It’s no secret that travel advisors get some of the BEST perks in the world! Who else can say that they have Familiarization (FAM) opportunities to experience different destinations, cruise ships, supplier products, hotels, and more?!

Personal travel is going to happen inherently. You will probably wake up one day and notice that you have a new trip, FAM, or conference booked for yourself every single month throughout the year – there’s nothing wrong with that! As a travel advisor, you should take full advantage of learning your niche, discovering new markets, and meeting with your supplier partners. However, we want to make sure that you’re not diving in head-first without any real direction.

Keep in mind that no matter where you go, you’re still a travel advisor. Before each trip, you should take about 15-30 minutes to build out your personal travel strategy. A personal travel strategy will help you create defined goals of what you intend to get out of this trip – even if it’s just some rest & relaxation!

Think about the marketability of your trip. Do you have a client that is heading to the destination soon? Would you like to start selling the destination? Start building your strategy!

Here is a list of the 6 things you should consider before leaving on your next trip:

1. What do you plan on getting out of this trip? What is your purpose for this trip, and what is one thing you hope to bring back from it?
2. Is there a specific tour that most clients would want to take in this destination?
3. Did you ask for an upgrade and inform the hotel of your arrival? We all want to make sure we get the BEST photos for social media!
4. Do you have a photoshoot planned or some way to really capture the true essence of the destination you’re visiting?
5. Do you have any site visits planned with either a local CVB or hotel partner?
6. Are you going to be posting to social media during the trip or when you get back?

If you’re heading to your next Conference or FAM, be sure to check out our Preparing for FAMs and Conferences resource and check out FAM With Intention for some amazing ideas to get yourself ready!

FAM With Intention (course only)

FAM With Intention (course + 30-minute coaching session)

FAM With Intention (course + 60-minute coaching session + custom social media plan)