Tour operators may specialize in developing tour itineraries for specific destinations, while others provide support to customers traveling to many destinations. While a tour operator's roles can vary based on their position and employer, these professionals are commonly responsible for:

• Developing tour packages: These professionals develop tour packages for individual customers or groups of travelers. They work with customers to understand their interests and recommend a variety of attractions, accommodations and transportation options to help customers choose their tour packages.
• Negotiating rates: Tour operators commonly negotiate rates with other vendors, such as hotels and transportation companies. For example, they may ask a hotel to reduce rates for a block of rooms for a large group of travelers.
• Arranging travel: These professionals help arrange travel plans for customers so they can get to their destinations. For example, they may book train tickets to help customers travel between cities or reserve a rental car so customers can get to various attractions.
• Providing customer support: A tour operator provides customer support to help their clients prepare for trips. For example, they may answer customers' questions about a destination, provide information about currency exchange rates or notify them of any changes to an itinerary.
• Preparing tour budgets: Tour operators work with customers to help them prepare a budget for their tour. They develop different itineraries with varying price points and advise clients on accommodations and attractions within their preferred budget.
• Researching travel options: These professionals research various travel options to provide recommendations to their customers about where to visit, stay and eat on their tours. They read articles and search online for information about travel trends and new destinations to stay current in their field.
• handling bookings, invoicing and issuing of tickets
• predicting profits or number of bookings
• working with travel consultants from different travel agencies to put holiday packages together
• combining travel, accommodation and services such as sightseeing arrangements to create holiday packages.