How to become a travel agent in How To Become A Travel Agent In Pennsylvania Travel Trends
If you are considering a career as a travel agent in Pennsylvania, understanding the current travel trends in the state is crucial for your success. Pennsylvania's tourism industry has seen significant growth and recovery post-pandemic, making it an exciting time to be part of this sector.
The state's visitor economy has surpassed $50 billion in spending, with domestic travelers contributing $47.9 billion in 2023. This marks a 5.5% increase from the previous year, driven by both price and demand increases. Visitor spending has not only recovered but also exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with an average of over $138 million spent every day by visitors in Pennsylvania.
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions about becoming a travel agent in Pennsylvania.
Read the FAQ
There are so many opportunities as a travel agent. Click here to see our preferred suppliers list that shows off what you can sell as a travel agent with Vincent Vacations.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.One of the key trends is the shift towards experiential spending. Recreation spending led the growth in 2023, increasing by 10.5% year-over-year, as visitors prefer spending on experiences rather than material goods. Food and beverage spending also saw a notable increase of 6.8%, while lodging, including short-term rentals and second homes, expanded by 5.1%.
"Pennsylvania's natural beauty and rich history offer a unique blend of attractions that can transform our city into a premier tourist destination," said Representative Robert Merski. This emphasizes the diverse appeal of Pennsylvania's tourism offerings, from the sparkling waters of Lake Erie to the cultural treasures within its museums.
As a Travel Agent, What Would I Sell?
Check out our preferred suppliers list. From luxury to safaris to Hawaii, you can sell all our suppliers and their experiences to your clients in Pennsylvania and anywhere in the US!
Our Suppliers List
Regional tourism highlights are also noteworthy. Pittsburgh's tourism industry, for instance, has nearly recovered from pre-pandemic levels, with visitor spending and state and local taxes generated increasing significantly. The city saw 20.4 million trips in 2023, including a 7% increase in overnight trips. This recovery is largely attributed to the resurgence of sporting events and leisure activities.
The state government is also actively supporting tourism through significant investments. Governor Josh Shapiro's bipartisan budget includes a $15 million allocation for tourism marketing, aimed at boosting the economy and attracting more visitors. This initiative is part of the "Great American Getaway" brand, which encourages tens of millions within a few hours' drive to visit Pennsylvania
For aspiring travel agents, understanding these trends and initiatives can help in crafting appealing packages and experiences that cater to the evolving preferences of travelers. By focusing on experiential spending, regional attractions, and the support provided by state initiatives, travel agents can play a vital role in further enhancing Pennsylvania's tourism industry.
Pennsylvania's tourism industry has experienced significant growth, with visitor spending surpassing $50 billion in 2023. This marks a 5.5% increase from the previous year, driven by both price and demand increases. The total economic impact of tourism in the state reached $80.8 billion, including direct, indirect, and induced impacts. This substantial economic activity generates $25.4 billion in labor income and supports a wide range of industries within the state.
The tourism industry is a major job creator in Pennsylvania. In 2023, it directly supported 320,809 jobs, with a total of 507,594 jobs sustained when including indirect and induced impacts. These jobs span various sectors, including lodging, recreation, and food services. Tourism-supported employment accounts for approximately 4% of all jobs in Pennsylvania, making it a vital sector for the state's workforce.
| Industry | Jobs Supported | % of Total Industry Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Lodging | Nearly all employment | |
| Recreation | 30% of employment | |
| Food Services | 26% of employment |
Tourism also makes a substantial contribution to state and local tax revenues. In 2023, visitor spending generated $4.8 billion in state and local taxes. This amount is significant enough that each household in Pennsylvania would need to be taxed an additional $903 to replace the taxes received from visitors. This highlights the crucial role tourism plays in supporting public services and infrastructure through tax contributions.
“Each household in Pennsylvania would need to be taxed an additional $903 to replace the taxes supported by visitors received by the state and local governments,” emphasizing the economic importance of tourism to the state's tax base.
Lindsey Vera
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Impact of Tourism on State and Local Taxes
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.In 2023, Pennsylvania's tourism sector saw a significant recovery, with visitor numbers and revenue reaching new highs. The state welcomed 196.6 million visitors, a 2.2% increase from the previous year. This growth was driven by both domestic and international travelers, with domestic travelers accounting for the bulk of the visitor spending at $47.9 billion. This figure represents a 5.5% increase from the prior year, attributed to both price and demand increases.
