How much does a reservation agent make?

In the U.S., pay can differ with experience and computer or customer-service skills, the employer and setting (such as an airline or booking office), and location. Working full-time or part-time changes total earnings, and shifts may include evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays.

Make and confirm reservations for transportation or lodging, or sell transportation tickets. May check baggage and direct passengers to designated concourse, pier, or track; deliver tickets and contact individuals and groups to inform them of package tours; or provide tourists with travel or transportation information. Excludes "Cashiers” (41-2011), "Travel Agents” (41-3041), and "Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks” (43-4081) who sell tickets for local transportation.

What's a typical day like?

They check schedules and open seats on a computer, answer travelers’ questions, and book, change, or confirm trips and lodging. At an airport, they may check documents and bags, issue boarding passes, and guide passengers who need help.

In the U.S., a high school diploma or GED is the usual starting point; extra college is not usually needed. Apply to an airline or travel company, then learn booking software, ticket rules, and safety steps on the job.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and helping and teaching.

Some reservation agents may announce arrivals and departures over a public-address system—not just book trips.