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Last Updated on December 17, 2024 by Fullhome Airbnb Manager
Airbnb Tips to Boost Bookings in Winter Season
Winter and off-peak seasons pose significant challenges for Airbnb hosts, often leading to seasonal dips in bookings and lower occupancy rates. Cold months, while quiet, offer a unique opportunity for savvy hosts to attract travelers seeking cozy retreats, festive escapes, or adventure-packed winter vacations. The key to thriving during this low-demand period lies in optimizing listings, providing tailored winter amenities, and curating unique seasonal experiences that cater to guest preferences.
This article will outline actionable Airbnb management strategies—from listing optimization and dynamic pricing to leveraging winter activities and personalized communication—that will keep your Toronto Airbnb competitive and fully booked throughout the slow season.
Optimize Your Airbnb Listing for Winter Stays
Winter-Friendly Descriptions:
During the off-peak season, tailor your Airbnb listing to appeal to travelers looking for comfort, warmth, and a winter escape. Use descriptive keywords like “cozy winter retreat,” “warm fireplace to relax,” and “heated spaces for chilly nights.” Highlight the atmosphere of your property by painting a picture of what guests can expect—think soft blankets, hot cocoa by the fire, and a peaceful winter getaway.
Example:
“Experience a cozy winter escape in our chalet-style home. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace, plush throws, and a steaming cup of hot chocolate as you watch the snowfall outside.”
Seasonal Photos:
Many hosts fail to adapt their photos for winter, which creates a gap in attracting winter travelers. Update your Airbnb images to reflect a winter-friendly atmosphere:
- Showcase a well-lit, cozy interior with a lit fireplace, blankets, or winter-themed decor.
- Highlight outdoor spaces with snow-covered backdrops, fire pits, or hot tubs.
- Include amenities like hot drinks or seasonal treats to give a personalized touch.
Pro Tip: Add captions like “Perfect for a winter night by the fire” or “Warm up in the private hot tub after a day in the snow.”
Highlight Winter Amenities:
Amenities make or break a guest’s winter experience. Ensure you highlight features tailored to cold months:
- Fireplaces or Space Heaters – Mention if your property offers heating options for warmth.
- Hot Tubs or Saunas – Promote luxurious features that appeal to winter travelers.
- Snow Gear or Sleds – Provide added value by including snowshoes, sleds, or nearby winter sports rentals.
- Seasonal Treats – Include small gestures like hot cocoa packets, festive decorations, or warm throws.
PRO TIP – Ensure these amenities are listed prominently in the headline or bullet points of your description to attract winter vacationers browsing quickly.
Highlight Seasonal Value:
Add a seasonal spin to your listing title to stand out on Airbnb search results:
- “Winter Wonderland Getaway with Hot Tub & Fireplace”
- “Cozy Cabin Retreat – Perfect for Winter Holidays”
Why This Works:
By updating your descriptions, images, and amenities to align with the winter season, you create a tailored experience that appeals to cold-weather travelers. This addresses a significant gap , where listings often remain generic year-round.
Offer Seasonal Discounts and Promotions
Competitive Winter Pricing:
During the slow season, travelers often look for affordable yet comfortable options. Offering competitive pricing can help you stand out in search results. Use tools like Airbnb’s Smart Pricing to adjust rates dynamically and align with market demand.
Key Tips:
- Offer off-season discounts like “10% off for 5-night stays” or “Stay 3 nights, get the 4th free.”
- Provide midweek offers: Many travelers look for quick, affordable getaways during winter weekends. Highlight deals for weekday bookings.
- Mention savings prominently in your title or listing description:
- “Save 15% on Your Winter Escape – Book Now!”
Bundle Promotions for Value:
Go beyond basic discounts by offering value-packed winter packages to entice guests. Combine accommodation with seasonal perks:
- Holiday Packages: Include festive extras like a decorated Christmas tree, hot chocolate kits, or a seasonal welcome basket.
- Winter Activity Bundles: Partner with local businesses for discounts on winter activities like skiing passes, snowshoe tours, or spa experiences.
- Long-Stay Incentives: Offer reduced rates for guests booking extended stays to boost occupancy during slow weeks.
Showcase Limited-Time Offers:
Urgency drives action. Promote time-sensitive offers to encourage quicker bookings:
- Use phrases like “Limited Winter Special – Book by [specific date]!” or “Only 2 slots left for New Year’s Weekend!”
- Feature these promotions in listing titles, descriptions, and social media ads.
Example Promotion Ideas :
“Stay warm this winter with our exclusive Winter Retreat Package:
- 3 nights at our cozy cabin
- Complimentary hot cocoa and marshmallows
- A $20 voucher for a local winter activity (sledding or snowshoe rental).
Book before December 15th to save 20%!”
Why This Works:
Emphasizes bundled value and partnerships with local experiences—filling a common gap. Personalized offers and urgency-based messaging align well with guest expectations for winter deals.
