Outside Agents vs KHM Travel Group: Complete Host Agency Comparison

When comparing Outside Agents vs KHM Travel Group, both host agencies offer excellent opportunities for travel professionals, but Outside Agents stands out with over 30 years of industry experience (founded 1992), supporting over 5,000 agents nationwide, while KHM Travel Group, established in 2005, focuses on a "People First" mindset with innovative education programs for 4,500+ agents across the United States.

The travel industry has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, and choosing the right host agency can make or break your career as a travel professional. Whether you're a seasoned travel agent looking to switch hosts or a newcomer exploring your options, the decision between Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group represents one of the most important choices you'll make in your travel career.

Both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group rank among America's premier host agencies, each offering unique advantages, comprehensive support systems, and proven track records of success. This detailed comparison will help you understand the key differences, similarities, and unique value propositions of each agency to make an informed decision that aligns with your professional goals and business objectives.

Overview of Host Agencies in the Travel Industry
Outside Agents: Company Profile and History
KHM Travel Group: Company Profile and History
Commission Structures and Compensation Comparison
Training and Education Programs
Technology and Marketing Support
Agent Support and Community
Industry Recognition and Awards
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Between Outside Agents and KHM Travel
Pros and Cons Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Recommendations

Overview of Host Agencies in the Travel Industry

Host agencies serve as the backbone for independent travel agents, providing essential services including booking platforms, vendor relationships, commission processing, marketing tools, and ongoing education. The relationship between a travel agent and their host agency is crucial for business success, as it directly impacts earning potential, client service capabilities, and professional development opportunities.

In today's competitive travel landscape, both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group have established themselves as industry leaders, each supporting thousands of successful travel professionals. Understanding their differences will help you determine which agency aligns better with your specific needs, experience level, and career aspirations.

Outside Agents: Company Profile and History

Founded in 1992, Outside Agents has grown to be one of America's favorite host agencies, supporting over 5,000 agents nationwide. With more than three decades of industry experience, Outside Agents has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and comprehensive agent support.

Key Features of Outside Agents:

Established Track Record: Our award-winning training platform has launched the businesses of travel agents, both new and seasoned, into unparalleled success. The company's longevity in the industry speaks to its stability and ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

Technology Platform: OutsideAgents.com offers its customers an online permission-based travel agency operations and content management software platform. This comprehensive platform streamlines business operations for their affiliated agents.

Industry Recognition: We have countless industry awards that speak for us. Outside Agents has received numerous accolades throughout its history, demonstrating consistent excellence in service delivery and agent support.

Agent Community: Along with this platform, our robust suite of business management and marketing tools and agent community makes us an unbeatable force in the travel industry. The emphasis on community building sets Outside Agents apart from many competitors.

KHM Travel Group: Company Profile and History

KHM Travel Group is one of the nation's leading host travel agencies, currently supporting 4,500+ home-based travel agents across the United States. Led by a People First mindset since 2005, KHM Travel Group has established itself as an innovative force in the host agency space.

Key Features of KHM Travel Group:

People-First Philosophy: As a leader in personal travel advisor development, KHM Travel Group offers high commission, marketing resources, and unlimited support. This approach emphasizes individual agent success and personal development.

Educational Excellence: With an innovative program and strong industry partnerships, we empower travel advisors through our comprehensive online education and unique in-person events. KHM's educational approach focuses on both online and in-person learning opportunities.

Award-Winning Status: KHM Travel Group is an award-winning host travel agency, recognized for its innovative approaches to agent support and development.

Diversity and Inclusion: Our Core Values and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion drive the team's passion for helping others experience the world. KHM actively promotes inclusive practices within their agent network.

Commission Structures and Compensation Comparison

Step 1: Understanding Commission Models

When evaluating Outside Agents vs KHM Travel Group, commission structure represents one of the most critical factors in your decision-making process. Both agencies offer competitive commission rates, but their approaches differ significantly.

Outside Agents Commission Structure: Outside Agents typically offers tiered commission structures that reward high-performing agents with increased earning potential. Their system includes:

Base commission rates competitive with industry standards
Performance bonuses for achieving sales milestones
Override opportunities for experienced agents
Transparent payment processing with minimal delays

KHM Travel Group Commission Structure: KHM Travel Group offers high commission, focusing on maximizing agent earnings through:

Competitive base commission rates
Performance incentives tied to sales volume
Special bonuses for specific product categories
Regular commission reviews and adjustments

Step 2: Analyzing Payment Processing

Both agencies provide reliable payment processing systems, but their approaches to commission disbursement vary:

Outside Agents Payment System: Their payment system is top-notch with very little room for confusion, ensuring agents receive their earnings promptly and accurately.

