bike rental business. Is there a market for bike rental in your area? What kind of bikes should you offer? How many bikes should you start with? You will find the answers to these questions as you research the market. It is also important to comply with all the legal and regulatory requirements and to come up with a good marketing plan. One option is to place bike docks near subway stations and major bus stops.

17. RV Rental

RVing , or traveling in a recreational vehicle, is a popular way of exploring the US with family and friends. It’s showing no signs of slowing as more than 70 million Americans are expected to go on road trips in an RV they rent, own, or borrow, according to the RV Industry Association. You could start an RV rental business and tap into this exciting travel market.

You can either invest in a fleet of RVs, which would require a hefty investment, or you can just list your RV on an online marketplace like Outdoorsy. Before setting your rates, it’s a good idea to scope out the market and find out what your competitors are charging. You’ll have to factor in insurance and other costs in order to make a profit.

Finally, it’s important to keep your RVs well-maintained to attract customers, most of whom prefer to rent out new units. With all this in place, your RV rental business will making good money in no time.

18. Kayak Rental

As more people explore the outdoors in a post-pandemic world, a kayak business makes sense. It’s an eco-friendly way to help travelers enjoy their time off while getting some exercise and enjoying the great outdoors. The global kayak accessories market size was $164.2 million in 2020 and will touch $214 million by 2027. So, why not start a kayak rental business now?

Aside from offering kayaks for rent, you could also also offer apparel and helmets, storage bags, seats, life jackets, and safety gear. Selecting the location of your shop is important. It will have to be near the coast, a river or a lake, and with steady foot traffic. You’ll need a substantial investment to set up your shop. Finally, it’s a good idea to promote your business and let people know about your offerings.

Considering all the ride-sharing apps out there, you might be surprised to learn that old-school taxis are not only surviving, but doing quite well. The US taxi and limo market is worth more than $41.7 billion and expected to see steady growth in the coming years. If you enjoy driving and meeting new people, starting a taxi business might be the right move for you. 

Getting started will require some real effort and investment. You’ll need to buy a reliable car, if you don’t already have one, plus reliable insurance and all the necessary permits. In some cities the car hire license can be a major expense, for instance a New York City taxi medallion costs $80,000. In other places, like $300 in Cleveland, not so much. Once you’ve all set up, it’s a good idea to build a website so people can find you, and you might want to offer an app as well, as most car services nowadays offer on-demand ordering. 

Finally, get creative with your marketing to stand out in a competitive market, provide excellent service and steady driving to your first few clients, and the good reviews and revenues should start pouring in.

20. RV Park

The wanderlust spirit and a rise in road-tripping have amplified the allure of RV travel. Capitalizing on this trend, starting an RV park presents a golden opportunity in the travel business sector. Such parks cater to a growing demographic of explorers seeking the comfort of their RVs while embracing the freedom of the open road. With the right amenities and a strategic location, an RV park can be a haven for both short-term travelers and long-term nomads.

Location is paramount, ideally near popular tourist spots or natural attractions. Additionally, ensuring modern facilities, security, and possibly offering unique experiences or events can differentiate your park from competitors. As travel patterns evolve, an RV park can offer travelers a blend of adventure and convenience, making it a profitable and sustainable business venture.

21. Tour Operator

Tour operator business thrives on curating unique experiences, offering tailored packages, and ensuring travelers get the best out of their journeys. Unlike general travel agencies, tour operators control and manage the specifics of the trip, right from itinerary planning to the on-ground execution. This means creating partnerships with local businesses, ensuring safety standards, and offering a seamless travel experience to clients.

In today’s digital age, a tour operator’s success doesn’t just hinge on local networking, but also on a strong online presence. Reviews, testimonials, and digital marketing strategies play a pivotal role in attracting potential customers. Whether one chooses to cater to adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, or luxury travelers, the key is to differentiate, maintain high service standards, and keep evolving with the dynamic travel industry.

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• Travel Agency
• Travel Photography
• Translation Business
• Bed and Breakfast
• Jet Ski Rental
• Pet Sitting
• Scooter Rental
• Boat Rental
• Bike Rental
• Kayak Rental
• Tour Operator

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Small Business Trends

15 innovative travel business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs.

As the world finally opens up for business, the beleaguered travel industry is getting its groove back. Not surprisingly, this is attracting a number of small business owners to explore travel business ideas.

What Are Travel Businesses?

Travel businesses primarily revolve around providing diverse services that facilitate and enhance the experience of traveling.

These services can range from arranging lodging accommodations, vehicle rentals for transportation, curated excursions, and immersive activities that allow travelers to deeply engage with the local culture.

While the travel sector primarily focuses on the logistics of transportation and lodging, it deeply intertwines with the broader tourism industry.

Together, they aim to create memorable experiences for tourists, catering to their varied preferences and ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.

READ MORE: Build A Travel Business You Can Sell With These 5 Tips

Be sure to check out Income Hub’s article, “7 Travel Business Ideas Trending With Low Startup Costs,” after you’re done reading:

The Travel and Hospitality Industry

The unanticipated global pandemic wreaked havoc on the travel and tourism sector. Consequently, and for a prolonged two-year period, businesses worldwide faced unprecedented challenges as international and domestic movements came to an almost complete standstill.

However, there’s renewed optimism that this is the year the industry will make a triumphant comeback. The continued prevalence of flexible working arrangements has given birth to a new category of travelers – those combining work with leisure.

Responding to this change, the travel industry is innovating to integrate work-friendly environments, such as co-working spaces within hotels or resorts.

Furthermore, a significant shift towards sustainable travel is becoming increasingly evident. Today’s travelers are not just satisfied with basic eco-friendly initiatives. They are actively seeking out holistic, sustainable travel experiences.

This encompasses everything from choosing accommodations that practice waste reduction, opting for transportation methods with a smaller carbon footprint, to prioritizing dining options that serve vegan dishes and use locally-sourced ingredients.

Why You Should Consider Starting Your Own Business In Travel

From a commercial standpoint, this is perhaps the best time to start your own business in travel.

Let’s take a look at the factors that make this a lucrative business opportunity.

• Potential to earn more: As traveling regains popularity, there are abundant opportunities to increase your income.
• Choose your domain: Another great thing about starting a travel-related business is you have plenty of options to explore. For example, you may choose to specialize in a domain such as travel photography or travel consulting based on your interest.
• Do without an office: Thanks to digitalization, a number of small travel businesses have gone completely online. This saves these online business owners both time and money.
• Partner with other service providers: As a business owner in this sector, you don’t have to venture out alone. You can easily tie up with other service providers and offer a better deal to your customers.
• Low startup cost: Many small businesses prefer the travel industry because of the low startup cost. Depending on the scale you have in mind, you can keep your business profitable.

READ MORE: Small Business Ideas for Beginners

Our Methodology to Choose the Best Travel Business Ideas

When exploring travel business ideas, it’s crucial to choose concepts that are not only viable in the current travel market but also resonate with the entrepreneur’s interests and capabilities. Here’s the methodology we used to evaluate potential travel business opportunities:

Market Demand and Travel Trends (Rating: 9/10)

Assessing the current and emerging trends in the travel industry was our starting point. We focused on business ideas that cater to popular travel trends, such as eco-tourism, adventure travel, or luxury experiences.

Niche Market Opportunities (Rating: 8/10)

We looked for niches within the travel sector that offer unique opportunities. This includes specialized tour services, niche accommodation options, or catering to specific traveler demographics.

Low Initial Investment and Overhead (Rating: 7/10)

Considering the startup costs and ongoing operational expenses was crucial. We prioritized travel business ideas that require minimal initial investment and have manageable overhead costs.

Flexibility and Lifestyle Fit (Rating: 8/10)

The travel industry often allows for flexibility in terms of operation. We selected ideas that can adapt to the entrepreneur’s lifestyle, whether they seek full-time engagement or part-time involvement.

Profitability and Revenue Streams (Rating: 8/10)

Evaluating the potential for profit and diverse revenue streams was key. We looked for travel business ideas with a clear path to profitability, including opportunities for ancillary services and upselling.

Scalability and Expansion Potential (Rating: 7/10)

The potential for scaling and expanding the business was another important factor. We considered travel business ideas that can grow over time, either through geographical expansion, franchising, or diversifying services.

Personal Passion and Expertise (Rating: 8/10)

Finally, aligning the business with personal interests and expertise in travel is vital. We focused on ideas that match the entrepreneur’s passion for travel, enhancing their dedication and satisfaction.

By applying these criteria, we aimed to identify travel business ideas that not only promise profitability and market relevance but also align with the entrepreneur’s passion for travel and lifestyle preferences.

Popular Travel Business Ideas

Today, the travel business goes beyond setting up an agency. Thanks to customers who continue to look for better options, there are a number of profitable travel business ideas. Let’s explore some of these in detail.

1. Tour Guide Business

This is the ideal business idea if you don’t have the capital to invest in your business – at least not in the initial phase. To succeed, you should have knowledge about the location where you operate. You should also be based in a place that draws enough travelers.

2. Bed and Breakfast Business

If you want to turn your home into a business location, a bed and breakfast is the right option for you. To make it popular with many travelers, you need to offer a truly great experience. This includes having a real passion for hosting different people and making them feel comfortable during their stay.

3. Car Rental Business

Many travelers rely on cars to move around when they travel. For this reason, a car rental is the most obvious choice for many of these travelers. If you have experience with automobiles and their maintenance, this business can work for you.

4. Scooter Rental Business

Many leisure travelers prefer using scooters, especially when the weather is great outdoors. To be able to start this business, you should have at least 3-4 scooters. You should also have in-depth knowledge about scooters.

5. Travel Photography Business

If solopreneurship is your calling, starting a travel photography company is one of the obvious choices. As a travel photographer, you have the flexibility and freedom to travel, take pictures and make money. Moreover, if you’re truly talented, you can make a lot of money through the various stock photography websites.

6. Translation services

Another popular option for those who want to run their business independently is translation services. And this skill will come in handy when you are contending with customers coming from the outside. As such, your ability to converse fluently in more than one language is especially useful when you are in a busy town that sees a lot of travelers.

7. Medical Tourism

In recent years, medical tourism has become widely popular in various parts of the world. In addition to the modern medical sciences, many people are interested in holistic, traditional treatment options. It goes without saying you need to have the right credentials to be able to start this lucrative business.

8. Adventure Trips

Adventure tourism is a niche within the travel industry. Extremely popular with young people, it is a great service-based business. Generally, you will have to gain experience and credentials to start this type of business.

9. Event Planning

Another business model that pays pretty well is corporate event planning. As an event planner, you will be responsible for designing unique corporate events. Be that as it may, this is not a one-person business. You will need a personal assistant and some extra manpower to succeed.

10. Travel Blogging

Making money through their travel blog is a full-time job for a number of travelers. Therefore, if you have the passion to write and document your adventures, you can turn yourself into a social media influencer. Of course, competition on social media platforms is quite fierce, but with good content, you can easily stand out.

More Great Ideas for Traveling Businesses

With several options to choose from, zeroing in on the best travel business idea may seem challenging. The trick is to focus on where your passion truly lies. Let’s explore some more ideas for your business.

11. Coffee Shop

Travelers all over the world need coffee to keep themselves energized. A coffee shop, therefore, is a great idea to attract a client base. Your choice of location will matter greatly when you set up your shop.

12. Glamping Business

Glamping brings glamor to the fun outdoor activity of camping. The idea is to create a sophisticated ambiance for campers. Of course, you need a great location and the right services in place to succeed with this.

13. Kayak Tours

Many adventurous travelers enjoy kayaking. But since bringing a kayak is often not an option for them, they have to rely on local businesses. Fortunately, this is where you can make a difference and make money through adventure sports.

14. Water Taxi Service

Depending on the location, you can offer water taxi services to your customers. This business requires you to make a small capital investment.

15. Travel Agency

Setting up an agency is a great idea if you have the adequate knowledge and manpower to cater to your customer demands. Meanwhile, if you lack the manpower, you can work as an independent operator or partner with a major travel company.

READ MORE: How to Start a Travel Agency

Comparison of Popular Travel Business Ideas

To better assist aspiring entrepreneurs in selecting a suitable travel business venture, we’ve compiled a table that compares various business ideas based on their startup capital requirement and potential profitability:

Technological Adaptations in the Travel Business Landscape

As the travel industry continues to evolve, it is undeniable that technology-driven innovations are at the forefront of this transformation. From the emergence of smart hotels and immersive AR/VR experiences to the convenience of contactless solutions and the precision of AI-powered personalization, travelers are witnessing a revolution that promises a more seamless and efficient journey.

Here’s a closer look at some of these cutting-edge advancements :

• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality Tours: While VR provides an immersive experience where users feel like they are in a different location, AR enhances real-world views by overlaying them with digital elements, such as historical information or interactive exhibits. Both these tools allow potential travelers to explore and interact with a location or accommodation before making a booking, offering an enriched pre-travel experience.
• Contactless Technology : Given the hygiene concerns post-pandemic, the adoption of contactless payments, check-ins, and digital room keys has increased, ensuring safety and convenience for travelers.
• AI-Powered Personalization : To enhance customer experience, businesses are increasingly leveraging Artificial Intelligence. AI tools analyze past travel behaviors to recommend tailor-made travel packages, ensuring a more personalized journey for each traveler.
• Environmental Monitoring Tools : With the rising emphasis on sustainable travel, some innovative platforms now offer real-time data on the environmental impact of travel choices. This can cover carbon footprints, energy consumption, and waste production, allowing travelers to make more informed, eco-friendly decisions.
• Mental Well-being Focus : Recognizing the pandemic’s toll on mental health, travel packages often include mindfulness and wellness components. Retreats, yoga sessions, and mental well-being workshops are becoming popular inclusions in travel itineraries.
• Smart Hotels: The concept of “Smart Hotels” encompasses automated room settings, robot-assisted services, integrated mobile apps, energy efficiency systems, and personalized guest experiences, revolutionizing the stay experience for travelers.

How Do You Start Your Own Travel Business?

Launching a travel business begins with a concrete vision and a meticulously detailed business plan. It’s pivotal to understand that while some niches in the travel segment might be lucrative, they may also demand a considerable initial financial outlay.

Thus, potential entrepreneurs should thoroughly evaluate their financial standing and possibly gravitate towards business models that are more budget-friendly, especially if initial capital is a concern.

Beyond finances, it’s crucial to introspect and understand the intrinsic motivations pushing one towards this industry.

Is it a passion for travel, an interest in other cultures, or the thrill of entrepreneurship? Recognizing this driving force can guide the business’s direction and ethos.

Image: Envato Elements

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17 Innovative Tourism Business Ideas and Trends for 2024

In This Article: Trends to Inspire Your Tours and Activities

Gig-Tripping, Bleisure, and Skip-Gen Travel: From eco-conscious adventures to immersive culinary experiences, what are some of the top travel business ideas likely to appeal to travelers in 2024? And how can tour businesses capitalize on them?

It’s that time of year again; when we take a deep dive into the research into travel and tourism trends for the year ahead so you don’t have to. As well as scouring the travel press, talking to our partners, customers and contacts, and racking our own brains here at Rezgo, we’ve picked highlights from several influential research reports into tourism business trends for 2024. 

Even if you’re getting into the tour operator industry, there’s a lot of reasons to be optimistic. Read on to learn the tourism trends you can use to start your tour business in 2024.

Reasons to be cheerful about tourism in 2024

These findings were backed up by UNWTO’s latest Tourism Confidence Index survey of travel professionals. It found that “67% of tourism professionals indicating better or much better prospects for 2024 compared to 2023.”

According to the UNTWO, reasons to be optimistic in 2024 include:

• An uptick in the reopening of several source markets and destinations in Asia
• An increase in Chinese outbound and inbound tourism
• More travel to and around the Middle East and Africa through a unified tourist visa implemented by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries
• Strong outlook for travel to Europe, for example for the Paris Summer Olympics, and from the United States, backed by a strong US dollar

On the flip side, according to UNWTO findings, “Persisting inflation, high interest rates, volatile oil prices and disruptions to trade can continue to impact transport and accommodations costs in 2024.” In addition, if you have been having difficulties finding staff, you’re not alone. Many tourism businesses continue to face challenges filling vacancies to help them meet the steadily rising demand from travellers.

Overall though, 2024 promises an exciting array of tourism trends that cater to diverse interests and preferences. Let’s take a look at travel and tourism business ideas for 2024, with a focus on ideas for tours, events, activities and attractions that your travel business could use to attract new and existing customers alike. 

Trending tourism business ideas for 2024

1. sustainable tourism and ecotours.

According to the UNWTO report, many travellers will consider “sustainable practices and adaptability” when making their travel plans in 2024. They are not only interested in booking with tour companies that do business in a sustainable way, but they also want to travel in an eco-friendly way, seek out eco-friendly places to stay and book activities and tours with a sustainability element. This is backed up by Arival’s “ The 2024 U.S. Tour Taker ,” which found that nature tours and other “ecotours” are in high demand from US travelers in particular. 

Booking.com’s trends report for 2024 prompted the online travel marketplace to predict that ”the world of travel is poised for a sustainable makeover,” as travellers seek out eco-friendly places to stay and activities and locations with a sustainability element. TravelPulse reported that many travelers increasingly look to travel off season and seek out less well-known destinations to do their bit to try to decrease overtourism.

So-called “ecotours” let tourists enjoy a vacation while also learning about environmental and sustainability issues in a particular location. Some enable people to do something tangible to help, such as volunteering to plant trees or help to restore habitats. Many travelers these days also seek out “small footprint” or socially-responsible travel. This may not be an ecotour as such; it could just mean they favor tour companies that take steps to minimize the impact of their tours or incorporate a social responsibility element. Booking.com’s  Sustainable Travel Report 2023 found that 76 percent of travelers want to travel more sustainably in 2024. 

2. Train travel

From the “Flying Scotsman” to the “Orient Express,” there are few more romantic ways to travel than by train. However, train travel continues to overlap with other trends in our list, as it becomes more popular as a way to travel more sustainably by reducing car and air travel, traveling slower (unless we’re talking train travel in Japan) and for longer, as well as traveling to more countries on the same trip. Train travel as both a means to travel and see more of a destination continues to increase in popularity. Euromonitor International found that in 2024, “the fastest growing travel category worldwide is rail transport at 35.6 percent over 2023-2024.”

Train travel can also offer scenic views, comfortable travel with spacious seats, sleeping accommodations for longer or overnight trips, the opportunity to socialize with other travelers, and convenient access to city centers. Again overlapping with other trends, train travel also offers more immersive travel experiences and lets travelers see more of a country while mixing with locals. Many countries and rail companies, especially in Europe, offer passes that let travelers visit multiple places in one trip without leaving the ground.

3. Food and drink experiences 

Many of the reports we looked at highlighted culinary experiences as a trend for 2024. After all, who doesn’t like a good meal or drinks with friends? Many travellers want to combine their love of food with their love of travel. Food tours allow travellers to savour the authentic flavours of a destination while discovering, and literally getting a taste for, its cultural heritage. Activities such as cooking classes let travelers enjoy an even more immersive culinary experience. 

While winery tours have long been a favourite travel activity for wine lovers, an explosion of craft beer, vodka, gin and other drink producers provides a multitude of other opportunities for drink-related tours activities. They can cater as much to enthusiasts looking to indulge in the finer things in life, as true connoisseurs. Booking.com found that 78 percent of travellers want to experience new foods, and half go to the length of organizing trips around specific restaurants or dishes, including iconic dishes of particular destinations. And keep an eye on “wild-feasting”—a new trend where you not only eat locally-grown ingredients but forage for, and even cook, them in the wild.

4. Sports tourism

Sport is a passion for many people around the world, and travelers often like to combine their love of a particular sport or sports team with their passion for travel. In 2024, Europe hosts the Paris Summer Olympics and the soccer UEFA Euro 2024, while soccer lovers often travel to see their favourite team in England, Spain, Germany and the top European leagues. However, even smaller teams get a look in. The Netflix show Welcome to Wrexham has put the small Welsh town on the map after Hollywood stars Rob Mcelhenney and Ryan Reynolds bought the local soccer team.

As well as events like the Olympics, there are also annual events that attract global interest, such as the Super Bowl, the Tour de France and Formula One, which also has a hit TV show, Formula 1: Drive to Survive . A sporting, or other, event can provide a reason for people to visit a particular location, even if they don’t have tickets, to sample the atmosphere and explore the sights. 

5. Tours and experiences with locals

Immersing oneself in the local culture is made possible through tours or experiences led by knowledgeable locals. These insiders offer unique insights, hidden gems, and authentic encounters that enhance the overall travel experience. They help meet a growing demand for more immersive experiences that take travelers inside a location and culture and deepen their understanding of it. Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report  found that many travellers will prioritize experiences (85%), exploring the unknown, trying local food, and learning about the local culture.

Indigenous experiences are still a growing trend. Countries around the world, such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand, are making an increased effort to reverse past wrongs when it comes to treatment of Indigenous peoples, while also empowering Indigenous communities to take a lead in areas like travel and tourism. 

6. Transformational trips

A buzz phrase you heard a lot of in 2023 was “transformational retreat,” and 2024 looks likely to continue the trend. Booking.com’s 2024 travel trends report prompted them to label 2024 as a year that reinforced that “travel isn’t just an escape, but a catalyst for experiencing our best lives.”

A transformational trip is a travel experience designed around a specific activity, personal goal, or mental or physical health need. They can include retreats that cater to people who want to undergo a significant personal or spiritual transformation, or at least get away from it all in order to return refreshed. Retreats and activities include meditation, yoga, therapy, workshops, and other experiential practices. Most promote self-awareness, personal growth, and positive change, typically taking place in a secluded and peaceful setting and led by experienced facilitators or coaches. 

Wellness vacations have been a growing tourism business trend for some time, with demand accelerated by the pandemic. Tours that offer people the chance to pamper themselves and generally recalibrate are likely to be extremely popular for the foreseeable future.

7. Quiet travel

Not everyone is looking for a transformational outcome from their vacation; many simply want to unwind and enjoy some quality “me time.” Continuing the 2023 trend, many people still want to unplug and undertake a “digital detox.” They could be seeking respite from “doom scrolling” through social media and news feeds on their digital devices, or they just want a break from the glowing screens so prevalent in their day-to-day. 

Trips that encourage travelers to leave their devices at home will be popular, whether to a wellness retreats that bans or discourages digital devices, or an out-of-the-way destination that makes electronic communication extremely difficult. As well as digital detoxing, an example of a trend that is still going strong is forest bathing. This involves becoming immersed in nature to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can be as simple as going for a long walk through a forest, or sitting by a lake and taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural surroundings. Research has shown that forest bathing can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and even boost the immune system and reduce blood pressure and heart rate.

8. Skip-gen travel

Deloitte’s “2024 travel industry outlook” report found that the baby boomer generation is getting back into the swing of things when it comes to traveling. This could be a factor in the emergence of a trend towards “skip generation trips” or skip-gen travel. This is when grandparents take their grandkids on vacation as a way for these two generations to bond and create some memories. Boomers can have more disposable income and more time, and parents with kids that can travel in this way appreciate the chance to travel on their own or just enjoy a break at home. All-inclusive resorts and other places with lots of activities for different generations are popular skip generation trips.

9. Solo travel 

Of course, not everyone has a posse to travel with or wants to travel with others. Solo travel continues to be very popular and has moved from a niche to a mainstream market. A Skyscanner report found that 40 per cent wanted to travel solo for mental health wellness reasons, while singles and divorcees ranked highly for being ready to take a solo trip. The report concludes: “There is no longer any stigma attached to taking a trip on your own, and many tour companies cater specifically to this market.”

Arival ’s 2024 U.S. Tour Taker report found that the preference for independent travel increases with age, with 38 percent of people over 55 preferring to go it alone, compared with 26 percent of the 18-34 group. ​This indicates that older, more experienced travelers, who are often more affluent, prefer small group and independent travel. ​Women travelling on their own or with other women also continues to be a growing trend, with a number of tour operators dedicated to women-only trips.

10. Frontier travel

While it may sound like something out of the script for the TV show Westworld , frontier travel is a new travel trend for 2024 that takes travelers into wilder, more unusual destinations off the beaten track. This could mean grand adventures like following in the footsteps of great explorers across the Drake Passage to Antarctica or up Everest. Or it could mean taking a guided group trip to hike to and camp in a remote location or journey down a river by kayak or canoe.

These trips need a certain element of adventure and excitement, challenging travelers to get out of their comfort zone. This ties in with the transformational trip trend above, as people seek experiences that they will not only remember forever, but that could change them forever.

11. Hush trips, workcations, and micro-cations

In our 2023 report we highlighted the trend toward “hush trips” (when remote workers take a workcation without telling their boss) and workcations, when people travel abroad with the intention of combining a vacation with work. This kind of travel continues to be popular, and accommodation providers—from hotels to Airbnb apartments—often boast of dedicated work areas and other facilities for remote workers.

Many such trips are “micro-cations,” short trips often taken close to home, often at the last minute. The micro-cation trend has continued to grow for the last few years, as people look for quick, convenient, and often budget-friendly getaways that don’t require a lot of planning. When you combine the acceptance of remote working among many more employers with a large number of people who left the office behind and didn’t miss it for a second, you have an opportunity to create workcation and hush trip experiences for digital nomads and remote workers.  

12. Traveling for “bleisure”

The tourism industry and travel press do love a good old portmanteau to describe the latest trend. Hot on the heels of workcations, the related trend of “bleisure” shows no sign of letting up. Bleisure is a name coined to describe the trend of business travellers tacking on some leisure time to the end of business trips or just taking their family along with them. Where a workcation is often a longer trip designed around work, the growth of bleisure trips reflects the fact that as business travel bounces back, people still want as much vacation time as they can get. 

Deloitte’s “2024 travel industry outlook” report found that corporations are more concerned with costs than COVID now, but “trips to build client relationships and support team collaboration remain key to business success.” In fact, the report found that “US corporate travel spend is still likely to finally pass the pre-pandemic line within the next year.”

13. Set-jetting

If you’ve ever wanted to visit the set of your favourite movie or TV show, you’re not alone. A top travel trend for 2023 that is continuing in 2024 is “set-jetting,” when travelers visit destinations primarily because they were featured in a popular movie, TV show, or book. According to research, 39 percent of travelers have booked trips to places featured on shows or movies ( Expedia ). While people have long been drawn to iconic movie locations, perhaps the earliest example of mass set-jetting was New Zealand’s tourism industry getting a huge boost after the country played a leading role in the “Lord of The Rings” movies. Fans of the “Outlander” books and TV series have also been making pilgrimages to Scotland to see the country that provides the backdrop for their favourite show.

People don’t just want to visit the actual physical set and filming location, but also just the cities or countries featured in a particular production. Popular shows where the location is as much the star of the show as the actors, such as “The Crown” (England,) “Emily in Paris” (Paris,) and “The White Lotus” (Sicily), have been credited with triggering a surge in demand for particular locations and experiences relating to the shows, such as a themed tour. And tour companies like Black Tomato have jumped on the trend to offer set-jetting itineraries .

14. Destination dupes

The economic upheaval we saw through 2022 and 2023 looks set to continue through 2024, . Inflation and cost of living rises mean while the desire to travel is still strong, many travelers will still have at least one eye on their budget. This has led to a new trend called destination dupes,  when people seek out trips to locations that offer similar experiences to well-known or preferred locations, but that are more cost-effective. 

Hotel giant Marriott commissioned a survey of over 14,000 travellers , and over 25 percent said they were choosing destination dupes in 2024. Examples of dupes include someone who lives in the US choosing a Canadian lake resort over an Italian Lakes destination. Here’s a good guide to popular holiday swaps for 2024 .

15. Coolcations

In the wake of rising temperatures and an increase in the number and intensity of wildfires in parts of North America, Europe and around the world, keeping cool is likely to be top of mind for many travelers in 2024—even among those who typically seek out the sun for their vacation.

Enter the “colocation.” Marriott’s survey found that over half of respondents would be considering climate change when planning their trips. Fifty-six percent said they were more interested in cooling down than baking in the sun. This makes areas like northern Europe a popular destination dupe as people look for similar attractions, such as culture, scenery, etc., to the hotter locations they might have chosen in the past but with a cooler climate.

16. Gig tripping

Just as the trend of people taking trips to sports and other events has grown, so too has this travel trend that is music to the ears of the travel industry. For example “swifties” from around the world are flocking to Taylor Swift concerts abroad, especially if tickets in their home country, especially the US, are hard to come by. CN Traveler called this the Swift Effect, as people travel to one-off gigs to see their favourite performer, as well as established (Glastonbury in the UK and Coachella in the US) and new (Untold in Romania) multi-day music festivals.

