Tasha Stahl. (Source: Tasha Stahl)
Travel Advisor Success Stories focus on veteran advisors and how they achieved success. Here’s a look at Tasha Stahl, owner of Pack and play Travel.
How did you get your start as a travel advisor?
My journey into the travel industry began in an unexpected way. While I was on bedrest with my youngest child. I had the urge to stay productive and contribute financially, but I was limited in what I could physically do. I’ve always been the go-to person for trip planning among friends and family – so turning that passion into a business felt like a natural next step.
During that time, I discovered KHM Travel and connected with its president and CEO, Rick Zimmerman, who played a huge role in inspiring my early steps. That spark quickly turned into a fire, and I knew I had found my calling.
A few years later, I launched my own agency – TLS Travel SD, LLC, doing business as Pack and Play Travel – and never looked back.
I officially started my travel advisor journey 10 years ago after realizing how much joy I found in curating experiences that brought people together. What began as a side hustle quickly turned into a full-time career fueled by curiosity, creativity and a love for helping others see the world.
How did you build your business over the years?
Brick by brick, with a lot of heart and hustle. I built Pack and Play Travel from the ground up, starting with just myself and now leading a team of three independent contractors, two full-time employees and three part-time employees. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Referrals and word of mouth have been the foundation of our growth. We’ve built trust through consistent, caring service and deep product knowledge, always going the extra mile to make our clients’ travel dreams a reality. That personal touch is what keeps people coming back – and telling their friends!
I also invested in education, developed strong supplier relationships and never stopped evolving. Staying consistent, showing up for my clients and always delivering more than expected helped me grow from a one-woman show to a trusted resource of staff members that make dream vacations for our clients.
What characteristics make you a successful advisor?
I’d say resilience, empathy and passion. Over the years, I’ve faced significant health challenges – including a stroke and heart surgery – and I’ve also cared for my amazing son, who has special needs and had several life-threatening illnesses. Through it all, I’ve stayed committed to showing up, learning and staying positive. I believe people feel that when they work with us.
I also credit my ability to lead with heart and serve with intention. And the heart my employees put into each adventure, too. We understand what it means to need flexibility, support and trust in your travel advisor – and we do everything we can to be that for our clients! We genuinely care about the people we work with. This isn’t just booking trips; it’s building experiences that often become lifelong memories.
What have been your greatest challenges?
Balancing life, business and health hasn’t always been easy. Raising four children, running a growing company and managing serious health battles have brought their own challenges. I needed a business that worked around my life, not the other way around – and that’s what I’ve built.
I also faced a lot of doubt from others early on, but I kept going even when people expected me to fail. And of course, like many of us, surviving the COVID-19 travel shutdown was one of the toughest hurdles to date, but we made it through, stronger and more committed than ever.
What have your greatest accomplishments been?
Celebrating 10 years in the industry this January felt like such a milestone. I’m proud of so many things: creating a supportive, passionate team I can count on when I need to step away; staying in business when the odds were stacked against me; and saying ‘yes’ to big dreams – like chartering my first private yacht in Croatia, which turned out to be a huge success.
But most of all, I feel accomplished when I get to help clients check off their bucket-list destinations, celebrate life’s big moments or reconnect as families. That’s the real reward.
What tips can you provide advisors new to the industry?
Start with heart and stay consistent. Be patient with the process and never stop learning. This isn’t just a job – it’s about building relationships and trust. Don’t be afraid to start small, lean into education and find a mentor if you can. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, and when the hard days come (because they will), don’t quit.
Your passion is your superpower. Also, never underestimate the value of service – it’s what sets you apart. You don’t have to be the biggest agency; just be the one that cares the most, listens the hardest and delivers with excellence. That’s how you’ll grow.
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