Travel agent side hustle promoted by influencers is under scrutiny after recruits claim they struggled to make money due to sign-up costs and monthly fees. The scheme, which involves working as an independent travel agent with InteleTravel through PlanNet Marketing, promises users the ability to 'catch flights and get paid mid-air,' but many are finding the reality far less glamorous.
What Is the Travel Agent Side Hustle?
The travel agent side hustle is marketed by influencers and celebrities as a way to earn income while traveling. Recruits sign up as independent travel agents with InteleTravel, a US-based host travel agency, and are often recruited by PlanNet Marketing representatives. Influencers like Yasmin Hadlow and Vicky Pattison promote the opportunity to their followers, promising freedom and financial independence. However, the Guardian has spoken to seven people who were recruited by PlanNet Marketing reps who said they struggled to make money once sign-up costs and monthly fees were taken into account.
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How the Scheme Works
PlanNet Marketing recruits people to work as independent travel agents with InteleTravel. The recruitment process often involves sending a direct message with the word 'freedom' to receive more information. Once signed up, agents are encouraged to recruit others as PlanNet Marketing reps, which some say becomes their main focus rather than selling holidays. This structure has led to comparisons with multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes.
Costs Involved
New agents face various costs, including sign-up fees, monthly fees, and training expenses. These costs can quickly add up, making it difficult for agents to turn a profit, especially if they are not making many sales. Some recruits reported that the people who recruited them encouraged them to sign up as PlanNet Marketing reps and recruit others, shifting the focus away from actual travel sales.
Earnings Reality vs. Promises
The earnings from this travel agent side hustle are often less than promised. While influencers showcase luxurious trips and claim to be making money mid-air, many recruits find themselves making little to no profit after expenses. Mark, a former recruit, said, 'I was making no money.' He was recruited in 2021 when he was 28 and had just been furloughed during Covid. He wanted a career change and was looking at different routes to his dream job as a travel agent.
| Promised Benefits | Reality for Many Recruits |
|---|---|
| Earn money while traveling | Struggle to make sales |
| Flexible side hustle | Monthly fees eat into profits |
| Supportive community | Pressure to recruit others |
| Low start-up costs | Sign-up and training fees add up |
Key Takeaways
- Influencer-promoted travel agent side hustles may have hidden costs that reduce earnings.
- Recruits are sometimes encouraged to focus on recruiting others rather than selling travel.
- Many participants struggle to make money after fees are deducted.
- The scheme has been compared to multi-level marketing (MLM) structures.
- Prospective agents should carefully review all costs and earnings potential before signing up.
Is This Side Hustle Right for You?
Before joining any travel agent side hustle, it's crucial to do your research. Understand the fee structure, the commission rates, and the support provided. Ask for transparency about how much the average agent earns. Be wary of promises of easy money and focus on the actual business of selling travel. If the primary emphasis is on recruiting others, it may be a sign of an MLM scheme rather than a legitimate travel business.
FAQ
What is the travel agent side hustle promoted by influencers?
It's a business opportunity where individuals sign up as independent travel agents with InteleTravel through PlanNet Marketing. Influencers promote it as a way to earn income while traveling, but many recruits report struggling to make money after fees.
How much does it cost to join?
Costs vary, but typically include a sign-up fee, monthly fees, and training expenses. These can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on the package.
Can you actually make money with this side hustle?
While some may earn income, many recruits report making little to no profit after expenses. Success often depends on recruiting others rather than selling travel, which raises concerns about the business model.
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