Why you might get more domestic bookings this Christmas

While the old saying claims that there’s no place like home for the holidays, many people around the world tend to disagree. The holiday season is the perfect excuse to travel.

Whether people are heading to a destination to visit family, or selecting a new place to visit to get away from their family during the chaotic-yet-festive time, the holiday season is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.

A recent report by Sojern has highlighted the travel trends to expect for the 2018 holiday season. Here’s what you need to know:

People will be staying local this holiday season

If you thought most of your holiday guests would be hailing from the far-flung reaches of the globe, you might want to think again. The Sojern report cites data claiming that many travellers are looking to stay closer to home this Christmas season — yet they are looking to book longer stays. For example, 33% of travellers in the United States said that they would be visiting a destination closer to home, but staying for eight or more days.

Travellers are booking their holiday stays early

The data notes that most travellers around the globe begin their online booking journeys approximately 60 days in advance of their departure. This means most travellers are looking to book their December getaways in late September or early October.

Mobile search is playing a prevalent role in holiday travel booking

Mobile search continues to dominate in the travel industry, and holiday travel booking is no exception. B&B operators need to have a responsive website design in place in order to maximise their bookings with busy holiday travellers.

Noting the data and statistics highlighted by Sojern, you may want to consider adapting your marketing strategy for the Christmas season. Here’s a few tips to help you attract the most motivated holiday travellers:

• Launch a holiday email marketing campaign
  Email has always been a successful channel for B&B operators, but the holiday season can be particularly beneficial. Sending emails with higher frequency during this busy season can help you catch the attention of interested travellers, and also provide additional information about your B&B.
• Be merry and bright on all of your social posts
  Right after October ends, it seems that people get into the holiday spirit — especially on social media. Start incorporating the holidays into your social posts now by adding photos of your decor, live streaming a holiday lights display or launching a Christmas contest.
• Host holiday events that will generate buzz
  People love to get out and enjoy the season during the holidays, and events can be a great way to attract visitors from both near and far to your B&B. Holiday brunches, Christmas concerts and a festive tour of your B&B are just a few examples of events to consider hosting.