How I Use Airbnb's Last-Minute Discount to Fill Orphan Nights in July
A Last-Minute Discount can turn slow weekdays into bookings, but only if you set it up right. One small change could mean the difference between an empty night and extra income. Here's how.
You know that quiet Tuesday dread? You know the one. The gaps on weekdays on your calendar.
I’ve hosted over 130 five-star stays, but last July? My occupancy tanked below 60% around the end of June. I freaked out. The overhead costs and bills, of course, don't stop coming.
So I tinkered with the Airbnb app. Tried "Smart Pricing." Slashed my rates, but the bookings didn't come in fast enough.
Then I noticed something: Guests weren’t ignoring me. They were just booking late.
I thought, that's not a problem - it's a pattern!
And for this specific customer behavior, the best type of custom offer is Airbnb's Last-Minute Discount.
Here's how I filled the gaps without going broke:
Step 1: High Price Anchor
Set your base price higher than usual. If your break-even is ₱1500, list at ₱2500. This sets a “luxury” anchor, so when you offer a deal, it feels like a steal. (Opps, can't help it, I love rhymes.)
Step 2: Clear the Deck
Before you set up a last-minute deal, turn off all other discounts: weekly, monthly, and all other discounts. This step matters. Why? You want to see if this one promo works. Airbnb says only one discount should apply, but sometimes the system stacks them by mistake, and you end up earning less than planned. With just one promo running, you’re in control and can track what’s working.
Step 3: Trigger the Last-Minute Deal
Set a 50% last-minute discount for bookings 1–3 days away. Why 50%? Because most hosts play it safe. Going bold makes you stand out in the list. Urgency equals attention.
Step 4: Keep It Tight
Run the promo for just 3 nights at a time. This is to protect you while you're testing. You’re learning what works without throwing away your margins.
Step 5: Adjust Based on Data
Getting booked, but the payout feels too low? Next time, try 40% or 30% off instead. The goal is simple: make the night worth it for you, whether that’s ₱1500 or whatever number makes sense on your end. These were nights that would’ve stayed empty if you hadn’t acted. Instead of zero, you’re making real income.
Next up: What to do when a guest cancels last minute (and how I turn it into a win).
Need help getting your spare condo listed? I offer 1-on-1 consults for new hosts who want to turn idle units into income. Let’s get that calendar working for you.
