Is your vacation rental ready for Christmas bookings?

Availability during the festive period

Determining your property's availability over Christmas is a crucial first step. If you're open to bookings throughout December and into early January, make it abundantly clear in your listing. A simple phrase like "Christmas Day Available" at the top of your listing can draw potential guests in and boost your listing in search results. It saves people the hassle of wading through endless options and puts your property right in the spotlight.

However, if you're planning to use the property yourself or prefer not to be working on Christmas Day, block off those dates in your calendar. Ensure your listing clearly states the dates you're open, so there's no confusion. You might also consider setting minimum stay requirements over the holidays. This can help maintain your work-life balance and ensure you're not constantly on-call during what should be a relaxing time.

Reducing your minimum night stay to 3 nights means people will be encouraged to book from Christmas Eve through Boxing Day  as opposed to feeling the pressure to stay a full week.

Festive decorations

Will your property be festively decorated? If you're someone who loves Christmas and wants to share that joy with your guests, make sure they know they'll be stepping into a winter wonderland. Use eye-catching photos in your listing that showcase your property decked out with twinkling lights and a beautifully adorned tree.

When guests arrive at your property during the holidays, they want to feel welcomed and at home. Creating a cosy atmosphere is key to achieving this. Think warm lighting, comfortable seating, and perhaps even a small Christmas playlist to set the mood.

On the flip side, if you envision your property as a peaceful retreat for those wanting to escape the holiday hustle and bustle, communicate that subtly in your listing. Describe it as the perfect getaway for a low-key, quiet Christmas, where guests can hunker down and unwind.

Pricing and promotions

Pricing is always a tricky subject during the holiday season. While it's tempting to hike up prices due to increased demand, try to keep it reasonable. A slight increase over the official holiday dates can be justified, and Travelnest’s Smart Pricing tool can help you make these adjustments seamlessly.

Consider creating a special Christmas deal to attract more guests. Offering discount codes through Travelnest Direct can make your property even more enticing. Double-check your existing promotions to ensure any that are relevant for December are active and ready to go.

Reaching out to potential and previous guests

Don't underestimate the power of reaching out to guests. Placing a sign-up form to receive email updates on your social media can prepare a list for you to send a pre-holiday email. This could inform people of your property's availability over Christmas and offer a discount code for repeat visitors. This approach not only fills your calendar with trusted guests but also helps guarantee positive reviews, as these guests already know what to expect and appreciate your property.

Have you thought about promoting your vacation rental as a unique gift idea? Suggest a staycation at your rental as a Christmas present in your email with a list of available dates in the new year. Creating a printable voucher for gifters adds a tangible element that can encourage more people to take up this offer.

Stocking up for comfort and joy

Christmas is a time for family, and providing extra amenities can make a world of difference. Stock up on board games, festive jigsaw puzzles, and DIY craft materials to keep everyone entertained. A well-stocked property ensures that guests feel looked after and can enjoy quality time together.

Consider adding thoughtful touches to your welcome basket, like a roll of wrapping paper and some tape, just in case your guests forget. If you're feeling generous, leave a small gift per guest or family, such as a box of nice biscuits. These small gestures create a memorable experience and can lead to glowing reviews.

The benefits of efficiency at Christmas

Ensuring your vacation rental is ready for Christmas doesn't just boost your bookings—it enhances your reputation as a thoughtful and accommodating host. Word-of-mouth referrals from happy guests can lead to even more business, making these efforts well worth it. When you’re efficient, it lessens the stress for the adults involved in organising festivities.

Managing bookings during the holiday rush can be challenging. Use Travelnest to track reservations and automate confirmations. This will ease your workload and ensure a seamless experience for both you and your guests.

Clear communication goes a long way. Make sure your guests know what to expect before they arrive. Provide detailed check-in instructions, highlight any special holiday features or events in the area, and leave a small note welcoming them to your property. Personalised touches can make their stay even more special.

Conclusion

With the right preparation and a sprinkle of holiday spirit, your vacation rental can become a sought-after destination this Christmas. Whether your goal is to provide a festive haven or a quiet retreat, these tips will help you make the most of the holiday season. Remember, your property has the potential to be the gift that keeps on giving—both for your guests and your business. If you're eager to explore more ideas or need assistance in making your property stand out, consider reaching out to industry experts or connecting with fellow hosts online. Let's make this holiday season one to remember!