Get More Bookings on Booking.com

Booking.com
Written By Ben .
How to rank better on Booking.com

Why is Booking.com so important?

Booking.com and other online travel agents (OTA’s) such as Expedia are growing in use. It is no longer a channel a motel can just set and forget. Working on the factors that increase your visibility and conversion rate on Booking.com is becoming increasingly important if you want to maintain your market share.

In the highly competitive online travel marketplace, motels must optimize their Booking.com listings to rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers. This report examines global best practices as of 2025 for improving a motel’s performance on Booking.com, and highlights where Australian strategies may differ from global norms. We cover how Booking.com’s ranking algorithm works, the role of images, profile optimization, guest reviews, pricing tactics, and Australia-specific insights, with examples and data-driven recommendations.

Evaluating your existing position

Before you start working on your properties Booking.com or Expedia page lets have a look at where you are placed in your city. It is important to check if you need to make improvements, if you are coming up first in your area then there maybe less benefits to improving your Booking.com listing.

Booking.com’s Search Algorithm: Key Ranking Factors

Booking.com’s search algorithm is fundamentally driven by delivering results that maximize bookings and revenue for the platform. In fact, the algorithm’s “core formula” prioritizes properties expected to generate higher profit for Booking.com – essentially a function of booking volume, price, and commissionotamiser.com. Simplified, Booking.com favors listings that:

  • Drive more bookings (high conversion) – Properties that consistently get bookings (i.e. have a high conversion rate from views to reservations) tend to rise in the rankings otamiser.commara-solutions.com. Conversion is so crucial that Booking.com openly encourages partners to improve it, as higher conversion signals a “popular and desirable” listing to the algorithm mara-solutions.com. Metrics like click-through-rate (CTR) from search results and the ratio of bookings to page views are closely watched; a higher CTR and more bookings per impression will boost your visibility otamiser.comotamiser.com.

  • Have competitive pricing and availability – The algorithm favors listings with competitive rates and plenty of open inventory. All else equal, a motel offering a good value price and wide availability is more likely to appear higher hostaway.com. Keeping prices in line with the market (or better) improves conversion and thus ranking otamiser.com. In practice, Booking.com’s system rewards “listings with a high level of availability and competitive rates” by prioritizing them in results hostaway.com. Motels should ensure their calendar is loaded with availability (the platform recommends having at least a year open for booking) and adjust rates to stay attractive during both peak and off-peak periods. Being sold out or overpriced for the search dates means your property simply won’t show up for many users. Conversely, wide availability (no restrictive minimum stays or blackout dates) makes your motel eligible for more searches, improving visibility hostaway.com. With these points on availability and pricing it is always a balancing act to optimize visibility on OTAs with profitability overall.

  • Earn high guest ratings (reviews) – Guest review score is a major factor in the internal ranking. Properties with higher average review scores rank higher because they have proven guest satisfaction otamiser.comavantio.com. In fact, one guide notes that the guest review score is “the first factor” influencing search order: listings with ~9.0+ averages appear more often, while those below ~8.0 may only show if a user filters by something very specific mara-solutions.com. Simply put, better reviews not only attract more guests but also directly improve your placement on Booking.com. We discuss strategies to manage reviews in a later section, but motel operators should treat guest satisfaction as foundational to ranking success avantio.com.

  • Maintain a complete, and engaging listing (content) – Booking.com wants to show listings that are informative and appealing to guests. The algorithm therefore takes into account the completeness and quality of your property content: detailed descriptions, a full list of amenities, and plenty of high-quality photos hostaway.com. A fully optimized profile with engaging photos and descriptive copy is a must mara-solutions.com. Properties that provide what guests are looking for (e.g. if a user applies filters for certain amenities or property type, only listings that have those attributes filled in will appear) have a clear advantage mara-solutions.com. In practice, this means motels should fill out every section of the listing—amenities, house rules, room details, etc.—to match as many relevant searches as possible. Booking.com even measures a Property Page Score; achieving 100% completeness can yield up to 18% more bookings according to their data lodgify.com.

  • Respond and engage actively – While not as heavily weighted as the above factors, Booking.com does track owner responsiveness and activity. A fast response time to guest inquiries or reservation requests can improve your “quality” score on the platform hostaway.com. The logic is that responsive hosts tend to create better guest experiences (leading to better reviews and fewer problems). Likewise, updating your listing regularly (rates, availability, photos) signals that you are an active partner. For example, keeping your calendar updated daily and promptly replying to messages can subtly help your ranking over less responsive competitors otamiser.com, hostaway.com. Booking.com’s own guidance suggests that a prompt response (ideally within a few hours) is beneficial hostaway.com.

