Is your hotel a staycation hotspot?

Dating back to the 19th century, staycations have a long history, especially in the UK. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we experienced a staycation boom as people sought out local travel options, as opposed to jetting off to Europe for a summer break.

However, with the changing travel landscape, is this boom over? According to research, four in 10 Brits are planning to enjoy the British countryside this year, and 33% of those surveyed said they’re opting for a staycation instead of forsaking international travel.

Today, we’re going to explore how your property can take advantage of the staycation trend and what the impact is on the hospitality industry.

The post-COVID boom is starting to dwindle, but this only creates opportunities for you and your team to capitalise on the new opportunity to attract new guests and entice previous guests through loyalty incentives. Here are six recommendations put together by the TRYBE team that you can try at your property to make the most of staycationers.

1. How do you communicate?

The way you communicate and interact with customers is crucial when it comes to promoting your business and updating your guests with updates, promotions, and news.

When it comes to staycations, emailing and messaging your audience is crucial as you can specifically target who you want to contact and with what offers or promotions. For example, you can target families during school holidays, retirees during quieter midweek periods, and offer specific discounts for local residents, to name a few.

Tailoring your campaigns to the best audience is known to increase conversions, so you’re missing out on revenue if you’re not.

2. Loyalty programmes are the future

As a business, the best time to create loyal customers is during the off-season. Offer extra rewards to your members such as a complimentary treatment, a discounted night's stay, or a free retail product.

Maximising quiet periods to turn your members into loyal advocates of your brand will only provide long-term success for your business.

3. Personalise your packages

Creating packages that highlight trends or key events is essential. A trend predicted to grow in 2024/25 is wellness and being outdoors. Are you based by the coast or mountains? Offer unique experiences such as yoga on the beach or a guided mountainous hike to guests. These set your business apart from the competition and provide the wellbeing benefits that guests want.

4. Network and partner

Utilise the community in which you’re based. Partner with local attractions such as golf courses, vineyards, children's theme parks, and more. Working with these local businesses can help create referrals for both your business and theirs. The power of working together and building those strong bonds will help future-proof your business.

5. Make your visuals seasonal

Do you update your website depending on the time of year or themed occasions? Use cozy photos during winter months, and work with global events such as Wimbledon or The Open.

Create memorable experiences for your guests that will get them talking about you and your team for months.

6. Utilise reports

Use the reporting functionality to see what’s popular and in demand. Highlight popular treatments and promote these above others.

By leveraging effective communication strategies, implementing loyalty programmess, personalsing packages, building local partnerships, creating seasonal visuals, and analysing popular trends, hotels can position themselves as appealing staycation hotspots.

Send us a message for more on how to maximise your revenue opportunities with TRYBE.