KHM Travel Group Payment Processing: KHM emphasizes transparency in their payment processing, with regular updates and clear communication regarding commission calculations and disbursement schedules.

Training and Education Programs

Step 3: Evaluating Training Opportunities

Education and training represent crucial differentiators between Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group, as both agencies recognize that agent success depends heavily on continuous learning and skill development.

Outside Agents Training Program: Our award-winning training platform has launched the businesses of travel agents, both new and seasoned, into unparalleled success. Their comprehensive training includes:

Structured onboarding programs for new agents
Advanced training modules for experienced professionals
Regular webinars and educational sessions
Industry certification preparation
Mentorship programs connecting new agents with experienced professionals

KHM Travel Group Education System: The education I am getting right now is phenomenal. Although being in this industry for 5 years, I have never gotten the resources nor the education that I am receiving now. KHM's educational approach features:

Comprehensive online education platforms
Unique in-person training events
Regular Facebook Live sessions with industry leaders
Personalized mentoring programs
Continuous curriculum updates reflecting industry changes

Step 4: Assessing Ongoing Support

Both agencies provide ongoing educational support, but their delivery methods and focus areas differ:

Outside Agents Ongoing Support:

Regular platform updates and training
Industry trend analysis and education
Vendor-specific training programs
Technology platform tutorials and support

KHM Travel Group Ongoing Support: The communication through Agent to Agent, Webinars, and Facebook Live with Bill Coyle, is what I need and I will go as far to say what every Agent needs demonstrates their commitment to continuous education and communication.

Technology and Marketing Support

Step 5: Technology Platform Comparison

Technology infrastructure plays a crucial role in modern travel agency operations, and both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group invest heavily in technological solutions.

Outside Agents Technology Suite: Along with this platform, our robust suite of business management and marketing tools and agent community makes us an unbeatable force in the travel industry. Their technology offerings include:

Comprehensive booking platforms
Customer relationship management systems
Marketing automation tools
Financial reporting and analytics
Mobile-responsive agent portals

KHM Travel Group Technology Support: We are constantly providing our agents with updated technology and support resources that they can use to serve their clients better, be more efficient, and reach their goals. Their technological approach includes:

Advanced booking and reservation systems
Integrated marketing platforms
Client management tools
Performance analytics and reporting
Mobile applications for on-the-go access

Step 6: Marketing Support Evaluation

Effective marketing support helps agents build their businesses and attract clients consistently.

Outside Agents Marketing Support:

Professional website templates and customization
Social media marketing tools and templates
Email marketing platforms and campaigns
Brand-compliant marketing materials
SEO optimization tools and guidance

KHM Travel Group Marketing Resources: KHM Travel Group offers high commission, marketing resources, and unlimited support, including:

Customizable marketing materials
Digital marketing training and support
Brand development assistance
Lead generation tools and strategies
Social media content and templates

Agent Support and Community

Step 7: Support System Analysis

The quality and accessibility of support systems can significantly impact your success as a travel agent.

Outside Agents Support Structure: Agency staff and higher-ups are almost always available for insight and help as and when needed. They are highly professional (yet super funny on socials). Their support system features:

Dedicated support teams with industry expertise
Multi-channel communication options (phone, email, chat)
Rapid response times for urgent inquiries
Escalation procedures for complex issues
Regular check-ins with agent success managers

KHM Travel Group Support Philosophy: KHM Travel Group is a Host Agency where they have their Agents' best interest at heart, demonstrated through:

Unlimited support availability
Personalized guidance and mentoring
Proactive outreach and assistance
Problem-solving expertise across multiple travel sectors
Regular feedback collection and service improvement

Step 8: Community and Networking

Professional networking and community support enhance agent success and job satisfaction.

Outside Agents Community: I had a chance to meet most of the staff at one of their TA conferences and the vibe is that of one big family. Their community building includes:

Annual conferences and networking events
Regional meetups and training sessions
Online forums and discussion groups
Mentorship programs pairing new and experienced agents
Recognition programs celebrating agent achievements

KHM Travel Group Community: The agency emphasizes agent-to-agent communication and support through:

Interactive webinars and training sessions
Facebook Live events with leadership
Peer mentoring programs
Regional networking opportunities
Success story sharing and recognition

Industry Recognition and Awards

Step 9: Evaluating Industry Standing

Industry recognition serves as an important indicator of agency quality, reliability, and agent satisfaction.

