Anyone who's been involved in the short-term rental game for a while now knows that Airbnb upsells are essential for maximizing profits. Offering irresistible upgrades and additional services to guests can make a big difference in your bottom line.
In this post, we'll cover the essential topics of what Airbnb upsells are and how to create offers that increase vacation rental revenue.
So whether you're just starting out or you've been doing this for a while, read on for some tips that will help you make more money!
What Are Airbnb Upsells?
Have you ever been offered a complimentary upgrade at a hotel or restaurant when you arrive? That's called an upsell, and it's a great way to boost profits on services or products. Airbnb vacation rental owners are no different - they too offer upsells to their customers!
Contrary to cross-selling, Airbnb Upsells are additional services that can be added to the base price of an accommodation listing to increase the value of your guest’s experience. Now, many vacation rental hosts offer things like transport arrangements, housekeeping services, discount tickets to local attractions, and more.
Upselling is all about creating an irresistible offer - one that your guests just have to have! But it also requires thoughtful planning to make sure that you can get the maximum value out of the extra services being offered and so guests save money.
Great Ways to Upsell in Airbnb and Maximize Your Profits
Transportation services
Offering airport transfer services for your Airbnb guests is a great way to add extra convenience to their stay and make sure they have an enjoyable experience.
Here are some tips on how you can make the most of this upsell service:
Research potential companies or drivers thoroughly
Before committing to any airport transfer service like a car rental company, it’s important to do your due diligence and make sure they have a good reputation in the local area. Consider factors such as reliability, safety, and customer feedback when making your decision.
Decide on the pricing structure
You should decide whether you want to charge your guests an upfront fee for the airport transfer or if you would prefer to include it as part of their overall stay cost. This will depend on what makes the most sense for your business model and what your guests expect in terms of pricing.
always check local laws
Make sure that you familiarize yourself with any local laws about transportation company services so that you can abide by regulations at all times.
Ensure clear communication
Have clear communication between you and the airport transfer company about pickup times and locations so there are no issues with delayed pickups or incorrect drop-off points during the ride.
Early check-ins and late check-outs
Providing this service allows your guests to have more flexibility when planning their trips, which is especially beneficial for travelers who may have tight schedules.
This not only benefits them, but it also helps your business by bringing in more potential customers and helping support the local businesses in the area.
Here are some tips on how you as a vacation rental host can make the most of this upsell service:
Set clear policies
Before committing to allowing early check-ins or late check-outs, you should set out clear policies on what is expected from your guests in terms of cleaning, security deposits, etc. This will help ensure that everything runs smoothly when offering this upsell service.
Charge a fee upfront
You should decide whether you want to charge a flat rate fee for early check-ins or late check-outs, or if you would prefer to include it as part of their overall stay cost upfront. This will depend on what makes the most sense for your particular business model and what your guests expect in terms of pricing.
Provide detailed instructions
In order to ensure that everything goes as planned for your early check-in or late checkout guest, provide them with detailed instructions about the process ahead of time so there is no confusion.
Have backup plans in place
Have alternate plans or other arrangements in place just in case something unexpected happens and your guest needs additional assistance during their stay.
Storage space for guests luggage
Providing extra storage space can be especially helpful for longer stays, or travelers who may have limited space in their rooms.
This also allows them to leave their heavier bags in a designated area. So, they don’t have to carry them around while sightseeing or during the day while they are out and about.
Here are some tips on how you can offer this service to your guests:
Designate a specific area
Pick a spot in the rental unit where you can dedicate a few shelves or compartments where your guests can store their luggage during their stay. This will help keep the common areas of the rental unit neat and uncluttered.
Provide extra space
If possible, try to provide extra space in addition to what they would normally bring with them. This could include additional shelves or drawers that they can make use of during their stay, which will be especially helpful for longer stays or travelers who may not have much room in their rooms.
Offer it as an upsell
You could charge a small fee for providing extra storage space as an upsell to make more money from each booking. Make sure that the price you charge reflects the added value that it provides to your guests and is reasonable enough so that they won’t feel like they’re being overcharged.
Ensure safety & security
Lastly, make sure that whatever place you choose for extra storage is safe and secure for your guests' belongings. Consider installing locks on compartments if possible, so that your guests have peace of mind knowing their belongings are safe and sound while they explore the area!
Sporting goods and equipment
Guests will appreciate not having to purchase or rent the necessary items themselves, and they can have easy access to whatever sporting goods and local sports clubs they may need during their visit.
Here are some tips on how you as a vacation rental host can offer this service to your guests:
Selection of Items
Offer a wide selection of sporting goods and equipment so that your guests have plenty of options available depending on what activity they’re looking to do. Some vacation rental owners rent out popular sports equipment rentals ranging from bicycles, tennis rackets and playground equipment, all the safety gear and beach towels if near a beach area!
