Merchant Account for Travel Agencies
What is a merchant account for travel agencies?
A merchant account for travel agencies enables you to take secure card payments for bookings, tours and travel services. Because the travel sector is classified as high risk in the UK and Europe, We Tranxact Ltd connects travel businesses with specialist acquirers who understand advance bookings, cancellations, rolling reserves and global transactions.
Related services: High-Risk Merchant Accounts • Ecommerce Payments • Open Banking Payments
Authoritative sources: FCA – Payment Services Regulations • Visa – Chargeback Guidance
High Risk Merchant Accounts for Travel Businesses
Operating a travel agency comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to securing a reliable high-risk merchant account. The travel industry is often classified as high risk due to fluctuating transaction volumes, chargeback risks and advance bookings. At We Tranxact, we specialise in brokering high-risk payment solutions specifically for travel agents, connecting you with payment providers who understand and are prepared for the complexities of your industry.
Fill out our inquiry form below to learn how We Tranxact can connect your travel agency with the right high-risk payment provider for secure, reliable and scalable payment processing.
Merchant Account For Travel Agencies
As a travel agent and a high-risk merchant, we understand your need for a reliable card payment processing solution. Because your business is classified as high risk, you will require a high-risk merchant account for travel agents.
High-risk businesses, including travel agencies, often face unique challenges when seeking merchant services. Payment providers may request a security bond or deposit, sometimes amounting to tens of thousands. Additionally, a rolling reserve fund of up to 10% of weekly sales may be held for up to 180 days, depending on your trading and processing history.
The rolling reserve involves setting aside a percentage of deposits to be held for approximately six months on a revolving basis. As one reserve is released, another is held back. This provides collateral to acquiring banks and helps mitigate risk.
Regardless of your service — whether a travel agency or tour operator — you can rely on us to find a dependable merchant account provider. We specialise in securing high-risk merchant accounts so your travel business can process payments efficiently and securely.
Why Do Travel Agents Need a High-Risk Merchant Account?
The travel industry is classified as high risk due to:
- High Chargeback Rates: Travel bookings are prone to cancellations and disputes.
- Seasonal Demand: Transaction volumes fluctuate with seasonality and global events.
- Advance Bookings: Payments made far in advance carry financial exposure.
A high-risk merchant account provides enhanced security, chargeback management and adaptable gateways tailored to these challenges.
Benefits of a High-Risk Merchant Account for Travel Agents
With a high-risk merchant account for your travel agency, you gain:
- Increased Approval Rates: More travel businesses are approved compared to traditional banks.
- Enhanced Cash Flow: Faster processing helps stabilise revenue.
- Scalability: Handle higher volume and complex bookings as your agency grows.
We help travel businesses secure the right payment solution for their model.
How Does a High-Risk Merchant Account for Travel Agents Work?
A high-risk merchant account is structured to handle the complexities of the travel sector. When you work with We Tranxact, we match your agency with payment providers offering:
- Fraud Prevention Tools: Protect against fraudulent bookings.
- Flexible Payment Options: Multi-channel card processing.
- Chargeback Management: Tools to reduce disputes and safeguard revenue.
Key Features of High-Risk Merchant Accounts for Travel Agencies
- Multi-Currency Processing: Accept global payments for international bookings.
- Advanced Security: Strong fraud protection and screening.
- Adaptable Billing Options: Manage seasonal changes and irregular booking patterns.
Why Are Travel Businesses Classified as High Risk?
- Industry Challenges: High ticket values and advance payments.
- High Chargebacks: More cancellations compared to other industries.
- Seasonal & Economic Factors: Cash flow influenced by global conditions.
Differences Between High-Risk & Low-Risk Merchant Accounts
- Fees & Rates: Higher to offset provider risk.
- Chargeback Management: More tools and oversight.
- Contract Terms: Often longer or more restrictive.
How Should I Choose a High-Risk Merchant Account for My Travel Business?
- Industry Experience
- Competitive Rates
- Chargeback Mitigation
- Strong Support
How to Apply for a High-Risk Merchant Account for Travel Agencies
- Complete the inquiry form
- Consultation and review
- Provider match
- Account setup
Travel Merchant Account FAQs
Why are travel agencies high risk?
Because payments are made in advance, cancellations are common and chargeback ratios are higher than average.
How long does approval take?
Most accounts are approved in 3–7 days depending on underwriting.
Do travel businesses need a rolling reserve?
Often yes. Reserves help acquirers manage financial exposure from advance bookings.
Can travel merchants accept multiple currencies?
Yes. GBP, EUR, USD and additional currencies are supported depending on provider.
Can you support MOTO and online bookings?
Yes. We support ecommerce, MOTO and multi-channel travel payments.
Get A Travel Merchant Account Set Up