5 Ways to Increase Direct Bookings and Ditch High OTA Fees

By Jane Doe · June 20, 2025
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Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com and Expedia can be a great source of visibility, but their high commission fees can eat into your profits. The key to a healthier bottom line is to encourage guests to book directly with you. Here are five effective strategies to increase your direct bookings.

1. Offer a Best Rate Guarantee

Make it a no-brainer for guests to book direct. Offer a “Best Rate Guarantee” on your website and make sure it’s highly visible. If a guest finds a lower rate on an OTA, match it and perhaps offer a small additional perk like a free drink or a room upgrade.

2. Create Exclusive Direct-Booking Perks

Give guests a reason to book with you directly that they can’t get anywhere else. These perks don’t have to be expensive. Consider offering:

  • A complimentary breakfast
  • A welcome basket with local treats
  • A free room upgrade (when available)
  • Flexible check-in/check-out times
  • A discount code for a future stay

3. Optimize Your Website for Bookings

Your website is your most important direct booking channel. It needs to be fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. Most importantly, your booking engine should be simple and secure. A clunky or untrustworthy booking process will send potential guests straight back to the OTAs they know and trust.

4. Leverage Email Marketing

Build a relationship with your past guests and encourage them to book direct for their next stay. Send out regular newsletters with updates about your property, special offers, and reasons to visit the area. A simple “Book Direct and Save” message can be very effective.

5. Use Social Media to Your Advantage

Showcase what makes your property unique on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Share high-quality photos and videos, run contests, and engage with your followers. Make sure your “Book Now” button on these platforms links directly to your website’s booking engine.