Target Winter Travelers with Unique Experiences
Create Winter-Themed Experiences:
Stand out by offering unique experiences that cater specifically to winter travelers. Instead of just providing a place to stay, make your Airbnb a destination for memorable seasonal activities:
- Winter Adventures: Partner with local businesses to offer packages for:
- Skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing.
- Ice skating at nearby rinks or frozen lakes.
- Guided winter hikes or wildlife tours.
- Cozy Indoor Activities: Provide options for guests who prefer to stay warm indoors:
- Game nights: Stock up on board games, puzzles, and card decks.
- Movie marathons: Offer a selection of winter-themed movies, popcorn kits, and cozy blankets.
Holiday-Themed Stays:
Leverage winter holidays to attract travelers looking for festive getaways. Create packages that include seasonal decor and activities to enhance the guest experience:
- Christmas Stays: Decorate with a Christmas tree, wreaths, and holiday lights. Offer complimentary hot cider, cookies, or holiday music playlists.
- New Year’s Eve Escapes: Include festive extras like sparkling wine, party favors, or a firework-viewing guide for local events.
- Valentine’s Day Retreats: Create romantic packages with fresh flowers, chocolates, and a cozy candlelit atmosphere.
Example Listing Ideas:
- “Cozy Christmas Cabin with Fireplace & Tree – Holiday Escape!”
- “Romantic Valentine’s Getaway: Warm Up by the Fire with Wine & Treats.”
Leverage Local Winter Attractions:
Many hosts miss the opportunity to highlight nearby winter attractions. Fill this gap by promoting local events and activities:
- Winter Markets: Highlight Christmas markets, food festivals, or artisan fairs.
- Light Festivals: Promote events like winter light displays or local parades.
- Natural Winter Wonders: Emphasize unique outdoor experiences, such as frozen waterfalls, snow-covered trails, or scenic drives.
Pro Tip: Include a digital or printed guide with winter activities, local partnerships, and exclusive guest discounts.
Offer Personalized Itineraries:
Help guests plan their winter adventures by curating custom itineraries tailored to their stay length and preferences:
- 2-day itinerary for weekend travelers.
- 5-day plan including activities, food recommendations, and relaxation time.
Example:
“Explore the best of winter in [your location]:
- Day 1: Enjoy snowshoeing trails in the morning, followed by hot cocoa at [local cafe].
- Day 2: Relax by the fire after exploring the local Christmas market.”
Why This Works:
Introduce tailored experiences and practical ideas like holiday themes, custom itineraries, and strong local connections. It creates a value-packed narrative that positions your Airbnb as more than just a place to sleep—making it a winter destination of choice.
Improve Guest Comfort and Communication
Personalized Winter Welcomes:
Elevate the guest experience by offering thoughtful touches that enhance comfort during the cold months. Providing a personalized welcome sets the tone for a memorable stay:
- Warm Welcome Packages: Include items like:
- Hot chocolate or mulled wine kits.
- Cozy slippers, throw blankets, or hand warmers.
- Festive treats (e.g., cookies, gingerbread, or locally sourced snacks).
- Practical Add-Ons: Provide essentials like extra blankets, winter boots/shoe trays, and heating instructions to make guests feel taken care of.
Example:
“Welcome to your winter escape! Relax with our complimentary hot cocoa bar and enjoy the cozy throw blankets waiting for you in the living room.”
Ensure a Warm and Comfortable Stay:
Winter guests prioritize warmth and comfort, so emphasize the small details that ensure an enjoyable stay:
- Heating Instructions: Provide easy-to-follow instructions for heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters.
- Backup Heating Options: Offer electric space heaters or heated blankets to reassure guests.
- Check Insulation: Inspect doors, windows, and drafts to ensure rooms remain warm and energy-efficient.
Filling the Gaps:
Dont fail to address guest-specific needs for winter travel, such as backup heating or practical guidance on staying comfortable. Cover these areas comprehensively.
Proactive Guest Communication:
Excellent communication enhances trust and reduces winter-related concerns:
- Pre-Arrival Messaging:
- Share weather forecasts, winter travel tips, and local attractions.
- Provide detailed directions to your property, including advice for snowy or icy roads.
- During the Stay:
- Send a friendly check-in message to ensure guests have settled in comfortably and have all they need.
- Include tips like “How to use the fireplace” or “Best nearby coffee spots to warm up.”
- Post-Stay Follow-Up:
- Encourage guests to leave a review highlighting their winter experience.
Example Pre-Arrival Message:
“Hi [Guest Name], we can’t wait to host you! The forecast calls for light snow, so we recommend packing warm layers and boots. Don’t forget to try the nearby trails for a scenic winter walk—details are in the guidebook.”
Highlight Positive Guest Reviews for Winter Stays:
Guests rely on reviews to book during the slower season. Encourage winter visitors to mention specific highlights, such as:
- Warm amenities (e.g., fireplaces, blankets).
