How to Master Upselling on Airbnb: Delight Guests & Grow Your Income 🚀

[Chippy3]

Hey All,

A message in the Community Café today prompted me to write this post. I enjoy helping hosts blend hospitality with growth 🚀

If you’ve been hosting for a while, you probably know the thrill of reading a glowing guest review… and the sting of missed income opportunities when guests ask, “Oh! I didn’t know you offered that!”

That’s where upselling comes in,  and no, it’s not just for hotels. Done thoughtfully, upselling on Airbnb can enhance your guest experience while helping you build a more profitable hosting business. Here's how:

What Is Upselling on Airbnb?

Upselling is offering guests optional add-ons, services, or experiences that go beyond their basic booking. These can be things you provide directly, or services you connect them to.

Think:

• Airport transfers or scooter rentals 🛵

• Local surf lessons or yoga sessions 🧘‍♀️

• Sunset BBQs or picnic baskets 🍢

• Private drivers, spa treatments, or guided hikes 🥾

• Flower delivery or birthday setups 🌺

• Late check-out or mid-stay cleaning 🧼

Why Upselling Works

Guests, especially travelers on vacation or special getaways, are often happy to pay more for convenience, comfort, and memorable moments.

Benefits to you as a host:

• Increase your revenue per booking 💸

• Create stronger guest relationships 🤝

• Reduce friction by handling logistics in advance

• Stand out from other listings with thoughtful extras

How to Offer Upsells (Without Being Pushy)

The secret to upselling successfully is to keep it helpful, optional, and well-timed. Here’s how:

1. Use an Upsell App or Integration
   Feel free to contact me for recommendations. Some apps allow guests to browse and book extras themselves via a dashboard or pre-arrival email,  no back-and-forth needed.

2. Include Offers in Your Digital Guidebook
   Add a section to your guide with curated experiences or packages guests can choose from.

3. Send Pre-Arrival Messages
   Share your upsell options in a friendly tone before check-in, for example:
   "Hey! If you’re interested in a scooter rental or local surf lesson, we have a few trusted partners we recommend — just let me know :)"

4. Customize for Your Audience
   Solo travelers might love group hikes or yoga. Families might want babysitting or toy boxes. Honeymooners? Think flower setups, champagne, or romantic dinners.

What I Offer at My Airbnb

As an example, at my listings, I offer:

• Airport transfers

• Local surf lessons from trusted instructors

• Scooter rentals delivered to the villa

• Flower setups for birthdays or proposals

• Private chef dinner on request

Guests love how seamless and “local” it feels,  and many say it’s the most memorable part of their trip.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Stay compliant: Make sure your offers follow Airbnb’s policies and local laws.

• Be transparent: Clearly list prices and avoid hidden fees.

Final Thoughts

Upselling isn’t about squeezing more money out of guests,  it’s about adding value. By offering curated, thoughtful extras, you become more than just a place to stay , you become part of their journey.

And happy guests? They leave better reviews, rebook, and tell their friends. That’s the kind of “upward spiral” every host wants.

What upsells have you offered at your Airbnb? Would love to hear your creative ideas in the comments!

—

C | Airbnb Superhost | AI SEO Specialist & Growth Marketer

[Rebecca]

Thank you for sharing this with us @Chippy3 😊

I wonder if these 'upsells' could be combined with Airbnb Experiences? What do you think?