💸 Things They Don’t Tell You in Glamping School: Episode 3

“How to Get More Direct Bookings Without Selling a Kidney

Let’s face it: OTA fees are like glitter—everywhere, impossible to remove, and somehow still showing up in your financials six months later. But fear not, noble glamping warrior. You can get more direct bookings without maxing out your overdraft or sacrificing your dignity.

Here’s how the smart (and slightly unhinged) operators are doing it:

🧠 1. Make Your Website Less of a Crime Scene

If your booking page looks like it was built during a power cut in 2007, guests will run—straight to Airbnb.

Fix the fonts. Kill the Comic Sans. Make the “Book Now” button bigger than your ego. And yes, it needs to work on phones. Even the cracked ones.

📣 2. Tell Guests Why Direct Is Sexy

“Booking direct helps us invest in quality, pay staff fairly, and avoid selling our souls to commission-hungry overlords.”

Say it loud. Say it often. Say it like you mean it.

Bonus points if you include a meme.

🎁 3. Bribe Them (But Make It Classy)

Early check-in, free firewood, a bottle of local wine, or a llama cuddle—whatever fits your vibe.

Just make sure it’s exclusive to direct bookings.

No need to undercut OTAs. Just out-charm them.

📨 4. Use Your Confirmation Emails Like a Cult Recruiter

Guests who booked via OTA? They’re already yours.

Now gently indoctrinate them: “Next time, book direct. We’ll love you more. And you’ll get free marshmallows.”

It’s emotional manipulation, but ethical.

📱 5. Stop Posting Sunsets and Start Posting Strategy

Your social media isn’t just for vibes—it’s for conversion.

Showcase your story, your standards, and your direct-only perks.

And for the love of glamping, link to your own site. Not the OTA. Not your cousin’s Etsy. Your. Own. Site.

🧾 6. Make Booking Less Like Filing a Tax Return

If your calendar requires a decoder ring and a blood sample, guests will bail.

Test it. Simplify it. And remove any steps that make people cry.

🤝 7. Collaborate With Local Legends (Not Just Your Mate Dave)

Partner with the vineyard, the paddleboard crew, or the cheese wizard down the lane.

Offer joint packages—but only via direct booking.

It’s delicious. It’s strategic. It’s not Dave’s dodgy cider tour.

Direct bookings aren’t just about margin—they’re about mission.

And if you’re still relying solely on OTAs, you’re not running a business. You’re starring in a hostage drama.

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