How to get your Airbnb ready for the holiday season
Preparing your holiday let for the festive season
As the festive season approaches, the demand for holiday rentals significantly increases. This is the perfect time to refresh your property listing to maximise bookings and appeal to potential guests. Before putting up the tinsel and decorations, take a moment to strategise on how to make your holiday let stand out as the top choice for holidaymakers.
Festive pricing strategies
Most hotels and resorts increase their rates during the Christmas and New Year period due to high demand from families travelling across the globe to reunite with loved ones. You should consider adjusting your pricing during this peak season to reflect the increased demand. If there is limited accommodation in your area, don’t shy away from charging a higher rate – but ensure your prices remain competitive by researching similar properties in your neighbourhood.
đź’ˇ Tip: Offer tiered pricing for extended stays during this time. For example, a discount for guests booking five nights or more could encourage longer stays and secure higher occupancy.
“If you know there’s limited accommodation in your area at this time of year – don’t be afraid to charge a considerably higher rate to capitalise on demand” – GuestReady
Update your listing to highlight seasonal attractions
Does your holiday let have a unique advantage during the festive season? Perhaps it’s located near a bustling Christmas market, offers a prime view of New Year’s Eve fireworks, or is situated in a serene countryside retreat away from the holiday chaos. These details can make all the difference in attracting guests. Update your listing headline and description to emphasise these features.
Example headline ideas:
- “Charming cottage near Christmas market – perfect for festive fun”
- “Cosy countryside escape from Christmas shopping madness”
- “Modern flat with spectacular views of New Year’s fireworks”
- “Spacious home ideal for festive family reunions”
- “Charming retreat with Christmas tree and roaring fire”
đź’ˇ Tip: Include specific details about proximity to local shops, transport, and seasonal activities to give guests practical reasons to choose your property.
Create a festive atmosphere
Adding a touch of Christmas cheer can make your property feel warm and inviting. Guests appreciate thoughtful decorations that reflect the festive spirit, but it’s essential to balance seasonal touches with the overall style of your property.
Decoration ideas:
- Hang a festive wreath on the front door to set the tone for arriving guests.
- Add soft fairy lights to key areas, such as the mantelpiece or window frames.
- Place pine cones dipped in gold or silver paint in bowls or tied with ribbon for an elegant touch.
- Provide a small, decorated Christmas tree or invite families to decorate one themselves.
💡 Extended ideas: For properties in snowy locations, consider offering sledges or providing a basket of warm blankets by the fireplace. For coastal properties, decorate with a nautical twist – think shells painted in festive colours or blue and white baubles.
Seasonal welcome packs
Personal touches go a long way in creating memorable guest experiences. Tailor your welcome packs to the season with festive treats and thoughtful additions.
Ideas for a festive welcome pack:
- Traditional mince pies or a small Christmas cake.
- Mulled wine spice kits with a bottle of red wine.
- A selection of festive teas or hot chocolate sachets with marshmallows.
- A small basket of seasonal fruits, such as clementines or cherries.
- Mini crackers or Santa-themed chocolates for a playful touch.
💡 Bonus idea: For New Year’s guests, include a bottle of Prosecco, party hats, and sparklers for a midnight celebration.
Tailor the experience for different guests
Think about the type of guests you are aiming to attract and adapt your approach accordingly. Families may appreciate a Christmas tree or a map to local festive attractions, while business travellers may prefer understated decorations that complement a minimalist space. Consider leaving practical items such as transport schedules, a list of nearby open shops, or even festive recipe cards for those who love to cook.
đź’ˇ Extension for families: Include a selection of board games or a movie selection with Christmas classics for cosy family evenings. For couples, add candles and a festive playlist to enhance the romantic atmosphere.
Capture the festive look
Don’t forget to update your property photos to reflect the festive season. Highlight your decorations and cosy atmosphere with warm lighting in your photos to create an inviting, seasonal feel. Guests are more likely to book a property when they can visualise their festive stay.
💡 Extra tip: Use captions on your photos to explain features, such as “Relax by the open fire with mulled wine” or “Wake up to a view of frosty countryside landscapes.”
Boost your reviews with excellent service
The holiday season can be stressful for guests, so ensure their experience is as seamless as possible. Communication is key – respond promptly to enquiries and provide clear instructions for check-in and check-out. Address any issues quickly and with a festive touch, such as offering a small token gift if something goes wrong.
đź’ˇ Proactive step: Send a pre-arrival message highlighting any local holiday events or tips for navigating busy areas during the festive period. This thoughtful gesture will help guests feel cared for.
Preparing your holiday let for the festive season is about creating an unforgettable experience for your guests while maximising your bookings. By focusing on thoughtful touches, strategic pricing, and clear communication, you can ensure your property becomes a top choice during this busy period.
GuestReady: your seasonal support
The festive season can be hectic for hosts, and this is where GuestReady steps in. Whether you need assistance decorating your property, updating your description with seasonal details, or managing guest communication, our team is here to help. With 24/7 guest support, property maintenance, and expert hosting services, we ensure your property meets and exceeds guest expectations.
