Looking backward may be comfortable, but it won't drive future success. The future of hospitality belongs to those who actively listen to what travelers are searching for today. 

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The vacation rental market trends are shaping 2025, and next year will be a year of transformation. With shifting guest preferences, blurred lines between accommodation categories, and new challenges on the horizon, short-term rental operators must adapt to remain competitive.

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At Beyond, we’ve launched our latest report, "A Look Beyond: The Future Of Stays Starts Now", to help property managers and hosts navigate this changing landscape. Packed with data-driven insights and actionable strategies, this report explores the key trends and tools that will define success in the upcoming year.

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The New Era of Competition: What Beyond’s Search Data Shows

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Gone are the days when vacation rentals competed solely with each other. Today, the competition spans the entire Stays industry—hotels, hostels, boutique inns, and beyond. Guests are no longer choosing a specific category of accommodation; instead, they’re prioritising options that align with their destination, preferences, and unique travel goals.

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This shift has profound implications for operators:

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• Competing on Experience: Guests seek authenticity and personalised touches that connect them to local communities.
• Adapting to Demand: Late searches are more and more common. Operators must anticipate evolving guest preferences in real time, rather than relying solely on historical data.
• Pricing strategically: Demand remains strong, but booking windows are shrinking. This highlights the need for a more strategic approach tracking early search data to gauge demand levels and comparing that with regional occupancy rates. 

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“As we move toward 2025, the competition isn’t just between short-term rental operators in the same market; it’s the entire stays industry, from hotels to hostels to campsites and glamp-sites. Competing effectively means embracing and translating real-time insights to match traveler desires. Based on data and the latest trends, we know that travelers are craving authentic, personalized experiences that connect them to the places they visit – not just a place to sleep.” Julie Brinkman, CEO 

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Download the report to see the data!

Vacation Rental Market Trends Shaping 2025

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1. Vacation Frequency: Less is More 

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Vacation frequency is dropping, with over 70% of travelers taking fewer trips due to economic concerns. To attract them, highlight value-packed promotions and unique property features.

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💡 Tip: Showcase what makes your property stand out—authenticity, local culture, or unique amenities.

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2. Rise of Eco-Friendly and Intimate Stays 

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Eco-conscious travel is growing, with 30.6% of travelers prioritizing sustainable accommodations. Rest and relaxation remain key, with nearly half of respondents preferring all-inclusive, peaceful experiences by the beach or poolside.

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💡 Tip: Incorporate eco-friendly practices and promote tranquil or immersive stays to appeal to guests seeking sustainability and serenity.

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3. Cost and Booking Timing Are Critical

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Cost drives decisions for 62% of travelers, but guests are willing to pay more for standout amenities, cleanliness, and safety. Booking lead times are shrinking, with many travelers waiting until the last minute while expecting fair pricing and flexible options.

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💡 Tip: Optimize pricing with demand data and encourage early bookings to balance occupancy and avoid heavy discounts. Highlight your property’s value and prime location to attract cost-conscious guests.

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Download the report to see all the trends!

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AI’s Growing Impact on Travel

Leveraging predictive technologies is no longer optional—it’s essential. Our report highlights how tools like Search Powered Pricing can give property managers a competitive edge by integrating search data into their pricing strategies.

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“We've seen impressive advancements in revenue management tools that allow for sharper, data-driven decisions in real-time with AI. By automating repetitive tasks, AI is empowering revenue managers to focus on strategic growth rather than just operational work. Additionally, AI’s ability to forecast demand with real-time data—rather than relying solely on historical trends—brings greater accuracy. This is a game-changer for pricing and occupancy strategies, giving businesses the resilience to navigate market shifts with a steady hand.” María Flores Portillo, CRO. 

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Download the report to see more!

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Preparing for Success in 2025

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As 2025 approaches, the key to thriving lies in understanding what matters most to your guests. Whether it’s tailoring amenities, adjusting pricing strategies, or leveraging predictive data, operators must remain agile and proactive.

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Here’s How to Get Started:

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• Embrace Data-Driven Strategies: Use tools that provide real-time insights into guest behavior and market trends.
• Optimise Pricing Strategies: Balance competitive pricing with maintaining value to attract both budget-conscious and premium travelers.
• Highlight Unique Experiences: Position your property as more than just a stay by emphasizing its connection to the local community and unique offerings.

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Dive deeper into these trends and discover how to future-proof your short-term rental business. Download the full report here to access actionable insights and strategies to help you thrive in 2025 and beyond. 

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