17. Sleep retreats

As we highlighted in our 2023 trends, everyone likes a good night’s sleep, especially on vacation, and the travel industry is waking up to the opportunities offered by a rise in “sleep tourism.” This trend continues to grow. Some travelers simply want a relaxing holiday with a comfortable bed and in an environment conducive to getting plenty of rest. For example, the Park Hyatt New York offers a stay in their  One Bedroom Sleep Suite by Bryte . Others are taking advantage of a growth in technology geared towards helping people get their eight hours a night, and are booking “sleep retreats.” Swedish bed brand Hastens opened a branded Sleep Spa , and the  HOTEL de LËN offers guests a “regenerative sleep experience.” Good night, sleep well.  

These are just a selection of travel business trends for 2024 that could open up new opportunities for your tour business. For example, we haven’t even touched on how technology is changing the travel industry. And don’t forget traditional travel experiences, or in-destination activities. The Arival report highlighted that sightseeing tours, “hop-on, hop-off” experiences, and other tried and tested travel experiences and ways of seeing the sights are still going strong.

How to take advantage of innovative tourism business ideas

In an ever-evolving landscape of travel and tourism, the trends for 2024 reflect a desire for authenticity, sustainability, and immersive experiences. From eco-conscious adventures to culinary escapades and everything in between, travelers are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the world in new and exciting ways. Embracing these trends promises to enrich the travel experience and create lasting memories for adventurers of all kinds.

The key to taking advantage of these innovative tourism business ideas and other tourism industry trends is to always be thinking of your next profitable business opportunity. Here are a few ways to keep on top of what’s new and interesting in the travel business:

Maintain an ideas file

Include those “out there” trends that seem absurd the first time you hear them. Think about some recent innovations that would have been dismissed with a laugh not that long ago: Self-driving cars, passenger space travel, drone deliveries… Even that Holy Grail of futuristic inventions, the personal jetpack, is getting closer to reality. All but the most outlandish trends are worth tracking in case there’s a germ of an idea for a new business opportunity in there.

Listen to your audience

Hang out in online travel discussion forums, on social media, and in other places where travelers gather to swap notes and ideas or express needs and dreams. You might uncover a new business idea no-one else has come across yet.

Follow your competitors

Monitor what your direct competitors and others in the tourism business are up to. Subscribe to every industry newsletter you can, including those of your competitors, to keep up with emerging trends and help with your business idea generation.

Solicit customer feedback

Be proactive in asking your customers for feedback. Don’t just ask them what they liked and didn’t like about their experience with your company; ask them if there’s anything they would like to do that they currently can’t. 

Invest in the right booking system

It goes without saying that every tour operator should offer online booking and take a mobile-first approach. Not doing both of those things makes taking advantage of the above trends very difficult. The customer experience starts the moment they enter your website. Online booking enables them to easily browse, book, and pay for tours anytime and from is anywhere. Learn more about how Rezgo booking software is  tailor-made for adventure companies.

At Rezgo, we always have our ear to the ground when it comes to the latest tourism trends and business opportunities. The Rezgo booking system is a comprehensive platform that enables you to become a more

Written By | Rob Mathison

Rob Mathison is a Vancouver-based freelance writer focusing on tech, travel, digital marketing, and education. He is a co-author of The Complete Resident’s Guide to Vancouver.

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40 Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas

From providing lodging to leading guided tours, the opportunities for success in the travel and hospitality industry are numerous. Your potential tourism business can take many different forms as the commodities of traveling are multifaceted and broad.

Whatever your motivation for wanting to begin your entrepreneurial journey T ravel business ideas and Hospitality business ideas are a great place to start!

Best Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas for 2020

1. airbnb business.

An Airbnb business supplies guests with a place to stay within a person’s home. Many travelers are looking for lodging which is a little more personal and unique. Airbnb rentals offer a home feel, versus that of a hotel or motel. Guests may stay as short as one or two days or extended stays up to two weeks.

An Airbnb is a great way to add some extra income, especially if you have unused rooms or lots of space in your house. You will have guests staying in your home, so you should be comfortable talking and interacting with guests. Some homeowners, who travel often, will also rent out their homes when they are out of town. This allows them to receive income and have someone watching their home when they’re not around.

Learn how to start an Airbnb business .

2. AIRPORT SHUTTLE BUSINESS

Airport shuttles transport people between the airport and either their homes, hotels, or where they parked their cars. Airport shuttles are used by business travelers, groups, families, and solo riders. The driver picks travelers up at a predetermined location and drops them off wherever necessary; typically with no more than two stops on each route. Vehicles are generally spacious, with ample room for riders to store their luggage.

Individuals possessing the drive to start their own travel business and the inclination to interact with people would be best suited for this business endeavor. Since much time is spent on the road, the entrepreneur that enjoys driving would be the ideal candidate.

Learn how to start an airport shuttle business .

3. AMUSEMENT PARK

Amusement, or theme, parks feature rides, games, and entertainment options in an outdoor or indoor venue. Customers typically pay a single entry fee for access to the entire park. The successful amusement park model focuses on the customer's entire experience, offering a wide range of services and entertainment options including parking, trams, restaurant options, water parks, roller coasters, live animal attractions, stage shows, arcade games, attractive interactive landscaping, and family-friendly fun. The larger the property you own, the more entertainment choices you are able to offer your customers.

You must be a highly motivated individual ready to sink a large initial investment into the concept, design, and implementation of your amusement park. You may need extensive knowledge in the operation of rides, restaurant and guest services, landscaping design, business practices, and have significant leadership skills.

Learn how to start an amusement park .

4. BED AND BREAKFAST

A bed and breakfast business offers travelers an alternative to hotels and motels, by combining sleeping quarters with a full breakfast. Most bed and breakfasts also promise more unique, intimate settings than other lodging options.

Anyone who enjoys hosting others may be well-suited for owning a bed and breakfast business because guests come to B&Bs for a level of hospitality that hotels and motels don’t provide. Business owners should like talking with people, cooking meals, and making guests feel comfortable.

Learn how to start a bed and breakfast .

5. BIKE RENTAL BUSINESS

Bike rental businesses give customers—who are often, but not necessarily, tourists—bicycles for a short period. Bikes are generally rented for a few hours to recreationally explore the locality. But the customer base might also consist of college students on campus or others who rent for practical reasons. Your business might be a freestanding shop, part of a bike sales and service operation or associated with a hotel or other hospitality business.

Bike rental business owners should be mechanically adept since customers can be hard on bikes. Also, since bikes are often rented to explore the immediate area, you should be highly familiar with your home base and able to suggest tourist attractions. You should have an engaging personality and be motivated to deliver exceptional customer service.

Learn how to start a bike rental business .

6. BIKE TOUR COMPANY

Do you love exploring your home town or popular tourist destinations on your bike? Does it really make your day when you bring a friend along to see the sights? Operating a bike tour company may be right up your alley. Whether you are simply renting bicycles and maps for patrons to use on their own or providing week-long personalized guided tours that include meals and lodging, this can be a rewarding travel business.

If you are going to run a one-man show, you will need to be physically fit, have fantastic people skills, and enjoy managing the many facets of your business. If you are operating a large tourist attraction, the right owner will have a good background in business management with a focus on the service industry.

Learn how to start a bike tour company .

7. BOUTIQUE TOUR BUSINESS

This travel business idea differs from a traditional tour guide service in that the focus is not on the popular tourist destinations. Instead, it focuses more on unique and special experiences. Both local residents and tourists enjoy these types of tours/parties.

People like to do things that feel more authentic and consistent with what locals do versus just taking a sightseeing tour to see the major attractions. These can be very active experiences such as hiking, climbing, bungee-jumping, flying down a wire cable over the tree canopy, whitewater rafting and so much more. Many prefer such active experiences when compared to the traditional bus tours where tour guides describe things as the bus passes them by.

Learn how to start a boutique tour business .

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the  Top LLC Formation Services And, use our free tools to help start your business: Use our  Business Name Generator  for help brainstorming your new venture’s name Learn  how to form an LLC , one of the  best business structures  for travel businesses Use our free  business plan generator  to start planning your business today Get your unique logo with our free  Logo Maker  and start branding your business After finding your perfect idea learn how to  start a business

8. BUS TOUR BUSINESS

A bus tour business provides tours for tourists as well as locals. Tours of scenic and historical areas and other sites of interest are a valuable community service. Bus tours connect people with others for a shared experience. They also educate people about historical landmarks, local history, geography and other important aspects of your city and the surrounding area.

If you are looking to give people the opportunity to learn more about a locale while enjoying the company of others, a bus tour business is right for you. This is your chance to bring people closer together. Bus tours also enhance understanding and respect for cities, towns, landmarks and special sites. Bus tour customers gain a new appreciation for the area in which the tour is conducted.

Learn how to start a bus tour business .

9. CAMPGROUND

If you love the outdoors and some hard work, you could start a campground business. Whether you have land or are purchasing land, you could start enjoying the great outdoors and working for yourself as soon as you get everything set up. You'll provide a place for people who are passing through on their way to another destination and for those who want to enjoy some time connecting with nature. Campers use all sorts of shelters from tents to fully contained RVs.

Before you start a campground business, you'll need the knowledge and willingness it takes to do many things, including accounting, repairs, road maintenance, plumbing, electrical maintenance, and management. You may be able to farm some of these things out, but it is much more cost-effective to do these things yourself.

Learn how to start a campground .

10. CANOE & KAYAK RENTAL BUSINESS

Many people enjoy being on the water, but they either do not own a boat or want to go boating where they can't bring theirs. A canoe and kayak rental business lets people rent canoes and kayaks to take out on nearby waterways. Customers can take canoes out for as little as an hour or as long as a day or more.

Anyone who enjoys canoeing and kayaking may be well-suited to open a canoe and kayak rental business. Business owners also must be strong enough to move canoes and kayaks onshore.

Learn how to start a canoe & kayak rental business .

Find a Web Domain For Your Travel and Hospitality Business

Securing a web domain and creating a quality website is important for the overall success of a travel and hospitality business.

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Powered by godaddy.com, 11. car rental business.

Another one of many travel business ideas is a car rental company. A car rental business rents vehicles at affordable daily and weekly prices. All sorts of different parties are interested in car rentals. Common customers include business and leisure travelers, those whose vehicles are out of commission and businesses.

This business is ideal for someone who has a sincere interest in automobiles, automobile maintenance, and the driving experience.

Learn how to start a car rental business .

12. CORPORATE RETREAT CENTER

Many companies take employees on retreats for training, development, and team-building experiences. Corporate retreat center businesses offer a place for holding these company-sponsored retreats and frequently help companies plan their retreats.

Anyone who is organized and has strong interpersonal skills may enjoy running a corporate retreat center business. Hosting retreats requires balancing many different tasks, and there’s a constant conversation between the retreat center and the company sponsoring the retreat.

Learn how to start a corporate retreat center .

13. CRUISE LINE

A cruise line has one or several large boats designed to accommodate numerous fun-seeking individuals. This business is centered on providing guests with a good time. Cruise liners are a place for relaxation, socialization, and romance. Cruises are in-demand as they provide people with a fun and relaxing means of vacationing. Cruise lines offer all sorts of social activities on and off the ship. This business is a fantastic way to bring people closer to one another, bolster social ties, and provide people with a sense of belonging.

This is the ideal business or someone who is looking for a way to bring people together for a fun, rewarding and memorable experience. If you are a hospitable individual and enjoy providing people with a good time, you should consider starting a cruise line business. Furthermore, if you enjoy life on the water, good food and entertainment, a cruise ship business is worth considering.

Learn how to start a cruise line .

14. DAY SPA

Day spas provide a relaxing atmosphere and a variety of treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Some of the most common services offered by smaller day spas are facials, massages, manicures and pedicures, waxing, electrolysis, and aromatherapy. Larger day spas with more complex facilities are able to offer additional options such as body wraps, mud baths, or hydrotherapy treatments.

This hospitality business is ideal for those who enjoy relating with people on a personal level to provide services that reduce stress, enhance beauty, and improve health.

Learn how to start a day spa .

15. ECOTOUR BUSINESS

Ecotourism is small scale, low impact tourism that offers travelers an opportunity to learn about the local flora, fauna, and culture. Unlike your standard tour guide service, the focus of ecotourism is to educate guests on how they can positively impact the environment and community they’re visiting. Tourists are able to immerse themselves in the culture and habitat, gaining an understanding of the positive impact each can have on the other. Ecological sustainability and responsibility are the heart of this educating and rewarding experience.

As many consumers ponder the environmental impact humans have had on our environment, there are many who have taken it upon themselves to get out and do something about it. They’ve made it their life’s mission to make positive strides, educating others along the way. Entrepreneurs who have made this their lives’ work and who truly enjoy igniting this passion in others would be best suited for this travel business venture.

Learn how to start an ecotour business .

16. FISHING CHARTER BUSINESS

Many people enjoy fishing, but few people have boats, tackle, and knowledge to go fishing far from shore. Fishing charter businesses take people on fishing trips that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to experience. These trips may range from going into swamps to venturing far offshore. Customers are usually allowed to keep any fish that they catch (assuming the fish are legal to keep).

Anyone who is passionate about fishing and enjoys sharing that passion with other people may be well-suited for running a fishing charter business. Customers expect fishing charter captains to be knowledgeable about and have a love for fishing, and sharing that knowledge and love helps ensure customers have a great time.

Learn how to start a fishing charter business .

17. GLAMPING BUSINESS

A glamping business is next on our comprehensive list of travel startup ideas. Glamping, or "glamorous camping," has taken England by storm and is quickly becoming popular within the United States. Although there aren’t any official statistics for glamping in the U.S., industry insiders have seen a big increase in demand recently. For entrepreneurs, this demand represents an exciting opportunity.

People who enjoy connecting with others and being outdoors may enjoy running a glamping business. Interpersonal skills are necessary because much of the business involves making guests feel welcome. A passion for the outdoors is helpful, for glamping is largely about connecting with nature.

Learn how to start a glamping business .

18. GOLF COURSE

Golf courses provide these people with a place to play the sport. Most courses are 9 or 18 holes, and they may have other amenities, such as clubhouses and pro shops. Anyone who is well-versed in a variety of aspects of business and enjoys golfing themselves may be qualified to run a golf course.

It’s important to have a broad business background because golf courses are multi-faceted businesses. Running one might include course maintenance, employee management, restaurant service, event hosting, and investment opportunities.

Learn how to start a golf course .

19. HAUNTED ATTRACTION

A haunted thrill park is any space designed to entice customers by offering a scary or thrilling experience. Americans spend about $7 billion on Halloween, and $300 million on haunted houses. Haunted thrill parks may be located in makeshift, temporary houses, corn mazes, or even old prisons or asylums. Typically, workers will dress up in costumes and pop out at customers to give them a fright. Props such as fake chainsaws or straight jackets are often used alongside fog machines and soundtracks of creepy noises.

There is an art to scaring people while keeping them safe, so an entrepreneur will have to coordinate the right scenes while ensuring workers understand how to handle the guests. Those who already have a love of haunted houses likely understand what's currently out there, and what people would like to see in the future.

Learn how to start a haunted attraction .

20. HELICOPTER TOUR BUSINESS

A helicopter tour business takes customers on short flights so they can view their city from a bird's-eye view. This is typically marketed as a more expensive service for a more adventurous clientele, and it adds a touch of excitement to any community.

This business is ideal for those already licensed to fly a helicopter, as there is a significant investment of time and money required to acquire a license. As such, it typically makes a good business for retired military personnel. Aside from a knowledge of helicopters, one of the best qualities for this business is to be a “people person,” as you must be able to charm customers before, during, and after the flight.

Learn how to start a helicopter tour business .

Start a Travel and Hospitality Business In Your State

21. hotel business.

A hotel can be any commercial building that charges money to travelers who need a room to stay. This can be anything from a standard multi-unit building to luxury stand-alone villas. As airline prices drop and the economy improves, corporate and personal travel continues to increase. The hotel industry generated just under $200 billion in revenue in 2016.

This startup idea is good for someone who enjoys the hospitality business. Those who run hotels have to be adept at catering to a number of different needs, so an owner will need to be flexible when it comes to how they respond to different travelers and consistent when it comes to delivering unparalleled customer service. From business travelers to young families, each guest will have their own priorities when it comes to where they stay.

Learn how to start a hotel business .

22. HOUSE-SITTING BUSINESS

House sitting is a service offered to customers who are out of town or otherwise away from the home. House sitters may look after pets, plants, or just the home itself. House sitters help the community in a number of ways. They can ward off criminals by simply being in the house, and they keep cats and dogs from having to be put into kennels.

This business is good for those who want to maintain people’s homes while they’re away. Ideally, house sitters should be animal lovers who know how to take care of a variety of different types of dogs and cats.

Learn how to start a house-sitting business .

23. KENNEL BUSINESS

Many dog owners, for a variety of reasons, don’t bring their dogs with them on trips. A kennel business gives dog owners a safe place to leave their dogs while they’re away. At a kennel, dogs have a safe place to rest, are fed and get exercise.

Anyone who loves dogs may be well-suited for owning a kennel business, as most of the work involves taking care of dogs. Owners often have to play with dogs, and they sometimes need to physically move stubborn pooches. Therefore, owners should be in decent physical condition.

Learn how to start a kennel business .

Boat owners need a place to keep their boats, both during the boating season and the off-season. While some boats can be kept on a trailer and launched, other vessels cannot -- and even boaters who have trailerable vessels often don’t want to have to launch and take out their boat every time they go out on the water.

A marina business offers boaters a place to keep their boats, docking or mooring them in the water during the boating season, and storing them on land for the rest of the year.

Learn how to start a marina .

25. PARTY BUS BUSINESS

One more of several popular travel business ideas is a party bus business. A party bus business will transport people for major events, so they don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting from place to place. While people on the bus are generally invited to consume alcohol (if they're of age), party buses don’t necessarily have to offer adult beverages as a part of their business model.

This business is excellent for someone who understands both the large and small aspects of major events. Clients want to be able to relax and feel as though they're taken care of, so they need someone who is confident in making decisions quickly and being able to think on the fly in the face of potential hiccups or even outright emergencies.

Learn how to start a party bus business .

26. PET-SITTING BUSINESS

Pet sitting businesses offer pet owners a variety of animal care services, including exercising their pets while they are at work. They also provide an affordable alternative to boarding pets at a kennel during vacations or business trips. Being able to remain in their own home environment can reduce separation anxiety for both pets and their owners.

This is a great business idea for animal lovers who enjoy walking and staying active. It’s ideal for people who prefer lower stress levels, since spending time with pets has been shown to reduce stress. Those who are compassionate and responsible, yet prefer to work alone and be their own bosses as well as make their own schedules thrive in this type of business.

Learn how to start a pet-sitting business .

27. SCOOTER RENTAL BUSINESS

A scooter rental business offers customers a fun and affordable option for short-term transportation. For most, scooters can be rented with hourly, half-day, and whole day rates.

If you have experience in retail sales or product rentals, knowledge of small engines, a strong work ethic, and a business mind, a scooter rental business could be your ticket to financial independence. Especially if you have a background in scooters and motorcycles—either as a rider, enthusiast, or from working in a motorbike retail business—your expertise could set you apart from the competition.

Learn how to start a scooter rental business .

28. SCUBA DIVING BUSINESS

Scuba diving affords an unparalleled experience with the underwater world. However, safe diving requires training, equipment, and often a guide. Scuba diving businesses provide divers with the training, equipment, and local knowledge they need to have a fun and safe time underwater.

While scuba diving businesses can generate sizable profits, most business owners don’t get into this type of work solely for the financial return on investment. Instead, they’re passionate scuba divers themselves and are drawn to the scuba lifestyle. They like the idea of making money doing a sport they love.

Learn how to start a scuba diving business .

29. SKI RESORT

Ski resorts are one of the main places people go for wintertime fun. Resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, equipment rentals and lessons. Many resorts also have concessions, a restaurant, a bar, and other amenities.

Someone with a diverse skillset and background in business may be well-suited for running a ski resort business. The multi-faceted nature of ski resorts requires knowledge of multiple aspects of running a business. For instance, running a ski resort business might include equipment maintenance, snowmaking decisions, concession management, and program creation.

Learn how to start a ski resort .

30. SKYDIVING BUSINESS

Customers of skydiving businesses receive access to the complete experience, either in tandem with an experienced jumper or solo. The entertainment package includes the airplane ride, all equipment, landing site—also known as the dropzone or DZ—and the leadership/coaching of a jumpmaster. Other products or services might also be offered through the business, from parachute training before the jump to photography or video production of the jump.

Most people who would consider starting such a business are experienced jumpers, but that’s not mandatory. You should, at a minimum, feel comfortable convincing partners or investors and officials of the wisdom of your plans and your skydiving business’ value to the community.

Learn how to start a skydiving business .

31. SNORKELING BUSINESS

A snorkeling business will typically sell or rent out various safety gear and snorkeling equipment to water-lovers of all ages. These travel businesses can also offer tours to their customers in addition to or instead of a physical store location.

Owners should ideally have an inherent love of the water, so they can introduce their passion for exploration to new generations of snorkelers. They should also enjoy working with people who may not know very much about how to use the equipment.

Learn how to start a snorkeling business .

32. SOUVENIR SHOP

As the owner of a souvenir shop, you’ll stock your retail store, cart or kiosk with an inventory of interest to tourists. Your offerings will reflect the demographics and socioeconomic strata of the market. For instance, if you’re at a vacation destination that draws young families, you might stock novelty trinkets, toys, t-shirts, candy, and gum. However, if you’ll attract more sophisticated travelers, you might sell pricier jewelry with a local slant -- ie, designed with stones or gems found in the region.

You can succeed if you know your market. You must be able to match the inventory with the needs of vacationers and at an affordable price point.

Learn how to start a souvenir shop .

33. SUMMER CAMP

Successful summer camp business owners respond to the needs of their customers and communities by developing curriculum and activities that focus on their specific interests, goals, and objectives. Traditional summer camps offer outdoor activities such as hiking, building campfires, and canoeing. Sleep-away camps offer food and lodging as well as trained supervision during physical and educational activities. Day camps do not include lodging and offer more specialized learning activities such as computer science, performing arts and music. Today, there are summer camp programs available for nearly every imaginable purpose, interest and need.

This business is a good choice for people who love teaching but prefer a beautiful natural setting to a formal classroom. High-energy individuals thrive on the combination of physical and mental activity this type of business provides. Creative people welcome the challenge of providing fun, interesting, and engaging songs, games, and educational activities for campers. Those who enjoy working with and enriching the lives of children and families experience a high level of job satisfaction within this industry.

Learn how to start a summer camp .

34. SURFING SCHOOL

Running a surf school and teaching surfing classes is a lifestyle with a dedication to the ocean water. It has the requirement to live on the coast of a country. The best places in America are the west coast of California and the islands of Hawaii. You may also find some decent surfing in other parts of the world such as Australia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and even in exotic places like Fiji and the beach areas of Sanya, China. No matter where you decide is best, you need to love the ocean water, work in a nice surfing spot, and want to teach people how to surf.

Surfers are people who enjoy the surfing lifestyle. Every day is a day at the beach when the waves are good. Surfers who want to teach others are even more special because they need to have patience when being an instructor for first-time learners. The best surfers enjoy daily surfing and catching good waves for them is a spiritual experience.

Learn how to start a surfing school .

35. TOUR COMPANY

Tour guide services are most often offered in cities large, world-famous cities and cities that have rich historical backgrounds. Guests can be taken on a tour by foot or by vehicle, depending upon the distance that will be covered during the tour.

The self-motivator with a thirst for knowledge who enjoys sharing what they’ve learned with others would do best owning a tour guide business.

Learn how to start a tour company .

Learn more about starting a business by visting the  U.S. Small Business Administration .

36. TRAVEL AGENCY

Most travel agencies earn revenue through commissions. Consumers often choose agencies because they help cut down on time needed to research various locations and book accommodations. A popular trend in the industry is online agencies, which operate mostly or exclusively online.

This business idea is perfect for individuals who are passionate about travel, love learning about and visiting new places, and are very detail-oriented. Travel agency owners have very flexible hours but usually only after they have an established book of clients.

Learn how to start a travel agency .

37. TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS

A travel photographer uses their camera to provide high-quality images to a variety of clients that may include websites, travel blogs, print magazines, television ads, and framed prints for sale. You will need to travel extensively to a variety of locations to deliver the landscapes, hotel rooms, and recreational shots that your clients are looking for. You'll work hard to develop a variety of clients who work with you to determine where your next shoot should be while your self-promotion and marketing will reach out to new clients.

A successful travel photographer will have extensive knowledge of how to use their camera to get the highest definition images containing dramatic landscapes. They will need to enjoy living on the road, hiking, and exploring distant locales to get the perfect shot. They should be sociable and able to toot their own horn in order to develop new clients and customers.

Learn how to start a travel photography business .

38. WALKING TOUR BUSINESS

Next on our list of travel business ideas is a walking tour business. Tourists are constantly in search of hidden gems and insider knowledge about their destination, which is what walking tour businesses provide. These travel businesses take tourists on guided explorations of an area, during which time tourists see both famous locations and lesser-known attractions while getting lots of local knowledge.

Most walking tours explore the area through a particular interest, and there are tours for all kinds of interests. For example, in New York City there are walking tour businesses that offer guided explorations of the city’s haunted locations, architecture and street art.

Learn how to start a walking tour business .

39. WATERPARK

Amusement parks are a popular vacation destination for families all over the world. Few things are more exhilarating than experiencing the rides, laughing and screaming as you make your way to the bottom. Couple that with water, and you have a family-friendly adventure for individuals of all ages.

Entrepreneurs with previous small business ownership or management would be best suited for this business venture. Innovators who enjoy a fast-paced atmosphere and are dedicated to reinvesting a portion of their profits can turn a small waterpark into a million-dollar enterprise in a matter of years.

Learn how to start a waterpark .

40. WINE TOUR BUSINESS

Wine tours educate people about grapes, fermentation, and flavor profiles. From varietals to harvesting techniques to the best way to taste the wine, tours are meant to be as informative as they are fun. These tours can help people appreciate all that goes into a single sip, and promote local businesses by exposing their product to more people.

This travel business is good for someone who already has a healthy interest in how vineyards work, and who enjoys teaching people in an entertaining way. Ideally, it should be far less about enjoying a good bottle of wine, and far more about being a good (and organized) educator.

Learn how to start a wine tour business .

Start a Travel and Hospitality Business in Your State

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In this article, we outline our top 40 business ideas with low startup costs to help you find a low-cost business idea that aligns with your interests and goals.

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If you’re looking to scratch the entrepreneurial itch without giving up your day job, you’re probably on the hunt for a side-hustle that aligns with your personal interests and your schedule. These 40 side-hustles satisfy a range of interests and can easily turn into full-time careers.

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12 Travel Business Ideas

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If there is one thing most people can agree on, it’s that traveling is one of life’s great pleasures. Exploring new cultures, visiting the world’s great wonders, spending days following your instincts and trying exotic foods — there’s a lot to love about discovering new places.

If you want to take your love of travel to the next level and start a business to serve your like-minded wanderlusters, you should consider these fun and profitable travel business ideas.

What is a travel business?

There are two overarching types of travel businesses worth considering. First, you could think about starting a business that provides services or goods for travelers — running a hotel, for example. The second option is to start a business that you can run from anywhere in the world while you yourself travel. In many cases, this type of business revolves around travel, such as working as a travel writer and writing stories about your latest adventures.

What makes a travel business idea a good one?

A good travel business should combine two things: reliability and excitement. When you run a travel business, your clients need to be able to trust you. They need to feel confident that the tour group you run is legitimate and will show them the best sites. Or that the blog you run about the best inns on the east coast actually gives honest reviews.

At the same time, you need to offer services or create content that excites your customers. Introduce them to sights off the beaten path. Help them unwind and relax while on their vacation. Find a way to create trust amongst your customer base while offering them an experience they can’t find anywhere else.

How much do you need?

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We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

12 travel business ideas for 2021

If you’re unsure of what type of travel business ideas could work for you, keep reading for some popular options. These ideas range widely and you should put your own creative spin on them. At the end of the day, think back to your passion for traveling. What services or products have made the most difference to you on past trips? What did you feel was missing? Can you find a way to make a living on the road while capitalizing on your skillset? Chances are, you have more ideas at the ready than you think.

1. Modernized bed and breakfast

B&Bs have been popular for decades — they outlive trends and are clearly here to stay. But why not step things up a notch and find a way to modernize the bed and breakfast experience a little bit? Make sure your rooms are outfitted with nice televisions so guests can enjoy a movie night in their cozy room. Offer unique culinary experiences. Decorate in a way that feels timeless but fresh at the same time. A bed and breakfast is a smaller operation than a hotel and is a great way to break into the hospitality business. If you need a little help funding your bed and breakfast, consider one of these financing options.

