Pandemic or not, the staycation market is here to stay! In fact, travelers are searching “how to plan a staycation.” If you’re looking to gain more of the drive market share, there are a few key areas you should focus your local marketing efforts on. Set yourself apart from the competition with our real-world examples of how to encourage domestic bookings. Keep reading for ideas to not only book more staycations, but also workcations, and even daycations…
Flaunt Your Location
As a hotel or inn you need to think about what makes your location stand out. The staycation market is looking for a change of scenery and to cut back on travel time so they have more time to relax! If you own a secluded inn that’s a short drive away from a busy city, position yourselves as a peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle. Highlight nearby restaurants, attractions, events and activities that will make staycationers feel like they’re having an adventure in their own backyard. Travel publications will feature top destinations so it’s important to keep your ears to the ground and incorporate mentions into your marketing.
Examples:
Fall for New York’s Best Staycation Spot
Plan a Fun & Relaxing Texas Staycation at Our Guest Ranch
Fall in Love with the Outer Banks
Why You Should Plan a Georgia Staycation in Historic Savannah
Set a Resident Rate
Give yourself a competitive edge by offering a local resident rate. Consult with a revenue management expert to see if it may be worth offering a small discount of 10-15% to potential guests in your state and/or nearby drive states. Since these types of travelers are close to your property, you may also want to consider a Same Day Getaway rate which will help cover any last-minute availability and encourage spontaneous vacationers.
Examples:
Take 50% Off a Fireside Staycation
It’s Hometown Holiday Time
Same Day Getaway Special
Lean in to All-Inclusive
Market your staycation as a true home away from home, because sometimes, all staycationers want to do is just that, stay. If you have an on-site restaurant, bar, pool, gardens, firepit, then take advantage of these amenities to sell your property as an all-inclusive experience where the guest has everything they could possibly need. You should also be thinking about your potential workcation market. These types of travelers are looking for a flexible vacation that mixes work and play, so fast WiFi, hot coffee, and amenities like a fitness center or services like happy hour will matter most to them! Being able to bring their furry coworker is also a plus.
Examples:
Plan A Relaxing Massachusetts Staycation
Plan Your “Work” Day
Ditch the Office
Escape the Cubicle
Sell Day Passes
Recover lost revenue by offering day passes on weekdays or during the slow season when availability allows. Depending on your type of property, this may or may not be a right fit for you. Daycationers are small-scale staycationers that simply want a mental break for a day to enjoy your private access to the beach, dip in the pool, bites at your restaurant, or sips at the bar. Day passes range from as little as $25 to $100+ and allow for access to select amenities only, not lodging. Certain items are charged separately like restaurant meals or spa massages, or you can choose to include a small discount on them in your Day Pass rate.
Examples can be found on ResortPass and Daycation.
If you’re looking to tap into your local market, White Stone Marketing can help! Contact us today and we’ll evaluate your website and marketing efforts to ensure the staycation experience is front and center.