If you usually rely on a travel agent to book vacations, it may be time to explore other options.
New data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook indicate that travel agent positions are declining even as other parts of the travel industry expand.
The handbook projects that “employment of travel agents is projected to decline 12 percent from 2014 to 2024.” The report explains that the widespread ability for travelers to research and book trips online and on mobile devices is expected to continue reducing demand for traditional travel agent services.
There is a caveat: the handbook notes that the abundance of travel and review websites can make planning a trip overwhelming for some consumers. For those travelers, a knowledgeable agent who can filter options, provide personalized advice, and offer curated recommendations may still be valuable.
By contrast, the overall U.S. workforce is projected to grow about 7 percent during the same period, and several travel-related occupations are expected to see healthy gains. For example, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and chauffeurs are expected to experience growth as demand for their services rises.
Specifically, the handbook states that “employment of taxi drivers and chauffeurs is projected to grow 13 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.” The rise of ride-hailing services and app-based electronic hailing is cited as a key driver of this growth.
In short, technology is reshaping how people plan and book travel. While many consumers now complete bookings themselves via web and mobile platforms, there remains a role for travel professionals who can simplify the process and offer specialized expertise, particularly for complex itineraries or travelers who prefer a personalized touch.