2. Off-the-beaten-path tour guide

Tour groups are a dime a dozen. But if you can offer a unique tour, you’ll be able to stand out from the competition. What do you love about your city? Maybe you can find the best coffee, chocolate, or salty treats at your local shops and restaurants. Organize a foodie tour of your town that highlights how your local delicacies are made. Of course, you’ll have to include tastes of all the local treats.

Or consider organizing a tour of some lesser-known sites. Surely there is a natural activity or historical site that tourists haven’t caught onto yet. If you can give your travelers a taste of local life or make them feel like they’ve uncovered something special, then your tour guide business will thrive. Maybe some locals will even join in on the fun.

3. Glamping

Here’s a fun fact for you: By 2025, experts estimate the glamping market in the United States alone is projected to reach a revenue of around $1 billion. It sounds like the great outdoors is getting a little fancier. What exactly is glamping? Glamorous camping.

Glamping combines nature with the comforts of home, and usually Champagne. That’s right, after a long day of hiking or river rafting, campers can return to decked-out campsites that offer spa treatments, wine and gourmet meals. The perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. If you can create a campsite that melds the best parts of nature with resort living, you’ll be in business.

4. Remote travel agent

Long gone are the days of travel agent offices. The truth is, thanks to the internet it’s easier than ever to plan a trip. Anyone with a computer can choose between hundreds of flights, hotels and restaurant reservations. The ease of access is great, but the time it takes to weed through those options might not be available to everyone. This is where a remote travel agent comes in.

You’ll work out of your own home which saves the customer costs on overhead expenses. For a more affordable price, remote travel agents can help busy travelers plan their next vacation from anywhere in the world. Help them book the best hotels, unique activities and provide them with all of their important travel bookings and documentation.

5. Travel consultant

Even though their job titles sound similar, a travel consultant is different than a travel agent. A travel consultant usually specializes in solving complex travel issues. For example, they may specialize in helping adoptive parents travel abroad to make the task of adopting a child from a foreign country run smoothly. Or they might assist businesses with complex assignments like learning how to cater to new cultures during business deals. Travel consultants generally focus less on tourism and more on helping iron out logistical issues.

6. Travel photographer

As a travel photographer, you’ll have plenty of options for making money off your passions for travel and photography. You can sell photos taken while traveling to newspapers, magazines and websites. Or you can sell your favorite shots in your own online shop. You could license your gorgeous photos of Paris or Peru to companies that create goods like calendars or art prints. Perhaps you want to help create stock photography for big companies like Getty Images. Point being, we live in a very visual world and there are plenty of options for starting a travel photography business.

7. Create a haunted attraction

Want a surefire way to make sure your hotel or guided tour drum up enough business? The solution is easy: Make it haunted. This may seem like a business better suited for Halloween time, but people are ready to get their scare on year-round. These haunted attractions do particularly well in historic locations like towns on the east coast where there are plenty of ghost stories to go around. Do some research and then let your imagination take care of the rest. You might want to load up on business insurance just in case your haunted attraction is too scary.

8. Teach cultural classes

It’s time to share your unique culture with the world. Offer fun classes for tourists that will make them feel like locals, whether that be a Creole cooking class or an art class that captures a local style of painting. Help tourists pick up a skill that they won’t learn anywhere else, like how to make an authentic cup of Turkish coffee or bake a truly Parisian croissant.

9. House or pet sitting

Sometimes a travel business does its best work when helping travelers look after what they left behind. House or pet sitting can be a great side hustle to take on if you’re looking for a little extra cash. Of course, you could always start a larger business like a kennel that takes care of beloved pets while their owners are jet-setting around the world. Some people are even willing to pay for plant hotels that keep their plants in tiptop shape until they return from vacation. Consider a travel business that will give your customers peace of mind while they are far from home.

10. Travel blogger

You’ve traveled the world and, boy, do you have some good stories to tell. So why don’t you then? By starting a travel blog, you can make money by sharing your experiences. You can offer up travel advice, share photos from your journey and review restaurants and hotels. Once your blog picks up some steam (aka gets a decent amount of pageviews and monthly visitors) you’ll be able to make money from ads hosted on your website, sign up for affiliate programs, or create sponsored content for brands. If this sounds like your ideal business, this guide can help you start a travel blog.

11. Ecotourism

Sustainability is all the rage right now and for good reason. It makes sense that those who value exploring the world want to keep it safe. Which is why ecotourism (also known as green tourism) is such a potentially profitable idea. Essentially, ecotourism allows travelers to learn about local culture and wildlife in a low-impact way.

Generally, these types of tours or services (like hotels) try to minimize the impact of traveling while giving tourists the education and tools to help positively impact the environment and community they visit. Many travelers are even willing to spend more on hotels if they are environmentally friendly. If you can find a way to show tourists a good time while helping them make a positive impact, you’re sure to have a popular business on your hands in no time.

LLC Formation

12. Home rentals

Do you have a gorgeous pool house just waiting to be turned into an oasis for weary travelers? Consider starting a home rental business. You can list any rooms in your house that are available to rent out (or even your entire house if you’re headed out of town yourself) on home rental websites like Airbnb or HomeAway. If you live in a popular area where hotels are particularly pricey, then you may be able to fetch a pretty penny by allowing customers to rent rooms in your home.

The best part is, you get to set your price. You only have to rent to people who can meet your price and who you think would be a good tenant (Hint: They need as many good reviews as you do). This can be an ideal business for bringing in extra money to help fund your next vacation. Just make sure that your town, apartment complex, or homeowners association allows you to rent out your property and that you’re following proper regulations.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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50 Travel & Tourism Business Ideas

Introduction

Wanderlust! The urge to travel, explore new places, and experience different cultures is deeply rooted in the human spirit.

As the world becomes more interconnected, the travel and tourism industry continues to thrive, presenting numerous opportunities for entrepreneurial minds.

In this blog post, we’ll embark on an exciting journey, exploring 50 creative business ideas that cater to the ever-growing demand for unique and memorable travel experiences.

Accommodation

1. tiny house rentals.

Offer a unique and eco-friendly accommodation experience by renting out tiny houses in scenic locations. Tiny houses are not only charming but also appeal to travelers seeking a minimalist and sustainable lifestyle.

2. Glamping Retreats

Combine the luxury of a hotel with the adventure of camping by setting up glamorous camping sites in picturesque natural settings. Provide luxurious tents, high-end amenities, and personalized services for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience.

3. Homestay Network

Create a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, allowing them to experience authentic cultural immersion by staying in a family’s home. This concept promotes cultural exchange and provides an affordable alternative to traditional accommodations.

4. Treehouse Resorts

Tap into the childlike wonder of tree-dwelling by constructing eco-friendly treehouse resorts. These unique accommodations offer guests a chance to reconnect with nature while enjoying modern amenities.

5. Houseboat Rentals

Capitalize on the growing trend of water-based accommodations by offering houseboat rentals in scenic waterways or coastal regions. Houseboats provide a unique way to explore destinations while enjoying the comforts of home.

Transportation

6. electric bike tours.

Offer eco-friendly and active tours of cities or natural landscapes using electric bikes. This concept appeals to travelers seeking sustainable and engaging ways to explore their destinations.

7. Luxury Coach Service

Provide a high-end transportation service for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Offer luxurious coaches with amenities like Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, and gourmet snacks for long-distance travel or city tours.

8. Vintage Car Rentals

Cater to the nostalgia and charm of classic automobiles by offering vintage car rentals. This unique transportation option can be a hit with travelers seeking a retro experience or those attending special events.

9. Private Aviation Services

For affluent travelers, offer private aviation services, such as charter flights, helicopter tours, or private jet rentals, providing a luxurious and convenient way to travel.

10. Campervan Rentals

Capitalize on the growing trend of road trips and van life by offering campervan rentals. These versatile vehicles allow travelers to explore destinations at their own pace while enjoying the freedom and convenience of a mobile home.

Tours and Activities

11. virtual reality tours.

Leverage the power of virtual reality (VR) technology to offer immersive tours of destinations, historical sites, or even outer space. This innovative concept appeals to tech-savvy travelers and those seeking unique experiences.

12. Food Truck Tours

Combine the love for food and exploration by organizing tours that guide participants through the local food truck scene, sampling diverse culinary offerings along the way.

13. Experiential Workshops

Offer hands-on workshops that teach travelers new skills or crafts, such as pottery, painting, dance, or cooking classes, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture while acquiring new knowledge.

14. Adventure Sports Tours

For thrill-seekers, organize tours that incorporate adventure sports like rock climbing, zip-lining, surfing, or skydiving, catering to travelers seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences.

15. Sustainable Ecotours

Promote responsible tourism by offering sustainable eco-tours that educate travelers about conservation efforts and sustainable practices while exploring natural wonders and wildlife habitats.

Food and Beverage

16. pop-up dining experiences.

Create unique and temporary dining experiences by setting up pop-up restaurants in unconventional locations, such as rooftops, abandoned buildings, or scenic outdoor spaces.

17. Craft Brewery Tours

Tap into the growing popularity of craft beer by offering guided tours of local breweries, providing insights into the brewing process and allowing visitors to sample unique flavors.

18. Farm-to-Table Dining

Collaborate with local farmers to create a farm-to-table dining experience, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients and promoting sustainable food practices.

19. Wine Tasting Tours

Organize tours that take visitors through local wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, providing an educational and indulgent experience for wine enthusiasts.

20. Street Food Tours

Guide travelers through the vibrant street food scene of a destination, introducing them to authentic local flavors and culinary traditions while exploring the city’s cultural fabric.

Retail and Souvenirs

21. artisan marketplace.

Curate a physical or online marketplace that showcases unique and handcrafted products from local artisans, providing travelers with authentic souvenirs and supporting local economies.

22. Sustainable Fashion Line

Tap into the growing demand for ethical and sustainable fashion by creating a clothing line using eco-friendly materials and promoting fair labor practices. Offer stylish and responsible travel apparel and accessories.

23. Personalized Photo Books

Offer a service that creates personalized photo books, allowing travelers to capture and preserve their journey’s memories in a beautifully curated keepsake.

24. Local Artisan Workshops

Organize workshops where travelers can learn from local artisans and create their own souvenirs, such as pottery, jewelry, or woodcarving, providing a hands-on experience and a unique keepsake.

25. Virtual Museum Tours

Leverage technology to offer virtual tours of museums, allowing travelers to explore exhibits and collections from anywhere in the world, catering to those seeking cultural experiences without the need for physical travel.

Technology and Apps

26. travel planning app.

Develop a comprehensive travel planning app that assists users in researching destinations, booking accommodations and activities, and creating personalized itineraries based on their preferences and interests.

27. Augmented Reality City Tours

Enhance the traditional city tour experience by incorporating augmented reality (AR) technology, overlaying historical information, interactive visuals, and storytelling elements onto the real-world environment.

28. Language Translation Earbuds

Offer innovative language translation earbuds that provide real-time translation, enabling travelers to communicate effectively and break down language barriers during their journeys.

29. Travel Insurance Comparison Platform

Create a user-friendly platform that compares and recommends the best travel insurance options based on specific trip details, destination, and traveler needs, ensuring peace of mind for adventurers.

30. Contactless Payments for Tourism

Develop a contactless payment solution specifically designed for the tourism industry, allowing travelers to make secure and convenient payments for attractions, tours, and services without the hassle of carrying cash or cards.

Wellness and Relaxation

31. yoga retreats.

Offer immersive yoga retreats in serene locations, combining physical and spiritual practices with healthy cuisine, meditation sessions, and access to natural surroundings for a holistic wellness experience.

32. Digital Detox Getaways

Create a sanctuary for travelers seeking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves by offering digital detox getaways in remote or nature-focused destinations.

33. Spa and Wellness Resorts

Establish luxurious spa and wellness resorts that provide a tranquil escape, offering various treatments, fitness programs, and healthy dining options for travelers seeking rejuvenation and self-care.

34. Mindfulness Retreats

Organize mindfulness retreats that combine meditation, yoga, and other mindfulness practices with scenic locations and expert guidance, catering to travelers seeking inner peace and personal growth.

35. Forest Bathing Experiences

Capitalize on the growing interest in the Japanese practice of “Shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing by offering guided nature walks and immersive experiences that promote relaxation and connection with the natural world.

Sustainable Tourism

36. eco-friendly tour operator.

Establish an eco-friendly tour operator that prioritizes sustainability and minimizes the environmental impact of travel. Offer responsible tours that support local communities and promote conservation efforts.

37. Upcycled Lodging

Create unique accommodations by repurposing and upcycling materials from various sources, such as shipping containers, abandoned buildings, or recycled materials, promoting sustainable and innovative lodging options.

38. Carbon Offset Travel Services

Offer a service that calculates and offsets the carbon footprint of travelers’ trips by investing in verified carbon offset projects, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

39. Sustainable Souvenir Marketplace

Establish an online or physical marketplace that curates and sells sustainable souvenirs, locally made products, and ethical handicrafts, promoting responsible consumption and supporting local artisans.

40. Eco-Tourism Consultancy

Provide consulting services to travel companies and destinations, helping them implement sustainable practices, reduce their environmental impact, and promote responsible tourism initiatives.

Niche Experiences

41. pet-friendly travel services.

Cater to pet owners by offering pet-friendly accommodations, activities, and travel services, allowing furry companions to accompany their owners on adventures.

42. Accessible Travel Solutions

Create travel solutions that cater to individuals with disabilities or special needs, offering accessible accommodations, transportation, and tailored experiences that ensure comfort and inclusion.

43. Genealogy Tourism

Tap into the growing interest in ancestry and family history by offering genealogy tourism services, assisting travelers in tracing their roots, visiting ancestral homelands, and connecting with their heritage.

44. Dark Tourism Experiences

For those interested in the macabre and historical tragedies, offer curated tours and experiences focused on dark tourism sites, such as battlefields, cemeteries, and sites of significant historical events.

45. Culinary Immersion Tours

Organize in-depth culinary immersion tours that go beyond traditional food tours, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local food culture, from farm visits to cooking classes and dining with local families.

46. Literary Tours

Create literary-themed tours that take book lovers on a journey through the settings of famous novels, visiting locations that inspired authors, and exploring the literary heritage of destinations.

47. Spiritual Pilgrimage Tours

Offer guided tours to sacred sites and spiritual destinations, catering to travelers seeking personal growth, spiritual enlightenment, or a deeper connection with their faith or beliefs.

48. Astro-Tourism Experiences

Capitalize on the growing interest in astronomy and stargazing by offering astro-tourism experiences, including dark sky observatories, guided night sky tours, and stargazing retreats in remote locations with minimal light pollution.

49. Adventure Wedding Services

Cater to adventurous couples by offering unique and memorable wedding experiences in stunning outdoor locations, such as beach ceremonies, mountain elopements, or adventurous honeymoon packages.

50. Gaming and Esports Tourism

Tap into the rapidly growing gaming and esports industry by offering tailored travel experiences for gaming enthusiasts, including attending major gaming events, visiting gaming-themed attractions, or participating in gaming-related activities and competitions.

• The travel and tourism industry offers a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs to tap into unique niches and cater to diverse traveler interests.
• From accommodation options like tiny houses and treehouses to experiential tours and sustainable tourism initiatives, the possibilities are endless.
• Technology plays a crucial role, enabling virtual reality tours, augmented reality city experiences, and innovative travel planning apps.
• Wellness and relaxation-focused offerings, such as yoga retreats and mindfulness getaways, cater to travelers seeking rejuvenation and self-care.
• Niche experiences like pet-friendly travel, accessible tourism, and dark tourism experiences cater to specialized interests and needs.
• Sustainable and eco-friendly practices are becoming increasingly important, with opportunities in eco-tourism consultancy, upcycled lodging, and carbon-offset travel services.

Q: What are some unique accommodation ideas for travelers? A: Tiny house rentals, glamping retreats, treehouse resorts, and houseboat rentals offer unique and memorable accommodation experiences for travelers seeking something out of the ordinary.

Q: How can technology enhance the travel experience? A: Technology can enhance the travel experience through virtual reality tours, augmented reality city experiences, language translation earbuds, travel planning apps, and contactless payment solutions for tourism.

Q: What are some sustainable tourism business ideas? A: Sustainable tourism business ideas include eco-friendly tour operators, upcycled lodging, carbon offset travel services, sustainable souvenir marketplaces, and eco-tourism consultancy services.

Q: What are some niche travel experiences that cater to specific interests? A: Niche travel experiences include pet-friendly travel services, accessible tourism solutions, genealogy tourism, dark tourism experiences, culinary immersion tours, literary tours, spiritual pilgrimage tours, astro-tourism experiences, adventure wedding services, and gaming and esports tourism.

Q: How can wellness and relaxation be incorporated into travel business ideas? A: Wellness and relaxation can be incorporated through yoga retreats, digital detox getaways, spa and wellness resorts, mindfulness retreats, and forest bathing experiences, catering to travelers seeking rejuvenation and self-care.

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16 adventurous travel business ideas (2024), march 11, 2024.

The travel industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, reaching over $1.6 trillion by 2028 . As more people prioritize experiences over material possessions this presents a major opportunity if you have been thinking about starting a travel business. Whether you want to start a boutique travel agency focusing on specific clientele or launch an adventurous excursion company, possibilities in the travel sector are endless.

If you still cannot figure out where to start, we got you covered with some of the most inspirational and profitable travel business ideas among globetrotters.

Best 16 travel business ideas

Here are some creative and profitable travel business ideas that you can start right away:

Local experience tours

Local experience tours offer immersive local experiences to tourists and travelers. This can be a good business idea because it allows visitors to deeply engage with local cultures, foods, activities, and people. Rather than just sightseeing, guests get to participate in unique adventures and make meaningful connections. For example, they may learn traditional cooking techniques from local chefs or join neighborhood walking tours led by long-time residents. This helps travelers create memories that a standard bus tour cannot provide. Meanwhile, it funnels tourist dollars into local communities and connects residents with appreciative guests.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Eco-friendly travel planning

Eco-friendly travel planning specializes in planning vacations focused on sustainability. This business would consult with travelers to suggest eco-friendly transportation, lodging, tours, and activities at each destination. Promoting green travel helps the environment by reducing carbon emissions. It also allows tourists to reduce their environmental impact through mindful choices. As more people seek eco-trips, a travel agency well-versed in this niche can match values-driven clients to the right locations and vendors. The differentiator is expertise in vetting and curating the most planet-friendly getaways.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Digital nomad services

It is a business that provides services to digital nomads. The business would help digital nomads be productive and enjoy their nomadic lifestyle. It could offer services like a membership program to access vetted wifi hotspots, discounts at co-working spaces, a network of trusted housesitters and property rentals, social meetups and events, job boards, and more. The goal would be to simplify logistics and create a community for remote workers on the go.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $1,000-$3,000 How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Travel blogging and vlogging

Travel blogging and vlogging refer to creating a blog and video blog to document travels. It involves creating written and visual content based on experiences visiting new destinations and sharing reviews about things like hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tours. There is a large audience of people who enjoy following along on others’ trips for inspiration on where to go as well as trustworthy recommendations. The blog and social media posts have the potential to generate clicks and shares as readers find the first-hand information helpful. All the content created while traveling opens up diverse moneymaking avenues. For instance, ads and affiliate marketing related to hospitality and tourism with commissions on reservations made.

How much you can make: $30,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $1,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Local guide services

By providing local knowledge, insider tips, and unique perspectives, a local guide service can help travelers discover hidden gems, understand the culture and history of a place, and create unforgettable memories. Moreover, this business model has low startup costs and can be easily scaled based on demand. It also supports the local economy by promoting small businesses and cultural attractions. With the rise of online platforms and social media, it has become easier than ever to market and book local guide services, making it a viable business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about their communities and eager to share their expertise with others.

How much you can make: $30,000-$60,000 How much does it cost to start: 1,000-$3,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Vacation rental management

It is a business that helps homeowners rent out their vacation properties. Owners hire this service to advertise listings, screen guests, manage bookings and payments, coordinate check-ins/outs, handle maintenance issues, and overall take care of all aspects of making the property available as a successful rental. The service benefits owners by maximizing occupancy and rental rates and it also benefits guests by providing professional management and good experiences. Overall it connects homeowners and travelers in a mutually beneficial way through convenient, managed vacation rentals.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Custom travel accessories

Custom travel accessories allow customers to personalize and customize their travel accessories. This business would offer products like luggage tags, passport holders, travel pillows, blankets, and more that could all be customized with the customer’s name, initials, favorite colors, and patterns. Customers appreciate custom accessories that feel made just for them. The business would cater to this demand by providing quality customizable products and a seamless online ordering experience. This allows customers to get the travel gear delivered right to their door.

How much you can make: $30,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Budget-friendly travel

Budget-friendly travel would help budget travelers by curating affordable travel packages, hotels, activities, and transportation options. For example, packages could bundle reduced-rate rooms with discounted local attractions, meals, and airport transfers to provide an entire trip for a reasonable price. Customers would simply choose their destination and desired budget, and receive an all-inclusive, cheap but high-quality travel experience. By hunting for travel deals, pre-arranging discounted group rates, and negotiating prices for budget bundles, the business does the hard work for the customer.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive is a worthwhile business idea to consider because many high-income people desire lavish getaways with top-tier amenities and easy convenience. The business would arrange deluxe experiences including six-star cruises with private balconies, butler service, and gourmet dining or five-star beach resorts offering elite spas, golf, and personalized adventure excursions. It solves the hassle of intricate travel planning for demanding luxury guests. By leveraging partnerships and global connections, the business can facilitate access to hard-to-book suites, dream locales, and elite recreations for well-to-do travelers seeking the ultimate, no-compromises holidays tailored specifically to their desires.

How much you can make: $100,000-$250,000 How much does it cost to start: $50,000-$100,000 How long does it take to build: 12-18 months

Glamping offers the experience of camping outdoors combined with more comfortable, outfitted tents, beds, furniture, bathrooms, and other amenities more commonly found in hotels. This can appeal to those who enjoy nature and the outdoors but don’t necessarily want to rough it in a traditional tent fully. There is demand for off-the-grid vacations and glamping caters well to this market. The start-up costs may be higher than traditional campgrounds to furnish the upscale tents and build suitable restrooms/showers. However, the nightly rates charged to guests offset this over time. It allows for seasonal hospitality without large permanent real estate. The modular and transportable nature also provides flexibility if relocating the glamping resort is necessary.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 How much does it cost to start: $20,000-$50,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Go solo or go social

Go solo or go social provides a platform for people to access services, either individually or in a social setting. The premise is that some services are best-enjoyed solo while others are more fun with company. For example, a massage may be preferred alone while going to a dance class could be more enjoyable with friends. The business would allow users to search for and book various services, selecting if they want to partake solo or if they want to facilitate a group social experience around the service. This can help service providers reach more customers, especially younger demographics interested in social experiences. It also caters to solo customers unable or unwilling to coordinate groups. Allowing both individual and shared services widens the target market.

How much you can make: $30,000-$60,000 How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Crypto trips

Crypto Trips accepts payment in cryptocurrencies and rewards customers with crypto tokens or NFTs. This allows crypto enthusiasts to spend their assets on memorable life experiences while earning exclusive rewards. It makes cryptocurrency more usable in daily life. The agency would partner with hospitality vendors to build travel packages that crypto holders could purchase with their preferred coin. Along with the trips, customers would gain access to unique digital collectibles from that destination. As cryptocurrencies gain mainstream traction, a crypto-based travel agency creates a practical use case while catering to a tech-savvy audience.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Sleep tourism

Sleep tourism is an idea where people travel specifically to get high-quality sleep. It would involve setting up accommodations designed specifically for optimal sleep health. This could be attractive for those who struggle with poor sleep at home due to noise, light, uncomfortable beds, etc. Quality sleep is increasingly seen as vital for physical and mental health, yet many do not prioritize it. This business would cater to that need, becoming a sleep-focused travel destination. Visitors could enjoy comfortable beds and bedrooms, carefully regulated temperatures and lighting suited for sleep, soundproofing, and possibly amenities like soothing music or scents. The sleep tourism business would be founded on the understanding that quality sleep underpins health, performance, and well-being. Providing an environment optimized solely for excellent slumber, it allows travelers to experience the proven benefits of great sleep.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Adventure travel guide service

Adventure travel guide service connects adventure travelers with experienced, local guides at their destination. Many people want more immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences when they travel. However, finding trustworthy, knowledgeable guides can be challenging, especially in developing countries. This service would vet potential guides, connect them with clients based on adventure activity interests and trip details, and take a percentage from the guide fees. It would make adventure travel easier to plan and provide income to local guides.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Corporate travel management

Corporate travel management specializes in booking and managing business travel for companies. Many large companies spend a significant amount on employee travel but find coordinating all the flights, hotels, transportation, and other details very time-consuming which makes it a profitable business idea. A corporate travel management company simplifies the process by customizing travel booking platforms, negotiating discounts with travel vendors, providing a dedicated account manager, organizing group travel, and streamlining expense reporting.

How much you can make: $75,000-$150,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Destination wedding planner

A destination wedding planner business helps engaged couples plan and execute their dream wedding in a romantic, exotic destination away from home. A destination wedding planner also often costs less than a traditional domestic wedding. A planner could provide end-to-end planning services to make travel arrangements, book venues, and vendors, manage legal paperwork, suggest ideas to personalize details and coordinate the event. They simplify the process for the couple while also getting a commission from referring vendors.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Success in this vibrant industry demands blending creativity, adaptability, and comprehending your audience. Yes, we know that the road ahead may be paved with challenges, but the rewards of building a successful travel business are well worth the trek. From the personal fulfillment of turning your passion into a profession to the financial freedom of a flourishing enterprise, the potential payoffs are immense. For those brave souls embarking on the journey of travel startups , the future holds boundless opportunities.

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• Creative and profitable 3D printing business ideas .
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• Profitable and funny business idea that you can start today.
• Healthcare business ideas with growth potential.
• Box truck business ideas with profit potential.

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51 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas to Start in 2024

Home » Blog » 51 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas to Start in 2024

The travel and tourism business provides a wide range of services with the following different ideas to make sure that every traveler finds the right trip.

Most travelers or customers are looking for a beautiful adventure journey to fulfill their achievements. 

So, the travel business spends a lot of effort applying several techniques to build relationships with customers and local communities peoples.

The travel industry wants to become a top expert on changing travel experiences by focusing on smart marketing and customer happiness which help people go on the memorial journey and never forget.

Table of contents

Overview of the travel and tourism industry, 1. adventure tourism company, 2. tour guides business, 3. eco-tourism resort, 4. accommodations and breakfast business, 5. wellness retreat center, 6. cultural immersion tours, 7. vehicles rental business, 8. sustainable travel agency, 9. travel photographs business, 10. wildlife safari, 11. boutique hotel chain, 12. language learning travel program, 13. pet-friendly accommodations, 14. health tourism agency, 15. travel blogging/ vlogging, 16. adventure the sports events, 17. destinations wedding planning, 18. outdoor education programs, 19. cultural exchange programs, 20. digital travel marketplace, 21. historical recreation events, 22. luxury train journeys, 23. sustainable farm stays, 24. adventure training courses, 25. wildlife conservation tours, 26. travel safety consulting, 27. travel technology solutions, 28. virtual reality travel experiences, 29. cultural heritage preservation, 30. family adventure travel, 31. backpacker hostel chain, 32. outdoor adventure gear manufacturing, 33. destination accessibility consulting, 34. sustainable tourism certification, 35. adventure sports instructions.

• 36. Agritourism Experiences 

37. Adventure Travel Media Production

38. travel tech startups, 39. pet transportation services, 40. remote work retreats, 41. art and culture tours, 42. community tourism initiatives, 43. sustainable travel education, 44. water taxi services, 45. glamping resort, 46. sustainable souvenir shop, 47. coffee shop, 48. event planning, 49. translation services, 50. culinary tourism agency, 51. medical tourism, comparison of travel business ideas concepts, identity your passion and expertise, research the market trends, evaluate competitor landscape, assess resource requirements, seek mentorship and advice, the travel and hospitality industry, small tourism business ideas concepts, frequently asked questions.

The travel and tourism industry is very broad and includes many different types of action to connect travelling for work, pleasure and other reasons. 

You can explore and test the best travel agency themes to find the one that perfectly fits your suitable business concepts.

The travel business creates jobs, builds infrastructures and shares culture between local communities and travelers which helps to the growth of the world travel economy.  

The tourism industry serves a wide range of travelers, from backpackers on a budget to tourists who want to live a luxurious life.

The way of travelers study schedules, and book their trips has improved with the technology change so, travel agencies take more ideas and features to attract more customers.

You can Get WP Travel Pro to add features to your travel website.