  • Favor Booking.com programs & profitability – Finally, properties that participate in programs beneficial to Booking.com can get a boost. For instance, listings that opt into a higher commission tier (like the Preferred Partner Program) or use the temporary Visibility Booster (increasing commission for short-term placement gain) will be prioritized in search results otamiser.comhostaway.com. Booking.com openly acknowledges that higher commission contributions can improve ranking otamiser.com. Similarly, joining the Genius loyalty program (which requires giving a discount to Genius members) yields a visibility boost in exchange for that value-add to guests hostaway.com. We will cover these programs in the pricing and promotion section, but it’s important to note here that the algorithm isn’t purely guest-centric; it balances guest preference with Booking.com’s commercial interests. In summary, a motel that converts well, delights guests (high reviews), offers competitive pricing/availability, maintains great content, and strategically uses Booking.com’s programs will tick all the algorithm’s boxes for high ranking.

(Note: The Booking.com algorithm also uses personalization—factors like a user’s search history, loyalty status, and past bookings—to tailor results mara-solutions.com. This means each traveler might see a slightly different ordering. For example, if a user often books motels similar to yours, Booking.com may show your property higher to that user. While you cannot control a guest’s history, you can ensure your listing appeals to your target audience so that you benefit from these personalized boosts when relevant.)

High-Impact Image Strategy for Ranking and Conversion

Images are one of the most critical elements of your Booking.com listing. They shape first impressions and heavily influence both your click-through-rate and conversion rate. In fact, travelers often decide whether to even click on a property based on the thumbnail photo shown in search results hostaway.com. Booking.com’s own research has shown a strong correlation between comprehensive photo content and bookings. Experiments indicate that displaying ~24 high-quality property photos (overall) and about 4 photos per room type (including at least one photo of each bathroom) has a positive impact on conversion travel.mondosol.com. The lesson is clear: motels should invest in great photography. Key best practices include:

  • Use high-resolution, well-lit photos – Ensure all images are high quality, in landscape orientation, and brightly lit. Booking.com recommends a resolution around 2048 x 1536 pixels (approximately 3 megapixels) for optimal display, with an absolute minimum of 1280 x 900 travel.mondosol.com. Bright, clear photos appear more professional and inviting. Take advantage of natural daylight; open curtains, turn on lights, and avoid dark or grainy shots. As one guide puts it, “light is a photographer’s best friend” – bright photos make your space look more attractive travel.mondosol.com. If possible, consider hiring a professional photographer for a polished result hostaway.com. The investment can pay off, as listings with truly eye-catching photos can see significantly higher click-through and booking rates.

  • Show multiple angles and all important spaces – For each room type or space in your motel, include several photos from different angles travel.mondosol.comhostaway.com. Guests want a complete view – for example, a room might have one shot of the bed area, another of the bathroom, another of a seating area or desk, etc. Booking.com actually encourages at least four photos per room, with one being the bathroom partner.booking.com. Don’t forget common areas and exterior shots: if your motel has a lobby, breakfast room, pool, parking area, or attractive facade, include those as well. The goal is to let potential guests virtually tour your property. A selection of around 5–10 good photos per room/unit is a good target; one vacation rental study found that even 5–10 high-quality photos can increase booking potential by up to 29% avantio.com.

  • Highlight your best features – Make sure to photograph the amenities and features that set your motel apart hostaway.com. If you have a swimming pool, include well-composed photos of it (perhaps day and evening shots). If you recently renovated bathrooms or have a scenic view from some rooms, showcase that. For motels, common draws might include free parking space (you could show the parking lot if it’s sizable and convenient), on-site dining or continental breakfast setup, outdoor patios or gardens, or family-friendly facilities. Think about what your target guests value (e.g. a play area for families, a workspace for business travelers, a BBQ area for road trippers) and make sure those visuals are included. These images not only entice viewers but also can be tagged and surfaced when travelers use filters (for example, Booking.com might prompt you to add photos tagged as “Swimming Pool” or “Breakfast” if those amenities are markedtravel.mondosol.com).

