How to Get Repeat Bookings on Airbnb (Without Spending on Ads)

Most Airbnb hosts focus so much on getting new bookings that they forget the goldmine right in front of them: repeat guests. A guest who already stayed with you, had a great experience, and knows what to expect is 10x more likely to book again—and costs you nothing to acquire. Here’s how to turn one-time visitors into loyal repeat guests, without spending a dollar on marketing.

1. Deliver a Guest Experience That’s Worth Repeating
Repeat bookings don’t start at checkout—they start at check-in.

• Clear communication
• Spotless space
• Thoughtful extras (coffee, local tips, snacks)
• Fast responses
  When a guest has a seamless, memorable stay, they’ll think of you first next time they’re in town.

2. Collect Emails (The Right Way)
While Airbnb doesn’t allow direct marketing through its platform, you can ask guests to voluntarily join a mailing list.

• Use a welcome card or printed sign: “Want a discount next time? Join our VIP list.”
• Include a QR code linking to a short form (via Google Forms or Mailchimp)
  This gives you a direct channel to reconnect once their trip ends.

3. Offer a Loyalty Discount for Returning Guests
Everyone loves a good deal—especially when it feels personal.

• Offer 10–15% off for returning guests
• Send a private message 3–6 months after their stay:
  “Hey [Name], just wanted to say thanks again for staying with us! If you're ever back in [city], we'd love to host you again—plus you’ll get a return guest discount!”
  Guests feel appreciated, not sold to.

4. Personalize the Experience for Returning Guests
If you know a guest is coming back:

• Leave a “Welcome back, [Name]!” note
• Add a small gift (coffee, wine, or local treat)
• Mention something they enjoyed from their last stay
  This turns your Airbnb into a place they feel connected to—not just another rental.

5. Stay Top of Mind (Without Being Spammy)
Use your email list to send:

• Seasonal booking windows (e.g. “Summer dates filling fast!”)
• Local event reminders (festivals, concerts, conferences)
• VIP offers or upgrades (early check-in, free parking, etc.)
  Keep it light, friendly, and guest-focused. Aim for 2–4 emails per year max.

6. Encourage Reviews That Future-You Can Reuse
Reviews with lines like “I’ll definitely stay here again!” or “This is our go-to spot in [city]” signal loyalty.
You can screenshot these and use them as social proof on your website, Instagram, or future direct booking site.

7. Create a Direct Booking Option for Return Guests
Eventually, you can offer a way for return guests to book directly with you—no Airbnb fees for either of you.
This could be through:

• Your own booking website (using Lodgify, Squarespace, or Hostaway)
• A private booking form via email
  Just make sure to follow Airbnb’s rules (don’t redirect first-time guests off-platform).

8. Know Your Repeat Booking Rate—and Raise It
If you’ve hosted 50+ guests and never had a repeat, it’s a signal.

• Are you too impersonal?
• Is your communication forgettable?
• Is your location too one-time-use (e.g. tourist-only)?
  Review your guest experience and look for ways to add a personal, memorable touch.

Repeat Guests Are the Easiest Guests
They check in with less confusion. They leave fewer surprises. They’re already sold. All they need is a reason to return—and a host who stays in touch.

Want help improving your guest experience, building a repeat guest system, or launching a direct booking funnel? BookedHosts offers full-service and virtual co-hosting that goes beyond basic management. Email info@bookedhosts.com or scroll down to submit your property today.

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