Creating Effective Guest Packages for Increased Reservations

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Overview

Packaging is an effective strategy to increase reservations and guest numbers with minimal or no cost. By creating packages, businesses can gain a competitive edge, entice guests to book more, increase revenue, and fill unoccupied rooms.

Key Benefits of Packaging

  • Leverage publicity or promotion of existing events or products.
  • Offer a broader range of products around your core business (accommodation).
  • Support or partner with other businesses while showcasing your destination, leaving guests with a lasting memory.
  • Attract more social media attention.
  • Increase the length of stay and guest spending.

Prerequisites

Before creating packages, consider the following:

- Analyze your database occupancy month by month using the RezExpert Rate Plan Manager panel for overall or specific unit type occupancy percentages. [Click here for information on the Rate Plan Manager - Occupancy Overview]

- Use the Type Revenue and Occupancy panel to display occupancy percentages for a selected date range for all unit types. [Click here for information about the Type Revenue & Occupancy panel]

- Identify saleable inventory and periods of unoccupied nights using the RezExpert Rate Plan Manager panel.

- Evaluate target markets and their average length of stay or attraction visits.

- Identify attractive add-ons within your business to suit the target market, such as late checkouts or "Stay for 3 nights, Pay for 2" offers.

- Network with local business operators for complementary elements.

Steps

  1. Create Packages:
    - Consider packages as an offer of convenience by combining several elements into one.
    - Set pricing correctly to ensure you are not discounting below your bottom line.
    - Confirm the primary seller of the package and relevant commission rates if working with a group of businesses.
    - Create cheat sheets for Front Desk staff to quickly see the packages on offer.
    - Ensure the product is delivered exactly as sold.
  2. Utilize Strategies:
    - Work towards increasing both occupancy and revenue levels throughout the year by implementing these strategies.

Troubleshooting

  • Ensure all staff have a firm understanding of the packages to sell them effectively.
  • Regularly review and adjust packages based on occupancy data and market trends.

Note: This article was provided by Caravan Industry Australia.