Platform fees eat 15-20% of your revenue. A direct booking website lets you keep more of what you earn while building direct relationships with guests.
The Case for Direct Bookings
- Save 15-20% in platform fees
- Own your guest relationships (email list, repeat bookings)
- Set your own policies (cancellation, payments)
- No algorithm dependency
What Your Website Needs
Essential Pages
- Home page with compelling hero image
- Property pages with photos and details
- Availability calendar
- Booking/inquiry form
- About page (build trust)
- Location/area guide
- Contact page
Essential Features
- Mobile-responsive design
- Fast loading speed
- SSL security certificate
- Clear calls-to-action
- Easy navigation
Platform Options
| Platform | Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Lodgify | All-in-one solution | $30+/month |
| Squarespace | Beautiful design | $16+/month |
| WordPress | Maximum flexibility | $10+/month |
Driving Traffic to Your Site
- Include website link in all platform profiles
- Mention website in guest communications
- Offer repeat guest discount for direct booking
- Google My Business listing
- Social media presence
Conclusion
A direct booking website is an investment that pays dividends through saved fees and stronger guest relationships.
