Winter Bookings

[Katja321]

We are looking to increase our winter bookings during the slower months. We have highlighted the local attractions and benefits of the area. Changed prices to be competitive and reflective of the areas market trends. What other ideas do you all have to increase our action during this time? Thanks for your input! 

[Marie8425]

@Katja321 

I suggest when you are dealing with separate seasons don't try for 1 listing description that tries to highlight both.  Airbnb actually likes when any change is made to a listing so have 2 basic seasonal descriptions.  If your a possible choice for skiers, highlight things like where to store skis things that skiers are interested in, maybe a mud room for boots and gloves or an area in the garage.  Your house is beautiful, how do I as the renter easily maintain that beauty.

I also suggest Guidebooks.  One for winter activities and one for warner weather activities.

You mention schools nearby that families visit.  Schools have calendars of events like football games or graduations.

Airbnb doesn't really search on keywords, but if you go on the internet and search for rentals near a school or ski resort, it will show Airbnb rentals that have the keywords.

[Joan2709]

@Katja321 

I agree with @Marie8425 ....try changing your cover photo to a winter scene outside the living space with the fireplace going. Add a few cups of steaming hot cocoa to a tray and take a closeup...you get the idea. Go for warm and cozy. I would also add some winter shots of the local shops and restaurants. Add a fire pit to your outdoor space and add a photo with the fire going and some marshmallows on a skewer ready to be roasted....

Custom Promotions

Use custom promotions to get more visibility on the listing. They can be very effective. 

Create a custom promotion

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/2982

[Emilie]

Hi @Katja321, 

It sounds like you've tried a few things already -did you get a chance to read the advice from Marie and Joan, who gave you some more ideas?

In addition, I wanted to see if some of our other hosts had any more suggestions: what do you think @Anton7298, @Jason2680, @Lydia594, @Bronwyn100 and @Bea2137?

Thank you everyone 🙂

Emilie 

[Lydia594]

Great advice so far! You can try to stand out from other places by showing you put in the extra effort. Cute/cozy decor photographed artfully, highlight things you do that are above and beyond for guests, maybe in the description use some key words to express how guests love your airbnb. Mine says "Guests have described the cottage as peaceful, well-stocked, immaculate, perfectly located, and their favorite Airbnb experience." But even with doing a lot of these tips, we are still struggling to get bookings this slow season! Sometimes people just aren't traveling to certain locations. You can use this time to do some repairs/touch ups, upgrade any furniture, pieces, decor you'd like to, get better pictures, etc. 🙂 

[Ahmed1048]

Hi @Katja321,

You’re already doing a great job with your listing! Here are a few more ideas that might help you stand out:

1. Refresh Your Photos: Update your pictures with cozy, winter-inspired shots—a lit fireplace, warm blankets, or a table set with hot drinks. Guests love photos that make them imagine themselves relaxing in the space.

2. Use Seasonal Keywords: Add phrases like "cozy winter retreat," "romantic escape," "family-friendly getaway," or "work-from-home oasis" to your title and description. These words help your listing show up when people search for specific experiences.

3. Highlight Winter Amenities: Emphasize things like heating, fast WiFi, or a fully equipped kitchen for home-cooked meals. Small details like extra blankets or board games can make your space feel even more inviting.

4. Offer Deals: Try discounts for longer stays or bundle extras like a free guidebook with local recommendations, holiday event tickets, or discounts at nearby restaurants.

5. Add Personal Touches: Leave little surprises for guests, like hot chocolate kits or a note suggesting the best winter spots nearby. Personal touches go a long way in creating a memorable experience.

6. Leverage Guest Reviews: Highlight feedback from past guests that mentions warmth, comfort, or how much they enjoyed their stay. This builds trust and encourages bookings.

Hope these tips spark some ideas for you. Best of luck with your winter bookings—I’m sure you’ll do great!

Warm regards,

Ahmed Nasser

[Cynthia1451]

The suggestions given are great!  Especially regarding winter warmth and comfort photos. If you have not already, maybe showcase a bigger discount and highlight your listing as a "last minute deal". 

Hope this helps!

[Berlene1]

Picture yourself in the customer’s situation, why will I pick your place? How about capture a photo of the ski nearby or the coffee place nearby. 

[Jason2680]

I’m not sure where you are, but my first question is what makes your location to be a desirable winter destination?