How to get more vacation rental reviews in 2025 to boost your bookings

Give plenty of opportunities for a review 

Often, it’s not that your guests don’t want to leave you a glowing review, it’s that life gets in the way, and your request drops down the to-do list. The solution? Multiple chances to remind them (kindly, of course). 

• Diversify your platforms 

Think beyond just Airbnb or Vrbo - make it easy for guests to review you on places like Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, or even Trustpilot. With every new platform comes an extra opportunity to collect their thoughts. 

• Pepper in links at key moments 

Send out review links across guest communications, such as your pre-checkout email or after you've returned their deposit. Alternatively, place a QR code within your welcome pack instructions. Keep the tone polite, not pushy, and include clear instructions. 

💡Pro tip: Include quick links and a "one-click" option to make leaving the review as painless as possible. The easier it is for your guests, the more reviews you’ll rack up. 

Share quotes from former reviews 

Here’s a free tip to influence human psychology (and boost bookings): copy positive sentiment. Sharing glowing guest reviews in your listing copy, on social media, or as part of your email branding does two things:

1. Creates trust – Whoever said, "Word of mouth is the best marketing" wasn’t lying! 

2. Encourages mirroring – Visitors reading positive feedback often feel inclined to write something similar post-stay. 

Guests also love seeing their own words quoted. Did someone rave about your “cosy fireplace" or “incredible lake views”? Pop it in your next Instagram caption and tag them (if you have permission). It’s free marketing and a surefire way to build stronger community vibes. 

Reach out to past guests 

Think your connection with guests ends at checkout? Think again. If your rental is seasonal, winter could be the perfect time to nudge last year’s visitors into leaving feedback while they’re reminiscing about their trips. 

• January goldmine 

The post-holiday lull is your friend. With resolutions set, wallets recovering, and calendars wide open, January is an ideal time to send personalised review requests. Bonus? It might even persuade some of them to rebook for the year ahead. 

💡Pro tip: Pair your review request with a cheeky incentive. Maybe offer a discount for their next stay or enter them into a competition. Who doesn’t love the chance to win free stuff?

Nail the perfect timing for review requests 

Timing is everything. Ask for reviews at those magical moments in your guest’s rental experience when they’re full of warm-and-fuzzy feelings.

Here’s when to strike:

1. The day before checkout – While the holiday glow is still fresh, send a polite reminder. 

2. On checkout day – Follow up with a final message thanking them for their stay and nudging them toward leaving a review. 

3. After returning deposits – Hosts often get brownie points for swift and smooth refunds. Leverage this goodwill moment for a subtle review request. 

💡Hot tip: Did something go wrong during their stay? Don’t ignore it. Fixing issues quickly increases the likelihood of a positive review. Resolve, apologise, and then request feedback.

Build a culture of positivity 

Great reviews don’t just happen, you’ve got to set the tone. Happy guests write happy reviews, and your customer experience plays a huge role in that. 

• Communicate nicely throughout  

Whether it’s quick responses on your messaging platform or a handwritten note welcoming guests to your home, small gestures leave lasting impressions. 

• Leave thoughtful touches 

Stock the rental with local goodies like artisan coffee or craft beer. Add helpful guides with tips on secret spots in town. The little things go a long way when you want to wow guests. 

• Final touch 

Always end their stay on a high note. A heartfelt in-person goodbye, or even a thoughtful follow-up email wishing them safe travels, can leave an impression that translates into glowing words.

How Travelnest can help you become a top-notch host 

The most successful Airbnb hosts and vacation rental stars don’t just wing it; they follow a strategy tailored to stay ahead in the competitive 2025 hospitality trends. This is where Travelnest saves the day, helping you manage, market, and maximise bookings like a seasoned pro.

With Travelnest, your review game levels up, too:

• High-quality tools to collect reviews across multiple platforms.

• Expert advice to improve guest satisfaction.

• Pro tips to boost visibility and stay on top of your hosting game.

Want more tips to snag those five-star ratings? 

Make 2025 the year your rental takes centre stage. Sign up with Travelnest for a smarter review collection and resources tailored for vacation rental hosts like you.

Sign up today and start building the reviews that turn one-time visitors into loyal guests.