  • Arrange and tag photos effectively – The order of your photos matters. Your first photo (the cover image) should be the most appealing shot of your most attractive room or feature, since this is the image that appears in search results. Some experts suggest A/B testing different thumbnails to see which yields a higher CTR otamiser.com – for instance, you might try a photo of a beautiful room interior vs. an exterior shot of your property and monitor which gets more clicks. Also, categorize your images in the extranet by room and by category. Booking.com allows you to tag photos (e.g. as “Bedroom”, “Bathroom”, “Exterior”, “Dining” etc.), which helps the platform show the appropriate images to users and ensures you appear in filtered resultslodgify.comlodgify.com. For example, if a user filters to see only properties with “Dining area” and you have a photo tagged as a dining area, that could improve your relevance. Use a broad range of tags corresponding to your amenities, but keep them accurate.

  • Quality and consistency – Ensure all images have a consistent level of quality and up-to-date accuracy. Remove or replace outdated photos (if you’ve upgraded furnishings, for instance, update the images to reflect that). Consistency in lighting and style across photos gives a professional look. Avoid distractions in shots – rooms should be clean and staged neatly (no guests or staff in the frame, no clutter). Minor staging touches can help: e.g. a nicely made bed with a couple of cushions, towels folded in the bathroom, good positioning of furniture to showcase space. Since Booking.com doesn’t allow captions on photos, the images themselves must tell the story, so make each one count.

In summary, a robust image gallery improves both your ranking (through higher engagement/CTR) and conversion (by instilling confidence and desire). Travelers on Booking.com often scroll through photos before reading descriptions; by providing an abundance of high-quality images, you keep them on your page and increase the likelihood of a booking.

Profile Optimization: Descriptions, Amenities, and Property Details

Beyond photos, the textual and informational content of your Booking.com listing is a critical driver of both visibility and conversion. An optimized profile means that your motel appears in the right searches and meets guests’ expectations when they click on it. Here’s how to maximize your profile:

  • Craft a compelling description (and profile) – Booking.com generates a basic property description from the information you provide (like room details, location, amenities). However, you also have a “Your profile” or host introduction section – use this to tell the story of your motel and highlight unique selling points lodgify.com. Keep it clear and concise while packing in key information that might not be obvious from the standard fields. For example, mention if your motel is family-run or recently renovated, or if it’s known for friendly service. Emphasize what makes your property special: “Quiet roadside motel with scenic mountain views” or “Convenient stopover only 5 minutes off Highway X, with free hot breakfast for guests,” etc. Also, think like your target guest – what would they want to know? If you cater to families, talk about your family rooms or playground; if you target business travelers, highlight the free Wi-Fi and desk space. A detailed profile builds trust and can improve conversion by aligning with guest priorities lodgify.com. (Remember that excessive length can deter readers – aim for an informative yet digestible overview, broken into short paragraphs or bullet points if possible.)

  • List all amenities and services – The amenities you list directly affect your search visibility. Many guests use filters (e.g. “Free parking”, “Pet-friendly”, “Pool”, etc.) to narrow down options. If you fail to tick a box in the amenities list, your motel will be excluded from those filtered results lodgify.comlodgify.com. Go through Booking.com’s amenities checklist carefully and mark everything that applies. This includes the obvious (air conditioning, Wi-Fi, parking, breakfast, room facilities) as well as smaller details: e.g., kettle or coffee maker in rooms, hairdryer, toiletries, Netflix access, etc. Travelers do notice these details. In one example, providing streaming services like Netflix was noted to boost bookings because guests value entertainment options lodgify.com. Additionally, if your property offers any special conveniences (e.g. late check-out on request, free luggage storage, shuttle service, etc.), mention them. A good tactic is to study competitors’ listings in your area to see what amenities they highlight; you may discover features you have but forgot to list lodgify.com. The goal is twofold: ensure you appear in as many relevant searches as possible and appeal to guests by showcasing a complete set of features.

  • Use property type and location tags effectively – Make sure your property is correctly classified (e.g. as a “Motel” or “Inn” as opposed to a generic hotel, if those options exist) and take advantage of location-based content. Booking.com sometimes lets you tag nearby landmarks or attractions lodgify.com. For instance, if a famous national park, beach, or event venue is close by, you might be able to associate your listing with that. Guests filtering for accommodations “near X” will then see your property lodgify.com. In Australia, for example, if your motel is near a well-known site (say, “12 Apostles” or a popular highway stop), highlighting that proximity can attract more views. Also, within your description or profile, organically mention your location and neighborhood features using common keywords travelers might search (e.g., “10-minute walk to Brisbane CBD” or “short drive to Great Ocean Road”). This can improve relevance for those typing specific queries on Booking.com. Essentially, leverage any categorical tags and textual cues that align your motel with popular search criteria.