- Personalized touches (e.g., welcome gifts).
- Unique experiences (e.g., nearby holiday markets).
Why This Works:
Proactively communicating with guests, offering practical winter comforts, and leveraging reviews address gaps found in other articles. This level of detail ensures a seamless guest experience and boosts repeat bookings.
Use Targeted Winter Advertising and SEO
Winter-Specific SEO Optimization:
To drive visibility during the off-peak season, tailor your Airbnb listing and promotions for winter-related searches. Use winter-specific keywords naturally in your listing description, title, and promotional materials.
Key SEO Strategies:
- Optimize for Winter Keywords: Incorporate terms like:
- “Winter getaways,” “cozy Airbnb stays,” “winter vacation rental,” “off-season discounts.”
- Long-tail keywords: “Best winter Airbnb retreats near Toronto,” “affordable cabin rentals for snowy weekends.”
- Update Listing Titles: Include winter-centric keywords to attract attention:
- “Cozy Cabin with Fireplace – Perfect for a Winter Escape!”
- “Snowy Chalet Retreat | Heated Floors & Hot Tub.”
- Content-Rich Guidebooks: Add SEO-optimized local guides to attract users searching for winter activities, such as skiing trails, light festivals, or local cafes.
Leverage Social Media for Seasonal Ads:
Promote your winter-ready Airbnb across popular platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest with targeted visuals and campaigns.
- Winter-Focused Imagery: Showcase cozy interiors, snow-covered views, or festive setups.
- Story Highlights: Share “behind-the-scenes” winter prep, guest reviews, or nearby attractions.
- Ad Campaigns: Use Facebook Ads or Instagram campaigns with geo-targeted settings to attract travelers searching for winter escapes.
Example Ad Copy for Social Media:
❄️ “Dreaming of a cozy winter escape? Our chalet features a warm fireplace, blankets, and stunning snow-covered views. Book your winter retreat now and save 10%!”
Collaborate with Local Businesses for Cross-Promotion:
Partner with local businesses to promote winter experiences and attract more visibility:
- Cross-Listing with Experiences: Partner with ski resorts, cafes, or winter tour operators. Offer package deals featuring accommodations and activities.
- Social Media Shoutouts: Co-promote with local businesses to tap into their followers.
Example Collaboration:
“Stay at our cozy winter cabin and receive a 20% discount on ski rentals at [Local Ski Shop Name]!”
Invest in Google Ads for Seasonal Traffic:
Run Google Ads campaigns targeted at travelers searching for winter stays. Focus on keywords like:
- “Best winter Airbnb rentals near me,”
- “holiday cabin stays,”
- “romantic winter getaways.”
Pro Tip: Use retargeting ads to reach previous visitors to your Airbnb listing who didn’t book.
Highlight Limited-Time Offers on Travel Platforms:
Promote exclusive winter deals on platforms like:
- Airbnb Promotions (utilize visibility tools like Airbnb Boost).
- Vacation Rental Sites (VRBO, Booking.com).
Maximize your Airbnb income this winter with expert airbnb property management in Toronto. Let FullHome handle the rest – [Contact us today!]”
FAQs: How to Increase Airbnb Bookings in Winter
1. How can I attract winter guests to my Airbnb?
To attract winter guests, focus on creating a cozy and comfortable experience. Highlight amenities like fireplaces, hot tubs, heated floors, and blankets. Update your listing with winter-friendly photos and descriptions that appeal to travelers seeking a seasonal retreat.
2. What amenities do travelers look for in winter Airbnb stays?
Winter travelers prioritize amenities that provide warmth and comfort, such as:
- Fireplaces or space heaters
- Hot tubs, saunas, or heated pools
- Warm blankets and slippers
- Complimentary hot beverages (tea, cocoa)
Offering practical items like snowshoes, sleds, or winter gear can also add value to their stay.
3. How do I price my Airbnb for the slow season?
Adjust your pricing strategy to stay competitive during low-demand periods:
- Offer seasonal discounts (e.g., 10–20% off for longer stays).
- Use dynamic pricing tools like Airbnb Smart Pricing.
- Create bundle deals that combine lodging with winter experiences or discounts on local attractions.
4. What are effective winter marketing strategies for Airbnb hosts?
Effective winter marketing includes:
- Optimizing your listing with winter-specific keywords like “cozy winter getaways” and “holiday cabin stays.”
- Running targeted social media ads with engaging visuals of your property in winter.
- Partnering with local businesses for cross-promotions on winter activities.
- Offering limited-time seasonal deals to create urgency.
5. Should I offer discounts for long winter stays?
Yes, offering discounts for extended stays during the slow season can boost occupancy. Consider creating offers like “Stay 7 nights, pay for 6” or reduced rates for mid-week stays. This approach appeals to digital nomads, remote workers, and budget-conscious travelers looking for winter escapes.