How to Keep Your Short-Term Rental Fully Booked During Off-Seasons

Keeping your short-term rental occupied during peak seasons is relatively easy, but maintaining high occupancy rates during the off-season requires strategic planning. Fortunately, there are many effective ways to attract guests year-round, maximize revenue, and reduce seasonal slowdowns. In this article, we’ll explore the best strategies to keep your short-term rental booked during the off-season while optimizing your property for increased visibility and bookings.

Why Short-Term Rentals Struggle in the Off-Season

The off-season can be challenging for short-term rental owners, as fewer travelers mean lower demand. Depending on your location, the slow season may be caused by weather, school schedules, or a lack of local events. However, with the right strategies, you can mitigate these slow periods and even turn them into an opportunity for growth.

By implementing smart pricing strategies, optimizing your listing, and targeting the right audience, you can increase your short-term rental off-season bookings and maintain consistent income throughout the year.

1. Optimize Pricing with Dynamic Rates

One of the most effective ways to attract guests during slower periods is through strategic pricing. Consider using dynamic pricing tools like Pricelabs, Beyond Pricing, or Wheelhouse, which automatically adjust rates based on market demand, competitor pricing, and historical booking trends.

Tips for Setting Off-Season Pricing:

• Offer discounted rates to incentivize bookings.

• Provide extended stay discounts to attract longer-term guests.

• Experiment with last-minute deals to fill gaps in your calendar.

• Use psychological pricing (e.g., $99 instead of $100) to encourage bookings.

• Highlight cost savings in your listing description.

2. Target a Different Audience for Off-Season Stays

During the high season, vacationers may be your primary guests, but the off-season opens opportunities to attract other demographics, such as:

• Business Travelers – Offer amenities like high-speed internet, a dedicated workspace, and flexible check-in/check-out.

• Remote Workers & Digital Nomads – Market your property as an ideal work-from-home retreat.

• Local Staycationers – Promote weekend getaways for couples and families looking for a nearby escape.

• Medical & University Visitors – If your property is near hospitals or colleges, cater to families and professionals needing short-term stays.

• Snowbirds & Seasonal Workers – Attract retirees and seasonal employees looking for extended stays.

3. Enhance Your Property’s Appeal for the Off-Season

Adding seasonal touches to your short-term rental can make it more attractive to guests. Consider:

• Cozy decor for fall and winter months.

• Outdoor fire pits or heated patios.

• Holiday-themed decorations and packages.

• Indoor entertainment options like board games, streaming services, or a stocked coffee bar.

• A well-lit workspace for business travelers and remote workers.

Additionally, highlight amenities such as hot tubs, fireplaces, or indoor activities to appeal to travelers looking for a cozy retreat.

4. Run Special Promotions and Discounts

Off-season promotions can attract price-sensitive travelers. Try:

• Loyalty discounts for repeat guests.

• Referral incentives to encourage previous guests to refer friends.

• Bundle deals (e.g., stay 3 nights, get the 4th free).

• Local partnerships with nearby restaurants, spas, or attractions to offer bundled experiences.

Consider using limited-time offers to create urgency and encourage bookings.

5. Leverage Multiple Booking Platforms

Listing your rental on multiple platforms increases your visibility. Beyond Airbnb and Vrbo, consider:

• Booking.com

• Expedia

• Google Vacation Rentals

• Niche sites catering to business travelers, pet-friendly stays, or extended stays.

A wider reach means more opportunities for bookings, especially in the off-season.

6. Improve Your Listing and SEO for More Short-Term Rental Off-Season Bookings

A well-optimized listing increases your chances of appearing in search results. Here’s how to enhance your Airbnb SEO:

• Use keywords like "short-term rental off-season bookings," "staycation rental," and "cozy Airbnb getaway."

• Update your description to highlight seasonal benefits (e.g., "perfect for winter ski trips" or "ideal for a fall retreat").

• Use high-quality photos showing all seasons.

• Encourage reviews from past guests to improve credibility.

• Write a compelling headline (e.g., "Escape the Cold in a Cozy Cabin with a Hot Tub").

7. Offer Flexible Cancellation Policies

Travelers are more likely to book with hosts that offer flexibility. Consider offering a moderate or flexible cancellation policy to reduce guest hesitation.

8. Expand to Mid-Term Rentals

If off-season occupancy is consistently low, consider catering to mid-term renters (30+ days). Many professionals, students, and relocating families look for furnished rental options, making it a great way to maintain income during slow months.

NOTE: Many states classify guests who stay longer than 30 days as tenants rather than short-term guests. This distinction can have significant legal implications, so it’s important to understand your local regulations. You—or your property management company—should review the relevant laws and take any necessary steps to ensure your property remains protected.

9. Engage with Past Guests and Build Loyalty

Re-engage previous guests by:

• Sending personalized emails with exclusive discounts.

• Offering early booking incentives for next year.

• Encouraging guests to leave reviews to attract new bookings.

• Using social media to share seasonal updates and promotions.

10. Create an Off-Season Event Calendar

Even if your destination has fewer travelers in the off-season, there are often local events, festivals, or attractions that can help draw guests. Research local happenings and highlight them in your listing or social media marketing.

Examples include:

• Wine tasting tours.

• Holiday markets.

• Winter sports events.

• Local food festivals.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your short-term rental booked year-round requires flexibility, creativity, and a proactive marketing approach. By adjusting pricing, targeting new guest segments, and enhancing your property’s appeal, you can minimize seasonal dips and increase your short-term rental off-season bookings.

Need expert help managing your short-term rental? TruStay specializes in optimizing rental performance year-round. Contact us today to learn how we can help!