  • Optimize the property layout and room details – In the extranet, you can specify detailed room information: max occupancy, bed configurations, room size, etc. Fill these out accurately and completely. If you have multiple room types (e.g. Queen Room, Twin Room, Family Suite), ensure each is listed as a separate room type with its own description and photos. This not only helps shoppers find the right room, but Booking.com can match your availability to more search variations (a group of 3 might only see properties that have a triple or family room available, for example). Indicate things like “Children can be accommodated” and any extra-bed or crib options if relevant – many family travelers filter by these. Also, clearly state your policies (house rules, check-in/check-out times, etc.) in the provided sections. Ambiguity in policies can lead to misunderstandings and bad reviews. It’s better to be transparent – for instance, if you don’t allow check-in after 10pm, put that in the fine print. However, avoid overly stringent restrictions that might remove you from results: for example, requiring too long of a minimum stay or very early booking cut-offs can exclude you from common searches lodgify.com. Strive for a balance where your motel is eligible for last-minute bookings, one-night stays, etc., unless your business model absolutely requires limits. Many Booking.com users search for same-day or short stays, so consider loosening length-of-stay restrictions to capture that demand lodgify.com.

  • Maintain accuracy and manage expectations – A critical aspect of profile optimization is setting correct expectations. Make sure everything you list is accurate. If an amenity is only in some rooms, clarify that (or don’t list it as a general property amenity). Overpromising will lead to disappointment and poor reviews, which hurt conversion and ranking in the long run. As a practice, regularly review your listing as if you were a guest – is anything missing? Is anything misleading? For example, one frequent issue is check-in time: if you put 24-hour reception but actually you only have staff until 8pm, that will cause issues. It’s noted that unclear check-in details often lead to negative reviews lodgify.com. Australian motels, in particular, sometimes have limited front-desk hours; being precise about check-in arrangements (and offering flexibility when possible) can save your reputation lodgify.com. Good communication (we’ll touch on this in the review section) and clear info on the listing go hand-in-hand to keep guests happy.

Finally, take advantage of Booking.com’s own tools for listing optimization. The “Opportunity Centre” in the extranet will suggest content improvements specific to your property (for example, if you have too few photos of a certain room, or if adding an amenity could attract more bookings) hostaway.com. Likewise, the Analytics/Ranking Dashboard can show where you might be underperforming (e.g. low conversion for certain date ranges) so you can adjust content or pricing accordingly hostaway.com. Continuously improving your listing’s content will help maintain a high Property Page Score and ensure you stay competitive. As Booking.com’s content team says, it’s about empowering guests to compare – so you want to shine in those comparisons with rich information and a professional presentation mara-solutions.com.

Leveraging Guest Reviews to Climb Rankings

Guest reviews are the lifeblood of long-term success on Booking.com – they build trust with potential customers and feed directly into your search ranking. For motels, which often compete on cleanliness, comfort, and service rather than lavish facilities, a strong review profile can be your biggest differentiator. Here’s how reviews impact your performance and what you can do to manage them:

  • Reviews directly influence ranking and conversion – As mentioned, Booking.com heavily factors in the average review score when ordering search results. A higher score not only boosts your ranking but also makes travelers more likely to choose you. Many users apply the “8+” or “9+” review score filter, which could exclude your property if your score falls below those thresholds. Data shows that about 75% of travelers consider peer reviews important when seeking a welcoming host lodgify.com, underscoring that a great review profile will significantly increase conversion. Moreover, the platform may give an extra nudge to properties with consistently superb reviews (for example, properties that win the annual Traveller Review Awards for high ratings get a badge that can attract more clicks avantio.com). In short, every fraction of a point in your average score matters.

  • Deliver excellent service to earn positive reviews – The surest way to boost reviews is to exceed guest expectations. Focus on the basics that guests universally care about: cleanliness, comfortable beds, hot showers, reliable Wi-Fi, and friendly, helpful service. Guest satisfaction is the “foundation” of a high-ranking property avantio.com. Little touches can create a big impression at a motel – e.g. complimentary bottled water, local area info in the room, or a simple welcome from the owner. The happier your guests, the more likely they’ll leave glowing feedback. Some motels proactively provide a feedback form at check-out to catch any issues (so they can fix them before the guest leaves and prevent a bad online review). Remember, accuracy is key to satisfaction – ensure the experience matches what was promised online, as accuracy is something guests rate you on avantio.com. If you advertised “free breakfast” but it’s just a few packets of cereal, that gap will hurt your review.

