Time to start your journey

As travel and tourism bounces back from the Covid-19 pandemic, there’s no better time than now to consider starting your career in one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic industries

What kind of jobs jump to mind when you think about working in the travel industry? Is it booking people their holiday of a lifetime? Maybe it’s being a pilot who takes passengers to exotic destinations? Or leading excursions across some of the world’s most fascinating cities?

These are all exciting roles if you decide to look for a job in the travel industry. But what you might not think about is that pursuing a career path outside of these roles can still link you with the sector. From finance and sales roles to HR departments and legal responsibilities, there are several career choices that also fall under the travel industry umbrella. And not to mention the exciting possibilities that are on offer to those with an interest in technology.

Our A-Z guide takes you through the huge variety of roles that all have their place in shaping the travel and tourism industry.

Think big

The travel industry was thrusted into the spotlight during the Covid-19 pandemic. But since restrictions have lifted, and international borders have reopened, the pent-up demand for travel proves that people are still desperate to get out there and see the world to make up for lost time.

According to research by travel association Abta, international travel directly supports more than 700,000 jobs between outbound and inbound travel in the UK, a number that grows to an impressive 1.5 million jobs when you consider those supported indirectly by international travel.

There’s a misconception that working in the travel industry isn’t a “proper career”, but in this guide, you’ll hear from people who have worked their way up into senior positions in a variety of roles.

But it’s not all about holidays and leisure travel – there’s a whole sector out there dedicated to business travel, planning conferences, corporate getaways and much more.

And it can all be as sociable as you like, with lots of positions available for those who want to get out, meet contacts, network at events and see the world, as well as those who prefer to develop their career on home soil.

The travel and tourism industry never stands still. There are so many great reasons why you might want to consider playing your part, which you’ll see throughout this guide. You’ll also find out how others forged their path and discover what travel companies are out there and the opportunities that are available to you.