From fostering a sense of community to promoting cultural change and environmental consciousness, female-owned travel companies are contributing to a more vibrant and equitable industry
In a world that knows no bounds, women are emerging as leaders in the travel industry by shattering stereotypes, breaking barriers and changing the way people experience the world. Women make 80% of the decisions in travel, but have been underrepresented when it comes to marketing and leadership in the industry. In recent years, the number of female-owned companies in the travel business has increased by 260%. The rise of female representation in travel is not just proof of the entrepreneurial spirit, but also a celebration of diversity and innovation in an industry traditionally dominated by male voices. These women are not just creating a business for themselves. They are crafting unique travel experiences that resonate with the modern adventurer.
As women continue to shape the future of travel, their stories inspire not only those with a passion for exploration but also anyone seeking inspiration for redefining success in the entrepreneurial world. From boutique travel companies creating culturally immersive itineraries to adventure companies committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, these businesses are platforms for empowerment. Join us on this journey of recognizing leaders of these female-owned companies in the travel business that prove the world is not just meant to be explored, but experienced.
Wanderful
The very beginning of this women-owned travel company began in 2009 off Africa’s west coast. Founder and CEO Beth Santos was living in a small two-island nation called Sao Tome and Principe. She noticed that women are usually faced with travel content focusing on either fashion or safety instead of experiences, knowledge and resources. What originally started as a travel blog exploring diverse and shared experiences of women traveling the world, grew into a community of over 45,000 members. The Wanderful community supports, shares resources and builds sisterhood between women.
The network of women encourages growth and success by providing resources to build healthy and thriving businesses in the travel industry, especially among digital content creators. The member portal provides 24/7 access to travel tips for destinations that community members have visited. Wish you had a friend traveling alongside you? With over 50 chapters worldwide, you’ll find a live group of friends no matter the city you visit. The company also recognizes those outside of the Wanderful community through the creation of the Women in Travel Summit, an event connecting travel influencers, businesses and brands. Additionally, Wanderful created Wanderfest, the first outdoor travel festival for women, and The Bessie Awards, a way of honoring travel influencers, bloggers and entrepreneurs. (sheswanderful.com)
Kind Traveler
This veteran and women-owned travel company is the first responsible platform empowering travelers to positively impact the environment and communities local to the destinations they visit. Established in 2016 by Co-Founder and CEO Jessica Blotter, Kind Traveler focuses its efforts on achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The idea for the company began on a trip to Belize where Blotter witnessed heartbreaking poverty, polluted swamps and emaciated dogs wandering the streets for food. Blotter decided to buy food and feed the starving dogs, creating a chain reaction within the entire travel group. She began brainstorming ways travelers could easily leave a positive impact on communities they visit.
Kind Traveler does exactly that through their Give + Get hotel booking platform. This platform offers over 350 Kind Hotels – those that commit to sustainability and community impact – providing exclusive rates and perks for travelers who make a $10 donation to a charity that positively impacts the local community. Travelers receive impact metrics explaining where and how their dollars are being used within the community. Launched in September 2023, the Every Stay Gives Back impact program features a collection of destinations and resorts that donate to local charities for every guest stay, regardless of where or how one books their trip. In this program, Kind Traveler acts as a third party validation based on monthly donation receipts submitted by participating organizations. Blotter has not only become a pioneer in female-owned companies in travel, but also in traveling sustainably. (kindtraveler.com)
Fit & Fly
Before co-founding Fit & Fly, Rebecca Garland practiced law for over 15 years. After her first women’s retreat on a trip to Bali, she recognized the strong bonds formed between women with a passion for travel, health, and overall wellness leading her to create Fit & Fly. Founded with a passion for promoting holistic well-being, this woman-owned travel company fosters transformative travel experiences that seamlessly integrate fitness, cultural exploration, wellness, nutrition, adventure and pampering. As one of the few companies focusing on wellness travel, Fit & Fly caters to women seeking a balance of physical activity, cultural immersion and self-discovery.
A diverse range of itineraries includes everything from rejuvenating yoga retreats to invigorating fitness boot camps in breathtaking locations across the globe. The company stands out for its commitment to a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Beyond physical activities, the business emphasizes community, encouraging connections beyond the trip itself. From Scotland all the way to South Africa, this woman-owned travel company is spreading a refreshing perspective on the intersection of health, adventure and exploring new places. (fitandflygirl.com)
Adventures in Good Company
Longing to share her passion for outdoor travel, Marian Marbury founded this women-owned travel company in 1999. Marbury had a vision to provide a space where women could explore the world with like-minded individuals. While most travel companies focus on the destination, Adventures in Good Company fosters trust, diversity and connection among travelers. What makes this company unique is its commitment to creating a safe and supportive community for women travelers while striving to be inclusive. Itineraries are organized either by destination, activity level or type of activity, making it easy to plan a trip regardless of age, background or experience. Whether it’s hiking through breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersions or thrilling outdoor activities, AGC is a path to sisterhood and self discovery.
Women from all walks of life are welcome in this community. Led by a team of passionate and experienced women, AGC promotes resiliency and failing forward to overcome setbacks that appear along the journey. They offer more than just a vacation. They provide transformative journeys that encourage self discovery by challenging your limits. In 2020, Marbury passed on her leadership role in the company to Kelly Kimple, bringing fresh energy and commitment to the company’s values. From the U.S. to the Caribbean to Africa, this women-owned travel company is at the forefront in redefining adventure travel for women across the globe. (adventuresingoodcompany.com)
The rise of female-owned companies in the travel business marks a transformative shift in the industry. The success of these women proves that diverse and inclusive leadership enriches the travel industry and fosters human connection, a global community and shared adventures.
By Debbie Taylor
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