  • Encourage guests to leave reviews – Volume of reviews also counts. A steady stream of fresh reviews not only keeps your score up to date but also instills confidence in future bookers (recent reviews prove you’re consistently good). Don’t be shy about asking for a review. Booking.com sends an automated review invitation after check-out, but a personal request can increase response rates. For example, at checkout or in a follow-up message, politely say: “We hope you enjoyed your stay. It would mean a lot to us if you could share your experience in a review on Booking.com.” Many happy guests will oblige when asked. Aim to get reviews from as many guests as possible – the occasional unhappy review will be diluted by numerous positive ones. Some properties even leave a small card in the room inviting a review. The Otamiser guide recommends asking every happy guest for a review otamiser.com. Just be careful never to offer incentives for reviews, as that’s against policy.

  • Respond to reviews (especially negative ones) – Both the Booking.com algorithm and customers appreciate when owners engage with reviews otamiser.com. A quick, professional response to a negative review can mitigate its damage. For instance, if someone complains about noise, you might respond: “We’re sorry you experienced noise. We are installing soundproofing and would love the chance to provide a quieter stay next time.” This shows prospective bookers that you care and act on feedback. Booking.com notes that responding to reviews signals you are an active, attentive host otamiser.com. Always keep responses courteous and thank the guest for their feedback. For positive reviews, a simple thank-you or note of appreciation is nice (though not required). Public responses are less common on Booking.com than some other platforms, but when used, they can turn a negative impression into a positive one for readers. Internally, make sure you learn from reviews: if multiple guests mention a weak Wi-Fi signal or a missing amenity, fix it. Showing continuous improvement can elevate your scores over time.

  • Maintain a high overall score and aim for awards – Try to keep your average rating in the high 8s or above. If you dip, analyze why (e.g. did a specific period or room drag it down?). Address root causes (for example, if several reviews cite dated decor, maybe time to refresh the rooms). Each year, Booking.com gives Traveller Review Awards to properties with excellent scores (generally 8+ with a certain number of reviews); earning this award and displaying it can further boost guest trust avantio.com. In Australia, many motels proudly display these awards on-site and mention them in descriptions, which can reassure guests who might be unfamiliar with the property. High scores also open doors to programs like Preferred Partner (which requires a strong review score among other criteria) hostaway.com.

In essence, good reviews create a virtuous cycle: higher rankings lead to more bookings, more guests to impress, and thus more good reviews. By actively managing guest satisfaction and your online reputation, you build an asset that significantly strengthens your Booking.com performance.

Pricing and Promotion Tactics Aligned with Booking.com’s Algorithm

Pricing strategy is another lever that can profoundly affect both your ranking on Booking.com and your conversion rate. Booking.com’s algorithm rewards competitive and strategically managed pricing, because attractive prices lead to more bookings. Additionally, the platform provides various promotional tools and programs that motels can leverage for greater visibility. Below are key pricing and promotion tactics:

  • Keep prices competitive and adjust often – Since the algorithm favors higher expected revenue, it’s not just about being the cheapest, but about offering value relative to your market otamiser.comotamiser.com. Use tools like Booking.com’s Price Performance Dashboard to compare your rates with competitors in your area hostaway.com. If you notice your motel is priced above similar properties and your conversion is low, consider adjusting rates. Implement dynamic pricing where possible: increase rates for high-demand dates (local events, holidays) and lower them in low season or last-minute to spur bookings otamiser.comhostaway.com. Many successful motels use channel manager software or revenue management tools to update Booking.com daily with optimized prices. This not only maximizes revenue but also signals to Booking.com that you’re an active partner with “fresh” pricing (the algorithm likes frequent updates as a sign of market-aware pricing hostaway.com). Also, ensure rate parity across channels – having a much lower price on another OTA or your direct website could hurt your Booking.com visibility (and if customers find out, they’ll book elsewhere). Strive to keep your Booking.com rates equal to or better than other sites otamiser.com.

