Minimising cancelations over the festive season.

[Julia5689]

Hi All.  Its my first festive season as a host and I have a question for you.  I'm keen to know what tips hosts have for cancelations in the festive season.  Ive had a couple of four night bookings over Christmas cancel out in the last couple of weeks which is disheartening.  But my main concern is that during the time they had the booking, the dates weren't open so no one else could book.  Then they cancel!  Frustrating!

[Snehal1]

What is your cancelation policy ?

[Julia5689]

It was very flexible so have just moved it to limited.  Thanks a bunch for your help.

[Helen3]

Change to a stricter cancellation policy . @Julia5689 

[Greystone0 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Julia5689 ,

As mentioned, you can update the cancelation policy.

Here's some thoughts:

- was there anything about each of these reservations that you can identify that will help you vet out for a future reservation. 

- perhaps they were new? didn't understand the location? really had more occupants and thought they could sneak them in? stuff like that. 

- and then update your content around that issue or when someone books ask them to double check dates and occupancy.  or have them confirm that they recognize owner lives nearby, or whatever.

- we have seen an increase in 'placeholding' reservations - where a group of travelers books several spots and then solidifies there plans and makes a bunch of cancellations. It's extremely frustrating and rude. In our case we no longer open high season dates on this platform as the policies don't work for us. We will open once it is much closer to the dates for any remaining availability, if that makes sense.

Good luck!

[Julia5689]

Thanks for the advice.  I have changed my cancellation policy and also will take into consideration leaving the cabin closed until closer to the holidays next time around.

Much appreciated.:)