The recovery has been particularly beneficial for local economies, especially in regions like the Pocono Mountains and Erie. The Pocono Mountains, known for their natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, have seen a resurgence in tourism. This region has been a favorite among visitors seeking to reconnect with nature and enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports.
"Erie and the entire region benefit hugely from state investments – not just making for a better Presque Isle, but helping local businesses expand or bringing new employers to town," said Representative Ryan Bizzarro. This highlights the positive impact of tourism on local economies, particularly in the Erie region, where attractions like Presque Isle State Park are major draws.
Marla Finley
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
The Erie region, with its beautiful beaches and rich history, has also seen significant growth. Presque Isle State Park, for example, is one of the region's most cherished natural treasures, attracting visitors from across Pennsylvania and beyond. These local economies have benefited from increased tourism, with small businesses and local services experiencing a boost in activity and revenue
Post-pandemic, there has been a noticeable shift towards outdoor and sporting activities in Pennsylvania. Recreation spending led the growth in 2023, increasing by 10.5% year-over-year, as visitors increasingly prefer experiential spending over material goods. This trend reflects a broader desire for outdoor experiences, such as hiking, biking, and water sports, which are abundant in Pennsylvania's diverse landscapes.
| Category | Year-over-Year Growth |
|---|---|
| Recreation | 10.5% |
| Food and Beverage | 6.8% |
| Lodging | 5.1% |
Another significant trend is the rise of short-term rentals in Pennsylvania. Lodging spending, which includes short-term rentals and second homes, expanded by 5.1% in 2023. This growth is part of a broader shift towards more flexible and personalized accommodation options, as travelers seek unique and homely experiences that differ from traditional hotel stays. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have become increasingly popular, offering a wide range of choices from cozy cottages to urban apartments
Governor Josh Shapiro's “Great American Getaway” campaign is a significant statewide initiative aimed at boosting Pennsylvania's tourism industry. This campaign is designed to attract visitors from within a few hours' drive, highlighting the state's diverse attractions and experiences. By promoting Pennsylvania as a premier travel destination, the campaign aims to drive economic growth, create new businesses, and support job creation across the state.
The Shapiro Administration has proposed a $15 million increase in funding for tourism in the 2024-25 budget. This major investment in tourism and recreation asset development is expected to drive economic growth, leading to new businesses and jobs. The increased funding will be used to enhance marketing efforts, develop tourism infrastructure, and support local economies through targeted initiatives.
"This major investment in tourism and recreation asset development will drive economic growth, leading to new businesses and jobs and a stronger economy for all Pennsylvanians," said Governor Shapiro. This highlights the state's proactive approach to supporting the tourism industry and its economic benefits.
Governor Shapiro on Increased Funding for Tourism
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.The Pennsylvania Tourism Office has launched various marketing programs to attract tourists. The 2023 Happy Traveler guide, for example, is a comprehensive resource dedicated to must-see attractions, exciting events, and unique experiences across the state. This guide, available at visitPA.com, provides travelers with ideas for planning their trips and discovering hidden gems in Pennsylvania.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| 2023 Happy Traveler Guide | A state travel guide featuring must-see attractions, events, and experiences. |
| visitPA.com | A website offering trip recommendations, articles, and resources for exploring the state. |
| Happy Thoughts Newsletter | A monthly digital newsletter providing inspiration for trips and vacations. |
Pennsylvania is rich in history and culture, and the state is actively promoting its historic sites and cultural attractions to attract more visitors. From iconic landmarks to lesser-known gems, these sites are a major draw for tourists. The state's tourism initiatives include targeted marketing campaigns to highlight these attractions, ensuring that visitors can experience the full depth of Pennsylvania's heritage.
"Whether planning a getaway to relax and practice a little self-care or checking off a bucket list item, this year’s guide is overflowing with inspiration to explore the unique cities, history, outdoor experiences, food, and culture across the Commonwealth," said Carrie Fischer Lepore, Department of Community and Economic Development Deputy Secretary of Marketing, Tourism & Film.