Outside Agents Recognition: We have countless industry awards that speak for us, demonstrating consistent excellence across multiple categories including:

Host agency performance awards
Technology innovation recognition
Agent satisfaction ratings
Industry leadership acknowledgments
Customer service excellence awards

KHM Travel Group Recognition: KHM Travel Group is an award-winning host travel agency, with recognition in areas such as:

Educational program excellence
Agent development initiatives
Diversity and inclusion practices
Innovation in agent support services
Community building and networking programs

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Between Outside Agents and KHM Travel

Step 10: Assessment Framework

To make an informed decision between Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group, follow this systematic evaluation process:

1. Define Your Professional Goals:

Identify your target income objectives
Determine your preferred client types and travel niches
Assess your technology comfort level and requirements
Consider your desired level of support and guidance

2. Evaluate Your Experience Level:

New agents may benefit more from comprehensive training programs
Experienced agents might prioritize higher commission structures
Consider your existing client base and transfer requirements
Assess your marketing and business development needs

3. Compare Commission Structures:

Calculate potential earnings under each agency's structure
Consider performance bonuses and incentive programs
Evaluate payment processing speed and reliability
Review override opportunities for long-term earning potential

4. Assess Training and Support Needs:

Compare educational program comprehensiveness
Evaluate ongoing training availability and quality
Consider mentorship program availability
Review support accessibility and responsiveness

5. Technology and Marketing Evaluation:

Compare platform functionality and user-friendliness
Assess marketing tool availability and effectiveness
Review mobile app capabilities and features
Consider integration with existing business systems

Pros and Cons Analysis

Outside Agents Advantages:

Established Experience: Over 30 years in the industry provides stability and proven systems
Large Agent Network: 5,000+ agents create extensive networking opportunities
Award-Winning Platform: Recognized training and technology systems
Family Atmosphere: Strong community culture and support system
Professional Support: Highly accessible and knowledgeable support team

Outside Agents Potential Considerations:

Larger agency size may mean less personalized attention
Established systems may be less flexible for unique needs
Higher competition among agents within the network

KHM Travel Group Advantages:

People-First Philosophy: Emphasis on individual agent development and success
Innovative Education: Cutting-edge training programs and continuous learning
High Commission Structure: Competitive earning potential for agents
Diversity and Inclusion: Strong commitment to inclusive practices
Unlimited Support: Comprehensive assistance without restrictions

KHM Travel Group Potential Considerations:

Newer agency (2005) with less long-term track record
Smaller agent network may limit networking opportunities
Rapid growth may strain support systems during peak periods

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which agency offers better commission rates? Both agencies offer competitive commission structures, but the better choice depends on your sales volume, experience level, and preferred payment structure. Request specific commission schedules from both agencies to make accurate comparisons.

Q: How long does training take with each agency? Training duration varies based on your experience level and chosen program depth. Both agencies offer accelerated options for experienced agents and comprehensive programs for newcomers.

Q: Can I switch between agencies later? Yes, agents can typically switch host agencies, though you should review contract terms, non-compete clauses, and client transfer policies before making changes.

Q: Which agency is better for new travel agents? Both agencies excel at supporting new agents, but KHM's "People First" approach and innovative education programs may provide additional benefits for those just starting their careers.

Q: Do both agencies support all travel types? Yes, both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group support comprehensive travel services including cruises, vacation packages, tours, honeymoons, and group travel.

Final Recommendations

The choice between Outside Agents vs KHM Travel Group ultimately depends on your individual needs, career stage, and professional preferences. Both agencies offer excellent opportunities for travel professionals, with proven track records of agent success and comprehensive support systems.

Choose Outside Agents if:

You value established industry experience and stability
You prefer a larger agent community for networking
You appreciate award-winning, proven systems and platforms
You want access to extensive industry relationships and vendor partnerships
You thrive in a family-oriented community atmosphere

Choose KHM Travel Group if:

You prioritize innovative education and training programs
You value a "People First" approach to agent development
You prefer more personalized attention and unlimited support
You appreciate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
You want access to cutting-edge technology and support resources

Making Your Decision

As with owning any business, it takes time and money in order to be successful. Regardless of which agency you choose, success in the travel industry requires dedication, continuous learning, and commitment to client service excellence.

Consider scheduling calls with representatives from both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group to discuss your specific situation, ask detailed questions about their programs, and get a feel for their company cultures. Many successful travel agents also recommend speaking with current agents from both agencies to gain firsthand insights into the day-to-day experience of working with each host.

Remember that your choice of host agency represents a significant business decision that will impact your earning potential, professional development, and career trajectory. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate both options, and don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about commission structures, support availability, training programs, and technology platforms.

The travel industry continues to evolve rapidly, and both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group demonstrate strong commitments to helping their agents adapt, grow, and succeed in this dynamic environment. Whichever agency you choose, focus on maximizing the available resources, actively participating in training programs, and building strong relationships within your chosen community.

Your success as a travel professional depends not just on choosing the right host agency, but also on your commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and exceptional client service. Both Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group provide the foundation for success – the rest is up to your dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.