Turn Experiences into Revenue with Upsells | Data from 4,000+ STR Operators

In today's competitive vacation rental market, simply offering a place to stay isn't enough. Travelers crave unique and personalized experiences, and you, as a hospitality professional, need to follow this trend to beat the competition and monetize these opportunities.

We’ve researched 4,394 short-term rental operators online to see how they are incorporating upsells in their businesses. Here’s what we’ve learned:

1???Only 17.6% STR Operators Offer Upsells

??Takeaway: With 82.4% of operators?not?offering upsells, there’s a clear opportunity to?stand out and boost revenue.

Are you part of the 17.6%?

2???Europe Leads in Experiential Upsells

• Europe dominates due to high density of vacation rental markets in Portugal, Spain & France.
• North America follows, with strong representation in Florida, California, and Hawaii.

?? Takeaway: While Europe sets the standard, regions like Asia and Latin America have?untapped potential?to leverage upsells.

3???Growth-Stage Companies Win with Upsells

Growth-stage STR companies (30–99 listings) lead in upsells, while very small and enterprise-level firms lag behind.

??Takeaway: Companies managing 30–250 listings see the biggest upsell benefits - high enough volume for revenue impact, yet flexible enough to keep operations under control.

4???Transportation & Local Activities: The Most Offered Upsells

(What successful STRs are selling - and where you’re missing out)

?? Takeaway: While transportation and local experiences are the most popular,?wellness,?private chefs?and event packages can drive the high margins, as they are the most expensive add-ons.

5???Regional Upsell Revenue Hotspots

(Where to double down)

???Europe

• Top Upsell: Cultural Tours - 65% adoption.
• Underused Gem: Eco-Transport (e-bikes, solar boats) – only 12% offer, growing demand.

???North America

• Top Upsell: Family Bundles (golf carts, beach gear) - 40% adoption.
• Underused Gem: Pet-Friendly Stays - 18% offer, growing demand.

???Asia/Middle East

• Top Upsell: Luxury Transport (helicopters, yachts) – 50% premiums.
• Underused Gem: Cultural Workshops (pottery, cooking) – 5% adoption, growing demand.

???Latin America

• Top Upsell: Adventure Packages (ATV tours) - 55% adoption.

?? Takeaway: Tailor upsells to regional demand - cultural tours and eco-transport in Europe, family bundles and pet-friendly stays in North America, luxury experiences in Asia/Middle East, and adventure packages in Latin America.

Final thoughts

???80% of vacation rental companies are missing out on upsells - the opportunity to stand out while increasing revenue and guest satisfaction.

???While Europe leads in upsell adoption through cultural experiences, every region has unique attractions waiting to be unlocked. What’s yours?

???48% of travelers plan trips around experiences - food, culture, and nature. Outside of Europe, most vacation rental operators are missing this massive opportunity.

???Managing 30+ properties? You’re in the prime position to capitalize on upsells. Big enough to see the significant revenue impact, small enough to move fast.

?? Ready to Act?

• Calculate Your Upsell Potential
• Monetize Your Local Experiences Effortlessly

???Share in the comments: Which upsell are you implementing in 2025?

Methodology: Based on analysis of randomly chosen 4,394 vacation rental companies worldwide, January-December 2024.

Note: Early check-in, late checkout, and mid-stay cleaning - operational upsells - were excluded to avoid skewing results.

?? Liked this? Hit “Subscribe” for monthly STR revenue and guest experience insights!