51 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas

Nowadays, most of the travel business than just opening travel agencies. Many tour business plans can make travel and tourism businesses more profitable. Let’s explore some travel business techniques.

The adventure tourism company organizes adventure trips like hiking, rock climbing, and rafting which is considered as popular travel business ideas to start in 2024.

This company specializes in leading outdoor adventure experiences for tourists and people who like thrills and nature.

If you want to open a travel agency currently to find ways to start and grow your travel business, then choosing the ready-made travel plugin saves a whole lot of time, effort, and resources.

You can try WP Travel, trusted by 6000+ travel business owners to launch their travel booking website right away without any hassle of a highly paid bunch of developers and coding stuff.

First, you have a business idea but don’t have any money to invest in it – at least in the beginning phase. 

If you want to be successful, you should know lots of places where you can start your business.

If you are in out the cities areas it is best for your Eco-tourism business. It helps to promote and utilization of safe and responsible tourism that reduces bad environmental effects and encourages the well-being of local communities. 

For those people who want to use their home as a business like a homestay, or motel. This is best for accommodations and breakfast . 

You have to make it popular to get a lot of travelers to come, and you need to give them a great experience.

Most people become increasingly aware of their physical and mental well-being, you can start the wellness retreat centre to provide physical and mental health sessions and classes.

Traveler are curious about the local community traditions, and religions. So, you have to provide the travel experiences with a deeper, more supportive and more authentic connection to the destination.

It is the easy way to operate the travel business by tasting local foods, joining in cultural events, and selling your travel-related local products.

Several travelers and tourists depend on cars to get around when they want to travel in local areas. For this purpose, a Car Rental is the best choice for running the travel business.

This business suits you if you have any skill and knowledge with care and motorbike.

The sustainable travel industry plays a vital role in promoting ethical and ec-conscious tourism behaviour in the travel field.

If you love nature wildlife and ecosystems, the sustainable travel business is environmental conservation.

Let’s launch your travel booking website today!

Trip photography companies are one of the apparent choices if you are a solopreneurship. You have the option and freedom to travel, take pictures and make money as a travel photographer.

In addition, if you’re truly skilled, you may earn a lot of money through the different photography websites.

Wildlife safari offers tourists unique and memorable moments and provides them to watch wild animals in their native environments.

If you have knowledge about wildlife or work in any park or zoo it helps you to grow the travel business.

Boutique hotel companies help you to work in a unique atmosphere design and decor, giving visitors a pleasant break from regular accommodations which helps to grow your travel business.

Most travelers learn the other country and community languages, which helps them survive there easily. 

You can start different country language tutorials to earn money for the growth of your travel business. 

You can build your hotel, motel and rooms suitable for customers’ pets. That helps you get more booking chances and get the best reviews and ratings.

Health tourism companies connect tourists with specialist medical treatments and health services that may not be accessible in their home countries.

You have to provide advanced medical treatments, or special surgeries to travelers when they are in any health issues.

Travel blogging/vlogging is often regarded as one of the famous travel business ideas to earn a living . You can write or create travel-related content and make vlogs where you can earn money. Also, it supports travelers in finding out the best destinations.

You can organize adventure sports tournaments and competitions to support the travel industry and grow your travel business. 

Destination weddings offer couples stunning and romantic settings, like tropical beaches, historic sites, green parks or mountain hills. 

These beautiful places provide wedding, and party events and make memorable memories for couples and their guests.

You can link with colleges and schools to offer educational trips focused on nature and sustainability.

A cultural exchange program offers you a variety of benefits within the travel business, promoting culture, understanding, and teamwork between people of different countries.

You can create a platform that connects travelers with local guides. Today most travel companies connect on digital platforms and promote their business. 

The historical recreation events provide an engaging and informative experience for travelers. You can create a project related to historical events and promote your travel business.

Luxury train travel provides travelers with comfort and luxury, offering well-appointed rooms, soft furniture, and helpful services. 

Where you can provide sleeping accommodations for elegant dining cars and lounges. 

Sustainable farm stays on of the travel business where you can provide the accommodations on working farms. 

Like in Pokhara, where you can fishing the fish in a pond and then you have it with other food items.

Adventure training classes provide several benefits to the travel business, like teaching individuals seeking outdoor experiences, skill development, and personal growth. 

Wildlife supports guide tours, conversion, and engaging activities, customers gain the value of nature, the risks facing wildlife, and the role of conservation in saving natural environments. 

You can provide wildlife conservation tour packages to wildlife photographers and travelers.

Provides risk assessment and safety training for travelers to earn money and growth the travel business. 

Travel technology solutions have many tasks, like booking management, planning, and handling the payment process. 

It helps you to book hotels, plane tickets, and other services which improve your travel business.

It has many benefits for your travel business, like making decisions easier, accessibility, and improving marketing and training.

It helps travel agencies with personalization, saving travel costs, and making them a valuable asset for the travel industry.

Cultural heritage protection makes society better in different ways, by promoting cultural education and identity, driving economic growth, supporting intercultural understanding, and community empowerment.

You can add the family-friendly adventure vacation travel package to promote your travel business.

Establish budget-friendly accommodations for travelers as they feel like their home.

Manufacture equipment for outdoor adventure tours and travel and sell them to travelers and travel agencies.

This a smart way to make destinations more inclusive, profitable and long-lasting in the global tourist market, which is good for everyone involved with the destinations.

You have to certify businesses committed to sustainability in the travel markets.

For travelers or adventurous persons, you can teach outdoor activities like surfing or skiing.

36. Agritourism Experiences 

 You offer the tourists or visitors farm tours and agricultural experiences.

Establish the travel media productions to produce content focused on adventure travel.

Travel tech companies are very important for innovation, competition, and change in the travel industry. Where you can develop innovative solutions for the travel business.

Provides transportation services for travelers or customers’ pets. 

You have to host retreats for digital nomads and remote workers to build your travel business.

Travel companies, travelers and target communities can benefit from art and culture trips. It makes them very useful in the tourism industry’s desire to provide sustainable travel experiences.

Support the local communities through the establishment the travel companies.

It is a strong way to encourage responsible tourism, empower the people and communities, protect nature and cultural assets make the tourism business more sustainable in the long term.

You can offer water taxi services to your customers depending on where you are for travel business to work.

Making the glamping resort to a tour business can provide unique experiences, and help the business stand out in the market. So, it is suitable for you to start the travel business.

Operating a sustainable souvenir shop in the travel business, including promoting sustainable consumption, preserving cultural heritage, and protecting the environment for the tourism industry’s long-term sustainability.

As a place where travelers can stop and relax in a friendly and fun environment, a coffee shop helps the travel business’s overall success and sustainability of the travel business.

Another business model, corporate event planning plays a pretty good role in the travel business. You will be responsible for designing unique corporate events as an event planner.

Translation services are another popular choice for travlers and other people who want to run their own travel business. 

This skill will also support you when you have to deal with people from outside your business. 

It helps food tourism and cultural exchange because agencies put travelers in touch with the unique tastes and cooking customs of places all over the world.

In recent times, medical tourism is one of the feasible travel business ideas, that has grown in popularity all over the world. Most the people are interested in both modern medicine and natural, traditional treatment options. 

Explore the features and pricing of top tour operator software

It is the idea for tourism industry owners to choose the best travel business concepts, we have made a table that compares different travel business ideas based on capital requirement, potential profitability, and global market sizes.

Over time, the market size of the travel business might change. We request everyone to review individual businesses’ market size change log for better understanding.

This data is taken from trusted and relevant sources.

How do you choose the best travel business ideas?

The best travel industry ideas for your company depend on your goals, hobbies, and market opportunities.

There are several things to choosing the best travel business idea to ensure its viability and potential for success.

These are some steps to help you to choose the best tour business ideas.

You can think about the parts of the travel business that interest you the most and your experiences. 

If you want success in travel business, make a business around which you are most interested and fulfill your requirements. 

Most travel businesses keep up with the latest trends to find out about the needs of the market and customers, new fields, and area growth with potential. 

Always find out the gaps or underserved markets where you can fulfil the customer’s needs by taking something new and valuable. 

The travel industry analyzes your competitors for your business and includes both direct and indirect competitors. You can figure out how can make your business stand out and provide extra value to attract customers.

While opening the travel business you think about the startup costs, running the business, following the government rules and regulations, and technology needs.

You can focus on seeking guidance from mentors, people who work in the industry, or business advisers who have experience in the travel industry. 

These ideas and suggestions can help your business to improve its business plan and raise your chance of success.

The travel and hospitality field meets the needs of travelers, tourists and guests. 

It includes everything from transportation and lodging to dining, pleasure and recreational activities.

These are the main components of the travel and hospitality industry business.

• Transportation Services
• Accommodation 
• Food and Beverage Services
• Attractions and Entertainment
• Travel agencies and tour operators
• Travel Technology and Online Booking Platforms
• Hospitality Services and Facilities Management

The travel and hotel industry is made up of many different types of companies and services that all play a part in the travel economy and travel experience. 

These companies work together to meet the needs and expectations of travelers. 

The travel and hospitality industry has unique experiences, and they help to target economic growth and development within destination fields.

Useful for you: Future of Travel and Tourism Industry

Small tourism companies that offer unique experiences and target specific groups in the travel industry can be very profitable.

In the competitive travel market, small tourism companies can provide excellent customer service. Small tourism businesses can provide the best services at low prices.

These are some technics for starting a small travel and tourism business.

• Culinary Tours
• Adventure Tourism
• Ecotourism and Sustainable Tours 
• Cultural Immersion Experiences
• Bike or Segway Tours
• Photography Tours
• Wellness and Yoga Retreats

These are just a few small tourism and business ideas that people who want to start their own business. 

In the tough travel market, small tourism companies can stand out by catering to specific groups of people, providing different events, and giving great customer service.

If you want to start a small travel business, WP Travel is the best travel plugin . You can also try WP Travel Pro to add more features and functionalities to your websites.

The best business for travel and travel depends upon different factors. These are some best tourism businesses: Tour Operators, Travel agencies, Luxury Travel Companies, and Transportation Companies.

A good tourism business must provide a memorable experience for your customers . Therefore, it‘s important to keep this in mind while you are starting a travel business.

The 3 positives of the tourism industry are boosting the revenue of the total economy, providing several jobs, and developing the infrastructures of the tourism field.

Yam Bahadur Chhetri is a content writer and vivid contributor to the WordPress community and a WordPress enthusiast with an experience of 7+ years in the relative field. He also loves to develop WordPress Themes, Plugins, and custom WordPress development for clients.

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Start » business ideas, 10 travel and hospitality business ideas.

Do you have a love of travel or a knack for being a hospitable host? Pursuing one of these travel and hospitality business ideas may be the right move for you.

For those with a love of exploration and meeting new people, the travel and hospitality industry offers a promising avenue for success. With the market expanding to nearly $4.7 billion in 2023, these 10 ideas can provide great opportunities for entrepreneurs of various interests and levels of expertise.

Bed-and-breakfast owner

Instead of staying at typical hotel chains, many travelers are opting for road trips to smaller, more quaint destinations, seeking accommodations with a certain charm, character, and personal approach to hospitality. With a market size of $35.5 billion as of 2024, the bed-and-breakfast industry checks all these boxes — and its only expected to grow, reaching nearly $44.7 billion by 2029.

The bed-and-breakfast industry is perfect for those looking to enter the tourism landscape without leaving home. However, there's more to running a B&B than one's desire to host and mingle. You'll need to find a way to differentiate yourself from competitors in your market, such as offering sustainable, farm-to-table or plant-based menus, or interactive cooking classes, to attract guests.

B&B ownership comes with a significant upfront investment. You will need a residence with enough space to create private accommodations for guests, ideally each with their own bathrooms. The more rooms you have to offer, the greater the income potential. However, the residence must be zoned properly to operate legally.

Expect startup expenses for things like permits and business licenses. Other expenses will include building out guest rooms, buying furnishings and essentials, and accounting for kitchen upgrades and food needs. Operational costs will increase as your business grows to cover expenses like employee paychecks, property maintenance, and food and supplies.

Vacation rental owner

Perhaps you don't have the indoor square footage and blueprints to create bed-and-breakfast accommodations, but you possess the gift of great hospitality, live in a desirable destination, and have an enviable backyard or are near a special natural setting. You could have the makings of a short-term vacation rental business.

If you have accommodations you'd like to rent short term, platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can be great resources to promote your home to a large audience. These platforms have standards your property must follow, and you'll likely need to make some upfront investments for things such as furnishings, amenities, and property maintenance. You'll also need to ensure you have someone to manage your property, whether that is yourself or an outsourced employee.

Before listing your property, be sure your local and state regulations permit you to do so — otherwise, you could waste time and money on a property you can’t rent.

Another option is to offer glamping accommodations. Glamping is elevated camping featuring upgraded accommodations that range from luxurious tents to more unique structures and an emphasis on comfort and amenities like access to bathrooms, fire pits, cookware to facilitate meal prep … and maybe even an outdoor pizza oven. This alternative accommodation style is becoming increasingly popular among couples, groups of friends, and families, with forecasts predicting 8.7% growth in the glamping market by 2030.

Before you jump into the short-term rental industry, secure all necessary permits for your location. Once you're ready for visitors, post swoonworthy photos on social media and all the details on booking sites like Airbnb, Glamping Hub, or Vrbo.

[Read more: Hospitality Execs from Airbnb and Google to Marriott Reveal Key Growth Strategies ]

Private tour guide

If you live in or near a sought-after town or city and love to share everything there is to know (including its best-kept secrets) with others, offering your knowledge and passion as a private tour guide could be rewarding and profitable. You can set your own schedule, create an experience that is unlike any other in your area, and customize tours based on traveler preferences and interests.

Boost your credibility by getting certified as a tour guide or travel professional. There are several ways to do this, such as obtaining a state-specific tour guide license, becoming a travel and tourism professional (TTP) through the International Air Transport Association, or earning a certified travel associate (CTA) certification through the Institute of Certified Travel Agents.

Building relationships with cool local businesses can be a great way to give tourists an insider's perspective and support the community. Get your feet wet with the built-in audience and fulfillment support of platforms like ToursByLocals, which connects travelers with private local guides for a percentage of each booking. Build your business by posting tour details on local Facebook groups as well as groups targeted to visitors to your area.

Travel blogger

Travel bloggers have become a trusted source for inspiration, advice, and recommendations for those dreaming about or planning trips. These bloggers document their research and experiences, often in great detail, through captivating writing and images that command the attention of travelers — and the advertisers and content providers who want to reach them. Having a niche (like sustainable travel, solo travel, or last-minute getaways), a unique voice, and great insider tips on local hot spots or ways to save time and money are key.

Building a profitable business out of your passion entails a lot of relationship-building and marketing to integrate affiliate links, content sponsorship, and advertising, plus becoming part of the select few who are offered paid travel to write about a locale or hotel. You can also generate income by charging a fee for travel photographers to curate your site with their images, crediting them, and linking back to their online galleries.

As a starting point, it's a good idea to spend time on leading travel blogs to gain insight and learn the best practices. Analyze these websites to determine which topics are the most engaging to readers and where you can offer superior content. Focus on improving your blog's search engine optimization , incorporating engaging visual elements, and posting content regularly that is easy to read and provides value to your audience.

[Read more: 7 Steps to Setting Up a Location-Independent Business ]

For those with a love of exploration and meeting new people, the travel and hospitality industry offers a promising avenue for success.

Tourism and hospitality translator

If you're fluent in multiple languages and speak and write with creativity, proficiency, and ease, there are tour operators, hotels, restaurants, and many other travel-related businesses that could use your skills. From websites to brochures to menus, inclusivity is key to welcoming travelers who want to understand the food, art, attractions, and culture of their chosen destination without language being a barrier.

As a translator, you can help businesses of all sizes create dynamic digital and traditional communications that assist their foreign customers and create lasting, positive experiences. You can also offer in-person services as a translator for hotel guests in need of an interpreter for tours, business meetings, or social engagements.

Although a language degree isn't mandatory to work as a translator — provided you can prove your fluency — many employers prefer candidates with such a degree. Otherwise, relevant postgraduate experiences or qualifications may be necessary.

Photographer

Photographers in the travel space are skilled at capturing the best or most interesting attributes of a destination, its people, and its culture. Photography is an exciting profession for those who have mastered the makings of a great shot from angles to lighting and have the equipment, flexibility, and adventurous spirit to deliver wonder and a sense of the world through images.

Travel photography is not limited to one style or category. It is a field with many different specialties. The key is aligning your passion and talent with opportunities in the marketplace, such as photography for marketing materials, web content, or selling your images as prints. For example, if you like practicing photography in tandem with other skills, consider leading photo walks or trips to scenic locations you’ve scouted. Or if you’d prefer to travel alone, connect with businesses/organizations and offer to create promotional content on their behalf in exchange for travel and lodging coverage.

Regardless of the route you take, an attention-worthy digital portfolio, a social media presence, and positive reviews can be key drivers toward success.

Local cooking classes

Do you love to cook and get rave reviews for your culinary skills? Know some recipes that capture the flavors of your hometown, city, or region? Why not consider hosting cooking classes marketed to travelers and visitors looking for something special and authentic to do during their adventure?

Culinary tourism has exploded, valued at $11.5 billion as of 2023 as more people crave travel that exposes them to exciting food and drink experiences. An off-the-beaten-track invitation to participate in preparing local flavors in the comfort of a home kitchen is a very intimate, special, and unique opportunity.

Offer a menu of local favorites while sharing stories and anecdotes that captivate. Make sure to know and fulfill any licensing requirements that exist in your town. While formal training often isn't necessary to host these classes, having strong teaching skills are crucial to providing a valuable experience for your customers.

Vehicle rental

While rental car services are abundant, those with a spare set of wheels can offer a better value to out-of-town travelers in need of a way to get around. Start by test-driving the idea through one of the popular peer-to-peer platforms already up and running, like Turo and Getaround. These apps have the ability to prescreen applicants to weed out those with a record of past major accidents or frequent violations and also protect car owners with an insurance policy of up to $1 million — all important elements to consider and have in place.

Then, consider establishing your own rental business. adding the vehicles of nearby friends and neighbors to your fleet. You'll need to obtain permits, licenses, and liability insurance , which is mandatory for all car rental businesses to hold and offer to customers while renting. If your business allows rentals across state lines, familiarize yourself with the regulations across all locations where you permit customers to travel, as these rules will apply.

[Read more: Courting Customers: Leading Travel Companies Embrace Tech to Hyper-Personalize Experiences ]

Souvenir shop

Travelers rarely return home without bearing gifts for others and something for themselves to remember their travels. In fact, the souvenir and novelty market is expected to reach an estimated value of $114.2 million by 2028 . Sadly, the reality is that touristy gift shops are a dime a dozen, turning out factory-made T-shirts and trinkets and lacking the authenticity that many travelers seek. If you live in an area rich in history and culture and have sales experience, explore the possibility of opening a gift shop featuring and supporting local artisans.

Begin by finding a niche that is not being catered to in your market. Then, you can apply for the proper licenses and permits, including resale permits depending on your location. Expect additional upfront costs for things like rent and building out your storefront and the cost of the goods.

Sourcing items can be a challenge; however, Etsy is a great platform for identifying creators who live in your area and may have crafts and wares with a wow factor. Local restaurants with their own lines of bottled or packaged foods are another good area to explore.

Travel concierge service

If you are well traveled, highly resourceful, well connected, and hyperfocused on life's little details, you can put your knowledge and skills to good use as a personal or corporate travel concierge. A travel concierge attends to every aspect of their clients' travels, from arranging transportation and dining reservations to accessing premium event tickets and booking tours, attractions, and unique experiences.

A background in tourism or hospitality can be a plus for those looking to enter this industry, as is niche expertise in a particular city or region. For instance, establishing yourself as an expert in all things Paris or focusing on tours for wine enthusiasts can help make you more marketable and focus your marketing efforts accordingly.

Whatever your business's focus, you'll need a license and permits, including industry-specific ones that vary by location. Startup costs will likely include employee salaries, office rentals, technology, and marketing expenses.

The key is to make travel smooth, safe, memorable, and authentic for your clients and elicit positive reviews through word-of-mouth and on well-trafficked travel sites and social platforms. Creating valuable online content can help improve your visibility by providing your audience with useful information and establishing your business as a trusted resource.

This article was originally written by Andrea Forstadt.

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to start a travel business in 7 steps

• Rachel Bistricer
• 11 min read

Get started by: Creating a website →  | Getting a domain →

Starting a business  in the travel industry can be a thrilling and profitable venture. Criteo’s survey reveals that more people worldwide  plan to visit friends or family or travel for leisure in the next one to three months in 2024. This surge in global travel presents a golden opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to dive into the vibrant travel industry.

This guide will walk you through the steps of starting and managing a successful travel agency, some examples of travel business websites  and how to become profitable.

What is a travel business?

A travel business is a service-oriented business   that offers clients various travel-related accommodations, amenities and services. Travel agencies typically provide services such as:

Trip planning and reservations

Transportation services, including flights, car rentals and transfers

Accommodations, such as hotels, resorts and vacation rentals

Tour guide packages and experiences

Travel insurance and assistance services

Why start a travel business?

The travel industry is on an exciting upward trajectory, with a projected annual growth rate of 3.47% globally through 2028 . With travelers spending billions every year on accommodations, transportation and other services, the travel sector is a goldmine of potential revenue.

In addition, people want personalized, unique travel experiences tailored to their preferences. Euromonitor International  shares that travelers would be willing to pay more for these customized experiences. This means there's a huge opportunity to create your own travel agency that delivers these one-of-a-kind trips and reap big from the growing demand for personalized travel.

Decide on a travel business niche

Create a business plan

Select a business structure

Obtain business financing or capital

Set up accounting and bookkeeping services

Source specific travel equipment

Register your travel business

01. Decide on a travel business niche

The first step to creating a travel business is deciding on the specific niche you want to target. Focusing on a specific market segment—like adventure travel, family vacations, luxury trips, wellness retreats or sustainable tourism—allows you to create experiences that resonate with each traveler. 

It also helps to differentiate your services, position yourself as an expert in the chosen area and effectively target people seeking those particular travel experiences.

02. Create a business plan

A business plan serves as a roadmap for your business and helps you communicate your vision to potential investors when looking for funding. Create a detailed business plan  that outlines the key aspects of your company. This includes identifying your target market, summarizing your executive strategy, implementing a marketing strategy  and projecting your financials. 

Also, make sure to include important details like the type of business  you want to start and your chosen business name .

Here’s a travel business plan template you can use to get started. Adjust and expand the sections based on your specific business model and goals.

Here’s a travel business plan template to get you started:

Travel business plan template

Executive Summary

Business Name:  [Your Travel Business Name]

Business Structure:  [Sole Proprietorship/Partnership/LLC/Corporation]

Location:  [City, State]

Founding Date:  [Month, Year]

Founders/Owners:  [Names]

Mission Statement:  [Concise statement of the business’s purpose]

Business Description

Overview:  Briefly describe your travel business, including key features, services and amenities.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):  Clearly define what sets your travel business apart from competitors.

Target Market:  Identify your primary customer demographic and market segment.

Services and Amenities

List and describe the travel services and amenities your business will offer.

Include trip planning, transportation, accommodations, tour packages, etc.

Market Analysis

Industry Overview:  Provide an overview of the travel industry, including trends and growth projections.

Competitor Analysis:  Identify key competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses.

Target Audience:  Define your target customer profile and their preferences.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Marketing Plan:  Outline your strategies for promoting the travel business, including online and offline channels.

Pricing Strategy:  Detail your pricing structure and any promotional pricing.

Sales Tactics:  Describe how you will attract clients and increase bookings.

Operational Plan

Location and Facilities:  Describe the physical location and facilities of your travel business.

Suppliers:  List and describe key suppliers for travel-related services.

Staffing:  Outline your staffing plan, including roles and responsibilities.

Financial Plan

Startup Costs:  Detail initial investment requirements and startup expenses.

Revenue Projections:  Provide realistic revenue projections for the first 3-5 years.

Operating Costs:  Outline ongoing operating expenses, including marketing, staff salaries and technology.

Funding Proposal

Purpose of Funding:  Clearly state how the funds will be utilized.

Amount Needed:  Specify the amount of funding required.

Repayment Plan:  Outline the proposed repayment plan for loans or investments.

Risk Analysis

Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the success of your travel business.

Develop strategies to mitigate and manage these risks.

Include any additional documents or information relevant to your business plan.

Examples:  Market research data, resumes of key team members, mock-ups of marketing materials.

Summarize the key points of your business plan and highlight the potential success of your travel business.

Conclude with a call to action or next steps.

Note: This template serves as a general guide. Adjust and expand sections based on your specific business model and goals.

03. Select a business structure

Here, you get to choose the business structure that best suits your goals. Common options like a sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC)  or corporation  each have their own pros and cons.

For example, a sole proprietorship is easy to set up and you have complete control over the business. But there isn't a legal distinction between you and the business, which means you take personal responsibility for all debt, losses and taxes. 

On the other hand, a corporation offers limited personal liability, which allows shareholders to purchase stock without worrying about their private assets being used to clear loans if the company goes into debt. However, setting up a corporation can be complex and costly. You may also get double taxation (on profits and dividends).

Learn more:   How to start an LLC  

04. Obtain business financing or capital

While starting a travel business can be quite an adventure, it also comes with significant upfront costs. You'll need money to get things rolling and keep your business afloat. This might mean taking out bank loans, hunting for grants or attracting investments from stakeholders.

You must first calculate how much capital you need to start and run your business until it becomes self-sustaining. Some expenses to consider include:

Building a website  and maintaining it

Marketing and advertising campaigns

Trip planning software and tools

Reservation systems and travel management software

Staff recruitment and travel agent training

Initial salaries and benefits for employees

Transportation services (e.g., vehicle fleet or partnerships with transportation providers)

Technology infrastructure (computers, servers, etc.)

Licensing and permits for operating a travel business

Insurance coverage for travel-related risks

Office space and utilities

Professional services (legal, accounting, etc.)

Next, consider the various sources of funding for your travel business. Each funding option has its own requirements, benefits and levels of risk. Explore multiple avenues to find the best fit for your business model. 

Some common options include:

Personal savings:  Using your savings can help you fund your business without taking on debt. But you need to have enough reserves to cover business expenses and emergencies.

Bank loans:  To qualify, you’ll need a strong credit history and a solid business plan. Be prepared to provide collateral and demonstrate your ability to repay the loan.

Small Business Administration (SBA) loans:  SBA loans are designed to support small businesses and often come with favorable terms. The application process can be lengthy, but the benefits are worth the effort.

05. Set up accounting and bookkeeping systems

Invest in reliable accounting software that suits your business needs to establish strong accounting and bookkeeping systems. Popular options like QuickBooks  and Xero  offer features tailored for small businesses, such as invoicing, expense tracking and financial reporting. 

It's also best to open a dedicated business bank account to separate your business and personal finances. This will simplify bookkeeping and make sure you record all business transactions accurately.

06. Source specific travel equipment

The right equipment can enhance the quality of your services, boost customer satisfaction and help you stand out in a competitive market. Consider the type of travel experiences you want to offer and the specific requirements of your target audience. 

Then, make a list of necessary items such as:

Reservation management software

Vehicles (if you provide transportation services)

Communication systems (like phones and email)

Office furniture and supplies

Technology infrastructure (like computers and servers)

Some equipment, like cars, might be too expensive to purchase outright. So, consider renting or leasing options. That way, you can access high-quality equipment without a significant initial investment.

07. Register your travel business

After writing your business plan and choosing your business structure and name, it’s time to register with federal and state governments to legally operate your travel business. 

This includes filing the necessary paperwork to create your business entity, such as articles of incorporation for a corporation or articles of organization for an LLC. You must also get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes.

In addition, depending on your location and specific services, you may have to get various licenses and permits. These could include a general business license, a seller of travel (SOT) license or specific industry-related permits. Research the requirements in your state and local area so that you comply with all regulations to avoid fines and legal issues.

Learn more: How to register a business , How to get a business license

Tips for managing your travel business for profitability:

Now that your travel business is up and running, you need to manage it properly to become profitable. Here are some general tips on how to achieve that:

Research your industry

The travel industry is dynamic, with new trends emerging regularly. Therefore, get to know the sector inside out. Understand your competitors, target customers and what kind of financial investment you need. This way, you can tailor your services to meet customer expectations, which can result in them recommending your business to others. 

If you're new to the travel industry, consider gaining experience by working as a travel agent or volunteering at a tourism office. This hands-on experience will give you valuable insights and skills, which you can use to build a network of industry contacts who can be crucial for your company’s success.

