The holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s prime time to attract guests seeking cozy stays for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and beyond. To help you maximize your bookings and create unforgettable guest experiences, we’ve compiled 5 proven tips to make your vacation rental stand out this season.
From holiday-themed packages to picture-perfect listings and savvy communication strategies, this guide has everything you need to fill your calendar and delight your guests. Plus, if you’re ready to take your marketing to the next level, CraftedStays can help you build a stunning direct booking site to showcase your property, maximize revenue, and own your bookings. As you know, the holiday season is the perfect time to highlight the power of direct bookings. Whether you’re new to direct bookings or looking to improve your current setup, CraftedStays makes it easy to stand out and succeed.
1. Create Holiday-Themed Packages
Offer curated experiences that align with the season. Think:
- Thanksgiving Deals: Include a small gift basket with seasonal treats or recipe ideas for a perfect holiday meal.
- Christmas Magic: Decorate your property with lights, a tree, or stockings for a festive vibe.
- Winter Warmth: Include extras like hot cocoa kits or cozy blankets to make your space irresistible.
Tailoring your property to holiday travelers makes it feel like a home away from home.
2. Use Eye-Catching Holiday Imagery
Your photos can sell the experience before guests even arrive. Update your listing or website with:
- Photos of the property decorated for the season.
- Cozy corners perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Scenic shots of your location (snow-covered landscapes, fall foliage, etc.).
Guests book with their eyes—make sure they see the holiday magic in every image.
3. Run Special Promotions and Discounts
Travelers love holiday deals, so entice them with promotions like:
- Early-bird discounts for booking holiday dates in advance.
- “Stay longer, save more” offers for extended family gatherings.
- Exclusive discounts for direct bookings to save on fees.
Promote these deals through email campaigns and social media to maximize reach.
4. Leverage Holiday Travel Trends
Position your property to cater to holiday-specific needs:
- Multi-family accommodations: Highlight space for group gatherings.
- Pet-friendly stays: Families often travel with pets during the holidays.
- Nearby holiday attractions: Mention local light displays, markets, or events.
Make your listing the perfect solution for seasonal travelers’ needs.
5. Communicate Like a Pro
Clear, warm, and timely communication makes a big difference:
- Send automated booking reminders with holiday tips (e.g., nearest grocery stores or holiday hours).
- Personalize messages to suggest activities or events during their stay.
- Reply quickly to inquiries to capture last-minute bookings.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to update your FAQ section to address common holiday-related questions.
Bring the Holiday Cheer to Your Marketing
The holidays are about connection, warmth, and celebration. By incorporating these tips into your marketing, you can not only attract more bookings but also create a holiday experience your guests will cherish—and rave about!
✨ Bonus Tip: Ready to streamline guest communication? Check out our guide on Mastering Email Communication forYour Vacation Rental Business for email templates and strategies that convert.
Ready to boost your bookings this season? Let the holidays begin!