3 types of bookings all tour operators need

The key to success when you are a tour and activity provider is simple: bookings. You need people to book out the tours and excursions that you offer in order to remain in business.

While you got into the tourism industry in order to showcase your part of the world, to survive you will need to know how to maximize revenue from these three types of bookings.

Offline Direct Bookings

It may seem antiquated, but your business still needs offline bookings in order to survive.

To get more bookings offline, developing a positive brand identity and reliable reputation in your community is essential.

Here are a few tips for increasing your point of sale bookings from walk-ins and phone calls:

• Use traditional advertising methods like brochures in hotels and visitor centres, and flyers around your city.

• Make connections with the local visitor centre in your area, who may direct customers who are currently on holiday in your area right to your doorstep.

• Develop a positive relationship with hotel concierges in the region. Concierges are relied upon for personalized advice and recommendations.

Online Bookings

Online bookings play a major role in the success of any tour and activity business.

Today, many travelers use the Internet in order to create their own itineraries, and they want to be able to book their tours and activities quickly and easily.

Here are some tips for boosting your online bookings:

• Manage your business’s reputation on TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor is one of the most reliable sources of travel information, and many of your customers will be checking for your business there.

• Diversify your online distribution. Create coupon deals with daily deal sites like Groupon. Network with online travel agents. Stay involved on social media.

• Invest in an easy-to-use online booking system that is designed to automate the booking process.

Bookings through Agents

While many travelers can use the Internet in order to create their own vacation itineraries, many still rely on the expertise and knowledge of travel agents. Networking with online travel agents and retail travel agents will help you boost your bookings. Here are a few other tips for increasing your bookings through travel agents:

• Network with agents and let them know that they can earn a commission by booking through your online booking system. This will entice them to sell your tours and activities, because it is beneficial to them.

• Remember that agents will be cross-referencing your information with reviews placed online. Respond to all reviews, and do so as quickly as possible. Make online reputation management a top priority.

• Team up with other tour and activity providers in your area that complement the services you offer. Create a package deal that travel agents can sell to their customers.

Once you begin increasing your bookings, you may quickly become overwhelmed with keeping track of your resources and availability.

For more support and tips on how to increase sales in your travel business, follow the Rezdy’s blog.

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