Develop a marketing strategy

A marketing strategy helps you reach your target audience, build brand awareness and drive bookings. Focus on the channels where your audience is most active. This includes social media, email and doing partnerships with influencers or travel bloggers. 

Consider launching a travel blog , too, as over a third  of people worldwide visit personal travel blogs for ideas. A user-friendly and search engine optimized (SEO) travel website can help showcase your services and attract potential customers. 

Learn more:  Check out these travel blog names  for some inspiration. 

Once you build your website, create engaging content, such as blog posts, videos, newsletters and promotional offers that resonate with your audience. High-quality content builds trust, showcases your expertise and encourages potential clients to book with you.

Invest in customer service for your travel business

A travel business isn't just about booking flights and hotels for clients—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences from the moment a customer starts planning their trip until they return home. That is what leads to referrals. In fact, 61% of travelers   say that recommendations from friends and family are crucial deciding factors when choosing a travel company.

With that in mind, respond to customer inquiries quickly and professionally. Help clients navigate every aspect of their journey, whether it’s dealing with lost luggage or offering travel insurance advice. Be the dependable support they need while traveling, like having a 24/7 concierge service at their disposal. This way, you’ll have a highly satisfied customer base that feels supported and valued throughout their travel experience.

Build partnerships for business operations

To boost the growth of your travel business, think about teaming up with airlines, hotels, tour operators and key players in the industry. These partnerships can unlock exclusive deals that let you offer clients exciting perks like preferential rates, premium accommodations and tailored travel packages, which enhance the value of your services.  

You can also attend networking events and industry gatherings to meet experienced professionals and gain valuable insights. Building these connections and staying on top of the latest trends can position your travel business as the go-to expert for people looking to travel.

Travel businesses to inspire (all built on Wix)

Let’s now look at some examples of successful travel businesses to give you an idea of how to start one.

The Lucky Traveler

Travel expert specializing in planning All-inclusive Vacations, Comprehensive Trip Planning, Points and Miles Consultation and Destination Weddings.

A full service travel agency with experience in planning "bucket list" vacations and navigating the travel industry.

Worldwide Fun4All travel

Travel agent focusing on planning tailoring trips to clients needs and interests.

Benefits of starting a travel business:

Running a travel business gives you the freedom to be your own boss. You can set your own hours, make decisions that align with your vision and have the flexibility to balance work and personal life.  

In addition, the demand for travel services is consistently high, particularly in areas with a substantial tourist presence. This creates room for multiple revenue streams, from booking commissions and service fees to custom travel packages and partnerships with hotels and tour operators.

Starting a travel business also helps you build a vast network of contacts in the industry. From clients and suppliers to fellow travel professionals, these relationships can lead to collaborations, partnerships and new business opportunities.

Challenges of running a travel business:

Despite its numerous benefits, the travel sector still has its challenges. One issue is that the industry is susceptible to economic conditions. Economic downturns, recessions and fluctuations in currency exchange rates can significantly impact travelers' spending habits and overall demand for travel services.

Moreover, coordinating travel logistics, managing bookings and making sure customers have a seamless experience can be challenging if you lack the necessary skills and tools. Any mismanagement can lead to customer dissatisfaction and reputational damage. However, online booking systems and scheduling software  can help you manage these aspects effectively.

How profitable is a travel business?

The profit margins for travel businesses in the U.S. vary widely based on the type of business, target market and business model. Here’s a general breakdown:

Online travel agencies (OTAs) : These businesses typically have 10% to 20% profit margins.

Tour operators:  With profit margins around 15% to 30% , tour operators benefit from package deals and markups on activities.

Hotels and resorts:  Profit margins for these can vary greatly, averaging around 3% to 8% . However, luxury travel properties can achieve much higher margins thanks to their premium services and amenities.

Airlines:  Profit margins are often slim, around 2% to 5% , due to high operational costs and fuel dependency.

Cruise lines:  Profit margins can be higher, reaching 10% to 15% , due to their all-inclusive nature and the enticing onboard spending options available to passengers.

Note:  These are just a general guide to profit margins, so make sure to research them before starting any type of business.

Looking to start a travel business in a specific state?

Licensing laws around travel can get complicated pretty fast. The good news is that a travel agent license is not required at the federal level. However, things change at the state level. While many states don't demand special licensing, a few have specific requirements like the SOT regulations.

States that require an SOT license include California , Florida , Hawaii  and Washington . If your agency operates in or sells to clients in these states, you’ll need to register as a seller of travel.

Other states with regulations worth noting include:

Delaware:  Requires an occupational license  for agencies based in the state.

Illinois: The Illinois Travel Promotion Consumer Protection  states that agencies must establish a trust account if they accept client payments unless they meet specific insurance and surety bond requirements.

Louisiana:  Imposes a licensing fee based on gross sales  for retail travel agencies (storefronts). Home-based travel agencies are exempt.

Massachusetts:  Has specific rules  for travel agencies, detailed in a state document.

New York:  Enforces the Truth in Travel Act , which includes specific disclosure requirements for travel agencies.

No matter where you're starting your travel business, be sure to keep these tips in mind:

Stay updated with local and federal regulations, as laws can change.

Get professional liability insurance to protect your business and meet any state-required consumer protections.

Consult a legal professional or a travel advisor who knows the law inside out. They can offer specific advice that can help you avoid pitfalls.

If you're an independent travel agent, partner with a host agency and use their seller of travel number to reduce expenses and administrative burden.

How to start a travel business FAQ

How much money. doi need to start a travel business.

The amount of money you need to start a travel business can vary widely depending on several factors. These include the scale and scope of your operations, business model and location. For example, a mid-scale travel agency in the U.S. can cost you $44,000 to $155,000  to start. But it may be as little as $10,000 if you want to operate from home.

Is starting a travel business worth it?

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35+ creative travels and tour ideas for your tourism business

By Kevin Tjoe — 7 Feb 2022

business ideas   customer experience   marketing

Updated August 2023 – Are you weary of the monotonous 9 to 5 routine or feeling confined to your desk on a glorious day? Whether you’re aiming to break free from the grind or seeking to elevate your tourism business to new heights, the realm of possibilities awaits. Within the vast expanse of the tourism industry lies the canvas for an incredible business venture. It’s not just about forging a lucrative business, but about channeling your passion into a travel-related venture that resonates with your know-how and aspirations.

Amidst this landscape of opportunities, the spark of a great business idea can set the stage for crafting a truly profitable business. If you’re prepared to infuse your love for experiences with strategic thinking, get ready to unveil over 35 exciting tours and travel business ideas in our latest compilation. Your journey toward a rewarding and unforgettable business experience begins here.

Getting into the tour operator industry

The tourism industry is such a rewarding one to work in. As a tour or activity operator, you can spend your days with great people, share your special part of the world and even raise awareness of important cultural or environmental values.

Of course, even if you don’t directly run tours and activities there are many different ways to build an amazing career in tourism. You could run a travel-related business. For example, if you’re a travel photographer, you could run your own travel photography business. Some other type of business ideas are souvenir shops, hiking gear rentals, running a travel blog or becoming a travel blogger, or even providing catering for tour and activity operators.

Staying open-minded will help you find your ideal niche in the industry and help you achieve your goal of becoming an entrepreneur within the tourism space!

5 tourism business ideas to get started with

When you offer travel tours, you’re offering an enjoyable journey of some kindled by an experienced guide. Some of the hottest tours and travels business ideas right now include:

• Walking tours and bike tours
• Snorkeling tours
• Tours that take into account growing wine and food tourism trends , such as Hideaway Private Tours , Black Swan Tours , Darwin Gourmet Tours , and Mullarkey Tours
• Ghost or haunted location tours
• Scenic guided tours, such as Italy Pass Tours , Wineglass Bay Discovery Tours, Meteora Thrones , and Bruny Island Safari

There may also be a gap in your local area for a niche tour guide business. For example: if your hometown was the birthplace of a famous musician or even a centuries-old famous cuisine, there could be a perfect opportunity to tap into that interest!

Keep in mind there are two big growth areas to consider when it comes to offering tours for the modern traveler:

• Sustainable and ecotourism, because guests increasingly want to minimize their environmental impact when traveling. Find out more about proactive steps that sustainable tour operators can take here
• Culturally and socially responsible tours , where guests look for a genuine experience connecting with local people and practices

2. Activities

Tourism activities can encompass a vast array of options from the relaxing to the extreme! These could involve physical activities, connection with natural environments, or even incorporate virtual reality. Unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides are also an option for relaxing activities that involve a thrilling side to them. You could also consider more recent technology that people might be itching to try out, such as jet boarding , flyboarding,  and indoor skydiving . There may also be an opportunity to offer intentionally tech-free experiences – such as a retreat with no mobile reception where people can unwind!

Here are some other popular tourist activity ideas:

• Escape room experiences 
• Glowing art rooms or VR rooms
• Themed corporate retreats  or glamping
• Modern summer camps or school camps
• Survival or bushcraft trips
• Fitness or wellbeing retreats

There are two big notable areas to consider for tour operator activities. Think about:

• Activities that are family and group friendly , which are becoming popular within the travel industry as social restrictions ease.
• Accessibility . Tourism business owners should be actively looking for ways to support equal access so everyone can enjoy their activities – as best as possible for the activity in question.

3. Attractions

As a travel software provider , we can say with certainty that experiential travel is huge right now. Considering that experiential tourist attractions have both local and long-distance appeal for travelers, they offer an impressive amount of opportunities for growing tourism businesses. These can range from heritage attractions and natural formations to cutting-edge art exhibitions.

Here are more relevant ideas for building an attraction that guests will be keen to visit:

• Amusement parks 
• Niche museums and art galleries
• Festivals with amazing settings
• Garden and maze experiences
• Instagram-worthy photo rooms and experiences , such as Selfie Factory or Happy Place
• Magic shows,  such as Gentleman Magician
• Farms, petting zoos , and horse riding such as Sun Valley Mares and Swan Valley Wagon Tours

Nostalgia and retro appeal are also big right now in attractions, with everything from arcade games to Australia’s ‘ big things’ providing popular. Travelers are increasingly looking to explore the road less traveled and find novel experiences. So – even if you’re in a small regional area you could get in on the action by embracing the bizarre, weird, and wonderful!

4. Shuttles

As interstate and international travel resumes, there will be demand for airport transfers, shuttles , and unique transport options to and from accommodation. You might tap into the wedding transportation market, or offer fun journeys for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties. Consider how you’ll separate your shuttle service from the rest with either a unique form of transport, added options like food and drink, or a distinctive driver who adds to the experience. You might consider offering:

• An airport shuttle business
• Traveler shuttles to accommodate tour and travel bookings
• A party bus or ferry
• Specialist pet or luggage delivery
• Unique transport such as tuk-tuks, school buses, or a custom limo 
• Premium shuttle services .

It’s also worth considering the notable events in your area and how people might want to travel to these. Guests may get excited about a festival bus that transports them from the city to the festival site complete with karaoke, as just one example!

5. Charters & equipment hire

Travelers love charter services because they can have a luxurious or far-flung experience without having to buy all the equipment or vehicles themselves! There are numerous forms of rental businesses you could run such as self-driven charters, car rentals, or equipment hire. You could even go a step further by providing an experienced skipper or pilot as part of the product package. Ideas for modern charter businesses include:

• Party yachts for relaxed island days
• Fishing charters 
• Houseboat charters
• Private river cruise charters
• Hovercraft charters
• Kayak,  rafting, small boat hire , or paddle board
• Helicopter or small plane charters

For tour guides looking at how to run a charter boat business , it’s a great idea to promote the destination as well as the charter experience itself as the two go hand in hand.

A great charter experience is almost always about the escape from the everyday. It’s something guests are willing to splurge on, so be sure to consider ways you can elevate the experience. You can achieve this by offering optional extras and added services. If you are wondering how to sell tour packages with your charter service, extra bonuses like drink options, catering, entertainment, and DJs can help to boost your revenue.

6. Luxury vacation operators & Travel agency business

Guests love Luxury Vacations because they are money-rich but time-poor. They want to draw on the experience and expertise of their trusted travel agent or operator to discover the finest travel arrangements, boutique properties & off-the-beaten-track destinations. However, they may not have the time to research the thousands of options available to them. And because they may well only visit these destinations only once in their life and want to be sure they get the greatest possible experience. They’ll want the security of knowing they will be well looked after whilst visiting far-off countries with different languages and customs with which they are not familiar.

A great example of one such Luxury Vacation Operator is  The Luxury Peru Travel Company . Their services provide guests with a chance to discover one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu – in absolute luxury.

Building your tours and travels business ideas in the tour operator industry

If you have a brilliant business idea in mind, then you may be raring to put the wheels in motion. There will be a few things to think about as you build out your business idea, such as finding the best name for your business , developing your business plan , and deciding how you’ll take bookings securely online with real-time availability. One big advantage in the tourism industry is also the ability to partner with resellers , distributors, and other tourism and travel businesses to grow your bookings faster.

Rezdy supports you with both online bookings and a distribution platform  developed specifically for the experiences industry. We’re also here to support you as you start your business – simply register for your free 21-day trial or book a demo with the Rezdy team to see how we can help your business.

You can also explore our Resources section to find industry-specific guides across business operations, marketing, and more, with a range of free ebooks available to help you save time and increase your bookings. If you enjoyed this article – 35+ tours and travels business ideas – then make sure to follow the Rezdy blog . There are a lot of marketing tools and tour operator tips designed with businesses like yours in mind.

Create your business ideas with Rezdy

Enjoy a free 21-day trial to take a look around and see if we are a good fit for your business.

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10+ Best & Profitable Travel Business Ideas [2023]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 07, 2024

Our List of 10+ Best Travel Business Ideas:

Tour guide business, bed and breakfast, concierge service, airport transfer service, group and individual travel planning, travel photography business, cruise agency, adventure travel business, specialty travel agency, incentive travel business.

Imagine this: you're lounging on a sun-kissed beach, tropical drink in hand, all while your bank account keeps growing. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, welcome to the exciting world of travel business! As we look forward to 2023, the opportunities in this sector are not only abundant but also incredibly profitable.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next venture, or a travel enthusiast who wants to turn passion into profit, you're in the right place. We've scoured the globe (virtually, of course!) and hand-picked 10+ of the best and most profitable travel business ideas that are set to take off in 2023.

Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery, inspiration, and potentially, financial freedom. Remember, every great journey begins with a single step. So, buckle up and let's dive into the world of travel entrepreneurship!

A tour guide business is an ideal business opportunity for those who have a deep understanding of the local area and a passion for sharing this knowledge with others. Tour guides offer customised guided tours, often focusing on the attractions, culture, and history of a particular region. This type of business offers many advantages:

• Ability to work flexible hours
• Opportunity to explore your community
• Opportunity to meet interesting people
• A chance to make money from something you love doing
• Opportunities to network with other businesses in the local community.

A bed and breakfast (or B&B) is a type of accommodation with a unique, local appeal. Guests stay in the host’s house, and are typically served breakfast in the morning. It is an ideal business idea for anyone looking to become an entrepreneur in the travel industry, as it provides an intimate service for guests looking for a more homey atmosphere than what a hotel might offer.

• No large-scale service required
• Can be run from home or rental property
• Relatively low start-up costs
• Beloved by travelers, who often come back year after year
• Can create additional income by adding amenities such as local tours or services

Examples of successful businesses:

The travel business industry has many successful companies that provide services to customers both domestically and internationally. Some examples of successful companies in the travel business industry are listed below.

• Marriott International
• TripAdvisor

A Concierge service is a company that provides customers with personal assistance for their everyday needs. This could include errand-running, grocery shopping, pet-sitting, house cleaning, restaurant reservations and other day-to-day services. It is an ideal business idea as it has much potential for growth and can be tailored to the customer’s individual needs. Some advantages of a Concierge service include:

• Reasonable cost: prices can be kept at a minimum by charging high-value customers more than the average customer.
• Flexible hours: With a Concierge service, you will always have time to cater to your clients as you can choose which hours you work.
• Wide range of services: The range of services you offer will depend on your area and the level of expertise needed by customers.
• Add value to other businesses: You can add value to other businesses such as hotels, gyms and real estate agencies by providing them with an extra layer of customer service.

More resources:

An airport transfer service is a business providing transportation services to and from airports. It can be a popular and profitable venture for those looking to enter the market. Airport transfer services offer customers convenience, reliability, and safety when travelling to or from an airport. Some of the benefits of starting an airport transfer service include:

• Flexibility - You can choose your own hours and pick up clients when it fits your schedule.
• Income potential - Charging clients a fee for the use of the service can bring in profitable income.
• No prior investments necessary - You don't need to own a car or have any equipment to start running an airport transfer service.
• Opportunities for growth - With an increasing demand for this type of service, there can be potential for growth.

Group and individual travel planning is an excellent business idea to help people plan their trips. With the right resources and expertise, this could be a great investment of time and money. Some of the benefits of travel planning include:

• Help save money and time when planning a trip
• Understand complex logistics involved with transportation, accommodations, activities, etc.
• Assistance in navigating cultural requirements for different destinations or types of trips
• Provide guidance for special needs travelers or group travelers
• A convenient way to plan an entire trip from start to finish

Related business ideas:

Travel photography is a business focused on capturing memories of people’s trips and vacations. It can involve taking photographs of landscapes, monuments, cityscapes and other places of interest. It can also involve taking photos of people during their travels, such as posing in front of famous sights or experiencing the local culture. There are many reasons why travel photography would make a good business idea:

• It provides a unique service to travelers
• It requires minimal overhead costs
• It has the potential to earn significant income
• It provides an interesting and exciting job
• It provides flexible working hours

A cruise agency is a business that specializes in coordinating and booking cruises for customers. It can provide services such as helping customers select their desired itinerary, accommodation, and other amenities. Cruise agencies have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the growth of the cruise industry, making it a great business idea.

• Advantage of Scale: Cruise agencies can purchase bulk quantities of cruise tickets at wholesale prices, which gives them access to discounts that individual customers cannot get.
• Wide Customer Base: Cruise agencies can offer customized packages to a wide variety of customers, including families, individuals, and groups.
• Investment Portfolio: By offering cruises from various cruise lines, cruise agencies can increase their earnings by diversifying their investment portfolio.
• Expertise: Cruise agencies have access to experienced staff with in-depth knowledge of the cruise industry which allows them to provide customers with better service.

Adventure travel business involves providing travelers with exciting and unique experiences that are usually focused on exploration and discovery. Adventure trips can include activities such as trekking, mountaineering, safaris, white-water rafting, bird watching and other outdoor activities. Such businesses can make a good business idea, as they offer the opportunity to make money while helping people to experience adventure and explore nature.

• Adventure travel businesses are a rapidly growing market due to increased interest in exploring different countries and cultures.
• Adventure trips can be tailored to meet the interests of each traveler, so they can be very cost effective.
• Adventure travel businesses have a wide range of potential customers including backpackers, families, and corporate groups.
• The industry is constantly evolving with new technology and opportunities for travelers
• The business model is highly scalable; companies can quickly ramp up operations to accommodate changing market demand.

A Specialty travel agency is a business that specializes in selling customized, niche travel experiences. These specialized trips can be tailored to a variety of interests and needs - from adventure-filled backpacking trips to luxury vacations. They offer an opportunity for travelers to experience the world in a more unique and individualized way.

• Custom Travel Packages - A specialty travel agency can create unique and tailored packages for any traveler.
• Expert Knowledge - Specialty travel agents know the ins and outs of their area of specialization. They can provide valuable insight into the nuances of each destination.
• VIP Service - Specialty travel agencies often provide exclusive access and advantages not available to regular travelers.
• Cost Savings - By booking through a specialty travel agency, travelers can save money due to the expertise and network of contacts the agency has established.

Incentive travel business is the practice of providing people with rewards for reaching set goals or for promoting certain products or services. Incentive travel packages can be tailored to an individual's needs and can include a range of rewards from free tickets to international trips. Incentive travel is a great business idea because:

• It encourages loyalty and performance within companies
• It increases engagement and productivity
• It strengthens relationships between clients and partners
• It provides unique opportunities to employees and customers alike
• It can be customized to fit any budget

More helpful resources about LLCs:

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

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Top 35 Profitable Travel & Tourism Business Ideas in 2024

• December 31, 2023
• by Editorial Team

Do you want to start a small business in the travel and tourism industry with a small capital investment? If yes, you are in the right place. Read this article to find the most profitable tourism and travel business ideas that can be initiated with limited money.

Hospitality and tourism are vast areas providing different types of services. It includes broadly restaurants, food services, hotels, transportation, photography, business and leisure travel, holiday destinations and activities, camping, and the cruise industry.

The travel & tourism sector has developed into an industry with an annual economic impact of around 6.5 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide. The industry is growing and different types of tourism businesses are evolving. Putting investment in the hospitality and tourism industry is worth considering.

Here we have compiled a list of the most profitable travel and tourism business ideas and opportunities for you to explore.

Best 35 Travel Business Ideas in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry

#1. adventure club.

Initiating an adventure club is an ideal business idea for adventure-loving people. The demand for adventure trips, activities, and adventure sports in general, is growing globally. Prior market research is mandatory to identify the potential niche for your business.

#2. Adventure Tourism

The adventure tourism business is perfect for those aspiring entrepreneurs who own outdoor tourism hobbies with themselves and want to turn this into a profit-making venture. As per geography, there is a huge potential for the adventure tourism business globally. Adventure tourism generally takes place in strange, exotic locations where thrill-seeking travelers always expect unexpected happenings.

Learn More:  How to Start A Profitable Adventure Tourism Business

#3. Airport Shuttle Service

Airport shuttle service is a very profitable business for entrepreneurs living in tour areas. The business is hugely management intensive. You can establish business tie-ups with hotel resorts, tour operators, and travel agencies to get clients.

#4. Airport Arcade Games

This is one of the trending businesses. Apart from children, you will also get teenage and adult users for this service. Customers can spend minutes or hours gaming at the arcade during their waiting time. According to the target demographic, the right selection of games is important.

#5. Allergy Cards

People who travel with allergy issues, often look for allergy cards in the new location where they arrive. You can initiate a business of providing allergy cards in many languages from home too.

#6. Ayurveda Tourism

Ayurveda is a therapy that promises holistic wellness. The natural herbs and oils used in the therapy are of great medicinal value as is said in the Vedic literature on Ayurveda. There is a strong potential for the growth of Ayurveda tourism globally. Ayurveda tourism is one of the most trending travel-related business ideas to start with moderate capital investment.

#7. Bed & Breakfast

Attitude and the personality of the owner play an important role in the bed and breakfast business. Also, the location is important where you are initiating the business. Having spare rooms, this business can be a very good alternative part-time income source.

Learn More:   How to Start A Bed & Breakfast Business

#8. Boutique Hotel

The boutique hotel is considered one of the most profitable hospitality and tourism business ideas. having adequate knowledge and experience is a must. It is extremely important to do a lot of research and develop a detailed business plan to ensure success.

#9. Canoe and Kayak Rentals

If you are living nearby water bodies, initiating canoe and kayak rentals is a wonderful business. In selecting the location, you must take into consideration the ease of access, visibility, parking, and a host of other factors.

#10.Car Rental

For a person living in a strategic place with a high-density population with business centers and entertainment outfits, a car rental business would be a lucrative and profitable venture. The primary job would be to schedule customer reservations and supply the rental car. However, do remember car rental is a capital-intensive business and it needs a lot of research before you go into the business.

Learn More:   How to Start a Car Rental Business 

#11. Coffee Shop

Over the past decade, the coffee shop industry is increasing rapidly. An entrepreneur passionate and talented about coffee can initiate a coffee shop business with substantial capital investment. The coffee shop actually treated as a third place outside of work and home to relax. The coffee shop business is one of the best ways to turn your love for coffee into a profit-making business.

Learn More:  How to Start a Coffee Shop Business

#12. Community Tour Guide

Personal or community tour guide business is trending now. If you are living in an area having a lot of tourist footprints, you might consider starting this business. You can operate the business from home. Other than local classified advertising, you can also get clients from other businesses operating in the travel and hospitality industry.

#13. Corporate Hospitality Event Planning

Corporate hospitality event planning business describes giving service in the process of entertainment in events held by corporate or businesses for their staff, clients, or stakeholders. The profitability of this business largely depends on keeping your clients happy and you can mean it by another term business entertainment.

Learn More:  How to Start Event Planning Business

#14. Double-Decker Bus Tours

Everyone enjoys the ride on a double-decker bus. You can arrange sightseeing tours on a double-decker bus. You must start the business in a busy tourist area. Crafting a proper marketing and sales promotion plan is mandatory to start this business.

#15. Ecotourism

Ecotourism is traveling and visiting new unexplored places that protect the environment and also look after the welfare of the local people residing in that area. This type of tourism is a natural choice for nature lovers who also love adventure travel. The ecotourism   industry makes up 6% of the GDP all over the world.

Learn More:   How to Start a Profitable Ecotourism Business

#16. Hookah Bar Lounge

One needs to learn the operational aspects to run a Hookah Bar Lounge business. A truly passionate entrepreneur can initiate a hookah bar lounge business with strategic planning and substantial capital investment.

Learn More:   How to Start A Profitable Hookah Lounge Business

#17. Houseboat Rental

You can start a houseboat rental business in two ways. One option you can buy a houseboat and start renting. Another option is you can contact the houseboat owners and tie up with them for a business relationship. In this case, you will need to follow the revenue-sharing pricing model.

#18. Conduct Kayak Tours

Do you enjoy kayaking? You can turn your hobby into a part-time profit-making business. Coastal areas are the best location for this type of business. You can offer a kayak tour with some allied services, Such as beginner’s training, lunch, etc.

#19. Medical Tourism

Are you interested in Medical Tourism Business? The medical tourism business is finding the right places with the right medical services for your clients and arranging a hassle-free trip for them. The medical tourism business is alternatively called health tourism and wellness tourism.

Learn More:   How to Start a Profitable Medical Tourism Business

#20. Night Club

Running a nightclub can be a very exciting, luxurious, and lucrative business for aspiring young entrepreneurs. People want to get socialized with others and they are willing to pay to use a gorgeous venue dedicated to the purpose. Success in the nightclub business is very much possible if done properly; it demands dedication and meticulous attention to every detail of your business.

Learn More:   How to Start a Night Club Business

#21. Off-Road Tours

Off-road tours are very popular among young and adventure-loving people. Organizing the off-road tour is a very profitable business, people the location is full of tourist footprints. Generally, off-road tours are offered in half-day or all-day packages to clients.

#22. Travel Photography

Are you good at photography and passionate about taking pictures? A photographer is a professional that focuses on the art of taking photographs with a camera. A photographer generally works in a freelance capacity and is hired for specific jobs by different clients.

Learn More:   How to Start A Profitable Photography Business

#23. Ticketing & Reservation Service

Ticketing and reservation service provides is a small area of operation from a full-fledged tour guide business. The required investment amount is very less. Railway tickets and domestic and international air ticket booking are some of the areas where you can focus.

#24. Tour Guide

Operating a tour guide business demands considerable knowledge of historical information and local culture about the location where you are starting the business. The tour guide business is all about sharing information about places with a group of people in an entertaining way.

Learn More:  How to Start Tour Guide Business

#25. Trade Show Visitor

Many big companies keep trade show visitors to know the current trend and happenings inside the industry. In this business, your primary responsibility is to collect information for clients about their competition exhibiting at the show.

#26. Translation

The translation is fast becoming a highly potential web-based business offering opportunities for making money online. With ever-increasing net connectivity and globalization, knowing and understanding other languages have become extremely vital in keeping pace with the speed of society.

Learn More:   How to Start a Translation Agency Business

#27.  Travel Agency

The travel agency business is among the most popular travel business ideas. It is all about making travel arrangements for travelers. Entering into this business is a great way to start a service-based business. You make money make by helping others visit new places on their holidays or business trip.

Learn More:   How to Start A Profitable Travel Agency

#28. Travel Blog

Are you a passionate traveler? Then you must consider starting a travel blog of your own. You can share the amazing experience of traveling to beautiful places around the globe and making money from the comfort of your home.

Learn More:  How to Start a Blog & Make Money

#29. Vacation Property Rental Agency

If you are living in a high-traffic tourist area, you can consider starting a vacation property rental service business. Your home and the customer service that accompanies it must provide the things your renters want and need in order for you to reach the highest level of profitability through renting.

#30. Water Taxi Service

If you have good boating skills and live nearby water bodies, you can start a water taxi service business of your own. This is one of the most popular tourism business ideas to start with moderate capital investment.

More Business Ideas for Travel Lovers

Here are some more business ideas who love to travel and want to earn money while traveling:

#31. Personal Assistant to Celebrities

The job of a personal assistant of a celebrity is to manage and organize the back end of a star’s life. They play a very important event-planning role whenever a celebrity is on a performing tour.