Charging fees
You could charge a small fee for guests wishing to make use of these items during their stay. Make sure that the price you charge reflects the added value that it provides them while also remaining reasonable enough so they don’t feel like they’re being overcharged.
Ensure safety & security
Make sure that all of the items you provide are safe and secure for your guests' usage. If possible, inspect all of the sporting goods before each guest checks in, so that you know everything is in working order and doesn’t pose any risks.
Offering discounts
You could also consider offering discounts for larger bookings or longer stays, to incentivize people wanting to use your sporting goods and equipment for extended periods. This can help boost your revenue stream even more!
Experiences of the local culture
Providing experiences of the local culture as an Airbnb upsell is a great way to give guests a unique and memorable stay. It allows them to truly immerse themselves in the culture and explore different aspects of the city or town they’re visiting.
Here are some tips on how to provide this type of service:
Research potential experience providers in your area
Look for local businesses or organizations that offer experiences related to your destination's culture and history, such as town farmer's market basket fair or hotel mini bar concept. Make sure to vet these services thoroughly by reading reviews and talking with existing customers.
Reach out to these providers
Once you’ve found the right service, reach out and explain what you’re looking for. Ask about the cost, the duration, and any special requirements or restrictions that may apply. Also, feel free to negotiate any discounts or extra value-added services that can be included in your package!
A fully-stocked pantry
By stocking your pantry with the necessities, from snacks and beverages to cooking supplies and toiletries, you can help make your guests’ experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Here are some helpful suggestions to get you started:
Stock items in bulk if possible
Purchasing items in bulk will help save money and reduce shopping trips when restocking your pantry. This will also ensure that you have enough products on hand for all of your guests’ needs. However, be mindful of expiration dates since having too much food could result in waste.
Include a variety of different types of food
To meet all kinds of dietary requirements, it's important to include a wide range of items from snacks and drinks to cooking supplies and comfort food. Consider stocking both standard brand-name products and unique regional delicacies so guests can sample the local cuisine during their stay!
Label any special instructions or ingredients
Especially for cooking items, it’s important to label any potential allergens or special preparation instructions so guests know what they should expect before using them. This goes a long way in ensuring safety as well as an enjoyable meal!
Kits for health and beauty
Health or beauty kits are especially beneficial for long-term stays since it’s likely that guests won’t have the necessary supplies with them. This can save them time and energy trying to find these items elsewhere during their trip.
Here are some helpful tips to make sure you get it right:
Offer discounts for large quantities
If you anticipate hosting more than one traveler at a time, offering discounted bulk rates can help reduce costs for both you and your guests without sacrificing quality products.
Monitor inventory regularly
Once you’ve stocked your Kit with all the necessary items, make sure to check in on it regularly (especially before peak season times) to ensure that everything is in order. This includes keeping track of expiration dates and restocking supplies when needed!
Pre-arranged mid-stay cleaning
Pre-arranged mid-stay cleaning is an excellent way to provide guests with an extra level of hospitality and convenience, while also generating additional income for your Airbnb business.
Here are some tips to help make sure you get it right:
Establish protocols for cleanings
The first step when offering pre-arranged mid-stay cleanings is to establish protocols. Decide how often the cleanings should occur (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.) and which areas of the house will be cleaned during each visit.
Research professional cleaners in your area
Once you have established protocols for cleaning, it’s time to find a reliable professional cleaner in your area. Look for companies that use eco-friendly products and prioritize safety measures such as employee background checks, COVID safety protocols, and rigorous disinfection routines.
Make your welcome basket more impressive
Offering a welcome basket as an Airbnb upsell is a great way to make your guests feel at home and impress them with the comforts of your rental property.
Here are some helpful tips to take your welcome baskets from ordinary to extraordinary:
Source locally
When sourcing items for your welcome basket, look for local farmers or businesses that offer unique products like artisanal foods, beverages, and crafts.
For instance, you can give your guests the full experience of the local culture by offering a local chef's basket. This will ensure that they get an authentic taste and feel of the area while simultaneously supporting small businesses in the neighborhood!
Opt for eco-friendly items
Whenever possible, try to opt for eco-friendly items such as reusable water bottles, soap bars instead of plastic pumps, or natural sponges instead of disposable wipes. This helps you show your commitment to environmental sustainability while still providing travelers with all the necessary amenities!
Offer discounts
Offering discounted packages is a great way to entice customers without sacrificing any profits on your end. You can make these available through coupons, romantic evening indoors, or group purchases (buying 3+ items gets each item 20% cheaper) so everyone wins in the end!
Wrapping Up
Taking advantage of the upsells and add-on services you offer can help you make more money from your rental property while ensuring that your guests have an enjoyable visit!
Not only will offering upsells make your guests feel special, but it can also help to generate additional income for your Airbnb hosting venture.
So don’t wait—start exploring the upsell opportunities available to you today and make sure to add those special touches that will leave your guests with an unforgettable vacation!
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