Are you a vacation rental owner or manager looking to boost your occupancy rates and fill those last-minute vacancies? The travel industry is witnessing a rise in spontaneous travelers who are seeking flexible and spur-of-the-moment getaways and looking to find last-minute vacation rentals. Capturing the attention of these last-minute bookers can significantly impact your short-term rental business helping you to maximize occupancy rates and revenue.
In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies to attract impulsive travelers and secure more last-minute bookings for your vacation rentals. By implementing these tips and techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to optimize your property’s visibility, offer irresistible deals, and create a sense of urgency that will have guests scrambling to book your property for their next spontaneous adventure.
Seven ways to attract last-minute bookings
1. Optimize your online presence
To attract last-minute bookings, it is crucial to have a strong online presence. Start by ensuring your vacation rental listing is enticing, accurate, and up-to-date on popular platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO. Listing on multiple channels expands your audience and creates greater booking potential to help you fill those gaps. While this can create more work and open you up to the potential of double bookings, using a channel manager such as Guesty, will allow you to unify your calendars and streamline and automate multi-channel operations.
Make sure that your listings will attract potential guests by using high-quality photos that showcase the unique features and amenities of your property. Make sure your listing description is compelling, highlighting the key selling points and emphasizing the value you offer for last-minute travelers.
2. Offer last-minute deals and discounts
Create a sense of urgency by offering special deals and discounts for last-minute bookings during the dates your property is vacant. Consider offering discounted rates for open dates within the next few weeks or offering additional perks such as complimentary late check-out or welcome amenities. Think outside the box by pairing your rental with a local event, restaurant or experience, or include a tee time to a nearby golf course with the reservation of your property. Your pairing may change depending on the season, but think about what might entice those last-minute travelers to book and proactively create partnerships in your community to make it happen.
Promote these offers on your website, social media channels, and email newsletters to capture the attention of potential guests seeking spontaneous getaways.
3. Utilize social media and email marketing
Make use of your social media platforms and email marketing to target last-minute travelers. Regularly post engaging content on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, showcasing your vacation rental and any current promotions. You may even want to consider creating an ad on Facebook and Instagram. Because Facebook owns Instagram, you can have your ad viewed across both social platforms at once. Create a strong call to action to attract last-minute travelers to book with you. Include a booking link across your social media pages to let your followers act immediately.
If you have not already done so, build an email subscriber list of past guests and inquiries and send out regular newsletters featuring exclusive deals and updates on last-minute availability. Segment your email list to target subscribers who have previously shown interest in last-minute offers or that live within close driving distance. Be sure to make your subject line catchy, noticeable and meaningful to your call to action – that is, to book your vacant dates.
You can also engage your followers in your cause and expand your circle by offering a referral bonus for new bookings.
4. Leverage local events and activities
Stay informed about local events, festivals, or activities happening near your vacation rental. When promoting last-minute bookings, highlight the proximity of your property to these events and emphasize the convenience and unique experience guests can enjoy by booking with you. Provide recommendations for nearby attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options to entice last-minute travelers looking for a memorable getaway.
5. Implement flexible booking policies
Last-minute travelers often seek flexibility in their accommodation arrangements. Consider offering more lenient booking policies, such as shorter minimum stay requirements, flexible cancellation policies, or the option for same-day bookings. Make sure you have Instant Book turned on across all channels to show up in last-minute travelers’ queries. Last-minute travelers are motivated to book fast – if they have to wait for your approval, they’ll move on to the next option they find.
6. Engage with previous guests
Tap into the power of guest loyalty and word-of-mouth marketing. Reach out to previous guests who had a positive experience staying at your vacation rental and offer them exclusive deals for future last-minute bookings. Encourage them to leave reviews and share their experiences on review platforms and social media, amplifying your property’s visibility and credibility.
7. Stay active and responsive
Timeliness is key when it comes to last-minute bookings. Be proactive in responding to inquiries, providing quick and helpful information to potential guests. A delay in your response could end up with a lost booking opportunity.
Embracing the world of last-minute bookings can be a game-changer for your vacation rental business. By implementing these strategies to attract spontaneous travelers, you can optimize your property’s occupancy rates, maximize revenue potential, and build a reputation for flexibility and responsiveness. Remember to continuously monitor market trends, adapt your strategies, and stay ahead of the competition. By offering enticing deals, leveraging online platforms and marketing channels, and providing exceptional guest experiences, you’ll position your vacation rentals as the go-to choice for those seeking a quick escape. So, get ready to welcome a wave of spontaneous guests and turn those last-minute vacancies into thriving bookings. Start implementing these tips today and witness the positive impact on your rental business. Happy hosting!
Guesty’s talented marketing team is comprised of passionate professionals who share insightful industry knowledge and shape brand narratives. By bringing a diverse blend of expertise to the table, we are the visionary architects behind the Guesty brand and innovative campaigns that help people understand our product.