#32. Travel Vlogging

If you are a travel maniac, running a travel vlog can be a profitable venture. Travel vlogging is essentially informative tour-related videos promoted through social media platforms. There are many successful Travel vloggers one can see on the Youtube platform earning a good income.

#33. Social Media Influencer

A lot of travel companies are looking for social media influencers for promoting their tour programs and products. If you have a good subscriber base on any social media platform , consider a career as a social media influencer.

#34. Public Speaker

If you are a travel-loving person and a good orator, a career in public speaking can be rewarding as well as profitable.

#35. Travel Event Planner

Many customers look for customized package tour programs for hassle-free vacations. If you have good communication skills and knowledge about exotic destinations, travel event planning can be a profitable business to enter.

In conclusion, choosing the right travel business largely will depend on the demand of the local people. We hope this list of selected popular travel business ideas will help you choose the best one.

Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.

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43+ Travel Business Ideas to Start in 2024

Embarking on a journey in the entrepreneurial world often leads to the exciting realm of travel business ideas, where creativity meets opportunity.

This blog post is dedicated to inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike, showcasing a diverse range of innovative concepts in the travel industry. From unique eco-tourism ventures to cutting-edge travel tech startups, the possibilities are endless for those looking to make their mark in this dynamic field.

As we delve into the various facets of travel business ideas, we aim to ignite your passion and equip you with the knowledge to transform your vision into a thriving reality. Let’s explore how these travel business ideas can pave the way for a successful venture in the ever-evolving landscape of travel and tourism.

Travel Business Ideas

1. Boutique Travel Agency

Imagine a travel agency that doesn’t just book trips but crafts unforgettable adventures into the unknown. Boutique travel agencies can specialize in creating journeys to hidden corners of the world, where the maps end and the stories begin.

Picture sending clients to a secluded beach in Thailand, accessible only by a secret path, or to a little-known medieval village in Europe, where they can dine with locals in a centuries-old tavern. It’s all about personalization, turning each trip into a treasure hunt, where travelers uncover mysteries rather than just visit places.

It’s helping your clients create a series of novel-worthy experiences, tailor-made for the story-seeking soul, promising adventures that mainstream travel agencies rarely touch.

2. Eco-Tourism Company

Envision a travel company that’s not just about seeing the world, but saving it.

This Eco-Tourism Company is dedicated to adventures that celebrate and preserve the planet. It’s about waking up in a treehouse in the Amazon, participating in conservation projects with marine biologists in the Great Barrier Reef, or trekking through the Himalayas with eco-friendly gear.

This business is a blend of thrill and responsibility, offering trips that educate travelers about sustainability , involve them in local conservation efforts, and provide authentic experiences that respect the environment. It’s travel with a purpose, where each journey contributes to a greener planet, making it an ideal venture for those passionate about combining their love for travel with environmental stewardship.

3. Luxury Travel Planner

Step into the world of luxury travel, where every journey is an epitome of elegance and exclusivity. This Luxury Travel Planner caters to the elite, crafting bespoke itineraries that redefine opulence.

Imagine arranging private jet tours to the world’s most exotic destinations, exclusive dinners in closed-off historical monuments, or serene yacht cruises along undiscovered coastlines. This business is about indulging the senses and delivering the extraordinary.

Clients could enjoy personal butlers, private chefs, and access to secret locations. It’s a realm where travel is not just a service but an art, and each trip is a masterpiece designed to offer an unparalleled experience in the lap of luxury.

4. Adventure Travel Guide Service

This Adventure Travel Guide Service is for those who believe that life is best lived on the edge. It’s not just about guiding, it’s about inspiring a sense of wonder and bravery.

From navigating the rugged trails of the Andes to diving into the unexplored depths of the Pacific, or witnessing the wild majesty of African safaris, this service turns the world into an exhilarating playground. It’s about creating stories of adventure, where clients rappel down hidden waterfalls, camp under the stars in the Sahara, or kayak through icy fjords.

This business is perfect for those who want to ignite the spirit of adventure in others and turn ordinary trips into journeys of a lifetime.

5. Cultural Immersion Tours

Imagine a travel experience that’s not just about seeing but living a culture. Cultural Immersion Tours are all about diving deep into the heart of a destination’s traditions, cuisine, and daily life.

It’s about more than just visiting; it’s about belonging. Travelers could learn to cook traditional dishes in a local’s kitchen in Italy, participate in ancient festivals in India, or live with a nomadic tribe in Mongolia. This business is about breaking down barriers and building connections, offering travelers a chance to not just see the world, but to be a part of it.

It’s perfect for those who want to create travel experiences that are authentic, heartwarming, and deeply transformative.

6. Travel Consulting Firm

This Travel Consulting Firm is for those who love solving the Rubik’s Cube of complex travel planning. It’s about turning the chaos of multi-destination itineraries, last-minute changes, and unique travel requests into a harmonious symphony. Whether it’s coordinating a round-the-world trip for a solo adventurer, planning an expedition to the Arctic, or organizing a cultural tour across several countries, this firm makes the impossible, possible. It’s a business that thrives on details, creativity, and the joy of crafting the perfect travel experience, no matter how complicated. Ideal for those with a knack for logistics and a passion for creating seamless, stress-free travel experiences for others.

7. Corporate Travel Management

In the world of corporate travel, efficiency, and precision are key. This Corporate Travel Management business is about being the behind-the-scenes hero for businesses, ensuring their travel needs are met with utmost professionalism.

From organizing international conferences to managing travel for corporate retreats, this service is about providing seamless travel solutions for businesses. It involves negotiating with airlines and hotels, managing budgets, and ensuring that each trip aligns with the company’s objectives and policies.

This venture is perfect for those who excel in organization and enjoy the challenge of making business travel smooth, cost-effective, and hassle-free, thereby playing a crucial role in the success of corporate events and meetings.

8. Destination Wedding Planner

Embark on a romantic and lucrative journey as a Destination Wedding Planner, where you turn dream weddings into reality in breathtaking locales around the globe.

Imagine orchestrating a fairytale ceremony on a secluded beach in Bali, a lavish reception in a historic French chateau, or an intimate vow exchange under the Tuscan sun. This business is about weaving love stories with exotic destinations, handling everything from legal paperwork to themed decor, ensuring each couple’s big day is as enchanting as their love story.

It’s perfect for those with a passion for romance, an eye for detail, and a desire to create unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the world’s most stunning destinations.

9. Travel Blogging/Vlogging

Dive into the dynamic world of Travel Blogging/Vlogging, where every trip offers a story to tell and an audience eager to listen.

This venture is about transforming your travel adventures into captivating content, be it through mesmerizing blogs or engaging video diaries. Share the hidden gems of a bustling city, the serene beauty of remote landscapes, or the adrenaline rush of adventure sports. It’s a platform to inspire, inform, and connect with a community of fellow travel enthusiasts.

Ideal for those with a flair for storytelling, a knack for photography or videography, and a zest for exploring the unexplored. Monetize your passion through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and collaborations, turning your travel experiences into a thriving online presence.

10. Travel Photography Service

Turn your passion for photography into a thriving business with a Travel Photography Service. This venture is about capturing the essence of travelers’ journeys, providing them with stunning visual memories of their adventures.

From candid shots on the cobbled streets of Prague to breathtaking landscapes in the Rockies, offer your clients a portfolio of their travels that transcends the ordinary. Cater to honeymooners desiring romantic sunset photos, families wanting memorable holiday portraits, or solo travelers seeking to immortalize their adventures.

This business is perfect for those with a creative eye, technical photography skills, and a love for travel, offering a service that combines artistry with the joy of exploration.

11. Language Immersion Retreats

Create a fusion of travel and education with Language Immersion Retreats, where the thrill of exploration meets the enrichment of learning. These retreats offer travelers the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a new language and culture.

Picture organizing stays in quaint Spanish villages, where participants converse with locals, or in Japanese towns, where they partake in traditional tea ceremonies. It’s about creating an environment where language learning is not confined to classrooms but is a living, breathing part of daily experiences.

Ideal for language enthusiasts and educators who want to offer a holistic approach to language acquisition, blending travel, cultural immersion, and practical language usage in exciting global destinations.

12. Cruise Planning Service

Set sail into the world of cruise travel with a Cruise Planning Service, where you curate sea voyages that offer more than just a journey.

This business is about crafting the perfect cruise experience for every traveler, from luxury liners traversing the Mediterranean to expedition ships exploring the Arctic. Assist clients in selecting the right cruise based on their preferences, organize on-board activities, and plan excursions at various ports.

It’s a venture that combines the love for the ocean with the joy of travel planning. Ideal for those with a knack for details and a passion for the high seas, offering a service that ensures clients have an unforgettable voyage on the waters of the world.

13. Travel Gear and Accessories Store

Launch a Travel Gear and Accessories Store and become the go-to destination for every traveler’s needs. Picture a store (physical or online) stocked with an array of exciting travel essentials – from ergonomic backpacks and secure luggage to innovative travel gadgets and accessories.

You can offer personalized shopping experiences, where customers find not just products, but solutions for their travel challenges. Host travel-themed events, product demos, and workshops. For the entrepreneur with a knack for retail and a passion for travel, this business is an opportunity to create a community hub that equips and inspires travelers for their next adventure.

14. Travel App Development

Dive into the digital world with a Travel App Development business, where technology meets exploration. Develop cutting-edge apps that solve real travel problems – be it a comprehensive itinerary planner, a real-time language translator, or a local guide in your pocket.

Your app could be the next essential tool in every traveler’s arsenal, helping them navigate foreign lands, connect with cultures, and make travel smoother. This venture is perfect for the tech-savvy entrepreneur who loves travel and wants to bring innovative solutions to the market.

15. Volunteer Travel Organization

Create meaningful journeys with a Volunteer Travel Organization, where travel meets purpose and global impact. This business is about crafting experiences that allow travelers to contribute to communities around the world – teaching in remote schools, conserving wildlife, or building homes.

It’s not just about seeing the world, but making a difference in it. This venture is ideal for those who are passionate about social causes and want to offer travel experiences that change lives, both for the traveler and the host community. Through ethical and sustainable practices, your organization can create a bridge between adventure and altruism, offering journeys that truly matter.

16. Travel Insurance Agency

In a world full of uncertainties, start a Travel Insurance Agency that gives travelers peace of mind. This business is about providing a safety net, offering various travel insurance products tailored to different travel needs – from trip cancellations and medical emergencies to lost luggage and adventure sports coverage.

Educate and assist travelers in choosing the right insurance for their journey, ensuring they’re covered no matter where their adventures take them. For the entrepreneur who values security and customer care, this venture is an opportunity to become a trusted advisor, making travel safer and worry-free for everyone.

17. Airport Shuttle Service

Rev up a business with an Airport Shuttle Service, ensuring travelers start and end their journeys on a high note. This service isn’t just about transportation; it’s about offering convenience, comfort, and reliability.

From luxury private cars to cost-effective shared rides, your fleet could cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Implement a user-friendly booking system, real-time tracking, and exceptional customer service to stand out. If you have a knack for logistics and a drive for customer satisfaction, this business can be your route to success in the travel industry.

18. Travel Book Publishing

Embark on a literary adventure with a travel book publishing business

Bring the world to readers through captivating travel guides, inspiring memoirs, and enchanting travel novels. This venture is about more than just books; it’s about stories that transport readers to distant lands, cultures, and experiences. Collaborate with seasoned travelers, writers, and photographers to create publications that are both informative and engaging.

Whether it’s a detailed guide to hidden gems or a memoir that captures the essence of a journey, this writing gig could be the gateway to global exploration for armchair travelers and avid explorers alike.

19. Travel Influencer Marketing Agency

In the age of social media, launch a Travel Influencer Marketing Agency and bridge the gap between brands and storytellers. This business is about leveraging the power of influence and travel narratives to create compelling marketing campaigns.

Connect travel brands with influencers who can authentically showcase their products or destinations to engaged audiences. This venture is perfect for those with a flair for marketing and a pulse on the latest social media trends. By creating partnerships that resonate and inspire, your agency can shape the way people see and experience travel.

20. Culinary Tour Company

Stir up a flavorful business with a Culinary Tour Company, where travel is a feast for the senses. Specialize in tours that explore the world through its flavors – from street food adventures in Asia to gourmet tours in Europe’s culinary capitals.

Offer food experiences that include cooking classes with local chefs, visits to vineyards and markets, and dining at hidden gastronomic gems. This venture is perfect for those with a passion for food and travel, offering a taste of culture and tradition in every bite. It’s not just a tour; it’s a journey for the taste buds, creating delicious memories that last a lifetime.

21. Wellness and Spa Retreat Planner

Create sanctuaries around the world with a Wellness and Spa Retreat Planner business.

This venture is about designing retreats that offer tranquility and rejuvenation – yoga retreats in Bali, meditation getaways in the Himalayas, or wellness resorts in the Alps. It’s about creating spaces where travelers can unwind, reconnect with themselves, and find balance.

Tailor experiences that cater to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, collaborating with experts in various wellness practices. For those who believe in the power of relaxation and rejuvenation, this business can be a pathway to enriching lives through transformative travel experiences.

22. Historical Tours Company

Step back in time with a Historical Tours Company, where history comes alive with every step. Specialize in guided tours that illuminate the past – walking through the ruins of ancient civilizations, exploring medieval castles, or tracing the paths of historical events.

Employ knowledgeable guides who can weave fascinating stories and bring historical sites to life. This business is perfect for history buffs and storytellers who can turn a simple excursion into a time-traveling adventure. It’s about making history accessible and engaging, offering travelers a deeper understanding of the places they visit and the stories that shaped them.

23. Travel Subscription Box Service

Imagine a service that brings the excitement of travel to your doorstep every month. A Travel Subscription Box Service does just that, delivering a curated selection of travel-themed items from around the world.

Each month (or quarter’s) subscription box could be a surprise mix of handcrafted souvenirs, gourmet snacks, cultural artifacts, and handy travel gadgets, themed around a different country or city each month.

It’s like receiving a mini adventure in a box, perfect for travel enthusiasts craving a taste of the world. This business is not about products, it’s about crafting an experience that ignites wanderlust and keeps the spirit of travel alive, even when at home.

24. Custom Itinerary Planning Service

Create bespoke travel experiences with a Custom Itinerary Planning Service.

This business caters to travelers seeking personalized journeys, tailored to their interests, style, and pace. Whether it’s a family looking for child-friendly activities in Europe, a couple planning a romantic getaway in Bali, or a solo traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in South America, your service crafts itineraries that are as unique as your clients.

This venture is perfect for those with extensive travel knowledge and a passion for detail, offering a service that transforms ordinary trips into extraordinary, tailor-made experiences.

25. Luggage Storage Network

Solve a common traveler’s dilemma with a Luggage Storage Network. This business provides convenient, secure storage solutions for travelers needing to stow their bags for a few hours or days.

Establish a network of storage locations in key tourist areas, transport hubs, and city centers, offering travelers the freedom to explore without the burden of heavy luggage.

This venture is ideal for entrepreneurs who understand the logistics of storage and the needs of modern travelers, offering a service that adds ease and mobility to the travel experience.

26. Travel-Themed Event Planning

Bring the world to special occasions with a Travel-Themed Event Planning business. Specialize in creating immersive, travel-inspired events – from a Moroccan-themed birthday bash to a Parisian-style corporate event.

Use authentic decor, cuisine, and entertainment to transport guests to different destinations around the globe. This business is perfect for creative minds who love both event planning and the allure of travel, offering a service that turns ordinary events into extraordinary global experiences.

27. Digital Nomad Resource Center

Cater to the growing tribe of digital nomads with a Digital Nomad Resource Center. This venture offers a suite of services tailored to the needs of remote workers who travel the world.

From co-working spaces and high-speed internet to networking events and accommodation advice, provide a one-stop solution for nomads to work and thrive in new cities. This business is ideal for those who understand the challenges and joys of remote work and travel, offering a service that supports the nomadic lifestyle.

28. Travel Coach and Advisor

Become a guiding light for hesitant travelers with a Travel Coach and Advisor business. Offer personalized coaching and advice for planning trips, overcoming travel anxieties, and making the most of their journeys.

Whether it’s helping a first-time traveler plan their itinerary, advising on budget travel hacks, or providing tips for solo travel, your service can empower clients to explore the world confidently. This venture is perfect for seasoned travelers with a passion for mentoring and a desire to help others experience the joys of travel.

29. Accessible Travel Agency

Launch an accessible travel agency and open the world of travel to everyone. This business specializes in organizing trips for people with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and comfort in all aspects of travel.

From wheelchair-accessible accommodations and transportation to customized tours and activities, provide a service that makes travel hassle-free and enjoyable for all. This venture is ideal for those who are passionate about inclusivity and want to make a real difference in the travel industry.

30. Travel Rewards Consulting

Turn travel hacking into a professional service with a travel rewards consulting business. Help clients maximize their travel points and rewards to unlock incredible travel experiences. Offer advice on the best credit cards for travel points, tips on earning and redeeming rewards, and strategies for upgrading travel experiences. This business is perfect for those who have mastered the art of travel rewards and want to share their expertise, helping others travel smarter and cheaper.

31. Local Tour Guide Matching Service

Bridge the gap between travelers and authentic local experiences with a Local Tour Guide Matching Service. This platform connects travelers with local guides for personalized tours, offering an insider’s view of the destination.

Whether it’s a street food tour in Bangkok, a historical walk through Rome, or a hiking adventure in the Rockies, your service pairs travelers with knowledgeable locals. This business is ideal for those who believe in the power of local experiences and want to create a more personalized and immersive travel experience.

32. Travel Content Writing Service

Channel your passion for travel and writing into a travel writing service. Provide high-quality, engaging content for travel websites, blogs, and publications. From destination guides and travel tips to inspiring travel stories and reviews, offer a range of content services that cater to the travel industry’s needs.

This business is perfect for skilled writers with a knack for capturing the essence of travel in words, helping travel brands and platforms share their stories with the world.

33. Travel Photography Workshops

Combine the art of photography with the thrill of travel in a Travel Photography Workshop business. Host workshops in exotic locations around the world, teaching photography skills to enthusiasts and professionals.

Whether it’s capturing the Northern Lights in Iceland, wildlife in the Serengeti, or street life in Havana, offer a learning experience that’s as adventurous as it is educational. This business is ideal for skilled photographers with a passion for teaching and a love for travel, offering a service that blends education with unforgettable travel experiences.

34. Youth and Student Travel Agency

Launch a Youth and Student Travel Agency that turns the world into a classroom without walls.

Specialize in crafting travel experiences for the younger generation, focusing on budget-friendly, adventurous, and educational trips. From gap year explorations and study abroad programs to spring break adventures and cultural immersion tours, offer packages that cater to the wanderlust and budget constraints of young travelers.

This business is about more than just travel; it’s about shaping global citizens through experiences that are both fun and enriching. It’s perfect for those who understand the unique needs and aspirations of young travelers and can create journeys that are as exciting as they are enlightening.

35. Senior Travel Club

Create a senior travel club that opens a world of adventure for older adults. This club organizes trips and activities tailored to the interests and needs of seniors, offering everything from leisurely cultural tours to more active adventures, all with a focus on comfort, safety, and social interaction.

Imagine taking groups to witness the cherry blossoms in Japan, explore the ancient ruins of Greece, or enjoy a river cruise through the heart of Europe. This business is about creating a community of like-minded seniors who share a love for travel and adventure, offering them opportunities to explore the world in their golden years.

35. Pet-Friendly Travel Planning

You can start a pet-friendly travel service that helps pet owners explore the world with their furry companions. This business focuses on arranging travel itineraries that accommodate pets, from pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants to activities that both humans and animals can enjoy.

Offer advice on pet travel regulations, health care, and insurance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for pet owners. This pet business venture is perfect for those who understand the bond between pets and their owners and can provide solutions that cater to the unique challenges of traveling with furry friends.

36. Travel-Themed Merchandise Store

Open a Travel-Themed Merchandise Store that brings the spirit of adventure to everyday life. Sell a range of travel-inspired products, from clothing and accessories featuring maps and iconic landmarks to travel journals, globes, and decor. Create a space (physical or online) where travel enthusiasts can find items that reflect their passion for exploration and adventure. This business is ideal for those who have a flair for retail and design and can create products that resonate with the wanderlust in everyone.

37. Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

Dive into the future of travel with a Virtual Reality Travel Experience business. Offer immersive VR experiences that transport users to destinations around the globe, all from the comfort of their home. From walking the streets of Paris to exploring the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, provide a virtual escape for those who cannot travel physically. This venture is perfect for tech-savvy entrepreneurs who want to explore the intersection of technology and travel, offering an innovative way to experience the world.

38. Travel Safety Training Courses

Establish a business that offers Travel Safety Training Courses, equipping travelers with the knowledge and skills to stay safe while exploring the world. Offer courses on various aspects of travel safety, from dealing with health emergencies and natural disasters to navigating unfamiliar cities and avoiding common travel scams. This venture is ideal for those with a background in safety, security, or travel, and a desire to empower travelers with the confidence to handle any situation they might encounter on their journeys.

39. Airbnb Management Service

Start an Airbnb Management Service for property owners who want to rent out their spaces but don’t have the time or expertise to manage them. Handle everything from creating listings and managing bookings to cleaning, maintenance, and guest communication. Offer a hassle-free solution for property owners and a high-quality experience for guests. This business is perfect for those with a knack for hospitality and property management, and a desire to provide exceptional stay experiences for travelers.

40. Travel Concierge Service

Create a Travel Concierge Service that offers bespoke travel assistance, catering to the needs of discerning travelers. Provide services like itinerary planning, booking reservations, arranging transportation, and securing access to exclusive events. This business is about offering a personalized touch, ensuring that every aspect of the client’s trip is seamless and luxurious. Ideal for those with a network in the travel industry and a passion for delivering high-end, customized service.

41. Group Travel Organizer

Develop a Group Travel Organizer business that specializes in coordinating travel for groups, whether it’s for family reunions, corporate retreats, or special interest groups. Offer end-to-end services, from selecting destinations and arranging accommodations to organizing activities and transportation. This venture is perfect for those who excel in logistics and enjoy creating experiences that bring people together, making group travel enjoyable and stress-free.

41. Travel-Themed Subscription Service

Launch a Travel-Themed Subscription Service that delivers a monthly dose of travel inspiration through digital content. Curate and create travel guides, virtual tours, podcasts, and articles that explore different cultures, destinations, and travel tips. This business is ideal for those with a passion for storytelling and digital content creation, offering subscribers a way to travel the world from their screens.

42. Travel Nurse Staffing Agency

Start a Travel Nurse Staffing Agency, connecting healthcare professionals with short-term assignments in different locations. This business meets the demand for temporary nursing staff in various healthcare settings while offering nurses the opportunity to travel and work in different regions. Ideal for those with a background in healthcare and recruitment, this venture can make a significant impact in the healthcare industry while fulfilling the wanderlust of nursing professionals.

43. Sustainable Travel Consultancy

Establish a Sustainable Travel Consultancy that advises travel companies and tourists on eco-friendly practices. Offer guidance on minimizing environmental impact, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainable tourism activities. This business is perfect for those passionate about environmental conservation and responsible travel, aiming to make a positive impact in the travel industry.

Final Thoughts: Travel Business Ideas

Whether your passion lies in creating immersive cultural experiences, developing user-friendly travel apps, or launching eco-friendly tours, there’s a travel business idea niche for every aspiring entrepreneur in this vibrant sector.

Remember, the key to success in the world of travel is a blend of creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of your audience’s needs. We hope this blog post has sparked your imagination and provided valuable insights into the exciting possibilities that travel business ideas offer.

Now, it’s your turn to take these ideas, tailor them to your unique vision, and embark on your own entrepreneurial journey in the world of travel.

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20 Best Travel Business ideas You Can Start

Travel is a great way to get away from it all and relax. So many countries around the world benefit from regular tourism, in terms of their economy, keeping history alive, and sharing traditions with newcomers. There are many unique ways to explore the world, that there is a huge market for travel business.

There are plenty of ways to start a travel business. For example, you can open a bed and breakfast or rent out a room in your home. Or you can become a tour guide or cruise line captain. There are also opportunities to earn extra income through affiliate marketing.

Because the travel industry encompasses a lot of different areas, there are so many ways that you can set up a business which fits in with your skill set and experience. Travel businesses include hotels, tours, cruises, airlines, car rentals, and complete vacation packages.

The great thing about setting up your own business is that you can tap into your own background knowledge and stick to areas of interest for you. This could be entertainment, accommodation, or even social media representation.

If you’re thinking about starting a travel business, here are 20 travel business ideas to inspire you as well as show you how many business opportunities there really are. If you want to start a travel business, you’ll need to consider several things before launching your venture. That is why this guide aims to encompass all the small details as well as bigger picture opportunities for your travel business.

The Travel Industry

Firstly, it is worth noting that the travel industry is arguably the largest industry in the world. This is because there are new trends or changes in tourist behavior which shake things up, and keep businesses on their toes. There are so many types of vacations, that it’s no wonder why the travel industry are kept on their toes every year. Tourists want something new and exciting, which is why this industry continues to blossom.

The Six Segments of the Travel Industry

Because there is so much variation within the industry, there are six main segments which business have been known to base their concept off. It could be worth using these for inspiration to see how you can take your existing experience and apply it to a travel business.

The travel industry can be divided into tourist boards, travel services, accommodation, conferences and events, attractions and tourism services. Depending on the type of lifestyle you lead and how much travel you want to do yourself, it could be worth taking a closer look into the types of travel businesses within these segments, that you could set up.

Some of the most popular areas that travel businesses function in are providing a particular service to tourists and travelers like hotels or entertainment. On the other hand, you could set up a global enterprise, which allows you to spend more time traveling.

These businesses typically take a little more work to set up and begin making profits, but it can be highly rewarding to work towards this lifestyle. Not only that, but it will be easier to reach a higher number of people who are interested in what your business has to offer.

20 Best Travel Business ideas

1. Travel Blogger

One of the most popular businesses involved becoming a travel blogger. Because this is a slightly less traditional path to take, the steps are a little less clear-cut when it comes to generating a profit and setting up a business as a travel blogger.

However, it is recommended that you begin by exploring your local area and places that you have always wanted to travel to, and recording your experience online. Most people enjoy writing their own blogs about how they found a certain destination or experience, and it can be a great way to share your thoughts with like-minded people.

Most people set up travel blogs online where they can use it like a journal when they are visiting somewhere new, whereas others will make small notes and write up their experience once they return home. It could be a great way to spend more time traveling if that is a goal of yours.

2. Occasion/Travel Photographer

Wedding photographers earn a great deal of money for a single day, but it is hard work. If you have experience capturing weddings or taking portraits for someone, you could set up a business for travel photography or international weddings.

This could go a long way for a travel business, especially if you are offering occasion package deals such as a reduced price for multiple days consecutively. One of the most important things that is definitely worth investing in is high quality cameras and the right equipment.

Make sure you have some basic skills and experience before setting up this type of business, because there is a reason why wedding photography is such an expensive industry. You could use travel photographs that you have taken to accompany your blog posts, submit them online, or build your own social media presence. This can help you build a professional profile for yourself as a respected travel photography business.

3. Translator

For those who are more experienced with a particular language or multiple different languages, it could be worth setting up a business as a translator. Depending on your level of expertise and the versatility of the languages that you are able to translate, you can make a business that works for you.

You could advertise yourself on an international scale, or focus on a particular area where you think your skills would be best used. Translators are always in high demand, and it is worth setting up a business for yourself if this is something that you are passionate about.

Of course, the main drawback is that you will need to be able to speak at least two languages sufficiently in order to earn an income as a translator. This can be a little challenging if you are less familiar with new languages, so it isn’t always the best option for everyone.

4. Independent Travel Agency

It may seem a little unusual considering the downfall of many large travel companies, but there will always be a market for travel agencies. For this reason, it could be exciting to start your own enterprise and begin offering clients and tourists a series of vacation packages.

It could be worth comparing some best rated deals and other companies from the area to figure out estimated prices and different types of accommodations, as well as flights. Consider what kind of target audience you want to reach, and design package deals that you think are the most suitable.

For example, if you want to offer child-friendly vacations to families, or more affordable options with a little more flexibility. Other options include creating more local eco-friendly travel options. This is a great travel business idea for those who are more experienced with organizing large events and co-ordinating different services at the same time.

You could set up a small office space or storefront where people can stop by and ask for advice. Alternatively, you could benefit from the online world and work remotely from wherever you are in the world.

5. Travel Vlogger

While most people document their traveling experiences using written blogs, video-based media is becoming more popular. Some people prefer to film themselves using small cameras when they are traveling. This can create a more immersive experience for followers and their audience. The concept of video-based blogs is becoming more popular, and it can allow people to make a living in this way if it is taken seriously.

