Managing multiple vacation rental listings across platforms like Airbnb and VRBO can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to keeping your calendars synchronized. A double booking or an unavailable property can lead to unhappy guests and lost revenue. Fortunately, syncing calendars between these platforms can streamline your operations and prevent such issues. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to sync your Airbnb and VRBO calendars, ensuring seamless coordination and peace of mind.
If you want to know which platform is better between Airbnb and VRBO, read this blog: Airbnb vs. VRBO: An In-Depth Analysis for Short-Term Rentals
Why Syncing Calendars is Essential?
Before diving into the "how," let's briefly discuss the "why." Syncing your calendars is crucial for several reasons:
Avoid Double Bookings: Without synchronization, you risk accepting bookings for the same property on different platforms simultaneously, leading to cancellations and bad reviews.
Streamline Management: A synced calendar simplifies property management, saving you time and effort.
Optimize Occupancy Rates: By ensuring that all your listings reflect the same availability, you can better manage your pricing and maximize occupancy.
How to Sync Airbnb and VRBO Calendars?
Method #1.) Export Airbnb Calendar to VRBO
To sync your Airbnb calendar with VRBO, you'll first need to export the Airbnb calendar URL. Here's how:
Log in to Airbnb: Start by logging into your Airbnb account.
Navigate to Listings: Go to the "Listings" section and select the property you want to sync.
Calendar and Availability: Click on "Pricing and availability" and then "Calendar sync."
Export Calendar: Click on "Export calendar" and copy the URL provided.
Now, you can import this URL into VRBO:
Log in to VRBO: Access your VRBO account.
Select Property: Go to your property and navigate to the "Calendar" section.
Import Calendar: Click on "Import calendar" and paste the Airbnb calendar URL. Name the calendar (e.g., "Airbnb") and save.
Method #2.) Exporting VRBO Calendar to Airbnb
Similarly, you can export your VRBO calendar to Airbnb:
Log in to VRBO: Access your VRBO account.
Navigate to Calendar: Go to the "Calendar" section for the specific property.
Export Calendar: Click on "Export calendar" and copy the provided URL.
Next, import this URL into Airbnb:
Log in to Airbnb: Go to your Airbnb account.
Navigate to Listings: Select the relevant listing and go to "Pricing and availability."
Calendar sync: Click on "Import calendar" and paste the VRBO calendar URL. Name the calendar and save.
How to automate the sync of your Airbnb and VRBO calendars with Channel Managers
For hosts managing multiple properties or those looking for more automation, using a channel manager can be a game-changer. Channel managers are third-party services that integrate with multiple booking platforms, automatically syncing calendars and other property details. Popular options include:
Guesty: Known for its comprehensive management features. (Read our article on "Is Guesty Worth it?"
Lodgify: Offers a user-friendly interface and robust integration capabilities.
Hostfully: Provides a wide range of tools for property management.
Furthermore, you can also book any vacation rental management services as they are proficient in managing your rentals efficiently. The management service will also help you in getting short-term rental permits as they are crucial in Rhodes Island. Apart from this, Rhode Island has some strict rental laws and compliance with them is mandatory. You can find out about the rental laws here. However, the cost of management varies depending on the services offered and the management company's track record, including success stories.
Tips for Effective Calendar Management
Regularly Check Syncs: While calendar syncs are generally reliable, it's wise to periodically check that your calendars are correctly updating.
Consider Time Zone Differences: Be mindful of time zone differences when syncing calendars, as this can affect booking times.
Communicate with Guests: Always inform your guests about the booking process and availability to avoid confusion.
Conclusion
Synchronizing your Airbnb and VRBO calendars is a straightforward but crucial task for any vacation rental host. By following the steps outlined above, you can avoid double bookings, streamline your operations, and ensure a seamless experience for your guests. Whether you choose to sync manually or use a channel manager, staying on top of your calendar management is key to a successful short-term rental business.
FAQs
Q: How often should I check my synced calendars?
A: While automated syncs are reliable, it's good practice to check them weekly or whenever you receive new bookings.
Q: Can I sync other platforms with Airbnb and VRBO?
A: Yes, many channel managers support multiple platforms, including Booking.com, Expedia, and more.
Q: Is there a cost associated with using a channel manager?
A: Yes, most channel managers charge a fee, which can vary based on the number of properties and services offered.
By following this guide, you can effectively manage your vacation rental calendars and ensure a smooth experience for both you and your guests. Happy hosting!
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