Direct bookings have no platform commission and give you contact with the guest. You don’t need a large budget to increase them, but you do need consistent effort.
1. A site that loads fast and works on mobile
Most guests will see your site on mobile. If it’s slow or difficult, they leave and book on a platform.
2. A clear “Book” button on every page
It should be easy to spot and lead to availability and prices without many steps. If the guest has to fill a form and wait for a reply, many will get lost.
3. A clear value proposition
Why book here instead of on a platform? A proposal with real benefit: late check-out, welcome gift, more flexible cancellation, or better communication with the owner. Check your contracts with platforms for how you can offer perks.
4. Photos and reviews on your own site
A guest who sees photos and real comments from other guests has fewer reasons to look elsewhere.
5. Quick responses to messages
Speed wins bookings. Automations (like auto-reply and reminders) help when you can’t answer right away.
6. Email to previous guests
Those who’ve stayed and left happy are most likely to rebook. Send them a simple message before the season. Remember consent and the option to unsubscribe.
7. A good Google profile
Your Google profile (photos, hours, booking link) is often the first thing someone searching your name sees. Make sure it has a link to direct booking.
8. Measurement
Keep the percentage of direct bookings out of the total and check it each month. If you don’t measure it, you don’t know which actions work.
The technical foundation
You need a booking engine connected to your calendar, so a direct booking immediately updates all channels and overbooking doesn’t happen. HotelPoint offers a booking engine with no commission on direct bookings. See how it works in a short demo.