It might seem like running a traditional Bed and Breakfast (BnB) is out of fashion due to the popularity of Airbnb. However, many travelers are getting tired of having to clean up and still pay a cleaning fee and other things are again opting for stays in a hotel. This presents a great opportunity if you have a traditional BnB to take back some of that market share. 

To stay competitive, you’ll need to modernize your business by adding some features that today’s travelers are looking for. When you upgrade your BnB you’ll position yourself in a way that will resonate with a lot of travelers. In this article, we will go over several essentials to take care of to properly upgrade your BnB.  

1 - Improve the guest experience

Improving how guests feel during their stay is crucial for a BnB to stand out. A simple but effective way to do this is through staff appearance. Wearing hotel uniforms can make the staff look more professional and organized, which helps create a good impression. Uniforms also make it easy for guests to identify staff members when they need assistance.

You can improve the guest experience by helping to plan local excursions. Offering to arrange tours or providing information on the best local attractions adds a personal touch that many guests appreciate. This personal service is lacking from Airbnb and can make a stay more memorable and hassle-free for travelers who are unfamiliar with the area.

The physical comfort of guests is equally important. Invest in high-quality beds and keep rooms very clean. Updating bathrooms and adding modern amenities like fast internet, streaming services, and smart devices in rooms are also important.

2 - Renovate and update

To stay ahead of the competition, you need to regularly check and update your BnB’s look and feel. Start by figuring out which parts of your property need the most improvement. Usually this includes the guest rooms, common areas, or even outdoor spaces. 

When you’re thinking about a redesign, choose a décor that matches your BnB’s personality and attracts your ideal guests. Make sure the theme is consistent throughout your property. Using high-quality materials and choosing the right decorations can make your BnB more welcoming and appealing.

Adopting eco-friendly practices is a good idea, as sustainability is important to many travelers today. Use energy-saving appliances, local materials for your renovations, and eco-friendly cleaning products. These steps not only reduce your environmental impact but also make your BnB more attractive to guests who care about sustainability.

3 - Do better marketing

Having a strong online presence is key to bringing in more guests to your BnB. First, make sure your website is easy to use, looks good, and has all the important information like room details, prices, and what guests can expect. It should also have great photos and an easy way for visitors to book a stay.

Adding a blog to your website is a good way to get free organic traffic through the use of SEO. Write about topics that interest travelers, such as local events, sightseeing tips, and unique experiences offered at your BnB. 

Social media is another important way to reach potential guests. Keep your pages updated with attractive posts that show off your BnB. Share guest reviews, special deals, and behind-the-scenes looks to engage your audience. 

Email marketing is useful for keeping in touch with past guests. Send newsletters with updates, news, or special offers about your BnB to remind people about your place. This could help to encourage them to visit again or tell others about it.

4 - Embrace technology

It's important to update the technology at your BnB so it meets the needs of your guests. Install a modern property management system that can help manage everything from reservations to payments, making your operations smoother and enhancing the overall guest experience. It can also include features like online check-in, which saves time and makes the check-in process easier for guests.

Think about adding smart technology in guest rooms, such as thermostats, lights, and entertainment systems that guests can control with their smartphones. These updates not only increase comfort but also give your BnB a touch of modern luxury.

Reliable Wi-Fi is a must, it’s not even up for debate. Make sure that your internet service is fast and stable, as guests expect to stay connected for entertainment, work, or chatting with family and friends. Good internet is often key to their choice of where to stay.