The festive season is one of the busiest travel periods in the UK, and this year, Christmas Airbnb bookings are climbing faster than ever. With families reuniting, travellers seeking cosy winter stays, and tourists exploring Christmas markets, demand for short-term rentals is at its peak.
For hosts, this surge brings a big opportunity — but only if you’re prepared. Here’s how you can get your property ready to welcome holiday guests and maximise your earnings this Christmas.
1. Refresh Your Listing for the Festive Season
Holiday travellers want a warm, inviting space. Update your listing title and description with seasonal touches to catch attention. Highlight features like:
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Heating and insulation
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Christmas décor
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Nearby festive attractions
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Family-friendly amenities
Even small tweaks can boost visibility and help your listing stand out.
2. Add Cosy, Comfort-Focused Amenities
Winter stays are all about comfort. Consider adding:
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Extra blankets and pillows
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A hot drink station (tea, cocoa, coffee)
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Soft lighting or fairy lights
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A small Christmas tree or décor (simple, not overwhelming)
These thoughtful touches make your space feel like a home away from home.
3. Offer Flexible Check-In and Longer Stay Discounts
Many guests travel long distances during the holidays. Offering:
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Late check-in
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Self check-in
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Weekly stay discounts
…can significantly increase your chances of securing bookings from families or travellers staying for the full holiday period.
4. Double-Check Safety & Winter Maintenance
UK winters can be unpredictable. Make sure your property is ready for colder weather by checking:
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Heating systems
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Boiler performance
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Hot water timing
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Windows and insulation
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Outdoor lighting for early sunsets
A warm, well-maintained property makes the guest experience smoother and reduces complaints.
5. Update Your Pricing for Peak Demand
With demand rising, hosts can adjust their pricing accordingly. Use dynamic pricing tools or manually set festive-season rates while staying competitive for your area.
A small price increase during holiday peak dates (Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s) can significantly boost your revenue.
6. Provide Local Festive Recommendations
Guests love local experiences. Create a small guide that includes:
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Popular Christmas markets
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Ice-skating rinks
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Festive events
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Best restaurants open during Christmas week
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Transport tips for holiday schedules
This adds value and makes your listing more memorable.
7. Focus on Cleanliness & High-Quality Photos
A clean, beautifully presented property always sells better — especially during high-demand periods. Update your listing photos if you’ve decorated for Christmas and ensure the space looks warm, bright, and welcoming.
Final Thoughts
The surge in UK Christmas Airbnb bookings is a major opportunity for hosts. With the right preparation, you can attract more guests, earn more during peak season, and create a memorable festive experience for travellers.
A little effort now can turn December into your most successful month of the year.