  • Offer a mix of rate plans (flexible vs. non-refundable) – Cater to different guest preferences by providing multiple rate options. Many motels list a standard free-cancellation rate and a cheaper non-refundable rate. This captures both risk-averse travelers and bargain hunters. Booking.com notes that having flexible rate plans can increase conversions and widen your audience hostaway.com. Importantly, flexible cancellation policies are very attractive to Booking.com users. Guests often filter for “Free cancellation” and the platform prominently labels such listings. By offering free cancellation (at least until a certain date), you reduce the perceived risk for the booker. Studies have shown this can dramatically lift bookings – up to 75% increase in bookings when using a flexible policy, according to Booking.com data avantio.com. While flexible terms might lead to occasional cancellations, the boost in gross bookings often outweighs the downside. You can always balance this by also offering a non-refundable option for those willing to commit for a small discount. The key is to maximize your appeal: in low-demand periods, lean towards more flexible and promotional rates; in peak times, you can afford to be stricter.

  • Run promotions and discounts strategically – Take advantage of Booking.com’s built-in promotions to improve conversion and fill rooms. Some effective ones include: Last-Minute Deals (automatic discount for bookings within a few days), Early Booker Deals, Mobile-only rates (discount for customers booking via the app, which is a large user segment), and Country-specific rates to attract international travelers. These promotions can increase your visibility in certain scenarios (e.g. your listing gets a special badge or filter when a promotion is active) avantio.com. For instance, enabling a mobile rate might show a “Mobile Deal” tag to app users, helping you stand out. Similarly, participating in seasonal campaigns (like Black Friday or New Year promos run by Booking.com) can get you featured in email blasts or on special pages. Use promotions during off-peak times to stimulate demand. Just be mindful of your margins – set discounts that you can absorb. Booking.com’s extranet will often recommend promotions in the Opportunity Centre; consider those suggestions since they are based on market data.

  • Leverage the Visibility Booster when needed – The Visibility Booster is a tool allowing you to temporarily increase your commission rate on specific dates or date ranges to get higher placement hostaway.com. Essentially, you pay Booking.com a bit more for each booking in exchange for a push up the rankings during those times. Motels can use this tactically: for example, if you have a sudden cancellation and need to re-fill the room for the coming weekend, you might activate the booster for those dates to regain visibility. Or during a local event when the market is crowded with options, a higher commission could secure you a better rank. Use this sparingly and strategically – it’s best for short-term needs or highly competitive periods hostaway.com. You can turn it on and off easily, and even a small increase in commission percentage might move the needle if competitors aren’t doing the same.

  • Join Booking.com’s programs (Genius & Preferred) – These programs can significantly enhance your ranking and conversion, though they come with strings attached. The Genius Program is a loyalty program where you provide a standard 10% discount (and deeper discounts or perks at higher Genius levels) to Booking.com’s frequent travelers. In return, your property gets a special Genius badge and higher visibility to logged-in members. Booking.com reports that Genius participating properties see on average a 29% increase in bookings due to the increased exposure and appeal to loyal customers hostaway.com. For many motels, especially in tourist areas, the Genius boost can tap into a large pool of serious travelers. The downside is the discount cuts into your rate; however, you can control which room types or dates the discount applies to if you want to protect your peak season revenue. The Preferred Partner Program is another powerful tool – if you qualify (usually requires high review score, above-average conversion, and an already decent performance), you can opt to pay a higher commission (typically +3% on top of the base commission) to become a Preferred property hostaway.com. Preferred properties get a special thumbs-up badge and are ranked higher in searches (especially for generic searches in your area). This can be a game-changer for independent motels competing with larger hotels. Essentially, Preferred status puts you in an elite tier on Booking.com, which can yield a big jump in visibility hostaway.com. The extra commission is the trade-off. Many Australian motels that excel in reviews and want more bookings join Preferred despite the cost, because it often pays for itself in volume. Evaluate if your property meets the criteria and if so, the program can be worth it for the ranking boost.

  • Use length-of-stay and occupancy pricing to your advantage – If your motel has varied room types and capacities, consider offering discounts for longer stays or deals for certain occupancy levels. For example, a small discount for 3+ night stays can entice road trippers to linger an extra day, improving occupancy. While many motels primarily get one-night bookings, capturing a multi-night booking improves your conversion (fewer unsold nights) and could improve your ranking indirectly (since conversion is measured per search session – a booking for 3 nights is still a conversion). Also, adjust prices based on occupancy: if you have many rooms sitting empty for next week, lower the price or set a last-minute deal to boost the chance of filling them. Booking.com’s algorithm notices when you proactively react to low demand with better deals (because it leads to more bookings which they want) hostaway.com. On the flip side, in high-demand periods don’t shy away from higher rates – the algorithm will still rank you if you’re converting well relative to that demand. The key is the pricing conversion sweet spot: not too high to deter bookings, not so low that you leave money on the table.