Becoming a travel vlogger typically goes hand-in-hand with social media. This is because it is usually the best way to reach your target audience, and the type of individuals that will watch your videos. It is a great way to build your online presence and boost your business as a travel vlogger.

6. Vacation Planner

Another travel business idea that could work with your skill set is to become a vacation planner. This is ideal for someone who wants to share their knowledge about a particular area and encourage people to explore unique destinations.

This can be a little challenging to start up if you have less experience traveling to certain areas, but it is nothing that the internet can’t help with. Consider setting up your own business as a vacation planner if you are a highly organized individual who likes to fill someone’s schedule.

Remember that there are many things that need to be considered when planning somebody else’s vacation. This includes whether they want to be more active or spend more time relaxing, and what type of food or hobbies they enjoy the most.

It is worth making sure that you have a great system in place for organizing certain activities, events, and scheduling appointments. This is highly needed when it comes to working as a vacation planner, as somebody else’s enjoyment is your responsibility.

7. Bike Tour Services

If you have more experience with bikes and renting or riding bikes on different terrains, then you could set up a bike tour service in a particular area where tourists spend more time. It could be beneficial to rent a storefront or a stand for people to visit and see what type of tours you are providing.

Take a closer look at the local attractions and begin creating bike routes which are suitable for beginners. You could then create slightly longer or shorter routes, with more challenging options. It could also be useful to set up a rental service for your bikes, if people want to explore an area at their own pace.

Because of this, it is useful that you have at least five bicycles which are good for beginners on hand at any time. They should be stable and comfortable, in order to encourage people to get the most out of their experience. You will also need to think about the price range that is realistic for bike tour services, and consider offering group package deals for a particular day or size of group.

It is also worth finding a reliable weather prediction app so that you can cancel or avoid booking certain days when heavy rainfall is expected. In addition, you should try to provide child seats which can be attached to the back of a bike when needed. Alternatively, customers can be shown to a daycare center or local childcare service if necessary.

8. Travel Consultant

This is slightly different to a vacation planner and a travel agent, as travel consultants are usually in charge of more complex issues. They need to figure out solutions to unique situations and make sure that everything goes according to plan.

You could become a travel consultant if you want to make sure that people have the best experience possible when they are travelling or on vacation. Complex issues that are normally handled by a travel consultant include ironing out logistical concerns with business trips, or new parents who are traveling to a foreign country for adoption purposes.

Because the role of a travel consultant is naturally varied and relatively complex, you will be more immersed in the culture and local environment than other businesses, which would require you to cater for tourists a little more. Working as a travel consultant could be an ideal way to see the world and travel to more unique places.

Because the work is largely international, you could set up your own business specializing in complex situations and more challenging situations to put yourself and your services as a travel consultant on the map for potential clients.

9. Open Your Own Bed And Breakfast

This is a growing market, and there are more people who are turning their homes, spare buildings on their property, or other locations into bed and breakfasts. It can provide a home away from home for tourists, and does not need a great deal of work on your part.

There are many services which can help you get set up and on the market for visitors, and it is worth considering this as a travel business idea. Even if you are less familiar with this concept, there are plenty of help guides with information about opening your own bed and breakfast.

You can use this as a way to generate more income on a regular basis, or to save up for your next vacation. If travel is your passion, and you want to spend more time exploring new places, you could rent out your home while you are away.

Make sure that your pets, plants, and other necessities are accounted for, and that your personal possessions are safely locked away. If you are thinking about opening your own bed and breakfast, it is important that you are offering regular rates for rooms.

Make sure that guests will have adequate access to bathrooms, and that the breakfast services are also of a high standard. Bed and breakfasts are a lot more personal than hotels, so guests often want this type of service and interaction.

10. Create A Travel App

If your area of expertise lies with developing apps, coding, and programming software, then you could set up a travel business by creating an app. You can create an app to connect travelers with others in the area, or provide useful suggestions for activities and popular places of interest.

Other travel app ideas include translation software, suggestions for common phrases in the native language of a country you are visiting, or showing places to eat or stay overnight that are not fully booked.

The great thing about travel apps is that you do not have to be in a particular country or location to do this. This means that you can create your own travel app from the comfort of your own home, as long as you have a stable internet connection and access to the necessary databases.

You could also connect with other companies when you are setting up your travel app, like websites that find the best deal for hotels, or airline companies. This allows you to generate more popularity and increase the general market for your business.

11. Rent Out Your Property For Vacations

If you have empty rooms in your home, or even entire buildings that aren’t used as frequently, then you could rent out your property for vacations. If you schedule it right, you could host somebody while you are out of town. This can get you a little more money while making sure that your home is occupied at all times.

Not only can this deter unwanted guests, but it allows you to share the joys and peace that your home provides with others. Like the bed and breakfast business, it is important that you lock all of your valuable and personal belongings away somewhere safe, or remove them beforehand.

Of course, you will need to consider pets and plants, which should be moved elsewhere if possible before you leave for your vacation. However, this can be a great way to earn extra cash when you are on vacation.

12. Language Speaker

Being able to speak a country’s language well is a highly valuable skill. Many people make the most out of this by creating their own business offering lessons to children, translation services, and representing someone who does not speak the language.

This is a great way of traveling more while earning a living, because you can act as a guide for people and negotiate certain contracts with local vendors if you are able to generate tourism. Set your travel business around your particular language skills, and consider learning more about the particular uses as well as local colloquialisms which are used in certain areas.

Improving your knowledge of the language and subtle differences that exist between certain regions could also help you to teach tourists about the cultures. This can be a useful way to prevent people from disrespecting certain traditions and avoiding any potential preconceived notions.

13. Glamping Service

This is something that is usually done on a plot of land that you own or rent, and it is much easier to do this locally to you. You can attract tourists to your state by setting up a glamping business. Glamping is known as “glamorous camping”, because it provides a little more luxury than what is typically offered by regular camping.

The accommodation can be as simplistic as a weatherproof hut, a large tent, or even a tree-house. Full beds are normally provided, and guests are typically left to their own devices once they are settled. Glamping sites are normally seen as more high-end camping grounds, with more facilities than you would expect.

14. Pet Sitting Business

Another way that you could start a travel business is to promote pet sitting services. You could offer to take care of people’s pets while they are traveling, or set up a kennel business. This can be a safe place for dogs, cats, and other beloved household pets to stay and play with other animals while their owners are traveling.

While this does not directly involve traveling, you could always use a pet sitting business to save up for trips and build a reputation as a respected business for potential investors in the future.

15. Create An Adventure Club

This is a great option for more adventurous individuals who want to share their enthusiasm and stay active. Because it is a little more focused, it is important to do some market research ahead of time to see if there would be a demand for it. You could choose to focus on climbing walls, long hikes, kayaking, or other high energy sports.

Most adventure clubs are suitable for kids and adults, and it is worth being flexible to suit a range of potential customers. This could make your business a great tourist destination, or allow you to travel around and offer this experience internationally.

If you know someone or a group of people who consider themselves more physically active and enthusiastic about outdoor adventure, you could hire them to work for your business. This allows you to spend more time promoting your brand and expanding your team where necessary.

16. House Sitting Services

You can help people have more peace of mind by taking care of their pets, homes, and plants. Keep things moving while they are traveling and make sure that everything is being taken care of in their homes. This is an ideal solution for people who live in areas of high crime rates, or who are planning a long trip away.

You could keep on top of the laundry, vacuum, offer pet walking, or just keep someone’s home occupied while they are away. Setting up a business as a house sitter is surprisingly easy. The first step is to build your reputation and gain a customer base in the area that you live.

Once you have a reputation, it is worth taking a closer look at the different ways of advertising your business. Think about the type of people you are trying to attract, and how they will be able to reach you when needed. This can be done using social media, email, or over the phone.

It is important that you have a reliable method of scheduling your time before booking people in for house sitting services. This can prevent any possible overlap that can occur when you are setting up a business that has a lot of moving parts at once.

17. Boutique Hotel

Some people are willing to pay extra for a luxurious experience, and it is worth using this to your advantage. Interestingly, boutique hotels are actually considered some of the most profitable in the tourism industry. This is because there is a great deal of work which is needed to ensure that guests receive the best possible experience.

From chefs using only the highest quality ingredients, to sleeping on the most luxurious material, boutique hotels could be great investment opportunities for travel businesses if you have the initial funds necessary.

18. Tour Guide Services

For those who have more knowledge about a particular area, region, or country, you could start a business as a tour guide. Showing people around places and teaching them about certain traditions or ceremonies that took place there is a highly rewarding experience.

Not only that, but it allows people to appreciate the culture of a country without disrespecting anything unknowingly. You do not need to speak the language in order to be a tour guide, but it helps if you learn some basic phrases ahead of time.

Additionally, you could focus your tours on less well-known areas and attractions that are often overlooked by tourists. Take the time to think about how you can offer a unique experience, and learn about the less popular history of a place. Off-the-beaten-path tours are interesting because they tell stories of populations that are long forgotten, and bring these traditions to life.

19. Traveling Event Organizer

Weddings, parties, work events, and other ceremonies are enjoyed around the world. You could set up a business as a traveling event organizer if you are confident managing multiple teams of workers at the same time.

It is a juggling act to keep everything running smoothly and organized, which is why there is such a high demand for traveling event organizers globally. Working as a traveling event organizer is just as easy to do within the local area as it is internationally, which is why you could easily earn a living while traveling.

Think about what type of experience you want to provide clients with, and the type of potential target audience you are targeting. This could be larger scale events with hundreds of guests or more intimate gatherings, organizing business retreats, or weddings specifically.

20. Ecotourism

So many people are becoming more concerned about their carbon footprint, and the impact their actions have on the environment. Because of this, there are considerably more travel businesses that focus on ecotourism coming into the light.

These services show how we can give back to the natural world, and can even teach us ways of protecting the environment. Because the emphasis is on protecting the natural environment, most ecotourism businesses will show you how to explore your local area with a fresh perspective.

Alternative methods of transportation which are kinder to the planet are also encouraged for those who want to travel a little further. These include trains, public transport, and vehicle sharing services. Teaching people about local wildlife and the importance of giving back to the natural world is incredibly rewarding.

Many ecotourism business owners enjoy showing people how our actions have consequences for the natural environment. It is a great way to encourage people to create more sustainable habits and make more responsible choices in the future.

Like we’ve mentioned before, there are so many areas that you can choose to specialize in when it comes to creating your own travel business. This is because the travel industry is an umbrella term which refers to tourist boards, accommodation, transportation, local attractions, and many more aspects.

Because there is such a wide variety of routes you can decide to go down, it is worth finding a specific market that allows you to use your background knowledge and existing skills. For example, if you are fluent in a particular language, then you could offer your services as a translator or local tourist guide.

People who are more physically active and enthusiastic about spending time outdoors could create a business based on an adventure club, which would be ideal for children and adults. Alternatively, you could set up a business through the form of a travel app, which can make the entire experience much more seamless.

The great thing about the travel industry, encompassing so many areas of interest and skill, is that there are so many opportunities to create your own business that helps people who are frequent travelers. Make sure you are finding something that you are passionate about before finding a way to turn it into a service or product that other businesses or tourists can pay for when they are traveling.

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11 Business Ideas for Travel Lovers

If you love traveling and want to start a business, these 11 business ideas are for you.

Table of Contents

Do you want to explore the world and be your own boss? Starting your own business doesn’t mean you have to stay in one place. Many businesses in the digital age don’t require a brick-and-mortar shop, and some businesses will even take you to your dream destinations.

Running a business isn’t for the faint of heart, however. If you’re determined to see the world while owning a business, check out these 11 business ideas for people who love to travel. 

Business ideas for travel lovers

1. traveling personal assistant.

Some people, such as politicians and celebrities, require a personal assistant. Personal assistants usually travel with their employer whether they are going on tour, have speaking events or conduct business in other locations.

If organization, time management and problem-solving are your top skills, create your own agency. Personal assistants typically arrange travel and accommodations, manage schedules, run errands and coordinate with other staff members. 

2. Travel blogger

If you love writing and photography, a travel blog could be your ticket to several dream destinations. Bloggers often create helpful guides, explore new cities, take interesting photos, and provide recommendations and tips. Before you take the plunge, however, understand that blogging can be tough and time-consuming. It often takes a couple of years before you make money blogging, but when you do, you’re essentially getting paid to travel the world and write about it.

If writing isn’t your expertise and you’re better with a camera, try being a travel vlogger. With YouTube, vlogging is a lucrative business. Take your business on the road and create videos about traveling the world and visiting the best tourist spots.

3. Social media influencer

If you have a large online following, you can make a steady income through sponsored posts and pictures. Many brands use influencers to advertise their products and encourage followers to buy goods and services.

Some brands will even pay for social media influencers to attend their events or stay at their resorts in exchange for documenting their experience on their social media accounts.

4. Travel agency

People want honest and helpful advice. Travel agents help people plan vacations and trips across the globe. They often have specialties for different countries or niches. If there is a country or city you love to visit, you can make recommendations to others who want to see more of the world.

You can start your own home-based travel agency through either a franchise or non-franchise agency depending on your budget and accreditation. You may need to look into obtaining a certification, and you may need to pay monthly fees if you partner with a host agency.

5. Photographer

Photography is a great skill to have if you want to travel. If you start a photography business, you could travel the world and capture its beauty with your camera. You could sell these photos to publications or as art. You could also become skilled at a specific type of photography, such as candid portraits, family photography or wedding photography. People need a skilled photographer at their destination wedding, and you could be just the person for the job.

6. Public speaker

Do you have expertise in your field and great communication skills? If so, you could become a public speaker. Speakers often travel across the country or even the world to spread their message and inspire millions. These individuals also have other streams of income, such as being a social media influencer, selling books or creating a blog about their expertise.

7. Traveling event planner

Event planners organize corporate and professional events and meetings. They typically arrange catering, location selection, travel accommodations and more. If you have networking, organizational and time-management skills, you could travel the world as an event planner. Event planning worldwide could open up even more travel opportunities and larger-scale events in the long term.

8. Translator

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, creating a translation business could be a great way to see the world. Translators are needed in almost every industry. They assist international businesses, globe-trotting executives and high-profile individuals by translating documents, books, emails, conversations and more. If you’re not sure where to start, offer to translate menus for restaurants in your area or promotional materials for small businesses.

9. Wedding planner

The job of a wedding planner is to create a stress-free wedding day. Wedding planners must be the calm in the middle of the storm and have a unique ability to soothe nerves when everything doesn’t go as planned.

While a lot of wedding planners have expertise and a network in a specific town or location, many couples opt for a destination wedding. These weddings can typically be even more stressful, because you must figure out how to get guests from point A to point B. You also must make accommodations over the phone rather than in person. However, this is a great opportunity to travel to beautiful places across the globe.

10. Graphic designer

As our world becomes more digital, the demand for website developers and graphic designers is growing. With online tutorials and programs — including Photoshop, WordPress and Illustrator — it’s easier than ever to create your own graphic design business.

Market yourself as a freelance graphic designer, and assist others in creating their own branding, landing pages and promotions — a job you can do from any location. A knowledge of coding (HTML, PHP and CSS) further adds to your expertise so you can help companies develop business websites as well as design them.

11. House sitter

Many people feel better about leaving for vacation with someone staying at their house to take care of their home and pets. In exchange for your services as a house sitter (feeding and walking pets, gathering mail and tending to housework), some people may pay you to stay at their homes while they travel abroad or stay at one of their multiple homes. There are websites and services to get your name out there. You could also create your own house sitter agency, marketing yourself as trustworthy and reputable.

What to know before starting your business

There are some key tips you should know before attempting to start your own business. These are true for both travel-heavy businesses and those that would mostly keep you at home.

It takes more than just passion.

Although starting your own business allows you to do something you love, that’s only a small part of the endeavor. Running your own company involves a lot of responsibilities, many of which won’t be as enjoyable as creating your product or providing your service. However, by creating a business plan , interacting with customers and marketing your company, you’ll have a greater chance of success. 

Activity and growth aren’t the same. 

Just because your company is changing doesn’t necessarily mean you have a growing business . Hiring new employees, adding features to your products and expanding your physical space can help you grow. But unless these steps lead to a notable increase in income, you’ve expanded only your operations; in this situation, new strategies will be necessary for true growth. 

Your numbers are vital.

Data on how much your business is earning and spending are key to your success. Without working benchmarks for how well your business is performing, you might not know how to respond to potential problems until it’s too late. 

You need the right team. 

Unless you can run your business entirely by yourself, you’ll need a good team behind you. You shouldn’t pick just anyone to help you run your company; hiring the wrong employee can cost more money in the long run. Anyone you hire should have similar career goals to your own and dedicate their working hours to your success. 

Make time for fun.

You should always leave room for fun for both yourself and your employees. While getting a business off the ground does require a lot of dedication and effort, it shouldn’t take up your entire life. To perform their best work, most people need time to recharge, and they can’t do that while on the clock. Be mindful of a healthy work-life balance so you and your employees are ready for the next day.

Your own business offers challenges and rewards

Whether you’re starting a business to travel or gain control over your future career, the process isn’t easy. There are plenty of obstacles that can pop up; getting a company off the ground is one of the toughest things you can do. But that makes pulling it off all the more rewarding, and the sooner you get started, the more quickly you can reap the benefits.

Isaiah Atkins and Max Freedman contributed to the writing and research in this article.

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Best 55 Profitable Travel Business Ideas in 2024

• January 27, 2024
• by Next What Business Research Team

India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant tourism industry, presents a plethora of opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the travel business sector. From luxury travel concierge services to adventure sports equipment rental, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we will explore some of the best travel business ideas in India, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of travellers seeking unique and memorable experiences across the country.

What is a Travel Business?

A travel business refers to any enterprise that provides products or services related to travel, tourism, and hospitality. These businesses cater to the needs of travellers by offering a wide range of services, including transportation, accommodation, tour packages, activities, and other related amenities.

Travel businesses can take various forms, such as travel agencies, tour operators, accommodation providers (hotels, resorts, hostels), transportation services (airlines, cruise lines, car rental companies), destination management companies, and online travel agencies (OTAs).

List of 55 Travel Business Ideas

#1. tour operator.

A tour operator business in India involves organizing and conducting tours for travellers to explore various destinations within the country. This business plays a crucial role in facilitating memorable travel experiences by curating itineraries and arranging accommodations, transportation, and activities for tourists.

#2. Travel Agency

Starting a travel agency is one of the most common and lucrative business opportunities in the tourism industry. Broadly, you can start the business in two ways. Either as an independent travel operator or as a franchise partner of a reputed travel company. This business is easy to start. And it doesn’t demand huge capital investment initially.

#3. Adventure Club

You can start an adventure club in any area regardless of your location. Generally, adventure clubs arrange adventure trips, activities, and sports for the members. Apart from the membership fees, you can earn advertising revenue from the different companies who want to promote their products.

#4. Homestay Accommodation

A homestay accommodation business in India involves offering lodging and hospitality services to travellers in a home-like environment. It provides an opportunity for tourists to experience local culture, cuisine, and hospitality while staying with host families or individuals.

#5. Heritage Tour Guide

A heritage tour guide business in India involves offering guided tours to historical and cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and architectural wonders across the country. As a heritage tour guide, you play a crucial role in educating and entertaining tourists about India’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

#6. Wildlife Tour Operator

A wildlife tour operator business in India involves organizing and facilitating guided tours to explore the diverse wildlife and natural habitats across the country. As a wildlife tour operator, you play a vital role in offering curated wildlife experiences, including safaris, birdwatching tours, jungle expeditions, and eco-tourism adventures.

#7. Destination Wedding Planner

#8. cruise tour operator.

A cruise tour operator business in India involves organizing and managing cruise vacations for travellers, offering them memorable experiences aboard luxury cruise ships along India’s coastal regions or international destinations. As a cruise tour operator, you’ll be responsible for planning cruise itineraries, coordinating travel arrangements, and providing exceptional customer service to cruise passengers.

#9. Photography Tour Organizer

A photography tour-organizing business in India involves curating and managing guided tours and workshops for photography enthusiasts, offering them opportunities to explore picturesque destinations and capture stunning images while enhancing their photography skills.

#10. Food Tour Operator

A food tour operator business in India involves organizing guided culinary experiences for locals and tourists, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian cuisine and culture through curated food tours to different regions, cities, and neighbourhoods. You will need to arrange for necessary permits, licenses, and permissions required for conducting food tours in specific locations, adhering to regulatory guidelines and ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.

Read:  Best Food Business Ideas

#11. Pilgrimage Tour Operator

Pilgrimage tourism holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in India, attracting millions of devotees and spiritual seekers from around the world. As a pilgrimage tour operator in India, you have the opportunity to facilitate enriching and spiritually uplifting journeys to revered religious sites across the country. You can consider destinations like Varanasi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Amritsar, Bodh Gaya, Tirupati, Shirdi, Vaishno Devi, and others based on their religious significance and historical importance.

#12. Adventure Sports Equipment Rental

The adventure sports industry is booming worldwide, offering thrilling experiences for enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping activities. As an adventure sports equipment rental business owner, you have the opportunity to cater to this growing market by providing high-quality equipment for various adventure sports and activities. You can rent out adventure sports equipment such as bicycles, kayaks, and camping gear to adventure enthusiasts.

#13. Yoga and Wellness Retreat Organizer

Yoga and wellness retreats have gained immense popularity in recent years as people seek holistic experiences to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. If you have a passion for yoga and wellness practices, starting a yoga and wellness retreat organizer business in India can be a fulfilling venture. You can consider incorporating elements such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, Ayurveda treatments, nature walks, cultural experiences, and healthy organic meals.

Read:   How to Start a Yoga Business

#14. Luxury Travel Concierge Services

Luxury travel concierge services cater to the needs of discerning travelers seeking exclusive and personalized experiences. If you have a passion for luxury travel and a knack for creating unforgettable experiences, starting a luxury travel concierge services business in India can be a rewarding venture.

#15. Airport Game Arcade

If you want to start a small kiosk retail business, then you can consider this opportunity. In most international airports, people spend a lot of time waiting for their next flights. And definitely, they look for an entertainment opportunity to pass the time. Hence, you can earn a lucrative income from an airport game arcade.

#16. Airport Shuttle Service

This is another great opportunity if you live in a location near the airport. You have to provide a fast, easy, cost-effective way to book airport ground transportation. Additionally, you may consider providing two different services also – shuttle and private sedan. However, the business demands moderate capital investment and strategic planning.

#17. Beach Hotel

Beach hotels are very popular worldwide. Generally, these hotels provide hotels, conference rooms, restaurants, and SPA among other services such as business center, laundry, and others. Establishing a beach hotel is a highly cash-intensive business. However, you can earn a lucrative ROI in the long run.

#18. Bed and Breakfast Business

If you want to start and run a home business in the tourism industry, then you can consider this opportunity. Offering bed & breakfast service is a perfect business for housewives, moms, and stay-at-home parents. However, it is important to check the licensing issues in your location before commencing the business.

#19. Boutique Hotel

Boutique hotels are small in size. Typically, they have 10 to 100 rooms. Generally, boutique hotels attract upscale consumers by providing luxury accommodations with a spa, yoga, etc. In addition to that, these hotels come with a specific theme. Before initiating a boutique hotel business, you must craft a business plan with the right marketing strategy.

Read:   Best Hotel Business Ideas

#20. Canoe Rental Service

You can start a canoe rental service on the river or sea. Apart from the canoe, you need to provide skilled manpower for personal assistance. Tourists who want to enjoy the natural scenic beauty of the water are your potential clients in this business. As a value-added service, provide information on camping, hiking, fishing, exploring, or picnicking.

#21. Car Rental

The car rental business allows you to start with a small investment and with a comparative laser risk. However, the industry is highly competitive these days. The globally rising disposable incomes together with enhanced road infrastructure are the key factors for propelling the number of leisure and business trips. Hence, it boosts industry growth.

#22. Charter Helicopter Service

Starting a helicopter company is not everyone’s cup of tea. The business demands a lot of investment towards procuring the copter, licensing, and maintenance. Additionally, the business demands the right marketing strategy and funds for implementing that.

#23. Coffee Shop

If you want to start a food retail business in the travel industry, then you can consider starting a coffee shop . Coffee is one of the most preferred drinks worldwide. However, location is the most important aspect of this business. Apart from the different types of coffee including hot, cold, and espresso, you can offer cookies and snack items also.

#24. Event Planning

Event planning is one of the most lucrative service-based opportunities in the travel industry. As an event planner, your primary responsibility is to design inspiring and innovative corporate events that bring some great ideas to the fore. Like any other service-based business, you need good manpower in this business.

#25. Translator

If you live in a tourist destination or a metro city, you can make good money by offering translation services to people coming from outside. You can also contact tour operators who need translators for package tours outside and incoming guests.

#26. Ecotourism Business

Nowadays, ecotourism or nature tourism is the fastest-growing segment of the travel industry. As people are becoming environmentally conscious, the demand for this type of travel is growing. In ecotourism, tourists enjoy nature without leaving a harmful impact on nature. Additionally, ecotourism can provide a viable economic development alternative for local communities with few other income-generating options.

#27. Ferry Business

A ferry is a merchant’s vessel. It offers regular service through the water with many stops. Ferries form a part of the public transport systems of many waterside cities and islands, allowing direct transit between points at a capital cost much lower than bridges or tunnels. Before initiating a ferry business, you must conduct thorough market research.

#28. Healthy Vending Machine

A healthy vending machine makes healthy food more convenient than junk food. Generally, these machines provide healthy snacks, drinks, and meals. In getting success in this business, the location plays the most crucial role. You must provide quality foods according to the taste of the demographics of that area.

#29. Travel Management Institute

If you want to start an education-based travel business in the tourism industry, then you can consider this opportunity. A full-scale travel management institute provides several courses and programs for the students.

#30. Houseboat Rental Service

Houseboats are some specific boats that are perfect for staying on the water. These are also popular as float houses. If you stay in a tourist destination that has waterbodies, you can consider starting this business. The modern houseboats offer comfortable staying with other amenities and food.

#31. Jet Ski Rental Service

If you stay in a coastal location that attracts people, you can consider starting a jet ski rental service business. The business demands small capital investment and proper business licenses for operation. Additionally, you must conduct thorough research about the potential of that particular location.

#32. Kayak Tours

If you are passionate about kayaking, you can turn your hobby into a successful business venture. First of all, decide where you want to offer kayaking tours. Additionally, learn about the area, wildlife, water currents, trivia, and history of your tour. Before initiating the business, check the licensing issues of your location.

#33. Luggage Delivery Service

Luggage delivery or luggage shipping services are getting huge popularity these days. Generally, these companies provide safe and on-time luggage delivery in exchange for a cheaper rate than flights. In addition to that, they offer different types of services like shipping cycles, bikes, and other household items.

#34. Luggage Store

You can open a luggage store business in two ways. Either as your store with a product line of multi-brand. Otherwise, you can start as a franchise partner of a reputed luggage company. The business is easy to start. Additionally, it is a profitable retail business in the tourism industry.

#35. Medical Tourism

Nowadays, medical tourism is a multi-million dollar industry. And both the developing and developed countries get the benefits of this. However, initiating this type of specialized service-based business demands adequate knowledge about the industry.

#36. Microbrewery

Initiating a microbrewery in a travel destination is a highly lucrative business. Generally, microbreweries serve craft beer with other snacks and food items. The business demands moderate capital investment and strategic planning.

#37. Night Club

A nightclub is an entertainment venue that comes with a bar. Typically, a nightclub consists of a stage for live music, one or more dance floor areas, and a DJ booth, where a DJ plays recorded music. This is a very lucrative opportunity both in metro cities and tourist destinations.

#38. Online Hotel Booking Site

If you want to start an online business in the travel industry, you can consider this opportunity. Currently, numerous options are available for establishing an online platform. However, the business demands intensive research and moderate capital investment.

#39. Online Ticketing Service

This is another great online business in the tourism industry. Typically, online ticketing sites offer online ticket booking facilities for air, train, bus, taxi, shuttle, etc. However, you can include other value-added services like hotel booking.

#40. Photography Business

The photography business is highly related to the travel and tourism industry. Every tourist place has the potential for this business. However, you must have the skill to click quality photos and equipment like a camera, light, etc.

#41. Private Security Service

Private security or escort services are gaining huge popularity in the leisure and tourism industry. And this is perfect for starting this business. With a very small capital investment, you can start this business. However, it is important to understand the market potential in your locality first.

#42. Scooter Rental Business

If you want to start a small localized business, then scooter rental is perfect for you. Even with 3 to 4 scooters, you can start this service. The business demands upfront startup capital investment and proper advertising.

