At the time of writing, there are more than 7.7 million active listings on Airbnb. That’s more than the number of annual visitors to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Or the population of Laos.

With as many hosts as there are people in a small country, standing out in the market and increasing your Airbnb bookings can feel impossible. We tracked down the hosts of some of the most popular listings to learn their best tips for booked-out calendars.

Whether you’re a new Airbnb host or a seasoned one, these tips will help you optimise your listing and increase your occupancy rate.

Table of contents: how to increase Airbnb bookings

• 1. Create a memorable experience
• 2. Anticipate your guests’ needs
• 3. Prioritise getting good reviews
• 4. Invest in your property photos
• 5. Build strong relationships
• Final thoughts: how to increase Airbnb bookings

1. Create a memorable experience

Just like in any hotel, in Airbnb the guest experience is everything. Paying attention to the little things improves the guests’ stay and increases the likelihood of them returning or recommending your place to friends and family.

Cyndi and Tom are the hosts of Luxury Cabin on the Santiam River, an impressive accommodation in the top 1% of listings on Airbnb. They say:

“Our #1 tip is to WOW, your guests. The minute they walk into your space you want them to say “WOW!”. Offer something they don’t see anywhere else and they want to come back.”

Their cabin has special touches like a luxurious two-person bathtub, heated blankets to take out on the deck, and a fully stocked coffee bar. They even have a designated spot to leave dirty dishes so they can take care of them for you.

Riccardo, host of Large apartment in Campo Sant’Angelo, takes a similar approach by thinking about what he appreciates in his own living space. He says:

“We treat the apartment like our home. We put flowers out sometimes because we like it, not because we have to. Those are little touches that guests truly appreciate, as well as the welcome kit we provide with free wine.”

As these hosts prove, creating a great guest experience doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. It’s about adding thoughtful, personal touches that make guests feel pampered.

Get started: how to create memorable moments (without breaking the bank) and increase bookings

Small extras tied to your Airbnb’s location are a great way to make your guests’ stay more memorable and unique. For example:

• If your Airbnb is in an area known for its wildlife, you could provide a pair of binoculars and create a short guide telling guests where and when they can spot certain plants, animals and birds during their stay.
• For an urban Airbnb, you could create a short guide letting them know your favourite things to do in the city, or insider tips for places they aren’t likely to find in a guide book.
• If your Airbnb lends itself to a family-friendly beach stay, providing things like buckets and spades can be really well-received. Not only do kids love it, but it stops parents having to buy items they’ll only use for a couple of weeks of the year.
• If you know the weather is going to be bad during your guests stay, you could provide a kit for an indoor activity. This could be as simple as a movie night, where you leave a bag of microwave popcorn and a small selection of movies set in the surrounding area.

2. Anticipate your guests’ needs

Alongside thoughtful amenities, part of creating a stand-out guest experience is delivering what they want  – before they even realise they want it. Stan, host of Serenity Creek Treehouse (another listing in the top 1%), sums it up simply:

“Build your reputation by the old saying – under promise and over deliver.”

When people book Airbnb, they don’t necessarily expect a 5-star service. By making sure your guests’ stay is as stress-free as possible, you can instantly surpass their expectations and make their experience as memorable as a high-end hotel. Riccardo embodies this approach in his hosting style. He says:

“I’m always in touch to simplify the life of a traveller, for example booking them a taxi or giving them directions before the guest even asks me for the information they need.”

This kind of proactive communication and attention to detail helps their trip run smoothly, allowing them to focus on enjoying their time. It’s small, thoughtful gestures that can make a significant difference in how guests experience your space.

Doug, host of Netherwood, also emphasises the importance of anticipating guests’ needs. He shares:

“Our guests consistently tell us that we ‘have thought of everything’ in how we’ve set up our guest house and the amenities we provide.”

Doug’s approach highlights the value of careful preparation and attention to detail. By thinking ahead about what guests might need during their stay, whether it’s extra toiletries or a well-stocked kitchen, you can help ensure your guests feel comfortable and well-cared-for.