  • Maintain a low cancellation and error rate – While not always highlighted, your cancellation rate (how often guests cancel bookings) and relocation rate (if you ever have to relocate or overbook guests) can affect your standing. Frequent cancellations (especially last-minute) hurt Booking.com’s business and frustrate guests, so properties with extremely high cancellation patterns might see reduced visibility. Encourage firm bookings by perhaps implementing some semi-flexible policies (to prevent very last-second mind changes) and ensuring your inventory is managed so you don’t have to cancel on guests. This ties into conversion too: if many bookings are canceled, your net conversion is lower. Similarly, avoid ever having to mark a room as a no-show charge if the guest actually showed up, etc. Keeping a clean record (no bad OTA behavior) will ensure nothing behind-the-scenes is dinging your rank.

In summary, a nimble pricing strategy that responds to market conditions and takes advantage of Booking.com’s promotional ecosystem will improve both your rank and your actual sales. Booking.com’s algorithm loves properties that maximize bookings (and thus its commission), so aligning your pricing and promotions to attract more bookings – whether via smart discounts, flexible terms, or special programs – ultimately feeds the algorithm what it wants otamiser.com. Just be sure to monitor the results so you maintain profitability while growing volume.

Australian Motels: Strategies vs. Global Norms

The core practices for succeeding on Booking.com largely apply worldwide, but the Australian motel market has some nuances worth noting. Motels are a staple of Australia’s accommodation sector – from highways in the Outback to coastal holiday towns – and they serve a mix of domestic road-trippers and international tourists. Here are a few Australia-specific insights and contrasts:

  • High reliance on Booking.com and OTAs – Australian accommodations, including motels, rely heavily on online travel agents for bookings. A 2023 industry barometer found that a vast majority (~84%) of Australian properties agreed that online travel platforms like Booking.com have helped them generate more bookings statista.com. This is in line with global trends, but it underscores that in Australia, being visible on Booking.com is crucial for capturing both domestic and overseas guests. Unlike some regions where specific local OTAs or direct booking play a bigger role, in Australia Booking.com is a dominant channel (often outranking competitors like Expedia or Agoda in traffic and usage). For motel operators, this means that investing effort into optimizing on Booking.com can yield big returns, as it’s often the first stop for travelers researching a place to stay Down Under.

  • Domestic travel patterns and amenities – Australian travelers frequently embark on long road trips and inter-city drives, making motels a popular choice for overnight stops. As such, certain amenities are especially important in the Australian context: free parking, easy late check-in, and proximity to major roads or towns. Globally these are valued too, but in Australia a huge proportion of motel guests arrive by car. Make sure your listing highlights free on-site parking prominently (it’s a filter many use). If your motel is along a popular route (e.g. Pacific Highway or Great Ocean Road), mention that in the description to catch road-trippers’ attention. Additionally, Australian motels often cater to families on holiday and older travelers; advertising family-friendly facilities (like family rooms, playground, pool) or accessibility features for seniors can set you apart. In contrast to big city hotels, motels might lack 24-hour reception – Aussie guests are somewhat accustomed to this, but you should clearly communicate self check-in procedures or limited front-desk hours to avoid issues (and potentially garner positive mentions in reviews for easy check-in if done well).

  • Seasonality and timing – Australia’s travel seasons are inverted for Northern Hemisphere travelers (peak summer holidays in December-January, winter low season in June-July in the south, etc.). If your motel is in a seasonal destination (e.g. a beach town in Queensland or a winter ski area), align your Booking.com strategy with these patterns. For instance, many Australian motels ramp up pricing during Christmas and school holidays (when domestic demand surges) and run special promotions in shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) to attract travelers. Internationally, this may be seen similarly (everyone has peak seasons), but one difference: Australian domestic holiday periods (school holidays, long weekends like Easter, etc.) create very pronounced spikes in demand. Be aware of these dates and use the promotion/visibility tools accordingly – e.g. use a Visibility Booster or ensure Genius/Preferred status especially during times like Australian school holidays, when competition for eyeballs is stiff. Conversely, during off-peak, consider targeting international markets through Booking.com’s country rate feature (e.g. offering a slight discount to Europeans during their summer, which is your winter, to entice them to come during what is a quieter period for you).

