How to Know Your Travel Advisor Is Legitimate (And Why It Matters to Me)
I've heard and read stories in the news and on social media of travelers being taken advantage of, and that breaks my heart as a professional in the industry. I take great pride and joy in allowing for someone to be refreshed, restored, and renewed—and to hear when someone lost their hard-earned money due to fraudulent activities? It breaks my heart for the client and angers me on behalf of us professionals within the industry.
This blog post is probably one of the most meaningful posts I will ever write. Because I want everyone to experience the joys of traveling. I want everyone to experience the rejuvenation of seeing a new place. And I hate that there have been situations where that gift has been taken away.
Here's the hard truth: In the United States, there is no federal license required to call yourself a travel advisor. Anyone can create an Instagram account, slap on that title, and start taking your money. There's no bar exam. No standardized testing. No government oversight that says, "This person knows what they're doing."
That keeps me up at night. Because I care about you—the traveler—more than I care about booking your trip. I want you to come home safe, happy, and already dreaming about your next adventure. Not stressed, scammed, or stuck on hold with customer service for hours.
So today, I'm sharing some key ways to help you verify if your travel advisor is legitimate. These aren't hard-and-fast rules, and not having every single item on this list doesn't automatically mean someone is untrustworthy—especially if they're just starting out. But these are strong guidelines that can help you feel more secure and confident in your decision. Think of this as your toolkit for asking the right questions and making informed choices.
Start Here: ASTA Membership (Your First Line of Defense)
The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is the largest professional association for travel advisors in the U.S.—and it's a great place to start your verification.
Here's why ASTA matters to you, the traveler:
Code of Ethics: Every ASTA member agrees to a 12-point Code of Ethics that puts your interests first.
Dispute Resolution: If something goes wrong (and I hope it never does), ASTA provides a formal process for filing complaints and seeking recourse.
Congressional Advocacy: ASTA doesn't just vet advisors—they go to Washington to fight for laws that protect you from unfair airline refund policies, hidden fees, and predatory practices.
Think of ASTA as your consumer watchdog. They're literally in Congress right now pushing for the Flight Refund Fairness Act and fighting for travel advisors to have a seat at the table when the Department of Transportation makes decisions that affect your rights.
Your Action Step: Go to asta.org and use their "Find a Travel Advisor" directory. Type in your advisor's name or agency. If they're listed, that's a positive sign of professionalism. If they're not there? It doesn't automatically mean they're not legitimate—but it's worth asking about their professional affiliations.
Want to verify me specifically? You can find my profile on ASTA's website here:
ASTA Member Directory – Shanina Leaks / ReThreeTravel
(search for "Shanina Leaks" or "ReThreeTravel" in their directory).
The Gold Standard: Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) Credential
Now, let's go deeper. Within ASTA, there's a credential called VTA—Verified Travel Advisor—and it's one of the highest marks of professionalism in our industry.
I'm proud to say I hold this credential with ReThreeTravel. And here's what it took to earn it:
Minimum 2 years of experience in the travel industry
Completion of 9 rigorous courses on legal compliance, ethics, regulatory standards, and consumer protection
Proven sales track record (some sources cite a $500,000 minimum in verified travel sales)
Ongoing continuing education to maintain the credential
Here's the part that really matters: As of 2026, only about 1,300 active VTAs exist nationwide. Out of an estimated 245,000 travel advisors in the U.S., that's less than 1%.
When you work with a VTA, you're working with someone who's proven themselves—not just with words, but with years of experience, education, and accountability.
Important Note: Not having a VTA credential doesn't mean an advisor is fraudulent. Many excellent advisors are newer to the industry or are working toward this designation. But if your advisor has it, that's a strong signal of experience and commitment.
Your Action Step: When you search the ASTA directory, look for the VTA designation next to your advisor's name. If they have it, celebrate—you've found a pro. If they don't? Ask them about their experience, training, and professional development. A legitimate advisor will be happy to share.
Seller of Travel Registration: A Legal Safeguard Worth Knowing About
Here's something many travelers don't know: Some states require travel advisors to register as a "Seller of Travel" before selling to their residents.
Why does this matter to you? Because these states often require:
Financial safeguards (like surety bonds or trust accounts that protect your money)
Registration numbers on advertising and contracts (so you can verify legitimacy)
State-level oversight (accountability if something goes wrong)
I do have the necessary Seller of Travel registrations where required through a host agency. It's not just compliance—it's peace of mind for you.
Professional Infrastructure: What Legitimate Advisors Often Invest In
Here are some signals that the travel advisor (agent) you are working with takes their role in this industry seriously -
A Professional Website
I've invested in a real website—not just an Instagram page or a free template. Why? Because I believe if I want you to trust me with thousands of your dollars and handle the logistics of your precious time there should be some evidence that I have invested money and energy into this business. It's where you'll find my contact information, services, policies, and credentials—all verifiable and transparent.
Important Note: Some excellent advisors are just starting out and may not have a website yet. They might be building their business while working another job or focusing on word-of-mouth referrals. A website is a strong positive signal, but its absence doesn't automatically mean someone is untrustworthy.
Secure Payment Processing
I use a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system that's compliant with industry security standards. Your credit card information is not sent via text, email, or Zelle. It's transmitted through encrypted, secure channels that protect your data.
