Looking backwards might feel comfortable, but it won’t drive future success. The future of hospitality belongs to those who actively listen to what travellers are searching for today.
Holiday rental market trends are shaping 2025, marking a year of transformation. With shifting guest preferences, blurred lines between accommodation types, and new challenges on the horizon, short-term rental operators must adapt to stay competitive.
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 evolving landscape. Packed with data-driven insights and actionable strategies, the report delves into the key trends and tools that will define success in the coming year.
The New Era of Competition: What Beyond’s Search Data Shows
Gone are the days when holiday rentals competed only with one another. Today, competition spans the entire stays industry—hotels, hostels, boutique inns, and more. Guests are no longer committed to a specific type of accommodation; instead, they prioritise options that align with their destination, preferences, and unique travel goals.
This shift carries significant implications for operators:
- Competing on Experience: Guests seek authenticity and personalised touches that connect them with local communities.
- Adapting to Demand: Last-minute searches are increasingly common. Operators must anticipate evolving guest preferences in real time, rather than relying solely on historical data.
- Pricing Strategically: Although demand remains strong, booking windows are shrinking. This underscores the importance of tracking early search data to gauge demand levels and aligning this with regional occupancy rates.
“As we move toward 2025, competition isn’t limited to short-term rental operators in the same market; it’s the entire stays industry, from hotels to campsites and glamping sites. Competing effectively means translating real-time insights into strategies that meet travellers’ desires. Based on the latest trends, we know travellers crave authentic, personalised experiences that connect them with the places they visit—not just a bed for the night.”
Julie Brinkman, CEO
Download the report to see the data!
Holiday Rental Market Trends Shaping 2025
1. Holiday Frequency: Less is More
Holiday frequency is dropping, with over 70% of travellers taking fewer trips due to economic concerns. To attract them, highlight value-packed promotions and unique property features.
💡 Tip: Showcase what makes your property stand out—authenticity, local culture, or unique amenities.
2. Rise of Eco-Friendly and Intimate Stays
Eco-conscious travel is growing, with 30.6% of travellers prioritising sustainable accommodations. Rest and relaxation remain key, with nearly half of respondents preferring all-inclusive, peaceful experiences by the beach or poolside.
💡 Tip: Incorporate eco-friendly practices and promote tranquil or immersive stays to appeal to guests seeking sustainability and serenity.
3. Cost and Booking Timing Are Critical
Cost drives decisions for 62% of travellers, yet guests are willing to pay more for standout amenities, cleanliness, and safety. Booking lead times are shrinking, with many travellers waiting until the last minute while expecting fair pricing and flexible options.
💡 Tip: Optimise pricing with demand data and encourage early bookings to balance occupancy and avoid steep discounts. Highlight your property’s value and location to attract cost-conscious guests.
Download the report to see the data!
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.
“We’ve witnessed impressive advancements in revenue management tools that enable sharper, data-driven decisions in real time with AI. By automating repetitive tasks, AI empowers revenue managers to focus on strategic growth rather than operational work. 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.”
María Flores Portillo, CRO
Preparing for Success in 2025
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.
Here’s How to Get Started:
- Embrace Data-Driven Strategies: Use tools that provide real-time insights into guest behaviour and market trends.
- Optimise Pricing Strategies: Balance competitive pricing with maintaining value to attract both budget-conscious and premium travellers.
- Highlight Unique Experiences: Position your property as more than just a stay by emphasising its connection to the local community and unique offerings.
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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