Preparing Your Holiday Let for Business Travellers: The Ultimate Guide to More Bookings and Better Reviews

Business travellers are becoming a goldmine for holiday let owners who know how to cater to their needs. Unlike leisure guests, business travellers book frequently, stay longer, and are willing to pay premium rates for properties that help them work productively. Here's how to transform your holiday let into a business-friendly haven that attracts corporate bookings and earns five-star reviews.

The Business Traveller Mindset

Business travellers approach accommodation differently than leisure guests. They're focused on productivity, reliability, and convenience. A delayed video call due to poor WiFi or a sleepless night from street noise can directly impact their professional performance and client relationships. This creates an opportunity for property owners who get the fundamentals right.

Research consistently shows that business travellers prioritise location, reliable internet, and workspace functionality above luxury amenities. They'll pay more for a well-equipped property in the right location than a beautifully decorated one that doesn't meet their practical needs.

Essential Infrastructure: WiFi and Connectivity

High-speed internet isn't just important: it's absolutely critical. Business travellers rely on video conferencing, cloud-based applications, and large file uploads as part of their daily routine. A connection that works fine for Netflix streaming will often fail when handling multiple video calls simultaneously.

Install enterprise-grade broadband with upload speeds of at least 50Mbps. Provide both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks to accommodate different devices and usage patterns. Consider installing WiFi extenders to ensure strong signal coverage throughout the property, including outdoor spaces where guests might take calls.

Include backup connectivity options such as a secondary internet line or mobile hotspot devices. Business travellers often work with sensitive data and tight deadlines: they'll remember and recommend properties that kept them connected when their primary connection failed.

Creating the Perfect Workspace

The bedroom desk pushed against the wall doesn't cut it for today's business travellers. They need dedicated workspace that promotes productivity and professionalism during video calls.

Position the desk near a window for natural light, but ensure the background appears professional on camera. Include an adjustable desk chair that supports long working hours: your guests' backs will thank you in their reviews. Provide multiple power outlets and USB charging ports within arm's reach of the workspace.

Consider the acoustics of your workspace area. Hard surfaces create echo during calls, while soft furnishings and carpets help absorb sound. A small bookshelf or plants can create visual interest for video call backgrounds while improving acoustics.

Location and Accessibility

Location remains the most important factor for business bookings. Properties within 20 minutes of major business districts, conference centres, or transport hubs consistently achieve higher occupancy rates and command premium pricing.

However, don't overlook suburban locations if they offer specific advantages. Properties near business parks or industrial areas often serve travelling sales teams, consultants, or contractors who prefer quieter locations with easy parking and reasonable rates.

Provide detailed local information including transport links, nearby restaurants with meeting spaces, 24-hour services, and backup venues for impromptu client meetings. Business travellers often need to rearrange plans quickly, and properties that facilitate this flexibility earn loyalty.

Kitchen and Dining Facilities

Business travellers frequently work irregular hours and prefer the flexibility of preparing their own meals. A well-equipped kitchen saves them time and money while supporting their specific dietary requirements.

Stock the kitchen with quality basics: sharp knives, cutting boards, non-stick pans, and adequate plates and glasses for small business dinners. Include a coffee machine: preferably a quality bean-to-cup or pod system rather than instant coffee. Many business travellers start their day early and good coffee can make or break their morning routine.

Consider providing breakfast basics for early arrivals or late checkouts: cereals, bread, milk, and fresh fruit. This small gesture often generates positive reviews and encourages repeat bookings.

Laundry and Wardrobe Solutions

Business travellers need to maintain a professional appearance throughout their stay. In-unit washing and drying facilities are increasingly expected, particularly for stays longer than three days.

Provide adequate hanging space with quality hangers: wire hangers from dry cleaners don't cut it. Include an iron, ironing board, and steamer for last-minute touch-ups before important meetings. Consider providing a clothes airer for delicate items that can't go in the dryer.

If in-unit laundry isn't possible, provide clear information about nearby launderettes or same-day laundry services. Many business travellers will pay premium rates for properties that solve this practical challenge.

Technology Integration

Modern business travellers expect seamless technology integration throughout their stay. Smart TVs with casting capabilities allow guests to present directly from their devices during virtual meetings or unwind with their personal streaming accounts.

Provide multiple device charging solutions throughout the property. Bedside tables should include USB outlets, and common areas need charging stations for laptops, tablets, and phones simultaneously. Consider wireless charging pads on bedside tables and desk surfaces.

Install keyless entry systems that allow flexible check-in times and eliminate the key handover process. Many business travellers arrive outside traditional hours, and properties that accommodate this flexibility earn significant appreciation.

Quiet Zones and Privacy

Business travellers often need to take confidential calls or participate in sensitive meetings. Create quiet zones away from street noise and other guests. This might be a separate study, a secluded corner of the living area, or even a well-furnished outdoor space.

Install quality blackout curtains or blinds to support different sleep schedules. Business travellers crossing time zones need to control their light exposure to manage jet lag effectively. Heavy curtains also provide better sound insulation for early morning calls.

Consider soundproofing improvements if your property is in a busy area. Acoustic panels, heavy doors, and quality windows can significantly reduce noise transmission and improve guest satisfaction.

24/7 Support and Services

Business travellers work across time zones and often need assistance outside traditional hours. Provide 24/7 contact information and ensure responses within two hours maximum. Many booking decisions come down to the confidence that support will be available when needed.

Offer practical services that solve common business travel challenges: document printing, package receipt and storage, taxi booking, and restaurant reservations. Partner with local business centres to provide overflow meeting space or presentation facilities.

Create detailed property guides that anticipate common questions: WiFi passwords, appliance instructions, local transport, and emergency contacts. The goal is to minimise support requests while ensuring guests feel fully supported.

Flexible Policies for Business Success

Business travel plans change frequently due to meeting reschedules, flight delays, and project demands. Properties with flexible cancellation and modification policies attract more business bookings, even at higher rates.

Offer early check-in and late check-out options when possible. Many business travellers have connecting flights or need to attend early morning meetings. Properties that accommodate these needs without excessive fees build strong repeat business.

Consider offering extended stay discounts for bookings over a week. Many business projects require longer-term accommodation, and competitive weekly or monthly rates can secure valuable long-term bookings.

Measuring Success and Continuous Improvement

Monitor your booking patterns and guest feedback to identify improvement opportunities. Business travellers provide detailed reviews that highlight both successes and shortcomings. Pay particular attention to comments about WiFi reliability, workspace comfort, and location convenience.

Track your repeat booking rate: this metric indicates whether you're successfully meeting business traveller needs. Properties that achieve over 40% repeat bookings from business guests typically command premium pricing and maintain high occupancy rates.

The business travel market rewards property owners who understand and cater to professional needs. By focusing on reliable infrastructure, functional workspace, and flexible service, you'll transform your holiday let into a business traveller's preferred choice. The investment in these improvements typically pays for itself within the first year through higher occupancy rates, premium pricing, and valuable repeat business.

At Hugh Champneys Ltd, we've helped numerous property owners tap into this lucrative market segment. The key is understanding that business travellers aren't just guests: they're professionals who need your property to support their success. Get this right, and you'll build a sustainable, profitable business that stands out in an increasingly competitive market.