The Philadelphia region has seen a significant recovery in its tourism industry. In 2023, the five-county Philadelphia area welcomed 42.9 million visitors, marking a 6% increase from the previous year, although it remains 6% below pre-pandemic levels of 2019. This recovery is attributed to a strong focus on attracting tourists from farther away, particularly through targeted marketing efforts in regions like the Northeast corridor and even as far as Atlanta.
"Philadelphia benefits from a strong tourism economy," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "Tourism attracts new residents, new businesses, and a new workforce to our area when people feel good about their Philadelphia experience."
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker on Philadelphia's Tourism Economy
To enhance travel planning, Visit Philadelphia is also leveraging AI. A new web page will be launched later in the year, allowing travelers to ask questions about Philadelphia and receive AI-generated answers informed by the Visit Philadelphia website. This initiative aims to make travel planning more efficient and user-friendly.
The Scranton-Wilkes Barre area is another region benefiting from tourism initiatives. The focus here is on enhancing both the economic and quality of life aspects for residents. Local attractions such as county parks, trails, state parks, historic sites, and museums are being promoted to showcase the area's unique offerings. This approach not only attracts tourists but also improves the overall quality of life for local residents by supporting small businesses and community events.
| Attraction Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| County Parks & Trails | Nescopeck State Park, Frances Slocum State Park |
| State Parks | Ricketts Glen State Park, Worlds End State Park |
| Historic Sites & Museums | Houdini Museum, Everhart Museum |
Pittsburgh has been recognized in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025, highlighting its growing appeal as a tourist destination. The city's tourism industry has nearly recovered from pre-pandemic levels, with visitor spending and state and local taxes generated increasing significantly. Pittsburgh's resurgence is largely attributed to the return of sporting events and leisure activities, making it an attractive spot for both domestic and international travelers.
"Pittsburgh's recognition in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 is a testament to the city's unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor experiences," said a tourism official. This recognition underscores Pittsburgh's status as a must-visit destination in Pennsylvania.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Philadelphia is set to host six matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026, an event that promises to be a significant boon for the city's tourism industry. This global sporting event is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors, both domestic and international, and will showcase Philadelphia as a premier sports and tourism destination. The economic impact of hosting such a high-profile event is anticipated to be substantial, with increased hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and overall spending in the city.
Besides the FIFA World Cup, Philadelphia will host several other high-profile events in the coming years. In 2026, the city will also host the MLB All-Star Game and first-round games in the NCAA basketball tournament. Additionally, Philadelphia will celebrate America's 250th birthday, drawing many semiquincentennial visitors. These events, combined with the 50th anniversary of the movie "Rocky" in November 2026, will make Philadelphia a hub of activity and interest for tourists.
"The beauty of these events is that they attract a wide range of visitors, from families to sports enthusiasts, and provide a unique opportunity for the city to showcase its hospitality and attractions," said Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Heather Huber
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
Meetings and conventions are becoming increasingly important drivers of tourism in Pennsylvania. In 2023, Philadelphia hosted 264 total events, including 20 citywide conventions, which generated over 563,400 hotel room nights and an economic impact of more than $380 million. These events attract large numbers of attendees who not only stay in hotels but also spend money on local services, dining, and attractions, contributing significantly to the local economy.
| Event Metric | 2023 Figures |
|---|---|
| Total Events | 264 |
| Citywide Conventions | 20 |
| Hotel Room Nights | 563,400 |
| Economic Impact | $380 million |
Ensuring that local communities benefit economically from tourism is a crucial aspect of balancing tourism and local needs. In Pennsylvania, tourism generates over $76 billion annually and supports more than 486,000 jobs. To maximize local economic benefits, initiatives such as the Marketing to Attract Tourists Program focus on developing new visitor experiences and promoting existing attractions. This program provides funding to organizations aiming to increase awareness of Pennsylvania's destinations, thereby driving visitor spending and supporting local businesses.
Maintaining the quality of life for residents is essential when balancing tourism with local needs. In regions like the Pocono Mountains and Erie, there is a strong focus on ensuring that tourism development aligns with the needs and preferences of local residents. For instance, State Senator Rosemary Brown emphasized the importance of balancing the tourism industry with the needs of residents, ensuring that employers and employees can thrive without compromising the quality of life for local communities.
