How to sync airbnb and vrbo calendars?

Introduction

Syncing calendars between Airbnb and VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) is a crucial task for hosts who list their properties on both platforms. It ensures that bookings and availability are accurately reflected across both websites, preventing double bookings and saving time on manual updates. In this article, we will explore the various methods and tools available to sync Airbnb and VRBO calendars seamlessly.

Using iCal

iCal is a widely used calendar format that allows you to export and import calendar data between different platforms. Both Airbnb and VRBO support iCal, making it a convenient option for syncing calendars. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Log in to your Airbnb account and navigate to the calendar section.
2. Click on the “Availability settings” tab.
3. Scroll down to the “Sync calendars” section and click on “Export Calendar.”
4. Copy the iCal link provided by Airbnb.

Now, let’s move on to syncing the calendar on VRBO:

1. Log in to your VRBO account and go to the calendar section.
2. Click on the “Import/Export” tab.
3. Under the “Import” section, click on “Import Calendar.”
4. Paste the iCal link copied from Airbnb and click on “Import Calendar.”

By following these steps, your Airbnb and VRBO calendars will be synced, and any changes made on one platform will be reflected on the other.

Using Channel Managers

While iCal is a simple solution, it may not be ideal for hosts managing multiple properties or those who want more advanced features. In such cases, using a channel manager can greatly simplify the syncing process. Channel managers are third-party tools that integrate with both Airbnb and VRBO, allowing you to manage multiple listings across different platforms from a single dashboard.

Here are a few popular channel managers that support Airbnb and VRBO:

1. Hostaway: Hostaway offers a comprehensive channel management solution with features like automated messaging, pricing optimization, and multi-calendar synchronization.
2. MyVR: MyVR provides a unified dashboard to manage bookings, calendars, and inquiries from multiple platforms, including Airbnb and VRBO.
3. Rentals United: Rentals United offers a powerful channel manager with real-time synchronization, advanced pricing tools, and access to over 60 vacation rental platforms.

By using a channel manager, hosts can streamline their operations, avoid manual errors, and ensure that their calendars are always up to date across Airbnb and VRBO.

Considerations and Best Practices

While syncing calendars between Airbnb and VRBO is relatively straightforward, there are a few considerations and best practices to keep in mind:

1. Sync frequency: Depending on the platform and channel manager used, calendar syncing can occur in real-time or at regular intervals. It’s important to understand the sync frequency to avoid any discrepancies.
2. Blocked dates: Calendar synchronization typically includes blocked dates, but it’s essential to double-check that blocked dates are accurately reflected on both platforms.
3. Manual adjustments: In some cases, manual adjustments may be required to avoid conflicts, especially when dealing with last-minute bookings or overlapping reservations. Always review and adjust the synced calendars if needed.

Conclusion

Syncing calendars between Airbnb and VRBO is crucial for hosts managing properties on both platforms. Whether you choose to use iCal or a channel manager, ensuring that your calendars are synchronized can save time, prevent double bookings, and provide a seamless experience for guests. Consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding which method to use, and always double-check the synced calendars to avoid any discrepancies.