Why Booking Direct Matters for Your Hilton Head Vacation
With gorgeous beaches, world-renowned golf, and an incredible food scene, it’s no wonder Hilton Head is a top vacation destination in the U.S.
Whether you’re considering visiting for the first time or you make an annual trip to the island each year, we want to make sure you know how to get the most out of your accommodation. From the best way to save money to key benefits and perks, did you know booking direct is the absolute best thing you can do for your group when planning a vacation?
If not, that’s okay! Property managers and owners are actively educating guests on the benefits of direct booking. Because it’s such a popular topic, there’s even a nationwide effort each year to spread the word!
Of course, we’re talking about National Book Direct Day! Keep reading to learn all about why booking direct matters for your next Hilton Head vacation, and start planning your trip today!
What is National Book Direct Day?
National Book Direct Day is a growing holiday in the vacation rental industry. Since its introduction on social media in 2018, the initiative has encouraged travelers to book directly with property managers rather than using online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb or Vrbo.
When is National Book Direct Day?
Each year, on the first Wednesday of February, property managers and owners flood social media with #BookDirect, and each year, more and more vacationers learn the benefits of this key travel strategy.
Whether you’re a first-timer or you’ve known about the perks of booking direct for years, be sure to keep an eye on the hashtag for announcements, specials, and key details for your favorite destinations.
Why Booking Directly with a Property Manager Matters
While booking through an OTA may seem like the easiest way to see all the properties in a certain area and compare prices, there are a lot of strings that come with that so-called convenience.
For example, did you know OTAs charge a commission? Not only do they get that fee from you, the customer, but they also charge the property management company a fee as well. To not take a loss on their properties, management companies and owners have to raise the cost of their homes on OTAs so they can break even. This means you’re losing money each time you don’t book directly.
Here are some other reasons why booking direct is the best choice for your Hilton Head vacation:
Flexibility
One of the best perks of bypassing third-party companies and booking directly is the added flexibility. From potentially flexible check-in and check-out times to more lenient cancellation policies, when you book direct, you’re more likely to have a smooth and accommodating experience.
If something doesn’t go as planned, property managers are often more willing to resolve issues on the spot, whereas OTAs have rigid policies and slow response times.
Better Inventory
You may think you’re seeing every house on the market, but many property management companies withhold their best homes from OTAs. And it makes sense when you think about it.
Why pay a fee to book a house that doesn’t need help getting booked?
Properties that are so popular that they’re consistently reserved rarely make it to the OTAs.
This means you’re missing the best properties in an area by only looking at OTAs. Browsing a property manager’s website is the best way to see all the available homes in an area. Speaking of, be sure to check out all our Island Getaway Rentals properties right here!
Communication
How often have you experienced long wait times or been transferred to multiple departments when dealing with customer service? When you book directly with a Hilton Head property manager, you get direct access to local experts who can answer your questions quickly and efficiently. Forget the frustrating back-and-forth with large companies—when you book direct, you’re working with people who know the area and can offer personalized advice.
Local Perks
Again - unlike OTAs, the employees of a property management company are local to the area. Many have even grown up in the towns you’re visiting. With that kind of insider knowledge, when you ask for recommendations on the best place to fish, best restaurants, or best companies to spend money with for activities, you’re getting true, local insight.
Additionally, many businesses have partnerships with one another, which can lead to discounts for you when you book things like boat charters, tours, or even rounds of golf. Be sure to ask your Island Getaway Rentals expert for their recommendations during your stay!
Prioritized Service
While property managers certainly won’t discriminate against folks who book via an OTA (we’re happy you’re here!), there are some benefits that come from booking direct. One of the most specific that comes to mind is in the case of a double booking. Property management companies are more likely to prioritize the direct booking over the OTA.
And to our previous point on communication, if all you have is your Airbnb contact info, anything that requires customer service assistance could put you right back in the middle of a communication nightmare.
When you book directly with Island Getaway Rentals, you’ll receive emails and direct communication that make it easy to contact us should you need anything during your stay.
Find Your Dream Hilton Head Vacation Rental Today!
Now that you know all the perks of National Book Direct Day, there’s just one thing left to do: Book your stay! By booking direct with Island Getaway, you are guaranteed to get the best price possible on the vacation rental you want.
Our inventory has everything from oceanfront properties to pet-friendly homes where the entire family can tag along. Check them out here on our easy-to-use direct booking website!
When you find your perfect spot, you can reserve it online or contact us! Our team will be in touch with all the info you need for your stay and is available to assist you with anything you need from check-in to check-out.
Enjoy a stress-free vacation planning process when you #BookDirect on your next Hilton Head Island trip with Island Getaway Rentals.