If you’re thinking about becoming a travel agent and you want to specialize in Disney vacations, perhaps the biggest decision you’ll make is choosing your host agency. Your host agency is the partner that gives you the tools, training, and industry connections you need to book travel and grow your business.
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is the right fit — especially if you want to specialize in Disney vacations? Let’s walk through what to look for, what to avoid, and how to find the perfect host to support your Disney-focused career.
Why a Host Agency Matters
You can’t simply sign up with Disney and start selling vacations. You’ll want to choose the best host agency for travel agents, which means you’ll need to be affiliated with an accredited host agency that carries the proper industry credentials (IATA or CLIA, for example). A host agency provides that access, but more importantly, it can train you on how to run your business, offer marketing resources, negotiate higher commission rates for you, and surround you with a community of support. In other words, choosing your host agency is one of the most important career decisions you’ll make.
Turn your passion into
a business. your way.
- High-Paying Commissions: 70% paid directly to you.
- Outstanding Support: Call, email, or chat with our team directly.
- Amazing Benefits: Discounts on hotels, resorts, cruises, and park tickets.
- Premier Partners: Disney, Universal, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and many more.
- Incredible Community: Network with our active community of travel pros.
Boardwalk Travel Agency is one of the fastest-growing host agencies in the country.
Join our team today and begin building your travel business on your own terms.
Look for Strong Disney Partnerships
Not every host agency has meaningful relationships with Disney. If your goal is to specialize, there are some key things you should look for when choosing your host agency:
- Make sure your host is an official Disney partner
- Ensure they have proven experience helping agents sell Disney products like parks, cruises, and Adventures by Disney
- It’s best if the agency has a long-standing partnership with Disney and other top brands
These things mean there are better odds your agency will be able to get you access to exclusive promotions, tailored training, and higher commission opportunities.
Commission Splits and Income Potential
Your income as a travel agent comes from commissions, and how much you keep depends on your host agency’s split. Some hosts take a larger percentage than new agents realize, which can significantly reduce your earnings. Ask what the split looks like and if there are hidden fees buried in the fine print.
Boardwalk Travel Agency, for example, offers some of the highest commission splits in the industry and no hidden or recurring fees. So your hard work translates directly into income.
Training and Onboarding
Disney provides its College of Knowledge for product-specific training, but that alone won’t teach you how to build a thriving business. A strong host agency should offer a structured onboarding process that covers marketing, sales, client management, and technology. Look for mentorship opportunities with experienced Disney-focused agents and resources that help you promote yourself online. This kind of hands-on support is especially critical when you’re just starting out. (Boardwalk does 1-on-1 calls with every new agent to get you started on the right foot.)
If you’re nervous about getting started, be sure to check out our post about how to become a Disney travel agent with no experience.
The Power of Community
One of the biggest predictors of success in this industry is whether you feel connected and supported. A host agency that fosters a vibrant community allows you to learn from others, celebrate wins, and share ideas. At Boardwalk, our private Facebook group has become one of the most valuable resources for new and experienced agents alike. It’s a safe, encouraging space where everyone helps one another succeed.
Fees and Costs
Every host agency structures their fees differently. Some charge hefty startup costs, others impose high monthly fees, and a few even require sales quotas just to stay active. When comparing options, weigh the startup cost, monthly or annual fees, commission split, and any additional expenses such as required training programs.
Boardwalk keeps things simple: no quotas, no surprise charges, and the freedom to work at your own pace.
Reputation and Credibility
Do your homework before committing. Check reviews on sites like Host Agency Reviews, look for testimonials from current or former agents, and see how long the agency has been around. Recognition from major travel suppliers is also a strong signal of credibility. Choosing a reputable agency gives you peace of mind that your success is in good hands.
Disney-Specific Resources
If your dream is to sell Disney vacations, ask whether the host agency goes the extra mile with Disney-specific support. That could mean things like:
- Exclusive familiarization trips to Disney properties
- Training webinars
- Promotional materials
- Mentorship from Disney experts
- Access to agents-only deals
The more tailored resources they offer, the easier it will be for you to build your niche and attract clients who want a magical experience.
Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Before you decide, take the time to ask each host agency a few key questions: What is your commission split for new agents? Do you require quotas? What training do you provide beyond Disney’s College of Knowledge? And how active is your community? The answers will quickly reveal whether they’re invested in your success or simply looking to collect fees.
The Boardwalk Advantage
At Boardwalk Travel Agency, we’ve built our program with Disney-focused agents in mind. You’ll enjoy high commission rates, structured training that covers both Disney products and business skills, one-on-one mentorship from Disney experts, and access to Disney’s College of Knowledge. Plus, our thriving private Facebook group connects you with a supportive community of agents cheering each other on every day. Best of all, there are no quotas, no hidden costs, and no pressure — just the resources you need to turn your passion into a thriving business.
Final Word
Choosing the best host agency is one of the most important steps in becoming a Disney travel agent. The right partner will give you access to Disney, provide the training and tools to grow your business, and make sure your hard work pays off with high commissions. Focus on commission rates, training, community, reputation, and Disney-specific resources as you evaluate your options.
If Disney is your passion and you’re ready to share that magic with others, Boardwalk Travel Agency has everything you need to get started today.