#43. Shuttle Service

Opening a shuttle service company demands a lot of hard work and planning. However, the business is highly lucrative in metro cities and tourist places. First of all, conduct market research and try to understand the exact demand. Finally, determine what type of shuttle service you want to provide.

#44. Speciality Travel

If you want to start and run a travel company that attracts a niche audience, then you can consider this opportunity. There are several options you can consider. The list includes seniors, families with small children, women travelling alone, music lovers, and so on.

#45. Translation Service

This is another great service-based business you can start almost without investment. International tourists often look for this type of service. If you have sound knowledge of several languages, you can consider this business.

#46. Adventure Travel Agency

Adventure travel agencies organize adventure tours. It is a type of niche tourism, involving exploration or travel with a certain degree of risk, and which may require special skills and physical exertion. Generally, teens and youths are the major participants in this type of tour.

#47. Organize Travel Fair

Organizing travel fairs is a very lucrative business. However, the business demands moderate capital investment, proper planning, a good connection with potential prospects, etc. People visit travel fairs to learn several trends in the industry. And companies in the travel-related business spend a lot of money on showcasing their products to the targetted audience.

#48. Travel Insurance Selling

If you are passionate about financial services, then you can consider selling travel insurance. several reputed insurance companies offer insurance facilities for travellers. The first thing that you have to do is get a certified agency code for that company. And then only, you can sell travel insurance to the people who are looking for the same.

#49. Travel Blog

If you have some specific expertise in the travel segment, you can set up a travel blog. Creating a blog is extremely SIMPLE and it does not require any coding skills (HTML). The whole process is somewhat automatic. Irrespective of your age you can start creating a blog.

Read:   How to Start a Blog

#50. Travel Magazine

If you want to start a travel business in the media and publication segment, then start a travel magazine. However, this is not at all an easy business to start. It definitely, demands a lot of planning and capital investment. However, the business is highly profitable and ensures a good return.

#51. Water Taxi Service

The success of the water taxi business hugely depends on the location. So, you must understand the specific market demand in the location where you want to operate the business. This travel business demands small startup capital and hard work.

#52. Transportation Booking Platform

You can develop an online platform for booking transportation services, including flights, trains, buses, and taxis, catering to both domestic and international travellers.

#53. Destination Management Company (DMC)

Consider providing comprehensive destination management services, including itinerary planning, logistics, and on-ground support for corporate and leisure travellers visiting India.

#54. Social Media Influencer

Social media influencers can play a significant role in promoting a travel business in India by creating engaging content that showcases destinations, experiences, and services offered by the business. Influencers with a large and engaged following can help increase brand visibility, attract potential customers, and generate excitement around travel experiences, ultimately driving bookings and revenue for the business.

#55. Transportation Services

The transportation sector within the travel industry offers various opportunities, including providing transportation services such as taxis, rental cars, buses, or specialized vehicles for tours and excursions. Additionally, there are opportunities for businesses that offer shuttle services between popular tourist destinations, airport transfers, and transportation solutions for specific travel segments like adventure tourism or pilgrimage tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of travel business can i start in india.

There are various types of travel businesses you can start in India, including tour operator services, travel agency operations, adventure tourism ventures, destination wedding planning services, transportation services, accommodation services (such as hotels, homestays, or bed and breakfasts), and niche travel experiences like wellness retreats or culinary tours.

Do I need any specific qualifications or certifications to start a travel business in India?

The requirements for qualifications or certifications may vary depending on the type of travel business you plan to start and the regulations in your specific location. For instance, if you intend to offer tour guide services, you may need to acquire relevant certifications or licenses from tourism authorities. It’s advisable to research the specific requirements for your chosen niche and comply with all applicable regulations.

How do I attract customers to my travel business in India?

Attracting customers to your travel business requires a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes building a strong online presence through a website and social media platforms, leveraging digital marketing techniques such as search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing, networking with other businesses in the tourism industry, offering attractive packages or deals, and providing excellent customer service to encourage positive word-of-mouth referrals.

What are the legal and regulatory requirements for starting a travel business in India?

The legal and regulatory requirements for starting a travel business in India may include registering your business with the appropriate government authorities, obtaining necessary licenses or permits (such as a tourism license or a travel agency license), complying with tax regulations, and adhering to consumer protection laws. It’s essential to research and understand the specific legal and regulatory requirements applicable to your type of travel business and location.

What are the key challenges faced by travel businesses in India?

Some of the key challenges faced by travel businesses in India include intense competition, fluctuating demand due to seasonal factors or external events, regulatory complexities, managing customer expectations and preferences, ensuring consistent quality of services, and adapting to technological advancements and changing consumer trends.

What are some emerging trends in the Indian travel industry that I should be aware of?

Some emerging trends in the Indian travel industry include the rise of experiential travel, increased demand for sustainable and responsible tourism practices, the growing popularity of offbeat destinations and niche experiences, the influence of social media and digital platforms on travel decision-making, and the integration of technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) in enhancing customer experiences.

What are some resources or organizations that can provide support and guidance for aspiring travel entrepreneurs in India?

There are several resources and organizations in India that can provide support and guidance for aspiring travel entrepreneurs, including industry associations such as the Travel Agents Association of India ( TAAI) , the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), and the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI). Additionally, government agencies like the Ministry of Tourism and state tourism departments may offer assistance, and there are various training programs and workshops available for skill development and networking opportunities.

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7 Entrepreneurs Who Built Businesses Off Their Love of Travel These founders turned wanderlust into wherewithal and became their own bosses.

By Hayden Field Jul 18, 2018

Quit your job to travel the world -- it's a reality for some and a pipe dream for others. And still others flip the cliché on its head to turn travel -- or the business of travel -- into their jobs.

Click through to meet seven entrepreneurs who successfully started their own travel companies, from a college grad who built a business out of emailing flight deals to his friends to a healthcare industry veteran using data science to revolutionize travel planning. They share how they got started, how they made money and what they wish they'd known at the beginning.

Scott Keyes, founder of Scott’s Cheap Flights

What his company does: Scott's Cheap Flights is an email newsletter with both free and paid subscription options. It alerts subscribers to cheap flight deals in real time and has saved people more than $1,000,000 on travel to date.

How he got his start: "Necessity is the mother of invention," Keyes says. As a recent college graduate working in journalism, he didn't have a lot of money, but he wanted to travel. To make it happen, Keyes started immersing himself in guides, video tutorials and message boards on everything from credit card points to cheap flight hacks. It paid off in 2013 when Keyes found the best deal of his life: a nonstop round-trip flight from New York City to Milan for just $130. He remembers his palms sweating and his hands shaking, but he booked the trip before the deal disappeared -- then jetted off to explore Milan, ski the Alps and visit Lake Como. Upon his return, Keyes was overwhelmed with colleagues asking him if they could let them in on the next deal he found, so he started an email list to keep his friends informed.

For the first 18 months, it wasn't a business at all, "just a hobby that I did for fun in my free time," Keyes says. By summer 2015, that email list had grown large enough that Keyes would need to start paying to send it out via MailChimp. The high level of interest prompted him to gauge how many people would be willing to shell out a couple of bucks for the service. His initial goal was simply to break even on the email-sending cost: Get 25 people to pay $2 a month.

How he turned a profit: The idea of convincing people to pay for something they're used to getting for free concerned Keyes, so he set an extremely low price point at first with $2 a month. The first week was touch-and-go, but after a few weeks, he had made $100. After a few months, he and his co-founder realized that on $2 a month, "credit card fees are eating you alive," Keyes says. At a standard 3 percent plus 30 cents per transaction, card companies were earning double-digit percentages on every transaction. They graduated to a longer-term subscription model to save on fees: $15 for three months, $25 for six months or $39 for one year.

His secret to success: "There's a little bit of an illusion or a story we like to tell ourselves -- that as soon as we get things up to a certain point, then we can stop working as hard," Keyes says. Although that might be true for passive income such as ongoing book sales, it's not true for business. "The more it grows, the bigger it gets, more people are relying on you," Keyes says. It's important to make sure you're passionate about what you're building.

What he wishes he'd known: Don't quit your day job too soon and too early. There's "real romanticism about the tireless entrepreneur who quits their job and liquidates their bank account" because they worked so hard at their dream, Keyes says -- but you don't hear as much about the startups that don't work out. He kept in mind the idea that most startups fail in order to stay humble and to remind himself to be smart financially. It wasn't until six months after Keyes made his first dollar that he stopped taking on freelance writing projects, and although he knew he'd never feel 100 percent ready, he advises gathering enough evidence that there's a market for your product or service before jumping in with both feet.

Top consumer tip: Keyes says one lesser-known tool is the fact that if you book a flight directly with an airline, you're entitled by law to a 24-hour no-fee cancellation period (unless the flight departs within a week). If you find a great deal, you can buy the flight, lock in the price for yourself and then decide whether to keep it. "In general, the better the price is, the shorter [the time] it's going to last," Keyes says.

Related: 10 Ways to Travel the World Without Breaking the Bank

Brian Kelly, founder and CEO of The Points Guy

What his company does: The Points Guy is a travel website covering travel and rewards tips, reviews and more. The site publishes pieces ranging from how to maximize your credit card points to travel guides for different areas.

How he got his start: Kelly's father was a consultant, and work required he travel frequently while his son was growing up. They often bonded over using the miles he stacked up to book family vacations, which sparked Kelly's love of points and their ensuing travel possibilities. After graduating, he snagged a job at Morgan Stanley traveling half the year for recruiting -- meaning he raked in hotel and airline points, earning elite status. Soon after, the financial crisis hit, and although Kelly wasn't laid off, he saw the window for growth opportunities disappearing. But another business idea was brewing. Co-workers often came to his cubicle for help planning trips.

"I was known as "The Points Guy' at work," Kelly says. The first incarnation of his business plan was more "travel agency" -- people would pay Kelly $50 to help them make the most of their points -- but it wasn't scaleable. After friends' suggestions, he bought a blog domain with hopes of making some money on the side. In June 2010, a co-worker's developer husband showed Kelly the Wordpress ropes, set up his site and told him to blog consistently every day. "I didn't know what Wordpress or SEO was," Kelly says. "[This] was never in the realm of possibility when I started out."

How he turned a profit: Kelly balked at putting ads on his site at first because he didn't want to sacrifice quality on his passion project. He finally caved after a friend's urging, then began making $100 or $200 a month. But the real turning point came after the site hit 20,000 readers in February 2011. Chase Bank expressed interested in working with Kelly as an affiliate, offering him the chance to make $150 for every Chase credit card a reader signed up for via one of Kelly's links. He made $5,000 the first month.

Momentum spiked in April 2011, when a feature piece on The Points Guy in The New York Times coincided with one of Kelly's credit card blog posts going viral -- leading to $100,000 in profits that month and him quitting his day job. Kelly later sold the site to Bankrate, which was then purchased by Red Ventures, a company that combines data science with brand marketing. Kelly maintains creative control of the site, and since the sale, The Points Guy has redesigned its app and made changes to how it serves up content.

His secret to success: Kelly says that harnessing the power of social media was what set him apart from the other older blogs focusing on the same topic. It's important to be flexible, and you'll need to evolve with the times and seek out potential in platforms that might not have yet caught on. "You never want to be completely reliant on one platform," Kelly says, who recently put The Points Guy on Flipboard, a news and social network aggregator.

What he wishes he'd known: Kelly was hesitant to hire at first, so he brought people on to perform multiple roles each. But people don't often perform as well at multiple jobs as they do at just one -- even worse, it can lead to burnout or set employees up for failure. Good people management -- and hiring the right people -- is vital to success, Kelly says. "I was in recruiting and came from HR before this, but some of the biggest mistakes I take responsibility for are hiring the wrong people in the wrong roles."

Top consumer tip: Consumers looking to make the most of their points should know that "they're not frequent flier programs anymore -- they're frequent spender programs," Kelly says. In order to be smart with points, you've got to be smart with your finances -- so it's important to work on your credit score and pay off any credit card debt before embarking on a goal such as racking up travel rewards. If you're not paying off cards in full every month, the interest you'll accrue will essentially devalue any rewards you earn. "Understand where you spend your money, and then align your spend with the right credit card or credit cards," Kelly says.

Grace Lee, founder and CEO of WishPoints

What her company does: WishPoints is an app that allows users to record their travel wishes, share where they'd like to go with friends and match up with travelers with similar interests. Airline and hotel companies bid to win users' business by offering discounts for significant numbers of travelers.

How she got her start: Lee's two-decade career in the healthcare industry involved her working with predictive analytics -- and traveling to 85 countries around the world. She'd tack on extra days and trips to every business trip to make the most of her free flights. But the biggest headache for Lee was coordinating plans with friends: figuring out where they wanted to go and what they wanted to do. She realized she'd identified a larger issue in the industry that her data aggregation background could help solve.

While still working at her day job, Lee attended a startup weekend competition in 2012 and pitched her idea, which ended up snagging the highest rating of the event. She worked on the side hustle off and on for a few years, then decided to pursue WishPoints full-time in 2016. Since then, the app has garnered more than 3 million users.

How she turned a profit: Lee is still working on maximizing profits, but her business model is clear: Use user data to gather travel discounts. If 500 users want to visit Iceland, for example, she'll have airlines, hotels and travel companies bid to win their collective business -- and those bids also mean consumer savings. For example, if one airline bids a 30 percent off deal for users and the other bids 40 percent, the latter will win that entire block of business, and each user will be entitled to those savings.

Her secret to success: There will always be new obstacles that pop up to slow your progress, Lee says, whether from work, social life or finances. Chipping away at a goal a little at a time can be the most effective way to see real growth. "You don't need to do everything in one day," she says. "You can do a little bit each day, and the momentum eventually will catch up like a snowball."

What she wishes she'd known: Launching a business is a mental challenge similar to running a marathon. "Every day, you question yourself and ask whether this was the right decision -- to leave a 20-year career to pursue something that's uncertain," Lee says. You can turn that uncertainty into mental strength by training yourself to look ahead -- into the future of what you're building -- and pull yourself back up after any setback.

Top consumer tip: For consumers looking for hot travel destinations this year, Lee recommends Colombia and Jordan. In the latter, travelers can visit the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, Roman ruins and more. "You feel like you're on Mars [or] in Indiana Jones," she says.

Related: Why Travel Should Be a Top Priority for Every Entrepreneur

Tom Marchant, co-founder of Black Tomato

What his company does: Black Tomato is a travel company planning and tailoring trips for its clients with an emphasis on unique experiences.

How he got his start: Marchant met his two business partners while at Newcastle University in northeast England. They shared the dream of building a business, so they decided that one day, they'd do it together. Travel was the primary passion they had in common. Marchant and one of his future partners traveled through South America post-graduation and visited an area of Brazil with extensive swampland and jungle. A day they spent catching fish and grilling it by a lake helped them hone their business purpose -- they wanted to send customers to unique destinations and offer authentic local experiences they couldn't find in guidebooks or formulaic itineraries.

"We want people to feel like travelers, not tourists," Marchant says. Coincidentally, Marchant and his friend ended up meeting another of their future partners on their South America trip. "We said, "We never want to stop doing this. How can we turn it into a company?'' Marchant says.

How he turned a profit: The friends started Black Tomato in Marchant's bedroom. They knew they needed both a great website with a consistent message and contacts around the world, so they set to work building up both -- but they did catch a couple of lucky breaks upfront. When Marchant needed help writing copy for the site, he sent a "cold email" to someone at Condé Nast, and he received a reply requesting more information on Black Tomato.

Marchant met someone from the company for coffee two weeks later, and two months after that, Condé Nast Traveler published a full-page feature on Black Tomato calling the company the "future of travel." Marchant says that put Black Tomato on the map in the United Kingdom and the international market. Another early perk? The fact that the company required cash deposits upfront helped with liquidity early on. Word of mouth was its biggest asset when it came to growth, amplified by a few more press features.

His secret to success: Marchant and his two co-founders didn't come from a travel background, which he views as both a challenge and a blessing. It fostered creativity in the services they created, and they began to offer pre- and post-trip services as well as travel packages. They focused on what they thought was missing in the travel space and, coming at it from an outside view, what they'd want as customers. That idea fueled their business plan.

What he wishes he'd known: "We were ambitious and passionate, but certainly in the early days, it's easy to take a few knocks," Marchant says. He wishes he could tell his younger self not to stress as much and trust in his goal. Tenacity pays off, and persistence gets you results.

Top consumer tip: Consider traveling during "shoulder seasons" -- or times of year just before or after peak season in any destination. Traveling during a shoulder season often means fewer crowds and better deals without sacrificing good weather. Marchant also suggests making it a point to talk to as many people as you can while traveling, instead of meticulously planning an itinerary from online research. Some of the best experiences and insights come from talking to locals, pinning down the passions you have in common and seeing parts of the world you never would have seen otherwise.

Darrell Wade, co-founder of Intrepid Travel

What his company does: Intrepid Travel is a small group adventure travel company operating with itineraries in more than 120 countries. Its mission is to give travelers both a guided and genuine cultural experience by traveling, eating and sleeping the way locals do. How he got his start: Wade's first time on a plane landed him in Hawaii when he was 6-years-old, and he still remembers it vividly. Fast-forward to post-graduation, and within five or six weeks of starting a job, Wade realized he was a "terrible employee" in that he couldn't find any sort of passion for someone else's business. Both his parents were entrepreneurs, so the gene was "embedded pretty deep in [him]," he says. One night in 1998 -- while tossing ideas back and forth with a friend over a bottle of wine -- Wade realized he wanted to enter into the business of travel.

In the 1980s, Wade had backpacked for months on end, and he valued the way backpackers were immersed in local culture -- taking trains, buses and even donkey carts as transportation, or staying in accommodations such as conventional hotels, overnight trains, hostels or national park lodges. He wanted to give people that same degree of cultural experience in a more organized way. The idea evolved into Intrepid.

How he turned a profit: "Although we'd both been to business school, I think we mustn't have been listening," Wade says. He says his and his co-founder's number one mistake was not securing enough cash to start the business, so they were constrained on capital for the first couple of years. "Under the hood in any given trip, there could be as many as 1,000 line items of costs," Wade says, citing everything from coffee to transportation to activities to fees and permits.

Luckily, the very nature of Intrepid's business plan -- cash deposits upfront for the promise of a unique travel experience later -- meant they had enough money in the bank to operate. Wade and his co-founder didn't make enough to pay themselves until year three, but since then, growth and lower operating costs in developing countries has brought them a relatively healthy profit margin.

His secret to success: Wade attributes his success to one key element: the realization that he and his co-founder "weren't really that great at anything." Early on, they knew they needed to hire the right employees -- people who were extremely talented and skilled -- as fast as they possibly could. "I don't have to work as hard, and we're getting much better output because they're much more talented than I am," Wade says.

What he wishes he'd known: Trial and error is a valuable process, and it's why Wade says he wouldn't give his younger self any additional insights. Failure is widely seen as one of the best teachers, especially when it comes to business. "I think it's far better just to battle through," he says. "You usually learn a hell of a lot more through failure than you do through success."

Top consumer tip: Travelers shouldn't be so timid when weighing potential risks or questions about future travel, Wade says -- he recommends taking the leap and never looking back. "Get out of that resort," he says. "Go out and see the real world, and learn a bit and have a bit of fun along the way."

Related: How He Went from Intern to Innovator in the Travel Industry

Paul Metselaar, chairman and CEO of Ovation Travel Group

What his company does: Ovation Travel Group is a high-end travel company that specializes in both corporate travel and leisure vacations , completing upwards of $1 billion in travel bookings per year. "I like to call what we do "prima donna travel,'" says Metselaar, likening it to the "care and feeding of" lawyers, investment bankers, hedge fund managers, entertainment executives and celebrities. (For example: The company recently arranged a wedding in Morocco, flying in both Dave Matthews Band and Coldplay. "I think the family spent $2 million just on bands," Metselaar says.)

How he got his start: For close to seven decades, Metselaar's family has been in the travel business -- his father, a teacher in the Bronx, had a business taking teens on guided tours across the world. When Metselaar tagged along on one of the Europe tours as a kid, he was bored -- he read The Lord of the Rings cover to cover and wished he was home playing basketball or football with friends. But the experience planted seeds, and later on, Metselaar grew to love travel, seeing it as a "mind expander" and a way to understand other cultures. So later on, when his father needed help running a struggling travel agency he'd bought, a 27-year-old Metselaar left his law practice and took over the agency, turning into a company called "Lawyers Travel" that helped arrange first-class trips for litigators. Later, he expanded the company's focus to include all types of corporate travel and leisure vacations.

How he turned a profit: Metselaar points to capitalizing on niche markets, hiring a quality and diverse team and sticking to his morals as vital to Ovation Travel Group's growth. "A lot of people will try to get you to do things you shouldn't, so always have the right ethics and morals -- and run your business like you do your personal life," he says. He also emphasizes the importance of delegating and giving those you hire the freedom to do their jobs.

His secret to success: Every day, Metselaar says, his father told him to keep his door open because "you never know who might walk through." Through tragedies that turned the travel industry upside down -- the Gulf Wars, 9/11, SARS and more -- Metselaar says persistence was the driving force behind his team emerging, post-crisis, as a stronger company. "I think that persistence is a very underrated quality," he says. "Some entrepreneurs give up too soon. … [I] had to juggle credit cards to make payroll in the early years."

What he wishes he'd known: "That it was all going to work out OK," Metselaar says. He spent a considerable amount of time facing fear he'd fail, disappoint his family and be forced to go back to practicing law. On the other hand, he says, fear is a great motivator, so he wonders if he'd have been as motivated without that trepidation driving him.

Top consumer tip: Don't plan everything, and don't always travel with your friends -- instead, "organize your trip to encourage serendipity," Metselaar says. Engineer your plans to allow for time to explore, walk around aimlessly, talk to people and see where those conversations lead. He says he wishes more Americans traveled because experiencing other cultures leads to realizing that across the world, humans are much more alike than they are different. "Everybody has the same hopes and dreams all over the world," he says.

Sam Shank, co-founder and CEO of HotelTonight

What his company does: HotelTonight aims to change the hotel-booking game for the mobile era, emphasizing last-minute discounts for hotel stays. (Despite the name, the service has recently expanded to allow users to book up to 100 days in advance.) Savings average about 20 percent compared to booking through an online travel agency, Shank says.

How he got his start: Shank says the "travel bug" bit him just before business school, when he tagged along on a pre-orientation trip to Costa Rica. It was the first time he'd ever gone on a trip incorporating both adventure and culture immersion, and Shank was immediately hooked. "I said, "This is amazing. I want to do more and more of this. How can I do more of this?'" he says. After graduating business school, he got started with just that -- launching another travel company more geared towards social networking before eventually landing on the idea for HotelTonight.

How he turned a profit: "When we decided to focus on profitability, the most important thing was aligning the team [that] no other priority mattered," Shank says. "It was one of the highlights of my career … seeing how well the team came together around this singular goal." HotelTonight employees began brainstorming strategies for launching the company into the green, and higher-ups were transparent with the numbers. One of the first orders of business: Doing away with discounts and coupons. Shank figured the value proposition was already unique and would stand on its own. The ensuing revenue seemed to prove him right. Next up was doubling down on innovation for hotels using the platform -- and introducing "Geo Rates," where hotels could award discounts to users in certain parts of the world to encourage a more varied customer base.

His secret to success: Shank emphasizes the importance of focusing on the customer. For his part, HotelTonight has two sets of customers -- consumers and hotels -- so that makes it "doubly hard but also doubly important," he says. He also recommends narrowing your focus to one or two niche areas rather than trying to tackle five or six aspects of your industry or metrics at the same time.

What he wishes he'd known: Growth and profitability are not mutually exclusive, Shank says. When he launched HotelTonight, he wishes he'd known that growing the "topline" is key, but watching the bottom line simultaneously is just as vital.

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Currently, Wander embraces his dream by owning and operating more than 90 locations in desirable destinations across the United States, including Big Sur, Yosemite, Malibu, Vail, Telluride, the Atlantic Coast, and the New England countryside.

Each property includes the following core amenities:

• AI-assisted services
• Smart bed technology
• Modern workstations
• Wellness features (i.e., pools, saunas, and hot tubs)
• 24/7 concierge service

“With an industry-leading 93%+ guest satisfaction rate, we’re the first end-to-end travel platform for trips, experiences, and concierge service,” says Entwistle who is currently Wander’s CEO and previously a Forbes 30 under 30 and Thiel Fellow.

Entwistle continues, “In a world where expectations are high and disappointments are plenty, where so much of the infrastructure to experience the world is broken, Wander stands as a

beacon of what the future of luxury travel can be: consistent, beautiful, and

unforgettable.“

Luxury Travel Growth Trends

Luxury hospitality is the fastest-growing travel segment with 6% anticipated annual growth through 2025, reports McKinsey in its The State of Travel and Hospitality 2024 report.

McKinsey finds the rapid increase stems from several factors:

• Younger generations prefer experiences, thereby allocating more for travel than previous generations at a similar age.
• 66% of surveyed travelers are more interested in travel now than pre-pandemic.
• 35% of travelers have a net worth between $100,000 and $1 million. The advent of aspiring luxury travelers who splurge on select trip components—lodging, special meals, or flight upgrades—debunks the notion that luxury travel is only for millionaires.
• Luxury travel is no longer almost exclusively for travelers from the United States or Europe, as more international residents have increased purchasing power.
• An increasing number of modern travelers prefer branded luxury and loyalty programs to independent operators while seeking personalizable itineraries and experiences.

The burgeoning interest in the upscale travel segment is increasing competition among operators of luxury hotels and vacation homes, which are adapting to today’s travel needs.

Guests Want Standardization in Luxury Travel

As the industry pivots to a growing audience and more diverse traveler behaviors, McKinsey recommends digging deeply and segmenting by age, nationality, and net worth to serve the needs of their primary guest with a standardized experience.

Recognizing the industry-wide changes and learning from personal travel experiences, Wander has had over 17,000 guests experience its modern, white-glove amenities so far.

Unlike most vacation rental platforms, which simply list properties from a broad swath of individual hosts and agencies, with vastly different amenities and minimum property standards, Wander fully operates each home on its platform. This practice allows the company to provide a uniform experience across its portfolio.

Further, implementing the latest technology available is one of Wander CEO John Andrew Entwistle’s priorities to provide a personal touch from booking until checkout. Embracing technology is second nature as Entwistle was previously the co-founder of Coder.com before launching Wander.

Instead of just browsing listings by destination at the beginning of the booking process, aspiring guests receive AI-assisted property recommendations to find the ideal destination. Further, each listing includes virtual house tours, local attraction guides, and guest testimonials to get an in-depth grasp of the stay experience and panorama before arrival.

Economic Challenges Facing Luxury Travel Providers

While the increased demand for premium travel experiences is a net positive for travel hosts, financial obstacles lie beneath the surface that can impact the profitability of high-end short-term rental properties.

Specifically, in 2023, short-term rental owners experienced a double whammy of inflation and an overall decline in revenue per available room (RevPAR). Thankfully, the industry forecasts modest improvements in the average daily rate and revenue so hosts can continue offering services that affluent and high-income travelers expect.

Wander is leaning into the industry’s changes through the following strategies :

• Authentic experiences: Focus on differentiation and make customer experiences the core emphasis instead of offering a cookie-cutter solution for all guest backgrounds.
• Portfolio diversification: Be rigorously selective when choosing homes and locations. Inspiring destinations are one research factor, but choosing the right spot is crucial.
• Top 1% of vacation rentals: Data points indicate the top 1% of properties earn 35% of all short-term vacation rental revenue. Wander prides itself on only owning top-tier properties resulting in strongly positive guest reviews for a win-win situation.
• Ignore the hype: Many temporary distractions—especially advancing travel demand—make it harder to achieve the cardinal goal of building a stable and durable business.

Entwistle’s vision is to be a resilient smart vacation home platform for the foreseeable future while remaining receptive and adaptable to guests' needs for a top-notch experience. Guests can expect a level of consistency across Wander’s portfolio at their favorite destinations and new adventure spots to spend more time exploring instead of adjusting to a property’s shortcomings.

Recent studies indicate that 77% of travelers care more about the best-fitting travel experience than about the cost of the trip, according to the 2024 Global Travel Trends Report from American Express Travel .

For instance, Wander’s ambitions include establishing a global footprint while expanding its United States portfolio simultaneously. As the company grows, it plans to seamlessly integrate other travel booking options, such as flights and additional services, that the next generation of travelers is seeking. Premier guest stays remain its core focal point, though, assures Entwistle.

Final Thoughts

Leisure and business travelers flocked to luxury vacation rentals during the pandemic. While many enjoy the coziness and extra living space, the lack of hotel-grade amenities and cleanliness leaves something to be desired. Wander is addressing these shortcomings through vacation homes meeting the travel needs of the 21st century to work or rest.

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