Today, the ability to book a holiday directly from our mobile devices reflects the fast pace of life. The pandemic also triggered a shift towards a less planned and more spontaneous lifestyle. These factors have led more travellers to opt for last-minute bookings, seeking special last-minute promotions.
Last-minute bookings for vacation rentals can be very beneficial, as they can cover a last-minute cancellation or fill a gap in your occupancy calendar. As an owner of a vacation rental, it is crucial to leverage this trend to maximise occupancy and revenue. In this blog, we offer 5 tips for effectively managing last-minute bookings in vacation rentals.
1. Flexible Pricing Strategies for Last-Minute Bookings
Dynamic Pricing Tools
To implement dynamic pricing strategies, use tools that adjust rates according to the season, keeping you competitive. Modify prices based on demand so your offer aligns with market availability and maximises profitability for your vacation rental.
Special Offers and Discounts
To attract travellers, offer special deals and discounts. Adopt a diversified pricing strategy based on the sales channel, whether to increase direct bookings or visibility on other platforms and OTAs. This will appeal to those making last-minute reservations.
Maximising Occupancy
If you want to fill empty spaces, reduce minimum stay requirements and adjust your booking window to a range of 2 days to 24 hours. This will encourage potential renters to take advantage of the immediate availability of your vacation rental.
2. How to Improve Your Property’s Online Visibility
Attractive Information and Photos
Ensure that the information about the apartment is up-to-date and appealing. No one wants to read a boring text! Images should be high-quality and highlight the most important features. Guests like to see every corner of the apartment, so be realistic to avoid surprises.
Use of Social Media and Advertising Campaigns
To enhance online visibility, use social media and create campaigns to attract last-minute travellers. There are always people who, at the last moment, have not yet booked their vacation rental! Be responsive to customers and quickly address their inquiries. Keeping in touch and engaging with clients will help improve your reputation and show that you care about their well-being.
Keep Your Property Updated and Clean
Keep your property updated and clean. Cleanliness is a key factor when making a booking. Perform a deep clean after each check-out, including bed linens, towels, and all surfaces such as furniture, floors, and windows.
3. Simplify the Booking Process
As mentioned earlier, the number of people booking vacation rentals at the last minute is increasing. To facilitate this, customers should have the tools at their disposal. Mobile bookings are also on the rise due to their speed and convenience. Setting up an immediate booking process for your apartment can make it more attractive to this type of traveller. Ensure that the booking process is free of language or technical barriers, making it easier for more people to complete the reservation without difficulties.
4. Efficient Communication with Last-Minute Guests
Communication and Customer Service
In last-minute bookings, it is crucial to be available to respond to clients. Use automation tools to send quick replies and streamline this process.
Provide detailed information about the city they will be visiting.Since these are last-minute bookings, guests may not have had much time to plan their visit. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated! Provide guides and recommendations on tourist attractions, traditional restaurants, and entertainment options. This will enhance communication and the guest experience, ensuring they make the most of their stay.
Reception and Arrival at the Apartment
Provide clear and understandable instructions for the check-in process so all guests can access the apartment without issues. Remember, check-in is one of the most important steps in the arrival process. Guests will appreciate the ability to check in early. Be flexible and understanding with arrival and departure times. An excellent option for providing autonomy and comfort to guests is installing a smart lock.
5. Optimise the Guest Experience
To ensure a satisfying experience, provide the best public transportation options and routes from their arrival in the city to their departure. Provide information on public transportation options such as buses, metros, and trams, so guests can move around the city comfortably and safely.
Finally, prepare a welcome detail such as a fruit basket, a bottle of wine, or a card wishing them a pleasant stay. This aims to make the best impression of your apartment and enhance their experience. After all, if guests are satisfied, they will reflect it in their post-trip reviews.
We encourage you to adopt these tips in managing last-minute bookings for vacation rentals. However, having a vacation rental management company can make the entire process easier and optimise the performance of your property.