Get started: easy ways you can ensure a stress-free stay and get more Airbnb bookings

Going back to basics is the best approach to making life easy for your guests. Here are a few practical ways you can anticipate their needs:

• Provide clear, step-by-step instructions for parking and check-in ahead of time, with pictures if necessary. Travelling is pretty stressful for most people, and they’ll appreciate being able to get in and set up as easily as possible.
• Make sure there are instructions available in core languages for appliances like hobs, washing machines and coffee makers. Simple guides that you put together will be easier to navigate than a bulky manual, and can save your guests a lot of frustration.
• If you have a barbecue at your Airbnb, provide basic supplies like charcoal and cooking utensils. It will save guests an extra trip to the shops (particularly helpful if you’re in a more rural area).
• Put your Wifi code somewhere obvious, and swap out the hard-to-type default password to something short and straightforward.
• Stay on top of booking inquiries – guests want quick responses when they have questions during their stay, so aim to reply within an hour during daytime hours.
• Keep an emergency contact list visible with local doctors, hospitals, and a backup contact if you’re unavailable. This helps guests feel secure without adding stress about what to do in unexpected situations.

3. Prioritise getting good reviews

A description and photos can only do so much. Reading experiences from real guests helps others determine whether the Airbnb lives up to to expectations and whether it’s worth booking.  As Harry, host of The Crow’s Nest says:

“To ensure bookings remain high on Airbnb you have to recognise that you are part of a community of guests and hosts and that ensuring you get good reviews is paramount. Be generous when offering compensation for any issues experienced by guests. Such gestures foster good will and will serve you well going forward.”

Even when the guest doesn’t experience any problems, the way you approach your guest interactions plays a major role in getting good reviews. As Doug highlights:

“I believe that our preparation for guests, as well as our communication with guests, are significant parts of the reason we receive such positive reviews, which in turn shows potential new guests that our place is a great option for staying in our area.”

Prioritising good reviews means focusing on the details that matter most to guests. By excelling in these areas, engaging personally when possible, and handling issues with generosity and care, you enhance the guest experience and build a strong reputation that attracts future bookings.

Get started: tips for getting more 5-star reviews for your Airbnb or short-term rental

For most hosts, Airbnb is the only platform you’ll collect reviews from your guests. That’s why it’s important to collect as many good reviews as you can to increase Airbnb bookings. Here are some quick tips for maximising high-quality guest feedback:

• Ensure your listing accurately represents your space in terms of size, amenities, location, and any quirks. Misaligned expectations are one of the most common reasons for negative reviews.
• Put your contact information somewhere easy to spot. Make it clear that they should contact you if they have any problems. That way, you can resolve any issues while they’re still at your property and prevent negative reviews.
• Even though Airbnb will automatically invite guests to leave a review after their stay, you can do your bit to remind them. After they’ve checked out, wait 2–3 days to send a gentle reminder if they haven’t left a review yet. This gives guests time to settle and reflect on their experience.
• Make sure any message or request you send is short and to the point. Avoid over-explaining or sounding overly eager, as this can make the message feel pushy. Example: “Thank you again for staying! If you enjoyed your time with us, a quick review would mean the world to us and help future guests too.”
• Keep your response rate high by replying within hours to any issues – speedy problem-solving often leads to better reviews. Many guests check host response rates before booking, and quick replies during their stay increase your chances of a positive review.
• Update your calendar and availability regularly to prevent booking issues that could lead to negative reviews. A well-maintained booking calendar shows guests you’re organised and attentive, which often reflects in their feedback.

4. Invest in your property photos

With hundreds of other options just a few clicks away, a great first impression is essential to stand out from the crowd. As Kate, host of The Hazel Hide explains:

“Without a doubt, my number 1 tip is excellent photos. Not only do they showcase your property fully and sell the experience, they also show guests you care about presentation.”

Kam, host of the Glass Walled Penthouse, shared that good photos can even impact where you show up in search results:

“My number tip is to have professional photos as it boosts bookings by 30%. Airbnb algorithm can now differentiate high-quality photos which helps your listing rank higher.”

He advises taking advantage of Airbnb’s Pro Photo Program, where Airbnb connect you with a local photographer who will showcase your property at its best.

In addition to professional photography, it’s important to consider the details that make your photos stand out. Make sure your space is well-lit, clean, and staged with inviting touches like fresh flowers or neatly arranged furniture. 

