Encouraging repeat guests to book direct: what is fair and what works?

HostStack Team · Team discussion starter

HostStack editorial — general information, not legal advice.

Many hosts want returning guests to book direct. Points to consider:

- Platform rules: most platforms prohibit steering guests off-platform during a booking made through them. Check the current terms before mentioning direct booking in messages. - Consent for marketing: under UK GDPR and PECR, you generally need appropriate consent before sending marketing emails, and must make unsubscribing easy. A guest's booking email address isn't automatic permission to market. - What you need in place: clear terms and cancellation policy, secure card payments, a written confirmation, and a privacy notice explaining what data you keep and for how long. - Fair pricing: show the full price including compulsory fees up front.

Ideas that stay within the rules include a simple, honest website that guests can find by searching for the property name, and a good stay that makes them want to come back.

How many of your guests return, and how did they find you the second time?