Tapping into local events is one of the smartest strategies to attract more guests and increase your vacation rental bookings. Whether it's a festival, concert, sports event, or a seasonal celebration, these occasions bring in people from all over, and many will need a place to stay. If you position your rental correctly, you can become the go-to accommodation for travelers attending these events.
Why Local Events Matter
When people travel for events, they typically need accommodation for a few days, and they're often willing to pay a premium to be close to the action. That's where your rental comes in. Being aware of the local event calendar and preparing for surges in visitors can set you apart from other property owners who aren't taking advantage of these opportunities.
If there’s an annual event in your area, whether it’s a music festival or a major conference, this should be an essential part of your marketing strategy. The potential to fill your calendar during these periods is high, but you need to stand out to grab those bookings.
Timing Is Everything
When it comes to leveraging events, timing is crucial. You don’t want to wait until the event is just around the corner to start promoting your rental. Most event-goers plan their trips well in advance, sometimes months before the event date. That means you need to update your listings early and ensure your property is visible as soon as people begin searching for a place to stay. Keep an eye on local calendars, and update your listings with relevant event information at least two or three months ahead.
Craft your listing description to appeal directly to event attendees. Highlight how close your rental is to the venue and emphasize any event-specific amenities. If your property is within walking distance or a short drive to the event, make sure to mention that in the listing title or the first few sentences. This will immediately grab the attention of potential guests searching for convenience.
Tailoring Your Listing for Events
For every local event, tweak your listing to align with what attendees are looking for. If it’s a sports event, emphasize group-friendly features such as extra beds or a spacious living area. If it's a music festival or outdoor celebration, highlight any outdoor spaces or amenities like a barbecue, patio, or rooftop deck where guests can unwind after the event.
You can also take it a step further by offering event-specific perks. For example, you could leave a welcome basket with event schedules, maps, or even snacks and beverages that tie into the event’s theme. These small touches can make your rental feel like a well-prepared, thoughtful space, ensuring positive reviews and repeat bookings.
Dynamic Pricing for Events
Local events provide an excellent opportunity to implement dynamic pricing. With demand surging during these periods, it's a good idea to adjust your rates accordingly. Just like hotels raise prices during peak times, you can optimize your income by increasing rates when an event draws large crowds to the area. However, it’s important to balance higher rates with the value you're offering to guests. Make sure the quality of your rental and the amenities align with the increased price to avoid negative feedback.
Vacation rental software can be incredibly helpful in managing dynamic pricing strategies, ensuring your rates remain competitive while maximizing revenue. It also helps automate booking management, giving you more time to focus on enhancing the guest experience.
Promote Beyond the Usual Channels
During high-demand periods like event weekends, standard listings on vacation rental platforms may not be enough to capture attention. Consider promoting your rental through other channels. Social media, local event forums, and even partnering with event organizers or local tourism boards can give your property more visibility.
If the event has an official hashtag, use it in your social media promotions. You could even run targeted ads for people searching for accommodation near the event location. Reaching out to local influencers who are attending the event can also help get your property in front of a larger audience. Many influencers are happy to share where they’re staying if they’re given a special experience to talk about.
Listing on Multiple Platforms
If you're not already listing your property on multiple OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) like Vrbo, Booking.com, and Airbnb, this is the perfect time to do so. Different platforms attract different types of travelers, and broadening your reach can lead to more bookings, especially during event-heavy periods. By diversifying where your property is listed, you’re opening the door to a wider audience that might not have found your rental otherwise. Each platform has its unique benefits, so understanding where your ideal guests are searching is key to maximizing your visibility.
Connecting with Guests
Before guests arrive, reach out and make them feel welcome. Send them a message thanking them for choosing your property and let them know you’re available for any questions. Share insider tips about the event, such as transportation options, parking recommendations, or nearby places to grab a quick bite.
During the stay, check in occasionally to ensure everything’s going well. A simple “hope you’re enjoying the event” message goes a long way in showing your attentiveness without being overbearing. It’s all about striking a balance between offering assistance and giving guests space to enjoy their stay.
After the event, follow up to ask for feedback and a review. Guests are more likely to leave glowing reviews when they feel personally connected to their hosts, and good reviews can lead to more bookings in the future.
Conclusion
Leveraging local events is a powerful way to increase your vacation rental bookings, but it requires foresight, planning, and a little creativity. By tailoring your listing to event attendees, adjusting your pricing, and using multiple platforms to reach potential guests, you can maximize your property's exposure during these high-demand periods.
