Now that many areas are opening to fully vaccinated travelers, people are starting to go on trips. With this comes the demand for traveler’s inns. If you’re thinking of starting your own, here are some tips to help you start and run it.
- Tips for Running a Traveler’s Inn
- 1. Location, location, location.
- 2. Choose your type of traveler’s inn carefully.
- 3. Offer a variety of amenities.
- 4. Ensure that your premises are always clean and everything is working properly.
- 5. Keep your rooms comfortable.
- 6. Have a good breakfast spread.
- 7. Train your staff well.
- 8. Get feedback from guests.
- 9. Create a welcome packet.
- 10. Make your inn pet-friendly.
- 11. Reward loyal guests.
- 12. Use technology to your advantage.
- 13. Keep your website up to date.
- 14. Make use of social media.
- 15. Use traditional marketing methods.
- 16. Get involved in the community.
- 17. Sponsor local events.
- 18. Stay up to date on industry trends.
- Welcome More Guests
Tips for Running a Traveler’s Inn
1. Location, location, location.
The closer to popular tourist destinations your inn is, the more business you’ll get. But don’t forget about other important factors like access to public transportation and various restaurants and shops within walking distance.
2. Choose your type of traveler’s inn carefully.
Do you want to focus on budget-minded travelers or attract those looking for a bit of luxury? Or maybe you want to cater to both groups?
3. Offer a variety of amenities.
That will help set your inn apart from the competition and give travelers what they’re looking for. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and on-site parking.
4. Ensure that your premises are always clean and everything is working properly.
Regular maintenance means daily thorough cleaning, frequent checks on the facilities, and routine preventive maintenance tune-ups on all equipment. Despite this, there could be occasional breakdowns so ensure that you have service providers on call 24/7. For instance, in cold weather, you will need immediate boiler repair if it breaks down.
5. Keep your rooms comfortable.
That seems like a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning because it’s so important. Travelers should feel like they’re getting their money’s worth when they stay at your inn, so paying attention to the little details is key. Ensure that your beds are comfortable, your rooms are soundproof and hang blackout curtains. From fresh towels and linens to bottled water in the room, paying attention to the small things will make a big impression on your guests.
6. Have a good breakfast spread.
Start your guests’ day off right with a delicious and hearty breakfast. That is often one of the most important meals for travelers, so make sure it’s up to par.
7. Train your staff well.
Your staff is one of your most valuable assets, so be sure to train them well. They should be able to answer any questions guests might have and make them feel welcome during their stay.
8. Get feedback from guests.
Feedback is essential to improve your inn and give guests what they want. Use surveys, comment cards, or even social media to gather feedback from guests after their stay. Have a system for handling complaints quickly and efficiently.
9. Create a welcome packet.
That is a great way to introduce your inn and its amenities to guests upon their arrival. Include things like maps, restaurant suggestions, and any other helpful information they might need during their stay.
10. Make your inn pet-friendly.
More and more travelers bring their pets with them when they hit the road, so this is a great way to attract new business. Just be sure to have some rules to keep both guests and staff safe and comfortable.
11. Reward loyal guests.
Loyalty programs are a great way to show appreciation for your regular guests. Offer discounts, free nights, or other perks to those who frequently stay at your inn.
12. Use technology to your advantage.
There are many ways to use technology to improve your inn’s operations. There are many options to make your life easier and run your inn more efficiently, from online booking systems to automated check-in.
13. Keep your website up to date.
Your website is often the first impression potential guests will have of your inn, so make sure it’s looking its best. Be sure to update your content, photos, and special offers regularly.
14. Make use of social media.
Social media is a powerful marketing tool that can help you reach a wider audience and promote your inn with minimal effort. Be sure to post regularly and interact with your followers to keep them engaged.
15. Use traditional marketing methods.
Don’t forget about more traditional marketing methods like print ads, direct mail, and even word-of-mouth. While social media is a great way to reach a larger audience, sometimes nothing beats good old-fashioned marketing.
16. Get involved in the community.
Being involved in the community is a great way to show your support and get your inn’s name out there. There are many ways to get involved, so find something that fits your time and interests.
17. Sponsor local events.
Sponsoring events is another great way to connect with the community and promote your inn at the same time. From parades to concerts, there are many opportunities to get involved.
18. Stay up to date on industry trends.
The hospitality industry is constantly changing, so it’s essential to stay updated on the latest trends. That will help you anticipate guests’ needs and keep your inn running smoothly.
Welcome More Guests
Running a traveler’s inn can be a lot of work, but everything can run smoothly and efficiently with the right plan in place. These tips will give you some ideas for improving your inn and making your guests feel welcome. Watch your roster of loyal guests grow as you implement these.