Capture your property from multiple angles to give potential guests a complete view of what they can expect. If your listing has unique features, like a stunning view or a cosy reading nook, be sure to highlight them.

Investing in high-quality photos is not just about getting people to click on your listing—it’s about conveying the experience they can expect during their stay. Clear, well-composed images build trust and set the right expectations, making it more likely that guests will choose your property over others.

Get started: how to improve your property photos without a pro

If you don’t have the budget for a photographer right now, don’t worry. There are a few things you can do to get more from your photos:

• Shoot during the day and maximise natural light by opening all curtains and blinds. Early morning or late afternoon often provides soft, flattering light.
• Avoid shooting from too high or too low, which can distort the proportions of the room. Shooting from eye level (around 5 feet off the ground) generally produces the most natural and appealing perspective.
• Strive for a consistent feel throughout all your photos, whether through similar lighting or composition. This makes your listing feel cohesive and gives it a professional touch.
• Don’t forget to photograph outdoor areas like gardens, patios, or balconies. Highlight any outdoor seating, BBQ areas, or scenic views that make your property stand out.
• Take photos that highlight features guests want most – workspace for remote work, kitchen amenities, or entertainment areas can increase your booking rate
• Consider taking photos that highlight your property’s appeal in every season – like cosy fireplaces for winter, covered patios for rainy days, or indoor entertainment areas. These shots can help attract guests during off-season bookings when outdoor activities might be limited
• Label your photos clearly in your listing – good organisation helps your Airbnb SEO and makes it easier for potential guests to find what they’re looking for

5. Build strong relationships

At its core, Airbnb is designed for travellers seeking a more personal and homely experience compared to traditional hotels. For Laura, host of Hodder Bridge Court, a big part of this is the way she interacts with her guests. Laura says:

“I think the number one key to increase bookings is to ideally meet the guest in person. Also going over and above communications-wise with local attractions, restaurants, transport etc…anything to make the guests feel stress and worry free.”

By meeting guests in person, Laura establishes a personal connection that can make guests feel more welcomed and valued. Even if meeting in person isn’t always feasible, extending this personal touch through detailed and proactive communication can have a big impact. 

Providing guests with insider tips about local attractions, dining options, and transportation can enhance their stay and demonstrate that you care about their experience beyond just providing a place to sleep.

Jenn, host of the King Suite, echoes this sentiment with a focus on the relational aspect of hosting:

“Our number one tip for increasing bookings would be to treat your guests like friends and family, instead of treating them like a business transaction. Our guests really notice that we go above and beyond to make sure they’re comfortable.”

Get started: build better relationships with your guests and get more bookings

Building strong relationships with Airbnb guests involves striking a balance between being welcoming, attentive, and respectful of their privacy. Here are some practical tips for creating meaningful connections:

• Tailor the stay by noting details from their booking. For example, if they’re celebrating a special occasion, leave a small note or extra treat. Even recognising repeat guests by welcoming them back can create a stronger connection.
• Whether you meet guests in person or have a contactless check-in, ensure the process is smooth, warm, and welcoming. Leave a simple welcome message or instructions on how to reach you easily if they have questions.
• Anticipate questions or challenges. If you know, for example, if you know there’s road construction nearby, let them know in advance and offer solutions.
• Send a quick, friendly check-in message mid-way through their stay to make sure everything is going well. This shows you’re attentive without being intrusive.
• Always be quick to reply to guest questions or requests. Being accessible and responsive reassures guests that you’re there if needed, and it shows you care about their experience.
• The Airbnb community thrives on connection. A smooth booking process and excellent communication prior to booking help create trust. Consider offering direct booking options to returning guests, and work with reliable housekeepers to get your property ready between stays.

Final thoughts: how to increase Airbnb bookings

It’s clear that there’s no one solution to increasing Airbnb bookings—rather, it’s about creating a special experience from the moment a guest lands on your listing until after they check-out.

Start by focusing on the basics: high-quality photos, clear communication, and thoughtful touches that reflect your personal style. By implementing these tips, you will not only enhance guest experiences but will also see an increase in Airbnb bookings.

A special thanks to the hosts who generously shared their insights for this article!