Will cancelling an Airbnb instant book block the dates?
Cancelling an Airbnb instant book can have various implications on the availability of dates for the listing. The instant book feature is designed to provide guests with the convenience of booking a property without the need for approval from the host. However, understanding the consequences of cancelling an instant book listing is crucial for hosts to avoid any potential issues with their bookings and reputation on the platform.
When a host cancels an Airbnb instant book listing, the dates that were previously blocked for booking are released. This means that guests can now book those dates, which may or may not affect the host’s availability. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether cancelling an Airbnb instant book will block the dates:
1. Timeframe of the cancellation: If the cancellation is made well in advance of the booking dates, the impact on the availability of dates may be minimal. Guests might still have enough time to book the property for those dates, reducing the likelihood of the dates being blocked.
2. Seasonality and demand: Properties in high-demand areas or during peak seasons may see a faster turnaround in bookings. If the cancellation occurs during a period of high demand, the dates may be quickly snapped up by other guests, leaving them blocked for a shorter duration.
3. Communication with guests: Keeping guests informed about the cancellation is essential. By providing clear communication, hosts can minimize the chances of guests booking the cancelled dates. It’s advisable to reach out to any guests who have already booked for those dates and offer them alternative options or a full refund.
4. Airbnb’s cancellation policy: Airbnb has specific cancellation policies that vary depending on the host’s settings and the guest’s booking window. In some cases, the cancellation policy may not allow the host to cancel the instant book listing, or it may require a certain notice period. It’s crucial to review these policies to understand the implications of cancelling an instant book.
5. Listing’s availability settings: Some hosts may have additional availability settings that can help manage the impact of cancelling an instant book. For instance, hosts can set up a buffer period or a grace period before and after the cancelled dates to ensure that the dates remain blocked for a specific duration.
In conclusion, cancelling an Airbnb instant book may or may not block the dates, depending on various factors such as the timeframe of the cancellation, seasonality, guest communication, Airbnb’s cancellation policy, and the host’s availability settings. It’s essential for hosts to weigh these factors carefully and plan accordingly to minimize any negative impact on their bookings and reputation on the platform.