Written Contracts and Receipts
When working with ReThreeTravel, you will receive Terms and Conditions and other documents to make sure there is a clear understanding about our process—and you will know exactly what to expect and what services I am offering. When there is a transaction—whether you are paying a planning fee or making a payment to a supplier—you will receive a receipt. This protects both of us and ensures clarity from the start.
Business Email and Phone
I use a professional email address (shanina@rethreetravel.com) and a dedicated business phone number. If you need to reach me, you'll know exactly how.
Red Flags to Watch For (regardless of experience level):
Requests for payment via wire transfer, gift cards, Zelle, Venmo, or cryptocurrency
No written contract or receipt for payments.
Pressure to pay immediately without time to review terms
The FTC has explicitly warned: "Only scammers say the only way to pay is by wire transfer, gift card, payment app, or cryptocurrency." These methods are irreversible. Once the money's gone, it's gone.
Your Action Step: I encourage travelers to use credit cards when possible. It offers fraud protection that wire transfers and gift cards simply don't provide.
Why I Charge a Consultation Fee (And Why Many Pros Do, Too)
Let's talk about fees—because I know this can be a sensitive topic.
According to ASTA, approximately 80% of professional travel advisors now charge consultation or planning fees. And here's why:
When you work with me, I'm not just "clicking a button" to book your trip. I'm spending hours—sometimes days—researching destinations, comparing suppliers, checking visa requirements, verifying safety protocols, and building an itinerary that fits your budget, your timeline, and your dreams.
I'm making sure you won't arrive at your resort at 11 PM after three connecting flights with a toddler. I'm making sure your passport won't expire mid-trip. I'm making sure the excursion you booked actually exists and has good reviews. While you are at your destination I will be able to help you if you need it.
That work has value. And charging a fee allows me to invest in the systems, education, and support that keep you safe and satisfied.
Important Note: Not all advisors charge fees—some earn their income entirely through commissions from suppliers. Both models are legitimate. What matters is transparency: your advisor should clearly explain their fee structure upfront and put it in writing.
Your Action Step: Don't be alarmed if your advisor charges a consultation fee. Ask what it covers, get it in writing, and understand that it's often a sign of professionalism—not a red flag.
Reviews and Reputation: What to Look For (And What to Avoid)
Real professionals build verifiable track records. Here's how to spot them:
Third-Party Review Platforms
I encourage my clients to leave reviews on third-party platforms like ASTA's member directory and other verified review sites. Why? Because these platforms often require account verification, which makes reviews harder to fake than anonymous testimonials on a personal website.
Consistent Review History
Look for detailed, recent reviews across multiple platforms. A legitimate advisor will have a history of happy clients willing to vouch for their work.
Professional Presence
I have a business email and a direct phone number. These aren't just contact details—they're signals that I'm invested in my business and accountable to my clients.
Important Note: Newer advisors may not have many reviews yet—and that's okay. Look for other signals of professionalism, like clear communication, transparency about credentials, and willingness to answer your questions.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Only anonymous testimonials on a website (no third-party verification)
Reluctance to provide references or share past client experiences
Vague or generic responses to specific questions about their experience
Your Action Step: Search your advisor's name + "reviews" on multiple platforms. Look for patterns. Are clients happy? Do they mention specific details about their trips? Or are the reviews vague and generic?
Data Privacy: How I Protect Your Sensitive Information
This is personal for me. I handle your passport numbers, credit card details, and travel itineraries. That's incredibly sensitive information—and I take my responsibility seriously.
Here's what I do to protect you:
Encrypted systems: I use secure file-sharing platforms and encrypted communication tools.
No sensitive data via email or text: I never send passport copies or credit card numbers through unencrypted channels.
VPN and screen protection: I use a VPN and screen protectors to ensure electronic safety when handling your information.
Your Action Step: Ask your advisor how they protect your data. A legitimate professional will have clear policies in place and will be happy to explain them.
Your Verification Checklist (Use This as a Guide, Not a Rulebook)
Before you book with any travel advisor, run through this list. Keep in mind: not every item needs to be checked off for an advisor to be legitimate. These are positive signals that can help you feel more confident—but they're not absolutes.
ASTA membership verified via asta.org
VTA credential confirmed (if applicable)
Seller of Travel registration (if selling to CA, FL, HI, or WA)
Professional website with clear contact info and policiesavoidtravelscam+1
Secure payment methods (credit card, not wire/gift card/Zelle)
Written contract and receipt for all feesavoidtravelscam+1
Verifiable reviews on third-party platforms like ASTA or similar sites
Business email and phone (not free services)
Data privacy policies explained and documented
If your advisor checks many of these boxes? That's a strong positive signal.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, ask questions. A legitimate advisor will welcome your curiosity and will be happy to provide clarity.
Why I Do This Work (And Why Verification Matters to Me)
I didn't become a travel advisor to push buttons and collect commissions. I became a travel advisor because I believe in the transformative power of travel.
I've read the headlines. I've seen the posts. And every time I hear about a traveler who was taken advantage of, it breaks my heart for them—and it makes me more determined to be the kind of professional who earns trust, not the kind who exploits it.
That's why I invest in my credentials. That's why I maintain secure systems. That's why I'm transparent about my fees, my policies, and my protections.
Because you deserve better than a scam. You deserve a partner who cares about your experience as much as you do.
I am honored and (even impressed) that you have read this far because I know this is pretty long…(believe it or not I cut this down by a page).
I am sincerely wishing you amazing travels around the world and experiences that take your breath away!
