How Travel Agents Access Net Rates — And Why You Can Too
Travel agents have always had access to better prices. Here's exactly how they get them — and why EezyStay membership now gives you the same access tier.
The Travel Agent's Toolkit
Licensed travel agents access net rates through:
IATA Accreditation
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) issues accreditation to qualified travel agencies. This unlocks airline net rates — fares below published prices that agents can sell to clients while keeping a margin.
GDS Systems
Global Distribution Systems like Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport are the backbone of travel agent bookings. These systems show fare classes and availability that consumer-facing websites don't display — including wholesale/net fares.
Hotel Wholesaler Portals
Agents access wholesale hotel inventory through platforms like Hotelbeds, WebBeds, and Tourico. These portals show the hotel's net rate — the same pricing that EezyStay members see.
Consolidator Relationships
Established agents have direct relationships with flight and hotel consolidators who offer net-net pricing — the absolute lowest tier, reserved for high-volume sellers.
The Pricing Tiers
Tier 1: Net-net rate (high-volume agents, consolidators)
Tier 2: Net rate (standard agents, wholesale clubs) ← EezyStay members
Tier 3: Published fare minus commission (online agents)
Tier 4: Published fare (retail consumer booking sites)
EezyStay membership places you at Tier 2 — the same level as a standard licensed travel agent. On most bookings, the gap between Tier 2 and Tier 4 is 15-30%.
Why Agents Are Losing Their Pricing Edge
The travel industry is democratising. Wholesale clubs and membership platforms are making net rates accessible to consumers. Agents can no longer rely on pricing exclusivity — they need to add value through expertise and service.
What This Means for You
You don't need: - An IATA card - A travel agency license - GDS training - Wholesaler contracts - Industry relationships
You need a $147 membership. That's it.
The Markup Chain You're Skipping
Why Hotels Offer These Rates
Join EezyStay and access travel agent rates without being one. Start your membership →
Related Reading
- Travel Agent Prices Without Being a Travel Agent — Here's How
- The Travel Industry Markup Chain — And How to Skip It
- Why Hotels Sell Rooms at Wholesale — And How You Can Access Them
- Back to EezyStay Home
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IATA accreditation?
IATA accreditation is the International Air Transport Association's licensing for travel agencies, which grants access to airline net rates and GDS booking systems.
Do I need industry credentials to get wholesale rates?
No. EezyStay membership provides access to the same net-rate pricing tier without any industry licensing or accreditation.
What are GDS systems?
Global Distribution Systems (Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport) are reservation networks used by travel agents to access airline and hotel inventory at trade rates.