There are a large number of rooms in hospitality properties that are not being filled with some experts saying up to half may be empty on any given night. This results in lost revenue and can start becoming a challenge for many properties in smaller towns and more rural areas that are heavily impacted by seasonal visitors. Overnight accommodations aren’t the only hospitality business impacted during slower seasons because many local businesses like restaurants and other attractions will be heavily impacted by the highs and lows in terms of tourists in the area throughout the year. However, there has recently been a growing trend of last-minute travel that has made it unpredictable to plan for future reservations.
Who Are These Last-Minute Travelers?
The first people you may be think of when it comes to last-minute travelers are those who are not well-organized. However, many of
these travelers are young professionals, families, and people who are looking for great-last minute deals online. Since the rise of the pandemic, hybrid and remote work has become much more common for many people, which gives them the opportunity to be much more open and spontaneous with their travel plans. According to a Forbes article in April of 2023, 2/3s of travelers are making reservations the same day of their travels. Research has also shown that travelers are spending more on property reservations compared to previous years.
The Benefits of Last-Minute Travelers
First and foremost, last-minute travelers will help increase revenue for the property, especially if it is in the slower
season. It helps boost the economy of the entire community because there is a likely chance that these guests will eat and spend money on local attractions in nearby places around the property. It helps improve jobs because many in the hospitality industry get reduced to part-time hours during the slower seasons, but an increase in last-minute reservations may increase uncertainty for the property and lead to more workers keeping their jobs full-time during the slower months.
How Properties Can Be Prepared for Last Minute-Travelers
One of the main issues with last-minute travelers is that it can be difficult for the hospitality properties to prepare for the expected daily guest volume. That is why it is important that the business is
well stocked with needed supplies like amenities and bed linens. That also includes making sure they have enough linens that are washed and ready to be used for the guests. InnStyle recommends having three sets of sheets per every guest room with one on the bed, one in the closet, and one in the washing machine. While there is no way of knowing how many guests will be staying on a given day, planning ahead is key to success.
InnStyle Can Help Your Property Stay Prepared
Travelers making last-minute bookings is becoming a trend, so it is important that you are prepared. InnStyle has bedding, towels, amenities, lodging, and dining accessories, and much more to help your property be more prepared for last-minute travelers and give it a competitive edge. Please give InnStyle a call about any hospitality questions you may have. They can be reached at 267-354-6020. Their website is https://www.innstyle.com/.