  • Competition and uniqueness – In many Australian regional towns, the number of accommodation options might be limited (perhaps a handful of motels, a caravan park, and a B&B). Globally in big cities the competition can be hundreds of properties, so algorithmic fights are intense. In smaller Australian locales, achieving top rank might be easier, but conversion still matters – if only 5 properties are in town, a traveler will see all five, and you want to convince them yours is the best. Lean into what makes your property authentically Australian or locally charming: for example, if you’re a countryside motel, you might mention native wildlife sightings on the property; if in the Outback, highlight the expansive scenery or night skies. These unique angles can resonate in reviews and descriptions, giving you an edge in conversion. Also, many Australian motels are independently owned (not chains), which means you can personalize the guest experience – something you should emphasize in content (e.g. “friendly local hosts who can recommend hidden gems in the area”). This personal touch can translate into better reviews and guest loyalty, helping you compete against globally standardized hotels.

  • Guest origin and language – Pre-pandemic, Australia saw millions of international tourists annually, many of whom used Booking.com to book motels while self-driving across the country. As international travel returns, consider that your Booking.com listing might be viewed by non-English speakers or those less familiar with Australian terms. Booking.com will auto-translate your descriptions, but it’s wise to avoid local jargon that might not translate well. For example, use “parking” instead of “car park”, or “one-story motel” instead of “single-level motor inn”, etc., to ensure clarity. Also, be mindful of listing measurement units both locals and foreigners understand (mention room sizes in square meters, as is standard on the platform). While these are small details, they cater to a global audience. If a significant portion of your guests come from particular countries (China, Germany, etc.), you could even add a welcome message in those languages via the extranet’s localized content feature or ensure your staff can handle basic queries, which could reflect in reviews (e.g. “the staff were helpful even though I don't speak English well”). Australian motels that adjust to international guests’ needs (like offering universal power adaptors, Asian breakfast options, etc.) might see a boost in those segments via word of mouth and reviews.

  • Regulatory and cultural factors – Australia has a strong culture of guest feedback and consumer rights. This means that if something goes wrong (like an unexpected fee or a misrepresented facility), Australian guests are quite likely to leave a pointed review or complain. Thus, transparency is key: include GST, resort fees, etc. in the price shown on Booking.com to avoid surprises. Culturally, Australian travelers value honesty and cleanliness; many will overlook dated decor if the property is spotless and the service warm. So while a flashy appearance matters online, backing it up with substance matters more for long-term success. Another point: some Australian motels participate in national star ratings or accreditation schemes; if you have a Star Rating Australia certification or have won local tourism awards, mention this in your description or titles, as it can instill additional trust (even though Booking.com doesn’t directly factor that into ranking, it can improve conversion by reassuring guests of quality).

In conclusion, Australian motels thrive on the same fundamental principles as motels anywhere: great photos, complete information, good reviews, and smart pricing. The difference lies in tailoring these practices to the travel behaviors and expectations prevalent in Australia. By focusing on the amenities that Aussie travelers value (parking, flexibility, local advice) and aligning with local demand cycles, Australian motel owners can apply global best practices in a way that maximizes results in their market. The evidence is clear that those who optimize their Booking.com presence reap the rewards in visibility and bookings – an outcome that holds true from Sydney to Alice Springs and beyond.

Conclusion

Ranking higher on Booking.com and driving more conversions is an ongoing process that requires attention to detail and responsiveness to both guests and the platform’s dynamics. By understanding how Booking.com’s algorithm prioritizes conversion and guest satisfaction, motel owners can focus on the factors within their control: maintaining competitive pricing and availability, showcasing the property with high-quality images and complete information, delivering excellent stays to foster positive reviews, and leveraging the promotional tools and programs that align with the algorithm’s goals. The 2025 best practices highlighted in this analysis – from using 24+ photos and tagging amenities, to embracing flexible cancellations and engaging with guest feedback – provide a roadmap for continuous improvement.

For Australian motels, these global strategies should be tuned to local market conditions, but the core principle stands: the more you meet guest needs and market smartly on Booking.com, the more the platform will reward you with visibility. Case studies and industry data consistently show that properties which invest effort into their online presentation and adapt to platform features see tangible gains in ranking and booking volume hostaway.comlodgify.com. In the digital age, a motel’s success is no longer just about location and price – it’s about your online curb appeal and reputation on sites like Booking.com.

By following the best practices and examples outlined here, motel operators can enhance their listing’s appeal, climb higher in search results, and ultimately convert more lookers into happy bookers. The result is a win-win: more guests through your door and a thriving business in the competitive travel marketplace.

Sources:

Ben .
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