"It’s extremely important to balance the residents with the tourism industry so that employers and employees can flourish," said State Senator Rosemary Brown. This underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both economic growth and resident well-being.
State Senator Rosemary Brown on Balancing Tourism and Resident Needs
Sustainable tourism practices are becoming increasingly important in Pennsylvania as the state aims to ensure that tourism development is environmentally and socially responsible. Travelers are now more conscious of their environmental impact, seeking deeper wellness experiences and personalized, immersive trips that align with sustainable practices. Initiatives such as those at Cove Pocono Resorts, which offer tailored services and outdoor activities while emphasizing environmental awareness, are examples of sustainable tourism in action.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Wellness Retreats | Focus on health and wellness experiences, such as hiking and personalized wellness packages. |
| Environmental Awareness | Emphasis on reducing environmental impact through sustainable practices and activities. |
| Local Community Engagement | Engagement with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits are shared equitably and sustainably. |
"Travelers are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact, seeking deeper wellness experiences and personalized, immersive trips that reflect their unique preferences," highlighting the shift towards sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
Becoming a travel agent in Pennsylvania offers a wealth of opportunities, especially given the state's vibrant and evolving travel trends. From the robust recovery of the tourism industry post-pandemic to the innovative marketing initiatives like Governor Shapiro’s “Great American Getaway” campaign, there is a clear momentum driving Pennsylvania's tourism sector forward.
The focus on sustainable tourism practices, such as the partnership between the PA Wilds Center and Leave No Trace, ensures that the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Pennsylvania are preserved for future generations. This approach not only attracts environmentally conscious travelers but also enhances the quality of life for local residents.
"The PA Wilds is one of the largest blocks of green space between New York City and Chicago with more than 2 million acres of public land," said PA Wilds Center CEO Ta Enos. This highlights the immense potential for outdoor and sustainable tourism in the region.
Ta Enos on the PA Wilds Region
Regional highlights, such as Philadelphia's recognition in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 and the growing appeal of the Scranton-Wilkes Barre area, offer diverse opportunities for travel agents to create unique and compelling travel packages. These regions, along with others like the Pocono Mountains and Erie, are experiencing significant economic benefits from tourism, which in turn supports local businesses and job creation.
| Region | Key Attractions and Trends |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia | High-profile sporting events, historic sites, and cultural attractions. |
| Scranton-Wilkes Barre | Outdoor recreation, local economic development, and quality of life focus. |
| Pocono Mountains | Natural beauty, outdoor activities, and sustainable tourism practices. |
| Erie | Beaches, historic sites, and a strong recovery post-pandemic. |
As a travel agent in Pennsylvania, you have the opportunity to leverage these trends to create memorable and sustainable travel experiences. By understanding the local economic benefits, maintaining the quality of life for residents, and promoting sustainable tourism practices, you can play a vital role in the state's tourism industry while providing exceptional service to your clients.
"Tourism marketing and investment, from a state perspective, is one of the very few line items that see a real return in the same year they spend that money," highlighting the potential for significant economic impact through targeted tourism initiatives.
Click below to learn more and apply to be a travel agent in Pennsylvania Travel Trends today.
Apply Now
Shelley Plum
In-Office Rep
Debro's Dream Destinations
Travel By Macy
Vincent Vacations - Authorized Travel Agent In Pennsylvania Travel Trends Vacation Planner
Questions? Call us at
1 (888) 883-0460
For Groups of 10
or more rooms, or 8 or more Cabins, please use of Group Form
Click Here for our Group Department
Vincent Vacations is an award winning travel agency. We serve clients all over the US.
Learn more about:
How to become a travel agent!
We are an IATAN, CLIA, ASTA, IATA Accrediated Travel Agency
See all awards & certificates.
Click on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
All of these are signs that you are a great fit to become an independent travel agent, and turn your love of travel from passion into profit!
Learn MoreOur motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
We know Europe! Paris, London, Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Swiss Alps, Prague, Amsterdam, Venice, Athens, Vienna, Madrid, let's go!
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Get A Free QuoteWe serve customers all across the USA
Debt free and in business since 2013. Vincent Vacations has agents in Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Shreveport, Little Rock, Roswell, Oklahoma City and more locations.
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own. All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US! Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team. We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service. We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group. Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
Free Vacation Package Quote
